400 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

DR. W. C. COLE

was born June 3, 1815, in Jefferson County, New York, and while yet young was taken with his parents to Seneca County, where he spent his youth in the town of Tyre. He afterward went to Ontario, Canada, and studied medicine, finally graduating from the Medical University of New York in 1837. He at once commenced the practice of his .profession at Waterloo, but in 1840 came to Ohio, and, locating at Tiffin, practised until 1848, when he went to Detroit, Michigan, where he remained until 1854. At this time he went to Memphis, Tennessee, where he made his home, while practising throughout the Southwestern States. When the civil troubles broke out in 1860 lie was in Texas, but returned to Memphis that year, where he remained until 1863, when he suffered the loss of all his property, amounting to nearly $150,000, by fire. Up to this time he had taken no part in the war, but after his misfortune he came to Ohio in 1863, and went on duty in the Gcneral Hospital at Camp Dennison. He was afterwards transferred to hospital duty at Nashville, Tennessee, but in 1864 was compelled to resign on account of physical disabilities.. In the fall of 1867 he came to Mendon, where he spent one season in the treatment of special diseases. in 1870 lie purchased his present country home in this township, but leased it during scveral years, while he was practising at Shanesville and Van Wert. He at length removed to the old farm in the spring of 1881, and has so repaired and improved it as to render it as pleasant a home as the community can boast. Here he designs practising, in the treatment of patients for special diseases, as Ile is prepared to hoard and lodge those from a distance who may desire his treatment. Here lie will make a specialty of surgery in the treatmcnt of the eyes, fever sores, varicose ulcers, and such other maladies as are not generally specially treated by physicians. He has had a wide experience in treatment of such cases, commencing with 1840, when he performed a successful operation upon cross eyes, about the same time it was first successfully performed in Europe. He was married April 8, 1838, in Cayuga County, New York, to Miss Sarah De Camp. His wife died, while three sons and one daughter survived tier. In 1857 he married Mrs. ParmaIli, who subsequently died, leaving one child, who is still living, In 1870 lie was married to Miss Pampel, of Shanesville, who is still living. His children by this marriage are two daughters.

DR. D. F. PARROTT

came to this township in 1830 from Fayette County, Ohio, where he was born Feb. 8, 1822. His father lived here about eleven years, and then went to Iowa, where lie still resides. His mother died in 1871. Five of their children are still living, of whom G. 0. Parrott and our subject are still in this township, the others being in Iowa. The Doctor worked on the fare) until he reached the age of twenty-two, when he began the study of medicine, which he pursued as his opportunities would permit until his twenty-eighth year, when he commenced the practice of his profession in 'Piqua. lie remained at Piqua only about four months, however, when he came to Mendon, and finally went to Willshire, where lie practised about six months, and went to Iowa. Two years later lie attended the lecture course at Cincinnati, after which he went to Fayette County, and practised two years. tie married Margaret H. McKinney, of Clermont County, Dec. 21, 1853, and in 1856 returned to Mendon, where he has since practised medicine except during the period of army service, having served as private in Company K, One Hundred and Eighteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from Oct. 8, 1862, to June 15, 1865. While in the army he was detached for hospital duty as dispenser. At Mossy Creek, Tenn., he was placed in charge of the ambulance corps during the engagement. lie has but one child living, named Charles Sumner. When we last met the old Doctor lie was actively engaged in superintending the erection of an extensive tile factory, which he proposes operating about a half-mile south of Mendon.

SAMUEL NICKOLS,

a native of Union Township, Belmont County, Ohio, was born September 26, 1822. .1n April, 1851, he moved to Richland County, where he re- mained until August 16, 1852, when he settled in thiS county. There were then no roads here worth the name, the old trails answering the purpose of roads. He still lives on the farm to which lie first moved, there being at that time but three sticks cut off it. The farm now consists of 420 acres, and is well improved, having as good buildings as any farm in the township.

He married Sarah Ann Dillon, .January 30, 1845, she being also a native of Belmont CoUnty. Their family consisted of nine children, of whom but three survive. They were named, Emmeline (deceased), Anna Elrzabeth (deceased), William (deceased), Logan (deceased), John (deceased), Asa (deceased Maria Adeline, Mary Ada, and Tabitha Jane. Maria, A. is the wife of Jesse Nclson, of this township.

Of the deceased children, all except Emmeline died in the year 1860, within seventeen days, of diphtheria, that fell and awful destroyer of human life.

MOSES COLLINS

came from Fayette County, Pennsylvania, to Dayton, Ohio:, 1837 and. the next year to the present village of Mercer, where he operate, an ashery and kept a supply store. The rcmainder of his life was de voted to these enterprises at this place. He married Emily Shallenerger in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, July 25, 1824. Their eta dren's names are as follows: Isaac W. Collins, Jacob S. Collins, David S. Collins; George W. Collins, henry A. W. Collins, Cyrus B. Collins. All are dead except Henry A. W. Collins and Cyrus B. Collins. Moses Collins died January 25th, 1854 Emily Collins died December 15th 1856.

C. B. COLLINS,

a son of the above, was born in Mercer, in the old red house now occupied by Dr. Adams, in August, 1841. He remained at home until 1865, when he moved to the Custer farm, in Union Township, where he lived until 1869, when he moved to Mendon, and engaged in the drygoods trade in the building now occupied by Collins & Collins, hardware merchants. Here he continued business about five years, when he moved to the small farm northwest of Mention, but after a short period to present home-farm in sections 32 and 33, which consists of 359 acres. He was in the military service from May 2d to September, 1864, during which period,. he served as third sergeant Company K, 156th Ohio National Guards, which formed the 80th Battalion at home. Since moving to his present farm he has dealt extensively in all kinds of live stock, and is to-day the leading stock-dealer in the county. A.t the time he moved to his home-farm it was without any buildings worth the name, whereas it is now well improved, and supplied .with all necessary buildings, as will fully appear by reference to engraving elsewhere in this volume. Since 1869 he has held the office of township treasurer. On July 1, 1865, he married Jerusha L. Marlin, who died July 2, 1866.

Was remarried October, 1869, to Halie Davis, a daughter of Samuel Davis, of Centre Township.

THOMAS PARROTT

was born April 25, 1798, in Coke County, Tenn. When fifteen years of age he came to Fayette County, O., where he remained until 1822, when he came to present, limits of Union Township. He first settled at month of Twelve-mile Creek, at present site of Mendon, where he lived about thirty years. He and Justin Hamilton, as shown elsewhere, were the original proprietors and founders of Guilford, which name they subsequently changed to Mendon. After leaving Mendon he moved to the farm east of town, where he spent the remainder of his life. He was here visited by the writer in the fall of 1880 and found to still take lively interest in the community he had helped so long to develop. Since that time we have learned of his death, which occurred Dec. 21, 1880. He was married in 1819 to Elizabeth Coil, who died in 1863. Their family consisted of nine children, as follows: Andrew, John H., Elizabeth, Joseph, Wesley, Lavina, Howard, Amelia (dec'd), and Sophronia (dec'd). Andrew was probably the first white child born in this township.

DR. A. J. LININGER

was born in Mansfield, Ohio, Aug. 7, 1842, and at the age of ten years was brought to this county, when his parents settled in Centre Township, where his father died in 1878. He remained at his father's about four years after coming to this county, when he left home and changed about for some years. On Nov. 26, 1861, he entered the army as private in Company A, in which he served until Dec. 6, 1864. In 1868-9 he graduated from the Medical College of Cleveland, since which time he has practised his profession at Mendon, except during about six months spent in Van Wert. He married Maria J. Morrow, of Hopewell Township, in .Jan. 1869. Their family consists of four children, named, respectively, 'Wm. Franklin, Bella Iona,, Charlie Elden, and Harry Clayton. In the spring of the present year (1881), the Doctor purchased the new hotel building at Mendon, which lie has furnished and opened to the public, thus adding another feature to the growing interests of the town. The "Union House" will supply one want of the town, and the Proprietor fully understands the demands of his business.

CHRISTIAN MAURER,

an extensive farmer on the west limits of Mendon, was born November 29, 1829, at Wittenberg, Germany, and at the age of sixteen came to Ohio and settled in Tuscarawas County, where he lived until 1854, when he came here and located on present home-farm. In 1848 he married Yronick Morbaugh, who was born in Switzerland, but came to this country when thirteen years of age, at which time her parents settled in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Mr. Maurer's first entry of land comprised 122 acres, while he now owns 448 acres. The family consists of five children, named Elizabeth, Susan, Mary, Lydia, and John. Elizabeth is married to Frederic High, and. Mary to Wm. Teagle.

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 403

G. W. WOODIN

was born in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, February 4, 1.S39. In 1846 he came to Cincinnati with his stepfather, but two years later came to Neptune, where he learned the blacksmith trade, at which he worked until he entered the military service, in Company D, 71st O. V. I., October 19, 1861. He remained in the service untie mustered out, December 16, 1864, when hc returned home, and at once located at Mention, where be still works at his old trade. lie married Sarah A. Rathbun, of this county, but a native of Pennsylvania. Their famrly numbered six children, of whom five are still living. Their names are as follows : John R., George N., Ettie Dora, Ella, Louis (deceased), and Libbie.

Mr. Woodin is an industrious, hard-working man, and bcsides enjoying life for he sees it at its happiest-he has secured a pleasant home for himself and family, a view of which appears elsewhere in this volume.

JOHN BEVAN

was born in Wales in February, 1839. About 1840 his parents came to Pittsburgh, but the next year came on to Cincinnati, where they remained until 1860, when they moved to Gallia County, and six years later to Ironton, Ohio, where his father still resides. Our subject remained in Gallia County until Oct., 16, 1861, when he entered the military service, in which he continued until May 6, 1S66. During the last two years he was quarter-master sergeant, belonging to Company E, Fifty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After leaving the army he returned to Ironton, where he remained until July, 1868, when he camc to Mention and opened a drug store, in which business he is still engaged. Ilc was married in March, 1867, to Anna Price. They have three children, named Maggie, Elizabeth, and Leah.

JOHN A. MURLIN

was born in Hardin County, Kentucky, October 21, 1843, and came to this State in 1853. During the last nine years has been engaged in mercantile pursuits, having clone business about seven years at Deep Cut, part of which time he was in partnership with J. H. Dunathan. He then retired to his farm about two years, when he again entered business in Mendon, where he is now engaged in the clothing, hat and cap, and boot and shoe trade. Irk December, 1801, he entered the military service its private in Company F, 46th O. V. I., and borc a captain's commission at the time of his discharge, in July, 1865. In 1$66 he married Isabelle Hamilton, of this county. Their family consists of five children, named Enola, Saloam, Aura, Raymond, and Walter.

MICHAEL MILLER,

one of the early settlers of the township, as elsewhere shown, was born Fayette County, Ohio, July, 1s21, and (lame here in November, 1829, Lis parents being both dead. For some time after coming here he made home at George Wilson's, anothcr pionerr from Fayette. When he became nineteen years old he went to Wm. Hamilton's, where he made his about four years. He was married April 6, 1845, to Mary A. Shepherd, of this township. His children were named H. P., Amanda A. (deceased), :George M., Mary C., Silas E., and James E. (deceased). Those who are still living are married and settled in this community.

I. B. ROBBINS

was born in present limits of Auglaize County, November 12, 1838. In the spring of 1866 he moved to Allen County, where he lived until 1869, when he came to this township. In 1876 lie turned his attention to the breeding of short-horn cattle, in which business lie is still engaged. He was married in May, 1866, to Jennie M. Hussey, of this township. Their children number four, and are named Harry, Josie, Charlie, and Lewis. He scrved as captain of Company E, 118th O. V. I., from July, 1862, to July, 1865, under an enlistment for "three years, or during the war," and by something of a coincidence his discharge bears date exactly three years after date of enlistment.

LUCIUS HAMILTON

was born in this township April 2, 1825, and has lived here all his life. He was married Feb 29, 1860, to Mary E. Miller, who was formerly of Miami County, O. Their family consists of eight children, all living. They are named, Henry O., Marcus A., Ida M., Almira L., Ellen R., Hera B., Mary A., and Cora E. J.

J. M. HUSSEY

was born in Highland County, Ohio, July 25, 1829, and came to this township in 1839 with his parents, who settled on the Robbins farm. in 1854 he married .Miss C. Seven's, formerly of .Miami County, Ohio. The family consisted of the following named children : Arthur W., Edgar P., Wm. J., Walter (deceased), Alice, and Nora.

CHRISTIAN WERTZ,

an old settler of this township, came here from Montgomery County; Ohio, in 1837. Ile was born in Pennsylvania, February 8, 1808, and was brought to Preble County, Ohio, when six mouths old. After coming to this township he worked at the potter trade for some years, but eventually purchased laud and turned his attention to farming. He was married in 1832 to Mary Neighly, of Treble County, Ohio. They have raised six children, named Nelson, Elizabeth, William, Peter, David, and Albert. These arc all away from home, time only person living with the old folks being Florence Green, an adopted daughter.

G. G. PARROTT

was born in Fayette County, Ohio, October 28, 1828. In 1840 he went to Iowa ; ten years later to Oregon, and the next year to California. In 1856 he returned from the Pacibic coast, and settled in this township. lie served as private in Company K, 156th O. V. I., from May to August, 1864. In 1857 he married Rachel E. Hussey who died in in May, 1865. March, 1867, he married Susan Gilliland. of Van Wert County. His family by his first wire consisted of Denton C., Marietta (dcceased), and Laura, and by last wire, Milton A., David A., and Margaret L.

JOHN CUSTER.

was born March 23, 1823, in Warren County, Ohio, and brought here by the removal of his parents when about three years of when they settled in Dublin Township. lie moved to this township in 50, settling first at Mention, wherc he worked at the blacksmith trade about eleven years, when he moved to the farm. Ile served as private in Company K. One Hundred and Fifty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In 1849 he married Elizabeth Mathers, who died some years later. Again he married Tabitha C. Rider, who is still living. His children are maned Alexander S., Mary Ellen, Minerva Emma, and Oliver E.

THOMAS PALMER

was born iii Miami County, O., March 4, 1819, and came to the farm where hc now lives in 18:32. After twenty years spent here he went across the plains to California in 1852, where he spent five years in Eldorado County, ten years in Nevada County, and eight years in Placer County, being occupied all the time in mining and lumbering. On his return he was able to come by rail, the Pacific road being then constructed. When his father came to this county he bought 740 acres of land, but the farm now comprises 800 acres, being occupied by our subject and his brother Joseph and. sister Hulda, threc children of their father's family being dead, named Permelia, John, and Benjamin.

THOMAS UPTON,

one of the early settlers of the township, was born on Feb. 18, 1810, in Greene County, Ky., but his parents moved to Hardin County when he was about four years old. While yet unmarried he came to this township, and after teaching and working hcre some time returned to Kentucky in 1838 and married Margaret Shepherd March 21, 1839, when he came back and settled on section 35. His wife died June 20, 1845, and children by first marriage were named, Cicero, Mary, Angeline, Quintilla, and Margaret Jane. Those by present wife: Sarah M., Jane, Thomas E., and Maria.

FRANK S. COLLINS

was born in Shanesville, Nov. 25, 1852, and has lived in the county all his life. During the past two years he has been engagcd in the hardware business in Mendon. Previous to entering this business he had lived on his farm about two years, which followed three years devoted to the dry-goods trade. He is now in the hardware trade with H. A. W. Collins. Ile was married in January, 1873, to Miss H. E. Murlin, of Auglaize County. They have but one child, named Maude L.

H. A. W. COLLINS

was born in Mercer, December .6, 1839. After leaving home he first entered the grocery business at Mendon, but in 1867 went West, and changed about (luring a period of twelve years, when he returned and entered the hardware business with Frank S. Collins at Mendon, in which lie is still engaged. In October, 1861, he entered military service as private in Company D, 71st O. V. I., from which he was discharged in December, 1864.

IRA CISCO

was born in Shelby County, Ohio, May 10, 1827, and came to this township about the year 1855. In 1849 he married Miss Mertha Small. Their family consists of four children, named Emeline H., Rosetta B., Lewis, and Elizabeth.

404 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

J. W. DUTTON

was born in Miami County, Ohio, November 3, 1833, and was brought here by his parents while he was yet less than a year old. lie has been engaged here as farmer, merchant, and real estate dealer all his life. In January, 1856, he married Elizabeth Chevington, who died soon after, and he marricd again January 5, 1859, Sarah Grant. They have five children living, named Sophronia (Belle), Elizabeth, Wm. E., Thomas W., and Pearl Eola.

J. P. PATTERSON

was born in Madison County, O., Feb. 26, 1836, and was brought to Centre Township by the removal of his parents when about six months old. Shortly afterwards they came to Union Township, wherc Mr. P. still resides. He was married Jan. 1, 1860, to Orlida Northup, of Lorain County, O. Their children are, Maggie, Belle, Charlic, and an infant son. He served as a private in Company K, 88th O. V. I., from June 30, 1863, to July 4, 1865.

JOHN UPTON

belongs to the class of early settlers who came here from Hardin County, Ky., in 1833. He was born in Kentucky May 17, 1824. In 1853 or '54 he settled where lie now resides, on the road leading from Mendon to Deep Cut. He married Martha A. Hussey, of this township, Nov. 7, 1650. Their family numbered the following named children : Viola J., Elmore G., Ida May, Lucretia Etta, Minnie A., Eunice Emma, William E., Thomas E., Winnie Lee, and Athena (dec'd).

JOHN EDGE

was born in Fayette County December 15, 1815, and in 1836 came to this township, settling on section 15, but in 1850 moved to section 23, where he now lives. He married Mary Ann Emanuel January 19, 1630. They raised two children, named Mary E. and Rachel E. His wife died in November, 1868, and August 2, 1869, he married Sarah F. Edge, who is still living. Her children by a former marriage were named Granville F. and Edwin Ellsworth Edge.

JOHN R. FRYER

was born in Wayne County, 0., Sept. 21, 1842, and brought here when six months old, since which he has been a permanent resident. He was married Dec. 14, 1864, to Hannah Griffin. Their children are Charles, F rookie, and Ida. He served as private in Company F, 46th O. V. 1., from Nov. 1861 to Jan. 1863, when hc was discharged on account of wounds received at Pittsburg Landing, where he was captured and held in prison seven months.

HUGH HAMILTON

was born in this township May 16,1832, his father being one of the early settlers. He was married. Jan. 3, 1857, to Angeline Dobson, of Auglaize County. Their children ale named, Allison, Marietta, and Joseph H. Mr. H. served in the army as corporal of Company K, 88th 0. 17. I., from June 30, 1863, to July 3, 1865. He is an enterprising and influential citizen of the township, and is now a member of the Board of Trustees.

JOHN PRICE

was born in Wales, and came to this country and settled at Newark, Ohio. From there he came to this township in 183. His son, J. J. Price, was born at Steubenville, Ohio, August 15, 1822, and came here with his parents. Ile was married April 22, 1850, to Louisa Tracy, of Licking County.. Their children are Basil T., John W., Mary Ellen, Elizabeth. C., Lucius W., Sarah J., Isaac V., Orion (dec'd), and Lydia (dec'd).

HUGH L. HAMILTON

was born in Centre Township, October 20, 1845. In April, 1877, he moved to this township, where lie still resides. He was married October 23, 1860, to Lydia Patterson. Their family consists of three sons and three daughters. Mr. Hamilton was in military service from February 14 to August 10, 1805.

JOHN SMALL

was born in Montgomery County, O., in 1831. While yet young he came to Shelby County, 0., and from there to this township in 1853. He was married July 2, 1857. His children are named, Fideles E., Louis C., Appellus, Ensell Wade, Alonzo, and Ella.

HENRY CISCO

was born in Butler County Nov. 18, 1823, and came to Shelby County while young, and finally to this township in 1,854. Married in 1849 to Catharine Small, of Shelby County. Their children are: Abram, William, Annie, Frances E., and Perry.

SAMUEL WENGER

came to this township in 1854. He was born in Switzerland in 1832 and came to this country when twenty-two years of age. His wife was Catharine Carroll. Of their children, three are living and two dead named as follows: Ada Maria, Emma M., Reuben E., Jacob @col): and Mary (dec'd).

HENRY CLAY

came here from Wayne County in 1840. When about six months old he had been brought from Cumberland County, Pa., where he was born May 17, 1826. In 1857 he married Sarah Ann Yocum, of Wayne County, O. Their children are named Mary E., Stephen A., William P., Emma J.; and Eva, all of whom are living.

J. W. PRESHO

came here as early as 1830, since which he has been a permanent resident. He was born in Ontario County, N. Y., March 29, 1839. He served as private in Company K, 156th O. V. I., from May 2 to Sept. 1804. In Sept. 1856 he married Emily Rider. Their children are named Martha, Alonzo, and Francis. Mr. P. has served as justice of the peace since 1879.

H. H. HUSSEY

was born in Highland County, 0., Sept. 24, 1833, hut was brought to this township by his parents before he was a year old. He has resided here all his life, and is an extensive farmer. He married Sarah E. Shepherd Sept. 4, 1855. Thcy have reared a, family of six children, named, Albertus C., Eva, Solon, Elroy, Cora, and Samuel.

J. H. COIL

is an old resident of the township, having been born here Nov. 6, 1832. He was married at the age of twenty to Sarah Shearer, also of this township. Their children were named, Andrew, Sarah E., John, Catharine, Jacob, Edwin, Henry, and William. His wife died in 1871, and he has since married Susan Krugh, who is still living.

J. H. PARROTT

was born in this township November 10, 1840, and has lived here all his life. In 1862 he married Miss C. T. Raudabaugh. Their family numbers five children, named Ellen, Emma, Oscar, Alfred, and Etta. Parrott served as private in Company K, 156th O. V. I., from May to August, 1864.

DUBLIN TOWNSHIP.

Dublin Township lies on the north line of the county, and is bounded east by union, south by Hopewell. and west by Block Creek townships, and has an area of thirty-six square miles. It was organized June 1824. It is crossed by the St. Marys River, which flows from the east side by a winding course to the northwest part of the township. The soil is of the same fertile character as the whole north part of the county, and is very largely cultivated. The T. D. and B. Narrow Gauge R. R. passes from its crossing of the east line of the township to Shane's Crossing, which is its present western terminus, although the present year will probably see this branch of the road carried forward to the village of Wiltshire, in Van Wert County, where it will intersect the main east and west line of the road. Passing through the village of Mercer, the road turns south, crosses the south line of the township, and passes on to Dayton by Celina, thus forming the main north and south line of the road, extending from Toledo to Dayton. The township has thus two railroad towns, Shane's Crossing east and west division of the road, while Mercer is at the junction of this division and the main line running north and south.

Early Settlement.

During the War of 1812 several Indians had lodges about the present site of Shane's Crossing, among these being Anthony Shane, Louis Godfrey, Crescent, Labadie, and Rushville. There were also others, who had land assigned them after the land sales of the " northwest.” These Indians were always friendly, and rendered every possible service to the government. Reservations or grants of land were made to several of these Indians near the present village of Shane's Cross1ic:4. Among these was a grant of one section of land on the banks of the, of Marys River at Shane's Crossing, to Anthony Shane ; six sections land on the north side of the St. Marys River, above the reservation of Shane, to Louis Godfrey; one section on the north side of the St. Marys,

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 407

and below the section granted to the Crescent, to the chief, Charlie ; one section on the St. Marys, below the section granted to Charlie, to Peter Labadie ; and to Alexander T. Godfrey and Richard Godfrey, adopted children of the Potawatamie tribe, one section of the tract ceded to the United States by the Potawatainies, Ottawas, and Chippewas. This bcing thc special rcquest of Alcxander and Richard, they were given the right to choose and locate said section of land within said ceded tract, after a survey should be made. This choice and location was afterward made within the present limits of Dublin Township. These lands have all since passed into the hands of the whites, either by gift or purchase. L. G. Roebuck was given a tract of land by Godfrey because of. his being a namesake. The remainder of the Godfrey grant was purchased by Wm. B. Hedges, one of the earliest permanent settlers of this section. Hedges was clerking for a Frenchman named Madore, who had established a trading-post at Shane's Crossing, which was the first store of any kind in the township. The first white settlement was made in 1819, immediately after the cession of lands under the treaty of St. Marys. Among the first settlers, or those who came in 1819 and 1820, were Wm. B. and John P. Hedges, from Kentucky. John P. afterward married the daughter of an Indian chief, and settled at Fort Wayne. Wm. B. married the daughter of John Graves, who had come from Athens County, Ohio. About thc same date came Dr. Lilley, Samuel Lilley, Jonathan Antonides, Anson Godard and sons, John and Ebenezer; John, Ruel, and Benjamin Roebuck; Michael Harner, Samuel Harrison, Wm. Baker, John Van Gundy, John Sutton, John Chevington, Peter Distill, Calvin Denison, Isaiah Duncan, .Joseph Grier, and Jacob Baker. In 1821-2, David Hays, Joseph Henkle, Timothy Green, and Col. A. It. Hunter moved here, and settled on or near Shane's Prairie. This prairie is a tract about six miles east and west and four miles north and south along the St. Marys River, within the present limits of Dublin Township. Of other early settlers we may mention David Work, John Lilley, Joel Wood, and .J. W. Stoker. Coming here, these early settlers found Anthony Shane on his reservation, occupying a double log-house on the north side of the river, a short distance from the present site of Shane,s Crossing. 'Hero he made something of an improvement, and remained until 1832, when he accompanicd the Shawnees to Kansas as a government agent. Other Indians also occupied lodges upon the reservations within the township. Madore, the French trader, was here trading with the Indians, and readyto trade with the settlers on their arrival. Wm. B. Hedges became a clerk in this trading-post. for which the goods were obtained at Piqua, being transported by wagon to St. Marys, and thence by water to Shane's Crossing. Hedges afterward served as county commissioner and surveyor, and was justice of the peace for many years. David. Work opened a tannery on his arrival, and afterward did a large business. Wm. Baker was the pioneer blacksmith, and worked on the farm now owned by John Shellenberger. John W. Stoker was one of the early mail carriers between Piqua and Fort Wayne, and often passed over the route on foot carrying the mail on his back. Drs. Tippie and Budd were the earliest physicians of the town. Joseph Green taught the first term in district No. 2, and was paid by subscription. Lovinski Circassian Ninham, an Indian who was educated by Abraham Shingle-decker, Sr., for the ministry, taught a school northeast of Shane's Crossing.

Louis Godfrey, who obtained a reservation here, lived on the north bank of the St. Marys, in the Indian village " Old Town," located about one and a half miles up the river from Shane's Crossing. Shanesville was the first town laid out in the county.

Explanation of the plat of the town of Shanesville, laid out on land grantcd by the United States to Anthony Shane, on the St. Marys River. Main Street runs due north and south from the south side of the lots to Front Strect, and is five poles wide. Franklin Street runs the same dircction south to Front Strect, and is three and one half poles wide, etc. etc.

In testimony whereof, Anthony Shane hath hereunto set his hand and seal as proprietor of said town, this twenty-third (23) day of June, 1820.

A. SHANE.

Signed in the presence of JOHN BEERS.

The State of Ohio, Darke County : Before me, the undersigned, a justice of the peace within and for said county.

JOHN BEERS, J. P.

This town and Willshire were the first towns located and occupied in this part of the State after the founding of Piqua. Lima, Van Wert, Sidney, Kenton, Findlay, and Ottawa, all seats of justice in their respective counties, are of more recent origin. Among those who first entered land on Shane's prairie may be mentioned Isaac Coil, John and Jesse McChristy, John K. Evans, Eli Compton and son Ellin', Brewster, Trellis, Updyke, and Hitchner. Smith H. Clark and wife also came here at an early day. Of the early settlers it may be said, they came for the most part from Ross, Warren, and Athens counties, Ohio, and from Kentucky. Many of these were natives of New York and other Eastern States.

Incidents.

The first term of court held in Mercer County was convened at Shanesville, by Judge Low and associate Judges James Wolcott, Joseph and Thomas Scott. Judge Wolcott at this time lived at Willshire, having married a daughter of Captain Wm. Wells, an officer in the army of General Wayne. Captain Wells had married a sister of the celebrated chief Little Turtle, which, associated with the fact that Judge Wolcott married a woman who was part Indian, is probably the origin and foundation of the report that the judge was himself of Indian desccnt. This is the statement of fact as made by one who was personally acquainted with the judge in 1825 and 1826.

Marriage —The first marriage was undoubtedly that of James Duncan and Sarah Roebuck, as they belonged in this township, although the ceremony was not performed here. The reason for this was good enough, as there were no ministers in the township. They therefore started on foot to Wapakoneta, and were married by the Quaker missionary, Isaac Harvey. Ou their return they were overtaken by the shades of night, and on discovering an abandoned Indian hut, near the present town of Kossuth, they entered it, and concluded to pass the night. Having his gun with him, James kept watch during the night that the wolves might not approach to harm the fair sleeper within the hut. The next day- their travel was retarded by the condition of the road, or rathcr trail, and they were obliged to camp out the following night, somewhere between the sites of Mercer and Mention. This time- Sarah took the rifle and acted as sentinel during the night, while .James, much exhausted by the walk, and wakefulness of the preceding enjoyed a sound night's sleep. We know some of our older readers will say such things do not occur to-day, but that the young folks must either travel by carriage or rail; and they are right. But will they assume those "good old times" are preferable to the better times we now enjoy ? Had they thought so, the forest would still be here, and the early settlers would have spared themselves much labor and pain. They however worked and labored on for the bencfit of their posterity, and may be congratulated upon their success, while those who. strll survive may rejoice to see their children enjoying, as common comforts, such things as in those days were luxuries beyond the reach of all.

First Flour. Mill. —The first flour mill erected on the St. Marys within the township was built by John Rhodes.

The Old Store.—It may not be wasted time to cast a glance at an old account book of John Greaves, who became a merchant at an early day, immediately succeeding Anthony Madore, the pioneer trader. We extract a few accounts, and present them as they appear in the original books.

Account Book of John Greaves.

ANTHONY MADORE, Dr.

Valuation and Taxation.

In June. 1824, John P. Hedges was appointed County Treasurer, and appointed Samuel Hanson a deputy, who was to collect all the taxes of Mercer and Van Wert Counties for the sum of $5.00. The valuation of lots in Shanesville was $20.87, while the whole township tax was $46.66. Let this exhibit be compared with the abstract of appraisement for 1880, which is hereafter submitted.

Organization.

The township was organized in 1824, and then included the whole north part of the county. Other

townships were afterward struck off and organized, until Dublin was reduced to the regular size, containing thirty-six square miles.

List of Officers.

Our search failed to discover any official records antedating 1839. "Under date of April 1,1839, we find the following record:-

“We certify that the number of voters at this election are 71.

H. G. BLossom,

A. J. PETRO,

P. S. HITCHNER

Judges.

Attest—) No. B. WEBB,

ELIHU COMPTON,

Clerks.

At this election the following-named officers were duly elected : Trustees, Philip S. Hitchner, Asa J. Petro, and Horatio G. Blossom. Clerk, A. R. Hunter. Treasurer, David Hays.

At the election held October 8, 1839, 72 votes were cast. Robert Wiley and John R. Webb served as clerks, and P. S. Hitchner, Asa J. Petro, and Robert Grant as judges.

Election April 6, 1840. Clerks, Smith H. Clark and Elihu Compton. Officers elect : Justice of the Peace, Asa J. Petro. Trustees, P. S. Hitchner, H. G. Blossom, and A. Miller. Treasurer, David

Clerk, G. S. Barks.

October 14, 1840, 148 votes were cast.

At the April election, 1841, 91 votes were cast, and the following officers elected: Trustees, P. S. Hitchner, H. G. Blossom, and Abraham Miller. Treasurer, David Hays. Clerk, G. S. Barks.

October 12, 1841, 95 votes were cast.

At the election April 4, 1842, the number of votes was 87, with the following result : Trustees, Hitchner, Blossom, and Miller. Clerk, J. H. Banks. Trcasurer, David Hays.

October 11, 1842, 106 votes were cast. For Justice of the Peace Elihu Compton, 61 votes, and Lawrence Fulton, 45 votes were cast.

April 3, 1843. For Justice, Asa J. Petre, 77 votes were cast ; David Work, 56 ; W. B. Hedges, 43. Trustees, Abraham Miller, 92; Hanson Hays, 86 ; Jacob Primby, 58 ; Scattering, 29. Treasurer, David Hays 63. Clerk, J. H. Barks, 79.

October 10, 1843, 100 votes were cast.

April 1, 1844, 103 votes were cast. Trustees, Miller, Primby, and Harrison Hays. Clerk, G. S. Barks. Treasurer, David Hays.

October 8, 1844, 101 votes were cast.

November 1, 1844, 121 votes were cast. Polk and Dallas, 61 ; Clay and Frelinghuysen, 60.

April 7, 1845. Trustees, Miller, Primby, and Hays. Clerk, G. S. Barks. Treasurer, David Hays.

October 14. For Justice of the Peace, Elihu Compton, 37 votes were cast; Solomon Stake, 5 votes were cast.

April 6, 1846. Justice of the Peace, W. B. Hedges and A. G. Petro. Trustees, Joseph Sidenbender, A.. Miller, and Harmon Hays. Treasurer, David Hays. Clerk, C. W. Alexander.

October 12, 98 votes were cast.

April 5, 1847, 82 votes were cast. Trustees, Sidenbender, Miller, and Hays. Treasurer, David Hays. Clerk, C. W. Alexander.

October 12, 90 votes were cast.

April 3, 1848, 126 votes were cast. Trustees, Sidenbender, Miller, and Hays. Treasurer, David Hays. Clerk, C. W. Alexander.

October 10, 1848, 132 votes were cast.

November 7, 1848, 145 votes were cast. Cass, 89 ; Taylor, 56.

April 2, 1849, 111 votes were cast. Justice of the Peace, Asa J. Petro and W. B. Hedges. Trustees, Harrison Hays, Eli Compton, and A. W. McClung. Treasurer, David Hays. Clerk, J. H. Barks.

October 9, 1849, 58 votes were cast.

November 13, 1849, 36 votes were cast. Held to elect a successor to F. G. Dugdale, justice of the peace, deceased. Elihu Compton, 33 W. R. Davis, 3.

April, 1850, 115 votes were cast. Trustees, A. Van Gundy, Jacob Counterman, J. Halenberger. Treasurer, David Work. Clerk, C. W. Alexander.

October 8, 1850, 88 votes were cast.

April 7, 1851, 105 votes were cast. Trustees, old hoard re-elected. Treasurer. same. Clerk, same.

June 17, 1851, 124 votes were cast. For the new Constitution, "yes," 53 ; No," 71.

Same date, 105 votes were cast on liquor question. For license to sell. " yes," 78 " no,'' 27. This election was held in the village of :Mercer.

October 14, 1851., 120 votes were east.

April 5, 1852, 95 votes were cast. Justice of the Peace. C. W. Alexander and Wm. Dilbone. Treasurer, David Work. Clerk, G. F. Borchers. Trustees, J. Counterman. Alex. Eicher, A. Van Gundy.

October 12, 1852, 140 votes were cast. Justice of the Peace, Elihu Compton, re-elected.

November 2, 1852, 182 votes were cast. Pierce, 103 ; Scott, 79.

April 4, 1853, 108 votes were cast. Trustees, same board. Clerk, same. Treasurer, same.

August 13, 1853. 80 votes were cast. G. F. Borchers elected justice of the peace.

October 11, 1853, 134 votes were cast.

April 3, 1854, 146 votes were cast. Trustees, A. Van Grundy, A. J. Petro, G. Speaker. Clerk, G. F. Borchers. Treasurer, David Work.

April 2, 1855, 171 votes were cast. Justice of the Peace, Dilbone and Smith H. Clark. Trustees, Jacob Barks, Jackson Hays, and John H. Dysert, Clerk, W. B. Hedges. Treasurer, Harrison flays.

October 9, 1855, 178 votes were cast.

April 7, 1856, 161 votes were cast. Trustees, J. Counterman, A. Van Gundy, and Jacob Barricks. Treasurer, H. Hays. Clerk, W. B. Hedges, Jr.

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 409

October 15, 1856, 208 votes were cast.

November 4, 1856, 206 votes were cast. Fillmore, 19; Buchanan, 119 ; Fremont, 68.

April 6, 1857, 125 votes were cast. Trustees, Counterman, Van Gundy, and George Speaker. Treasurer, Work. Clerk, Alexander.

October 13, 1857, 202 votes were cast. For Governor, Payne, 118 ; Chase, 82.

April 5, 1858, 177 votes were cast. Justice of the Peace, C. W. Alexander, J. B. Young. Trustees, A. Van Gundy, J. Counterman, and Benjamin Roebuck. Treasurer, Work. Clerk, Alexander.

October 12, 1858, 175 votes were cast. For Rcal Estate Assessor, H. F. Holbrook. From 1858 to 1863, C. W. Alexander served as clerk, G. B. Pampel in 1863, G. Lankhart in 1864, C. W. Alexander from 1865 till 1868, P. F. Robinson in 1868, C. W. Alexander in 1869, H. D. McKinney in 1870, and P. F. Robison in 1871.

The election of 1871 was contested for justice of the peace, and a new election called for May 6. Jamb S. Keith was elccted Justice of the Peace. Treasurer, C. Smith. Clcrk, P. F. Robison. Trustees, Jackson Hays, J. S. Decker, John Shellabarger.

April 1, 1872. Trustees, A. Van Gundy, J. S. Decker, and Harmon Hughes. Treasurer, C. Smith.

April 16, 1872. Treasurer, Smith. Trustees, Van Gundy, Decker, and John Bevington. Clerk, .J. W. Miller.

April 7, 1874. .Justice of the Peace, J. S. Keith. Trustees, old board. Clerk, Wm. Hunter. Treasurer re-elected.

April 5, 1875. Trustees, Counterman. Decker, and L. L. Dysert. Treasurer, J. P. Dysert. Clerk, J. W. Miller.

October 12, 1875. For Governor, Hays, 120 ; Allen, 216.

April 3, 1876. Trustees, Counterman, Decker, and John Bevington. Treasurer and Clerk re-elected.

April 2, 1877. Justice of the Peace, J. S. Keith. Trustees, J., S. Decker, M. R. Hays, Jr., A. T. Sutton.. Treasurer and Clerk re-elected.

April, 1878. Trustees, Hays, J. Counterman, and J. W. Smith. Treasurer and Clerk re-elected.

April 7, 1879. Trustees, Jacob Counterman, H. Van Tilburg, .T. S. Decker. Clerk and Treasurer re-elected. Justices of the Pcacc, A. H. Fr;` singer, P. F. Robison.

April 10, 1880. Trustees, J. S. Decker, Henry Van Tilburg. Clerk and Treasurer, same. Justice of the Peace, C. W. Alexander.

May 22, 1880. G. W. Koepple was appointed to fill vacancy on board of Trustees occasioned by resignation of H. Van Tilburg.

April 9, 1881. Trustees, Milton Hays, J. S. Decker, Geo. W. Koepple. Treasurer, J. P. Dysert. Clerk; J. W. Miller.

Schools.

he schools here, as elsewhere in the county, had their foundation in subscription plan, which was followed for several years. Schools, however, were founded and sustained according to the ability of the settlers, and a foundation laid for the more comprehensive system of to-day. The following tables show the number of districts and enumeration at different periods:_

Churches.

String Town U. B. Church —This organization was effected at the house of "Mother" Eichar, in August, 1841, with the following membership: John Custer, Catharine Custer, Elizabeth Eichar, Nancy Hines, Michael Koepple, Andrew Koepple, ___ Koepple, Reuen Chevington, John Sutton, E. P. Blossom, Nancy Blossom, and Mary Custer.

Thomas Shell was the first leader of the organization. The first building was a log house occupying the site of the present building, and was erected about 1850. The present building was erected in 1869, at a cost of $1600, and has one acre of ground attached for cemetery purposes.

The first person buried her e was a. child of Michael Koepple, which died in 1850. The second burial was that of a man named Elliott. A. Sunday school is conducted under the auspices of the congregation, and hitsan attendance of about sixty pupils. Superintendent, James Higgby; first pastor, Abraham Shingledecker; present pastor, Rev. Abbott.

STATISTICS.

Population 1880, 2001.

Decennial Abstract of Real Estate, as returned by the Appraiser for the year 1880. —Number of acres, 20,104; value, $355,040. Average value per acre, 817.66. Value of buildings, $38,220. Aggregate value of land and buildings, $393,260. Average value per acre, including buildings, $19.56. Aggregate value of lots and buildings, $55,290. Number of acres of arable land, 9606. Number of acres or meadow or pasture land, 2202. Number of acres of uncultivated wood, 8293.

Abstract of personal property, moneys and credits.—Number of horses. 557; value, $22,895. Number of cattle, 1191; value, $13,430. Number of mules, 8; value, $560. Number of sheep, 963; value, $1838. Number of hogs, 1986 ; value, $4548. Number of carriages, 265 ; value, 85165. All other personal property subject to taxation and not already included. $12,150. Number of watches, 18; value, $160. Number of pianos and organs, 13; value, $620. Merchants' stock, value, $330. Manufacturer,' stock, value, $2270. Moneys on deposit or subject to order, $2960. All credits after deducting bona fide debts, $12,020. Number of dogs. 1 ; value, $20. Bank and other corporation property, $5980. Total value of all taxable property except per capita tax on dogs, $84,948. Number of dogs, one dollar each, 150.

ELECTION 1880-1.

1880.—Secretary of State, Charles Townsend (R.), 182; William Lang (D.), 255; Total, 439. President, James A. Garfield (R.), Winfield S. Hancock (D.), 280; Total, 476.

1881.—Governor, Charles Foster (R.), 148; John W. Bookwalter (D.), 216; A. It. Ludlow (P.), 28.

SHANESVILLE.

This town is almost identified with the Indian village " Old Town and is situated on the south bank of the St. Marys River. As a laid out town duly platted and recorded, it is older than any of the surrounding county scats. The distinction of being the seat of justice once. belonged to it, but afterward was transferred to St. Marys, another old town of some distinction, but also the loser of the importance it once enjoyed as a county-seat. Shanesville and St. Marys and " Coil Town" were the early contestants for the seat of justice, and when the prize passed from Shanesville to St. Marys the former still lived, while Coil Town passed from sight and became a cultivated ficld. Still, at Shanesville was held the first term Of court in this county, with judge Low presiding. The associate judges were Joseph Grier, 'fames Wolcott, and Thomas Scott. The memory of the Indians, Anthony Shane, the Godfreys, Crescent, Labadie, and Charlie, cluster about the town. Here, too, may be found the recorded statement of the ice blockade which hemmed in the pirogues which were making a desperate endeavor to transport provisions from the old base of supplies at Fort Barbee to the suffering army or General Winchester. The memory of Anthony Madore also haunts the place, although he is gone, and had come at a period too early to be discovered from the records, or revealed by the farthest-reaching memory. He was here and traded with the Indians when the white settlers came. Even Anthony Shane remained until 1832, living to lay out the town and hear the promise of its permanent growth. He then passed away and found his home among the Shawnese of. Kansas. The town was laid out immediately after the arrival of that class of settlers who came here just after the treaty of 1818 was concluded at St. Marys, as shown by the subjoined "Plat and Survey of the town of Shanesville, in Mercer County, Ohio."

Explanation of the map or plat of the town of Shanesville, laid out On a piece of ground granted by the United States to Anthony Shane, on the St. Marys River. Main Street runs due north and south from the east side of the lots to Front Street, and is five poles wide. Franklin Street runs the same course from the south side of the lots to Front Street,Unitcds three and a half poles wide. Market Street is five poles wide, and running east and west from one side of the lots to the other. Front Street runs the widc.course as Market Street, and is four poles wide from Franklin Street to the east side of Main Street. Columbia Street is three and a half poles wide, and running the same course as Market Street from one side of the lot to the other. Bridge Street runs the same as Market Street from the west side of the lots to Water Street, and is four poles wide. Water Street on the west side is bounded as follows, to wit: beginning at Front Street, north 24̊ west to Bridge Street; thence to the northeast corner of lot No. 1; thence along the front of said lot to the northeast corner; thence north 6̊ 40' east to the river, and the other side bounded by the meanders of the river. All the alleys cross the streets at right angles, and are one pole wide. Lot No.

410 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

1 begins at the southwest corner on Bridge Street; thence north 13½ poles ; thence south 13̊ east 12 2/3 perches; thence south 6̊ 40' west 3.48 perches; thence south 71̊ 45' west 1.72 perches ; thence south 2½̊ west 1.76 perches; thence to place of beginning, 8.62 poles, containing 166.35 square perches of land. Lot No. 2 is 1.60 poles on Water Street, and 11.6 poles on the north side, 13.20 poles and five poles on the west side; and containing 66 square poles of land. No. 3, on Water Street, is 4.08 perches on Water Street and the alley ; 13.60 poles west, and is 4 poles, north side 14.60 poles, containing 60.3 square poles. Nos. 6, 7, 41, 42 are each in front 41 poles and back from Front Street 52 poles, and containing 244 perches. Nos. 9, 10, 11, on Front Street, and 22, 23, 24, on Market Street, are each 5 poles in front and nine back, and containing 45 square poles of ground. Nos. 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, fronting on Columbia Street, are each in front 5 poles and back 8 poles, and containing each 40 square poles. "Nos. 29, 30, 31 are in front 5 poles and in rear 9 poles, and containing 45 square poles of ground each. Nos.15, 16,17, 18, 25, 28, 32, 36, 37, 38, 39 on Main Street, are each 4 poles in front and 9 poles back, and containing 36 square poles each. Nos. 26, 27, 23, 34 are on Main Street, the greatest 3 poles and in the least front 2 poles; on Market Street greatest front 7 poles, the least front 2 poles, and each 41 perches. Nos. 8 and 40 are in front 32 poles, and back 9 poles, and containing 31-4 square poles.

In testimony whereof, Anthony Shane bath herewith set his hand and seal as proprietor of said town, this 23d day of June, in the year of our Lord 1820.

A. SHANE. [SEAL.]

Signed and sealed in the presence of

JOHN BEERS.

The State of Ohio, Darke County, ss.

Before me the undersigned, a justice of the peace within and for said county, personally came the within-named Anthony Shane and acknowledged the within plat of the town of Shanesville and the explanation there written, to be his voluntary act for the uses and purposes therein specified.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 23d day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty.

JOHN BEERS, [SEAL.]

Justice of the Peace.

I hereby certify the annexed plat and explanation of the town of Shanesville to be a true copy from the records in this office and recorded in book A No. 1, pp. 150-1 and 152. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Greenville, Darke Co., O., Nov. 17, 17,36. J. D. FARRER, Rec. Darke Co., O.

Recorder's Office, Greenville, Darke Co., O., Nov. 17, 1836. Entered for record Jan. 6, 1837, and recorded same day.

J. W. RILEY, Recorder.

Shanesville was thus laid out at an early day, and in fact occupies the site of an old trading post held and conducted by the Indians prior to the war of 1812. Anthony Shane, a half-breed Indian, was the old trader and storekeeper prior to the advent of Anthony Madore, the French trader. lie was followed in the business by W. B. Hedges, his former clerk. John T. Greaves next entered the business, but only continued a few years. Then came Dr. John H. Barks, who introduced drygoods in connection with the usual supplies. For these the principal exchange or currency was skins and furs. As early as 1534 or '55 Jacob S. Collins and Henry Vail Tilburg opened a store, but Collins died about a year later. and Abel Gondy entered into partnership with Van :Tilburg. A few years afterward the firm changed to H. F. Holbrook & Co., and again in 1869 to H. Van Tilburg and H. Robison, which is at this writing one of the principal firms of the town.

A list of the names of those who did business with John Greave at Shanesville as early as 1521:—

Jacob Bush, in 1821 ; Wm. Turner; Anthony Madore; Israel Taylor; Barnett & Hanna, lived at Fort Wayne; Richard Deleal, Fort Wayne ; George Cicott, Fort Wayne; Daniel Yount, Fort Wayne; David Armstrong, St. Marys; William Preston; John E. Schwarz; Wm, B. Hedges; Adam Millman, a hatter; James White; Peter Peacott, an Indian seven feet high ; John P. Hedges; David Mac 'Kee; John Luther ; Luther Troutner; Louis Godfrey; Capt. Jas. Riley; Richard Chobert; Francis Comparet ; Peter Felix ; Peter Curville ; Chas Shaw ; Moses Barnett ; William Johnson, at Piqua; Thomas Robb; Alex. Ewing ; John B. Richardville, an Indian; George Homer; Joseph Wise; Samuel Hanson.

The following list will giye an idea of the prices of articles at an early day. 1821:—

Such was the early beginning of the town, which took its name from its founder, Anthony Shane. The name Shanesville was applied to the town from its foundation up to its incorporation, although the post-office :tame was Shane's Crossing from the first. At the incorporation of the town in 1866 the name was changed to Shane's Crossing instead of Shanesville, in order to correspond with the post-office name. The name appears very significant and appropriate when this is remembered as the old home of Anthony Shane, and the crossing of the river by the army of General Wayne. From the first the growth was slow and marked by no particular or fictitious increase of population. The surrounding country was steadily improving, and the town partook of the slow but cOnstant growth which marked the settlement of the whole country. Even in 1838 but a few residents can be recalled, among whom were C. B. Whittley, a blacksmith ; W. B. Hedges, a landholder and J. P.; David Work, a tanner; Robert Gordon, a storekeeper ; J. D. Ralston, a shoemaker ; Rasil Lint, a hotel-keeper; Samuel Drayer, a wheelwright; Abraham Meller, a blacksmith, and Solomon Barks, a farmer. This list perhaps includes all the actual rcsidents of the village at the date mentioned.

Incorporation.

A petition signed by forty-one citizens, praying for the incorporation of the village of Shanesville, was presented and acted upon by the commissioners and plat filed March 7, 1866.

Commissioners' Response.—After due cxamination of the prayer of the Within petitioners, we do find the law of the State of Ohio in such cases made and provided, fully complied with. We do therefore deem it right and proper that the requests of said petition be granted, and we do hereby declare that the village of Shane's Crossings, Mercer County, O., may be incorporated and organized. Done this 5th day of June, A. D. 1866. Rec'd for record June 12, 1866, and recorded June 19, 1866.

ADAM BAKER,

G. MEYERS,

Com's of Mercer Co., a

T. G. TOUVELLE, Rec. of the Co.

List of Officers.

At the first election held in the incorporated village of Shane's ing, in Dublin Township, Mercer County, Ohio, on the 24th day of September, 1866, 44 votes were cast. The following officers were elected: Mayor, P. F. Robinson. Recorder, C. W. Alexander. Treasurer, H. C. McGavren. Marshal, H. F. Holbrook. Trustees, or Councilmen, Henry Van Tilburg, Davis Guy, Lewis Funalman, C. R. Bientz, and Joshua Vanfleet.

At the election April 1st, 1867, 49 votes were cast. The following officers were elected: Mayor, P. F. Robinson. Clerk, C. W. Alexander. Councilmen, G. Lockhart, H. Van Tilburg, Lewis Funalman, C. B. Whitley, and A. Totan. Marshal, H. F. Holbrook.

In 1868, 43 votes were cast. Mayor, P. F. Robinson (resigned). Councilmen, Harrison Guy, Davis Guy, F. M. Davis, and Z. A. Davis. Recorder, C. W. Alexander. Treasurer, D. H. Robinson. Marshal, A. King.

In 1869, 40 votes were cast. Mayor, Geo. F. Borchers. Councilmen, Jas. Sidenbender, J. F. Moore, C. H. Bentz, and J. H. Robinson. Treasurer, Z. A. Smith. Marshal, A. King.

The election for two years, 52 votes were cast. Mayor, Isaac Wisterman. Councilmen for one year, C. Smith, Geo. Smith, and Henry Van Tilburg. Councilmen for two years, P. M. Shafer, Abraham L. Musselman, and C. M. Bentz. Treasurer, Z. A. Smith. Recorder, Wm. T. Hunter. Marshal, John S. Extine. Street Commissioner, Henry Vantilburg.

June 25, 1870. Isaac Westerman resigned the office of mayor of Shane's Crossing. On June 30, John S. Exline, marshal, resigned. C. B. Whitley appointed mayor, Joel F. Moore appointed marshal.

On the 3d day of April, 1871, 48 votes were cast. The following officers were elected: Mayor for two years, C. B. Whitley. Recorder for two years, P. F. Robinson. Treasurer for two years, Z. A. Smth Marshal for two years, F. R. Davis. Councilman for one year, &

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 411

Smith. Councilmen for two years, George W. Keopple, J. H. Barks, and Joel F. Moore. Street Commissioner, C. B. Whitley.

On April 1st, 1872, 53 votes were cast. The following councilmen were elected for two years : D. H. Robinson, H. K. Smith, and C. W. Alexander.

On April 7,1873, 72 votes were cast. Mayor, C. B. Whitley. Councilmen, J. F. Moore, .J. W. Barks, and. G. W. Keopple. Recorder, G. W. Whitley. Marshal, P. F. Felkes. Street Commissioner, Henry Vantilburg.

On April 6, 1874, 59 votes were cast. Councilmen, C. Smith, D. II. Robinson, and L. Funalman. Recorder, P. F. Robinson. Treasurer, J. P. Dysert.

On April 5, 1875, 62 votes were cast. Mayor, C. B. Whitley. Councilmen, G. W. Koeppel, J. D. McKillip, and J. F. Moore. Marshal, S. B. Sidenbender. Street Commissioner, H. K. Smith.

On April 3, 1876, 68 votes were cast. Councilmen, D. H. Robinson, C. Smith, A. L. Musselman, and H. Guy. Recorder, P. F. Robinson. Treasurer, J. P. Dysert. Marshal, John Bevington. Street Commissioner, John Bevington.

On April 2, 1877, 75 votes were cast. Mayor, C. B. Whitley. Councilmen, David Ramsey, J. D. McKillip, and G. W. Keopple.

On April 1, 1878, 69 votes were cast. Councilmen, G. F. Borchers, W. F. Hunter, G. W. Young, and Henry Miller. Recorder, C. W. Alexander. Treasurer, John P. Dysert. Marshal, Jonathan Billman. Street Commissioner, Jonathan Billman.

On April 7, 1879, 88 votes were cast. Mayor, Geo. F. Borchers. Councilmen, Lewis Funalman, W. W. Covault, A. L. Musselman, and Henry Van Tilburg.

On April 5, 1880, 96 votes were cast. Councilmen, W. D. Ralston, G. W. Keopple, and W. W. Covault. Recorder, Geo. W. Whitley. Treasurer, John P. Dysert. Marshal, I'. T. Nutt.

On April 4, 1881, 130 votes were cast. Mayor, Geo. Borchers. Councilmen, Lewis Funalman, J. J. Robinson, and Henry Van Tilburg. Marshal, J. C. Knight.

Schools.

The schools here are the outgrowth of the old subscription system, the so system at command in those days. It was not so complete, not so rounded, nor so intellectual, as the system of to-day ; yet if force did predominate in rude huts, we know it was because it was impossible for culture to predominate in costly buildings. So down the years the school has moved along from subscription to State patronage, until to-day they are the creatures and care of the State. Old District :No. I, Dublin Township, has become Shane's Crossing Village District, and consists or two departments.

At the first election held as a village district, April 6, 1874, the following named members were elected a board of education : C. B. Whitley and C. Smith for a term of three years ; D. H. Robinson and Henry Van Tilburg for a term of two years ; P. F. Robinson and .T. P. Dysert for a term of one year. The enumeration in 1874 showed 60 males and 42 females, a total of 102.

ln 1875, P. F. Robinson and. S. P. Hedges were elected members of the board. Enumeration, males, 66 ; females, 56 ; total, 122.

April, 1876; D. H. Robinson and Henry Van Tilburg were elected. The enumeration for the year was 66 males, 52 females ; total, 118.

April, 1877, C. B. Whitley and C. Smith were elected, and the enumeration for the year was, males, 68 ; females, 49 ; total, 117.

April, 1878, P. F. Robinson and A. L. Musselman were elected. The ,enumeration was, males, 71 ; females, 48 ; total, 119.

April, 1879, J. P. Dysert and Henry Van Tilburg were elected. Enumeration, males, 65; females, 62; total, 127.

April, .1880, J. W. Miller and J. Wisterman were elected members of the board. Enumeration, males, 77 ; females, 71; total, 148.

April, 1881, J. Pennel and C. 13. Whitley were elected.

The board at present (1881) is constituted as follows : C.. B. Whitley; President ; Henry Van Tilburg, Treasurer; P. F. Robinson, Clerk; J. P. Dysert, J. Pennell, John W. Miller.

Business Interests and Directory.

At this writing the business interests are represented and conducted. by the following-named persons or firms :-

T. J. Dull & Co., proprietors of steam grist-mill, erected in 1880. This is a brick building, having a sixty-five horse-power engine, and employs four men. Miller & Bulger, proprietors of handle factory, established in 1874, and employing seven men. Ramsey & Hardisty, proprietors of steam saw-Mill. D. Ii. Robinson, proprietor of handle factory and planing 'mill. Sickles & Borchers, proprietors of brick-yard, J. P. Dysert, proprietor of two workhouses in this town and one at Mercer ; handles about 150,000 bushels of grain annually; is also dealer in general goods, including hats, caps, boots, .shoes, and clothing; commenced store business in 1872, and opened grain trade in 1878. David Small, proprietor of Burnett House. Yant & Street, livery stable. T. J. Courtwright, groceries. L. Funalman, groceries and queensware. L. Koepple, boots and shoes. J. H. Prim, dealer in butter and eggs. P. P. King, gunsmith. P. F. Robinson, cabinet maker and undertaker. J. J. McLoughlin, furniture and undertaking. Miller & Levander, hardware. F.. M. Davis, shoemaker. J. F. Wells, groceries. Mrs. Harriet Fisk, millinery. Mrs. H. H. Smith, millinery. R. W. Holt, cooperage. Byron Whittly, barber shop. W. T. Hunter, tinware. J. Billman, barber shop. T. J. Robinson, boots and shoes. S. A. Denman, wagon shop. C. B. Whittly, blacksmith shop. Isaac Wisterman, druggist. S. E. Miller, baking and restaurant. Van Filburg & Robinson, dry goods and notions. Work & Alexander, meat market. Davis, Guy & Co., dry goods and clothing. a W. Whittly, harness shop. W. L. Reed, confectioner. W. E. .Moon, bakery and dining hall. 'I'. J. Cook, saloon. E. M.. Cook, saloon. J. F. Covault, saloon.

Physicians : Wm. Lynch, .J. N. Hammond, J. A. Estill, A. C. Vaughn, D. W. Estill.

Churches: There are two churches in the village, one being Presbyterian, and the other Methodist Episcopal.

Statistics.

Decennial abstract, as returned by the appraiser for the year 1880 : Value of town and village lots, $2921.40 ; value of buildings, $26,080 ; aggregate value of lots and buildings, $55,290.

The commissioners, as a board of equalization, struck off 14 of the aggregate.

Abstract of pcrsonal property, moneys, and credits, Shane's Crossing' District : Number of horses, 37 ; value, $1540. Cattle, 49; value, $590. Sheep, 20; value, $60. Hogs, 53; value, $160. Carriages, 11: value, 510. Other personal property subject to taxation, and not included in foregoing or subsequent items, $780. Value of all moneys on deposit, subject to order, or in possession, $90. Value of all credits, after deducting bona fide debts, $50. Bank, or other corporation property, returned to auditor, $1540. Total value or all taxable property, except per capita tax on dogs,, $4990. Number of dogs, 6; tax, $6.

Shane's Crossing Corporation.—Horses, 122; value, $4950. Cattle, 167; value, $410. Mulcs, 7; value, $300. Sheep, 353 ; value, $800. Hogs, 240; value, $770. Carriages, 87 ; value, $2380.

All other personal property, not included in the preceding or subsequent items, $5670. Watches, 46 ; value, $530. Pianos and organs, 19; value, $1140. Merchants' stock, $14,350. Manufacturers' stock, $3960. Moneys in possession or on deposit, subject to order, $2,380. Value of all credits, aftcr deducting bona fide debts, $6230. Moneys invested in bonds, stocks, etc., $400. Bank and other corporation property, $2800. Total value of all taxable property, except per capita tax on dogs, $49,270. Number of dogs, 42; tax, $42;

Societies.

Shane Lodge, No. 577, of Free and Accepted Masons, was organized under a dispensation from the Grand Lodge of Ohio on December 27, 1866, A. D., A. L. 5866, and the following are the charter members : H. C. McGavren, Smith H. Clark, Joshua Vanfleet, John Rolston, J. F. Tomlinson, H. Clay, Wm. Clay, P. P. McKeig, Joseph Palmer.

Stated meeting January 5th, 5867. The following are the first regularly elected officers of the lodge at the first stated. Meeting : Smith H. Clark, W. M. ; William Clay, S. W. ; Joshua Vanfleet, J. W. ; H. C. McGavren, S. D.; Henry Clay, J. D. ; John Resler, Tyler ; C. W. Alexander, Secretary pro tem. ; Joshua Palmer, Treasurer.

At a stated meeting on the 21st day of November, 5868, A. L., the following officers were elected : Smith H. Clark, W. M. ; William Clay, S. W. ; Joshua Vanfleet, J. W. ; Levi L. Dysert, Secretary; G. Laukart, Treasurer ; John P. Dysert, S. D. ; E. A. Smith, J. D.; Chas. Bevington, Tyler.

The next election of officers was held November 20, 1869, with the following result: Smith H. Clark, W. M.; William Clay, S. W.; Joel F. Moore, J. W.; G. Lankart, Treasurer; Levi L. Dysert, Secretary ; Joshua Vanfleet, S. D.; David Robinson, J. D.; Chas. Bevington, Tyler.

At a stated meeting held November 19, 1870, the following officers were elected William Clay, W. M.; John P. Dysert, S. W.; Joshua Vaufleet, J. W.; Levi L. Dysert, Secretary; 0. Lankart, Treasurer; Smith H. Clark, S. D.; John Bevington, J. D.; Chas. Bevington, Tyler.

At a stated meeting held November 17, A. L. 587.1, the following officers were elected: Smith H. dark, W. M.; John P. Dysert, S. W.; Joshua Vanfleet, J. Levi P. Dysert, Secretary; Gabriel Lankart, Treasurer.; William Clay, S. D.; J. F. Moore, J. D.; Chas. Bevington, Tyler.

At a stated meeting held the 4th day of January, 5873 A. L., the following officers were elected: John P. Dysert, W. M.; Joel F. Moore, S. W.; D. W. Estell, J. W.; Levi L. Dysert, Secretary; John Bevington, Treasurer; Smith II. Clark,.S. D.; David H. Robinson, J. D.; W. R. Halliwell, Tyler. .

The following officers were elected November 15, 5873 A. L : Smith H. Clark, W. M.; Joel F. Moore, S. W.; Levi L. Dysert,J. W. David H. Robinson, Secretary; John P. Dysert, Treasurer; E. W. Moore, S. D.; John Bevington, J. D.; John D. Robinson, Tyler.

412 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

The following officers were elected .November, 5874 A. L.: S. H. Clark, Mt.. M.; Joel Moore, S. W.; Levi L. Dysert, J. W.; John P. Dysert, Treasurer; W. E. Moore, S. D.; D. H. Robinson, Secretary.

On November 20, 5875 A. L., the following officers were elected: S. H. Clark, W. M.; L. L. Dysert, S.. W.; Jas. Estill, J. W.; John Smith, Secretary; John P. Dysert, Treasurer; Benj. Roebuck, S. D.; W. E. Moore, J. D.; J. D. McKillip, Tyler.

On November 7, 1877, the following officers were elected : L. L. Dysert, W. M.; J. P. Dysert, S. W.; A. C. King, J. W.; John W. Smith, Secretary ; D. H. Robinson, 'Treasurer; S. H. Clark, S. D.; T. J. Dull, J. D.; W. E. Moore, Tyler.

On November 16, 1878, the following officers were elected: S. H. Clark, W. M.; J. A. Estill, S. W.; L. L. Dysert, J. W.; J. W. Smith, Secretary; J. P. Dysert, Treasurer ; A. C. King, S. D. ; W. E. Moore, J. D.; J. D. McKillip, Tyler.

On November 16, 1879, the following officers were elected : John P. Dysert, W. M.; L. L. Dysert, S. W.; A. C. King, J. W.; W. E. Moore, S. D.; W. H. H. King, J. D.; J. W. Smith, Secretary; D. H. Robinson, Treasurer ; Jackson Jones, Tyler; Charles Ward, Chaplain.

Present officers : A. C. King, W. M.; L. L. Dysert, S. W.; W. H. H. King, J. W. ; J. P. Dysert, Treasurer ; D. J. Brown, Secretary ; J. A. Estill, S. D. ; Wm. Shaffer, J. D.; J. C. Jones, Tyler ; C. Ward, Chaplain.

MERCER.

This village is situated in the southeast part of the township, and while it has never attained a great growth, it is still venerable with age. Its greatest promise of improvement was made by the narrow-gauge railroad making it a junction, which has served as a fresh impetus to growth.

The town was laid out for Bernard Brewster, August 30, 1833, and contained thirty lots. It is not incorporated, but was erected into a special school district, being the old township district number two. As such special district it was organized in August, 1880, and at a special election, held the same month, the following board of education. was elected: J. S. Kieth, Abel Harden, Jackson Harris; Jacob Counterman, Treasurer, and O. P. Phares, clerk.

At the regular election held in April, 1877, Jacob Counterman was elected to succeed Jackson Harris. Enumeration in September, 1880, 139. The school contains two departments, and is as well managed as any in the county.

Business Interests.

Michael Adams, dry goods and groceries. Samuel Elberson, groceries and liquors. Albert Wertz, groceries. H. Davis, dry goods, groceries, boots, shoes, queensware, and hardware. Graham and Thompson, steam saw-mill. Abel Harden, blacksmith shop. J. McKaig, proprietor Mercer House.

Physicians: Joseph Harris, O. P. Phares.

Churches : The town contains a Baptist and Methodist Episcopal church, but no resident ministers.

BIOGRAPHIES.

CAPTAIN SMITH HART CLARK, Mercer, Ohio.

In 1837, Wm. Clark and wife Elizabeth came from West Virginia and settled in this county. Mr. Clark had served two terms in the War of 1812—the first with the Army of the Northwesb., and again with the Army of Virginia. His father, John Clark, served throughout the Revolutionary War, and participated with the American army in its operations in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Smith H., a son of Wm. and Elizabeth Clark, was born at Point Pleasant, Wrest Virginia, December 11, l8174, and came to this county with his parents in 1837. His father and mother finally moved to Indiana, where they both died. Their son, Smith 11., was born and reared on the frontier, and so had .but limited educational advantages. It was sometimes necessary to attend school at a distance of thrce or four miles, and even then the terms of school would be of two or three months, duration. Still he never despaircd, but, with the light of a pine knot, beside his mother and her spinning-wheel, .he pursued his studies by night. It was his rule, too, after his weary mother had retired, to continue his studics away into the night, let the book be of whatever charactcr it might. By borrowing whatever books he could, and purchasing as many as his limited means would permit, he gained a knowledge of the rudimentary sciences, and afterward applied himself with success to the study of the higher mathematics. In this undertaking he was so successful as to be able to engage in civil engineering, which profession he practised in connection with farming through a period of many years. With a thirst for further knowledge, he thought he saw a fruitful field in the brotherhood of Free and Accepted Masons, and became one of the most active members of the order. The Celina and Shane's Crossing lodges bear the impress of his energy and forcsight. In. this connection it may be said that in every educational or benevolent movement of this community Mr. Clark has taken a leading part. In his capacity as school director and member of the township Board of Education, he labored indefatigably for the advancement of education, although his labors ran cross Purposes with some of the strongest and even malignant prejudices. After a period of service on the school board, covering a period of sow, thing like a quarter of a century, he may point with pride to the grade, schools of Shane's Crossing and Mercer as monuments of his zeal inthe cause of education. Aside from these offices, he served as justice of the Peace. one term, as deputy county surveyor during 1852-3, as postmaster from 1850 to 1860, and as enumerator of Dublin Township in 1880. After all these years of activity he is still a youth in feelings and aspirations, while his zeal in educational affairs never for a moment loses its fire.

On January 25, 1844, in the house he now occupies, lie married Nancy Archer, daughter of Judge Joseph and Catherine (Bird) Greer. Judge Greer and wife had come here from Clark County, Ohio, in 1821, and settled on the farm now owned and occupied by Mr. Clark. Mr. Greer was a native Virginian, while the Birds were early settlers of Clark County, this State. On the farm their daughter Nancy was born, January 2, 1824, married in 1844, and still resides on the old homestead. When the Greers came here they foiled a native wilderness, and Indians and wolves for almost regular visitors. Mr. Greer served some time as. justice of the peace, and ten years as associate judge. As he was an old-line Whig, his official career ended in 1835, and the remainder of his life was devoted to the improvement and cultivation of the farm he entered in 1821. His youngest daughter, Mrs. Clark, is the only member of his family now in this part of the country. In 1861, Mr. Clark recruited a full company of volunteers, which was designated as Company D, 71st O.V.I., of which he was elected Captain. They at once took the field, and shortly aftcrward participated in the sanguinary battle of Shiloh on thc 6th and 7th of April, 1862. Mr. Clark was captured at Clarksville, Tennessee, and afterward, owing to some regimental imbroglio, was dismissed because of his advocacy of the cause of his colonel, against whose courage damaging charges were preferred. On investigation, however, his order of dismissal was revoked, and he was restored to his former rank, but declined to again take the field.

Mr. and Mrs. Clark have had many days of grief and pain, as may he known when we state that of ten children, seven died in youth. Of the other three, men Taylor was born September 21, 1840 ; served as commissary sergeant of the 193d O. V. I. until the close of the war graduated at the Ohio Wesleyan University of Delaware, Ohio, in the class of 1871, and took pastoral charge of. Perrysburg Station, MIissouri Conference of M. E. Church, where he died December. 1, 1878, leaving ,1 widow, two sons, and numberless friends to mourn his untimely death Of the other two children, Rosalus Guynn was born July 2, 18501 and resides at Mercer; while the youngest child, Bertha Edna, born March 1871, is still living with her parents, the sunshine of the old home. lt is only necessary to add that Mr. and Mrs. Clark are enjoying the acquaintanceship of a large community, and enjoy also that community's highest respect.

JOHN SUTTON.

Zachariah Sutton, a Revolutionary soldier, came from Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania., and settled in Butler County, Ohio. In 1812 he was drafted as a teamster into the army of General Hull, but his son John acted as substitute, and was assigned to Hull's command. On the march to Detroit they crossed Hardin County by way of Fort McArthur, and thence to Fort Necessity, where they passed the winter. Sutton had with him two yoke of oxen. Being satisfied Hull was about to surrender, he and five other teamsters awaited that event, and immediately seized two Indian canoes and crossed thc lake to where Cleveland now stands. From here they walked back to Butler County, and finally reported at Cincinnati. During this long and weary march through a gloomy and desolate forest their privations and sufferings were great, as the Indians throughout the country were roused to hostility against the whites. On demanding pay at Cincinnati for his services and oxen lie was paid " fiat" money, so deprcciated that two dollars were required for a single dimmer. In 1820 he came to this county, accompanied by John Chevington, a relative who had also been a teamster in the same war. Chevington was wagon-master, with the rank of 1st lieutenant. Ile remained here, although Mr. Sutton rcturned to Butler County. lie came back, however, in a short time to this county, whcre he became permanent settler. He was thus here early enough to do his trading at the old Indian store of Anthony Shane. The following incidents may be related of his early experience. Shortly after coming here his horses were takcn sick, and while he was at the creck bank gathering some roots for medicinal use he was bitten on the foot by a spotted rattlesnake. " Major" Lowe being with him, immediately buried the bitten foot Iii the earth, where it was hcld some hours, while he returned for the ox-team to carry Mr. Sutton to his home. Anthony Shane was then sent bot', who asked if they had any black cats, assuring them lie could cure the bitten foot in a "short time." When lie could not procure the cats he

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 415

substituted black chickens, which he killed and applied to the wound. After the third application, he pronounced the cure complete. Again, the wolves became so destructive to stock that they killed all his sheep, twenty in nunber, although they were protected at the end of the house, being practically in the chimney corner. It was after this event, coupled with the death of his horses, that he became discouraged and went back to Butler County, but soon returned, and started anew with greater success.

Zachariah Sutton, a son of John Sutton, the subject of the foregoing sketch, was born in Butler County, Ohio, July 20, 1817, and with his parents came to this county in 1820. In March, 1837, he married Charity Donavan, of this county. Mr. Sutton is thoroughly identified with the development of the township, being here so early that he well remembers W. P. Hedges, Ruel Roebuck, Calvin Denison, Joseph Grier, John Chevington, and others of the pioneers, most of whom have passed away. He was thus present at the organization of the township, and has been one of the leading citizens, and has reared a large family, several of whom are still living at the old home.

SAMUEL SCHLATER,

a native of Pennsylvania, came to Ohio in 1828, and settled first in Carroll County. He was born in 1774. After living in Carroll County a short time he removed to Tuscarawas, and finally came to Dublin Township. He was accompanied by his sons, William and Peter, in 1837. His wife died prior to this removal, and he only survived it about one year, his death occurring in 1838. The sons were thus left alone, but liVed together, and did their own cooking, as well as field-work, for some time.

William, the elder, was born in Pennsylvania in 1820, and, as above stated, carne here with his father. Speaking of the difficulties attending their early experience, we use his own words: "When my father died I was myself sick in bed, and did not know when he dred. All the clothing I had to wear consisted of a pair of bed-ticking pantaloons; a pair of low shoes; a tow-linen shirt ; a linsey coat, and a cap. We had a few acres of land underbrushed which we planted in corn. To get this ground IN had to go to Piqua, or beyond Fort Wayne. Some time after this there was a horse-mill built ovcr on Black Creek, about five miles distant, to which I have carried corn on my hack. I had a neighbor, named Jordan, who packed a bushel of corn meal from Fort Wayne to his Dome on his back. I have myself carried a half bushel of salt a distance of nine miles after paying $2.50 for it. At one time a neighbor planted some beans which the chickens scratched up and ate. Owing to the scarcity of seed the chickens were at once killed, and the beans recovered from their crops. I used to carry eggs to market when I would get two cents per dozen for them. Our dressed pork was taken to Fort Wayne arid sold for $1.25 per hundred. Our first sales of corn brought. only 6¼ cents per bushel. In 1841 I married Phoebe Putnam, by whom I have reared six children, four of whom are still living. We commenced house-keeping where we now live. On my land I have found muskets, spears, and other relics of Gen. Wayne's march."

RUEL ROEBUCK

was one of the original settlers of the county, and must be placed the list with Shane, Godfrey, Madore, and Hedges, having come this township March 17, 1819. lie had married Sarah .Jones, and when they arrived in the county the family consisted of six children, which was afterwards increased to eleven, as shown by the following family record : George, born October 30, 1807 ; Ishmar, born September 15, 1809; Garrison born June 23, 1811 ; Branson, born June 24, 1813, Eliza, born, April 17, .1815 ; Polly, born July 23, 1817; Olive P , born October 6, 1819; Elias B., born August 5,. 1821; Washington, born March 23, 1824; Dennis G., born September 11, 1827; Joseph El., born June 29, 1831. Washington died September 3, 1827. Olive P. is said to be the first white child born in the township. Branson, the fourth son, was about five ycars old when his parents moved into the township. lie was born in Fayette County, Ohio, August 22, 1839. he married Mary Eicher, who died shortly afterward. In March, 1846, he was married again to Phebe A. McChristy, who also died ; and in No-. 'ember, 1856, he married his third wife. His children are named as follows: Albert, dead ; Catharine, Margaret, John ; the latter dead ; Nancy J., Melissa, Wesley, Olive, Lewis, and William. The living all reside in the county excepting Nancy J., who is a resident of Indiana.

GEORGE F. BORCHERS

is a native of Hanover, and emigrated to the United States in June, 1832. Sopped at Albany, New York, a short time, and then came to Lancaster, Ohio, where he remained until 1849, and then removed to Shanesville. Here he opened a clothing store and tailor shop, in which he engaged till 1861, and then retired from business. In 1853 he was appointed postmaster at Shane's Crossings, and filled the office for eighteen years. He held the office of township clerk three years, and is now a justice of the Peace, which office he has held twelve years.

WILLIAM BOTTS HEDGES,

ranking with the earliest white settlers of this township, came here in 1819 and engaged as clerk in the store or trading post of Anthony Shane. He was born in Kentucky June 27, 1797, being the son of Samuel Pope Hedges. After coming here he served as postmaster, colonel of militia, commissioner, justice of the peace, and associate judge. After learning the Indian language and becoming somewhat acquainted with their manners, he left the service of Anthony Shane and opened a store for himself, by which he furnished dry goods and provisions to the Indians, taking in exchange therefor the furs and peltries secured by the Indians. His son Redfern was the first volunteer from the township when the call for troops for the late war had opened recruiting stations. While in the service he acted as a spy, and being captured once, ran a very narrow escape, saving himself only by flight from his captors in West Virginia. Mr. Hedges was married Feb. 1, 1823, to Susan Greaves, of this township. They reared a family of ten children, as follows: Matilda G., born Feb. 14, 1824 (dec'd) ; Samuel P., born July 1, 1826; Polly J., born Oct. 14, 182s, William 13., born Dec. 24, 1830; John G., born April 23, 1833; James R., born May 3, 1835; Nancy E., Henry Clay, Sarah M., and Harriet J. (dec'd).

SAMUEL POPE HEDGES,

a son of the above mentioned subject, was born at Shanesville July 1, 1826, and has lived in the immediate vicinity all his life.. He has thus been identified with the township almost from its organization, and has held the offices of constable and assessor. He is now acting as notary public, real estate agent, and general collector. He has been married three times, being first married to Catharine Harp, of Montgomcry County, Sept. 6, 1827; sccond, to Josephine Hughes, of Mercer County, June, 1840; and third, to Sarah A.. Bailey, of Allen County, Dec. 22, 1844. His family consisted of ten children, of whom seven are still living. Their names and dates of birth are as follows: Albino, Fillmore, born Dec. 31, 1850 (dec'd); Winfield Scott, born June 14, 1852; Joseph Harp, born March 18, 1856; Sarah .lane, born May 8, 1m58 (dec'd); William P., born March 5, 1860; Jonathan Sherman, born Nov. 29, 1864; Nellie Virginia, born Feb. 12, 1872; Louella Franccs, born March 12, .1874; Matilda Catharine, born Nov. 16,1876; Charles Edwin, born Oct. 18, 1879 (dec'd).

CORNELIUS BROWN WHITLEY

was born near Charleston, West Virginia, September 7, 1817, and settled in Mercer County in 1831. He is a blacksmith by trade, and does business at the village of Shane's Crossings. He is noted in the vicinage as a man of considerable originality and force of character Having plighted his affections to Rosanna Moore, a native of Clinton County, Ohio, he married her Febrnary 28, 1839. This union was fruitful of seven children, born in the order named: Mary Ann, Phebe Ann, Joel M., George W., Cornelia Elizabeth, and Cornelius Byron. His first son, Joel M., is a blacksmith, and was a soldier in the late war in Company D, Seventy-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from November, 1861, to January, 1865. George W. is a harness-Maker, and Cornelius B. a barber. . His eldest daughter is the wife of J. V. Sidenbender, the present county auditor, and Cornelia married Jacob Ehrett.

JOHN H. DYSERT

was born in Ross County, Ohio, October 30, 1810. He was married October 23, 1833, to Mary Longbrake, in Union County, and in 1837, with his wife and two children, settled in Mercer County. He is a farmer, and has filled the office of toWnship trustee.. He entered one hundred and sixty acres in the woods Troth the. government in section 33. He killed one hundred and fifteen deer in one year, and one day he killed seven. His father, Stephen Dysert, served under General Hull in the war of 1812. He had three song who were soldiers in the late war, Levi L., in Company D, Seventy-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; John S., in Ninety-ninth Regiment; and George W., in Forty-sixth Regiment. His first wife died, and he afterwards married Eliza J. Steel. He is the father of thirteen children, twelve of whom are living.

ALLEN G. WILEY

was reared on a farm, and has made farming and stock raising his vocation. March 11, 1852, he married Rachel E. Deal, daughter of John and Elizabeth Deal. She was born April 1, 1831 ; her parents came to this county in 1837. Mr. A. G. Wiley settled on section 27, on the farm they now reside upon, which was given by his father. He has erected a hewed log house, which served the family until 1876, when he built the present frame dwelling in which they reside. He owns 200 acres of good land. He has filled the office or trustee and land appraiser. He is the father of seven children, six daughters and one son, and is one of Dublin Township's honored and esteemed citizens.

416 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

ALLEN G. WILEY

was born in Fayette County, O., July 28, 1829. His father, Robert Wiley, was born in Pendleton County, O., in October, 1805. He married Rhoda Wood, of Fayette County, O. In 1835 he settled in Dublin Township, on Jacob Baker's farm, where he lived as a tenant for two years, when he purchased the farm and devoted his time to farming. He. purchased different tracts until he had several hundred acres, which he divided among his children. In 1858 he was elected sheriff, and also in 1860, which office he held until his death, which occurred November 22, 1862. He had filled various offices prior to being elected sheriff. Mrs. Rhoda Wiley died July 22, 1862. He raised a family' of ten children, viz., Joel A., William H., Allen G., Narcissus, Andrew J., Irene, .Jane, Delinda, Mary, and James K. P. William H., Jane, and Delinda are deceased.

JOSEPH BALTZELL

settled in Dublin Township March 14, 1828, with his wife, where his son Herman now lives. Harrison Baltzell was born in 1832, on the farm he now lives on. In 1853 he married Nancy Burton. They have had nine children, six of whom are living, viz., James, Minerva J., John A., George H., Gilmore B., and Rebecca A.

Michael Burton, the father of Mrs. Baltzell, settled in Van Wert County in 1851. and in Mercer in 1855. He was in the War of 1812. His widow is living and receives a pension. Mr. Baltzel's great-grandfather was in the Revolutionary War, and his grandfather in the War of 1812.

There were but three families living in Dublin Township when he settled there, viz., James Hinkle, Win. Frysinger, and E. Goddard, all north of the river.

WILLIAM FRYSINGER

was born in Virginia in 1798, and settled in Dublin Township in 1827 with his wife and six children. He first stopped above the mouth of Old Town Creek. He loaded their goods in a couple of canoes, and floated down the St. Marys to Old Town Creek ; then up that creek to where Joseph Hinkle lived, who had preceded them three weeks (he being the first settler north of the river), and had lived south of the river about one year, Mr. Frysinger being the second man to locate north of the river.

PETER FRYSINGER,

the second son of William, was born August 15, 1817, being only ten years of age when he came to this county, and never had any school privileges before coming here ; and there being no schools for several years, his education was limited.

In the year 1846 he married Sarah Ann Shindledecker, by whom he had five children, only one now living, viz., Augustus, who was born in October, 1851. Mr. Frysinger is located on section 5, on Godfrey's reservation, about half a mile from Shane's Crossing, and about half a mile from where Isaac Shane lived. Shane moved away about three weeks after Mr. Frysinger had located, and owns 700 acres of land.

JOHN H. DYSERT

was born in Ross County, Ohio, in 1810, and finally, after several removals settle in Dublin township in 1837, where he yet resides. October 20, 1833, he married Mary Longbrake, of Union County. Amos Hines was the only settler, who only preceded him a few weeks. Mr. Dysert entered 160 acres of land, but has added to it until he has now 520 acres in one body. He has raised a family of thirteen children- Gamanthia Jane, Euphemia, Levi L., Stephen A., John P., George W., Joseph W., Mary, Sarah, Matilda, William, Arice, and James V.— .twelve of whom are living. Mrs. Dysert, died April, 1876.

LEVI L. DYSERT

was born in Mercer County and has lived in this township all his life, engaged in farming. He is a son of John H. Dysert, who came to the county in 1836. Levi has held the office of trustee a number of years. He served during the war in Company G, 71st 0. V. I., and was wounded at the battle of Pittsburg Landing April 26, 1862. He was again wounded in 1864, and finally discharged in 1866. 11e married Sarah A. Black, of this township. Their family consists of the following named children : Ora E., Mary E., John D., Elmore W., and M. Maude, all of whom are at home.

LEVI L. DYSERT

was born in this township in 1838, and has resided therein ever since. He. is a farmer, and married Mary E. Black. They had four children. Mrs. Dysert died January, 1875, and in 1877 he married Sarah A. Black, by whom he has one child.

JEREMIAH SHINDLEDECKER

was born in Greene County, Ohio, in 1823, and settled in Mercer Count, in 1836. He is a farmer by occupation. He was married in Van Wert County in 1852 to Lydia Hirpe, a native of Montgomery County, by whom he has had two children, Jacob and Frank. His father, Abraham died in 1873, and .Jerry now lives on the old homestead, on which some very fine Indian implements and relics have been dug up. He is now one of the trustees of the township. His father was in the War of 181;

HANNAH J. PALMER

is a daughter of Philip S. Hitchner, who came from New Jersey to Ohio about 1826. She was born in Warren County, August. 28, 1823, and with her parents settled in Dublin Township about the year 1826, and is now living on what is known as the Hitchner estate, and is recognized as one of the first settlers. She was married in Mercer County, Ohio, March 23, 1845, to a Mr. Palmer, who afterwards died, leaving her a widow with three children, two of whom are married.

J. F. McKIG

was born in Mercer County in February, 1843, and now runs a hotel in the village of Mercer, in the township of Dublin. He was married in Mercer County in March, 1864, to a lady who was born in Virginia in 1835, by which union he has had six children. He served in the late war in Company I, 118th O. V. I.; was discharged in 1864, and re-enlisted in February, 1865. His father was one of the earliest settlers of Mercer County, having located here in 1823.

RACHEL BEVINGTON

is a daughter of Joel Woods, was born in Virginia, in 1804. She was married in Fayette County, Ohio, to Henry Bevington, and came with her husband to Mercer County about the year 1820, and yet lives in sight of where she first located. She is one among the oldest settlers in the county. She retains all her faculties, and is as sound in mind as when in her youth. Her husband died some years ago. She is the mother of three sons and seven daughters.

LEWIS HERRMAN

has been a hard-working farmer all his life. He was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, August 4, 1830, and settled in this county about the year 1850. In 1855 he was married to Miss Dunavan, of Mercer County, whom he has six children, as follows: Sarah, Mahala, Wesley. Harry, Albert, and Charlie. His oldest daughter, Sarah, is married to Edmund Detrich, and Mahala to Silas Shellabarger.

G. E. CHIVINGTON

is one of the substantial farmers of Mercer County, where he was born May 6, 1828. His father, John Chivington, was a teamster in General Hull's army in the War of 1812, and was with Hull at the time of his surrender at Detroit. Not long afterwards he became one of the first settlers of the county, locating in section 25, Dublin Township, in which township the son, G. E., now lives. The later was married in 1858, to Jane McIntire, and has two sons, William and Thomas.

PETER DULL,

one of the early settlers of the county, was born in Pennsylyania, June 1, 1800, and moved to this county in 1840. In 1834 he married Catharine Sehlater, of Fayette County, 0. Their family consisted of thirteen children, of whom five boys and three girls are still living. Two sons were in the military service, one of whom died at Savannah, Ga., while with the army of Gen. Sherman in its great '' march to the sea." The other, Franklin, returned at the close of the war.

JOAN SHELLABERGER,

another of the old settlers, came here in 1834. He was born in Union County, Pa., in 1816. By occupation he was a farmer and millwright, but has given his whole attention to farming for some years past. lie was married in Miami County, O., and raised a family of nine children, of whom eight still survive.

ISAAC PUTMAN,

a native of Pennsylvania, was born in 1829. His father came to Van Wert County in 1838, where Isaac was reared in the woods without the privileges of schools enjoyed by the children of to-day. His own statement is that he has worked many a day without tasting bread of all kind. In 1851 he married Sophia, Milner, and has reared a family of nine children, of whom seven are still living. He now lives on section 5 of this township.

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 417

WILLIAM R. SCHLATER,

a native of Pennsylvania, came to this county in 1837. He was born in the year 1820. In 1841 he married Phebe Putnam, who was born in Starke County, Ohio, in 1822. They have reared a family of five children, named as follows: Charlotte, born in 1843; Melissa, born in 1848; Clarissa, born in 1851 ; Elmira, born in 1855 ; Willis, born in 1857. Of these all are living in the county except Melissa, who is a resident of Van Wert County.

G. CONRAD KOEPPEL

was born in Germany in 1815, and came to the United States in 1835. In 1841 he was married in this county, his wife being a native of Perry County, Pa. They reared a family of twelve children, of whom ten are still living. Two sons served in the army, Elias in the 46th regiment, and by re-enlistment in the 5th U. S. Cavalry until the close of the war, and Joel in the 71st 0. V. I. about two years.

JESSE SUTTON

is a farmer by occupation, born in Mercer County in 1826. Married Rose Ann Harmer, a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, October 21, 1855, by whom he has had four children. His father, john Sutton, settled in the county about 1820, and was one of the first constables in the county. His father was in the War of 1812, and was taken a prisoner at the time of Gen. Hull's surrender.

CORNELIUS B. WHITLEY

was born in Virginia in 1817. His father's family located in Mercer County in 1831. He is a blacksmith by trade. In 1839 he married Rosanna Moore, and has had five children.

In 1846 he united with the United Brethren Church, and became a minister in 1846, and travelled as an itinerant minister until 1851, and became a presiding elder.

JOEL M. WHITLEY,

son of C. B. Whitley, was born in 1846, and married Viola Pennell in 1871. They have three children. He is a blacksmith, and served four years in the army before he was twenty years of age.

GEORGE W. WHITLEY

was born September 10, 1849. In 1876 he married Alma K. Fish, and has one child, Floyd C. Whiteley. He is a manufacturer of saddles, harness, etc.

MILTON HAYS, JR.,

is a farmer, who was born and raised in Mercer County, May 14, 1837, being the date of his birth. He is at present one of the trustees of the township. In 1860 he was married to Elsa Counterman, who has borne four childrenas follows : Samuel, Emma, Allen, and Charles. His father, William Hays, settled in the county in 1830.

JAMES HAYES

was born in Fayette County and settled in this county in 1835. In 1839 he married Sarah McMichael, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1823. Their family consisted of six children, named Mary J., Shannon B. (died in army in 1862), Matilda F., Theodore F. (dec'd), Elnora E., and W. E. Mr. Hayes died Feb. 22, 1880.

EDWARD DONAVAN

was born in this county April 8, 1842. In 1862 he married Nancy Crosswich, who was born in South Bend, Ind., April 7, 1844. Their children were named, Sigel, Ellen, Minnie, Mehala, James, and Francis, the two latter being deceased. Mr. D.'s occupation is that of farming, and his post-office address Mercer.

HARRISON WEBB

is a native of Mercer County, born August 18, 1850. He is a farmer and stock-raiser. In October, 1873, he married Sarah Godfrey, by whom he has had two children, Delbert Q. and Orra E. His father, Reason Webb, settled in Mercer County as early as 1828.

VINCENT H. STREET,

son of Anderson M. and Sarah A. Street, was born in 1854, and is the Proprietor of a livery stable. In 1875 he married Sarah, daughter of John and Mary H. Yant. She was born in 1852. They have two children. Settled in this county in 1840.

DAVID SMALL,

son of John W. and Margaret S. Small, was born in 1837, and is proprietor of the Burnett House, Shane's Crossing. He married in 1865, Sarah A., daughter of Daniel Lininger. She was born in 1844. They have two children, 0 wen M. and John M.

STEPHEN N. DYSERT

was born in this county Feb. 4, 1840, and has lived here, engaged at farming and fruit growing, all his life. He married Miss Roebuck, of this county, and has a family of four children, named George H., William C., Harry G., and Freeman, all of whom are at home.

SAMUEL D. BURNS

was born in Richland County, 0., and moved to Mercer County in 1865 and settled in Shanesville, where he remained six months, when he pur- chased ninety-five acres of land in section 36, this township, and moved on the same. Mrs. Burns died Sept. 30, 1869.

JOHN LAUKHART

was born in this county in 1850, and has been engaged at farming all his life. In 1872 he married Catharine Cochrane, of this county. Their children were named, William, J. V. H. (dec'd), Harmon A., Rosa M. (dec'd), and Harvey A.

JACOB F. SCHUMM

was born in this county June 12, 1838, his father having been one of the early settlers of Wiltshire Township. He was married in 1867, and has reared a family of seven children, five daughters and two sons.

BLACK CREEK TOWNSHIP.

This township is the northwest township in the county, and is bounded as follows : On the north by Van Wert County, on the east by Dublin Township, on the south by Liberty Township, and on the west by Adams County, Indiana. The township is six miles square, and is divided into sections of one mile square, except in the northeast corner of the township, where are two small reservations, known as the " Charlie" and " Labadie " reservations.

Topography.

The township is quite level except in the extreme north part, where it is slightly undulating, but as a whole is sufficiently rolling for ample drainage. In the western part is a small flat called Duck Creek Prairie. This prairie is quite low and level, consisting of a rich black alluvial deposit.

Streams.

The eastern and central parts of the township are crossed by the two branches of Black Creek, which unite in the northern part of the township and empty into the St. Mary's River, near Wiltshire, in Van Wert County. The west part of the township is watered by Duck Creek, which has its rise in Duck Creek Prairie, in the centre of the west part of the township. The northeast corner of the township is crossed by the St. Marys River. The east half of Black Creek is well supplied with fountains or flowing wells, which are obtained by digging or boring from thirty to fifty feet. This is a singular feature of this part of the country, as it is not known where the fountain-head is, or whence the water supply is derived, although it probably heads in the great lakes, but almost any farm in the eastern part of the township can have a flowing well.

Soil.

The soil varies, but is principally a clay loam, and above the average in productiveness. Black Creek Township is one of the most productive in the county. All the cereals as well as grass grow here in exuberance.

Land Entries in Black Creek Township.

Sec.Name.

Acres

Year

1 David Wright,

Jesse Kin

2 J.. C. Whitney

A. P. Nott,

A. Guthrie,

4 Daniel Statler,

E. J. Dettiner,

A. Slinks.,

4 Jacob Fickle,

Jacob Bolenbaugh,

Martin Winckler,

____ Kesmedy,

Jeremiah Myers,

W. B. Congleton,

Roger Dutton,

5 Samuel Ream,

89

175

27

27

2

41

81

40

41

81

40

160

80

40

40

80

1833

1834

1837

"

1838

1835

1836

1837

1837

"

"

"

1838

1839

1841

418 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

5 Jacob Harper,

Samuel Larew,

George Dana,

D. D. Cross,

Jacob M. Harper,

William Vian,

Fred Neisel,

Peter Neisel,

A. Neisel,

6 Joseph Harper,

George Dana,

W. R. Browning,

B. Hoblet,

Caleb Watkins,

Caleb Watkins,

Evan Game,

7 John F. Wolf,

Joseph Harper,

Joseph Harper,

Robert Majors,

Wm. R. Browning,

James H. Neal,

Lemuel Hill,

John Keath,

8 Joseph Harper,

C. Racer,

_____ Holden,

_____ Woodbridge,

9 Samuel King,

P. S. Strickland,

H. Shawets,

Joseph Derr,

17 J. B. Crain,

Thomas 0lle,

M. R. and H. B. Thomas

18 James McMahon,

Josephus Downs,

H. Kennedy,

George Dana,

Robert Kennedy,

H. V. D. Williams,

83

80

83

124

41

80

40

40

40

40

82

120

95

82

80

40

40

40

40

143

126

63

80

160

80

240

80

40

40

160
320
200
120
160
120

80

160

80

40

1836

1837

"

"

"

1839

1835

1836

"

"

1837

"

"

1834

1835

1836

"

"

"

"

1838

1835

1836

"

"

1837

"

1839

"

1835

1836

"

"

"

"

"

"

1841

19 Joseph Maple,

George Clark,

Albert. Stacey,

H. B. Stacey,

S. M. Gilbert,

James Grimes,

William Vian,

20 James A. Anderson,

Anna J. Robinson,

Moses Robinson,

21 Amos J. Howard,

Gilman B. Hown,

Paul Wilker,

23 James Montgomery,

William Montgomery,

P. McIntyre,

H. McGonigil,

Moses Stover,

J. W. Riley,

Hannah Joleffe,

J. W. Riley,

24 Geo. Hollyrickcr,

25 H. Vantilburgh,

H. Vantilburgh,

E. J. Robinson,

Jacob Hittle,

Samuel Haller,

John Cortwright,

Silas C. Smith,

Thomas R. Miller,

26 W. J. Ramage,

John Pipher,

Isaac Hufloc,

George Shaffer,

James Antonides,

27 George Dana,

Joseph Holden,

A. Nye,

A. J. Nye,

George Dana,

Wambolt Vicedom,

28 George Dana,

Joseph Moore,

Stephen Runnels,

80

80

80

80

95

94

80

160

320

320

160

160

160

160

40

40

80

40

40

40

40

40

160

80

40

120

80

80

40

160

160

80

160

80

160

80

80

80

160

80

80

160

80

1835

1836

"

"

"

"

1837

1836

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

1838

1839

"

"

1837

"

"

"

1836

1838

1839

1842

1836

1837

"

"

1839

1836

"

"

"

"

1838

1836

"

1838

28 A. McIntyre,

Benj. Cleveland, Jr.,

Jacob Counterman,

29 Homer Bushnell,

J. Graybill & Oath. Cary,

Jacob Ernsbarger,

E. Loer,

Jacob Nutter,

C. Cleveland,

Joseph Derr,

30 James Grimes,

Samuel Truce,

Walter Carlton,

Eran Ganse,

B. Cleveland, Jr.,

Joseph Derr,

31 David Counterman,

Jacob Vicedom,

And. Leisler,

And. Leisler,

32 David Counterman,

D. Zaitman,

Geo. Dana,

33 Geo. Dana,

Jacob A. Fetters,

Levi Sparks,

Augustus Dana,

34 James H. Heal,

Joseph L. Cluny,

Levi Sparks,

Joseph L. Corey

Geo. Dana,

Geo. Holtznichn,

35 James H. Neal,

Thomas Lawson,

John Stout,

George Holtznichn,

36 Jonathan Boyer,

Jacob May,

Jacob Hickle,

Silas C. Smith,

Lem. Myers,

80

80

40

80

160

80

80

80

40

62

80

80

205

62

80

288

125

120

40

160

160

320

240

160

160

81

240

80

40

40

80

160

240

160

160

160

160

200

80

80

80

1838

1839

"

1836

"

1838

"

1839

"

1836

"

1837

"

1839

"

1837

1838

1838

"

1837

"

1838

1836

"

1837

1838

1836

"

1837

"

1838

1839

1836

"

1838

1839

1837

"

"

1839

"

OHIO LANDS.

2 C. Henderson,

Adsulon Wright,

3 James Heath,

Jno. K. Grans,

James Nichols,

Jacob Statter,

MIAMI CANAL LAND

2 C. Henderson,

Wm. B. Wade,

Ishmael Roebuck,

Garrison Roebuck,

Samuel H. Harris,

Owen Wright,

BLACK CREEK.

10 Benj. Shaw,

William Harris,

Jesse King,

Wm. Branscotre,

Jesse King,

D. Adams,

Josias King,

11 David King,

Jessie King

Jessie King,

Chauncy Knowlton,

Demos Adams,

12 I. H. C. Schnich

Aaron Keiver

Uleton Keiver,

13 Wm. B. Wade,

John Woorhes,

Jesse Bloomer,

Benj. Manly,

14 Benj. Manly,

Denias Adams,

15 Elijah Moody,

Denias Adams,

22 Jonas Street

Jonas Farlin,

40

81

80

80

80

80

160

40

40

40

40

80

40

40

40

80

40

160

80

150

80

80

40

160

80

80

149

40

40

40

80

80

80

80

160

40

40

1834

"

1831

1832

"

1834

1834

“

“

“

“

“

1833

"

1834

1835

"

1836

1834

"

"

"

1835

1836

1835

"

"

1833

"

1834

"

“

1836

1835

1836

1834

"

First Settlers.

It is not very certain who was the first settler of this township, or the exact date of the first settlement; but, from the best information we can obtain, William Harris, or a man by the name of ____ Shaw, was the first to locate in the wilds of Black Creek. It is evident they were here prior to 1830, for in that year we find that John Street was here; and, in 1831, we find Charles Henderson and Jacob Harper 'are known to have lived here. The following are the names of those who are known to have settled in this township prior to 1836 : Wm. Harris, Thomas Harris, — Shaw, Jacob Harper, Joseph Harper, Jacob Stett ler, Ebenezer Godard, James Heath, Henry Hoaglin, John Rutan, Benj. Manly, Charles Henderson, John Street, — Sivey, Jesse King, and Silas Jordan. From the years 1836 to 1838 (inclusive), we find that Joseph Mapes, and the Knowltons, Gauzes, Downs, Spays, Counter. mans, and Canadas all built themselves cabins in different parts of the township,

First Birth.—The first birth that we have any account of was that of Alex. Harper, a son of Jacob Harper. He was born in the year 1833.

First Marriage.—The first marriage was that of Jacob Harper and , Kalinda Watkins. This occurred in the year 1831.

The first log cabin built in the township was by Wm. Harper on section 10.

The first frame house was built by Jesse King.

The first apple nursery planted was by Joseph Mapes.

The first school-house was built about 1840, on the land now owned by Charles Jordan.

The first religious society in the township was a Methodist Episcopal class, formed by Rev. Joshua Smith, at the Duck Creek school-house, about 1856. The class occupied the school-house till the year 1868, when a frame church was built, being the first in the township. The first membership consisted of A. M. Counterman and wife, Alonzo Cross and wife, George Clark and wife, Wm. Harper and wife, and a few others.

Black Creek Township was organized April 12, 1834, from original township No. 4, in range 1. Its present boundaries are Van Wert County on the north, Liberty Township on the south, Dublin Township on the east, and the State of Indiana on the west. The first election was held April 28th, at the house of Chauncey Knowlton.

This township contains 22,639 acres. Value of lands and buildings, $373,060 ; arable land, 8712 acres ; meadow land, 2478 acres ; woodland, 11,449 acres.

The following is a list of justices of the peace for Black Creek Township, when elected, and the length of time served, as near as could be ascertained from existing records and personal information :-

The first justice of the peace was Henry Hoaglin ; this was as early as 1840. The second was Asel P. Knott. Third, Josephus Downs. Samuel Van Buskirk, from 1848 to 1850; Sebastian Wolf, from 1850 to 18:53 ; Jesse King, from 1853 to 1859 ; Allen M. Cole, from 1859 to 1861 ; Thos. R. Miller, from 1861 to 1876 ; Jacob Adams, from 1876 to 1879; Thos. R. Miller, from 1879 to present time ; Daniel D. Cross, from 1855 to 1867 ; George Hurlis, from 1867 to 1876 ; Martin Winkler, from 1876 to present time.

The present officers of the township are: Trustees, Fred. Shummp, John Davis, Jeff. Andrews. Clerk, J. B. Johnston. Treasurer, Frank Sapp.

There are no villages in the township, Shanesville and Willshire being the nearest offices and trading points,—the former about two miles from the east township line in Dublin Township, and the latter about one mile from the north line in Willshire Township, Van Wert County.

BIOGRAPHIES.

JOSEPH MAPES.

Among the first settlers of Black Creek Township was Joseph Mapes who came when but a boy, eighteen years or age, and entered eighty acres of land in section 19, where he now resides. This was in the year 1836. He remained on his land that season, and cleared a patch of ground, and built a cabin. He says there was not a stick of timber cut for improvement within four miles of his land when he first commenced ; he also says there were four weeks at a time when he did not see the face of a white person, there not being a settler within four miles of him. After clearing a small piece of land, and crecting a little cabin, he returned to Franklin County, Ohio, where his parents lived, and remained till the spring of 1837, when he brought his new wife, together with his parents, and located on his land.

Mr. Mapes was born in Franklin County, Ohio, in 1818. He was a son of William and Sylvia Mapes. He has been married three times; by his first wife he had five children, and three by his second wife. ln 1665 he married Mary Foreman, by whom he has six children. He has undergone all the privations of the pioneer, has met with many misfortunes, but now finds himself with a comfortable home, and is still hale and strong to enjoy the fruits of his early labor. He had two sons in the War of 1861. George W., the oldest, was killed at the battle or Murfreesboro.

LEWIS BRANDT

was born in Prussia, in 1839. Came to the United States and located in Black Creek Township in 1855, with his parents John and Anna Brandt. In 1866 he married Margaret Haffner, whose parents, Conrad and Margaret Haffner, had come to the county in 1845. They have had six children, four sons and two daughters. They are located on section 6, the old homestead of his father. Mr. B. is one of the well-to-do farms of Black Creek Township.

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 421

WILLIAM M. HARPER

was born in what is now Ashland County-, in 1824, where he lived with his parents till they moved to Mercer County. Joseph Harper, the father of the above, moved with his family to Mercer County in November, 1836, and settled in Black Creek Township. Early in the spring of 1836 Mr. Harper entered his land. Two of his oldest sons went with him, and remained for a time, to clear a patch of ground and build a cabin for the family. At that time there was not a settler between them and Willshire, except Jacob Harper, who had come to the township several years prior. The nearest settler on the south was Joseph Mapes ; on the east was Wm. Harris, four miles distant. The only road in the township was the Fort Wayne road.

The experience of the Harpers was that of nearly all the pioneer settlers. They came to the wilds of the West poor, without any means of support except their willing hands and brave hearts. They endured all the privations incident to new settlers, commenced in the woods, cleared their lands, hunted wild game for food and means to get the little necessaries of life, and to pay their taxes with. Corn and venison were their only food.

William M. Harper, the subject of this sketch, was married to Sarah Young, a daughter of Peter and Margaret Young, in 1848. The issue from this marriage has been four children, viz., Thomas W., William W., Harriet M., and Dona M.

William M. Harper was drafted into the army during the rebellion, and also furnished a substitute, paying $1000 for the same, both serving at the same time.

JOHN ADDY

was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, in 1825. He was reared on a farm, and has followed farming as a business all his life. In 1848 he came with his father to Mercer County, and they, between them, entered 160 acres of land in Black Creek Township, for which they paid $160.80. These. lands had been in market for a number of years, but had been considered worthless on account of being swampy. These lands were known as canal lands, and belonged to the State. Being unsalable, they were reduced in price, and sold for one dollar and one-half cent per acre. After purchasing his land he returned to Coshocton County, where, in 1849, he married Miss Catharine Albert, and brought her the same year to his new home in Black Creek. When Mr. Addy landed on his place in 1849, he only had money enough left, after paying moving expenses, to buy a cow, a barrel of flour, and a little meat. Thus he commenced in the solid green woods With nothing but a strong and willing pair of hands. He cleared land for others to get means to support himself and wife. At intermediate times he would clear on his Own land, till finally he had tillable land enough cleared to support themselves. Mr. Addy soon commenced a system of drainage on his, what was considered worthless, swampy lands, and has continued ditching and tilling till he now has one of the finest and most productive farms in Mercer County. Some of the citizens claim that Mr. Addy has the best farm in the county. It is all under good improvement, with fine buildings. Mr. and Mrs. Addy now have a family of eight children living, all still on the home-place. Two of his sons were in the late war, viz., William and Jabez. Jabez died in the hospital at Nashville, Tennessee.

MICHAEL HOPF

was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1836; came to America in 1851, and located for a short time in Cincinnati, then went to Butler County, Ohio, where lie remained one year, then came to Mercer County in 1853, and located on section 7, Black Creek Township. In 1859 lie married Sarah Kline. From this marriage there have been eleven children born, ten girls and one boy, all still living. Mr. Hopf has had his home burned twice for him. In 1870, on Easter morning, about 4 o'clock, Mr. H. was awakened by fire in the house. The family were all in bed and asleep. He aroused them as soon as possible, and they barely had time to escape from the burning building 'in their night-clothing. They did not save a single article. They were forced to go to their neighbors' houses barefoot in the snow for shelter. They borrowed clothing from the neighbors to clothe themselves and children, until they could get clothing of their own. The house that burned was new ; the loss about $1000. Mr. H. has cleared his farm with the help of his wife and daughters. There are but few that have had harder times and more privations than the Hopf family, who came to the county as late as lie came.

DAVID MORRISON

was born in West Virginia in the year 1814. He married Melinda Sinclair in 1838. Mrs. Morrison also was born in West Virginia in 1814. They emigrated to Ohio, and located in Mercer County in 1859. They raised a family of four children. Mr. Morrison had two sons in the Union Army during the Rebellion. William, one of his sons, enlisted in the 71st Ohio Volunteer Infantry in 1861., and died from disease at Clarksville, Tenn., May 31, 1862. Henry, the other son, was wounded at Marietta, Ga., but served his full time of enlistment.

ANDREW LEISTNER

was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1808, where he lived till lie was twenty-eight years old. Seeing there was no hope of his getting a home there for himself, he determined to go to the United States, which he did in 1836. He first located in Butler County, Ohio, where he followed shoemaking. In 1838 he came to Mercer County, and entered his land in the southwest corner of Black Creek Township, but did not settle upon it till the year 1853. In 1842 he married Barbary Bleistner, who also was born in Bavaria, in 1812. They have four children, viz., Sebastian, John, Barbara, and Andrew. Mr. Leistner has retired from labor, having cleared his farm from the green timber, for when he came to it it was all in timber.

WILLIAM S. SPRINGER

(son of John and Elizabeth Carter Springer) was born in Ashland County, Ohio, in 1829, was reared on a farm, and received but a limited education. He has devoted his life principally to agricultural pursuits. Mr. Springer was rather of a discontented mind or disposition ; was never content to remain long in one place. He has twice been to California, and moved from place to place a number of times, until in 1869 he bought his present home in Black Creek Township, where he proposes to remain the balance of his days. In 1857 he married Miss Mary Shoemaker. Their family consists of six children, viz., Lorin C., born 1858; Charlie A., born 1862; Mary E., born 1864; Frank H., born 1868; Ettie F., born 1871 ; and Ada B., born 1876. John Springer, the father of the above, was one of time pioneer settlers of Ashland, where he died in 1880, having lived at the one place over sixty years.

DR. GIRARD BAILEY,

the subject of this sketch, was born in Auglaize County, Ohio, in 1841. He is the son of Christopher and Nancy Noble Bailey. In the year 1866 he commenced the study of medicine under the instruction of Dr. M. M. Miller, of Celina, Ohio. In the year 1868 he graduated at the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati. He commenced the practice of medicine in Auglaize County in 1868, and remained there till 1874, when he removed to Jay County, Ind., and remained six years ; then came to Black Creek Township, where he now lives on a farm, but continues the practice of medicine. In 1871 he married Mrs. Susan Ellsworth, the widow of John P. Ellsworth. Mrs. Bailey is the daughter of Nicholas Brewer, a pioneer of Auglaize County, Ohio. 'She was born in Auglaize County in 1850. She had one child, a daughter, Sarah A., who was born in 1868. Dr. Bailey has one child, Arthur H., who was born in 1874.

CALEB MARTZ

was born in Germany in 1831. When he was but six weeks old his parents came to America, and landed in Baltimore, after being nine weeks on the water. The family remained in Maryland for several years, then moved to Wayne County, Ohio, where they lived till 1847, then moved to Hardin County, Ohio. Stayed there till 1853, when they came to Mercer County, and located in Black Creek Township. In 1856 he married Narcissa Rutledge. The result of this marriage has been nine children. Mr. Martz is a shoemaker by trade, and used to go from house to house to make shoes for his neighbors. In 1855 he bought his present home—that is forty acres of it—all in the green woods. This he has improved. and added to it one hundred and twenty acres more, all improved with as good buildings as there are in the township. This has all been done by his own hands and that of his family.

LEVI SHOCK

was born in Pennsylvania, in 1828; came with his parents to Coshocton County, Ohio, in 1836. In 1841 they moved to Allen County, Ohio. Here, in 1851, he married Mary J. Carr, and immediately moved to Mercer County, where he now lives. They raised a family of six children. Mrs. Shock died in 1868.. About one year afterward he married his present wife, Mary Albert. Mr. Shock, when he came to the county, had only means enough to partly pay for his land, which was entirely in the woods. He has cleared his land and made all the improvements that have been made with his own hands, and now has a competence to keep him the balance of his clays.

CHARLES H. JORDAN

was born in Mercer County in 1840. His father, Silas Jordan, came to the county in 1835. His mother's maiden name was Sarah Henderson. The Hendersons and Jordans were among the first settlers of Black Creek Township. Charles H. lived on the farm from his boyhood up to manhood. In 1862 lie enlisted in the 99th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, to serve in the rebellion. He served till the close of the war in 1865. At the close of the war he returned to Black Creek, and married Lydia L. Fisher in 1865, and commenced for himself on the old homestead, where he .now resides. They have five children, viz.: Mary E., born 1867 ; Silas E., born 1868 ; Lillie J., born 1869 ; Della A.,. born 1872 ; and Charles E., born 1874.

422 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

NATHAN VANTILBURG,

one of the pioneer settlers of Black Creek Township, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1815. When quite young he went to Richland, afterward Ashland County, Ohio. In 1837; he went to Mercer County, and entered land in Black Creek Township. The following year he deadened a few acres of timber on his land, but did not locate permanently on his land till in the fall of 1839. In 1841 he married Nancy Figley, with whom he lived till September 4, 1873, when she died. Mr. Vantilburg was one of the prominent farmers of Mercer County, and had the confidence and esteem of his fellow-citizens. He was for eighteen years treasurer of his township ; also was elected commissioner of the county. He died November 15, 1880.

THOMAS R. MILLER, ESQ.,

was born in Piqua, Ohio, in 1819. His father was Thomas Miller. His mother's maiden name was Sarah Rutherford. In 1843 he married Lydia Morehart, daughter of Christian and Lydia Roller Morehart. In 1849 they moved to Black Creek Township, Mercer County, and located where he now lives, in section 36. Esquire Miller is one of the leading men of his community,—has the respect and esteem of all. He has been honored by the citizens of his township by being elected justice of the peace eighteen years in succession; has also been township trustee and clerk for a number of years.

BENJ. F. HARTZOG,

a son of Christian and Catharine Lintemoot Hartzog, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1836. He was brought by his parents to this county in 1840. In 1876 he married Elizabeth Boyer. During the Rebellion Mr. Hartzog enlisted in the 33d O. V. I. On March 19, 1865, at the battle of Bentonville, North Carolina, lie was wounded in both legs and taken prisoner, but was soon recaptured and taken to the hospital, where he remained till the close of the war.

GEORGE JOSEPH KUHN

is the son of George and Julia Ann Wright Kuhn, who reside in Auglaize County. He was born in Germany, where his parents lived, April 4, 1833. He was brought up as a farmer, and settled in Black Creek Township, January 25, 1670. On January 16, 1864, he married Cecilia Wright. His first wife died, and he married again. By the first wife he hart three children, and by the second, eight. He has filled the office of supervisor for many years.

JAMES WILLIAMS

was born in Richland County, Ohio, 1843 ; came to Mercer County in 1868 ; was married to Sarah Jane Van Tilburg in 1869. They have two children. Mrs. Williams was born in Black Creek Township in 1848. Mr. Williams served nearly five years in the 6th Ohio Battery during the Rebellion.

ANDREW BURNSETTER

was born in Germany, February 12, 1812, and came here in 1855. He was married in Butler County, Ohio, in 1844. Since coming here he has been engaged at farming, his post-office being Willshire. The family consisted of six children, as follows, the last-named being deceased : Elizabeth, George, Michael, Christina, Powell, and Mary.

GEORGE HURLESS

was born in Harrison County. Ohio, in 1833 ; came to Van Wert County, Ohio, in 1852; from there to Mercer County in 1864. He married Sarah Chilcote in 1862. By this marriage they have one child, Mary M., who was born in 1865. Mr. Hurless was elected justice of the peace in 1867, and served till 1876.

MARTIN WINKLER, ESQ.,

son of the Above, was born in Black Creek in 1841, and has lived here till the present time. In 1866 he married Elizabeth Jewel (a daughter of Gersham Jewel, one of the first settlers of Van Wert County). By this union they have three children living. In 1876, Mr. Winkler was elected justice of the peace, and is now serving on his second term.

JOHN WOLLET

was born in Allen County in 1843; came to Mercer County in 1865 ; married Elizabeth Frysinger in 1866, by whom he had two children. Mrs. W. died in 1871. Mr. W. was again married in 1873 to Miss Melissa J. Jordan.

WILLITS SKINNER

was born in Monroe County, Ohio, in 1822. In 1846 he married Elizabeth Swineford, of Ashland, Ohio. They have a family of five children living. They settled in Mercer County in 1865, where he now lives.

FREDERICK SCHUMM, JR.,

son of Fred. Schumm, of Willshire Township, was born in Van Wert County, April 1, 1844 ; married 'Margaret Eriman October 26, 1871. By this union they have five children living. Mr. Schumm is located on the Charlie Reservation, with a farm under good improvement.

REV. THOMAS COATS

was born in Fairfield County, Va., in 1832. In 1853 he married Miss Sarah Feasel. They have five children living. They came to Mercer County in 1869. Mr. Coats is a minister in the U. B. Church, in the regular itinerant work.

CHRISTIAN H. BENTZ

was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, in 1829 ; came to Mercer County in 1856; married Mary Harrod in 1858. By this union they have had nine children. His father, John Bentz, came to Iran Wert County in 1839.

HENRY C. MORRISON

was born in West Virginia in 1843, and came with his parents to Mercer County in 1859. He married Laura Davis, April, 1866. They have four children, and reside on section 34, Black Creek Township.

WILLIAM A. KRALL

came to Mercer County in 1874. He was born in Franklin County, in 1853. He is a son of Jacob Krall.

GEORGE W. JOHNSTON

was born in West Virginia in 1834; came to Mercer County in 1860 In 1876 he married Mary A. Morrison. They have three children,

MARTIN WINKLER, SEN.,

came from Germany to the United States in 1837, and located in Black Creek Township the same year.

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP.

Liberty Township is bounded north by Black Creek Township, east by Hopewell and Jefferson Townships, south by Washington Township, and extends westward to the Indiana State line. Being a regular town- ship, it is six miles square, containing thirty-six square miles. The south tier of sections are crossed from east to west by Beaver Creek, which is the only stream of importance within the township. There are no la es of note or size in this township, but a post-office, known as Skeet Cross Roads, serves as one convenience to the citizens. Chattanooga, in the northern part, furnishes something of the conveniences of a trading point.

Early Settlement

In 1840, Jacob Deitsch and daughter, Philip Deitsch and family, Adam Bolenbaugh and wife and son, came to the township, and found it containing four cabins. These had been occupied by Daniel Freeman, John Bolton, Timothy Hankins, Isaac Treese, and Philip Bolton. Everything was primitive enough, for the land was a wilderness. Milling had to be done at Piqua, and water for house use was carried a distance of three miles.

Land Entries of Liberty Township.

Sec. Name.

Acres

Year

1 Isaac Snyder,

David Fry,

Jacob Wolf,

Ludwig Wolf,

Daniel Wolf,

Geo. Nicholas,

John Courtwright,

2 John Bachar,

Daniel Baker,

John Courtwright,

E. Kimmel,

Geoffrey Joliff,

3 Jacob Yokle,

Wm. Shambaugh,

Daniel Shullenbarger,

4 John Hammond,

John Hammond,

John A. Keil,

5 Samuel Nessly,

Jesse Mills,

Wm. 'McCulloch,

A. Cortlegen,

6 Carter Tates,

Anthony Moore,

John Fisher,

Peter Fisher,

7 John Bolton,

Juno Hankins

Wm. F. Walkins,

John Fisher,

Juno Hankins,

8 Aaron Inscho,

Joshua Wright,

Wm. McCullogh,

David Smith,

George Holtzvicher,

9 D. Shellerberger,

Philip Deitsch,

“ ”

Jacob Zitus,

A. Fisher,

Geo. HolNameer,

Philip Deitsch;

10 Edward Miller,

80
238
80
80
40
40
40
280
40
39

39
98
477
120

40
314
314
314
160
117
160
195
129
106
206
78
131

80
80
160
160
160
160
160
80
40
80
80
40
320

1836

1837

"

"

"

"

1838

1837

"

1838

1839

1842

1837

1838

"

1837

"

"

"

"

"

"

1837

"

"

1838

1837

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

1833

1839

1837

"

"

1839

"

"

"

1837

HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 423

10 John Fenlin,

Jacob Grumpher

Joseph D. Burch,

John Keil,

11 Wm. McCulloch,

Uriah Franks,

Levi Linn,

Peter Flick,

Philip Wolf,

12 Z. Franks,

R. Franks,

W. Prouse,

H. Hoffhuns

13 Isaac Snyder,

Wm. McCulloch,

John Lehman,

John Brown

Wm. McCulloch

14 Lynn Nessly

Thomas Hammond

15 Jesse Wapel,

James Clark,

Jacob Deitch

17 John Bolton

Thomas Webb

Geo. W. Adams

Thomas Busby

John Retter

Leonard Frouts

18 Theophilius Wilson

David Smith

Adam Bolenbaugh

Wm. Gagle,

Fred. Retter,

Robert Crites

19 Thomas Wright,

W. M. Lewis,

" "

Geo. Holtzvicher,

20 Thomas Wright

Samuel Nessly,

James B. Bretton

D. F. Bennett,

21 John Hammond,

Elbert Robinson,

Samuel Nesly,

Daniel Fillers,

Wm. Galbraith,

120
80
40
80
160
160
160
80
40
160
160
160
160
80
160
160
160
160
320
320
320
240
80
160
160
160
160
40
120
160

132
80
80
80
53
320
67
67

133
80

160

160

240

80

80
160
160

160

1837

"

"

1838

1837

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

“

“

“

“

“

“

1841

1837

“

1838

"

1841

"

"

1837

"

"

1839

1837

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

22 W. Easby,

John Stuke,

Benj. Leatherbury,

David renneman,

23 Wm. Vanhorn

Fred. Smith

John Criter,

John Breton,

24 Geo. Elliott,

Fred. Smith,

Stephen Hite,

W. H. Fishburn,

80

80

320

160

320

80

240
80

40

160
160
80

80

"

"

"

"

1836

1837

"

"

"

"

"

"

34 A. & C. Smith,

W. Esly,

Benjamin Stright

25 Geo. Elliott,

A Bragham,

W. M.cCulloch,

Ed. McQuestion,

26 Wm. A. Vanhorn,

Thomas Vanhorn,

W. A. Vanhorn,

Christian Smith,

Wm. McCulloch,

Thos. B. Vanhhorn

S. C. Beaver,

27 Jo Lehman,

Henry Cannerey,

Adam Bari,

Daniel Fillers,

Wm. Cummi,

Sampson C. Brown,

28 W. Cannerey

Adam Bari,

John Hough,

A. Guthie,

29 Enos L. Smith,

W. W. Smith,

J. D. Beach,

W. Hough,

A. Guthrie,

30 S. Skuls,

Japhet Sherman,

Fanson Hillenbech,

Thos. Wright,

" "

31 D. Adams,

John Evans,

Wm. McCulloch,

32 Gran Upton,

Thomas Upton,

Thomas Hammond,

Sylvanus Skinner,

33 Wm. Spriggs,

Thomas Hammond,

W. McCulloch,

Benj. Smith,

34 Demas Adams,

Geo. Dana,

W. R. Browning,

James H. Niel,

David Whitehead,

80
80
120
320
80
160
80
80
80
80
80
160
80
80
160
80
8O
160
80
80
160
160
160
160
40
120
160
160
160
80
80

160
138
136
160
160
380
80
40
480
40
40
160
400
40
320
80
80
80
80

1838

"

1839

1837

"

"

1838

1836

"

"

1837

"

"

1838

1837

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

1838

1836

"

1837

"

1838

1837

"

"

"

"

1836

1837

"

1836

"

1837

1838

1836

1837

"

1838

1836

"

"

"

1839

35 Geo. Dana,

Joseph Holden,

D. Woodridge,

W. A. Vanhorn,

Clement Elliott,

Fielding Stone,

36 Geo. Dana,

D. C. Racer

John Evans,

Jesse McDonald,

100
160
80
80
160
160
160
160
160
160

1836

"

"

"

1837

"

1836

"

1837

"

This township was organized March 1, 1841, and was bounded by the surveyed townsHip number 5, range 1 east. Its present boundries are, north by Black Creek Township, east by Hopewell and Jefferson townships, south by Washington Township, and west by the State of Indiana.

Election to be held at the house of Philip Bolton, first Friday of June.

Liberty Township contains 22,710 acres. Value of land and buildings, 282,350, with 6456 acres of arable land, 1024 acres meadow land, and 6523 wood land.

St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church.

This congregation was organized in 1841, by Rev. Frederick Knabe, who preached here once every two months during a period of nearly four years. He was succeeded by Rev. Burger, under whose ministra- tions the congregation divided, many of the old members joining the Albrights, because of disagreement with their pastor in relation to cere- mony and doctrine. Rev. Burger was succeeded by Rev. J. G. Strickfus, under whose ministrations another split occurred.

In 1849 Rev. J. L. Muller took charge of the congregation, but remained only a short time. He was succeeded by Rev. J. D. Gackenheimer, in June, 1850, and under his pastorate a building was erected, although at this time the congregation consisted of only the following membership: Philip Deitsch and family, J. J. Deitsch and family, Jacob Deitsch and two sons, J. N. Maurer and family, Christian Koble and family, Philip Bacher and family, and John Bacher and family. The building was dedicated November 30, 1851. In 1855 the congregation again divided, the dissenters forming under the title of Zion's Church. The same pastor served both congregations for a time. About 1866 the old organization erected a frame church. In 1861 Rev. Gackenheimer resigned the pastorate and was succeeded by Rev. George Heintz, who remained with the charge about twelve years. He was succeeded by Rev. Philip Schmidt, who remained three years. His successor was Rev. Hugo Willert, who served about four years, since which time the congregation has been without regular ministrations. The membership at this writing consists of twenty-seven families.

BIOGRAPHIES.

HENRY V. HINTON,

a farmer of this township, was born in Ross County, Ohio, where he lived until March 17, 1860, when he came to this county. He married Altha, daughter of Luther and Ruth Rutledge, of this county. Mr. Hinton served in the late war from Nov. 9, 1863, to August 28, 1865, in Company F., Ninety-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He has held the office of clerk, trustee, and justice of the peace, at different periods, holding the latter office for several years past. The children of Mr. and Mrs. H. are named, Effie H., born June 27, 1862; Thomas C., born Feb. 4, 1 864 ; Ruth E., born June 20, 1866 ; William L., born June 16, 1869; Ida B., born June 28, 1874; Emma, born Oct. 9, 1877; and Lewis, born March 4, 1880.

ADAM DICKES,

a native of Germany, was born December 8, 1830, and came to this county in January, 1838. He has served as constable, assessor, and trustee at different periods. He served from 1864 to July, 1865, in Company C, 23d O. V. I., during the late war.

He was married March 12, 1857, in this county, to Catharine, daughter of Thomas and Catharine Redman. She was born June 8, 1830. Their children were named John T., born January 19, 1858; Samuel P., born December 23, 1859 ; Sarah, born June 13, 1866 ; Barbara C., born February 14, 1868; Henry A., born December 26, 1871; Mary E., born March 1, 1859, died April 1, 1859; Laura Jane, born February 20, 1865, deceased ; Rinehart, born January, 1863, died March, 1865.

GEORGE BOLLENBAUGH,

a farmer by occupation, was born in Germany, Dec. 9, 1830, and came here in 1847. He was married in July, 1852, to Anna B. Albrecht, who was born in Germany, April 19, 1836. Their children are, John J., born Nov. 5, 1853; Caroline, born June 7, 1855; Henrietta, born Nov. 23, 1857; Charles, born June 20, 1860 ; Louisa, born June 4, 1862; Anna B., born Sept. 1, 1864 ; George E., born April 17, 1867 ; David F., born July 25, 1869; Abraham S., born July 22, 1872; Mary C., born June 23, 1875; Edward D., born Jan. 31, 1879. Mr. B. has served several years each as school director and trustee.

JOHN MYERS,

postmaster and merchant at Skeel's Cross Roads, was born in this county November 2, 1839. He married Sophia Beake June 18, 1867. She was born March 31, 1840, in Germany. Their children's names were Philip J., born October 17, 1863; George L., born March 23,1868; Frank J., born March 14, 1869 ; Ellen F., am March 31, 1870 ; Mary R:, born February 25, 1 871 ; Sophia, born September 1, 1872 ; John, born January 28, 1874; Henry, born March 26, 1875, died September 20, 1875 ; Andrew, born April 6, 1876 ; F. W., born October 8, 1878 ; and Bastian, born January 18, 1880.

GRANVILLE FREEMAN

is the son of Daniel and Mary Freeman, who settled in Mercer County March 4, 1830. He was born in Randolph County, Indiana, March 25, 1829, and is a farmer. He was married to Eliza, daughter of Henry and Lydia Robinson, Feb. 9, 1852. She was born kay 25, 1829. Their children are named, Jacob N., Milton J., Mary, Nancy k., Henry F., Mark E., and James M. He filled the office of supervisor for six years. He enlisted in 1862, in the One Hundred and Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company F, and was discharged in September, 1865. His father-in-law, HENRY ROBINSON, was the first settler in Liberty Township, on section 31, in 1830. He taught the first school in said township. When he first settled there, it was several years before they saw any white families; all were red-skins, but very civil, and knew nothing but to hunt. Mr. Robinson entered his land in 1831. He died March 4, 1854. He held the office of justice of the peace for many-years, and died beloved and respected by all for his Christian virtues. The family were compelled to go forty miles to mill. Mr. Freeman remarked that he had crossed the bridge that General Wayne had built to cross the river, and it is as solid as it was twenty years since.

JOHN DEITSCH,

a son of Jacob and Maria Deitsch, came to this county in 1840, while yet a mere boy, seven years of age. He has thus been witness to the improvement and growth of the township, which he first knew as a wilderness of wolves and other wild beasts.

424 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO.

PETER BOCKOVEN

was born in New Jersey June 18, 1812. He was the son of George and Elizabeth Bockoven, whe died in Darke County, Ohio. He was raised a carpenter and farmer, and came to Mercer County in 1865. He married Chloe Johnson, daughter of John and Elizabeth Lewis Johnson, November, 1853. Mrs. Bockoven was born December 5, 1815. Their children are: Elvire J., Edmund A., William J., Ellen R., John J., Geo. H., Ansell H., and Charles A. Peter Bockoven was school director for six years. His grandfather, Jacob Bockoven, was a captain in the Revolutionary war and his wife's grandfather, David Lewis, served in the war of 1812. William J. enlisted, in 1862, in the 82d Ohio Volunteers, Company E, and was killed at Bentonville, North Carolina, April 11, 1865. John J. enlisted, in 1861, in the 39th Regular Indiana Infantry, Company C., and was discharged August 2, 1865.

ABRAHAM BEVERSTINE

was the son of Abraham and Barbara Beverstine, and was born in Switzerland February 17, 1828. He settled in Liberty Township, Mercer County, in 1864, and was brought up a farmer. He married Frederica Stader August 16, 1855, in 'Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Their children are named Washington, Mary, Frederica, and Caroline.

CHARLES BOLLENBAUGHER

is the son of George and Henrietta Bollenbaugher, and was born in Germany October 18, 1845. He was brought up as a farmer, and settled in Mercer County June, 1852. He married Catharine E. Baker, daughter of John and Barbara Baker, who had settled in this county in October, 1853. Catharine Bollenbaugher, his wife, was born in 1845. Their children are named John C., George H., Caroline, Annie, Mary L., Margaret H., Mary A., William F., and Maria C. Mr. C. Bollenbaugher served several terms as school director, and also as supervisor.

ADAM BOLLENBAUGHER

was born May 3, 1806, and is the son of Nicholas and Margaret Bollenbaugher. He married Elizabeth Mitchel, of Canton, Ohio, who was born in 1815. Their children are : Christian, Adam, Catharine, George, Henry, Mary A., and JacOb. There were just enough settlers. to fill the office of trustees for school purposes, and that gave the name of Liberty to this township. Mr. Adam Bollenbaugher was the first settler on section 18. The first election was held at the house of Theophilus Meason in 1836..

CHRISTIAN BOLLENBAUGHER,

son of John and Dorothea Bolenbaugher, was born in Germany, Nov. 17, 1645. He was raised a farmer; and settled in Mercer County in 1664. He married Catharine, daughter of John F. and Catharine Spedle, at Richland, Ohio, Nov. 20, 1845. Mrs. C. Bollenbaugher was born Oct. 20, 1624. Their children are John W., John F., Louisa, and John H.

WILLIAM FOLLIM,

a farmer of Liberty Township, was born in Darke County, Ohio, Feb. 14, 1845, and settled in this county in 1878. He married Lucinda Bowl, who was born in Darke County, in 1856. Mr. F. served in the Ninety-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from 1862 to 1865. Children: William, born 1871; Jesse, born 1875; and Elizabeth, born 1877.

SAMUEL FRANCIS KELLEY,

of Chattanooga, was born at Zanesville, Ohio, Nov. 4, 1851, and came to this place in 1880, when he opened the restaurant and saloon in which he is now engaged. He was married in Adams County, Indiana, Oct. 23, 1672, to Minerva E. Deyo, who was born in Auglaize County., Ohio, Dec. 1, 1857. Their children are named James C., born 1873; Emma F., born 1675; Amanda I., born 1876; Ella, born 1878; and Willie, born 1880.

PHIILP KABLE,

a farmer, living near Skeel's Cross Roads, was born in this county, Feb. 9, 1850, and has resided here all his life. He married Caroline Koch, Feb. 15, 1872. She was born in Butler County, Ohio, Sept. 10, 1849. Their children are, Catharine, born March 31, 1873; Philip, born Dec. 10, 1874; William, born Nov. 18, 1876; and Louisa, born July 23,1878. Mr. Kable has served as township clerk for a period of six years.

JACOB DEITSCH,

a farmer of this township, was born in Prussia, and came to this county in 1842. On Jan. 25, 1852, he married Gertrude Miller, who was born Oct. 22, 1626. Their children consist of Mary, born Nov. 30, 1852; Sophia, born Feb.16, 1854 ; Margaret, born March 14, 1856 ; Jacob, born Dec. 11, 1857; John W., born March 10, 1860 ; Francis C., born Oct. 22, 1861 ; Louisa, born Jan. 22, 1864; and Elizabeth, born Feb. 4, 1870.

JOHN J. HALLER,

a farmer living near Skeel's Cross Roads, was born in Switzerland, in 1820, and carne to this county in 1859. He married Mary E. Metcalf January 1, 1858. Their children were named, John B., Nettie, Mary, Eda, Ella, George C., Kitty H., Frank M., Asa C., Clara A., and Charles. Of these the three latter are deceased.

GARRETT EVERS,

a farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Germany, March 23, 1823, and came to this county in 1850. In 1849 he married Catharine Veverick, of Cincinnati, who was born in Germany in 1830. Their children were named John, born April 23, 1851, died 1857 Frank, born 1857 ; Mary, born 1852 ; Elizabeth, born 1861 ; Anna, born 1863 ; and John, born 1877.

JOHN BAKER,

a farmer of this township, was born in Germany, February 8, 1834, and came to this county in 1853. In 1857 he married Susanna, daughter of John and Mary Cook. She was born in Germany, January 30, 1838. Their children are John, Christina, Mary, Catharine, Anthony, Jacob, Frederic, and William.

JOHN DEITSCH,

a farmer and stock-raiser of this township, was born in this county in November, 1852. In 1875 he married Caroline, daughter of John and Mary Brant, of Dayton, Ohio. Their children are named John J., born March 4, 1876 ; Margaret, born September 22, 1878 ; and Valentine, born September 11, 1880.

WM. BETSEL,

a farmer and stock-raiser, was born in this county February 12, 1855. In October, 1879, he married Sophia, daughter of John and Catharine Deitsch, who was born in this county in 1857. Their only child, Mary, was born August 9, 1880, and died January 31, 1881.

J. R. OLIVER

was born in London, England, September 9, 1823, and came to this county in 1860. He has since served as clerk and trustee of the township. In 1844 lie married Emma Filzer, who was born in Birmingham, England, February 15, 1822. Their children are named Caroline, Emma, Francis, Joseph, Charlotte, Harry, James, and Norris.

NICOLAS PETER

was born in France, December 3, 1836. In 1864 lie married Catharine Breckluzer, who was born in France, October 14, 1848. He has been engaged in farming since he came to the county in 1864. The t numbers but three children, named Barbara, Henry G., and Mary FL

HENRY SECRIST

was born in Germany in 1827, and came to this county in 1871. Since then he has been engaged in farming. He served from 1861 to 18(5,11. the late war, and was held a prisoner in Libby prison about nine months. He was married in Germany in 1852, and has six children, named Mary, John G., Elizabeth, Henry, Charles, and George.

JOHN BECHER.

His parents were Frederick and Margaret Becher, who had settled in Mercer County September 10, 1841. John was born in Germany May 30, 1833, and raised a farmer. He married on January 22, 1855, Maria Baker, daughter of John and Barbara Baker. Mrs. Baker was born April 8, 1837. Their children are named Sophia., Mary, Jacob, Catharine, Louisa, John, Henry C., George, Matilda, and William.

The first settler on section 6 was Peter Fisher.

DR. S. R. WILSON

was born in Monongahela County, West Virginia, where his wife, E. J. Neely, was also born. They were married in the same county May 13, 1852, and removed to Mercer County in February, 1866. Dr. Wilson is a farmer and practising physician at Skeel's Cross Roads, and the father of ten children. His father, Benjamin Wilson, was a soldier in the war of 1812. His brothers, George, John R., and Henry, were in Col. Jackson's Virginia regiment of the rebel army during the late war. In 1876 Dr. S. R. Wilson was elected coroner of Mercer County, and served four years.

SAMUEL M. LOREE

was born in Franklin County, Ohio, and came to ,Mercer County when but eight years of age. He is a farmer and stock-raiser. He married one of Mercer County's daughters in 1876. He has been a constable or Liberty Township two years, and a district school director three years.

1856		1861		1866
No. of Dist	Enumeration.	No. of Dist	Enumeration.	No. of Dist	Enumeration
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9	76 77 68 18 63 49 33 62 65	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9	92 100 53 45 56 51 42 65 62	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9	96 86 62 56 53 46 40 77 64
1871		1876		1880
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10	103 110 45 71 69 58 33 64 56 46	2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10	112 49 51 60 54 25 55 68 48	3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10	52 77 64 87 25 55 39 51