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GRANGER TOWNSHIP.

JOHN AMERMAN, Granger. Albert and Ellen (Peterson) Amerman, parents of this gentleman, were natives of New Jersey. The former was born in 1784, and the latter in 1791. They were married in 1813, and are the descendants of old and respected Holland families who came to America in Colonial times. Mr. Amerman, in early life, learned the shoemaker's trade, but after his marriage he devoted his entire time to farming and stock-growing. In 1826. he removed from his native State to Long Island, where he remained some eight years, and then came to Sharon Township, Medina Co., Ohio, where he and wife passed the remainder of their days. They were the parents of three children—John, Peter; and one that died in infancy. Mr. Amerman departed this life in 1863. and his wife in 1843. John Amerman was born Sept. 6, 1819, in Somerset Co., N. J. He was raised upon a farm, and received the benefits of a common-school education. He was united in marriage with Miss Emeline Castner April 28, 1847. She was born in New Jersey Aug. 21, 1823. Five children were the fruits of this union, viz.: Albert S., born Jan. 7, 1849; Edward E., Nov. 27, 1850; Edith J.. July 20, 1856 ; John M., Oct. 24, 1852, and died March 21. 1853 ; John C., born April 5. 1859, and died Nov. 4. 1861. Albert S. is single and resides in Dakota Territory ; Edward E. married Miss Ada A. McMillan Dec. 31. 1873, and now resides in Nebraska ; Edith J. married Mr. Henry Hawks Nov. 26, 1874. He was born June 4, 1853. They have one child —Ethel E., born May 16, 1879. Mrs. Amerman died March 27. 1870. Mr. Amerman has

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been a resident of Granger Township since 1848. He owns 200 acres of well-improved land, and is one of the successful farmers and wool-growers of the county. He is a man of retiring disposition, broad and liberal in his views, but firm in his convictions of right and wrong. Politically, he is a Republican.

BENJAMIN BURT, P. O. Granger. Daniel and Hannah (Trafton) Burt, parents of this gentleman, were born, reared and married in Massachusetts. During the early settlement of Ontario Co., N. Y., they were among the first to go there. Here, in 1813, Mr. Burt died, leaving his wife and eight children to mourn his loss. Some five years later, when quite a number of persons from Ontario Co. came to settle in Medina Co., Ohio, John and Daniel Burt, sons of the above gentleman, came to the county and began the improvement of a piece of land in what is now Granger Township, which they had traded for the same year. In February, of 1819, the mother with the family, started for the new home in Ohio, arriving at their destination on the 5th of March the same year. The two sons had been out the year previous and built a log cabin, into which the family moved on their arrival. The house had no windows or doors, and to make matters worse, the day after they arrived there was a heavy snowstorm. The mother, however, supplied this deficiency by hanging quilts at the doors and windows, which in a measure kept out the cold until warm weather set in. Benjamin Burt was born in Ontario Co., N. Y., Feb. 14, 1804, and was but 15 years of age when the family came to Ohio. He started a day or so before the family, with the cows, and expected they would overtake him in a short time. This, however, they did not do, for he arrived the day before the family at their new home, having walked almost the entire distance. In 1820, John Burt built a double log cabin where the village of Grangerburg now stands, and the next year returned to New York, where he was married, returning to Ohio in the spring of 1822 ; his wife dying the same year that Benjamin went to live with him, the two brothers kept bachelor's hall for about eighteen months. Their house served the various purposes of a dwelling, a church, a tavern and a schoolhouse. John Burt taught school in the house in the winter of 1822, and quite frequently the scholars arrived at the schoolhousebefore the two brothers had their work done up. In this case the larger girls would assist in sweeping, washing dishes, etc. The year after their arrival in Ohio, Benjamin wanting a pair of shoes, and not having the money to purchase them, worked nine days at 25 cents per day for a man who obtained them for him by making a turn with a third party. In 1826, Timothy Wilder and wife came in a lumber wagon from New York, to visit their friends in Ohio. On their return, Benjamin Burt and his mother accompanied them, and spent some time visiting friends in New York and Massachusetts. Mr. Burt remained in his native State some years, working by the month. He was united in marriage with Miss Parmelia Hatch, Dec. 31, 1829. She was born in Ontario Co., N. Y., in 1812. In the spring of 1830, he returned to Ohio, bringing his wife with him,. Eben Bissell and wife being also in the company. On their arrival at Cleveland, it was necessary that one of the men should go to Granger and procure teams to bring the women and goods to that place. The distance was about thirty miles, and Mr. Burt walked the distance in a half-day, and this when the country was almost an uninhabited wilderness, filled with logs, groups of underbrush, ravines, etc. The furniture of their new home was of regular pioneer order. They used a chest for a table until a more fashionable article could be procured. When they had company, two chests were placed together, one being much lower than the other. In this way began Benjamin Burt and wife, who have been well and favorably known to the people of Medina Co., for over half a century. They are the parents of three children, viz.: Ozro Seymour, born Jan. 31, 1831 ; Charles Milton, born Oct. 9, 1833, and Lucretia E., born Oct. 3, 1837. These children are all married and the heads of families. Ozro S., was married Nov. 11, 1854, to Miss Mercy A. Shaw. She was born in Summit Co., Ohio, Oct. 7, 1834. They have a family of eight children—Elroy C., Bion U., Diana, Minnie, Benjamin, Elbridge, Grace E. and Mary G. After marriage and until 1867, this gentleman was engaged in farming, dairying and dealing in live stock. At this time, he purchased a half-interest in a store in Grangerburg, of his brother-in-law, although he remained on his farm. In 1870, he purchased the entire stock of goods and has since conducted the business

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alone. He carries a large stock, and is doing a large and steadily increasing business. In 1868, he and James McMillen erected a large cheese manufactory at Grangerburg, having a manufacturing capacity of 1,300 pounds daily. It is now, and ever has been since built, in active operation, during the cheese-making season. Besides the above property, he owns a nicely improved farm of 250 acres adjoining the village. He is an intelligent, progressive gentleman, and has held all the township offices in the gift of the people. He has been for some years a member of Medina Lodge, No. 76, F. & A. M. Charles M. Burt, like his brother, was raised upon a farm. He attended the common schools of the neighborhood until he was about 17 years of age, when he attended school at Oberlin, Ohio, for some time, and then came home and worked for his father until about 24 years of age, at which time he and his brother's Ozro S. purchased the old homestead of 170 acres. which they farmed in common for two years, when he purchased his brother's interest. He continued to deal in real estate and make additions to the home farm until he owned 400 acres in one body. In 1871, he went to Wadsworth and purchased the Exchange Hotel, which he owned and run for about eighteen months and then traded it for one-fifth interest in the Eureka Lead Works of that place. After about two years, he disposed of this and he and Mr. H. Z. Chandler purchased 2,700 acres of pine lands in Michigan, paying $30,500 for the same. This he now owns, together with 234 acres of land in Granger Township, and a valuable and nicely improved home property in Wadsworth, which he now makes his home. He was united in marriage with Miss E. A. Hills, March 28, 1859. She was born in Granger Township in 1841. They have two children—Elno O. and Abbie J. Lucretia E. Burt married Mr. James Hopkins, and is now residing in Akron, Ohio. Thus it will be seen that the three children of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Burt are well-to-do people, and have profited by the examples of sobriety, economy and industry set them by their most worthy parents. Benjamin Burt has devoted nearly all his life to agricultural pursuits, never seeking the publicity of office, although he has filled many township offices with much credit to himself and lasting benefit to those for whom he labored. He held theoffice of County Commissioner six years, and was a member of that body during the period when the new court house was built, and was the only member who voted against the remodeling of the old house. He has always acted independent of sects and denominations, favoring everything known to be right, and promptly opposing everything known to be wrong. He and sons are stalwart Republicans, and have been since the organization of that party. He is now in his 78th year. and, with his silver locks and tardy steps, is quietly awaiting " the last of earth." His wife is nearly 70 years of age.

M. C. CODDING, Granger. The name of Codding was originally Coddington, and their progenitor was from England. Some years after the Plymouth Colony had established itself on this continent, there came to the colony one Sir William Coddington, from England. He was descended from the nobility of his native country, but, through misfortune. had lost his property, and, to recuperate; had come to America. He was a man of much more than ordinary ability, and of very decided views regarding religion and men. He held that infant baptism was not necessary to salvation, and that every man had a right to worship God as he saw fit. He was pronounced by the Council a heretic, and an order issued that he should be sent back to England. Before this could be executed, however, he had left the colony, gone to Rhode Island and joined the Williams Colony. Here he remained the rest of his life, becoming, at last, Governor of Rhode Island, and one of the wealthiest men in the colony. All the Coddings now in the New World, so far as known. are descendants of this gentleman, and the coat of arms used by himself and family is still to be seen in the old State House at Newport. George Codding, the father of our subject. was born in Bristol, Ontario Co.. N. Y.. March 31, 1800. He was reared upon a farm, receiving but a limited education. In 1821. he left his native State and came to Granger Township, this county. He had traded for Lot 28 before leaving home, and, upon his arrival in the township, he at once began preparing his land for tillage. His marriage with Miss Jerusha Spencer occurred Nov. 22. 1822. She was born in Seneca. Ontario Co., N. Y., Aug. 18, 1802, From this union there were seven children, viz., Myron C., Spencer F.. Nancy T.. Albert T., Harriet M.. William E. and Lucy A. Mrs

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Codding died May 1, 1841. On the 18th of May, 1842, Mr. Codding was united in marriage to Eliza Johnson, who was the mother of one child—Helen L. This lady died June 20, 1861. Mr. Codding departed this life April 15, 1845. Although never aspiring to political prominence, he was honored, during his lifetime, with a number of positions in Granger Township, and was, for a number of years, Captain of a company of militia. He was of a retiring disposition, devoting his entire lifetime to agricultural pursuits, the temporal and spiritual welfare of his family, and the promotion of the best interests of the community in which he lived. Myron C. Codding was born upon the farm he now owns and resides upon, March 1, 1824. Although his educational advantages are somewhat limited, yet he has become a fair scholar in the English branches, and has held, during the last decade. many positions of honor and trust in Granger Township. He was united in marriage with Miss Phoebe H. Ganyard Sept. 13, 1848. This lady was born in Granger Township Feb. 8, 1828, and is the daughter of Festus Ganyard, Esq., one of the first settlers of the township. From this union, four children were born, viz., Albert T., George, Harriet E. and Lena R. Mr. Codding has, for a number of years, been engaged in farming, stock-raising and dairying, in all of which he has been very successful. Although he never learned any trade, he readily turned his hand to anything required to be done, especially excelling as a wood-workman. He has been a remarkably industrious and hard-working man, very frugal in his habits, and has accumulated quite a competency by his regard for these manly virtues. He is a substantial and useful member of the community, and has been quite liberal in contributions for charitable and educational enterprises. He owns a nicely improved farm of 132 acres ; is a stanch Republican in politics, and a consistent member of the M. E. Church. Medina Co. would be much better off had it more such men as M. C. Codding.

JASPER A. CODDING, farmer ; Remson's Corners ; is a native of Granger Township, where he was born in 1819 ; he is the oldest person born in the township now living ; his parents were John and Hannah Spencer Codding ; his father was a native of Ontario Co., N. Y., born May 2, 1797 ; his mother was a native of Connecticut, they were united in marriage in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., and came to Granger Township in March 1818 ; his mother died in the township ; his father subsequently sold his farm and removed to Medina, where he departed this life Oct. 20, 1866, after a stirring, eventful life, regretted by all who knew him ; he served in active public life for a great many years, representing all of the township offices, and serving as Justice of the Peace for many terms ; he was well posted in law and business, and was largely employed by his townsmen, to transact their business and legal matters ; he represented his district in the State Legislature, and subsequently was chosen State Senator, offices which he fulfilled with ability and honor ; he was chosen as one of the Commissioners for the appraisement of the Western Reserve school lands, and at one time was a Presidential Elector. In his early manhood, John saved the life of a neighbor named Moore, who was bitten by a rattlesnake, by applying his mouth to the wound and drawing the poison out ; it was an office of great danger, and illustrates the nobility and courage of his nature ; his children now living are as follows : Jasper A., Wilder M., a resident of Wadsworth Township; Elsie A. McFarland, living in Summit Co.; Charles G., a resident of Medina. Our subject passed his early life upon his father's farm, teaching school several winter sessions, until 25 years of age, when he was united in marriage to Miss Phoebe J. Huntley April 17, 1844 ; she was born in New York State in March. 1827 ; her father was John Huntley, an old resident of Medina Co. Mr. and Mrs. C. have been blessed with the following children : John S., living in Portage Co.; Frank D., a resident of Knox Co., Ill.; Emma L. Perrin, living in Granger Township. After his marriage Mr. Codding engaged in farming for a year and a half in Summit Co., and then removed to Granger, where he has since resided ; he located in 1850 one-half mile east of Remson's Corners, where he now lives ; he has 63 acres of fine improved land ; he is a useful and respected citizen of the township, having served the township for six terms as assessor, and always taken an active interest in schools and township matters.

SAMUEL CUTTER, farmer ; P. O. Remson's Corners ; is a prominent citizen of Granger Township, he is a native of Columbia Co.,

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Penn., where he was born in 1801 ; his parents were Samuel and Mary (Cole) Cutter, natives of New Jersey, they were pioneers of Holmes Co., where they located in 1819, and residents of that county the remainder of their days. Samuel when a youth went to Wooster and learned the blacksmith's trade, which occupation he followed there for a number of years. While a resident of Wayne Co., he was elected to the office of Sheriff of the county, and served for two terms ; at the expiration of his last term of office he farmed in Wayne Co. for three years, and then removed to Homer Township, Medina Co., where he resided for nine years upon a farm. In 1861, he removed to his present location in Granger Township ; he has a farm of 125 acres, located in the northeastern portion of the township, well improved. He was united in marriage in 1831, to Miss Deborah Sprague, she bore him two sons, Henry and Charles—both now deceased. Henry was in the service nearly three years and Charles 100 days ; his wife died in Wooster. Mr. Cutter was married to a second wife, Miss Mary Mason, Jan. 9, 1840 ; she is a native of New Hamphire, and was born in 1804, they have two children living. Harvey, he is married to Miss Ann Baker, a native of Michigan, they have four children—Frank, Charles, Israel and Mary ; Harvey resides with his parents; Ellen Young, another daughter living in Kansas ; Mr. and Mrs. Cutter are both members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Cutter, while out hunting in Chatham woods, in the night of Nov. 13, 1833, was a spectator of the great meteoric showers which occurred at that date ; he relates that the sight was one of grand and indescribable splendor, and lasted from 12 o'clock until daybreak.

EBENEZER COMSTOCK ; P. 0. Granger ; was born Oct. 20, 1820, in Montville, New London Co., Conn. He is the son of Ebenezer and Hannah (Stimpson) Comstock, both natives of Connecticut. By this union there were the following family of children : Mark, Jeremiah, Ebenezer, Mary S. and Elizabeth A. Mr. Comstock's first wife was a Miss Turner, who was the mother of ten children, viz.: Elisha, Henrietta, Nancy, Ficha, Desiah, Lucretia, Catharine, Artlissa and two not named. The father served his country in the navy during the war of the Revolution ; he was taken prisoner by the British, but escaped and joined Gen. Green's army. He died in Connecticut in 1835, and his wife in Medina Co., Ohio, in 1864. For thirteen years after the death of his father, the subject of this sketch followed the life of a sailor ; h served in all capacities, from a common sailor to commander and owner of a vessel. In 184E he came to this county, which he has since made his home. He was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Krieble May 2, 1856 ; she wan born in Pennsylvania March 9, 1838. They have had four children, three of whom are yet living, viz.: Eunice, William and Frank ; the one deceased was named Job. Mr. Comstock began life as a poor sailor boy, and has made what he now possesses by his own exertions He owns a well-improved farm of 153 acres, near the center of Granger Township. He has in his possession a number of old deeds that were made to his grandfather for Connecticut land during the reigns of George the Second and Third, of England. In politics, he is a stalwart Republican. He is a well-informed man, of broad and liberal views, generous to a fault, but firm in his convictions of right and wrong. The county would be much better off had it more such men as Mr. Comstock.

DANIEL FLUENT, farmer ; P. O. Weymouth ; was born in Steuben Co., N. Y.. in 1814. His parents were Jonathan and Mehitable (Dudley) Fluent, natives of Maine, where they were married, subsequently removing to New York State and then to Ohio, locating in Steuben Co. Our subject passed his early life in that county ; at the age of 20, he came to Hinckley Township, where he took up 50 acres of land, remaining there about eight years ; he then moved to Granger Township, where he has since resided. His farm consists, at present, of 88 acres, located in the northwest corner of the township, and is fine farming land and well improved in every respect. He was united in marriage in 1837, to Miss Alice Conant, a daughter of Timothy Conant, of Hinckley Township ; she was born in Richfield Township, Summit Co., July 6, 1821. They have six children, as follows : Louisa Hall, living in Wayne Co.; Jennie Williams, a resident of Cleveland; Margaret Smedley, living in Weymouth ; J. K. Polk, Viola and Edgar B. Mr. Fluent has devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits, and is spoken of as a firstclass farmer and a prominent and respected citizen.

GEORGE M. GANYARD, Granger. About the year 1750, two brothers, James and Peter

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Ganyard by name, embarked from France, their native country, in a merchantman owned by them, for the West Indies, intending to establish themselves in the mercantile business on the Island of Hayti. They must have been quite wealthy, for they owned several vessels, and, after establishing themselves in business, opened trade. with the colonies of North America and their mother country. Both had received good educations in their native country, but they soon found that to do a successful business with the people of the New World, would necessitate their becoming more proficient in their English education. To this end, Peter, who was at this time a minor, was sent by his older brother to America to attend school, while he remained in Hayti to look after the business. The younger brother was supplied with plenty of money and admonished to improve his time and talents acquiring an English education, and learning the customs and habits of the Colonists. Quite the contrary did he do, however, for, after a time, he ran away from school and went to what is now the State of Connecticut, where, at Killingworth, he apprenticed himself to a shoemaker. While here he became acquainted with Miss Esther Merritt, to whom he was married in 1760. The elder brother not hearing from Peter, made diligent search and inquiry, but could learn nothing of him. He had, in the meantime, become Governor of Hayti, and was very wealthy. After about fourteen years, the Captain of one of his vessels hearing that there was a shoemaker by the name of Ganyard, in Killingworth, Conn., determined to visit the place and see it' it was not the long-lost brother. Arriving at Killingworth, he visited the shop of the shoemaker and began questioning him in regard to his ancestors. The younger brother stoutly denied his identity, and it was only after the earnest entreaties of his wife and the Captain, that he confessed and expressed his willingness to go to Hayti and see his brother. The younger brother's family, at this time, consisted of himself, wife and five children. He was placed in charge of a large sugar and cotton plantation belonging to his brother, where he remained some years. At last he became tired of' his occupation, and the year 1772 found himself and family at their old home in Killingworth, and he working at his trade. It may be as well to state here that James, theelder brother, died of yellow fever, and that his wife returned to France. They had no children, and it is said that all the Ganyards in America are descendants of Peter Ganyard, the shoemaker. The older brother's property was nearly all destroyed during the rebellion on the Island, in 1772 and 1773. The younger brother went there after order was restored, and managed to obtain about $3,000, which, on his return, was invested in a farm of 300 acres in Litchfield Co., Conn. Here he passed the remainder of his days, as did his wife. They were the parents of ten children, one of whom, James, being the grandfather of our subject. He was born Jan. 14, 1772, and married Miss Phoebe Hatch, who was born at Saybrook, Conn., April 26, 1767. They were married in Hartland, Conn., Nov. 30, 1792, and began housekeeping in a portion of Peter Ganyard's house in Litchfield Co., Conn. They were the parents of quite a large family, of whom appropriate mention will be made in another part of this work. In 1798, James Ganyard went to what was then known as the " Phelps and Gorham Purchase," in the Genesee country, New York. Liking the country, he returned to Connecticut, and, in January of the following year, removed to that country, which, at the time, was considered the very verge of civilization. He purchased 90 acres of land of Simeon Hatch, in North Bristol, Ontario Co., and began its improvement. He was a hard-working man, and, in a few years, had a comfortable home for himself and family. In October of 1817, Mr. Ganyard, in company with Elizur Hills, Anthony Low and Burt Codding, came to Ohio to view Town 3, Range 3, of the Western Reserve. After viewing the land, and being satisfied with soil. climate, location, etc., they returned to New York and contracted with Gideon Granger, the proprietor of the land, for three-fourths of the township, at $4 per acre, giving their lands in Bristol, N. Y., in part pay, and securing the balance by giving mortgage on their lands in Ohio. This mortgage, in after years, was a great drawback to the settlers of the township, and caused many of them considerable expense and anxiety. After the agreement was made, and before the article was signed by the purchasers, Mr. Ganyard transferred his right to Mr John Codding, reserving only to himself such lands as he had paid for. This is the reason why his name never appeared on any of the origi-

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nal records of the company. He came to Granger Township in 1819, and located on Lot 35, where he ever afterward resided. He died Dec. 20, 1844, and his wife March 2, 1840. They are buried on the old home farm, and a humble stone, bearing their names, is the only memorial which marks the spot where rest two of the first pioneers of Granger Township. Their son, Festus Ganyard, was born March 27, 1795, in Litchfield Co., Conn. When his parents removed to New York, he was but a child ; his early education was quite limited, but in later years he acquired quite a knowledge of the sciences ; he became quite proficient in botany and history. and was often called on to prescribe for the sick of the neighborhood. He attended his first term of school in East Hollow, Ontario Co., N. Y.; in this school he was taught his A B C's by Miss Jane Giddings ; she was a sister of the Hon. Joshua R. Giddings, so well known to the people of the United States. In after years, Mr. Ganyard often spoke of this school and of Miss Giddings as being a model teacher. Festus Ganyard came to Granger Township one year prior to his parents, and began improving the land owned by his father. He was united in marriage with Miss Betsey Burt, March 27, 1822 ; she was born March 13, 1802. They were the parents of three children, viz., Harriet, Phoebe and George M. Mr. Ganyard, during his life, held many positions of honor and trust ; he assisted in the organization of civil government in Granger Township ; it was he who, with others, formed the Congregational Church of Granger, the first Christian organization in the township, and he and his wife continued worthy and exemplary members of this church until their deaths. Mr. Ganyard was a man of much more than ordinary ability and natural powers of mind. He was of a retiring disposition, and did not meddle much in political affairs, yet he held decided opinions, which he did not fail to express at the ballotbox. He did his part as a faithful father, husband and Christian. He died March 22, 1868, and his faithful wife and companion Nov. 10, 1866. He and wife were buried in the cemetery on the old homestead, upon land cleared by his own hand when he was a young man. George M. Ganyard, the subject of this sketch, was born upon the farm he now owns, Nov. 7, 1834. His youth and early manhood werepassed assisting his father upon the farm. He was united in marriage to Miss Mary B. Haight, Feb. 22, 1864. She was born in Sharon Township, this county, Sept. 12, 1844. They have two children, viz., Eudosia M. and Alida H. Mr. Ganyard owns a nicely improved farm of 220 acres, near the center of the township. He has devoted his energies to dairying and agricultural pursuits, and has been very successful in his business enterprises. He has never sought the publicity of office, although he has filled several township positions, at the solicitation of friends. He is a stanch Republican, and a man of broad and liberal views regarding men and religion. On taking a retrospective view of the Ganyard family, it can well and truly be said that they have most emphatically been a pioneer family. Coming, as they did, from the middle classes, their progenitors brought with them those qualities and virtues which render them not unworthy of a place among a people who were to subdue a wilderness, maintain their liberties, found a new State —in fact, create a new world.

M. W. GANYARD, Granger ; is the son of John N. and Lucinda (Turner) Ganyard, the former a native of Bristol. Ontario Co., N. Y., and the latter of Canfield, Mahoning Co., Ohio. Mr. Ganyard had previously married Miss Elizabeth Turner, by whom there was one child—Turner N. There was one child by his second marriage—Marshal W. In 1819, Mr. Ganyard came to Granger Township. this county, settling on the farm now owned by the subject of this sketch. He was a hard-working man, and devoted the greater portion of his life to agricultural pursuits, although he worked at coopering to some extent in an early day. He was a good and useful man, and contributed liberally to all religious and educational enterprises. He had great musical ability, and could perform on almost any kind of an instrument. He died Jan. 3, 1861, and his wife Nov. 10, 1876. M. W. Ganyard was born June 14, 1835, and passed his youth and early manhood upon his father's farm, receiving a common-school education. When about 18 years of age, he took a trip through Canada and the East. From this time on until he was about 25 years old, he traveled during the fall and winter months, his summers being passed in assisting his father upon the farm. He was united in marriage with Miss Roseltha E. Waters, Dec. 24,

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1868. She was born in Monroe Co., Mich., Dec. 13, 1845. From this union one child was born, Flora F. Mrs. Ganyard died June 26, 1875. Mr. Ganyard was married to Miss Kittle G. Bailey March 1, 1877. She was born in Canada East, Oct. 29, 1855. They have one child, John N. Mr. Ganyard has, for a number of years, made a specialty of raising fine sheep, and has done much to better this class of stock in the county. He is a Republican in politics, and liberal in his views regarding men and things. He owns 148 acres of as well improved land as can be found in Granger Township. Although he never learned any trade, he readily turned his hand to anything required to be done. He is a substantial and useful member of society, and one of the foremost agriculturists and wool-growers in Medina County.

R. O. GANYARD. farmer ; P. 0. Remsen's Corners ; was born in Granger Township in September. 1841. His parents were James and Sarah (Low) Ganyard, natives of New York and pioneers of Granger Township, locating in 1818, where they were residents for the remainder of their lives. James died in March, 1875, and his wife in September, 1869. A more complete record of their residence in the township appears in another portion of this work. Our subject remained upon his father's farm until 29 years of age. In September. 1867, he removed to his present location, where he has 82 acres of rich land, the most of which is improved. He was married, in September, 1862, to Miss Caroline Crocker. She was born in Montville Township in November, 1841. and is a daughter of Jeremiah Crocker, an old and respected resident of the county. now living in Granger Township. Mr. and Mrs. Ganyard have three children—Mary, William and Linn. Mr. Ganyard is a young and enterprising farmer, and is a trusted and esteemed citizen. He has taken an active interest in the educational affairs of his district, and has served as Director and Clerk.

SEYMOUR A. GANYARD, Granger. This gentleman was born in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., April 24, 1830. He is the son of Seymour G. and Esther (Donaldson) Ganyard, both of whom were natives of the Empire State, where they were married and resided until 1834, when they removed to Bath Township, Summit Co., Ohio. They were the parents of two sons Seymour G. and William N. Mr. Ganyard has always been engaged in agricultural pursuits, and owns one of the best farms in Bath Township, upon which he now resides. He is a man of decided religious and political views, and a useful and influential member of society. His wife departed this life Nov. 21, 1869. Seymour A. passed his youth and early manhood assisting his father upon the farm. He was educated in the common schools of that day. Aug. 25,1859, he was united in marriage to Miss Almeda Griffin. This lady was born in Copley Township, Summit Co., Ohio, Feb. 1. 1833. From this union there were two children, viz., Louisa and Sherman. Mrs. Ganyard died Jan. 2, 1873. Mr. Ganyard was united in marriage to Miss Alzina Wolcott Dec. 30, 1873. She was born in Granger Township, this county, Oct. 18, 1838. There is one child by this marriage—Eldo I. Mr. Ganyard. when 21 years of age, was given a colt by his father. This he sold for $70, and put the amount at interest, and for the next eight years worked by the month and year upon a farm. He was careful of his earnings, and at the expiration of that time, had accumulated quite a little sum, which he invested in land. He now owns 112 acres of land, which is well improved. He is a Republican in politics, and a consistent member of the Disciples' Church.

HOEL HATCH, farmer ; P. O. Remson's Corners ; whose portrait. with that of his wife, appears in this book, is. with Benjamin Burt and John McCloud, one of the oldest settlers in the township. He was born in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., March 10. 1803. His father, Nathan Hatch, was born in Connecticut Feb. 19, 1769. His mother's maiden name was Lucy Wilder ; she also was a native of Connecticut, and was born Sept. 14, 1776. They were married in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., Nov. 9, 1796. They emigrated to Ohio, and located in Granger Township in October, 1818, locating on the western town line, where they took up 700 acres of land. Nathan died Jan. 10. 1850 ; his wife Feb. 17, 1858. Hoel, at 20 years of age. started out in life for himself. His father divided up his land among the children, and he received as his share 137 acres, located on the center township road. He was united in marriage. Dee. 26, 1827, in Granger Township, to Miss Saloma Treeman. She was born in Canandaigua, N. Y., Oct. 8. 1805. Her parents, Jere-

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miah (born Aug. 23. 1782) and Hannah (Gillett) Treeman (born Feb. 20, 1787), were natives of Connecticut and pioneers of Granger Township, locating there in 1818, and residents of the township the remainder of their lives. After his marriage, Hoel resided upon his farm for twenty years. In 1856, he 'removed to the farm where he now resides. He has 80 acres of finely improved land, some of which is the richest soil in the township. Their children are as follows : Nathan F., born July 9, 1830 ; he served all through the rebellion, and for several months after its close among the Indians. He now resides in Kansas. Emily E., born July 13, 1832, married Oct. 7, 1852. to Uriah F. Skinner. They removed to Iowa in 1853. where he died .July, 1873, and she followed him October, 1873. They left five children in good circumstances—Hannah A., born Aug. 10,1834, living at home ; Milton L., born June 15, 1837, now a resident of Litchfield Township ; Nancy S., born April 18, 1839, married to Thomas Sylvester, living in Granger ; Lydia L., born April 23, 1842 ; Jeremiah J., born April 5, 1844, a resident of Granger Township ; Julius C., born Feb. 20, 1846, now a resident of Sharon Township. Mr. Hatch has been prominently identified with the growth and development of the township, and contributes a great many incidents and dates to the township history. He was one of the first Abolitionists of the township. A very pleasant incident in the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Hatch was the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of their married life, upon which occasion Mr. H. was presented with a valuable and beautiful gold-headed cane, and his wife several pieces of silverware, by their children. Their years sit lightly upon them, although they are passing into the " sere and yellow leaf." They are located in a pleasant and comfortable home in a community where they are respected and beloved, and where the record of their wellspent lives can never be effaced.

JOHN S. HATCH, SR., deceased; was born in Ontario Co., N. Y., June 7, 1810. His father, John Hatch, was a native of Connecticut, and one of the pioneers of Ontario Co. John S. passed his youth and early manhood in his native State, receiving the benefits of a common-school education. He was united in marriage, Feb. 19, 1832, to Miss Laura E. Parsons, a native of the Empire State. where she was born Sept. 3, 1806. The year following their marriage, they came to Medina Co., Ohio, purchasing the land now owned by Mrs. Hatch, in Granger Township. They went to work with a will, and erelong were very comfortably situated. They had a family of six children, viz. : John S. (whose biography appears in this work), Laura A. (wife of Ira Bennett, of Montville Township), Martha P. (wife of Arthur Crane, of Sharon Township), Altha L. (wife of Edward Woodard, of Sharon Township) and Lydia N. and Timothy W. (single, and living with the mother). Mr. Hatch died Oct. 31, 1873, of paralysis. He was an intelligent, industrious man, and one whom every one respected and loved. His wife survives him, and resides upon the old homestead in Granger Township. Timothy W., son of the above gentleman, has always remained at home. He is a young man of ability and energy, and owns a nicely improved farm adjoining the home place. He is a member of the Republican party, a friend to education and all enterprises that tend to build up the community in which he lives or benefit his fellowmen.

JOHN S. HATCH, JR., P.O. Granger. This gentleman was born in Ontario Co., N. Y., Jan. 14,1833. He is the son of John S. and Laura E. (Parsons) Hatch, both natives of the " Empire " State, where they were married and resided until 1834, when they came to this county, loeating in Granger Township, where they ever afterward resided. They were the parents of six children—John S., Laura N., Martha P., Lydia N., Timothy W. and Altha. Our subject was raised upon a farm, receiving the benefits of a common school education. Mr. Hatch is of a mechanical mind ; even when a boy he would seize every opportunity for using whatever tools he could obtain, notwithstanding he was greatly discouraged in their use by his father, who took no interest in that line of industry. He began, however, at 16 years of age, to work at carpentering in a small way, and has for over thirty years, with the exception of some slight interruptions, worked at his trade. He was economical and industrious, and as fast as he earned money would invest it in real estate. He now owns 290 acres of well-improved land, which he has obtained by his own exertions. His marriage with Miss Mary F. Tallman occurred Dec. 6, 1860. She was born in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., June 26, 1840. By this marriage there were six children—George

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C., Florence M., Sarah K, Robert W., Nellie and John S. Mrs. Hatch died Aug. 11, 1879. She had been a faithful wife and affectionate mother, and it is greatly owing to her assistance and advice that Mr. Hatch owes his success in life. Mr. Hatch was united in marriage with Miss Hannah A. Pratt, Dec. 2, 1880. This lady was born in Livingston Co., N. Y., May 17, 1845. Mr. Hatch has devoted his life to his trade and in agricultural pursuits, and is, in the fullest sense of the term, a self made man. He is of a retiring disposition, and does not meddle much in political affairs, yet he is decided in his opinions, which he never fails to express at the ballot box.

CARTER HUNTLEY, P. 0. Granger. Mr. Huntley is one of the leading agriculturists and live-stock dealers of Medina Co. He was horn June 17, 1830, in Ontario Co., N. Y., and is one of a family of nine children born to William A. and Eunice (Newton) Huntley, the former a native of Connecticut, and the latter of the 'Empire State. They were married in Ontario Co., N. Y., and resided there until 1831, when they came to this county and purchased a farm of 47 acres in Granger Township. Mr. Huntley died Dec. 24, 1875, followed by his wife Nov. 27, 1880. Carter remained at home until he had reached his majority. The fall following he entered the employ of William Davis, who ran a distillery in Copley Township, Summit Co. He was to receive $8 per month, but, after working two weeks, he so pleased Mr. Davis that his wages were. raised to $12 per month. At the expiration of three months, he had, by working extra time, earned $40. Not needing the money, he took Mr. Davis' note. He says the happiest period of his life was when he carried the note home and showed it to his father. The next summer he farmed his father's place on shares, and in the fall again went to work for Mr. Davis. Some time after this, he entered the employ of Dr. L C. Isbell, of Summit Co. Dr. Isbell was a wealthy man, and owned a large tract of land in Western Wisconsin. In 1854, he sent Mr. Huntley with a number of men to Wisconsin to chop cordwood to supply the Upper Mississippi steamboats. In 1856, while shearing sheep for his uncle, E. E. Huntley, he was bantered by his uncle to purchase fifty head of sheep of him. After some thought, young Huntley purchased them, and, on his return home, was severelyreprimanded by his father for this his first venture in the livestock trade. The father's fears, however, did not affect the son, for the next day he purchased twenty more sheep, and the day following, sold the entire lot at a profit of 12 . cents per head. This was his first experience in the sheep trade. He has, from that time until the present, dealt largely in sheep, with the same success that attended his early effort. He was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. Cook, Nov. 5, 1861. She was born Jan. 9, 1838, in Medina Co., Ohio. They have a family of three children, viz.: Elnora O., born Oct. 31, 1862 ; Viola E.. Jan. 9, 1865, and Royal N., Oct. 21, 1867. On the 10th of January, 1880, their only son, Royal N., was accidentally killed by a large chestnut tree falling on him. This was a severe blow to Mr. and Mrs. Huntley. He was an unusually bright and intelligent boy, and gave promise of a life of future usefulness and greatness. Mr. Huntley owns 337 acres of well-improved land, which he has obtained by his own endeavors. He is a Democrat, but liberal in his views. He is, in the fullest sense of the word, a self-made man, and one of the county's best citizens.

GEORGE H. HODDINOTT, P. O. Granger ; born in Granger Township, this county, Aug. 2, 1860 ; he is the son of Richard and Ann (Hodges) Hoddinott, both of whom were natives of Somersetshire, England. They were married in their native country in the spring of 1856, and a few weeks afterward took passage for the United States, where they hoped to make a home for themselves. They had but little or no means, and on their arrival in this country came almost immediately to Granger Township, where they ever afterward resided. They had one child, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Hoddinott was an intelligent and industrious man, and by his own exertions purchased and paid for 100 acres of land, upon which he resided at the time of his death, Jan. 6, 1874. His wife died Aug. 21, 1879. During their lives, by their exemplary conduct and kindness of manner, they greatly endeared themselves to the people of Granger Township. Mrs. Hoddinott's sister came to this country with herself and husband. She married Mr. Wm. Valleau. and is now a resident of Grangerburg. Jacob Hodges had come to this country some years previous, and located in this county ; he died some years ago, leaving

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a family of two children. Our subject was raised upon a farm, receiving a good common-school education. After the death of his parents he went to live with his guardian, Mr. Benjamin Burt. He now has charge of the village school, and is spoken of as a superior instructor ; although yet young, we have no hesitancy in predicting for him a brilliant and successful future.

JOHN McCLOUD, farmer ; P. O. Remson's Corners ; is one of the three oldest settlers now living in Granger Township. His early residence and identification with the pioneer history of the township. and the prominent part taken by him in all public questions, make his personal history one of interest to all. He is a native of the State of New Hampshire, and was born Dec. 25, 1799. His parents were Samuel and Hannah (Holt) McCloud, also natives of New Hampshire, subsequently removing to Ontario Co., N. Y., where our subject's early life was passed. At the age of 9 years he was bound out to a farmer ; here his life was one of extreme hard work and cruelty until, at the age of 14, the neighbors interfered and he was released. At the age of 19, he started for Ohio as the driver of an ox team for a party who were emigrating. and after a trip of twenty-two days they arrived and located in Granger Township, in October, 1818, where he has been a resident up the present time. The many pioneer tales and incidents of his early life and residence in the township, we will pass by, as many of the dates and facts furnished by him will appear in the township history. His first purchase of land was 50 acres in the eastern portion of the township ; here he resided for a number of years. adding to his land until at times he owned 200 acres. In 1868, he removed to his present location, near Remson's Corners ; he has 50 acres, where he resides. Mr. McCloud was married March 13, 1823, to Miss Anna Wolcott ; her parents were Joseph and Lucy (Hills) Wolcott, natives of Connecticut and pioneers of ' Granger, locating about 1822, and residents of the township the remainder of their days. She , was born in Vermont Oct. 6.1803. They have had six children—Azubah Botsford, living in Missouri; Louisa, deceased Emeline, the wife of Dr. Albertson, of Remson's Corners ; Caroline Wilcox, living in Brunswick Township ; Melissa Arnold. deceased ; Henry. deceased, he enlisted in Co. I, 103 0. V. I., and was in the servicethree years. He was married to Miss Ella Amerman, and at the time of his death farming the old homestead. Mr. McCloud has aided liberally every act of enterprise and charity within his reach. He was one of the first temperance advocates in the township, and has been an efficient worker in reforms of all kinds. At one period he withdrew from his church on account of the opposition to free thought and speech, and erected a church of his own, which he christened the " Church of Liberty," on the spot now known as Liberty Hill. He has been a local preacher, and preached as many as two hundred funeral sermons, uniting in marriage about one hundred couples. For thirty years, he was an agent of the underground railroad. being one of the first men engaged in the purpose of aiding slaves to escape. and continuing until the emancipation proclamation. He paid out in this worthy manner several thousands of dollars, and considers it well spent. Many grateful souls, once slaves, send him from time to time worthy expressions of their gratitude. He is universally respected and esteemed.

PAGE MOON ; P. O. Granger. This gentleman was born in Granger Township. this county, Sept. 10, 1842 ; he is the son of Moses Moon, who was born in Brandon, Vt., May 27, 1803. He was married to Miss Dorcas Page Nov. 5. 1835, a native of the Green Mountain State, where she was born Feb. 16, 1803. A few months after their marriage, they came to this county and purchased the farm now owned by their son Page. They were the parents of four children, viz.: Martha, Harriet, Maria and Page. Mr. Moon was a stonecutter by trade, but, after his marriage, he for the most part followed farming. He was a quiet, unassuming man, never aspiring to any prominence, but devoting his entire time to the improvement of his farm and to making his home comfortable and pleasant. He was a strong anti-slavery man. and intimately connected with the " underground railroad " of Northern Ohio. He died Oct. 5, 1879. his wife Oct. 31, 1863. Page Moon was raised upon a farm and received the benefit of a common-school education. He was united in marriage to Miss Parthenia Willits, a native of Sharon Township, this county. By this marriage there were two children, viz. : Dora M. and Frank P. Mrs. Moon died Feb. 22, 1872. Mr. Moon's second wife was Miss Alice Barnett, to whom he was married Feb.

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12, 1874. This lady was born in Summit Co., Ohio, Dec. 11, 1847. From this union there are two children, viz.: Lena D. and Mark H. Mr. Moon owns 94 acres of good tillable land. He is a Republican in politics, and one of the county's most enterprising citizens.

JONATHAN MUSSER, farmer ; P. O. Remson's Corners ; is a son of David and Mary (Reed) Musser, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneers of Trumbull Co., Ohio ; they subsequently removed to Norton—which was at that time in Medina Co.—where they resided the remainder of their lives ; his decease occurred June 11,1868, and his wife's Feb. 22, 1852. Jonathan was born in Trumbull Co. March 22, 1822;." he remained with his parents until he was 23 years of age. He was united in marriage, March 13. 1845. to Miss Sophia Randall, who was a daughter of Isaac and Patience (Hill) Randall ; her father was a native of Vermont, and her mother of Connecticut. She was born in New York May 27, 1826, and came with her parents when they removed to Ohio in 1834 ; they located in Norton, now Summit Co.. where they resided for a number of years ; her mother died in Norton in 1836 ; her father subsequently returned to New York State, where he died in 1859. Mr. and Mrs. Musser have but one child —Ellen. born Jan. 20. 1849. She was married in November, 1875, to William H. Hanson ; they reside in Wadsworth Township. With the exception of one year. Mr. Musser has been a resident of Granger Township since April. 1851, when he purchased the farm where he now resides. He has 58 acres of fine improved land located on the northern township line. Since his residence in the township, has served as Trustee. and has taken, in former years. an active interest in schools. Mr. and Mrs. Musser are both members of the Disciples' Church of Hinckley. They are genial and hospitable in their manners. and in the community in which they reside are esteemed members of society.

NATHANIEL PIERCE, Granger. This gentleman was born in Rensselaer Co., N. Y., July 22, 1813 ; he is the son of George and Lydia (O'Brien) Pierce. The father was a native of Rhode Island, but when he was a child his parents removed to New York, where they had a large tract of land. While here working to clear up his farm, the father was killed by a falling tree. There were two children in the family at the time of his death—George and Polly. George was married in Rensselaer Co., and resided there during his lifetime. He was a prominent and much-esteemed man and was the Recorder of Rensselaer County for a number of years ; besides this he held other civil and military positions—he having been a soldier of the war of 1812 ; he was the parent of nine children, Nathaniel being the only one now living. Nathaniel was raised on a farm, and his education is such as could be obtained in the common schools of that day. When about 16 years of age he purchased four stands of bees. By care and attention these so in' creased that, in a few years, he had become quite noted as a bee-raiser. During his entire life, when circumstances permitted, he has handled bees, and the same degree of success has always attended his efforts ; he has also been a very successful wool-grower. At 22 years of age he had obtained by his own exertions about 400 head of sheep. In 1834, he came to Ohio, and traveled over a considerable portion of the State, when he returned to his native State. In 1837, he again came to Ohio, . bringing with him a number of fine sheep which he readily disposed of in Licking Co., where he had stopped ; he remained in this county some time, being variously employed ; he was for the period of three years employed by an Eastern company to purchase wool for them. During this time he traveled over great portions of the State and purchased large quantities of wooL In 1840, he came to this county, and, on the 28th of October, the following year, was united in marriage with Miss Harriet Spencer, a native of Granger Township, where she was born Oct. 1, 1821. She was the only child of Thomas and Hannah (Phelps) Spencer, both of whom were natives of Connecticut, from which State they moved to Ontario Co., N. Y. They were married in Ontario Co., and removed from there to this county in 1818, which they ever afterward made their home. Mr. Spencer was a man whom every one respected and looked up to, and in his lifetime did much to advance the religious and educational interests of Granger Township. Mr. and Mrs. Pierce now own and reside upon the old Spencer homestead, which consists of 127 acres of well-improved land. They are the parents of two sons—George S. and Jeffrie S. Mr. Pierce is liberal in his views ; his rule has ever been to support men and measures, and not parties ; he acts hide-

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pendent of sects and denominations, and has always endeavored to throw his influence in whatever direction he thought it would accomplish the most good.

HENRY M. REID, farmer ; P. O. Remson's Corners ; is a native of Granger Township, where he was born in 1834. His father was Harris Reid, a native of Connecticut, born in 1795 ; his mother was Sally Spencer. She was born in Canandaigua, N. Y., in 1800. They were married in Canandaigua, and came to Ohio about 1828, first locating near Sandusky, where they remained about three years. They then removed to Granger Township, and were residents of the township for many years. His father's death occurred in March, 1866 ; his mother is still living with a daughter in Hinckley Township. Our subject's early life was passed upon his father's farm. He was married to Miss Persia Treeman April 15, 1857. She was born Dec. 28, 1834, and is a daughter of John M. and Betsey (Hatch) Treeman, old residents of Granger Township. He was born in Canandaigua, N. Y., July 12, 1811, and came with his parents to Granger in 1818. She was a native of Berkshire Co., Mass., where she was born Dec. 24, 1811, and came with her parents to Granger Township in 1833. They were married in Granger, and first located on a farm on the Granger and Medina Road, where they resided for fourteen years. They then removed to the Remson Tract, where Mr. Treeman first purchased 104 acres, and afterward added to the original purchase until he had 210 at the time of his death, which occurred April 23, 1875. His wife still resides upon the old homestead with her daughter Persia. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Reid remained in Granger Township about nine years, then removed to Michigan. After a residence of four years there, they returned to Granger Township, where they have since resided. In 1878, they removed to her mother's farm, and have been located there up to the present time. They have two children —Lynn L. and Frank L.

JACOB SPELLMAN, blacksmith, Remson's Corners ; is a native of Greene Co., Penn., where he was born in 1825. His father, Charles Spellman. was a native of Pennsylvania ; his mother. Jane Wells, was born in Summit Co., Ohio. They were married in Ohio, and removed to Pennsylvania, where Jacob was born. In 1834, they returned to Ohio and located in Wadsworth Township, where they resided for nearly twenty years ; then removed to Montville Township, where they were residents until their decease. His father's death occurred in October, 1877, aged 95 years ;; his mother's in October, 1868. Jacob, at the age of 18, began to learn the blacksmith's trade with his brother brother three years, and then went to o Bedford where he worked at his trade for one year ; thence to Montville for one year, and, in 1848, located in Remson's Corners, where he has since been engaged at his trade. He was united in marriage, in June, 1850, to Miss Mary Wiard. She was born in New York in 1829. Her father's name was John ; her mothers maiden name was Julia French. They came to Granger Township in 1847. John died in October, 1867 ; his wife still resides at Remson's Corners. Mr. and Mrs. Spellman have five children—Laura, now the wife of A. Crooks; they reside in Remson's Corners ; John, born July 8, 1854; he was married to Miss Sarah E. Bradley March 17, 1878 ; she is a native of Canada, where she was born Sept. 12,1857. John entered the store of Isaac Whitman, at Remson's Corners, in 1872, and has been engaged there since. He is a popular and obliging clerk, and has added considerable to the large trade now enjoyed by Mr. Whitman. Anson is married to Miss Leonora Straight, and is a resident of the township ; Lucia and William are at home. Mr. Spellman is one of Granger's most esteemed citizens. He has served as Constable about fifteen years. In 1862, he enlisted in the 1st Ohio Sharpshooters, and served until the close of the war. As a neighbor, he is kind and obliging, hospitable in every sense of the word, and well worthy of the respect awarded him by his fellow-townsmen.

FAIRFAX R. SMITH, farmer ; Remson's Corners ; was born in Madison Co., N. Y., Dec. 10, 1812 ; he is the son of Fairfax and Abigail (Thayer) Smith, old residents of Montville Township ; his father was a native of Massachusetts, and his mother of New York, and were located in Madison Co., previous to their ' removal to Ohio. Our subject worked upon the farm in Madison Co. until he was 20 years of age. His father, about this time, desired to come to Ohio, which he did, and bought 260 acres of woodland in Montville Township in the year 1833 ; returning to New York State

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he sent out Fairfax R., to clear the land ; the family did not remove until the following spring, in 1834; his parents were residents of the township from that time up to their decease, his father's death occurring in 1848, and his mother's about five years subsequent. Our subject, Fairfax R., worked at home upon the farm for three years after he became of age ; he then bought 30 acres of new land, which he cleared, and then disposed of it. In February, 1848, he removed to Granger Township, purchasing 80 acres of' land near Remson's Corners, where he at present resides ; he has added about 42 acres to the original purchase, making a total of 122 acres, about 40 of which is timbered land ; he was married Dec. 10, 1835, in Montville Township, to Miss Desdemona Wilbur, a daughter of Smith and Nancy (Falkner) Wilbur, early settlers of Montville Township ; she was born in Wayne Co., N. Y.. in 1818 ; her father was a native of Massachusetts, and her mother of Rhode Island ; they removed from New York to Ohio, locating in Montville in the spring of 1834 ; her father died in 1861, while on a visit to Michigan, and her mother August, 1876, at the home of her brother, O. F. Wilbur, in Granger Township. Mr. and Mrs Smith have four children living—Halsey R, married to Miss Nancy Crumb, of Hinckley Township, now living in Nebraska. farming : Fairfax W., married to Josephine Simmons; they are living in Granger Township ; Polly F., married to John W. King, and living in Nebraska, and Ella V., living at home ; a son of Francis B., died at the age of 21 in Granger Township.

FRANKLIN SYLVESTER, P. 0. Granger. Francis Sylvester, father of the above gentle man, was born Nov. 7, 1798, at Kinderhook (now called Stuyvesant), N. Y. He was the eldest of a family of six children, and, at the death of his father, when he was 12 years of age, he went to live with his grandparents, with whom he remained until 18 years of age, at which time he began learning the wagon-maker's trade, with Mr. Jason Clapp, of Pittsfield, N. Y. He was united in marriage with Miss Cynthia Hatch, in 1822, at Barrington. N. Y. He continued to work at his trade in his native State until 1833, when he removed to Granger Township, this county, where he ever afterward resided, working at his trade. He was a man of much more than ordinary intelligence and information, noted for his great conversationalpowers, kindness of heart, and social qualities. He departed this life May 10, 1878 ; his wife survives him, and is a resident of Granger Township. They were the parents of seven children, all of whom are now living, the oldest being 56, and the youngest 40 years of age. This family of Sylvesters are descended from a gentleman of that name who came from Holland to America previous to the war of the Revolution, and located in New York. He afterward became a Judge in the " Empire " State, and was well and favorably known throughout the Eastern and New England States. Franklin Sylvester was born in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., March 28, 1831. The limited means of his parents and the disadvantages of those early days afforded but a limited education in early life. He began when about 10 years of age to work for the farmers of the neighborhood in which he resided, eagerly accepting any honorable business that promised a reasonable compensation, and carefully hoarding up his hardearned wages. He was always fond of the horse, and, when yet quite a boy, by trading in sheep and cattle, which he had bought with his earnings, found himself the possessor of a fine young horse. He kept on trading and working by the month and day until after he had reached his majority. At 25 years of age, we find him. the possessor of the snug little sum of $3,000, which he had accumulated by his own exertions. About this time, he and Mr. R. N. Hickox embarked in the mercantile business in the township, also ran an ashery and dealt quite largely in live stock. He was united in marriage with Miss Eunice M. Reid Oct. 4, 1857. This lady was born in Granger Township, this county, Aug. 4, 1839. She is the daughter of Harris and Sally (Spencer) Reid, who came to the township in a very early day. Since his marriage, Mr. Sylvester has for most part been engaged in real estate transactions, and raising and shipping live stock. For some years past he has paid considerable attention to the raising and breeding of shorthorn cattle. His two-year-old bull, " Buckeye State," is one of the best in Northern Ohio ; his shorthorn heifer, "Cora Smith, 2d," is a calf of " Cora Smith, 1st," who sold in Kentucky, when 8 months old, for $4,000. He has others of this well-known breed, all of them being registered in the American Herd Book, where full descriptions of them can be obtained. Mr. Sylvester is deserving of great

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credit for his endeavors to better the grade of cattle in Granger and adjoining townships. He is a man of broad and liberal views, opposing everything known to be wrong, and favoring everything known to be right. He is, in the fullest sense of the term, a self-made man, and his career has been one of signal success—the elements of which are found in an excellent judgment; a remarkable business tact, an indomitable energy and perseverance, a strict integrity in dealing, and a power (which few men possess) of keeping his own counsels. Through all his pecuniary prosperity, it is but simple justice to say he has been notably magnanimous in the use of a wealth that a propitious Providence has thrown into his hands. His donations for educational, religious and other charitable purposes have been very considerable ; nor have they been confined to Granger Township alone ; many of them are yet unknown in the community in which he resides. He owns over 500 acres of well-improved land in Granger Township, and 160 acres in Kansas, which he has obtained by close attention to business, combined with economy and industry.

THOMAS H. SYLVESTER, farmer ; P. O. Remson's Corners ; is a native of Granger Township, and was born July 28. 1833 ; he is a son of Francis and Cynthia (Hatch) Sylvester, who are mentioned more prominently in other portions of this work. Thomas, at the age of 16, commenced learning the blacksmith's trade, and after three years' apprenticeship, engaged in the business for himself in Granger Township, where he continued for about fifteen years ; he then turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, first renting a farm for two years, and then purchasing one on the Granger road, where he resided for four years. In April, 1873. he purchased the farm located about one-half mile east of Remson's Corners. where he still resides ; he has 103 acres of land, about 25 of which is timber; his marriage to Miss Nancy Hatch occurred Feb. 13. 1859 ; she is a daughter of Hoel and Saloma Hatch, who also are mentioned more fully in other parts of the work. Nancy was born in Granger Township April 18. 1839. Their children are as follows : Grove E., Addie M., Fred. E., Edith A. Although young in years, Mr. Sylvester is a prominent and respected citizen of the township.

EDWARD TRIFFIT. farmer ; P. O. Remson's Corners ; was born in Geneva, N. Y., in 1820; his parents were Richard and Sarah (Carnaby) Triffit, both natives of England. Richard was born in Leeds in 1774 ; his wife in Yorkshire Oct. 10, 1784; they were married in England and came to America in 1818, being eight weeks on the passage.; they first settled in Geneva, N. Y., and from there removed to Castile, Genesee Co., where they resided about seven years ; they then removed to Bath Township, now in Summit Co., residing there until his death, June 22, 1838 ; his wife survived him until Nov. 30, 1875, when she died, aged 91 years. They had ten children, seven of whom were buried in England. James. a son born in England and a resident of Bath Township, died about 1863, leaving a wife and one child ; Marv, married to Chester Bills and residing in Michigan, died about 1854 ; Edward is now the only living child ; at 19 years of age, he left home and went to learn the carpenter and joiner's trade, which occupation he followed for a number of years in Hudson, Akron and Cleveland. When the land comprising the Remson Tract, in Granger Township. was offered for sale, he purchased 50 acres located on the northern township line, where he now re' sides ; he was married Nov. 18, 1845. to Miss Elizabeth A. Miller, and in August. 1846. removed upon his farm, where he has since resided ; his wife died July 17. 1850, leaving one child, Sarah A., born Nov. 25. 1847, died July 28, 1849 ; he was united in marriage to a second wife, Miss Elsie J. Hatch, Aug. 27, 1851 ; she was born March 31, 1828, in Granger Township ; her parents, Simeon and Bethiah (Taylor) Hatch, were natives of New York and pioneers of Granger Township. locating there about 1824. Their anion has been blessed with two children—Amelia A., born Feb. 27, 1853, the wife of F. A. Woodruff, who has one child, Ernest ; Lauretta B., born Oct. 7, 1860. Mr. Triffit has now 70 acres of improved land all under good cultivation, and adorned with neat outbuildings and a pleasant and elegant residence. He is a prosperous and industrious farmer and an honorable, upright citizen. He and his wife are members of the M. E. Church of Granger.

ISAAC WHITMAN, Postmaster and merchant, Remson's Corners ; one of the most promnent business men of Granger Township. is the subject of this sketch. He is a native of Massachusetts ; was born Oct. 17, 1834. His parents,

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Isaac and Hannah (Parker) Whitman, were also natives of Massachusetts. They came to Medina Co. in 1842, and first located in Chatham Township, remaining there eleven years ; then moved to Granger Township, where they made their homes up to their deaths. His father's death occurred March 22, 1861, and his mother's March 1, 1863. Previous to engaging in the mercantile trade, Isaac, in partnership with his brother Alden, operated a saw-mill in Granger Township for twelve years ; they then disposed of the mill property, and bought out the store of French & Boughten, of Remson's Corners. They continued in partnership for eight years, and then Alden sold his share to his brother and removed to Chatham Township, where he is now engaged in farming. Since that time, Isaac has continued in trade alone. His stock consists of a general line of merchandise, embracing dry goods, groceries, boots, shoes. hardware, etc. He has been Postmaster since 1869. As a merchant, Mr. Whitman is deservedly popular, being in his manner genial, obliging and courteous. As a citizen, he ranks as one of the most enterprising and public-spirited, an obliging neighbor. and a useful and honorable member of society. He was united in marriage, Dec. 1, 1858, to Miss Susan A. Perin. She was born in Hinckley Township Dec. 24, 1839. Her father. Orrin Perin. was a native of Massachusetts. Her mother. Elizabeth Willey, a native of Vermont. They were married in Monroe Co., N. Y., and came to Ohio in 1833. first locating in Granger Township, remaining there but one year ; thence to Hinckley Township, where they resided until 1865. They then removed to McLean Co.. Ill., and, in 1875. to Ford Co., where her father died in April, 1880. Her mother is now living with her children in Granger Township. Mr. and Mrs. Perin's children were as follows : Asa D., now living in Kansas ; he served three years in the 5th Kansas Cavalry ; Reuben W., enlisted in the 36th Ill. IT. ., and served nearly three years, when he was killed at Chickamauga ; Charles H., enlisted in the 5th Kansas Cavalry, and was in the service nearly three years. He was killed at Pine Bluff. Ark.. while in service ; Susan A. ; Orrin O. ; he served nearly a year in the 178th 0. V. I. ; he is now living in Hinckley Township ; Mary A. Thompson, living in Kansas ; Eliza F. Sprague, living in Nebraska ; Heman L.. living in Granger ; Cora T. Rankin, living in Illinois and Clara E. Lewis, living in Kansas. Mr. and Mrs. Whitman's children are as follows : Jessie E.. born Nov. 4, 1861, died March 3, 1863 ; Earnest W., July 12, 1863 ; Arthur L, born Sept. 27, 1868, and Cora E., Dec. 7, 1874 ; died Sept. 23, 1876. Mr. Whitman has a sister living in Granger Township—Harriet N. Raw. He has served the township as Treasurer about five years, and in educational matters has always taken an active interest.

GEORGE WORDEN, farmer ; P. O. Weymouth. Is a son of Zara and Sally (Frisbee) Worden, who were natives of Connecticut, and early settlers in Medina Co. They first located in Liverpool Township, where George was born in June, 1822. When he was about a year old, his parents removed back to Connecticut and remained there about three years ; then, tired of the rocks and hills of Connecticut, they returned to Liverpool Township, where they resided for a number of years. Subsequently, they removed to Lorain Co., and then to Weymouth, Medina Co., where they both departed this life. George remained with his parents until he was 24 years old ; he then came to Granger Township, and took up 112 acres of timbered land, which he has since cleared and improved with fences, buildings, etc., and where he has resided up to the present writing. He was married, Aug. 23, 1852, to Miss Mary A. Clark ; she was a daughter of Phineas and Saloma (Brown) Clark, natives of New York, and pioneers of Brunswick Township, coming there as early as 1817, and residents of the township up to 1864, when Phineas died and his wife removed to Weymouth, Medina Township, where she died in 1875. Mary was born in Brunswick in 1834 ; she has a sister, Jane Wallace, living in Weymouth. Mr. and Mrs. Worden had but one child—William S.—who is now living at home. They are both members of the Methodist Church. The children of Zara and Sally Worden, now living, are as follows : Nathan, now a resident of Henry Co.; George, the subject of this sketch ; Joseph, living in Medina ; Sally Ann, residing in Medina ; Caroline Upson, living in Medina, and Thomas, now living in Medina.

S. P. WOLCOTT, Granger. This gentleman was Born in Middlesex, Washington Co., Vt., Sept. 25, 1804. He is the son of Joseph and Lucy (Hills) Wolcott, both natives of East Windsor. Conn., where they were married and

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resided till the latter part of the eighteenth century, when they removed to the birthplace of their son S. P. They remained in the Green Mountain State until 1816, and then removed to Ontario Co., N. Y. In the fall of 1820, they came to this county and located in Granger Township. They were the parents of seven children, four of whom are now living. Mr. Wolcott was the Captain of a company, and served his country with distinction during the war of the Revolution. Three of his brothers were also in this war. He died in 1866, at the advanced age of 91 years. His wife died in 1855. S. P. Wolcott was raised upon a farm, receiving but a limited education. He worked for his father until of age, and contributed no little toward caring for the family. He was frugal and industrious, and as fast as he earned money he invested it in land. In 1828, he returned to Ontario Co., N. Y., where he found employment as a farm laborer for two years. During this time he had saved enough money to finish paying for the land he had purchased. He was united in marriage to Miss Nancy W. Codding Sept. 20, 1835. She was born in Bristol, Ontario Co., N. Y., Feb. 13, 1814. From this union there were sixteen children—Fernando, Alzina M., Horace, Sarah J., Harriet C., Chester, Clayton C., Clayton, Cornelius, Cornelia, Samuel M., Alice A., Frank L., Mary L., Amelia C. and Ida M. Horace, Chester and Clayton were in the late war. After the war, Horace entered the employment of the Government and went overland to the Pacific coast. On his return to the East he took a trip South. since which time he has never been heard of by the family. Mr. Wolcott began life as a poor boy, and is, in the fullest sense of the word. a self-made man. Although too old to work he still has charge of his farm, which is one of the best improved in Granger Township. He is an intelligent, enterprising gentleman, a jovial companion and one of the county's best citizens. In politics, he is a Republican of the stalwart kind.