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YORK TOWNSHIP.

FRANKLIN BURT, Mallet Creek ; was born in Granger Township, Medina Co., Ohio, Feb. 13, 1831. He is a son of Matilda and C. C. Burt, the mother's maiden name being Hickox. The Burts came from New England to Medina Co., Ohio, in March, 1819, and to York Township in 1842, where the parents are yet living. Franklin Burt passed his youth and early manhood on a farm, receiving a common-school education. When 21 years of age, he began for himself; laying aside his wages until he had enough to start a home. He was married, in December, 1853, to Jane Crissman, daughter of Daniel Crissman. To this union there were born seven children, six of whom are yet living—Clara (now wife of E. H. Phillips), Vernon, Floyd, Phaxon, Harvey, Mary and Elva. Mrs. Burt was horn July 27, 1831. Mr. Burt owns 127 acres of excellent land ; is a Republican in politics, and he and his wife are members of the Protestant Methodist Church at York Center. Mr. Burt is an enterprising and industrious farmer, and is among the best citizens in York Township.

L. B. BRINTNALL. deceased ; was born in New Haven Co., Conn., Dec. 19, 1814. He is a son of Thomas and Lydia (Wright) Brintnall, who were parents of six children, as follows : James M., Lemuel B., Melissa, Aurelia, Monroe W. and Franklin T.; Monroe died in Jefferson Co., Ill., March 23, 1845. Lemuel B., together with his parents, moved from Connecticut to Genesee Co., N. Y., in 1815, and, in 1831, emigrated to York Township, Medina Co., Ohio, coming the second year after the earliest settler in the township had arrived. They came overland with a neighbor, each having a team. Mr. Brintnall owned a yoke of oxen, and these were used to draw the household goods of the two families, while they rode in their neighbor's wagon, which was drawn by a team of horses. The men took turns walking and driving four milch cows, and thus they arrived in York Township. Mr. Brintnall located in the eastern part of the township, and immediately began clearing and improving a farm. Here the subject of this biography passed his youth until he reached his majority. From the time he was 17 until he was 21, his time was employed, in the winter, in teaching school. In 1843, he was united in marriage with Lydia, daughter of Thomas Sayles, Esq., and to them were born eleven children—Francis, born June 10, 1844 ; Emma I., Oct. 23, 1845 ; Thomas, Jan. 13, 1847 ; Eliza, Sept. 13, 1848; Charles, Dec. 24, 1849 ; Dwight, Feb. 13, 1852 ; Helen J., Dec. 1, 1853 ; Arthur, Nov. 7, 1855 ; E. W., April 13, 1868 ; Elmer E., July 2, 1860 ; and Wesley L., July 15, 1862. Mrs. Brintnall was born Feb. 16, 1817. Mr. Brintnall was a Republican in politics, and a member of the Congregational Church at York Center. On Feb. 2. 1879, he was taken down with typhoid pneumonia, and, after five days of suffering, died. Mr. Brintnall was a fond husband and a kind father, and his death was deeply deplored by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. The widow still continues to reside on the old homestead.

H. C. A. BACKER, farmer ; P. O. Medina ; was born in Hanover, Germany, March 11, 1825. He is a son of Henry and Dora (Dethers) Backer, who were parents of seven children, only three of whom are now living. The father was a farmer, and, to better his circumstances and give his children proper advantages for securing an education, emigrated to the United States, landing in New York in 1830. After a year's stay in New York, he, with his family, came to Cleveland, and, in 1831, came to Medina Co., Ohio, locating in Liverpool Township, where they lived until their parents' deaths. Mr„ Backer was a hardworking and industrious citizen. On his arrival, he ran in debt for 30 acres of land, which was all paid for at the time of their respective deaths. Our subject passed his early career on the farm in Liverpool Township ; and, in 1845, was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of Conrad Rinner, and by her had seven children—Henry, Katy, Louisa, Henry, Jr., Frederick, Wilhelmina and William. Of these, only Katy, Frederick and Wilhelmina are now living. Mrs. Backer was born in Germany in 1823. After the death of his parents.

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our subject bought out the heirs and commenced living on the old homestead. In 1869. he came to York Township. and has ever since resided there. He is independent in politics. and he and wife are members of the German Lutheran Church. Mr. Backer owns 119 acres of well-improved land, which he has gained principally by hard labor, honesty and frugality. His father was a soldier under the great Napoleon, and was a sharp-shooter. He was in that never to be forgotten battle—Waterloo—where Napoleon received such a crushing defeat.

E. A. BRANCH, farmer ; P. O. Medina; was born Sept. 3, 1818. in New York. and is a son of the old pioneer, Judge Levi Branch. of whom appropriate mention is made elsewhere in this work. Mr. Branch was reared on a farm, receiving but a moderate education. He came with his parents to York Township. in 1830, and. on the 16th of November. 1842. was united in marriage with Sarah S. Gardner. daughter of Levi and Lydia (Stickney) Gardner. and by her had six children—E. L.. now wife of Lyman Watkins ; Ella F.. widow of M. Gardner ; Martha, now dead. and three others who died in infancy without being named. Mrs. Branch was born in Monroe Co., N. Y.. in 1824. and her folks were old settlers in York Township. Besides their own children, Mr. and Mrs. Branch have adopted three boys. whom they have raised from infancy, they adopting the surname of Mr. Branch. These were Theodore (deceased). Fremont A. and Willis A. Mr. Branch is a Republican in politics, and has held various township offices. He owns 148 acres of well-improved land. He and wife are members of the Congregational Church. and are well-known and highly respected citizens.

A. C. BOWEN. farmer ; P. 0. Mallet Creek ; was born in Berkshire Co., Mass., March 16, 1812. He is a son of Peter and Polly (Apthorp) Bowen, and is a descendant of old and honored families of New England. Mr. Bowen was reared upon a farm, and in youth received a good common-school education. During the month of June, 1837, he came to Medina Co.. Ohio, locating in La Fayette Township. In 1850, he moved to York Township, where he has ever since resided. On the 6th day of September, 1838, he was united in marriage with Miss Cecelia M. Branch, daughter of Elisha Branch, and by her had five children—Angelina M., now wife of A. Depew ; Myron E.. dead ; Myra E., dead ; Delia S., dead, and M. M., now the wife of S. W. Bachtell. Mr. and Mrs. Bowen are hardworking and industrious people. They are consistent and devoted members of the Congregational Church at York Center. Mrs. Bowen is a refined and well-educated lady. They own 61 acres of well-improved land. and are classed among the old settlers of York Township.

NELSON T. BURNHAM. farming ; P. O. Medina ; is a native of Connecticut. and was born on a farm in Hartford Co. Dec. 26. 1811. His early life was passed on the farm. during which time he received a limited education in the common schools of his neighborhood. On becoming of age. he engaged as salesman with a clock establishment, receiving a salary of $35

per month the first year. and $50 per month the second year. after which he continued the business on his own responsibility, buying and selling for himself. and operating by team in Pennsylvania and the western portion of Virginia. After a total experience of five years in the clock trade. Mr. Burnham settled down to mercantile business in Middletown. Conn.. where he remained until 1846. in the fall of which year he came to Ohio. locating on his present place. May 2G. 1842. he married Miss Emily Clark. a native of Litchfield Co.. Conn. She. together with her parents. came to Medina Co.. Ohio. about the year 1837. To her marriage with Mr. Burnham. there were born eight children. of whom five are now living—Nellie M.. wile of Prof. Hendrickson. Professor of Mathematics in the Naval Academy, at Annapolis. Md.: Mary E., now Mrs. Packard, of Covert, Mich. : Franklin Y.. farmer. lives on part of the home farm ; Ed-ward, at home, and Andrew L. is in business in Medina. Of the deceased. Arthur N. died in infancy ; Frederick N. and Josephine E. lived to maturity ; all died at home. and were buried at Medina. Though starting in life with no capital but a stout heart and willing hands. Mr. Burnham has. by economy and well-directed effort, been very successful in business. He now owns over 500 acres of land, on which he is just. completing an elegant brick residence. and one of the finest in the county. The interior of this house was arranged according to Mrs. Burnham's own orders. and. as a house of convenience. it is not excelled by any in the county. Taking the house as a whole, it is a model of convenience and architectural beauty, reflecting much

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credit to Messrs. Thomas Gower, mason, and Richard Gibbings, carpenter, under whose management the building is being completed.

WILLIAM BOWMAN, farmer ; P. 0. Mallet Creek ; is a son of Christopher and Sylvia (Shafer) Bowman, and their parents were natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married. From Pennsylvania, they moved to Stark Co., Ohio, in 1820. After pioneers' experience there for seven years, they removed to Sugar Creek Township, Wayne Co., Ohio, and from there to La Fayette Township. Medina Co., in 1835. They resided here in the wilderness, building up a home, until their respective deaths, which occurred the same day in September. 1863. On his arrival in La Fayette Township, Mr. Bowman had but about $10 in all, and this he advanced on his farm. which consisted of 110 acres. By degrees. and by the hardest labor, this farm was finally cleared of all expense in about 1855. William. the subject of this biography, was born in Wayne Co., Ohio. June 1. 1830. and is one in a family of fourteen children. He passed his youth and early manhood on the farm in La Fayette Township. On Dec. 11. 1852. he married Sarah J.. daughter of Michael and Lena (Wheeler) Troxler. and by her had five children —Willis. dead ; Delpha. Silva, Silvinia and Frank. Mrs. Bowman was born in Summit Co.. Ohio. Oct. 16. 1S33. May 2. 1863. Mr. Bowman enlisted in Company D. 166th O. V. I.. and served 113 days. Both of his grandfathers were in the Revolutionary war. serving the colonies faithfully. His daughter Delpha is the wife of Levi Stone. and is a resident of York Township. Mr. Bowman owns 150 acres of well-improved land. He is a stanch Republican in politics. and he and wife are members of the Disciples' Church at La Fayette Center.

DAVID H. BENNETT. farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Mallet Creek. There is no family more worthy of a sketch in this work than the family of Mr. Bennett, of York Township. Mr. Bennett is a son of Oliver and Betsey (Ford) Bennett. who came to Brunswick Township, Medina Co.. Ohio, in 1827. Mr. Bennett was a native of New Hampshire, and his wife of Massachusetts. They were married in New York, and were parents of ten children, seven of whom are yet living. Our subject was born in Orleans Co., N. Y., March 5, 1820, and was reared on a farm, and, in after years, has made that his business. His father died August, 1863. andhis mother August, 1859. On the 10th of April. 1845, he was united in marriage with Mary Tillotson, daughter of the old pioneer Daniel Tillotson, who came to Brunswick Township at the early. date of 1815. To this union, were born six sons and one daughter—Lucius H.. Francis 0., Charles E., Fred D., Elmer E.. Milo A. and Ida M. Francis, Charles and Fred are married. After his marriage, Mr. Bennett worked his father's farm four years, receiving one-third of the proceeds. In 1849, he came to York Township, and settled on the farm he now owns, buying at that time 50 acres, paying $250 cash. with a balance of $550 to pay. He worked very hard here, and. at the end of a few prosperous years, was enabled to pay the full amount for the land. By degrees. he has since added. until he now owns a fine farm of 97 acres. which is clear of all incumbrances. which he has gained by legitimate farming. Mr. Bennett is a stanch Republican in politics. and an earnest worker in the advancement of education. Mrs. Bennett was born in Brunswick Township Oct. I1. 1821. Mr. Bennett's father served all through the war of 1812 ; enlisting as private. he was promoted to Orderly Sergeant. Mr. Bennett and wife are esteemed citizens of York Township.

LEVI H. BRANCH. deceased. He was born in Monroe Co., N. Y.. July 21, 1816. He is a son of Judge Levi and Polly (Stone) Branch, the old pioneers of York Township. He. together with his parents. came to York Township in the fall of 1830. and. up to his death, always made York his home. Mr. Branch was reared on a farm. receiving a good common-school education. April 16. 1839, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary A. Bowen, daughter of Peter and Polly (Apthorp) Bowen, and sister of A. C. Bowen, a sketch of whom appears in this work. Peter Bowen was born Nov. 20, 1788, and Polly Apthorp, his wife, was born March 11. 17 87. They were married Dec. 23, 1810, and to them were born ten children, eight of whom are yet living. They came overland by wagon from Berkshire Co., Mass., to York Township. Medina Co., Ohio, in 1838. Mr. Bowen departed this life Sept. 29, 1871, and Mrs. Bowen Nov. 15, 1861. To the union of Levi H. Branch and Mary A. Bowen. there were born the following family : Alvin L., Sidney S., Nelson L., Henry M., Hylas K., Milo E., Caleb B. and Mary E. Alvin and

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Nelson are now dead ; Sidney served his country in the late war, in Co. K, 8th O. V. I. He is now in Michigan, having married Anna Hudson. Hylas and Henry are in the same State, the former marrying Josie Barragar and the latter Agatha Gardner. Milo married Miss Alma Gardner, and resides with his mother. Mary is single and lives at home. Mrs. Branch was born April 12. 1819. In about 1862, Mr. Branch's health began failing, and finally terminated in his death, which occurred July 19, 1872. He was a kind husband and an affectionate father. He was regarded by his friends and neighbors as an excellent farmer and an honorable, upright gentleman. Mrs. Branch survives him, and continues to reside on the home place near Erhart, in York Township. The homestead consists of 137 acres, while Milo owns 77 acres adjoining it. The Branches and Bowens are among the best and most influential citizens in York Township.

ZIMRI COOK, farmer ; P. O. Mallet Creek; is one in a family of fourteen children, their names being as follows : Zuriel, Zerena, Zerema, Zimri, Zephrona, Zerusha, Zetna, Zegustus, Zelora, Zethaniel, Zeruth, Zelotus, Zedelia and Zejames. Of these, Zurial and Polly (Lombard) Cook were the parents. Zimri Cook was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., in January, 1813. In 1832, he, with his parents, emigrated to Ohio, locating in York Township, Medina Co., where the parents remained until their respective deaths ; the father died Aug. 26, 1849, and Mrs. Cook died Aug. 26, 1869. On their arrival in the county, there was but a sixpence in money in the entire family, and with this start the parents struggled on, and at the time of their deaths were worth considerable property. When ten years old, Zimri hired out to the neighbors to work on their farms, and assist the settlers generally. He continued working out in that manner until 1830. He was married in the State of New . York, Jan. 11, 1843, to Elizabeth E. Brown, daughter of Charles Brown, Esq., and by her had the following-named family •: Margaret E., Charles B., Thamson E., Horatio Z., Elizabeth and Medora. Medora is now dead. Margaret resides in Michigan, the wife of W. H. Brooks. Charles is an express messenger, in Omaha, Neb. Thamson is single and lives at home with his parents. Horatio married Elva Pritchard, and lives in Kansas. Elizabeth is the widow of Nathaniel Firman. and she resides with her parents. The mother of these children died July 3, 1861, and Mr. Cook married Fanny Merriman as his second wife. the marriage taking place May 24, 1865. The present Mrs. Cook was a daughter of Oliver Caswell, and the widow of Nathaniel Merriman. Mr. Cook is a Republican in politics. and an intelligent gentleman.

ORLANDO DICKERMAN, farmer ; P. O. Mallet Creek ; was born in Medina Co.. Ohio, Nov. 15, 1826 ; he is a son of Clement and Almira (Ormsby) Dickerman ; his parents were among the early pioneers of Medina Co., and their coming to the county influenced many other families to come. Orlando was reared on a farm, receiving a common-school education. Jan. 1, 1851. he was united in marriage with Elizabeth. daughter of Arza and Achsah (Lampson) Pearson, and by her has three children—Achsah (deceased), Clark P. and Henry C. Mr. Dickerman is a Republican in politics, and is the owner of 100 acres of finely improved land. He and family are well respected wherever known, and are among the enterprising citizens in York Township.

REUBEN GARDNER, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. 0. Mallet Creek. Among the old and honored pioneers of York Township are Reuben Gardner and wife. Mr. Gardner was born in Monroe Co., N. Y., Dec. 6, 1816 ; his parents, Levi and Lydia (Stickney) Gardner, were natives of New England, and parents of a family of ten children, three of whom are now dead. Reuben's early youth was passed on his father's farm, at which period he received a good common-school education. During the fall of 1831, Levi Gardner and family moved into York Township, Medina Co., Ohio, settling on 160 acres of woodland, for which he had previously traded 30 acres in New York, making an even trade. Mr. Gardner, Sr., was a man of good education, and proved to be a valuable addition to the little colony of settlers then beginning to locate in this township. He and wife are both dead. They lived long enough, however, to see the work they had so successfully begun in clearing and improving merge into pleasant homes and valuable land for their descendants. Reuben Gardner was married, Aug. 9, 1840, to Mary E. Branch. daughter of " Judge " Levi Branch and Polly (Stone) Branch ; to this union were born the following family : Polly (deceased),

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Theodore C., Almeda M., Lucretia, Fanny A., Chloe M.. Lydia L., Eva A., Harry R., Martha H. (deceased), and one unnamed that died in infancy. Theodore is a merchant in Millbrook, Mich.; Almeda married a Mr. Pond, and lives in Brooklyn, N. Y.; Lucretia is the wife of B. H. Hale, and resides in York Township ; Fanny is a missionary among the idol-worshiping inhabitants of Japan ; Chloe is the wife of E. L. Phillips ; Lydia is the wife of H. F. Cummings, and both reside in Mecosta Co., Mich.; Eva is the wife of J. D. Holcomb, and resides in York Center ; Harry is a young man not yet of age, and is attending business college in Brooklyn, N. Y. Mrs. Gardner was born Jan. 19, 1822 ; her parents came to York Township in 1830, and were among the earliest settlers in the township. Mr. Gardner is a Republican in politics, while he and his wife are members of the Congregational Church at York Center. They own a large and well-improved farm.

JACOB GAYER, farmer ; P. 0. Medina ; was born in Germany Feb. 4. 1808 ; he is a son of Charles and Susan (Miller) Gayer, who were parents of seven children. only four of whom are yet living. In 1823, Jacob. with his parents, emigrated to the United States, coming direct to Medina Co.. settling in Liverpool Township. In 1834. he was united in marriage with Frances R. Gollmer, daughter of Joachim Gollmer. In 1850 he purchased his present place, where he has lived peacefully ever since. He now owns 76 acres of well-improved land, about one mile northwest of Medina. Mr. and Mrs. Gayer's children are as follows : John (dead), Caroline (dead). Henry. Gotleib, Charles, Frances. Jacob. William. Augustus (dead) and Caroline. Henry married Sarah Keller, and lives in Medina ; Gotleib married Mary Katzmier, and lives in Wood Co., Ohio ; Frances is the wife of George Sheldrick. and lives in Medina ; Jacob married Frederika Mayer, is a carpenter and lives in Akron, Ohio. William married Christina. Beck. and is in the same business with his brother Jacob in Akron. Mrs. Gayer's parents came to Liverpool Township, Medina Co., Ohio. from Germany in 1830, and they were the first Germans in the county, and to their coming can be attributed the German element now in Medina Co.; Caroline, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gayer, is a young lady of more than usual accomplishments, upon whom the parents havebestowed a finished education. She has taught in a number of colleges and normal schools of Northern Ohio, and is a competent and thorough instructor in Greek, Latin, German and English. Henry and Gottleib were brave and efficient soldiers in the late war, and served their country faithfully. Mr. Gayer is a Democrat in politics, and he and wife are members of the German Lutheran Church.

FRANCIS GARDNER. farmer and Postmaster. Abbeyville ; was born in Baden. Germany, in 1823 ; he is one in a family of six children, only three of whom are yet living. The parents of this family were Francis and Genevieve (Burkard) Gardner. who were also natives of Germany. The father was a miller by trade, and Francis. Jr., learned this trade thoroughly of his father. In 1845, he was united in marriage with Clara Slaughter, daughter of Francis Slaughter. In 1849. Mr. Gardner, with many others of his countrymen, rebelled against the King of Germany for his tyranical conduct. and he was immediately assigned to Gen. Franz Sigel's corps with the rank of Lieutenant. The history of that rebellion is well known. and is needless of a repetition here. Mr. Gardner served gallantly in this war, but, with the rest of the troops. was compelled to surrender after a bloody struggle, Gen. Sigel barely escaping with his life to Switzerland. After his capture. and when the insurrection had ceased. a great many of the prominent offenders were executed, and Mr. Gardner expected daily that his turn would come next. Finally. by the aid of friends, he escaped. and. hoarding a vessel bound for America, sailed for that refuge beyond the Atlantic. He arrived in New York in 1852. after a voyage of forty days ; he remained here a short time, and then, together with his family, came to York Township, Medina Co.. Ohio, and has ever since made that his home. To his union with Miss Slaughter. there were born eleven children, all being dead but the following : Philomena, Maria, Caroline. Theressa and Lucy. The mother died in April. 1864. On his arrival in York Township, Mr. Gardner purchased the mill at Abbeyville of Martin Flick. and after four years of adversity sold out and commenced butchering, and this he followed about six years. In December, 1869, he purchased 150 acres of his present farm, and that, with the little lot he owned besides. made him

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a nice farm of 162 acres. In April, 1876. he was commissioned Postmaster at Abbeyville, and has retained that office up to the present. Mr. Gardner is a Republican and a member of the Catholic Church. and is an intelligent and influential citizen.

ELI HUBBARD, farmer ; P. O. Medina ; is a native of the "Nutmeg State," and was born Jan. 23, 1828. He is a son of A. W. and Miranda (Prince) Hubbard, who were parents of a family of six children, four of whom are yet living—Almira. Eli, Julia. Lysander T., Cynthia A.. deceased ; and one child, a twin brother to Eli. who died in childhood without being named. The parents of these children were from New England. They came to York Township from Genesee Co., N. Y.. in 1837, 'and are classed among the early settlers of York Township. These parents were holiest and industrious, and were among the township's best and most highly respected citizens. The subject of this biography was reared on a farm, receiving a common-school education in youth. Sept. 15, 1855, he was united in marriage with Emily C. Goodrich, daughter of Joshua Goodrich, descendant of an old family. To his marriage with Miss Goodrich, there were born two children—Melva J., now wife of Henry Caswell, and Frankie A. The latter is a young man. single, and resides with his parents in York Township. Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard are members of the Congregational Church in Medina. Mr. Hubbard owns 100 'acres of fine farming and grazing land. Is a Republican in politics. and a kind. enterprising gentleman.

J. R. HOLCOMB. of the firm of J. R. Holcomb & Co., Mallet Creek ; was born in Hudson, Ohio, June 15. 1847. He is a sou of Walter and Jane E. (Candee) Holcomb, who were parents of five children. Of this family, only J. R. and Charles F. are now living. The parents are yet living, and their home is in York Center. The Holcombs, like a large proportion of the earliest settlers, and like many who came to Ohio in later years, were from the New England States, and were honest and industrious people. Prior to his becoming 18 years of age, J. R. Holcomb spent much of his time going to school. After that, and until 1870, he followed the occupation of house-painting. and, during the next three years. followed a variety of pursuits. In 1873. he cameto York Center, and, with only a small hand printing-press, began a general business of card printing. By degrees, and by judicious advertising and close attention to business, Mr. Holcomb increased the scope and extent of the enterprise, until it afforded him a fair revenue. Soon after his commencement in York Center, he. in connection with his card-printing, started a general novelty business, and this he has continued ever since with success. In 1875. his business had so increased as to render necessary the building of a larger establishment, and accordingly he erected a large and commodious two-story building, in which is now carried on the business of the partnership. In September, 1879, J. R. and J. D. Holcomb formed a partnership, the firm name being J. R. Holcomb & Co., the latter partner owning one-third of the stock. During the spring of 1S80. Charles F. Holcomb was admitted as a partner. the name of the firm not undergoing any change. Each of the partners owns an equal share of the stock. It was during the year of 1875 that Mr. Holcomb commenced the publication of a small school journal entitled The Teacher's Guide, This little journal met with profitable support, and today it ranks among the first in the United States as a school journal. with a circulation equal to any. The Teacher's Guide was first issued bimonthly, but in 1880 it was changed to a monthly periodical. It is ably edited by J. D. Holcomb, who is deeply interested in the educational work. It is an invaluable assistant to the teacher and normal conductor, and is warmly commended by able educators. J. R. Holcomb & Co. do a most extensive business. They have in store, among a great many other novelties, school supplies of all kinds, improved elastic rubber stamps, musical instruments, both foreign and domestic, books, etc. In 1878, J. It. Holcomb invented an automatic telephone, and it proves to be one of the best. The popularity of these instruments is attested by the sales, which amount to over ten thousand sets since their invention. In order to give a short sketch of the business done by this firm, we can say, that, in 1875, J. R. Holcomb was commissioned Postmaster at York Center, with a salary of $200 per annum. Their business has so increased since that time, as to give the Postmaster a salary of $1,400, owing almost wholly to the increase of patronage to this firm. They have two commodious

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buildings, erected and especially arranged to meet the requirements of their business, in which they have three steam printing-presses, several hand-presses, lathes and other machinery, a full assortment of modern styles of type, and a large and complete stock of specialties. Their varied stock and extensive connection with the trade in the great commercial centers enable them to supply promptly all goods in their line. whether found on their regular lists or not. More of this firm will be round in the history of York Township. in this volume: In connection with the post office. J. R. Holcomb owns a grocery and provision store. This gentleman was married to Miss Minnie Damon. of Litchfield Township. in October, 1876. This lady died in 1878. and, some time afterward, Mr. Holcomb married Miss Hattie M. Nickerson. of Wadsworth. Mr. Holcomb is a prominent and influential man. and a stanch Republican in politics.

JOHN B. KNAPP, farmer ; P. O. Mallet Creek ; was born in Medina Township, Medina Co., Ohio. March 10, 1822. He is a son of Joseph and Betsey (Hagerman) Knapp, and grandson of John B Knapp, after whom our subject was named. Joseph Knapp was born in Otsego Co., N. Y.. Aug. 3, 1792. He lived with his parents in this county until 1810, when his mother died, and young Knapp packed all his possessions in a little bundle, which he carried over his shoulder, and thus started out, as many had before, to seek fame and fortune. his first stopping-place was in Dutchess Co., N. Y., and, liking the people, and the " lay of the and," young Knapp concluded to tarry awhile here. He was well received by the people, and, instead of going on as he expected, he remained there nine years, gaining a wife in the meantime. He was married in 1817, and two years later, started overland with his wife and two babies, for Ohio. His traveling outfit consisted of a horse hitched before a yoke of oxen, that were yoked to an old-fashioned wagon, in which were seated Mr. and Mrs. Knapp and family, with what little belonged to them. Thus quipped, they started on their long journey to Ohio, via Pittsburgh. They arrived in Medina Township, Medina Co., Ohio, in Oct. 1819, and immediately located at " Hamilton's Cersers," where they lived until March, 1833, when hey moved to York Township, and cleared and settled on the farm now owned by Lewis Molock. They had lived here but five months when the mother died, in August, 1833 Mr. Knapp remarried in July 1834, his wife being Betsey Lampson, who died October 1863. Mr. Knapp died May 1863. Mr. Knapp's union with his first wife, was blessed with these children—Sarah, Mary, Charles, John Zenas, Gilbert and Betsey. John B. lived wit' his parents until his mother's death, when he went to live with L. L. Chapin, with whom he remained until he reached his majority. He was married Jan. 11, 1854, to Sally M. Crawford, daughter of Josiah Crawford, and by her had the following family—Joseph L., one that died without being named, Charlie J., Emery J. (deceased), and Catharine R. Mrs. Knapp was born Feb. 9. 1832, and her folks were old settlers, coming to Medina Co. in 1821. Mr. Knapp is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Protestant Methodist Church.

THOMAS MILLER, farmer ; P. 0. Medina. The subject of this biography was born in Cambridgeshire, England, Feb. 24, 1826. He is a son of Robert and Ann (Poolly) Miller, who were also natives of England. Mr. and Mrs. Miller were parents of eleven children, all dying in childhood except four. Mr. Miller died, and was buried in England, in 1838. Mrs. Miller continued to reside in England until 1849. and then, complying with the request of friends in the United States. took three of her children and set sail for that country. After a long and eventful voyage of eight weeks on the Atlantic, and a total of ten weeks from the time they left England. Mrs. Miller and children arrived in Medina Co., Ohio, where her deceased husband's brother then lived. She purchased the farm now owned by her son. and immediately located on it. She continued to reside in Medina Co. until the time of her death, which event occurred at her daughter's residence in Medina, in, about 1871. This family, for some reason, has been very unfortunate, and, out of a large family of eleven, only the subject of this memoir is living. He was reared on a farm, working hard for the support of his widowed mother. In 1854. he married Miss Louisa Clara, and by her had two children—Robert W. C., and one daughter, who died in in-fancy. His wife died in 1856, and, Jan. 27, 1857, Mr. Miller was united in marriage with his present wife, Miss Sarah H. Clark, daughter of Robert and Mary (Slater) Clark. To this

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union were born eight children, as follows : Lizzie M., Ann M., John T., Laura M., David A., Susie B., Electa R., and Mattie, who died when 5 months old. Mrs. Miller was born in Derbyshire, England, July 18, 1834. This family is of pure English extraction, and there is not a more intelligent family in York. Mr. Miller owns 86 acres of land in York, and 21 acres in Medina Township. He is an earnest advocate in the advancement of education, and is an influential citizen. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church.

L. D. NETTLETON, farmer. Among the many excellent farms in York Township, Medina Co., Ohio, is that owned by L. D. Nettleton. This farm consists of 108 acres of finely improved farming and grazing land, and is situated in Tract No. 2, on the diagonal road running from Medina to York Center. Mr. Nettleton, the owner, is a native of Litchfield Co., Conn. He was born March 7, 1822. His parents, Daniel and Polly (Clark) Nettleton, came with their family to Medina Co. in 1832, and were among the pioneers of Medina Township. The names of their children are Clark. Derwin, Harmon, Noble, L. D. and Mary ; Harmon is now dead. Mrs. Nettleton departed this life in 1866, and, two years later, Mr. Nettleton joined her in the spirit land. These parents were among Medina Co.'s best and most honored citizens. They were members of the Congregational Church, and their death was deeply deplored by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. L. D. Nettleton passed his youth on a farm, receiving a good education. He was married, Oct. 6, 1846, to Charlotte Buckingham, and by her had a family of six children—Charles (dead), Frank, Winthrop, Willie (dead); James (dead) and Carrie (dead). The two sons, Frank and Winthrop, are both married, the former to May Holcomb, and the latter to Miss Fanny Baird, both living in York Township. Mr. Nettleton's wife died Nov. 14, 1861, and. April 1, of the next year, he married Mary Pritchard, daughter of Joseph Pritchard. The Pritchards were old settlers, coming to Medina Co. in 1820. Mr. Nettleton is a Republican in politics, and takes an active part in the advancement of education. Mr. Nettleton is an intelligent, enterprising farmer.

JOHN PEARSON, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Mallet Creek. The deeds of lineal antecedents are always of great interest to membersof a family who love to review the motives of their ancestors, and boast, in a quiet way, of having descended from a wise, a hardy or a noble stock. The details of family life are always interesting to its members, some taking a greater and some a lesser interest. No family in Medina Co. takes greater pains or more pride in their family record than does the family of John Pearson. Mr. Pearson was born in Rutland Co., Vt., June 6, 1825. He is a son of Arza and Achsah (Lampoon) Pearson, and grandson of Josiah and Sarah (Howe) Pearson, and great-grandson of John Pearson, for whom he was named. The Pearsons are of Scotch descent, the great-grandfather of our subject having come to the United States from Scotland early in 1700, and who, after living a long and eventful life, died peacefully at his home. Joshua, his son, was but a youth when the Revolutionary war between the Colonies and Great Britain broke out, and. his youthful blood being fired for the cause of liberty and justice, he immediately joined the command of Gen. Gates. He bravely participated in the battles of Bunker Hill, Beemis Heights, Stillwater, and many other noted engagements, serving through them all without being wounded. He finally died, after the close of the war, of a cancer. Arza Pearson, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born Dec. 7, 1799. He spent much of his youth in the backwoods, receiving but a moderate education. In 1822, he married, and this union was blessed with a family of seven children—Amelia L., John, Elizabeth, Mary A., G. C. and Lydia. living ; the one dead is Arza C. Elizabeth married Orlando Dickerman, a short sketch of whom appears in this work. The mother of these children was born in Massachusetts Oct. 17, 1799. In 1835, Arza Pearson and family moved into York Township, Medina Co., Ohio, it being then but a wilderness. He and wife are yet living, hale and hearty, and it is hoped that they may live many years to come. Mr. Pearson was quite an active politician and prominent man in his earlier years, serving at one time as County Commissioner. His son John, like himself, has always been a farmer. He was married to Miss Sarah Rowley in 1846, and by her had seven children—J. E., Eugene, Arza C. and Mary E., living, and James E., Olive E. and Charles F., dead. Mr. Pearson owns 160 acres of good land, and is a Repub-

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lican in politics. He and wife are members of the Congregational Church, and are prominent and influential citizens in the township.

EMORY PIERCE, farmer ; P. O. Mallet Creek ; is one of a family of eight children, and was born in Berkshire Co., Mass., Jan. 5, 1808. He is a son of Levi and Dolly (Thompson) Pierce, who came to York Township, Medina Co., Ohio, in 1840. Nine years after their arrival, smallpox commenced a work of destruction, and Mr. and Mrs. Pierce were among its victims. Emory Pierce passed his youth and early manhood on a farm, receiving a good common-school education. He was married, March 17, 1831, to Lydia M. Watkins, who died March 22, 1832. Aug. 2, 1832, he married his deceased wife's sister, Miss Rosilla Watkins, and by her had six children—Lydia M., wife of Martin Bowen ; Wilbur F., married to Martha Branch ; Ward N., married to Adelia Wilbur ; Orlin D., married to Mary Judson ; Martin T., who died in the army, and Martha, deceased. Wilbur, Ward and Martin were in the late war, Wilbur as Captain, and Ward as Commissary of Co. K, 8th 0. V. I. Martin L. served in Co. E. 10th 0. V. C., as Corporal, and died at Murfreesboro, Tenn., from disease contracted in the service. These three boys enlisted at an early period of the struggle, and no braver soldiers were there than these. Mr. Pierce's father, Levi Pierce, was a military man, and served with distinction as Captain in the war of 1812, and afterward in the State militia as Colonel. Mr. Pierce is a Republican in politics, and owns 170 acres of fine farming and grazing land. He and wife are members of the Congregational Church at York Center, and they are well-informed and highly respected citizens of York Township.

ARZA PEARSON, retired ; P. O. Mallet Creek ; whose name stands prominent among the few living pioneers of Medina Co., and whose portrait appears in this work, was born in Chittenden, Rutland Co., Vt., Dec. 7, 17 97. His father, Josiah Pearson, was born in Sterling, Worcester Co., Mass., June 24. 1755, and, at the breaking-out of the war of the Revolution, he entered the service of his country as a soldier. He participated in the memorable battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill, in the latter of which he received a flesh wound in one of his thighs ; this, however, did not disable him for service, as he was afterward in all the batties under Gen. Gates which resulted in the capture of Burgoyne's army. In 1812, when the country was once more in danger of invasion by a foreign foe, and when the cry of " Free trade and sailors' rights " was familiar to all loyal citizens, the old veteran again shouldered his musket in the cause of liberty and the rights of every American citizen, and helped to beat back Provost and drive the whole British army back into Canada. He became a pensioner of the Government, and died at the ripe old age of 81, in Chittenden, Vt. The boyhood of Arza was spent on a farm ; his advantages for attaining an education were very meager, consisting only of the imperfect schools in the country of that period. On the 18th of December, 1822, he was married to Miss Achsah Lampson, who was born Oct. 17, 1799, in Pittsford, Rutland Co., Vt. Shortly after their marriage, they began keeping house on a farm that Mr. Pearson rented and cultivated ; they continued to reside there until 1835, and, during that time, there were born to them four children, viz.: Amelia L., born Dec. 15, 1823 ; John, born June 6, 1825 ; Elizabeth. born May 6, 1827 ; and Mary A., born April 18, 1831. Not liking the cold winters of New England, Mr. Pearson, in the fall of 1833, came to Ohio, and spent some time looking over parts of Medina Co., in quest of a desirable locality-for a future home. He found it and returned to Vermont, determined to sell out and remove to Ohio. With this object in view, he, in the spring of 1835, sold his farm in Vermont, fitted out a strong two-horse wagon, and, with his family and household goods, started on a journey across the country to their new home. After a tedious ride of twenty-two days, they arrived, on May 31, 1835, at the Center of York Township, where, for a time, they stopped with Mr. R. M. Lampson, who was a brother of Mrs. Pearson, and who at that time kept a " tavern." Leaving his family at. York, Mr. Pearson started on horseback through Huron, Erie, Seneca and Lorain Cos. Being as well satisfied with the country about York as any he found on his prospecting tour, he purchased of one Philo Fenn a farm of 100 acres, lying one mile west of York Center, and to it removed his family on the last of June. Mr. Pearson has since retained the ownership of that property, and, at the present date, is living with his wife upon it. with their son-in-law, Mr. O. Dickerman. He has taken an

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active interest in building up and establishing churches and schools in York Township, and. to the former. he has contributed liberally toward the erection of four substantial buildings. He helped to "chop out'" the wagon road. both north and south, through the center of York Township, and he has lived to see the day that beautiful homes now dot the lands then covered by heavy timber. At the election held in the township in April of 1837, Mr. Pearson was elected Justice of the Peace. in which office he was subsequently continued for twenty-four years. In the year 1847. he was appointed Real Estate Assessor for the townships of Brunswick. Medina. Montville. La Fayette. Westfield and York. In 1850, he was appointed Assistant Marshal, under Gen. Jones. of Mt. Vernon. and took the census of the townships of Sharon. Granger, Hinckley, Brunswick, Medina. Liverpool. Spencer and York. In the summer of 1838. at the county convention, he was nominated. and. at the ensuing election in October, he was elected one of the Commissioners of Medina Co., which office he filled for three years to the entire satisfaction of all interested. He has always been a strong partisan. acting with the Whig party until the organization of the Republican party, of which he has since been an active member. Even now, though he is past 83 years of age. he takes an active interest in the political issues of the day, and in the prosperity of his country. Since their becoming residents of Medina Co., there have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Pearson three children—George C., the first of their Buckeye children, was born on Aug. 26, 1836 ; on April 29. 1838. Arza C. was born ; he lived to manhood, and. on July 17 , 1861, his death occurred. caused by consumption, this being the only death that has ever occurred in their family ; Aug. 21, 1840. Lydia A., their youngest child, was born. A happy event in their history was the celebration of their golden wedding, which occurred on Dec. 18, 1872. they having, at that date. lived together as man and wife for just fifty years. On this occasion, they were congratulated by their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom then living were present. Another nine years have been added to each of their lives since that event, and still they retain, to a remarkable degree, the possession of both their mental and physical powers. They are now the oldest living married couple inYork Township. and, possibly, the oldest in Medina Co. They have passed the limit allotted to man, and are now fast passing down the western slope of life. They have lived an eventful. useful and busy life. and are loved by their children, and held in high esteem by the people among whom they have lived so long.

GEORGE C. PEARSON, farmer ; P. 0. Mallet Creek : is a native of the township in which he lives. and was born Aug. 26. 1833. Arza and Achsah (Lampson) Pearson, his parents, are among the old and time-honored residents of York Township. and much of them and the Pearson family will be found in another part of this work. The subject of this biography passed his youth and early manhood with his parents. and. when his majority was reached, he embarked on his own responsibility. by working his father's farm until he was married. Oct. 15. 1862, he was united in marriage with Miss Lydia L. Drake. daughter of Daniel and Almira Drake. and by her had two children—Frank Leland. born in York Sept. 13, 1863, and Lulu May. born in York April 30. 1865. Mrs. Pearson was born in Dickinson. N. Y., Aug. 2. 1S41. and was one of a family of four children. Seymour, Sumner and Lyman being the three besides herself. The two former served in the late war. Seymour as Sergeant. Seymour died at Ft. Scott, from disease contracted in the army, while Sumner was killed by a ball from the enemy. at the battle of Winchester. Lyman is a teacher in the Reform School, at Plainfield. Ind. Mr. Pearson's wife died from consumption, in July, 1868. Mr. Pearson is the owner of 60 acres of good land. He is a Republican in politics. and an intelligent and enterprising citizen.

JESSE SEELEY, retired farmer; P. 0. Mallet Creek ; was born in Schoharie Co., N. Y., Aug. S. 1808. His father. David Seeley, was a native of Connecticut. and his mother. Ursula (Sweetman) Seeley. was a native of New Jersey. Jesse was raised on a farm, and, as his father's health was very poor, the care of the family fell upon his shoulders. as he was the eldest. He thus learned in early years to be self-reliant. which proved to be of great benefit in later years. He was married in Schoharie Co., N. Y.. to Miss Prudence Brown. Mr. Seeley is one in a family of twelve children ; Mrs. Seeley is one in a family of thirteen. and together they are the parents of fifteen children. They

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MRS. L. A. WARNER, Mallet Creek ; was born in Addison Co., Vt., July 25, 1816. Her parents were Zina and Betsey (Pierce) Dennison, who were parents of the following family : Laura A., George L. (deceased), Julia A., now wife of Lucius H. Warner. and Lucinda M., wife of John Depew. The father, Mr. Dennison. was born in Goshen, Conn., in 1790, and, when but a boy. moved with his parents to Waltham, Vt., where he was raised, and where he met her who afterward became his wife. She was born in Waltham, Vt. After their mar! riage. Mr. and Mrs. Dennison moved to Medina Co.. Ohio, remaining in a little log house opposite where F. T. Brintwall lives. in York Township, during the winter of 1833. In 1840, they removed to Litchfield Township, same county. where they lived until Mr. Dennison died, that event being April 10. 1872. Mrs. Dennison lived there a short time and then passed the remainder of her days with her children. She died in 1877. Laura. the eldest child. and the subject of this sketch, married Horace Warner. in 1840. he being a son of Johnson and Abigail (Munson) Warner. The Warners are natives of Connecticut. and Horace was born in Waterbury, in 1805. and to his union with Miss Dennison there were born five children—Elizabeth J.. Horace D., Emma L (died when 4 years old), Millard J. and Frank E. Elizabeth lives in Westfield Township. the wife of William Chivings. Horace married Isabel Smolk, and resides in Litchfield. Millard married Mary Goodrich, and also lives in Litchfield. Frank is single and lives at home with his mother. After her marriage with Mr. Warner, Mrs. Warner lived in Lorain Co., Ohio. until Mr. Warner died, his death being caused by consumption. In 1866, Mrs. Warner located on the farm she now owns and lives upon. This farm consists of 173 acres of good land. The Dennisons and Warners were excellent citizens, and Mrs. Warner and her children are today regarded as among the best in Medina Co. the " Hart Mill," in Richfield, Summit Co., Ohio. He remained there two years and then traded his mill for one in Wayne Co.. and soon traded that property for a mill in Lodi, Medina Co. In 1872, he exchanged this property for a mill in Weymouth and 104 acres of land. He had run this mill but one year. when it took fire and was burned to the ground. The general belief is that it was the work of an incendiary. Soon after the burning of his mill, Mr. Van Orman disposed of the land and in 1874. removed to York Center, where he began the building of a grist and saw mill combined. which has since been completed. The capacity of the grist-mill is about 300 bushels per day. while. that of the saw-mill is from 11,000 to 12.000 feet per day. It has an excellent 40-horse steam engine. and is prepared to do a general custom business. Mr. Van Orman was married June 16, 1851, to Miss Ann R. Young, of Granger Township, and by her had seven children—Francis F.. dead, Ida J., Norminda. Jennie, Richmond G., Wilna and one that died in infancy without being named. Ida married George Bruce ; Norminda married F. B. Smith, and both reside in York Center. Mrs. Van Orman was born June 14, 1839. in Granger Township. Mr. Van Orman enlisted August, 1862. in Co. C, 7th O. V. I.. and served faithfully in that regiment, when he was transferred, during the spring of 1864, to Co. D, 178th 0. V. I.. in which be served until the close of the rebellion. His final discharge was dated July 11, 1865. In the last regiment, to which he belonged, Mr. Van Orman served in the capacity of Sergeant. He participated in the battles of Stone River. Kingston and Leesburg, and was one of the brave men who captured the rebel Capt Grub and seventy men. Mr. Van Orman was an excellent soldier. and the least that can be done for the defenders of our country is to keep a record of their deeds that the future generation may read with interest the battles of their forefathers. and live over in their imagination the scenes of the past.

MRS. L. A. WARNER, Mallet Creek ; was born in Addison Co., Vt.. July 25, 1816. Her parents were Zina and Betsey (Pierce) Dennison, who were parents of the following family : Laura A., George L. (deceased), Julia A., now wife of Lucius H. Warner. and Lncinda M., wife of John Depew. The father, Mr. Dennison, was born in Goshen, Conn., in 1790, and, when but a boy. moved with his parents to Waltham, Vt., where he was raised, and where he met her who afterward became his wife. She was born in Waltham, Vt. After their marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Dennison moved to Medina Co.. Ohio, remaining in a little log house opposite where F. T. Brintwall lives, in York Township, during the winter of 1833. In 1840, they removed to Litchfield Township, same county. where they lived until Mr. Dennison died, that event being April 10. 1872. Mrs. Dennison lived there a short time and then passed the remainder of her days with her children. She died in 1877. Laura. the eldest child. and the subject of this sketch, married Horace Warner. in 1840. he being a son of Johnson and Abigail (Munson) Warner. The Warners are natives of Connecticut. and Horace was born in Waterbury, in 1805. and to his union with Miss Dennison there were born five children—Elizabeth J.. Horace D., Emma L (died when 4 years old), Millard J. and Frank E. Elizabeth lives in Westfield Township. the wife of William Chivings. Horace married Isabel Smolk, and resides in Litchfield. Millard married Mary Goodrich, and also lives in Litchfield. Frank is single and lives at home with his mother. After her marriage with Mr. Warner, Mrs. Warner lived in Lorain Co., Ohio. until Mr. Warner died, his death being caused by consumption. In 1866, Mrs. Warner located on the farm she now owns and lives upon. This farm consists of 173 acres of good land. The Dennisons and Warners were excellent citizens, and Mrs. Warner and her children are today regarded as among the best in Medina Co.