HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 375 ber when he first settled there, an entirely different piece of property from that which his successor found, for Mr. Baker had not only brought the fields to a high state of cultivation, but had also erected some fine buildings. In 1902 he bought from Mrs. Shields the farm that is known as the old Simmons place. On it he made his home until his death, and on it his Widow and sons still live. It, also, has profited by the Bakers' residence, for the buildings have been remodeled, and a more scientific and up-to-date system of agriculture has been carried on that has increased its productiveness and enabled it to produce a better quality of crops. Mr. Baker was released from the cares of this world September 19, 1907, but his wife still survives at the age of fifty-six. She was eighteen when she came to this country with her brother, William Miller, and in the years of her married life became the mother of six children : George, of this review is the eldest. August was born January 17, 1876. Lena died at one year of age. John died at the age of six months. Albert married Lena Lovell, an adopted daughter of Mrs. Martha Lovell of this township, and they have three children : Jeannette, Elizabeth and Raymond, and live in Greenfield township. Bertha, the youngest of the family, married Peter Zieher and lives at Sandusky, Ohio. They have one son, Bernhart George. George W. Baker has always lived in this county, receiving his training to meet the problems of life at home and in the district schools. For a few terms he was a pupil in the German school of Peru township, so that his education is better than that which falls to the lot of many boys reared on a farm and compelled to get their lesson at odd moments when work did not claim their time and in the few months during which the school held session. He has been successful in the farming he has conducted on his land, but has not specialized in any particular branch. On the 26th of October, 1901, Mr. Baker was united in marriage to Miss Merrill Perry, a daughter of Fred and Mary (Gates) Perry, of Penn township, who were among the early settlers of that locality, and have many stories to tell of the changes that have taken place since they first took up their residence there. Mr. and Mrs. Baker have an adopted daughter, Loretia Meyers, a little girl of six years of age. August Baker, who assists his brother in the conduct of the farm, was married in 1904 to Miss AnnaChrist, of Erie county. They have a son George, a stalwart little child in whom many hopes are placed. The Baker family are members of the Lutheran church of Pontiac, which George P. Baker helped to build and in which he always held office. The sons are still active in its affairs and in the general tenor of their lives give evidence of its teachings. JOHN DRURY John Drury, a farmer of Lyme township, Huron county, owning seventy-five acres of land near Bellevue, upon which he lives, was born on this farm, March 7, 1847. The Drury family originally came from England in 1632, settling in one of the New England states. Our subject's great-grandfather bore the name 376 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY of Jonathan Drury, while his grandfather was John Drury, who was born in Masi sachusetts and became the, father of ten children, two sons and eight daughters. Our subject's father, Jonathan Maynard Drury, was born in Worthington, Massachusetts, February 24, 1809. In the course of time he married Miss Abigail a Maynard Knowlton, daughter of Benjamin Knowlton, of New Fane, Vermont, where Miss Abigail was horn June 29, 1812. In 1837, the year subsequent to his marriage, Jonathan Drury came to Huron county, Ohio, on a prospecting tour. The following season he moved his family to Lyme township, this county, settling upon a small rented farm. For several years he worked for the diffierent farmers until, in 1842, he was able to buy a tract of sixty-four acres of land, to which he added until he had a tract of one hundred and ten acres, upon a part of which his son lives at the present day. A log cabin was his first habitation and served him until 1857, when he put up a fine brick residence, only one of the many extensive improvements he made on the place. Jonathan Drury was a life-long member of the Lyme Congregational church, of which he was a deacon for over fifty years, and when death called him, August 13, 1897, the community felt they had lost an esteemed member. By his first marriage there were three children born: Ellen M., who died at the age of seventeen ; Caroline T., who was hut six at the time of her death; and John, the subject of this sketch. After the death of 4 his first wife which occurred May 8, 1847, Mr. Drury married Mrs. Clarissa Barnard Wrisley, by whom he had one son Miron Maynard, who' was born on the home farm, June 19, 1853. He married Miss Ida Osborn and is a prominent business man of Chicago, Illinois, making his home in Evanston. Four children have been born to him: Walter M., Louise, Burton E. and Allen B. By her former marriage Mrs. Clarissa Drury had two sons: George- A., now deceased, and Allen B., both prominent soap manufacturers of Chicago, where they started in business in 1861. John Drury has lived all the years of his life on the old home farm, which he inherited from his father. His education was acquired at the public and high schools of Bellevue. Upon completing his own schooling he taught for two winters in York township, Sandusky county, while during the summer seasons he followed the life of a farmer, as he had from the days of his childhood. In the quiet pursuit of his vocation his days have been passed. He fell heir to his father's property, as he had followed in his footsteps and not only in the matter of business but also as regards functions bestowed by the good will of his fellows, for upon his father's death he was made deacon of the church. Of its Sunday school he has been superintendent for fifteen years and for a period of over thirty years has been clerk of the congregation. Mr. Drury was twice married, the first time to Miss Ida Mary Cowle, a daughter of John and Anna (Ford) Cowle, of Bellevue, whom he married February 8, 1871. There was one daughter, Edith Ellen, born to this Union, but she died in infancy, being born May 27, 1873, and dying the 16th of August following. Mrs. Drury, who was born September 12, 1846, died February 4, 1887, and on the 8th of May, 1889, Mr. Drury married Mrs. Josephine (Wright) Nims, a daughter of John and Betsy (Ford) Wright. John Wright was the founder of the Wright Banking Company, of Bellevue, and it president until his death, and at one time he owned three thousand acres of land in this section of the state. Mrs. HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 377 Josephine (Wright) Drury was born April 16, 1848, in Groton township, Erie county, Ohio, and by her former marriage had one child, Walter Worthington Nims, who lives at Strongs Ridge, Lyme township. He married Miss Mamie L. Newton and has one child, born January I, 1909. His long residence and connection with affairs in this county has made Mr. Drury well known in this locality. Looking back over his past life, which has been filled with earnest endeavor, no greater praise can be given than by saying he is a worthy son of an esteemed father. ROBERT ARTHUR. Robert Arthur, who has the distinction of being the largest landowner of Huron county, Ohio, resides upon a farm of thirteen hundred acres in Greenfield township, to the cultivation of which he is directing his entire energies. He was born in this township on the 4th of March, 1829, in an old log house situated about three-quarters of a mile from his present home, and is a son of John and Martha (Easter) Arthur. The father was born near Londonderry, Ireland, in 1797, and in 1822 he brought his wife and one child to the United States, purchasing a small farm in Greenfield township, Huron county. Upon the land stood a log house in which they began their housekeeping, while Mr. Arthur at once commenced clearing the land for the purpose of cultivation. Soon he had improved the entire tract and was so prosperous in his undertaking that as the years went by he was able to add to his original holdings and at the time of his death he was the owner of an excellent farm of three hundred acres. He was a member of the Congregational church of Steuben and assisted in building that church, in which he was an office-holder up to the time of his death. He was a man of fine principles who was respected and esteemed throughout the community in which he resided. He passed away in 1890, while his wife, who was also born in Ireland, was eighty-four years of age at the time of her death. In their family were six children, namely : Margaret, who was born in Ireland and is the deceased wife of Alexander Lewis, who has also passed away ; Anna J., who married James McPherson and resides at Steuben, Ohio, being the oldest resident of that town, a sketch of whom is found elsewhere in this volume ; Mary, who married Thomas Irving, both of whom are now deceased ; William, who passed away at the age of seventy years ; Robert, of this review ; and Kathryn, also deceased. All were born in this township with the exception of the eldest, whose birth occurred before the parents left Ireland. Amid the wholesome scenes and environments of agricultural life Robert Arthur was reared to 'manhood, and during the intervening years he attended the district schools in the acquirement of a good education that fitted him for the responsible and practical duties of life. Under the direction of his father he also learned valuable lessons concerning the best methods of cultivating the fields, and in the broader school of experience received thorough and comprehensive training. He has devoted his entire life to general farming, in which he has been eminently successful, and by indefatigable energy, untiring diligence and intelli- 378 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY gently applied labor he has been able to add, from time to time, to his property holdings until today he is the most extensive landowner in Huron county, having in his possession about thirteen hundred acres of fine farming land. On the 27th of February, 1867, Mr. Arthur was united in marriage to Miss Julia Cook, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wyet Cook, residents of Peru township. In that township she was born in 1843 and on the loth of April, 1901, was called to her final rest, her death being the cause of deep regret to a large number of warm friends. Beside her husband she left to mourn her loss five children, namely : Mattie, who still resides at home; Clarence, who married Inez Hill, by whom he has two children, Margaret and Francis, and who resides upon and operates the home farm ; J. V., who married Irene Otes and with his wife and three children, Aubrey, John M. and Annetta, resides near Steuben, Ohio; Laura, the wife of James Trimmer of Fairfield township, by whom she has six children, Helen, Arthur, Marian, Julia, Jeanette and Charles, the family residence being at North Fairfield, Ohio; and Fred, residing at Steuben, who married Alice Barre and has two children, Robert and Malcolm. Mr. Arthur's religious faith is indicated in his membership in the Congregational church of Steuben, in which he has been a trustee for a great number of years. He gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and has served in several township offices on that ticket, being trustee of the township for four terms and a school director for a long period. He has already passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, having reached the eightieth milestone on life's journey, while his entire career has been passed within the borders of Huron county, where his fellow citizens know him as a straightforward and reliable man and an enterprising farmer, who well deserves the esteem and high regard that is uniformly accorded him.. WILLIAM GAMBLE. William Gamble, who is now living retired in a comfortable home in Steuben, Huron county, was for many years closely identified with the agricultural interests o f Greenfield township, where he owned farming property. Mr. Gamble was born in Lincolnshire, England, October 15, 1842, and was but six months old when brought by his parents, Thomas and Mary (Rick) Gamble, to the United States. The father was born December 21, 1806, and at an early day came to the new world, establishing his home in New York, where he remained about fifteen months. He then continued his journey westward, and with his family settled in Monroeville, Huron county, where for a time he was in the employ of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company. Believing, however, that farm life would prove more congenial, he began in a small way by purchasing ten acres of land in Fairfield township. He then took up his abode on this place and made it his home until his wife died, when he disposed of his farming interests and removed to Illinois, making his home with a daughter during the succeeding eight years. He once more returned to Huron county and entered the employ of Barnett Roe in a mill. Later he in partnership with his son purchased sixty-six acres of land in HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 379 Greenfield township and for thirty-one years was actively identified with agricultural pursuits, his death occurring April 8, 1895, when he had reached the extreme old age of eighty-eight years, and his remains lie buried in the cemetery at Steuben. As above stated, his wife bore the maiden name of Mary Rick, and they became the parents of two sons and a daughter : William, of this review ; Joseph, who left home about forty-five years ago, since which time he has not been heard from; and Mary Ann, who makes her home in Minnesota. The wife and mother lived but a Iv years after coming to the United States, her death occurring in 1849, her remains being interred at Olena, in Bronson township, Huron county. William Gamble accompanied his parents on their various removals after coming to this country but he was mainly reared in Huron county, where he also acquired his education, which, however, was somewhat limited, owing to the primitive condition of the newly settled district. After reaching mature years he and his father purchased sixty-six acres of land in Greenfield township, which they cultivated for thirty-one years. Eventually Mr. Gamble added a tract of sixty-six acres to the original purchase and made all the improvements upon the place. He erected a house and barn but the latter was destroyed by fire but was soon replaced by another. Throughout a long period he was closely identified with farming interests but in 1903 he disposed of his farm property to Mrs. Samuel Wagner and purchased a nice home in Steuben, where he has since made his home. He has here four and a half acres of ground, which is kept in good condition and today he is numbered among the worthy retired citizens of this village. Mr. Gamble was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Bennett, a daughter of Allen and Harriett (Youngs) Bennett, the ceremony being performed on the 9th of February, 1864. Mrs. Gamble was born in New Haven township, Huron county, her paternal grandfather, James Youngs, having been a pioneer settler of that district. Her father was born in the Empire state in 1823 and departed this life in 1859, when but thirty-six years of age. The mother was born in Auburn township, Richland county, Ohio, in 1827, and was married in Greenfield township to Mr. Youngs. Her death occurred in 1857, when she was but thirty years old. Their family numbered two sons and two daughters, namely : Elizabeth, now Mrs. Gamble ; James, a resident of Illinois ; Charles, of Indiana ; and Mary, who died at the age of nine years. Mrs. Gamble was but nine years of age at the time of her parents' death, and she was then taken into the home of her grandfather,. James Youngs, by whom she was carefully reared and educated. She made her home with her grandfather until the time of her marriage. She has become the mother of five children, as follows : Lillian, the wife of Charles Earl, of Fairfield township, by whom she has one child, Fannie ; Helen, who is the wife of Fred Sparks, of Peru township, and the mother of three children, Maud, Walter and Stamford ; William Thomas, who wedded Ella Brant, of Chicago, Ohio, by whom he has had three children, Lawrence, Dale and Wilma, but the latter is now deceased ; Jay, who wedded Ethel Brant, their home being in Norwalk, Ohio ; and Mary, who died at the age of eleven months. Mr. Gamble is independent in his political views and affiliations and for the past ten years has served as township trustee. He has also held other public offices, having been elected on both the republican and democratic tickets. He has now 380 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY passed the sixty-seventh milestone on life's journey and the greater part of this period has been passed in Huron county, so that few men have more intimate knowledge of its history or of events which have left their impress upon its annals. He has spent a busy, active and useful life and he and his estimable wife are now enjoying in retirement the accumulations of profitable, successful and honorable careers. CLARENCE E. STOTTS. One of the native sons of Ripley township, successful in his agricultural purl suits and prominent in local business circles is Clarence E. Stotts, who lives upon the old homestead and enjoys the home which for so many years was the residence of his father. He was born November 3, 1863, and is a son of Abram and Mariette (Boughton) Stotts. The father, born. December 5, 1822, in Belmont county, Ohio, was the son of John and Eva (Winter) Stotts, the latter a native of Virginia, and was the eldest of nine children: Abram, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Martin K., Catherine, George, Daniel and Elizabeth. He was the first born and he was the last to die. The eighty-six years of his life, his death occurring July 21, 19̊9, were crowded with activities of the highest order and of profit to others. A man whose advantages in his youth had been limited, the success of his life in farming and in the business world was due entirely to his own efforts. The Huron County Insurance Company was organized in his house, that in which Clarence E. Stotts lives today, and he was elected its first president. He was also a director of the First National Bank at Greenwich for a period of two years. The people of Ripley township frequently called upon him to fill the various offices which were at their disposal and twice, in 1875 and in 1878, he was elected on the republican ticket to fill the post of commissioner for Huron county. In the Baptist church at North Fairfield he was also prominent, and he administered the duties of trustee and deacon with wisdom and decorum. In short he was a man who made a place for himself in the fore ranks despite the fact that he was handicapped in the struggle for life by limited early training. His wife, who before her marriage was Miss Mariette Boughton, was born in Allegany county, New York, June 12, 1831, and was the daughter of John and Susan (Benedict) Boughton, who came to Ohio in 1835 and took up the work of the early pioneers. She was one of ten children, the others being Solon, Orlando, Cordier, Lucius, Elon, Theodore, Oscar, Sanford and Silicia. Mr. and Mrs. Abram Stotts were the parents of four children. Flora A. married John W. Hopkins. and they have one son, Fred A. Eunice Adell married T. A. Hilton, and they have two children, Flora E. and Alfred W. Clarence E., the third of the family, is the subject of this sketch. Elmer A. married Miss Mildred Kaylor and they have one daughter, Blanche. Mrs. Stotts preceded her husband to the grave by some nine years, her death having occurred May 31, 1901. Clarence E. Stotts has followed farming as his vocation through nearly all of his life and is accounted a successful agriculturist. He has found wide play for the exercise of his large business ability as well, for he has been one of the direc- HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 381 tors of the First National Bank at Greenwich ever since its organization and has assisted in maintaining that institution upon its sound financial basis. In politics he has ever espoused the cause of the republican party, though he has never been active in its ranks nor a seeker of official recognition. He has, nevertheless, served the people of this township very efficiently as a justice of the peace and for seven years as a member of the school board and was ever found to administer his duties in accordance with what he believed to be right. On the 19th of September, 1889, Mr. Stotts was married to Miss Mabel Loveland, who was born June 4, 1870, in New Haven township, this county, and is the only daughter of Rockwell and Roxana (Knight) Loveland. The father, who was born in New Haven township, June 9, 1838, was the son of John Loveland, who was one of the pioneers of Huron county, having come here in 1822, when he was twenty-four years of age, settling in New Haven township. His wife was Miss Calista Curtiss before her marriage. Rockwell Loveland, besides participating in the work of the pioneers, which was not completed when he became old enough to assist, fought valiantly for three years for the preservation of the Union during the Civil war. He was in the navy on the Mississippi flagship Black Hawk and was in the Red River expedition, serving under General Farragut. Mrs. Stotts' mother, who was Miss Roxana Knight before her marriage, was the daughter of William and Jane (Johnson) Knight, the former a native of Boston, Massachusetts, the latter of Connecticut. To Mr. and Mrs. Stotts three children have been born : Harold, born August 18, 1891; Alta B., born April 19, 1894; and Hazel Mae, born October 25, 1908. The children are all at home, and in the Baptist faith, which the father and mother have professed, they have been reared. A man who has been fortunate in his own affairs and has been found trustworthy in his relations to others, Mr. Stotts enjoys the respect of all who know him and the strong friendship of his Masonic brothers in particular. SANFORD H. KING. Sanford H. King is a retired farmer who, having passed the seventy-second milestone on life's journey, is now living retired in the enjoyment of rest which he has truly earned and richly deserves. He is living in North Fairfield and has spent almost his entire life in Huron county. He is a native of New York, his birth having occurred in the Empire state on the 13th of May, 1837. His parents were Elias and Catherine (Mott) King, whose family numbered but three children, the others being Barzilla and Mary. It was in the year 1838 that the parents left the east and came with their family to Ohio, establishing their home in Huron county. Sanford H. King was only about a year old at the time and, therefore, for even more than the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten he has lived in this part of the state, witnessing its growth and development as the years have gone by. He has lived to see notable changes for the native forests have been cut away, the land cultivated and now the pioneer district is a region of val- 382 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY uable farms in the midst of which are found flourishing towns and cities with their industrial and commercial interests. In his youthful days Mr. King assisted in the labors of the home farm and experience taught him the value of industry and perseverance. His educational training was received in the public schools which he attended through the winter seasons. As he attained his majority he resolved to follow as a life work the occupation to which he had been reared and took up the task of farming on his own account. Year by year he carefully and diligently cultivated the crops best adapted to the soil and climate and as time passed won success in his labors. He is still the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Fairfield township, from which he derives a substantial income, although he is now living retired, leaving the work of the farm to others. On the 1st of March, 1860, Mr. King was united in marriage to Miss Julia McKelvey, who was born in Ohio May 4, 1835, and is a daughter of Robert and Mary (Prosser) McKelvey. They have a large family of children: Julia, Catherine, Betsy, Almira, Harriet, Lyman, Perry, George, Angeline, Roena, Mack and Lily. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. King was blessed with four children; Eugene, born in 186̊ ; Jennie, born in 1865 ; Fred, born in 1869 ; and Ernest, who was born in 1876 and was killed by the cars in. December, 1897. Fred married Della Barre and they have one child, Lloyd. The parents are members of the Baptist church, to the support of which they make liberal contribution. Mr, King is a republican in politics and is thoroughly conversant with the leading questions and issues of the day. He has served as a trustee but has not been active as a political worker or an office seeker. His fraternal relations are with the Masons and in his life he exemplifies the benevolent spirit of the craft which is based upon mutual helpfulness and brotherly kindness. His long residence in the county has made him well known here and his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and progressive present. Upon his memory are impressed many scenes and events of the early day which marked the progress of the community and indicated what was the condition that existed through the days of his boyhood in this part of the state. MARTHA M. LOVELL. One of the persons, who despite her many years, still retains a deep interest in the affairs of Greenfield township, is Mrs. Martha A. Lovell, who owns two hundred and seventeen acres of land, on which she lives, part of it being the farm on which her husband was born. Her birth occurred in Paris, now Plymouth, Ohio, on the 31st of March, 1831, her parents being Matthew and Nancy (Adams) McKelvey. The former came to Huron county with his father and an older brother and settled in Greenfield township on the farm where Robert Arthur now lives. The land was then heavily timbered, which three men had to clear before they could put up the log house which was their home while they lived there. After some years, they removed to Plymouth, where the elder McKelvey died, 383 - BLANK 384 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. ETHAN C. LOVELL 385 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. MATTHEW MCKELVEY 386 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 387 closing a career that had experienced many hardships and privations, for he had been a soldier of the Revolutionary war and had lost one of his limbs in battle. Matthew McKelvey was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, January 3o, 1794, and was but little more than twenty years of age when on the 27th of March, 1818, he was united in wedlock to Miss Nancy Adams. She was two and a half years his junior and was born in Marlboro, Vermont. Mr. McKelvey passed the greater part of his life in this county and was one of the pioneer dry-good merchants of Plymouth. Later he removed to Harding county, Ohio, where his wife and three of his daughters died, and then returned to Plymouth. There he passed away on the 18th of March, 1853, ten years and three months after his helpmate had gone to her final resting-place. Mr. and Mrs. McKelvey were the parents of ten children; Elizabeth, who was born February 12, 1819, and died 1834; Marion and Mary, twins, horn January 9, 1821, the former dying June 25, 1823, the latter July 23, 1842 ; Sarah, who was born May 5, 1823, and died July 23, 1841 ; Nancy, who was born November 8, 1824, and died July 19, 1841 ; George, who was born June 28, 1826, and died September 18, 1827 ; Jane, who was born June 9, and died July 21, 1841 ; Martha M., now Mrs. Lovell ; Matho, born February 25, 1832, now a resident of Tiffin, Ohio ; and John, born February 8, 1835, who lives at Sandusky, Ohio, and is a member of the Firelands Historical Society. Mrs. Lovell attended the public schools of Plymouth until she was 17 and for one year continued her studies at Fairfield. She then entered upon the career of a teacher, which she followed until she was married, on the 3oth of December, 1854, to Ethan C. Lovell, a son of David and Mary (Chilcoot) Lovell. His father came here in the early days of the county and took up fifty acres of land which is included in the farm Mrs. Lovell now owns. At the time of his arrival the land was covered with heavy timber which he had to clear away before he could build the little log house, which was the first home of his family. Later he was able to build a fine brick residence, for he prospered in his affairs. Ethan C. Lovell was born June 17, 1819, grew up at home on the farm, and in turn, became a prominent farmer and stock raiser. He was noted for his honesty and carefulness, and it it recorded of him that he kept a regular set of books, in which were entered the transactions of each day. In 1858, he built the large frame house in which his widow still lives and which he was per-, milled to enjoy for forty years. A hard worker and thrifty, he made a secure position for himself in the hearts of the people of the township, who mourned his loss deeply when death called him on the 27th of April, 1898. Not blessed with any children of her own, Mrs. Lovell has given the privileges of a home and maternal care to two girls, one of whom remained with her from the time she was six years of age until she married George Mannard, when she went to live in Virginia. Lena Clark, the other girl, was twelve years of age when she came to live with Mrs. Lovell, with whom she made her home until she married Albert Baker, of this township. Mrs. Lovell is a very well preserved woman, who is old only in years and not in spirit, looks or actions. Her life has always been one of activity and when her husband was living she would cook all the meals for the farm hands. She also tells with a touch of pardonable pride that she did some of the painting on 388 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY the frame house in which she now lives. From her mother, who was the first teacher in Peru township, she inherits her love of books and reading, and in the years that have passed since she presided over a roomful of pupils, she has not forgotten her interest in education or in the affairs of the world generally. PHILANDER J. RIDDLE. Philander J. Riddle, one of the representative farmers of Richmond township and ,a man who has made his influence felt in both political and church circles, is the owner of one hundred and ten acres of fertile farm land in this township. He was born in Richland county, Ohio, January t, 1854, his parents being John and Amanda (Thornton) Riddle. The father was engaged all his life in agricultural pursuits and at the same time during earlier years he taught school, for eighteen years in the district schools and two years in the graded school at Bellville, Ohio, gaining an enviable reputation as a local educator. During the summer, when released from his school duties, he carried on farming, thus combining the two occupations very profitably. In 1865 the family came to Huron county, and this continued to be the home of the parents for the remainder of their lives, the father passing away in 189o, and his widow in 1893. They were the parents of the following children : Lydia, who married John Miller, of Chicago Junction; Archibald, who is deceased; Sybal, who married W. F. Miller; Philander J., who is mentioned below ; John Jr. ; Lunetta, who married George Hatch; and William, the youngest. Philander J. Riddle spent his boyhood as do so many sons of farmers, except that he had the advantage of belonging to a family where educational matters were considered of great importance, and he therefore secured an excellent school training, first in the district schools of Knox county until he was twelve years old, and after that in Huron county, thus continuing until he attained his majority, and at the same time he assisted his father on the farm in the summer. The first land owned by Mr. Riddle was located in Richland county and consisted of a hundred-acre farm he and his brother John bought and operated in partnership for five years. Following this venture, Mr. Riddle rented his present farm from his father-in-law and when the latter died he bought it. The Richland county farm was traded for Chicago, Ohio, property. During the time he has been the owner of his Richmond township farm, Mr. Riddle has devoted himself to improving it, and has brought it into a state that makes good crops almost a certainty, so that he can depend upon an excellent income from his investment of money, time and labor. On September 1, 1881, Mr. Riddle married Elmyra Snyder, a daughter of Hiram and Amelia Snyder, who came from the eastern part of Ohio to Huron county, being early settlers of this locality. They were the parents of the following children: Simon ; Myria who married William Cheseman ; Jennie; Douglas; Elmyra, who became Mrs. Riddle; Ira ; and Amanda, who married John Boger, Mr. and Mrs. Riddle have had but one child of their own, Walter, but they have adopted Ray White from an orphan asylum and propose to give him the same ad- 389 - PHOTO OF OZIAS JOINER 390 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 391 vantages enjoyed by their son. This one act sheds a light upon the truly Christian characters of these two and demonstrates that they believe in living out in their lives the teachings of their church. Walter Riddle married Cora Harmon, and their children are: May, Vernice, Harold, Lois and Dalton. Both Mr. Riddle and his wife are consistent members of the United Brethren church and are highly esteemed by their fellow members. When the present church was built he served on the building committee, while he is now church treasurer and a member of the board of parsonage trustees. For a number of years Mr. Riddle has been prominent in the republican party in this locality and is now serving as township treasurer with that same fidelity to obligations placed upon him that has resulted in his material advancement, and his winning and retaining the friendship of his neighbors and church associates. EMMONS W. ROSS. Emmons W. Ross is descended from men who braved the terrors, dangers and hardships of the unknown forests and hewed out not only a home for themselves but cleared land and prepared fields from which those generations that came after them would reap the gain. He is a farmer in the vicinity of Boughtonville, Ripley township, and owns the one hundred and forty-two acres on which he lives. He was born in Auburn, Auburn township, Crawford county, Ohio, September 13, 1861, and is the son of Royal R. and Mary (Aumend) Ross. The father, who was the son of Abel and Amelia (Emmons) Ross, was born in 1832 in New York, while the mother, who was a daughter of Adam Aumend, was born in Crawford county in 1840, for her parents' were among the pioneers there. Through their marriage Royal R. Ross and his wife became the parents of five children: Fred, William, one who died in infancy, Howard and Emmons. Emmons W. Ross has always been a farmer since his childhood's days, for as soon as lie was able he did his share in the work that was carried on at home, and as he became older participated in the heavier labor of the fields. He experienced the same difficulty in obtaining an education that confronts the farmer's boys even today, but which were as nothing in comparison with the hardships of the preceding generations, just as his life with its comforts affords a striking contrast to that of his uncle Resolved White, who it is said built the first frame house in Norwalk, as he was the first settler who was an adept in the carpenter's trade. But whatever the conditions under which he labored, they bred in him the desire and the determination to win success. This has come to him with the passage of the years and is due to his own exertions alone. On the 31st of March, 1893, Mr. Ross was united in marriage to Miss Daisy C. Daugherty, a daughter of D. W. and Alzina (Snyder) Daugherty. She was born in 1877 in Hardin county and was the elder of the two daughters born to her parents, Julia being the other. Mr. and Mrs. Ross have eight children: Victor, born February 5, 1894; Russell R., July 6, 1896; Virgil, November 1s, 1897 ; Ruth, May 12, 1899 ; Amy, January 3o, 1901 ; Cecil, April 5, 1903; Milo, August 3, 1906; and Glenn, May 5, 1908. 392 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY The family attend the Episcopal church at Plymouth, Ohio, and are conscientious in their practice of its teachings. When called to exercise his franchise, Mr. Ross casts his ballot for the candidate and measures of the republican party, but aside from always being present at the polls at election, which he believes to be the duty of every citizen, he takes little active part in public affairs. He is a man highly regarded, nevertheless, for the strong qualities that mark his character, J. C. BOARDMAN. Among the many men who have witnessed the vast changes that have transpired since the opening of the early decades of the last century is J. C. Boardman, a farmer of Boughtonville, Ripley township. More than a witness, in fact, for he felled trees where are now teeming fields and built rough roads of logs where now stretch miles of macadam or gravel. The blood of men and women who had been pioneers flowed in his veins and the quickening impulse of the new life was in the very air he breathed from birth, for his father, Benaja Boardman, was said to have been the first white child born between Seneca and Cayuga lake. His birth occurred in 1794, and as he grew to manhood the desire possessed him to become a minister of the gospel and bring the word of light to those hardy people beyond the mountains. He was ordained in the Methodist church and came west to Ohio almost immediately, where by word and deed he urged the men and women not to forget the needs of the soul and organized the congregation that they ,-might worship in common: The field of his labors lay in this part of the state, but the influence of his life and the message he brought were not confined by any boundaries. His wife, Miss Laura Ann Hurd in her maidenhood, was a sympathetic and encouraging helpmeet She was born in 1799 in Connecticut and like her husband came from a family that had its genesis in England. She urged him to come to this Ohio wilderness in 1827, although she well knew that it meant the rearing of her children amid hardship and poverty. There were seven born to inherit this courage from mother and father: Caleb, Joshua, Samuel, Mary, Martha, William and Benaja. J. C. Boardman was born in Richland county, this state, March 5, 1828. In the difficult life in which the parents struggled it was early necessary that he do his share of hard, strength-requiring work, such as is not known today, for he tells with pardonable pride that at the age of fourteen he cleared an acre of timber that he might buy a pair of boots. He continued to fell trees for years, that the land might be converted into fruitful fields. Large numbers of the hewn logs were used in the construction of the historic plank roads, called corduroy roads in those days, and Mr. Boardman, still a young man, drove the ox-teams that dragged the massive tree trunks across the swamps to the place they were to be laid. With the advance in the times he has progressed; a substantial income and comforts have replaced hardships and privations ; and in the growing community of Ripley-township he filled a larger and larger place, a man highly respected and honored for his courage and the strength of his character. He now owns two hundred acres in Ripley township, is a stockholder in the Farmers' Bank at Green- HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 393 wich, and as trustee and school director has assisted in the promotion of the interests and welfare of his fellow citizens. More than half a century ago Mr. Boardman was united in marriage to Miss Helen Ames. She was born in Ithaca, New York, in 1831, and was a daughter of Benjamin and Lydia (Ellis) Ames, who were of English extraction and came to Ohio in comparatively early days: On the 15th of September, 1903, the couple celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding and for five more years they were permitted to traverse life's highway together, until, on the 30th of June, 1908, Mrs. Boardman was released from the cares of this world. She was a noble wife and a good mother to the four children born of her. These are Eva, Carrie, Benjamin and Frank. To the Methodist faith in which he was reared, Mr. Boardman has always given his adherence and in the little church of his township has taken a vital interest, having served the congregation as steward, trustee and class leader. In politics he has always given his support to the republican party, but he inclines more and more to some of the principles advocated by the prohibitionists. One of the oldest men of Ripley township, he is also one of its finest citizens, his life constantly being an example of industry, frugality and the guidance of sound principles. JONATHAN TRUMBULL MEAD. Jonathan Trumbull Mead, well known as a representative of agricultural life in Huron county, was born in Fitchville township, April 25, 1835. His birth occurred on the farm where he now resides, his father, Peter Mead, having taken up this tract of one hundred and sixty-three acres as a claim from the government in 1814. Peter Mead removed from Greenwich, Connecticut, to Fairfield, New York, in 1812. His father, Peter Mead, Sr., had been a soldier of the Revolutionary war, serving for seven years in defense of colonial interests and holding the rank of sergeant. When the country again became engaged in war with England his son, Peter Mead. Jr., responded to the call to arms, taking part in the war of 1812. He was afterward a pensioner of the government, receiving eight dollars per month in recognition of the aid which he had rendered on the field of battle. Coming to Ohio at an early day Peter Mead, Jr., was one of the pioneers of Huron county and the first to establish a home in Fitchville township, taking up his abode here when much of the land was still in possession of the government. A greater part of it was covered with the native growth of timber and it required much arduous labor to transform it into productive fields. Peter Mead, Jr., however, secured his claim and took up the difficult work of preparing the land for the plow. In clue course of time he made his place a productive tract, its fields yielding generous harvests. For several terms he filled the office of justice of the peace and J. T. Mead now has in his possession the law book which his father used and which was printed in 1841. He also has a dress-coat which was worn by his grandfather over eighty years ago. Peter Mead kept the first real-estate records of Huron county and was closely connected with many other labors and events 394 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY which marked the train of progress. As the work of improvement was carried on in his section of the state Peter Mead, Jr., took an active part in the transformation which was being wrought. On one occasion he gave to Amos Reynolds fifty acres of land and while assisting him in the woods, chopping down trees, both of them being barefooted at the time, Mr. Mead noticed some scars upon his companion's feet and asked how he came by them. Mr. Reynolds replied that when he was a boy fishing he, one day, fell into the water and cut his feet on some oyster shells and that he would have been drowned had it not been for the help of another boy who rescued him. Further questioning and response led to the conclusion that it was Peter Mead, who had performed the rescue, although each had lost knowledge of the other's whereabouts during the years which had elapsed after the incident had occurred. Reared upon the frontier, Jonathan Trumbull Mead was educated in one of the old time log schoolhouses in which the district schools of that day convened. He always remained upon the home farm, for his father died when the son was but nineteen years of age and he afterward lived with his widowed mother who survived for many years, passing away July 3, 1884. In his farm work Mr. Mead Was progressive and in the course of years erected new buildings upon the place and added many modern improvements which make the farm one of comfort and convenience. He is also an auctioneer, well known in connection with that work which he has followed continuously since 1855. He has conducted sales in a great many states in the Union, handling both merchandise and farm property and he still follows the same business. As the years have passed he has prospered in his undertakings, and has had extended landed possessions. Although he has recently sold one hundred acres he is still the owner of three hundred and eighty acres of choice Ohio land. On the 26th of June, 1860, Mr. Mead was united in marriage to Miss Pamelia Jane Daniels, who was born in Ruggles township, Ashland county, Ohio, August 20, 1839. Her father was William Daniels, who settled in Ashland county in pioneer times and died in 1870 at the age of sixty-two years. The mother passed away in 1906 when eighty-seven years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Mead have become the parents of four children : Rowena Jane, born July 7, 1861, and Charles Newberry, born June 19, 1873, who are still living, while Arilie Amorit and Kitty Belle have passed away. Mr. Mead is entitled to wear the Grand Army button from the fact that he enlisted in September, 1864, in the Twelfth Ohio Independent Battery under Captain Frank Jackson. He was a representative in the third generation in the family which has done splendid military service, his grandfather having been a soldier of the Revolution, his father of the war of 1812, while his son Charles enlisted for service in the Spanish-American war with Troop A, of the First Ohio Cavalry. He supplemented his early education by study in Oberlin College. Mr. and Mrs. Mead have spent the last six winters in Florida, thus avoiding the rigors of the northern climate. His political allegiance has always been given to the republican party. Mrs. Mead attends the Congregational church, with which she has long held membership. Mr. Mead is among the oldest of the native sons of Huron county, having for seventy-four years resided within its borders so that his memory compasses the period of almost its entire growth, forming a HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 395 connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present. He has seen the forests cuts down and the fields cultivated until the district has been made to bloom and blossom as the rose and in the work of general improvement he has been deeply interested, bearing his full share as a public-spirited citizen. CHARLES A. COOLEY. Charles A. Cooley is a substantial and representative agriculturist of Wakeman township, Huron county, and comes from a family well known and prominent in the early history of this state. He was born in Brownhelm, Lorain county, on the 26th of February, 1866, a son of Charles E. and Anna A. (Bacon) Cooley, both natives of Lorain county. George Bacon, the maternal grandfather of our subject, in company with two brothers, came with his family to Ohio from Massachusetts in 1818, the family being the second to locate in Brownhelm. The district was still covered,with virgin forest and the three brothers had to clear a space large enough to build their cabins. They entered large tracts of land and concentrated their efforts upon the improvement and cultivation of the same. George Bacon became very prosperous in his agricultural undertaking and was also recognized as a prominent figure in public affairs. He was a civil engineer and in this capacity assisted in a large degree in the early work of laying out and developing the community. He served as county commissioner for a number of years and was also called to other offices, being recognized as a capable and worthy citizen. Moses B. Cooley, the paternal grandfather, brought his family to Ohio from Connecticut soon after the arrival of the Bacons and likewise cast in his lot with the early settlers in this section of the country, aiding in the work of reclaiming the wild district for purposes of civilization. He, too, met with marked success in his farming pursuits and became a great worker in church circles of the community. Both grandfathers lived to a ripe old age and were well known and influential men in their different spheres. Charles E. Cooley, the son of Moses B. Cooley, followed the occupation to which he was reared and became a prosperous farmer and one of the most extensive landowners in Brownhelm. He was also active in public affairs and served for several years as the superintendent of the Lorain county infirmary. He married Miss Anna A. Bacon and in their family were two children, George E. and Charles A. The father's death occurred in Roodhouse, Illinois, August 28, 1898, while his first wife passed away in March, 1866. In 1872 he married Miss Addie Appleby, by whom he had one daughter, Addie, now the wife of Robert Crehore. His second wife died at Bay City, Michigan, December 20, 1907. Spending the years of his boyhood and youth upon his father's farm, Charles A. Cooley acquired his preliminary education in the schools of Brownhelm and later supplemented this training by a commercial course at Oberlin College. He remained at home, assisting his father in the cultivation of the fields until twenty-one years of age, when he went to South Dakota and engaged in agricultural pursuits on his own account. He was thus connected for eighteen months and then returned to Oberlin, Ohio, where he was identified with hotel interests in connec- 396 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY tion with his uncle, B. W. Lock, for a similar period. At the expiration of that time he went to Janesville, Wisconsin, and was there engaged in the dairy business , for one year. Returning to Ohio in 1891, Mr. Cooley was united in marriage on the 16th of March of that year to Miss Jennie E. Morse, a daughter of George and Eliza (Ball) Morse, the former a prominent farmer of West Brownhelm and an extensive landowner, who was also interested in all movements for the public good. He passed away August 24, 1886, his wife still making her home in West Brown-helm. Mr. and Mrs. Cooley began their domestic life on a farm in Wakeman township, Huron county, but the latter was permitted to enjoy her home for only two years, her death occurring on the 19th of March, 1893. On the 4th of September, 1895, Mr. Cooley was again married, his second union being with Miss Ollie M. Whitney, a daughter of Theodore and Elizabeth (Parker) Whitney, of Elba, Nebraska, the father a former agriculturist of Huron county. Since his marriage Mr. Cooley has resided in Wakeman township and has devoted his time and attention to general farming and sheep raising, being a large wool and mutton dealer. He has concentrated all his energies upon his agricultural pursuits and has met with eminent success therein, being classed among the substantial farmers of his district. As he has prospered he has acquired considerable valuable property, his holdings now ranking him among the extensive landowners in his township. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Cooley has been blessed with four children: Lock C., George W., Anna E. and Leota M. The parents are members of the Congregational church and are interested to a great extent in the church and Sunday school work, Mrs. Cooley acting as superintendent of. the primary department of the Sunday school. She is a woman of domestic tastes, greatly devoted to her home and family, and she is highly esteemed by all who know her for her many sterling traits of character. Mr. Cooley gives loyal support to the republican party and is most active in its interests, but he has never sought nor desired public office as a reward for party fealty. He and his wife occupy an enviable place in the social circles of the community, while their residence is a favorite resort with a host of warm friends. It is well supplied with the best standard and current literature and their home is at all times dominated by a spirit of culture and refinement. CAPTAIN WILLIAM S. FOSTER. Among the many sons of Huron county, Ohio, who responded readily to their country's call for men to fight in her defense is notably Captain William S. Foster, who is a resident of Steuben, Greenfield township, and now lives in retirement upon a small tract of land which he owns, engaging in farming to a limited extent as a recreation rather than a means of livelihood, for the days of business are passed for him. Besides the property here Mr. Foster has some landholdings in Canada. One of Ohio's native sons, he was born in Norwalk on the 6th of November, 1838, his parents being John H. and Nancy N. (Boardman) Foster. The former was born in Buffalo, New York, in 1812, and in 183o came with his HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 397 parents, Stephen and Mary Foster, to Ohio. The family settled in Norwalk, where the old people died, the son identifying himself with the life and interests here. He first taught school for a number of years and then was employed as clerk in the auditor's office. On going into business for himself he opened a wholesale and retail grocery, which was successfully conducted, and some years later he built the warehouse at Norwalk, which he gave into the charge of his son William S. Foster. But he did more than this for the city. After his arrival there he had acquired considerable property which he opened up for residential purposes, building several nice houses for others. One of the streets of this section has since been named Foster avenue after him. As the choice of the whig voters of the city he served as mayor before the war, although it was not the first office he had held at the request of the citizens. A good and noble man he was a consistent member of the Presbyterian church and died in that faith in 1878. His wife was born in New York state and was about fifteen years of age when her parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Boardman, came to Norwalk, which was their home until their death. She likewise died there, in 188o, at the age of sixty-one, having reared a family of four children, namely : Frank, deceased ; William S.; John W., deceased; and Louisa, who married Ralph King, of Toledo, Ohio. William S. Foster attended the public schools of Norwalk and then continued his education in a college in the Catskill mountains from which he was graduated in 1853, having taken a general course. His school days over, he returned to Norwalk, where he had charge of the warehouse his father had built until the outbreak of the Civil war. Mr. Foster enjoys the distinction of having been the first man to enlist from Huron county. When the call for troops was sent through the country he was in Cleveland, but on hearing that Captain Sawyer was in Norwalk trying to muster a company, he took the first train for home and there found no one of the Norwalk Light Swords, to which he belonged and which Captain Sawyer was trying to get to enlist, had had the initiative to be the first to enroll. They needed a leader, but within an hour after Captain Foster had put down his name there were one hundred and thirty young men ready and willing to fight for the Union. They were mustered in as Company D, Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at Norwalk, Ohio, April 5, 1861, and proceeded to Cincinnati, where they joined the regiment and where their term of service was lengthened to three years. They then went to Camp Dennison and later to West Virginia, where their active participation in the war began. Captain Foster took part in the battles of Winchester and Stone River, being wounded in the neck in the latter. On this account he was sent to the hospital at Nashville but after six weeks was transferred to the hospital at Cincinnati and while there was recommended for promotion. On leaving the hospital he was given the rank of captain and was commissioned quartermaster of all the western territory, with headquarters at Fort Laramie. At the close of the war he still remained in the service in the western states for three years, helping to fight the Indians and rendering the country safe for travelers, and as he was the first from Huron county to enlist, so he was the last to leave, when on the 6th of September, 1868, he was mustered out of the service, having been in seven years and four months. When his country no longer needed his aid he came back to Norwalk and after a short time engaged in building trestles for railroads. This business took him over the greater part of the United States and 398 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY Canada, being in Charleston, South Carolina, at the time of the earthquake there, In fact he was a guest at one of the city hotels that was completely destroyed, and remained in the city for some time afterward to assist in repairing the destruction. In all he worked about thirty years at trestle building but is now living retired on his little farm, raising chickens and succulent green things. Captain Foster has never married. He finds abundant society and companionship, however, with his fellow members of the Grand Army post at Akron, Ohio, There the reminiscences of the days of fighting are retold and the past is contrasted with the peacefulness of the present. CHARLES C. OWEN. Charles C. Owen, a progressive agriculturist of Greenfield township, is the owner and proprietor of a fine farm of one hundred and forty-five acres. It was on this farm on the 4th of February, 1858, that he was born and here he has followed agricultural pursuits for almost half a century, the neat appearance of his property and excellent condition of everything about the place being indicative of the prosperity which he has achieved. His parents were Lafayette S. and Mary J. (Clark) Owen, the former having been born in Herkimer county, New York, the son of John Owen, who came to this county about 1836 and settled in Ripley township, where he bought the farm on which he spent the remainder of his life, passing away when he was about seventy years of age. Lafayette S. Owen was a lad of eleven years when he came with his parents to Huron county and throughout his boyhood he pursued his studies in an old log school house, where he mastered the elementary branches of learning therein taught, during the winter months when his assistance was not needed in the fields. After reaching man's estate he was enabled to purchase the present farm of our subject from the heirs of his mother-in-law. After a life of usefulness, honesty of purpose and unfaltering industry, he here passed away in 1904. He had married Mary J. Clark, who was born April 7, 1828, and died May 30, 1902. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Clark, who came from Ireland, settling in this district about the year 1820, when the entire region was covered with timber and underbrush. He bought land to a considerable extent in this locality, which he cleared and cultivated. Like most of the early settlers he built for his home a small log house and lived in this county for about thirty years, his death having occurred about 185o. Mr. and Mrs. Lafayette S. Owen became the parents of four children: Alice J., who married William Ruggles, of Peru township ; Charles C., of this review; Carrie E., who makes her home with her brother on the home farm; and Fannie E., who married Charles Snyder, of Peru township. Charles C. Owen attended the district schools during the winter months, and in the summer, assisting his father with the farm labor, learned through the school of experience valuable lessons in agriculture that served him well when, upon the death of his father, he was given full charge of the farm. 399 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. LAFAYETTE OWEN 400 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 401 His sister, Carrie E., who yet remains at home, is his able assistant, managing the affairs of the household, while he carries on general farming. Devoting his entire time and attention to the further development of the fields, he takes no active part in politics and does not belong to any fraternal organizations. He is a man of social, genial nature, who readily wins friends, and in his business affairs his straightforward and reliable methods have won him classification with the representative agriculturists of the community. JOSEPH H. GLEASON. Joseph H. Gleason is one of the successful farmers of Ripley township, but he is also one of that valiant number of Ohio's sons who forsook their homes and their comfort's or the sufferings of the battlefield when their country needed the support of their arms. He owns one hundred and sixteen acres of land in the vicinity of the village of Boughtonville, the farm on which he was born March 15, 1843. The Gleason family is of Scotch-Irish descent and the name Joseph has been borne by one of the sons for many generations, a great-great-grandfather of Joseph H. Gleason having been known by that cognomen and having transmitted it to his son Joseph; who in turn bestowed it upon his son who became the father of Caleb Gleason, the father of the subject of this sketch. On coming to this country the Gleason family settled in New York state, and there in Cayuga county was Caleb Gleason born. Shortly after his marriage, however, he removed to Ohio and settled on the farm which became the birthplace and has since been the home of his son Joseph H. Gleason. The woman who became his wife and the mother of his children was in her maidenhood Miss Melinda Hackett, a native of Maine, though her parents, Joseph and Sarah (Cross) Hackett, belonged to the state of New York. They were of Irish descent. Seven children were born to Caleb Gleason and his wife: Worthington, Loeta, Emily, Sarah, Charlotte, Martha and Joseph. Joseph H. Gleason was reared at home on the farm and received what education he could from the district schools. He was not of age when the Civil war was inaugurated, but the fact of his minority did not deter him from enlisting among the first of those ready to incur the hazards of the deadly struggle. On the 9th of October, 1861, he was mustered into Company C, Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and after more than four years of service was honorably discharged December 28, 1865, at Columbus, Ohio. In recognition of his bravery he was made a non-commissioned officer, serving as corporal and sergeant, for in the many engagements in which he participated several acts distinguished him from the rank and file of those about him. He fought at Shiloh, Stone River, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, in the Atlanta campaign, at Franklin and at Nashville, and then, after the close of the war, was sent to Texas, where he remained until brought to Columbus to be discharged. In one of the skirmishes at Buzzards Roost he was severely wounded and carries the bullet today. When his country no longer required his services Mr. Gleason returned to his Ohio home and took up the life of the farmer to which he had been reared. The years 402 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY have smiled upon his efforts, his toil has been richly remunerated, and his tar.. one of the best cultivated as well as cne of the most fertile of Ripley township. On the conclusion of his career as a soldier, in 1863, Mr. Gleason was married to Miss Emeline Croxton, who was born March 23, 1843, and is a daughter William and Susan (Gibson) Croxton, in whose family were eight children Angeline, Emeline, Louisa, Antoinette, Samuel, Caroline, Florence and Milton. Of Mr. and Mrs. Gleason's union there have been born four children: Sherwood Frank, Wilbur and Meda. Politically Mr. Gleason's sympathies are with the republican party which supported the nation in her hours of trial. He is not active in its ranks, however nor a seeker for public preferment, though he has served the township as trustee and as assessor for a number of terms. In the meetings of the Grand Army post of Ripley he revives the memories of those days when a canteen or blanket shared made men closer than brothers. WALLACE W. KETCHUM. Wallace W. Ketchum, who owns and operates a fine farm of three hundred acres, is recognized as one of the prominent and progressive agriculturists of New London township and in his efforts is meeting with most gratifying success. A native of New London township, Ohio, he was born October 6, 1849, and is a son of Ambrose S. and Katharine (Gates) Ketchum, both natives of Schenectady county, New York, the former's birth occurring on the 14th of March, 1817, while the latter was born on the loth of September, 1820. The father came to New London in 1839 and the first few year he spent in the employ of John Miller, receiving twelve dollars per month in return for his services. Upon his arrival in Ohio he had but twenty-five cents and a jack knife in his possession, but with characteristic energy and determination he set about earning a livelihood, with the ultimate ambition of sometime owning a farm of his own, He continued in the employ of Mr. Miller for two years and during that time, by industry and careful economy, he had accumulated sufficient means with which to purchase fifty acres adjoining the corporation limits of the village of Rochester, in Lorain county. Within a year, however, he traded that property for fifty acres located in New London township on the Butler road, and there he continued to reside during the remainder of his life. His entire time was devoted to the work of the farm and he became signally successful along that line, during his lifetime accumulating a property consisting of one thousand acres of rich Ohio land, almost all of which lay in one body. This property was divided among his four children at the time of his death, which occurred August 3, 1896. Together with general farming he had engaged in raising large quantities of stock and this branch of his business was a source of gratifying additional profit. He was a man of fine judgment and keen mind, and possessed certain qualities which, had he enjoyed proper educational advantages, would have made him an excellent jurist. His advice and counsel were frequently sought by his fellow men and be- HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 403 cause of the reputation which he had gained for his wisdom and veracity, his word ; was always taken as authority, its correctness never being doubted. In 1842 he had wedded Miss Katharine Gates, with whom he happily traveled life's journey until his death. He was a stalwart supporter of the republican party and passed away in the faith of the Free Will church. The mother was a woman of excellent characteristics, of a motherly, domestic nature, whose every thought was for her family while she was untiring in her efforts to make the home attractive for those she loved. She survived her husband for more than a decade, passing away in December, 1908. In their family were four children, namely: Emma H., who was born in 1845; Wallace W., of this review ; Alonzo S., born on the 14th of March, 1852 ; and Earl M., horn in the year 1863. Prior to the father's death the three sons all remained upon the homestead, assisting in the operation of the farm and conducting the work in unison, up to the time of the father's demise, when 'the property was divided. Wallace W. Ketchum, whose name introduces this review, together with the other members of his family, enjoyed the advantages of good common school education, and as stated the early period of his life was passed under the parental roof. He was united in marriage on the 26th day of December, 1871, to Miss Helen M. Thomas, and they began their domestic life upon the farm which is now his place of residence. His farm consists of three hundred acres of fine farming property, to the further development and cultivation of which he has since directed his time and attention. He has put about two thousand five hundred dollars worth of improvements upon the farm since it came into his possession, has equipped it with all of the modern conveniences and accessories, and it stands today a model farm in all of its appointments. He has devoted his time and attention to general farming, and in the conduct of his business affairs has used up-to-date and progressive methods, and he ranks among the substantial, enterprising and successful agriculturists of New London township. With the passing of the years the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ketchum has been blessed with three children. The eldest son, Clarence W. Ketchum, was born on the 6th of September, 1872, and on the 2d of June, 1903, he met his death in a collision on a street car line a few miles east of Norwalk, Huron county. Lee H. Ketchum, the second in order of birth, was born June 15, 1874, and is now residing upon the home farm with his parents. He was married, on Christmas day, 1895, to Miss May McAfee, and unto this union have been born four children, namely: Wilber W., born August 23, 1898; Lester H., October 25, 1899 ; Morris G., December 18, 1902 ; and Lawrence G., June 9, 1908. The youngest son, Verne V. Ketchum, who was born on the 17th of May, 1879, was married on the 25th of December, 1906, to Miss Ethel Weston. Well known and highly respected throughout the community, he is a young man of unusual ability along financial lines. He is now the cashier of the Farmers & Citizens Banking Company at Monroeville, Ohio, which position he has held for the past four years. It was through his ability arid enterprise that the Monroeville Organ Company was saved from ruin and placed upon a firm, paying basis, while other enterprises have been organized and carried to a successful point through his good judgment and industry. He is a worthy son of an honored father, and one of whom any parents might well be proud. 404 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY In his political allegiance Mr. Ketchum is a stalwart republican, giving loyal support to the party at the polls, but the honors and emoluments of office have no attraction for him, desirmg, as he does, to devote his entire time and energies to the conduct of his private business affairs. He holds membership with the Free Will Baptist church, and his life is at all times in harmony with its professions. Throughout his entire career he has been guided by the most honorable principles and h.is self-reliance unfaltering industry; combined with his integrity, constitute the salient features in his success. WILLIAM H. LUTZ. William H. Lutz, whose industry and enterprise are meeting with creditable success, owns and operates a farm of seventy acres located in. Ripley township, where he is well known as a progressive and prosperous agriculturist. He was born January 29, 1854, in Ashland county, a son of Samuel and Susan (Kimmel) Lutz. The former, who was born on the loth of September, 1825, in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, was the eldest child born unto John and Sarah (Beamer) Lutz, the others being John, Manuel, Elias, Catherine and Sarah. The mother was born in Stark county, Ohio, April 25, 1828, a daughter of David and Susan (Welker) Kimmel, and a sister of Joseph, Michael, Henry, Lydia and Nancy Kimmel. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Lutz were born the following children: Aaron, Samuel, Frank, Charles, Sadie and William H. Reared under the parental roof, William H. Lutz acquired his education in the district schools of his native county, where he gained a good knowledge of the various branches of English learning. After laying aside his text-books he taught school for six years, proving himself an efficient instructor, clearly and readily imparting to others the knowledge which he had himself acquired. Later, however, thinking that the occupation to which he had been reared would prove more profitable, he took up agricultural pursuits and in that line of activity has since been actively engaged. He now owns a farm of seventy acres in Ripley township, upon which he has resided for seventeen years, and during that time he has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation. He practices rotation of crops, gives close study to the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and the proper care of same, and in the conduct of his business is progressive and up-to-date, his close application and good management of his affairs gaining him a high rank among the representative agriculturists of the township. William H. Lutz was united in marriage on the 25th of September, 1879, to Miss Mary A. McQuate, whose birth occurred in Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, March 30, 1856. She was the daughter of Henry and Mary A. (Garman) McQuate, whose family consisted of the following children, John, Henry, Amanda, Susanna, Emma, Caroline and Mary. As the years passed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lutz was blessed with two children, namely, Ray and Melvin. The latter was married in 1904 to Miss Emma Watman, by whom he has one child, Vera. Mr. Lutz and his wife are members of the German Baptist church, otherwise known as the Church of the Brethren, the teachings thereof constituting the HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 405 guiding influence of their lives. In politics Mr. Lutz is a republican, giving stalwart support to that party at the polls, although the honors and emoluments of public office have held no attraction for him. He served as a member of the board of education for a number of years, and the cause of education found in him a warm champion. Throughout the long years of his residence in Ripley township he has gained an extensive circle of friends who hold him in high regard, and his salient characteristics are such as constitute him a desirable and valuable citizen in any community in which he resides. THADDEUS W. HACKETT. Thaddeus W. Hackett is well known in Huron county, where he still owns an excellent farm. However, he is now engaged in business in Mount Dora, Florida, where he is conducting an undertaking establishment, while in that state he also owns and controls an orange grove. One of Huron county's native sons, he was born in Ripley township on the 9th of December, 1843, and is a son of Wheeler and Lydia ( Bowlby) Hackett. His paternal grandparents were Joseph and Sally (Frost) Hackett and they reared a family of eight children, namely : Wheeler, Alinda, Lovena, Charlotte, Elon, Curtis, Eron and Lewis This number included the father of our subject who, having arrived at years of maturity, wedded Lydia Bowlby. a daughter of Samuel and Martha Bowlby. Their children were: Sarah, Matilda, Lydia, George, Nelson, William, Alfred, Eliza, Manuel, Edward, Elizabeth and Samuel. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler Hackett was blessed with but three children: Thaddeus, Samuel and Edward. The first named spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farm lads, his time being divided between the work of the fields, the duties of the schoolroom and the pleasures of the playground. When he had reached man's estate he was married, Miss Lora Malvina. Thomas becoming his wife on the 3d of September, 1865. She was born on the 9th of June, 1847, and was a daughter of Levi and Laura (Hoag) Thomas, whose family numbered but three children, her sister and brother being Alice and Floyd Thomas. Mr. and Mrs. Hackett have 110 children of their own, but have reared an adopted daughter, Blanch L., who was born in 1881 and became a member of their household when twenty-two months old. She is now the wife of Frank Daniel and has four children: Harold, Ray, Edith and Frank. Mr. Hackett was well known in the business circles of Huron county for a considerable period. For twelve years he conducted an undertaking establishment in North Fairfield and then removed south to Mount Dora, Florida, where for seven years he has continued in the same business. During the dark days of the Civil war he offered his services to the government, enlisting when only eighteen years of age, on the 9th of August, 1862, as a member of Company D, One Hundred and. First Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was made bugler of his regiment and saw considerable active service, taking part in many of the most important battles of the war. He received honorable discharge on the 25th of March, 1864, in Tennessee, and now holds membership in the Grand Army of the 406 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY Republic. Fraternally he is also connected with the Masonic lodge at Fairfield, 1 with the Eastern Star, to which his wife also belongs, and is a member of the Odd Fellows lodge at Norwalk. Politically he is a republican, while his religious faith is indicated in his membership in the Universalist church. Throughout Huron county he has many friends who have known him from boyhood, and the high regard in which he is uniformly held shows that his has been a well spent and upright life. CHARLES L. MILLER. Charles L. Miller, although one of the more recent additions to the bar of Greenwich, has already gained recognition as a member of the legal fraternity worthy of a liberal public clientage, his years seeming no bar to his advancement in his chosen field of labor. One of Ohio's native sons, he was born in Greenfield township, Huron county, on the 24th of August, 1883, his parents being Charles and. Sophronia (Noble) Miller, both of whom were natives of this county. The paternal grandfather, John Miller, came from England and settled in Huron county, Ohio, where he devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, the maternal grandfather also being engaged in that occupation. The father, Charles Miller, died in Michigan, where he was then residing, in July, 1883, a month before the birth of his son and only child. After the death of the father the mother returned to Huron county, Ohio, and in the schools of Greenfield township Charles L. Miller acquired his early education. This training was later supplemented by study at the Fairfield high school, the Wharton high school and the Shiloh high school, the latter in Richland county, from which he was graduated with the class of 1903. The following two years were devoted to teaching, after which he took up the study of law under the direction of S. L. Americus, an attorney of Greenwich. He continued thus for two years, becoming thoroughly versed in the fundamental principles of the profession, and then pursued a one year's course in the Detroit College of Law, after which he was matriculated in the law department of the Ohio Northern University. He was awarded his Bachelor of Law degree by that institution in June, 1908, and a short time afterward opened up an office in Greenwich, becoming the successor of his former preceptor, S. L. Americus. Although it is well known that success at the bar is proverbially slow, nevertheless Mr. Miller has been most successful from the start and has already been accorded a gratifying and growing clientage. He is an intelligent young man, with the laudable ambition to succeed in his profession, and the fact that he has brought to the starting point of his legal career those qualities indispensable to the lawyer—a keen, rapid, logical mind, plus the business sense--and more than all a ready capacity for hard work, combined with a thorough grasp of the law and the ability accurately to apply its principles, argues well for future prominence and success in his chosen calling. In politics Mr. Miller is independent, preferring to give his support to the men and measures in his mind best adapted to subserve general welfare, He is not, however, remiss in matters of citizenship but on the contrary is public spirited to a marked degree, taking an active part in various affairs of public moment. He HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 407 is a strong advocate of public improvements and drew up the first petition for paved streets in Greenwich. He persevered in the agitation of the matter until he succeeded in having at least one mile of paved streets laid in the city. Fraternally he is a member of Greenwich Lodge, No. 543, F. & A. M., and attends the services of the Methodist Episcopal church, although not holding membership therein. A great student, he possesses a fine miscellaneous and law library, and he is well equipped by training and natural endowment to make a most successful practitioner at the bar. DON J. YOUNG. Don J. Young, who has the honor of being the youngest prosecuting attorney ever elected in the state of Ohio, was born in Norwalk, on the 8th of May, 1884. He is a son of S. M. and Isabelle (Wagner) Young, the former an attorney of Norwalk, of whom extensive mention is made in another part of this volume. Don J. Young received his early education in the common schools and later pursued a course in law at Western Reserve College, in Cleveland, Ohio. He engaged in the practice of law for a short time but is now serving his first year as prosecuting attorney of Norwalk county, having been elected to this office in 1908. Something of his personal popularity in the community is indicated in the fact that he was elected to his present office on the democratic ticket in a strong republican county, being the youngest prosecuting attorney ever elected in Ohio, as he was but twenty-four years of age at the time of his election. He has already given promise of a bright future, for along with those qualities indispensable to the lawyer—a keen, rapid, logical mind plus the business sense and a ready capacity for hard work—he has also brought to this, the starting point of his legal career, eloquence of language and a strong personality. On the 29th of July, 1908, Mr. Young was united in marriage to Miss Elaine M. Dennis, who was born August 7, 1883, and is a daughter of Lloyde B. and Eliza Celestina (Yale) Dennis. Mrs. Young on the maternal side comes of Welsh lineage, her great-grandfather, Benjamin Yale, tracing his ancestry back to the little rock-ribbed country, while he is a direct descendant of David Yale. The Yale family early settled in America, representatives of the name having come from Wales to this country in 1637, settlement being made in New Haven. Moses Yale, the son of Benjamin Yale, was born October 5, 1808, in Rhinebeck, Dutchess county, New York. Early in life he came alone to Norwalk, Ohio, and here began work in the Reflector printing office as a typesetter, remaining in that position until after he was married, when he became identified with the grocery business, in which connection he remained until he retired from active business life, after he had passed the sixtieth milestone on life's journey. During his residence here he purchased the old jail building and moved it across the corner where the Taber store now stands, after which he sold it, realizing what was considered in those days a handsome profit. On September 22, 1832, he had married Miss Ann Rowland, a native of Putnam county, New York, who was born on the 1st of August, 1812. The marriage occurred in Huron county, Ohio, and of the children 408 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY born unto that union three are yet living, Mrs. H. S. Mitchell, Mrs. L. B. Dennis and Charles Yale. Mr. Yale passed away at the ripe old age of eighty-two years. after a long and severe illness. Lloyde B. Dennis, who married Miss Eliza Celestina Yale, a daughter of Moses Yale, was born August 12, 1837, in Oswego county, New York, while the date of his wife's birth was February 22, 1843. He took his first step in the business world as a telegraph operator, but on the 19th of April, 1861, he laid aside all personal matters and enlisted as a member of Company H, Fifteenth New York Volunteer Engineers, under Captain. Ketchum, in Colonel Murphyls division. In December of that year he was transferred to the Telegraph Corps and was sent to Virginia and Kentucky, where he served for a long time with General Fremont as his private telegrapher. He was thus engaged until August 13, 1863, when he was discharged at Catlettsburg, Kentucky. Later he was attached to the commissary department and remained in the service until the close of the war. After his return home he directed his attention to the lumber business, handling the lumber from the time that, as a log, it was cut from the stump until it was made into furniture. He was identified with other interests also, at one time acting in the capacity of engineer with the Standard Oil Company. He has now, however, retired from active business and is enjoying a well earned rest after many years of hard labor. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis was blessed with four children, namely : Washington Yale, born January 1o, 1868 ; Edith, who died in infancy; Paul, born December 12, 1879, who passed away March 25, 1908; and Elaine M., the wife of Don J. Young, the subject of this review. The children were all educated at Norwalk high school and the son is a very prominent real-estate dealer in Minneapolis. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Don J. Young has been blessed with one little daughter, Celestina Elaine, who is the light and life of the household. The young couple are very popular in the social circles of Norwalk, where they have a wide circle of warm friends, and Mr. Young, not only by reason of the gratifying position he has attained in professional circles of this city but also because of his upright manhood and his many sterling traits of character, has won the respect. confidence and good will of his fellow citizens, the concensus of public opinion according him high rank among the prominent, representative and influential citizens of the community. AUGUST A. RUFFING. August A. Ruffing, the president and superintendent of the Gallup-Ruffing Handle Company of Norwalk, is numbered among the worthy native sons of Huron county, his birth having here occurred on the 23d of February, 1871. He obtained a good practical education in the common schools of this county and assisted his father in the cultivation of the home farm until he had attained the age of twenty-one years. He then secured employment in the factory of C. W, Smith, where he remained for three years and subsequently removed to Chicago, working in a factory there for about eight months. At the end of that time, he 409 - PHOTO OF A. A. RUFFING 410 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 411 returned to Norwalk, where he remained for a short time and then went back to the home farm. Later he made his way to Miami county, Ohio, where he accepted a position with a firm that was extensively engaged in the manufacture of wooden handles, remaining in that employ for five years. On the expiration of that period, he once more returned to Norwalk and in August, 1902, organized the Gallup-Ruffing Handle Company, of which he was made president and has continued as the chief executive Officer of the company to the present time. The concern was organized for twenty thousand dollars under the laws of the state of Delaware and has since been incorporated under the laws of the state of Ohio. In the first year, the business of the company amounted to about twenty-five thousand dollars and during the seven years of its existence, has increased to sixty thousand dollars—a fact that would seem to augur well for its continued success and prosperity. The shipments of the house extend throughout the United States, Canada and many foreign countries and the volume of their trade is constantly increasing. The plant is equipped with all of the latest machinery, some of which is the original design of the proprietors and fifty-five workmen are employed in the conduct of the business. H. A. Gallup is the secretary, treasurer and financial manager of the concern, while Mr. Ruffing acts in the capacity of president and superintendent and the success which has attended the enterprise is attributable in large measure to his excellent management, sound judgment and keen discrimination. He is now widely recognized as a prominent representative of the industrial interests of his native county and his life record stands as a splendid example of what can be accomplished through force of character and unfaltering diligence. On the 1st of August, 1899, Mr. Ruffing was united in marriage to Miss Anna M. Marsh, who was born in Huron county, March 6, 1874, her father being Thaddeus Marsh, an agriculturist of this county. They now have three children : Clare A., Clement H. and Veronica. In his political views, Mr. Ruffing is a stalwart republican, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the German Catholic church. His good qualities, and they are many, have strongly endeared him to those with whom he has been associated and wherever he is known he is popular with a large circle of friends. GEORGE H. DAWSON. George H. Dawson, who is one of the progressive farmers of Richmond township, Huron county, Ohio, has had a long and valuable experience as an agriculturist and shows the result of it in his work on his fine farm of one hundred and thirty-four acres. In addition to this property, he also owns one hundred and forty-nine and three-quarter acres in Richland county. Mr. Dawson was born in Richmond township, Huron county, May 26, 1864, his parents being James B. and Mary (Dickison) Dawson. When he was twenty-one years old, his father left England, his native land, hoping to find a broader field of operation in the new world. By occupation he was a farmer and was so successful that he was able to live retired during the last quarter of a century of his life. His death occurred 412 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY November 11, 1908, and he was called upon to mourn the loss of his first wife 187o. She had borne him the following children: J. W.; A. H.; Eliza J., was married W. G. Channey ; George H.; and J. E. Later he married Julia Sweetland and their children were as follows : H. S., D. F., C. A., R. A. and who married D. W. Hillis. Until he was nineteen, George H. Dawson attended the district school and made the most of his opportunities, although a year before he completed his course he was called upon to assume the management of his father's farm, and for the following twenty-five years he cultivated the property. In the meanwhile he invested in his two farms, and in 19o9 he moved upon the Richmond township one and has since devoted his attention to improving and developing it. In February, 1883, Mr. Dawson married Minerva Post, a daughter of William B. and Rebecca Post, who were early settlers in Huron county, where both are still residing. Mrs. Dawson belongs to a family that is as follows: Rosetta, who married J. H. Hord ; Luella, who married S. N. Duffy ; Minerva, who is Mrs. Dawson ; Ida, who married M. L. Williams ; W. C. Emmery ; Anna, who married J. W. Stevens ; and Ethel, who married Bert Steel. Mr. and Mrs. Dawson are the parents of the following children: I. L., Edna, Addie, Bertha, Adelbert, Altie and Laura. In politics he is a republican. The family belong to the United Brethren church and give that body their hearty support both in contributions and work. They are well liked in the neighborhood, and Mr. Dawson is recognized as a good farmer and excellent business man. D. H. CLARK. D. H. Clark, a resident farmer of Peru township, numbered among the men of unfaltering enterprise and progressive spirit, is successfully cultivating one hundred and seventeen acres of highly improved land. Although now seventy-six years of age, he yet gives personal supervision to the further development of his farm and his life record of unfaltering and intelligently directed activity should put to shame Many a man of much younger years but of less resolute spirit who would relegate to others the burdens he himself should bear. Mr. Clark is a native of New England, his birth having occurred in Vermont. July 21, 1833. His parents were Daniel and Diana (Warner) Clark. The father, who was born May 3, 1806, died in 1862, while his wife, whose birth occurred Aug. 9, 18̊6, passed away on the 3oth of October, 1881. They came to Huron county, Ohio, in 1834, when it was still a frontier district, the work of improvement and development seeming scarcely begun. Many changes have occurred during that time and D. H. Clark has been a witness of the entire transformation. On reaching Huron county, the family settled in Peru township, and the father, who was a carpenter and joiner by trade, assisted in building a number of the log houses and barns in the locality in that early day. He also erected a log cabin for himself, and he and his family occupied that little home for a long time. He worked diligently upon his farm but never allowed his business affairs to exclude HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 413 his interest in religious matters. He was a prominent man in the church and as: sisted in building the house of worship for the Universalists at Peru in 1840. He belonged to that church throughout his entire life, held a number of offices therein and was very active in the church work. In his family were eight children. Mariette, who was born September 22, 1831, married Lyman Johnson and both are now deceased. D. H. is the second in the family. Dean, who was born December 6, 1834, died August 10, 1863. Henry, born July 19, 1836, died April 20, 1888. Warner, born May 24, 1838, died February 2, 1849. Cornelia, who was born February 1, 1842, died January 28, 1849. Francis M., born October 8, 1844, died March 5, 1849. Mary I., born January 22, 1848, died February 5, 1849. Thus four of the children died within a few days of each other in the year 1849. D. H. Clark of this review has spent nearly his entire life in this part of Ohio, save for a few years which he passed in Kansas when a young man. He learned the carpenter's trade in his youthful days and followed that pursuit until about forty-five years of age, during which time he built a large number of houses and barns in his vicinity. In 1883 he erected the commodious residence which he now occupies and which stands as a monument to his thrift, skill and industry. His life has been a' busy and useful one, and his success is the merited reward of earnest and persistent labor. Since his retirement from industrial lines he has given his attention to agricultural pursuits and is now cultivating an excellent tract of land of one hundred and seventeen acres, constituting one of the finely improved farms of the county. Mr. Clark has always been interested in everything relating to the public welfare and has cooperated in many movements for the general good. He has served as school director for a number of years and the cause of education finds in him a stalwart champion. He has always belonged to the Universalist church and at the present time is the treasurer and one of the trustees of the church at Peru. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day, although he has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking. Pleasantly Situated in his home life, Mr. Clark was married March 1, 1865, to Miss Melvina Barker, a daughter of Robert and Lucy (Standish) Barker, who were early settlers of Peru township. Mrs. Clark was born upon the farm which is now her home in a little log cabin, in which her parents were living. They had come to Ohio from the state of New York when still single and were married in this county in 1837. Her father was born August 10, 1809, and her mother's birth occurred in March of the same year. Both are now deceased, Mr. Baker having passed away July 6, 1877, while his wife died on the 25th of October, following. They were, therefore, separated in death for but a brief period. They became the parents of three children: Liddie, who married Austin Patterson and is now a widow living in California ; Mrs. Clark ; and John, deceased. Mrs. Clark is one of the direct descendants of Miles Standish. By her marriage she became the mother of one son, Dean B., who was born October 18, 1878, and married Altah Baker, a (laughter of Wilson E. and Mary Pauline (Barnum) Baker, of Licking county, Ohio. They were married March 1, 1900, and have two children: Walter B. and Mary Louise. They reside upon the old homestead with his father and Dean B. Clark now operates the farm. 414 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY Few citizens of the county can boast a longer residence here than D. H. Clark, who for seventy-five years has lived in Huron county and has been an interested witness of its growth and development. He has lived to see the forests cut away, the land reclaimed and converted into rich fields. He can remember the time when the harvesting was done with the scythe and the cradle, for it was not until he had become a factor in agricultural life that the modern reaper, mower and steam thresher were introduced nor was the riding plow known in the period of his boyhood. The labor of the farm was much more arduous than at the present time, The homes of the settlers, too, were in many cases log cabins, and they were heated by fireplaces and lighted by candles and later by kerosene lamps. Mr. Clark has lived to see remarkable changes, carrying the county forward to its present state of progress when the agriculturist enjoys the advantages of the telephone and the rural mail delivery as well as the benefits of all the modern farm machinery which has so completely revolutionized the work of the fields. GILBERT M. WOOD. Gilbert M. Wood, one of the hard-working and quiet farmers of Fitchville township, Huron county, was born in New London township, February 1, 1862, a son of Willis arid Hilda (Springstead) Wood. The mother was a native of this county, but the father was born in Putnam county, New York, and was only six years of age when his parents came to Ohio, settling in New London township, Huron county. He followed the life of a farmer, was a man of fine character and intelligence, but of a retiring disposition, so that he was not well known beyond his immediate circle of friends and acquaintances. He was quite a sportsman, however, and enjoyed nothing more than a seat on a fine horse, behind a leash of hounds, in pursuit of a fox. A good shot and a successful trapper, he vet derived more pleasure from the spirit of the chase than from the value of the pelts he secured. He died in October, 1886, leaving a widow and two sons, William J. and Gilbert M., who still survive. Gilbert M. Wood was reared at home on his father's farm, and received his education in the district schools of New London and Fitchville townships. All his life he has been a farmer, even in the period of his childhood and youth assisting with the work on the borne place and assuming responsibility as his age and strength increased. In 1886 he began life on his own account, engaging in farming in the neighborhood in which he had been reared. In 1892 he removed to Fulton county, Ohio, where for three years he devoted himself to agriculture, returning to his farm in Fitchville in 1895. On this he has since made his home, practicing a general line of farming, for which his land is excellently adapted. In October, 1886, Mr. Wood was married to the woman of his choice, Miss Minnie, Post, an orphan girl of German descent. To this union have been born two children: a son, Willis W., a bookkeeper employed by the Honing Electric Company, of Cleveland, Ohio ; and a daughter, Lillian, who remains at home. Mr. Wood is deeply interested at all times in the matters that concern the public and the welfare of the citizens of this land, but he has never actively en- HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 415 gaged in politics nor has he sought or filled any office within the gift of the people. He believes, strongly, however, that every man should exercise his right of franchise, and so is unfailingly at the polls on election day, when his vote is cast for the democratic candidate and for democratic measures. But for all his reluctance to enter the public arena, he is a public-spirited man, an advocate of good government and progress, who gives his influence to the promotion of better conditions. He is particularly interested in the advancement of education in the township and in the improvement of the roads. JESSE E. WHEELER. The enterprising village of Chicago Junction has various citizens who continually conserve its interests by their activity in business lines as well as through their relation to public affairs. In this class Jesse E. Wheeler was numbered, having for twenty years been engaged in the dry-goods business here. As a merchant he was very successful and was looked upon by everyone as one of the most agreeable and accommodating business men of the city. He passed away October 2, 1909, and the fact that one thousand people gathered to pay their last tribute of respect to him was indicative of his high standing in the community. One of the native sons of the county, his birth occurred in Greenfield township, January 22, 1854. His father, Calvin Wheeler, was born in the state of New York and when a boy came to Huron county with his father, John Wheeler, who settled in Greenfield township, casting in his lot with the pioneer residents who were actively engaged in the arduous task of reclaiming wild land for the purposes of civilization. He cleared away the timber, turned the first furrows and in course of time gathered good harvests as a reward for his labors. Upon the farm which he developed and tilled he reared his family and lived to a ripe old age, honored and respected by all who knew him. He was a man of strong character and religious nature and for many years was a local preacher in the Baptist church, so that he was uniformly styled Elder Wheeler throughout the entire community. He reached the venerable age of ninety-two years. Calvin Wheeler, reared amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life, engaged in merchandising in Greenfield after attaining his majority. Meeting with success in business he continued as an active representative of commercial interests there for many years and by reason of his straightforward dealing enjoyed the respect and confidence of all with whom he came in contact. He died in Chicago Junction, May 22, 1896, having for forty years survived his wife, who passed away on the 5th of March, 1866. She bore the maiden name of Mary Richards and was a native of New York. In her girlhood days she came with her parents to Huron county, the family settling on the present site of Chicago Junction. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Wheeler were twelve children, seven sons and five daughters, namely: Janette, who is deceased; Agnes ; David, who has departed this life ; Ben ; Judson, also deceased; Chauncey ; J. E. and J. A., twins ; Alice and Alfred. twins ; Lillis, and Linda. 416 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY J. E. Wheeler was indebted to the country schools for the educational opportunities which he enjoyed. He pursued his studies through the winter months and in the summer seasons worked on his father's farm, toiling in the fields from the time of early spring planting until corps were harvested in the late autumn. In 1875, when twenty-one years of age, he went to California, where he remained for ten years, giving his time to various pursuits. In 1885 he returned to Ohio and joined his brother, J. A. Wheeler, in the mercantile business in Steuben, until 1889, when he came to Chicago Junction and opened a dry-goods store in an old frame building. Upon the completion of the opera house block the busine was removed to its present location and there he conducted a well appointed stork. supplied with all modern conveniences to facilitate the conduct of the trade. In the years which came and went prior to his death he built up a very extensive business. His sister Alice, now Mrs. Barber, was his partner in the enterprise from the time that he opened the store in Chicago. He was a man of progressive methods and the business was well managed, the stock thoroughly up-to-date in every particular and the trade of the house constantly grew. He made a study of the wishes of the people and his reasonable prices and honorable dealings constituted salient features in his success. His methods were always of a constructive character and never was he known to take advantage of the necessities of another in business transactions. In 1890 Mr. Wheeler was united in marriage to Miss Mary Keesy, a native of Huron county and a representative of an old pioneer family. Her father, the Rev. W. A. Keesy, was a minister in the United Brethren church and his life was an influencing factor in the moral development of the community. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler was born one son, Raymond. The parents held membership in the United Brethren church and Mr. Wheeler was also identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In his life work he was actuated by laudable ambition and his record at all times was characterized by intelligent and well directed effort and by unswerving integrity and progressive methods. For some months prior to his demise he complained of not feeling well and friends urged him to rest from business for a time, but he felt that he must continue his attention to the store and did so until stricken with typhoid fever. He never recovered and on the 2d of October, 1909, passed away, his death coming as a distinct loss to the entire community. He always sought to do unto others as he would have them do unto him and was, therefore, a close follower of the golden ride. A lover of justice, his treatment of others was fair and his word was as good as a written promise. He never neglected his obligations nor his duties, was recognized as a man of determined character and one who maintained an unequivocal position upon any vital question. He was a friend and wise counselor in time of trouble and he gave liberally to charity. He was one of the first men to become a member of the Railroad Young Men's Christian Association and had continuously served as its treasurer since its organization. His funeral was one never to be forgotten by those who were in attendance. The services were of a most impressing character and all business houses of the city were closed from one thirty until four o'clock, and it is said that every firm was represented at the funeral. HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 417 Steadfastness of purpose, an unselfish life and purity of heart were manifest in the career of Jesse E. Wheeler and will long be remembered by those who knew him, and constituted an example well worthy of emulation. He stood for all that is highest and best in manhood and in citizenship and was at all times loyal to the public welfare and faithful in his friendships, but his best traits of character were reserved for his own home and fireside, where he was known as a most devoted and worthy husband and father, neglecting no opportunity to promote the happiness and welfare of his wife and son, whose interests he ever counted above his own. He left the impress of a noble soul upon the community with which he was identified through two decades. JACOB KOTZ. One of the older generation of farmers of Ripley township, whose persistent efforts in the cultivation of crops have been rewarded with pronounced success is Jacob Kotz. Although not a native of this state, for the past twenty-eight years he has been one of its citizens and has taken a deep interest in the welfare of his township, welcoming and advancing any movements that make for its improvement. He was born in Northampton county, Pennsylvania April 3, 1838. His parents, Henry and Elizabeth (Schuman) Kotz, were also natives of the Keystone state and reared a family of twelve children: John, Sarah, Edward, Isaac, Mary, Charity, Jacob,- Rebecca, Christina, Catherine, Daniel and Charles. The paternal grandparents of Jacob Kotz were Henry and Charity (Snyder) Kotz. Jacob Kotz was reared to agricultural pursuits. The educational facilities of his native state, though better than those in the territory farther west at the same period, were none too good as affording a preparation to meet the problems of life. Such as they were Jacob Kotz partook of them, working on the farm with his father in the spring, summer and early fall months, preparing his lessons and attending school when the inclemency of the season Made outdoor labor impossible. The training was effective; though perhaps hard, for Mr. Kotz has been successful in his operations when, he embarked on farming as his own vocation, by means of which he made a home for himself and family. In 1881 he came to Ripley township and settled upon the land on which he lives today. Since his arrival here he has entered into the spirit of this locality, raised his voice, as one of the school board, for the betterment of the schools, and when the Boughtonville Telephone Company was organized, bought stock in the concern, became one of its promoters and is still interested in its financial stability. On the 3d of November, 186o, Mr. Kotz and Miss Mary Ann Bitts were united in marriage: s Mrs. Kotz was born January 5, 1840, in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, and is a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Rasley) Bitts, and the granddaughter of Henry Bitts. She was the youngest of the four children born to her parents, the others being Reuben, Sarah and Elizabeth. To Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Kotz have been born six children: Elizabeth, who was born July 2o, 1861, married Jacob Snyder, and they have two sons, Franklin and Charlie. Uriah, who was born February 7, 1863, passed away at the age of two. Emma Frances, 418 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY born March 15, 1865, married Fred Beelman and they have a son, Chester. Catherine, born January 5, 1871, became the wife of William Bender and the mother of seven children: Essel; Bessie; Mildred; Mabel, who died at the age of two years ; and triplets who died at birth. Ida, who was born July 19, 1877, married Charles Wentz. Frank, the youngest of the family, born February 7, 1880, married Miss Bertha McCormick and they have one daughter, Gertrude Irene. The family were reared in the tenets of the Lutheran faith and still adhere to its doctrines. Politically Mr. Kotz is a firm democrat, though he is not prominent in party affairs. He enjoys pleasant fraternal relations with the Masons and with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having passed the third degree in the former and being past grand in the latter. E. BIGLOW. E. Biglow, a pioneer in the utilization of the rich clay deposits in the vicinity of New London and the founder and promoter of an important industrial enterprise, is now extensively and successfully engaged in the manufacture of brick and tile. He was born upon a farm in Lorain county, Ohio, June 28, 1845, and is a son of Daniel and Martha (Stranahan) Biglow, natives of Ohio and Connecticut respectively. The parents were identified with the farming interests of Lorain county, where E. Biglow was reared to agricultural pursuits. Acquiring hi, early education in the country schools at the same time he received thorough and ample training in farm work as through the summer months, he assisted in the labors of the fields. He continued to engage in farming until the age of twenty-eight years, when he opened a general store in Westview, which he conducted for nineteen years. That enterprise proved a profitable and growing cne, but at the end of six years his health failed, owing to the close confinement of the store and he partially withdrew from mercantile pursuits to give his time and energies to brick and tile making, taking up that line of manufacture in Columbia, Lorain county. He started the business on a very modest scale, but by close attention, unremitting energy and earnest study of processes of manufacture and the adoption of practical methods, he prospered as the years went by, continuing at that location until 1897. By keeping in touch with everything concerning his line of business, he came to know of the wonderful clay deposits at New London and foresaw great possibilities there. Removing to this place in 1897, he established his business in a small way, paying thirty-five hundred dollars for the land and taking up the manufacture with five employees operating one kiln. At that time his son, E. 0. Biglow, was old enough to join him and together they have built up from this humble beginning a business which is one of the important industries of the county and of which New London has every reason to be proud. They row employ fifty men, operate eight kilns and have made many improvements in their plant. They have erected a fine plant equipped with the most modern machinery and there is a constant and growing demand for their products, including tile and brick. Their output is sent to many states, being shipped to the eastern seaboard, to Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina. 419 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. E. BIGLOW 420 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 421 They also have a very extensive trade in northern Ohio and the indications are that the business will constantly increase for it is founded upon a safe, substantial basis and because of its owner's broad experience and keen discernment. E. O. Biglow, the junior 'partner, is an only child. He acquired a good preliminary education and then attended Baldwin College at Berea, Ohio, after which he joined his father in business. He is energetic, wide-a-wake, alert and enterprising and both he and his father, are popular with their employes, of whom their treatment is ever just and fair. E. O. Biglow was married in 1899, to Miss Ida King, a daughter of Dr. King, of New London. They have three children, Irena, Ernestine and James Otis. E. O. Biglow is a thirty-second degree Mason, having thus attained high rank in the Scottish Rite. While devoting their energies largely to their business interests, which are continually growing in volume and importance, the Biglows, father and son, take an active part in public affairs and have always iven earnest support to those independent office seekers whose course seems to ,Anise loyal and valuable service rather than strict party allegiance. They are men of high ideals in relation to public life and also in their business connections. They have 'never regarded their employes as a part of a system of machinery or business, but have looked upon them as individuals whose co-operations, assistance and good will can be won and maintained through just treatment and appreciation of reliable service. All who know of their business prophesy for it a successful future and prosperity is well deserved by them for both, father and son are genial, unassuming men of true worth and with good business ability. THE W. H. GARDNER GRAIN & MILL COMPANY The W. H. Gardner Grain & Mill Company, of Bellevue, Ohio, is an enterprising concern that has put three brands of flour upon the market : Roller King, patented ; Electric Light, a straight flour ; and White Rose, which is a first clear. W. H. Houle is the president of this concern; W. H. Gardner the vice-president and general manager ; and E. F. Lienhard, the secretary and treasurer. These men, with the addition of George Busch and D. Calhoun, also constitute the board of directors. The mill which they started and maintain has a capacity of three hundred barrels daily and employs a force of twenty-five hands. Since its organization the company has made good its claim to existence, and gives promise of continuing success in the future. W. H. Gardner, the general manager, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, November 22, 185o, a son of Joseph and Sarah (Slanker) Gardner. His father was born in 1826 and died in 1854. He was a carpenter by trade and was the father of three children : one who died in infancy ; C. D., of Canton, Ohio; and W. H. The mother, who was born three years after her husband, is still living at the advanced age of eighty. W. H. Gardner lived in Wayne county until 1869, attending the public schools there and learning the milling business. At the age of seventeen he had his first experience as a miller, when he was put in charge of 422 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY a small mill at Burton City, Wayne county. From there he went, m 1869, to Olney, Illinois, where he was connected with the mill business. A year sufficed to prove to him that Wayne county, Ohio, was more to his liking, so he returned to Wooster, where he worked in the Brick Mill. In the spring of 1875 he went to Pittsburg, where he continued at his trade. After two years, he came to Bellevue, where he was in the employ of Higby & Company, until his marriage in 1889, when he located on his father-in-law's farm in Seneca county, Ohio. For four years he lived there, following farming, after which he returned to Bellevue and bought a fourth interest in the mill with which he is still connected, paying thirty-five hundred dollars for his share. This was on the 7th Of January, 1890, and his partners were William McLaughlin, W. H. Kern and W. P. Collins, The undertaking did not win its expected success, and Mr. Gardner, realizing that he had lost five thousand dollars in one year severed his connection with the company, in November, 1891. Thereupon he entered in the grain business with W. H, Kern on the Wheeling railroad, under the firm name of Kern & Gardner, conducting their operations from the cars. Later on they built an elevator on the railroad and leased another at Parkertown. As the business prospered they built one at Flat Rock and another at Omar, south of Bellevue. In 1897 Mr. Gardner purchased Mr. Kern's interest and sold a quarter interest in the business to Mrs. Addie S. Heimbach and another quarter to E. F. Lienhard. The firm then became known as W. H. Gardner & Company. In March, 1904, a stock company was formed and incorporated under the laws of Ohio as the W. H. Gardner Grain Company, with a capital stock of seventy-five thousand dollars. In June, 1904, the corporation bought out the Bellevue Grain Company which owned elevators at Bellevue and Colby. In April, 1905, the company obtained possession of the McLaughlin & Biebuiher elevator at Franks, at the same time increasing their capital stock to one hundred thousand dollars and changing the style of the corporation to The W. H. Gardner Grain & Mill Company. In June, 1909, they leased the mills at Norwalk, known as the Globe Mills, which they are rebuilding and installing with the latest and best machinery, the demand for Roller King flour being so great that it was necessary to increase the facilities to take care of the demand. Mr. Gardner is a man of pronounced business ability and the success of the firm is due in no small measure to his efforts. On the 24th of February, 188o, he was united in marriage to Miss Helen Alice Currin, a daughter of George and Harriet Currin, and they have become the parents of one daughter, E. Gertrude, who was born December 26, 1883. Emil F. Lienhard, the secretary and treasurer of the company, was born in Zurich, Switzerland, January 16, 1862, a son of Heinrich and Rosina Lienhard, The father was born in 1832 and died in his forty-first year but the mother, on the other hand, is still living at the advanced age of eighty-eight. There were five children born to this couple: Rosina ; Louisa, deceased ; Heinrich ; Emil F. and Carl, who died in 1873—the year of his father's death. Emil F. Lienhard attended the schools of Switzerland and after completing his education traveled throughout the principal countries of Europe. At the age of twenty he came to the United States, desiring to enter the regular army, but as he was unable at that time to speak English he was refused. His purpose was not changed, however, and after spending a year in working in Philadelphia, he acquired the requisite knowledge HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 423 of the language and in 1882 was enlisted as a soldier. At a large number of western posts he served with honor, and on August 21, 1893. was discharged. During the World's Fair at Chicago, he was employed as correspondent and in the secret . Service with the Columbian Guards. When the Fair closed he came to Wayne county, Ohio, where he lived with his wife's parents. On the 16th of October, 1894, he came to Bellevue, entering the employ of Kern & Gardner. His services proved of such worth that when the present company was organized he was asked to assume the duties of secretary and treasurer. On the 1st of September, 1893, Mr. Lienhard was united in marriage to Miss Alta A. Smith, a daughter of Nathan W. and Rebecca Smith, of Wayne county. One child, Grace R., has been born to them. Fraternally Mr. Lienhard has relations with the Masons. He is also a member of the German Aid Society and belongs to the Association of Cleveland Commercial Travelers. In religious matters he gives his adherence to the Lutheran church and is both a good churchman and a Christian. In the company of which he is secretary and treasurer he is also a stockholder, and his counsel, that of a responsible man of business, is always asked in matters of importance affecting the welfare of the company. STEPHEN M. YOUNG. Stephen M. Young, a representative of the Norwalk bar since 1878, has displayed in his practice in the courts an ability which has gained him a large client-age and connected him with much of the important litigation tried in the courts of the district. With a keenly analytical mind and laudable ambition to attain success, he has worked diligently and persistently for the enviable position which he now occupies. A native of Mansfield, Ohio, he was born March 27, 1848, and is a son of Downing H. and Angeline (Marvin) Young. On the paternal side he comes of Scotch-Irish ancestry, while in the maternal line he is of French ,and Holland Dutch ancestry. His mother was a lady of notable refinement and liberal education. The father, Downing H. Young, was a native of Virginia, and removing westward to Richland county, Ohio, there met and married his wife. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in Mansfield, practiced there until 1857, when he removed to Toledo, where he continued successfully in the practice of law for about four years. He next came to Huron county and for forty-five years was one of the honored representatives of the bar of Norwalk and county. In his family were eleven children, of whom Stephen M. was the eighth in order of birth. Four sons of the family were soldiers in the Federal army in the Civil war and A. J. Young died at Danville, Kentucky, while defending the interests of the Union. Another brother, Henry, was mortally wounded at Stone River, Tennessee, December 31, 1862, and died on the 3d of January, 1863. Samuel Young served throughout the entire war uninjured but died in 1868, from disease contracted in the service -and Howard Young was also at the front through the period of hostilities and was never wounded. Daniel and George Marvin, uncles of our subject, in the maternal line, were also enlisted soldiers of the Union army and 424 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY were wounded, while J. B. Ho:ward, the husband of his sister, died in Andersonville prison. When a mere boy Stephen M. Young went to Toledo, Ohio, where he remained until 186o and then became a resident of New Haven, Huron county. His education was acquired in the schools of Mansfield, Toledo and New Haven prior to entering Oberlin College, where he obtained his more specifically literary education. In 1867 he engaged in teaching school in Crawford county, Ohio, and subsequently became assistant in the public schools of Cincinnati, but on account of his health he abandoned that profession and turned his attention to insurance, representing the Merchants Insurance Company of Chicago at Shelby, Ohio. Later he was with the Underwriters Association of Philadelphia. All this time he devoted every possible moment, to the study of law and after mastering many of the principles of jurisprudence was admitted to the bar at Columbus in 1873, He first located for practice in Plymouth, Richland county, but after a brief period there passed removed to Bucyrus, Ohio, where he commenced practice in May, 1875. In October, 1878, he came to Norwalk and has since been numbered among the leading representatives of the Huron county bar. His practice is extensive and of an important character. He is remarkable among lawyers for the wide research and provident care with which he prepares his cases. At no time has his reading ever been confined to the limitations of the questions at issue. It has gone beyond and compassed every contingency and his legal learning, analytical mind, and the readiness with which he grasps the points in an argument, all combine to make him one of the leading lawyers of the Huron county bar. On the 29th of July, 1877, Mr. Young was married to Miss Isabella Wagner, and unto them have been born five children, Walburga, Henry, Don John, Stephen Marvin, Jr., and Isabella Wagner. In his political views Mr. Young is independent formerly affiliated with the republicans but now with the democratic party. He is conversant with the leading questions and issues of the day but without political aspiration for himself. His fraternal relations are with the Masons and the Knights of Pythias. Without invidious distinction he may be -termed one of the foremost men of Norwalk, standing for all that is progressive in citizenship and commendable in public and private life. A man of forceful character, he has left and is leaving the impress of his individuality upon the community. FRANK CAMPBELL. Frank Campbell is a representative of one of the old pioneer families of Huron county, where he has spent his entire life, so that he has witnessed much of the growth and development of this section of the state. His memory goes back to the time when all of the evidences of frontier life were here found; when the prairies were wild and uncultivated ; when the forests were uncut ; the streams unbridged ; and when deer and other wild animals roamed over the countryside. HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 425 He is now the owner of a highly improved and valuable tract of land of two hundred and seventy-six acres in Greenfield township, where he has made his home from his birth to the present time. He was born in one of the log cabins characteristic of those early times, his natal day being February 6, 1835. His parents were Lorenzo Q. and Betsy (Mather) Campbell, the former a native of Genoa, Cayuga county, New York, while the latter's birth occurred in Greenfield township, this county. About the year 1826, Hugh Argyle and Margaret (Mather) Campbell, the paternal grandparents, took up their abode in a log house on the farm where our subject now resides. The grandfather was named in honor of the Duke of Argyle of Scotland. On his arrival in this county, he purchased a farm of two hundred acres and, as only a half acre of the entire tract had been cleared, he set himself resolutely to the task of cutting down the trees and preparing the land for cultivation. He underwent many of the hardships and privations incident to the life of the early settler. There were no roads and he often went through the woods on horseback to Monroeville, following the blazed trail. After a time, his little cabin home was replaced by a substantial frame residence, which he erected. He served as deacon in the Presbyterian church at Steuben, Ohio, which he had assisted in erecting and of which he was a valued and prominent member. His demise occurred in 1854 and the county thus lost one of its most respected and worthy pioneer settlers, whose labors had contributed in substantial measure to the early development and upbuilding- of this section of the state. Lorenzo Q. Campbell, the father of Frank Campbell, was born in 1817 and was therefore a little lad of nine years, when he came to Huron county with his parents. The remainder of his life was spent in Greenfield township, this county, and he devoted his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits, in which he met with a most gratifying and creditable measure of success. He extended the boundaries of the home farm by additional purchase until it embraced two hundred and seventy-six acres of land and in 1861, built the commodious and attractive brick residence in which his son Frank now resides. He was highly esteemed throughout the community and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, called him to various positions of public trust. He was a republican in his political views and held all of the township offices, including those of constable and justice of the peace. His death, which occurred in 1894, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for he had gained an extensive circle of warm friends in this county during the long years of his residence here. His wife, who passed away when her son Frank was but two years of age, was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Horace Mather, likewise early settlers of this county. Both lie buried in the cemetery at Steuben. Mr. Campbell of this review had but one sister, Sitire, Who is now deceased. She was twice married and both her husbands, John H. Easter and Jesse Snyder, have also passed away. Frank Campbell began his education in a little log schoolhouse, later attended the district school, afterward further supplemented his education by a course in the Normal school at Milan and then for two terms pursued his studies in Hillsdale College at Hillsdale, Michigan. On putting aside his text-books, he turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits, with which line of activity he has been identified to the present time. He owns the old homestead farm which his 426 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY grandfather purchased on his arrival in this county and which has now been possession of the family for eighty-three years, and as the years have gone' he has brought the fields under a high state of cultivation and improvements, an nually gathering golden harvests which find a ready sale on the market. On the 26th of September, 1860, Mr. Campbell was united in marriage to Miss Martha J. Shourds, a daughter of Daniel and Mehitabel (Sears) Shourds, who made their way from the state of New York to Greenfield township, this county, when Mrs. Campbell was a little maiden of seven years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Shourds passed away in Greenfield township. They reared a family of eight children, namely : E. H. and Chester, both of whom are now deceased; Charlotte; John G., Ruth and Joseph, who have likewise been called to their final rest: le, sie ; and Mrs. Campbell. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Campbell, was born a daughter, Dell, who is now the wife of R. B. Fisher, an attorney of Sandusky, Ohio. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, Mr. Campbell has given his political allegiance to the republican party and is now serving for the second term as justice of the peace in Greenfield township, while for four years, he acted as constable and has also been a member of the school board. He is a prominent member of the Congregational church at Steuben and has served in various official capacities therein. Throughout his entire life, or for almost three-fourths of a century, he has made his home in Huron county and therefore few men have more intimate knowledge of its history or of events which have left their impress upon its annals. He is one of the best known and most highly respected citizens in the community and, by reason of his upright and honorable life, well merits the kindly regard and esteem which are uniformly accorded him. HUSTED EUGENE REED. Husted Eugene Reed is engaged in the poultry business on a farm of seventeen acres, located in Fairfield township, Huron county, and in this connection has become well known in this section of the state. He is a native son of this township, born September 2, 1846, of the marriage of Shadrock Hoyt and Sally (Roscoe) Reed, the former horn in Connecticut, November 19, 1809, and the latter in White Plains, New York, October 1o, t811. Their family numbered four sons and one daughter, namely 7 David H., Clarissa, Charles E., Aranson S. and Husted E. The last named was reared under the parental roof until he attained mature years and at the age of twenty-four years established a home of his own by his marriage in 1870 to Miss Ella Holloway, who was born January 29, 1849, a daughter of F. M. and Sibyl (Bassett) Holloway, natives of New York, but later they became residents of Hillsdale county, Michigan. Mr. Holloway became a very prominent man in political circles and for many years filled positions of trust and responsibihty, while in 188o he was candidate for governor on the democratic ticket. Mr. and Mrs. Holloway had four children, George A., Leroy F., Cyrus C. and Mrs. Reed. Following his marriage Mr. Reed settled in Hillsdale, Michigan, where he engaged in farming and in teaching, following the latter profession for about HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 427 ten years, part of the time being spent in Ohio. In 1877 he returned to Huron, his native county, and with the exception of two years spent in the city of Cleveland, has resided in the county to the present time, while since 1897 he has made his home in Fairfield township. For the past five years he has been engaged in the poultry business, owning a farm of seventeen acres, which he devotes to those interests. He makes a specialty of Barred Rock chickens and finds a ready sale on the market, where he demands good prices for the products of his farm. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Reed have been born three sons and three daughters : Jennie H.; Clara, the wife of George Page; Sibyl, the wife of Paul R. Lehmann ; Ralph, who wedded Mabel Rice ; Fred, who is in the service of the navy ; and Kent, who has departed this life. Mr. Reed has served as township trustee and as a member of the school board and his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Disciples church. He is a public-spirited citizen whom the people of Huron county look upon as an exemplary man and they are proud to call him their own. GEORGE W. RITZ. George W. Ritz is the owner of one hundred acres of very valuable farming land in Richmond township and his wife owns fifty acres more in the same township, where they make their home. Mr. Ritz was born in Erie county, Ohio, September 29, 1847, being a son of Fred William and Anna Catherine (Friermuth) Ritz, who belong to that class of worthy citizens that Germany has furnished the United States that are welcomed everywhere on account of their sterling traits of character. They were born in Germany, and Fred William Ritz was twenty-one when he came to the new world, while his wife was but six years old. The father escaped service in the army in his native land, not drawing a fatal number. and so he emigrated. Upon coming here, he located in Huron county, Ohio, and for the remainder of his life was a farmer, although he was a weaver by trade. The children born to him and his wife were as follows: George W., the eldest ; Catherine, who married George Litts and lives in Norwich township ; Mary, the widow of William Resh and a resident of Chicago, Ohio; Caroline, who married Morgan Clark and lives at Attica, Ohio ; John and Elizabeth, who were twins. Elizabeth married George Wolfe, and they live in Richmond township. Until he was seventeen years old, George W. Ritz attended the district schools of his neighborhood, and then began farming and has been engaged in that work ever since. He has lived in Huron county from the age of three years old, and remembers distinctly when the farm was all timber land, and he helped his father clear it off. Mr. Ritz was married December 31, 1871, to Mary Ann Resh, a daughter of Henry and Mary Resh. She had a brother Henry, and a sister Catherine, who married Wesley Sparks. By this marriage, Mr. Ritz had the following children : William H., who is the present township clerk of Richmond township ; Carrie E., who married Perl Wurtz and lives in Norwich township ; George Edward, John ; Albert ; and Gustavus. The wife and mother died in 1882. 428 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY On July 6, 1884, Mr. Ritz married Johannah Kleinknecht, a daughter of Jacob and Mary Kleinknecht, natives of Peru township, who had a family as follows: Carrie, who married Abraham Stahl and lives in New Haven township; Louise Barbara, who is deceased ; Elmer ; Greves ; John ; Frank ; Wilhelmina; William, who is deceased ; and Amelia. The children born of the second marriage of George W. Ritz are : Charles, Jacob, Louise, Amelia, Walter and Fred. Mr. Ritz has served as road supervisor and as school director, being elected on the democratic ticket. He and his wife belong to the Lutheran church and are interested in its good work. He is a man of considerable energy and has inherited from his German parents those habits of industry, thrift and economy which make for success. JAY WASHBURN. Jay Washburn, one of the leading farmers of Greenwich township, was born April 14, 1852, on the old homestead where he now resides, being a son of Henry G. and Ann Maria (Van Benschoten) Washburn, of whom extended mention is made in the sketch of his brother, Daniel S. Washburn. Our subject acquired his early education in the district schools of Greenwich township and later attended the normal at Milan, Ohio. He grew to manhood upon his father's farm, early becoming familiar with the duties which fall to the lot of the agriculturist, assisting in the general farm work and also in the care of the extensive stock which his father raised. On the 21st of June, 1873, Mr. Washburn was united in marriage to Miss Mary Brady, a daughter of David and Pamelia (Franklin) Brady, who were formerly from New York and came to Ohio in 1849. Although Mr. Brady followed farming in this state he had studied dentistry in his younger years and for many years practiced that profession to some extent in his own neighborhood, He was also an ingenious mechanic along many lines. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Washburn were horn five children, two of whom died in infancy, the others being: Howard, Myrtle and Etta. The daughters are still at home but the son was married September 9, 1905, to Miss Bertha Sutliff, of Greenwich township, by whom he has two children, Walter J. H. and Grace. Howard Washburn is now engaged in farming on the home place and is a natural mechanic of considerable ability, After his marriage Mr. Washburn located in Fitchville township, where he engaged in general farming and in the raising of fine stock. But in 1885 he removed to the old Washburn homestead in Greenwich township, where he has since resided, devoting special attention to the raising of thoroughbred cattle, both of the Hereford and Durham breeds, which command the highest price. The farm is one of the finest in the county, being well improved, fenced and tile drained, and supplied with good, substantial buildings. The land is under a high state of cultivation and produces excellent crops. For two years Mr. Washburn devoted considerable attention to the buying, of wool, and being a good judge of that article, met with success in the undertaking. 429 - PHOTO OF JAY WASHBURN AND FAMILY 430 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 431 In his political views Mr. Washburn is a republican and a most ardent sup' porter of the principles of that party. In the early days of the Patrons of Husbandry he became a charter member of that organization and was an active worker in the first grange ever established in Fitchville township, where he then made his home. At all times deeply interested in public affairs, his influence is exerted for good and he is recognized as one of the valued citizens of his community. For the past few -years he has been living practically retired, while his son Howard carries on the work of the farm and is proving an excellent and worthy successor of his father. Method is apparent in the conduct of this farm, all fields being platted and arranged so that the best results may be obtained from the labor expended. Closely adhering to a systematic rule of crop rotation, a close study is made of the adaptability of certain crops to certain soils. The stables and barns are all arranged with a view to convenience and are supplied with water. On this model, well kept farm there is a place for everything and everything is in its place, and a view of it is in itself a lesson in thrift, perseverance and industry. HARMON VON SEGGERN. Harmon Von Seggern, an up-to-date and progressive farmer and stock-raiser of Ripley township, Huron county, is a native of Germany, his birth there occurring on the 19th of January, 1861. He is a son of Dedrick and Mattie (Gold) Von Seggern, and a brother of Henry, Fred, Dedrick and Riche Von Seggern. He belongs to a family that, like many another that has come from across the water, sought the opportunities of the new world that advancement might be made in business lines and better advantages given to the members of the household. Harmon Von Seggern was a little lad of seven years when his parents made the voyage across the Atlantic and settled in Ohio, so that to the district school system of this state he is indebted for the educational advantages which he enjoyed. The time not devoted to his text-books was given to assisting in the work of the fields, and under the direction of his father, he early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil. He has always carried on general agricultural pursuits and his labors have been practical and therefore productive of good results. He is the owner of one hundred acres of farm land, the soil of which is very rich and fertile, responding to cultivation in abundant harvests. He also devotes considerable time to stock-raising interests, making a specialty of breeding horses, and both branches of his business are sources of gratifying remuneration, It was on the 14th of December, 1883, that Mr. Von Seggern was united in marriage to Miss Anna Shepard, who was born in Henry county in 1858. A daughter of D. L. and Maria (Hockman) Shepard, she is one of a family of nine children, the others being Jacob, Freeman, Marion, Austin, Edward, Elizabeth, Flora and Hulda. The grandfather of Mrs. Von Seggern on the paternal side was Martin Shepard, while her mother was a daughter of Joseph Hockman. As the years have gone by, the home of Mr. and Mrs. Von Seggern has been blessed 432 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY with eight children, namely : William, Hulda, Jacob, Austin, Bessie, May, Daniel and Grace. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, Mr. Von Seggern has given his allegiance to the democracy, and although horn across the waters, he has always been, loyal to the interests of his adopted country, doing all in his power to further the growth and development of the community in which he resides. Although he has occupied his present farm for only six years, he has nevertheless acquired many warm friends who entertain for him high regard and esteem. LAWRENCE ZIMERMAN. Lawrence Zimerman is one of the worthy citizens that Germany has furnished to Huron county. He owns and operates fifty-three acres of land in Sherman township and although he was formerly engaged in carpentering in 1903 he purchased this farm on which he located and is now leading the quiet life of a farmer. Mr. Zimerman as above stated, was born in Germany, his natal day being March 2, and the year 1853. His parents, Christopher and Elizabeth Zimerman both died in Germany, when our subject was a little lad of nine years. They had a family of ten children: Elizabeth, who is in Australia ; Rosina and Barbara, who still make their home in the fatherland; Christopher, who lives in Iowa; Magdelina, who resides in Germany ; George, who died in New York; Lorenz, of this review ; and three who died in infancy. Lorenz Zimerman, following the demise of his parents, made his home with friends in his native land. He acquired his education in the schools of that country and in early life learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for a number of years. He also did service in the German army. It was while still a resident of Germany that he was married in Monheim, June 24, 1878, the lady of his choice being Elizabeth Goelz a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Goelz. It was in the year 1881, that, foreseeing no future in the old world, and having heard and read a great deal about the freedom and opportunity for advancement in this country, Mr. Zimerman decided to emigrate with his wife to the United States. He had a sister, Mrs. George Hoener, living in Sherman township, Huron county, and he at once made his way to her home. He here resumed work at his trade and was connected with building operations until 19o3. In the meantime, he had carefully saved his earnings, so that he was justified in that year in making a purchase of land and accordingly became the owner of the tract of fifty-three acres on which he now makes his home. There were no improvements on the place when it came into his possession; but he erected a comfortable residence, a good barn and made other substantial improvements and now has a neat and well kept farm. He has now settled down to a quiet life on the farm, having abandoned his work at the carpenter's trade, and is meeting with success in his farming operations. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Zimerman have been born seven children, four sons and three daughters, namely : Henry, who wedded Nora Hammersmith, their home being near Bellevue and their family numbering one son, Carl ; Anna, the wife of Ed Hammersmith, who lives in Monroeville and who is the mother of three HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 433 children: AlfredMagdeline and Marian ; Peter, who wedded Miss Elizabeth Linder, by whom he has one daughter, Helen, and makes his home near Norwalk ; and John, Martin, Philomena and Celia, still under the parental roof. Mr. Zimerman gives his political support to the democratic party and has served as a member of the school board, but otherwise has filled no public office. He is a communicant of the Catholic church at Bismarck. Mr. Zimerman is well pleased with the progress he has made since coming to the new world and fully realizes the superior business opportunities here as compared with those in the old country. He possesses the German characteristics of honesty, industry and perseverance and today stand among the substantial German-American citizens of Huron county and Sherman township. COLONEL E. TEMPLER. One of the farmers of Huron county who has made a success of life is Colonel E. Templer of Greenwich township. He is a native of Michigan, his parents, Jonathan and Ann (Darrow) Templer, having come to Huron county in 1848, and after a short stay removed to Ingham county, Michigan, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Jonathan Templer was a carpenter by trade and a man of fine public spirit, judged by the fact that four of his sons enlisted in the Union army for the defense of Old Glory. He died in 1865, and his widow surviving many years, died in March, 1888. Their family of ten children were as follows : James, William, Mary, Nicholas, Diadama, Edgar, Fremont, Charles, Frank and Colonel E. Of these four did valiant service for the flag: Nicholas, who was wounded in battle and now resides at Mason, Michigan ; William and Edgar, who died of illness contracted in .service ; James, who survived the war and died at his home in Bay City, Michigan, in February, 1909, aged seventy years. The living members of the family are: Mary, wife of Solon D. Neely, of Mason, Michigan, who also was a soldier and wounded ; Nicholas, also a resident of Mason, Michigan; Diadama, now Mrs. N. W. Odell, of Olena, Ohio ; Fremont, of South Dakota; and Charles, of Fitzville, Ohio. Colonel E. Templer was born in Ingham county, Michigan, March 23, 1862. Well educated in the public schools of Norwalk, he completed his scholastic training at the Mason high school. He then took up the profession of teaching and for twenty years was know as one of the leading educators of Huron county, being for seven consecutive years at Olena. Later he took up farming and has for years been one of the prominent agriculturists of the county. His farm of one hundred acres is devoted to general farming and stock raising. Colonel E. Templer was joined in marriage January 1, 1884, to Miss Lura Burgess, a daughter of Egbert and Elizabeth (Strimple) Burgess, another of the worthy families of Huron county. The father was also a soldier of the Civil war and gave his life for the cause he loved. Mrs. Templer was the only child, and the mother still survives, living with her daughter. Four children constitute the family of Mr. and Mrs. Templer, all of whom bid fair to make a success in life. Merle C. was given a good education and is now superintendent of the 434 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY Central high school of Ruggles, Ashland county, Ohio. Charles is a student Savannah Academy, while Kenneth and Mildred are still under the home roof. Colonel Templer is a man of standing and influence in his home community and takes an active interests in its affairs. Township trustee for ten years, a number of years on the local schoolboard, and now a member of the board of education, he has strengthened the schools of the township by his experimental knowledge of the work to be clone therein. He is an Odd Fellow, belonging to Greenwich Lodge, No. 640, and a member of the Maccabees. He and his family are working Methodists, being a trustee of the church and a teacher in the Sunday school, of which he was superintendent for many years. Politics interest him only so far as casting an intelligent vote for republican candidates. The head of a refined home emanating a beneficent influence throughout the community, and a citizen whose ideals are a11 on an elevated plane, Colonel Templer is making a thorough success in life. FRANK M. ARNOLD. One of the many farmers of Ohio who have studied their acres and applied their own theories to agriculture and stock raising in general and have made a success is Frank M. Arnold, of Wakeman township. On May 20, 1853, he was born in Bristol township, Trumbull county, Ohio, a son of Samuel D. and Catherine (Kinnaman) Arnold, who came to Huron county in 1857, settling on a farm in Clarksfield township. After a long and busy life, the father passed away in 1903, but the mother is still living. Frank M. Arnold received his education in the district schools of Clarksfield township and learned the practical work of the farm under his father's efficient guidance. He married, March 15, 1876, Miss Mary C. Hand, the daughter of John G. and Clarissa (Fletcher) Hand. Her father was a farmer in Wakeman township, owning the farm where the Arnolds now reside. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold have two children : Ethel M., and Frank Merwil, both single and at home. After marriage, Mr. Arnold turned his attention to farming, locating in Clarksfield township, where he remained twenty-two years. In 1898, he came to Wakeman township, and, as above stated, located on the J. G. Hand place. Mr. Arnold studies his land and crop rotation, in a manner which never fails to bring forth fruit under his careful tilling, and he also engages in the breeding of fine "general purpose" horses and thoroughbred Chester White hogs, selling only for breeding purposes. His stock has come to such a high standard that he has quite a large custom. That our subject is well known as a public spirited, honest citizen is shown by his election to the offices of road supervisor and school director, both needing skill and tact in their handling. He always votes to keep the republicans uppermost and has never missed an election day, at the same time keeping up an active interest in local issues and stands for continued and substantial advancement in the community's affairs. He and his family are members of the Methodist church and unfailing in their attendance. HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 435 Mrs. Arnold believes in centering her first energies on the home, as her great interest in domestic and educational matters shows. She finds some time, however, to look about in a social way, and is highly esteemed by a large circle of close friends for her intelligence and refinement. The house, in which she is the moving power, is one of the few brick farm residences in Wakeman township. Its modern external architecture and convenient interior is in sharp contrast to her nearby girlhood home, built of logs in the usual old style way by her father when he came to this district. The present home, situated in the midst of grounds, which, like many other Wakeman township yards, knows as much of the lawnmower's ravages as the average suburban lawn, radiates hospitality and cheerfulness throughout the county. WILLIAM A. ROSE. There are few men who occupy a higher rank among the citizens of Hartland township or who merit in greater degree the respect, esteem and confidence of their fellow men, than does William A. Rose, whose high standing as a citizen has led to his appointment to various positions of responsibility and trust. A native of Ohio, he was born in Muskingum county on the 27th of February, 1857, a son of Alfred and Martha (Blaine) Rose, natives of New Jersey end Muskingum county, respectively. The paternal grandfather, Jacob Rose, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, while the maternal grandfather, Joseph Blaine, fought in the War of 1812. Both families were numbered among the early pioneer settlers of Ohio and were active in the affairs of the communities in which they resided. The father, Alfred Rose, was a carpenter by trade but took up the occupation of farming after his marriage. He passed away February 5, 1873, while his wife survived until July 18, 1904, their remains being laid to rest in Woodland cemetery at Norwalk. In their family were three children, as follows ; William A., of this review ; Mary A., the wife of Charles Dipple of Townsend township ; and John J., also residing in Townsend township. Amid the scenes and environments of rural life, William A. Rose spent the years of his boyhood and youth, and attended the public schools and later the Lebanon Normal College in the pursuit of his education. When not busy with his text-books, he assisted his father about the farm, early becoming familiar with the various tasks that fall to the lot of the farmer. He remained at home until after his marriage, when he purchased his present place which consists of one hundred and seventy acres of splendid farming land in Hartland township. He carries on general farming pursuits and has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation, annually reaping, rich harvests therefrom, while he also devotes considerable time to his stock interests, making a specialty of breeding thoroughbred Oxford Down sheep. He is a large breeder of this animal and exhibits extensively at various state and county fairs. Upon his farm stand substantial and commodious buildings and he has introduced all of the modern equipments and accessories which go to make up a model farm. He is a man who thoroughly understands his business, is intelligent, progressive and up-to-date 436 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY in the methods which he pursues, and by the exercise of his salient characteristics—industry, energy and perseverance—he is meeting with substantial success, ranking foremost among the prosperous and affluent farmers of the township. On the 16th of October, 1889, Mr. Rose was united in marriage to Miss Luella Miles, a daughter of Sylvester and Almira (Sherman) Miles, both of whom are representatives of old and well known pioneer families. Mr. and Mrs. Rose both attend the Methodist Episcopal church, of which they have at all times been liberal supporters. Fraternally, Mr. Rc se is a Mason, holding membership in East Townsend Lodge, No. 322, F. & A. M., and he is now master of the lodge and has filled all of the offices. He likewise belongs to Townsend Grange, No. 1392, Patrons of Husbandry, and has always been an active member of the grange, now serving as steward of the lodge. He has been a very prominent figure in local political circles, having at all times given stalwart support to the democracy, and he has ever kept well informed upon all current matters and his high standing in the community as a citizen led to his appointment by the county court as a member of the Huron county jury commission. Mr. Rose has likewise served on the democratic county committee for years and almost invariably is sent as a delegate to the county conventions. He has also been elected to various offices in the township, having been chosen in 1890 real estate appraiser for Townsend township. He is a member of the school board, the cause of education finding in him a warm champion. He is pre-eminently a man of affairs who is ever ready to lend his assistance to all matters which have for their object the material, political, intellectual and moral upbuilding and progress of the community, while his many excellent personal traits have gained for him a high place in the front ranks of Huron county's representative and valued citizens. He is an extensive reader, keeping in close touch with all of the topics of the day, while his wife is a lady of fine attainments who, having received her educational training in the Milan private school, was for some years prior to her marriage a very successful and progressive teacher. Both are people of true worth of character, prominent and influential in the community in which they reside, where they are well known for their charity and many good deeds. JOHN J. McMANN. John J. McMann needs no special introduction to the readers of this volume for he is well known in business and political circles of this community, his activity in the latter leading to his selection for positions of public trusts. A native of New York, he was born in Dutchess county, that state, October 13, 1855, a son of Jerre and Julia (Lowe) McMann. The father, a native of Ireland, left his home at the age of twelve years and from that time was dependent upon his own resources for a livelihood. He experienced many hardships and privations during die early period of his career, but never permitted himself to be overcome by any obstacles. By untiring perseverance and unfaltering industry, he learned the coopers trade and gradually worked his way upward until he became a large opera- HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 437 for in his line of activity. In 1864, he arrived in Chicago, where he engaged in his trade until 1871, when he came to Wakeman, where he spent the remain ing days of his life. He operated a large cooperage in this city and became very prosperous in his business enterprise. A man of great force of character, he possessed a strong personality, and was known throughout the community for his charitable and humanitarian traits. A man who acquired money easily, he gave liberally of his means to the poor and needy and no worthy person in distress ever sought his aid in vain, so that when he passed away on the 30th of September, 1898, his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. He was laid to rest in the Wakeman cemetery, while his wife still survives him. Their family consisted of five children, namely : John J., Jerre H., Richard, Margaret and William. A worthy successor of an honored father, John J. McMann acquired his education in the schools of New York, Chicago and Wakeman, and early became associated with his father in the mill business, taking complete charge of the mill after the demise of the latter. It is true that he became interested in a business already established, but in the controlling and enlarging of this enterprise, he has demonstrated the truth of the saying that success is not the result of genius, but the outcome of a clear judgment and experience. Some years prior to the death of his father, the supply of available timber for cooperage purposes became depleted and the mill was converted into a bent wood and general sawmill, which John J. McMann has since continued to operate. He has extended his interests to include the lumber and contracting business and his capable control of his combined enterprises is bringing to him a marked degree of success. He possesses untiring energy, is quick of perception, forms his plans readily and is determined in their execution, and his close application to business and his excellent mannagement have brought to him the substantial prosperity which is today his. Not only in business circles, however, has Mr. McMann figured prominently in the affairs of Wakeman, but he is equally well known in political circles and is deeply and helpfully interested in all public matters. He is a stalwart democrat and during the two terms of President Cleveland, served as postmaster 0f Wakeman. His election to this office came to him through no solicitation on his part, but as the expression of the appreciation of his sterling qualities and high standing in the community on the part of his fellowmen. He also served as township clerk for several terms and proved an excellent official in both capacities. Something of his personal popularity and his high standing among all classes in this community is indicated in the fact that in 1908 he was nominated for county treasurer in a county that was strongly republican and in spite of that fact that the republican majority ran from eight to eighteen hundred, Mr. McMann was elected by a majority of four hundred and eighteen votes over his opponent. Mr. McMann was united in marriage on the 17th of October, 1878, to Miss Ella J. Harris, a daughter of Andrew and Rebecca (Harrison) Harris. The father was engaged in the mercantile business in this city for many years and still survives at the venerable age of eighty-four years, his mind remaining as clear and his interests in public affairs as keen as in former years. His wife, however, passed away January 10, 1899. The home of Mr. and Mrs. McMann 438 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY has been blessed with one son, Clifford H., who is associated with his father in business, while they also lost a child who died in infancy. Mr. McMann is a member of Gibson Lodge, No. 301, F. & A. M., and also holds membership with the Royal Arch Masons, and has filled all of the offices of the organization. He likewise belongs to the Lumbermen's Association of the Hoo-Hoos. Public- spirited to a marked degree, he is a stalwart advocate of public improvements along all lines, believing that therein lies the secret of the future growth and development of the community. He is fond of outdoor sports and seeks recreation and relaxation from business cares in occasional hunting and fishing trips. Giving due attention to the varied interests which develop a well rounded character, he belongs to that useful and helpful type of men whose ambitions and desires are centered and directed in those channels through which flow the greatest and most permanent good to the greatest number. FRANK C. HERSHISER. Industry, thrift and perseverance when combined will result in success in almost every line of business, and especially is this true in farming, for the soil responds to work put upon it in good crops that insure a steady income. Many of the most sensible and substantial men of Huron county, Ohio, are engaged in agricultural pursuits, and among them is Frank C. Hershiser, who resides upon his fertile farm of one hundred and four acres, while his son and he own another tract of one hundred and four acres adjoining the homestead on the west. Mr. Hershiser was born in Caroline City, Seneca county, Ohio, December 19, 1854, and is a son of Peter M. and Catherine (Person) Hershiser, Peter M. Hershiser came to Seneca county from Pennsylvania in 1836, while his wife who was born in Keystone state was brought t0 Ohio by her parents when a little girl. Both a miller and carpenter, he worked at those trades, but for the last thirty years 0f his life he was engaged in farming, and in 1864 he bought fifty acres of land which is a p0rtion of the present farm of Frank C. Hershiser. When his country had need of his services, he responded by enlisting in Company H, Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry under General Thomas and served during the last year of the conflict. His only injury during this time was the loss of the end of one finger. In May, 1907, this most excellent man was called to his last reward, when he was in his eighty-second year, to join the wife who had died thirty years before, in 1877. Four children were born to them but none survived childhood but Frank C. While securing an excellent district-school education, Frank C. Hershiser learned the carpenter's trade from his father, and worked at it during the summer months until he was married. When he became the head of a family, he began farming and has continued to follow that occupation ever since with considerable profit. In November, 1877, Mr. Hershiser married Mary B. Miller, a laughter of Thomas and Eliza (Stone) Miller, farmers of Richmond township. Mr. Miller served in the same company during the Civil war as did Peter M. Hershiser, and he too proved himself a loyal soldier. Mr. and Mrs. Miller had three children, 439 - PHOTO OF PETER M. HERSHISER 440 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 441 of whom Mrs. Hershiser was the eldest, the others being: Samuel F., and Amanda, who became the wife of D. A. Frye and now lives in Richm0nd t0wnship. Mr. and Mrs. Hershiser have a family which is as follows : Edna, who married William H. Crabaugh, a young man who served in the Philippines ; William T., who married Pearl Frost ; Chester P.; Ralph C. and Sam P. For four years Mr. Hershiser was township treasurer, and he has also served as road supervisor and sch0ol director, being elected 0n the republican ticket. In each case he discharged the duties pertaining to the office efficiently and acceptably. Fraternally he belongs t0 Attica Lodge, N0. 597, I. 0. 0. F. The family are important factors in the United Brethren church, of which they are members, and in it and throughout the neighborhood generally they have many friends. who esteem them and appreciate their true worth. WILLIAM R. BELL. Among the residents 0f Ripley township, who are seeking their fortunes along the line of agricultural pursuits, is William R. Bell, one 0f Ohio's native sons, his birth occurring in Richland county on the. 24th of January, 1841. His parents were Nathaniel and Nancy A. (Reynolds) Bell, of whom the former was a minister of the Methodist church and a som of John and Hannah (Finch) Bell, who were also the parents of Robert, Jesse, John, Enoch, David, Joseph and Stephen. The mother was a daughter of William Reynolds and a sister of Rachel, Sarah, Benjamin, William, John, Shadrick and George. In the family of Nathaniel Bell and his wife were: Jesse, William, John, Harriet, Hannah and Jane. William R. Bell was reared in Huron county and at the usual age was sent as a pupil to the district schools. He early became familiar with the tasks that fall to the lost of the country lad, for the periods of vacation were devoted to the work of the fields. After laying aside his text-books, he remained under the parental roof for a number of years, continuing to give his father the benefit of his assistance in the operation of the home farm. He had scarcely attained his majority when Civil war was declared and, responding to his country's call for troops, joined the Union army as a member of C0mpany D, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry. With this command he went to the front and saw much active service, participating in several hotly contested battles, among which were the engagements at Perryville and Lancaster. He received honorable discharge on the 13th of March, 1863. After returning home, Mr. Bell took up the occupation of farming on his own account and has continued to direct his energies along that line to the present time. He carries on general agricultural pursuits, owning a farm of ninety-three acres' in Ripley township, and every thing about his place indicates that he is in touch with the modern spirit of progress which is manifest in agricultural lines. His close application and good management have gained for him a creditable degree of success, and he ranks among the representative farmers of the community. 442 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY It was on the nth of January, 1904, that Mr. Bell was united in marriage to Miss Cloe Jeney, a daughter of Abram and Sally (Griffin) Jeney and a sister of James, George, Warren, Charles, Cornelia and Mary Jeney. They are members of the Methodist church, in the work of which they are deeply and helpfully interested, while fraternally, Mr. Bell is connected with the Masonic body, He gives stalwart allegiance t0 the principles of the republican party which in his opinion are best adapted to conserve the public welfare. For a time, he served as first lieutenant in the state militia, and is a loyal, public-spirited citizen, at all times upholding those things which are matters of civic virtue and civic pride. GEORGE. E. PROSSER. George E. Prosser, alert, energetic and enterprising, has won his success by persevering effort directed by sound and intelligent judgment. He now figures in the business circles of New London as one of the organizers and the cashier of the Savings and Loan Banking Company. He represents one of the old families of the county, his birth having occurred in New London township, January 7, 1859. His father, William S. Prosser, was a native of Yates county, New York, and in his boyhood days, removed westward to Ohio with his father, Abraham Prosser, who brought his family to the Western Reserve and purchased a large tract of land from the government at the usual price of 0ne dollar and a quarter per acre. It was covered with a native forest growth, the trees standing in their primeval strength, but with characteristic energy he reclaimed the land from the wilderness, developed the fields, made a home and spent his remaining days there. His son, William S. Prosser, succeeded him in the ownership and in the cultivation of the farm which he continued to operate for many years, but in the evening of his life retired from active !business cares and spent his remaining days in New London. A splendid citizen, ever loyal to the best interests of the community and equally faithful in friendship and all the relations of private life, he enjoyed in unqualified measures the confidence and good will of his fellowmen. He was no office seeker but a stanch republican and ever maintained a stalwart position in support of his honest convictions. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Johnson, was a native of the state of New York and during her girlhood' days accompanied her parents on their removal to Hartland township, this county, when that district was still regarded as a frontier region. The family of Mr. and Mrs. William S. Prosser numbered three children, the daughter, Mary Amanda, who married Hastings H. Hart, being now deceased, while the brother of our subject is Spencer Prosser, a resident of Norwalk. In retrospect one can see George E. Prosser as a school boy, pursuing his early education in the country schools and when he had mastered the branches of learning therein taught, be continued his studies in the n0rmal school at Milan and in Oberlin College. He was identified with educational interests for three years as a teacher, after which he became superintendent of schools at Milan but, withdrawing from that field of labor, he concentrated his energies upon general agricultural pursuits, purchasing the J. R. Sutton farm in New London HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 443 township. This he carefully cultivated for seventeen years and still owns the property. He was systematic in its management, practiced the rotation of crops, closely studied the c0nditions of the soil and brought forth rich harvests of those cereals best adapted t0 climatic conditions here. Mr. Prosser was called from private life to public office in 1891, when he was elected county commissioner and the trust rep0sed in him was well merited, his record in office being a most creditable one. In 1896, he was appointed by Governor Bushnell as a delegate to the Farmers National Congress, which met in Indianapolis, being chosen as one of the representative agriculturists of the state. He continued in the office of county commissioner until 1901, and retired from the position as he had entered it—with the confidence and good will of all concerned. He helped to organize the Savings & Loan Banking Company in 1900, at which time he was elected cashier and has since continued in the position, his associate officers being : Charles McClare, president, and S. F. Blackman, vice-president. While carefully controlling his affairs, he has at the same time been more or less active in political circles and in official connections. In 1894, he was elected secretary of the state board of county commissioners and served until 1898. He has been an active republican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and his advice and counsel have frequently been sought by his party.For many years, he served as treasurer of New London township. Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Prosser was married on the 31st of January, 1883, to Miss Anna Truxell, a native of Peru, Ohio, and a daughter of S. S. and Catherine (McFarland) Truxell. Their three children are : Minnie Louise, the wife of A. I. Adamson ; Dean T. ; and Georgiana. Mr. Prosser is an exemplary Mason, belonging to the lodge and chapter at New London and to Norwalk Commandery, K. T. He also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and to the Methodist Episcopal church, and these associations are indicative of the rules which govern his conduct and the principles whereby his actions are directed. Public opinion accords him a place of prominence not only by reason of the success he has achieved, but owing also to the straightforward business methods he has followed and the public-spirited and patriotic citizenship which he has displayed in connection with all affairs of general moment. J. A. WHEELER. J. A, Wheeler, a retired farmer and business man of Greenfield township, makes his home in Steuben, Ohio, which was his place of birth. His paternal grandfather, Rev. John Wheeler, was one of the historical characters of Greenfield township. He was born in New York state, was ordained a minister of the Baptist church, and came to Ohio in 1819, settling in the northwest corner of Greenfield township. Those were primitive days and parishes and parishioners were few and scattered, so that the minister was often compelled to make long journeys, covering as much as three weeks on horseback, to hold religious meetings and to preach the gospel. He was very strict, especially in his observance of Sunday, and it is told that during one of his absences a large bear stole one of 444 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY his hogs, but as the day was Sunday, the sons of the family refrained from an attempt to kill the intruder, knowing that their father would care less for the loss of one of his hogs than that a gun shot had desecrated the sanctity of the Sabbath. Rev. John Wheeler was the first preacher in the Baptist church at Steuben and was all his life connected with the congregation of faithful there. He had in fact helped to build the churchly edifice in 1842, and his grandson has in his possession the record book of all the meetings and all the members from that early time to the present. Rev. John Wheeler was twice married. By his first wife he had eight children: Sylvester, John H., Benona, Aaron, Calvin, Elmira, C. B., and Bradley. All were members of the Baptist church of Steuben and all have departed this life. C. B. Wheeler served in the war of the rebellion and was quartermaster of the Third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Calvin Wheeler, the father 0f J. A. Wheeler, was born in New York state, January 19, 1818, and was one year old when his father came to Greenfield township. Here he lived, pursuing his education in an old log school house, and engaging in farming in his early youth. He filled many of the township offices, was for a time trustee, and was a strong republican. To the Baptist denomination he gave his religious allegiance and was ever accounted one of the pillars of the church at Steuben. In February, 1842, he was married to Miss Mary Richards, who bore him twelve children: Nancy J., born January 15, 1843, died March 18, 1868, the wife of E. T. Trimner ; Agnes, born March 9, 1844, married M. M. Parsons, of Shiloh, Ohio ; D. M., born December 29, 1845, died March 27, 1901; B. R., was born November 20, 1847 ; C. J., born July 31, 1850, died February 2, 1908; C. B., was born January 3, 1852 ; Jesse and J. A., twins, were born January 22, 1854. The former was a prominent business man of Chicago, Ohio, and died October 2, 1909. Alice and Alfred, also twins were born January 18, 1857. Alice has been married twice, first to Henry Bronson and second to C. J. Barber, of Chicago, Ohio. By her first marriage, she had one son, Charles Richard Bronson, who was born January 8, 1886, and died January 1, 1896. Lillis, born November 14, 1861, married Dayton Green, now deceased. Una. Bell, born October 3, 1863, married E. K. McMorris. Mrs. Wheeler was born in New York state, January 27, 1821, and died March 22, 1868, leaving her husband to survive her for twenty-eight years, his death occurring May 27, 1896. J. A. Wheeler was born in Greenfield township, January 22, 1854, and has always been a resident of this county. He attended the district schools of Greenfield and then the business colleges in Sandusky and Republic, Ohio. At first he worked for his brother D. M., in a general store at Steuben, and in 1875, went into business for himself in the same town, where he conducted a large general st0re and was successful in his operations until 1887, when, on Decoration Day, his whole st0ck was consumed by fire. He lost a large sum of money as well, but was able t0 open a store in Chicago, Ohio. This he conducted until 1889, when he sold his interest to his brother and sister and returned to the farm. In 1886, he bought from Levi Platt, the farm on which his son now lives. The deed which Mr. Wheeler holds is 0nly the third that has been given for that farm. On the 15th of October, 1873, Elder Root pronounced the words that united Mr. Wheeler and Miss Charlotte Ashley in marriage. She is a daughter of HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 445 Dennis and Lurna (Bliss) Ashley, of Greenfield township, and has become the mother of five children. Charles N., born July 28, 1874, married Miss Mary Lowery, of Chicago, Illinois, which is his home and they have four children: Marshall, Calvin, John A., and Robert P. Charles N., is a graduate of Oberlin college and is at present political editor on the Chicago Inter-Ocean, and during the past presidential campaign, traveled through the country with Taft and Bryan in their private cars. George M., the second son, born to Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler, was born November 11, 1875, and now lives at Chicago Junction, Ohio. Mary L., born November 8, 1877, married Robert E. Campbell. They live at Chicago Junction, Ohio, and have one child, Winona. J. A., Jr., born May 9, 1885, lives on his father's farm. He married Miss Maud Robinson and they have one son, Van. Ruth, born July 5, 1892, lives at home. In 1908, Mr. Wheeler bought a home in Steuben, where he now lives in retirement. He has been a man prominent in township affairs, was elected county commissioner in 1891, holding the office six years, and has filled nearly every other office within the gift of the people of Greenfield. He is a stockholder and one of the board of directors of the Home Savings Banks, 0f Chicago, and of the local telephone Company. Fraternally, he is a Knight Templar, Mason, and has been a conspicuous figure in Masonic circles, belonging to Norwalk lodge, No. 18. In the Baptist church his grandfather established he is active also, attending its services and contributing to its maintenance. In short, Mr. Wheeler is a man, who with many years still before him, can look back on the past with gratification, assured that lie holds the good wishes of his friends and neighbors. JAY E. SMITH. Among the men who enjoy the support and respect of the citizens of Huron county, is Jay E. Smith, who entered upon his duties as auditor of this county, in October, 1909. Fitchville, which was the place of his birth, has of recent years been his home, and here he has made a reputation as a fine business man, imbued with high principles and of sterling integrity. His parents, Thomas J. and Johanna (Van Vecten) Smith, come from families wh0 were among the early pioneers 0f Fitchville township, the Smiths, perhaps, being slightly the older settlers. Mrs. Smith is the daughter of Dr. Van Vecten, who for a number of years practiced his profession in this township, and also carried on a substantial mercantile business at the time when Fitchville was a prominent and prosperous trade center. He later removed to New London, which was the scene of his labor, until his death, which occurred a few years ago. Thomas J. Smith also became a resident of New London, where he was engaged in the butcher business for a number of years, and then removed to Michigan, where he died in June, 1899, at his home in Grand Rapids. His widow has since married Preston Palmer, of Fitchville township. Jay E. Smith was born in Fitchville township, January 2, 1861. He received his training for life at home and in the schools of this county, working on the home farm when his time was not given to his lessons, and as he grew up finding 446 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY employment on the farms of neighbors. He was able after a few years to attend the Cleveland Commercial College, and at the age of twenty-six began his career as a teacher. To this work he devoted himself for seventeen years, the schools of Fitchville township profiting by his services for fifteen years, the other two years of his professional activity being spent in the state of Michigan. He was a popular and progressive instructor and his withdrawal from the teacher's profession was regarded with sincere regret. In 1904, Mr. Smith came to Fitch-vine and engaged in the farm implement business, which he gave up in the summer of 1909; preparatory to assuming his new duties as aduitor of Huron county. In politics, he has always been a democrat and has for years taken an active part in party and public matters. Although living in a strong republican township, he has served three years as justice of the peace and for two years as a member of the school board. In 1899, he was the democratic candidate for member of the Ohio legislature from Huron county, and the following year was the county's choice for state senator, but was defeated f0r the nomination in the district convention. In 1902, he was again the democratic candidate for county recorder, but as in 1899, when he sought election as a representative, he was defeated because of the strength of the republicans in Huron county. He was not destined to defeat, however, in 1908, when he was nominated for what is probably the most important office at the disposal of the people of this county, that of auditor. The republicans still boasted of a twelve hundred majority over the democrats, yet in the election 0f November, 1908, Mr. Smith received two hundred more votes than his opponent and entered upon his duties the 1st of October, 1909. On the 10th of June, 1888, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Ruth A. Lazell, a daughter of Joseph and Mary A. (Burras) Laze11, of Fitchville township, and seven children have been born to them, four now living, namely: Ruby, Donald, Annabel and Ruth, while John D., Rhoda and L. D. have passed away. The incident of Mr. Smith's election to an important office is an indication of the attitude of the people, not only of his township, but of the county as well, toward him. He is recognized as a splendid citizen, whose business methods are unquestioned and whose high principles can be relied upon. That he will administer his affairs to the best of his ability there can be no doubt. He is a member of Floral Lodge, F. & A. M., of New London, and is active in Masonic circles, and those that have opportunity to see him at closer range, his fraternal brothers, hold him in even higher esteem than those who are compelled to know him oniti from a distance. FRANK CARPENTER. While Frank Carpenter is one of the recent arrivals in this county, he is a native son of Ohio and during the period of his residence in Chicago Junction, has made for himself many friends and gained a prominent place in public regard. He was born in Seneca county, Ohio, January 16, 1882. His father, William HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 447 Carpenter, was also born there. The Carpenters are of an old New York family, but representatives of the name removed westward and settled in Seneca county, when it was a pioneer district. There William Carpenter was born and reared and having arrived at years, of maturity, he wedded Mary Cory, a native 0f Ohio. Frank Carpenter was educated in the schools of Seneca county and is a graduate of Heidelberg University of the class of 1904. He studied law in the office of his brother, Ray Carpenter, a prominent lawyer of Seneca county, and after passing the required examinations, was admitted to the bar in 1906. In January of the following year, he located for practice in Chicago Junction and in May of the same year, was appointed city solicitor. He is building up a good practice for he has demonstrated his ability in successfully handling intricate legal problems and is a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity. A young man of high character, respected and esteemed by all who know him and displaying marked ability in professional lines it seems that a bright future is before him and that his further success is only a matter of time. MARSDELL E. REEVES. Among the enterprising and pr0gressive farmers of Ripley township who are meeting with success in their agricultural pursuits, is Marsdell E. Reeves, the owner of one hundred acres of fine land upon which he has resided for eleven years. Born on the 12th. of April, 1850, in Fitchville township, Huron county, he is a son of Elias and Mabel (McIntire) Reeves, and the youngest in a family of ten children, the others being; Herman, Munson, Cordon, Mary, Mehitabel, Charlotte, Rosette, Marsden and one who died in infancy. Marsdell E. Reeves spent the period of his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of the country lad, acquiring his education in the district schools and during the periods of vacation assisting his father in the work of the home farm. He early became familiar with the tasks that fall to the agriculturists and upon attaining his majority wisely chose as his life work the occupation to which he had been reared. He began business life on his own account as a farm hand, working by the month, and was thus engaged for many years. Being desirous, however, of some day owning property of his own, during the intervening years, he labored with unceasing industry and untiring perseverance, carefully saving the money which he received in return for his services, until eventually he had accumulated sufficient means with which to purchase one hundred acres of land in Ripley township, upon which he has since made his home. The farm has now been in his possession for eleven years, and during this period he has directed his energies toward its further improvement, having brought his fields under excellent cultivation. He has equipped the place with all modern conveniences and accessories for facilitating labor, while his business methods are progressive and up-to-date, characteristics which have been salient elements in his prosperity. It was on the 29th of March, 1898, that Mr. Reeves was united in marriage to Miss Anna Howard, who was born on the 1st of March, 186o. Her parents 448 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY were William Howard, born March 12, 1823, and Eliza (Case) Howard, whose birth occurred in 1829. The father, who served as a soldier in the Union army at the time of the Civil war: was a prominent figure in the community in which he resided and was familiarly known to many close friends as "Uncle Billy." He and his wife were the parents of the following children : Adeline, Wesley, Franklin, Edward, Anna, Willard, Marvin, Melvin, Sherman, Burton and Sarah, Fraternally Mr. Reeves is a master Mason and holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows,.in both 0f which bodies he is an active and prominent worker. He gives stalwart support to the republican party and although he neither desires nor seeks office f0r himself, is deeply interested in the affairs of the party and does all in his power to further its influence in the community and elect its men to the various offices. He is not only well known in agricultural circles of Ripley township, but is also a member of the Greenwich Telephone Company, better known as the Clinton Air Line. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which he has attained gratifying success that has come to him as the logical result of indefatigable energy and well directed effort. WILLIAM C. SCHEID. William C. Scheid, devoting his time and energies t0 the cultivation and improvement of his farm of ninety-five acres in Peru township and seventy-five acres in Sherman township, was born on this place on the 8th of December, 1861. His parents, John William and Catherine (Beilstein) Scheid, were both natives of Germany, the former born on the 9th of January, 1818, and the latter in 1826. In 1849, the father accompanied his parents on their emigration to the new world, the family home being established in Peru township, Huron county, Ohio, where both the grandfather and the grandmother of our subject passed away. John William Scheid, the father of William C. Scheid, continued to make his home in Peru township, until called to his final rest on the 30th of November, 1903, being successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career. He assisted in the organization and erection of the Lutheran church in Peru township and served as one of its elders for a number of years. His wife, who had made the journey to the new world in company with her sisters and brothers, was called to her final rest in 1885. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely : Elizabeth, who is the wife of Charles J. Heyman and resides in Lyme township ; August, living in Peru township; Henrietta, who makes her home with her sister, Mrs. Hass, in Sherman township ; William C., of this review ; Catherine B., residing in Sherman township, who is the wife of George C. Hass ; and L. H., of California. In pursuit of an education William C. Scheid attended both the district and German schools and early in life became familiar with the duties and labors which fall to the lot of the agriculturist through the assistance which he rendered his father in the cultivati0n of the old homestead farm. It it a highly improved and valuable tract of land comprising ninety-five acres and here Mr. Scheid has lived from his birth t0 the present time, his agricultural interests proving a good 449 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM C. SCHEID