450 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO dent attorney of the county. The second legal light was Andrew Dodds, who came in 1835, and was elected to the office of prosecuting attorney in 1839. He was also chosen for county treasurer, after which he removed to Texas. Edwin Fischer was the next lawyer in chronological order to practice in the county, and he remained here almost until the opening of the Civil War, when he retired to his farm within the county. He was elected a member of the Legislature in 1839. He is said to have kept a pack of hounds, and enjoyed the sport of the chase even more than the pursuit of law, for wild game was still plentiful at this time. E. G. Spellman reached Kenton from Marion in the spring of 1842, and practiced law in the county for about five years. He was elected clerk of the courts for several terms, and also served in the Legislature. Benjamin M. Penn, a brilliant but eccentric lawyer, came here from Batavia in 1844, and remained for several years. He went to California during the gold excitement and spent his last days on that coast. Bradley Camp arrived about the same time from Zanesville, and remained here until his death in 1850. William L. Walker located in Kenton in 1847, and filled several political positions, among which were prosecuting attorney, presidential elector, and mayor of Kenton. As a presidential elector he cast the vote of his district for Lincoln. Among others of the early lawyers were Edward Stillings, an able and energetic follower of Blackstone ; R. J. Allison, who remained but a short time ; James Bayne, who was the first probate judge of Hardin County ; David Thompson, who distinguished himself in the Civil War ; and two brothers, Justus C. and Hiram Stevens. Hiram afterwards removed to Kansas, where he was elected district judge. Col. Luther M. Strong came here from Seneca County. He is one of three Hardin County men who have served in the National Congress. He served two terms in that legislative body. Prior to that he had served in the Ohio Senate and upon the common pleas bench. Frank B. Willis was admitted to Congress in 1906, and was a teacher of law in the Ohio. Northern University when elected to Congress in 1911. Before his term had expired, he was elevated to the high office of governor of Ohio. He is known for his scholarly attainments and oratorical ability all over the state, in most parts of which he has spoken. Charles C. Lemert began the practice of law in Kenton in 1887. He was executive clerk to Governor Nash, and afterwards was insurance commissioner for Ohio. Samuel D. Fess, now president of Antioch College, and member of Congress, was for several years a member of the county bar. It was not long after Kenton was selected as the county seat that two physicians, named Clark and Blodgett, located in the embryo town. Neither remained there long, but Doctor Clark was also one of the pioneer school teachers, for in this way he added to his meager earnings as a pioneer physician. Prior to 1840 only three physicians located in Kenton. Of these men, Dr. Usher P. Leighton might properly be called the "father" of the medical practice in Hardin County. He was a native of Maine, and practiced continuously in Kenton from March, 1836, until his death in 1878. Few men were so well known as Doctor Leighton, and in the early days his practice extended over a wide territory. He was a good financier, also, and succeeded in gathering together a fair share of this world's goods. Doctor Watt opened his office in the fall of 1839. During his residence he was recognized as a good physician, and continued actively in practice until within a few years of his death in 1876. After 1840 physicians began to come in larger numbers. Some of them remained only a few years, while others continued permanently. Dr. W. W. Durbin located in the HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 451 county about 1840, but removed to Kenton a couple of years later. He had the reputation of being a very good doctor. Dr. J. A. Rogers arrived in 1843, and continued in the practice of his profession for more than a dozen years, after which he engaged in the drug business. Dr. A. W. Munson reached Kenton in 1838, but did not begin the practice of medicine until six years later. He left the county for a few years, but afterwards returned to Kenton and continued the practice there until his death in 1904. The period of his active duties then covered a period of almost six decades. Dr. W. H. Philips, who located in Kenton in 1854, served as army surgeon from 1862 to 1864, and was afterwards surgeon-general of the state. The first newspaper in Hardin County was established to champion the cause of the whig party, organized less than a decade earlier. This was the Hardin Intelligencer, the first issue of which was issued October 7, 1843. Negotiations had been entered into with John Shrenk, the owner of a press at Bucyrus. He hauled his press here by wagon, and set it up in a log building owned by Alexander Thompson. It was published by John and Martin Shrenk for a few months. The democrats then felt the need of a paper to be published in. their own interest, and resolved to purchase a press, since they were unable to find an owner willing to take the chance. A subscription paper was circulated, and a small press purchased in Columbus "on time." The first paper issued from this press appeared in August, 1844, and was called the Hardin Democrat. It was edited and published by Mathias Nichols, who was an uncompromising adherent of that political faith. When James K. Polk was elected president in 1844, Mr., Shrenk was much disappointed, and soon afterwards removed his press to Upper Sandusky. Some of the whig leaders purchased another press in Cincinnati, which was transported overland, and F. W. Murray, of Columbus, was secured as editor of the new paper, which was named The Weekly News and Hardin County Republican. This paper did not prove to be a financial success and it was necessary to secure a new editor. James S. Robinson, then a youth of nineteen years, living in Tiffin, assumed the responsibility, and came here to take charge of the paper, the name of which was changed to the Kenton Republican. The first issue of this publication appeared January 19, 1847. Mr. Robinson announced that the paper would advocate the principles of the whig party, and would be a "journal of news, politics, science, education, morals, literature, agriculture, and markets." He adopted the motto "Be just and fear not." In the following year the names of "Watt and Leighton" appear as the proprietors of this paper, and the following motto was proclaimed at the masthead: "Aim to do your duty, and mankind will give you credit where you fail." Dr: U. P. Leighton finally became sole editor, but Mr. Robinson again assumed charge of the paper only a few months later. Mr. Robinson continued with the paper, which was changed to the Hardin County Republican, until the Civil War broke out, when he enlisted in the army. At _the close he was brevetted major general. He held several political offices, the most notable of which was member of Congress, to which he was elected in 1880, and served two terms. During 1847 there was no democratic paper in the county, although the press was still owned by the democratic leaders. As a result of this apathy, the whigs elected eight of the ten county officers in that year. Politics is very closely woven with the history of the early county papers. In 1848 a paper was issued on this press by William Pepper, called the Kenton Herald, but the publication was rather intermittent. In 1851 Charles Warner and J. B. Atkinson secured the press, and issued a paper called the Democratic Exposi- 452 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO tor. Because the whigs carried the county, the Expositor ceased publication. Then it was that Will Tomlinson came in 1853, to bolster up the followers of Jefferson, and started a paper which he called the Nor'wester, and with it battled for the cause of democracy. Ezra Williams, of Richland County, sold his farm and moved to Kenton in August, 1854, and purchased the press. He secured the service of Alexander S. Ramsey as editor. A year later Mr. Williams himself undertook the editorial work, and changed the name of the paper to the Western Courier. In the following year the name was again altered, to the Kenton Democrat and Courier, and Mr. Ramsey took charge of the editorial department. Once more the democratic organ ceased publication. The first number of the Hardin County Democrat was given to the public in 1857. It was owned by J. E. Mumford and Justus C. Stevens, but the periodical did not have any easy road. It passed through several hinds until it came into possession of A. S. Ramsey in the following year. Several changes of ownership followed before it definitely suspended in 1863, when Colonel Pike was editor. Colonel Ramsey, who had retired from the army, again purchased the plant. Still failure followed, and the name was changed to the Democratic Advocate. Then it was that Daniel Flanagan entered the field and purchased the Advocate. For the first time, success came to the democratic organ. He remained in control for a number of years and sold it to David. S. Fisher. Again the name of Hardin County Democrat was restored. A daily edition was established in October, 1892. Daniel Flanagan again came into the ownership and remained as its head until his death, when he was succeeded by his son, Curran E. Flanagan. After the war the Kenton Republican drifted into the hands of Lester T. Hunt and W. W. Miller. Mr. Miller remained with it until his death in 1880. It was then sold to George W. Rutledge, who transferred a half interest to Ellis L. Millar. Mr. Millar finally purchased the entire plant, and in 1892 issued the Daily Republican for the first time. After passing through the hands of Gen. James C. Howe, it became the property of William M. Beckman. The Kenton Daily News was the first daily in the county seat. It succeeded The Kenton News and The Graphic, both weeklies. It was founded by Mr. Beckman and Harry Edsell, and it was independent in politics. For six years it was published, and was then consolidated with the Republican. Two weeklies are now issued from the plant. One is the Graphic-News, and the other the Hardin County Republican. For several years George E. Crane was a partner of Mr. Beckman, but his interest was disposed of to Frank B. Wilson. Mr. Beckman's stock was sold to Charles D. Kelley and Forest F. Tipton. These three men then organized The Kenton Republican Company. Other papers in Hardin County are The Ada Record (1872), The Forest Review (1874), The Forest Advertiser (1907), The Dunkirk Standard (1875); The University Herald, of Ada (1885), The Mount Victory Observer (1886), and The Alger Gazette (1900). The first bank of Hardin County was opened up by Giles Copelin, about the year 1850, in the rear room of the second story of a frame building in Kenton. The name given this private banking institution was the Hardin County Bank. A few years afterwards he was succeeded by his brother, Howard Copelin, but it was not long until the business was closed and the bank removed from the town. The next bank to begin operations in Kenton was organized by William Carey, David Thompson, and Joseph Kinnear, in the year 1853. Mr. Kinnear first retired, and was followed by Mr. Thompson, HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 453 but the business was continued by Mr. Carey under the name of the Kenton Bank. Such high interest was paid for deposits, however, that the bank lost money and failed in 1875. The Bank of Exchange and Deposit was organized by Joseph Kinnear and B. F. Kinnear, John F. Henkel, and David Thompson in 1866. This bank continued until 1874, when it also failed from the same cause as its rival. Isaac G. and Granville S. Williams opened a bank in 1868, under the business name of I. G. Williams and Son. With some changes of ownership, this bank continued as the Williams Bank until 1875, in which year it was disposed of to the Hardin County Bank. When the Bank of Exchange and Deposit failed, its assets were purchased by a group of capitalists and the Citizens Bank was organized, with Lewis Merriman as president, and Augustus Traeger as cashier. This bank was disposed of to the Kenton Savings Bank. The Farmers and Mechanics Bank was established February 12, 1875, with J. C. Stevens as its president, and R. L. Miller as its cashier. This bank discontinued business in 1885. The Hardin Savings Bank was organized in 1875, and its first officers were Joseph Paulucci, president, and James Espy, cashier. The Kenton Savings Bank was incorporated in the same year. Lewis Merriman was its president, and Solomon Kraner was its cashier. This bank has been very prosperous from the time of its opening for business, and has paid a dividend to its stockholders each year during its existence. The First National Bank of Kenton began business in 1881, and was the first bank in the county to take advantage of the federal banking laws. It purchased the assets of the Hardin Savings Bank. Joseph Paulucci was the first president, and H. W. Gramlich the first cashier. In a couple of months James Young succeeded Paulucci as the head of the institution. This bank has been in business from the time of its organization until today, and is recognized as a conservative and valuable banking institution. The Kenton National Bank was organized in 1886. Asher Letson was elected president, and. Curtis Wilkin was chosen cashier. Like its competitors in business, the Kenton National Bank has been and is doing a very successful banking business. The latest entry in the banking field in Kenton is the Commercial Bank, which began business November 1, 1904. John S. Rice was made its president, and W. J. Ochs its cashier. The First National Bank of Forest was incorporated in 1904. W. T. Gemmill was chosen president of the bank, and W. T. Robinson its cashier. Although the bank is not an old one in years, it has become a very important institution in the community in which it is located. The Hardin County Bank, a private banking institution, was opened at Forest in 1888. In 1903 it was incorporated under the name of the Hardin County Bank Company. Morris Meyer was elected president, and Airs. Morris Meyer the cashier. In 1898 William Witcraft and Alexander Wallace formed a partnership in the banking business, under the name of the Mount Victory Bank, which was located in that village. It continued in business under this style as a private bank until 1904, when it was incorporated under the same name. William Witcraft was made president of the new institution, and H. E. Dickinson the cashier. The Mount Victory Savings Bank is a thriving institution, and began business in 1906. The Ridgeway Banking Company was incorporated in 1903. John Brungard was its first president, and O. E. Perry its first cashier. In 1875 John Woodruff, Sr., began a banking business at Dunkirk, under the name of Woodruff's Bank, of which institution he was the sole owner. This was continued until 1903, when the Woodruff National Bank was organized and took over the business of the other concern. John Woodruff, Sr., was elected president, and Irvin 454 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO Woodruff cashier. The First National Bank of Dunkirk began business in 1903, with S. A. Hagerman as president, and M. A. Boyer as cashier. In 1906 the Alger Savings Bank was organized. Alexander Carmen was elected president of the bank, and M. D. McCoubrey cashier. William and Edmund Carey, of Kenton, together with Peter and Nathan Ahlefeld, opened the Bank of Ada in 1872. After the retirement of the Careys, a couple of years later, the name was changed to the Citizens Bank, with Peter and Nathan Ahlefeld as its owners. A few years later Nathan Ahlefeld retired, and the business was continued by his partner until 1893, when it failed, but the creditors were all paid in full. The Ada Savings Bank was organized in 1893, with Justin Brewer as its president and James Bastable as its cashier. This bank continued until 1900, when it was organized as the First National Bank of Ada. Justin Brewer was elected president of the new institution, and Clyde Sharp cashier. William L. Rees and I. McJunkin opened up the Exchange Bank at Ada in 1872. This bank failed in 1883. E. E. Bauman began a banking business in the same quarters in the following year, and continued for a little more than one year, when he closed out the business because it proved unprofitable. The Liberty Bank was organized in 1902 at Ada, with William Guy-ton as its president and N, R. Park its cashier. All of these banks in Hardin County, of which six are national and seven state organizations, are doing a profitable business, and are important institutions in their respective communities. The Hardin County Pioneer Association was organized in 1868 for the purpose of keeping alive the history of the pioneer times in the county. At first no member was admitted who had settled in the county later than 1838, but this rule was afterwards modified to take in later pioneers. The first meeting of the association was held 'at the courthouse on July 4, 1868, at which addresses were made by many prominent pioneers who related tales of life in the woods. Of the charter members of this association, few are now surviving, but the organization is still maintained and its meetings are filled with interest. During the summer of 1889 the members of the association brought logs to the county fair grounds, each member contributing a single log. With these contributions a genuine old pioneer cabin, with chimney, fireplace, and all its accessories, was erected and pioneer day was celebrated at the annual fair. The pioneers brought with them their old spinning wheels, cooking utensils, furniture, etc., and furnished the cabin complete. It was dedicated with proper ceremonies and the famous orator, Gen. W. H. Gibson, delivered the speech of the day. Other short addresses were given by Col. W. F. Cessna and Dr. A. W. Munson. KENTON Kenton was laid out by Charles W. Stevenson and William Furney, and the plat sent to Columbus for record in May or June, 1833. The sale of lots took place in October of the same year, although a few homes were already constructed before that date. John and William Dinwiddie lived in one of these with their mother and sisters. At .the time the village was surveyed there were only three or four cabins standing on the site. The public square was covered with trees, and there were a number of low and swampy spots which bred an abundance of malaria. There was no cleared land in the vicinity of the embryo village, but corn and vegetables were planted as soon as clearings were made, in order to furnish sustenance for those who had settled there. John W. Williams opened a tavern in a cabin on one corner of the square. William Furney celebrated the Fourth of July of the first year of this village by moving into HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 455 a new cabin, which had just been erected. In 1835 David Goodwin purchased the tavern, and kept what was for many years the principal inn of the village. Here men who worked on public improvements were accommodated, and, here also the political speakers were entertained when they came to address public meetings. Within a few years cabins began to spring up in every direction, and by 1840 all but twenty of the original 154 lots in the site had been sold, and some new additions to the town had been added. The first wedding in Kenton was that of Joseph McEntyre and Rebecca Pine, who were joined in matrimony by Squire George Houser. William Carey arrived in 1833 and opened a store in a log cabin. William Furney also kept a store in connection with his tavern, and John Sheeler had a stock of merchandise. Samuel Mentzer started a general store in 1876, and Robert Truman installed a boot and shoe store about the same time. Other merchants in various lines came in as the town began to grow. For many years John Kaiser made hats for the settlers, while Samuel Campbell fashioned their shoes. Daniel Barron opened up a tannery at an early day. Emi P. Hurd was the village blacksmith for a number of years. The descendants of many of these pioneer tradesmen still live in and are engaged in business in Kenton. The postoffice was first kept at Fort McArthur, but was removed to Kenton in 1834, and Alexander Thompson was appointed postmaster. The office was kept in the home of Eri Strong, who was the deputy postmaster, and his son Kenton was the first child born in the village. The name of Judge Alexander Thompson, who came in the year 1833, with his six small children, is closely associated with the pioneer history of the county. As there were no houses in the village, the family lived for a time at Fort McArthur, but shortly afterwards moved to Kenton. He was one of the first judges of the county. The first mayor of Kenton, after the incorporation in 1845, was William Jackson, and he was succeeded by E. G. Spellman. The jail is said to have been the first public building constructed in the new county. It was a double log house, erected on the public square in 1833, and was in size about 18 by 24 feet. It contained two rooms, one for the male prisoners and one for the female prisoners. This primitive structure was replaced in 1855 by a brick building, erected on the site of the present jail. This was thought at that time to be a very creditable institution, but a more modern jail was constructed in the year 1886, which is still in use. The courthouse was begun in 1834, on the east side of the public square. It was a little brick building, only 30 by 40 feet in size, and was completed in the following year. There was a hall down the middle of the building, with rooms on each side, and the second story was occupied as a courtroom. Although the pioneers were generally law abiding, yet the courts were not idle in this primitive place of justice. This building was used until it was destroyed by fire on March 4, 1853. The loss of the building itself was great enough, but the destruction of records was still more lamentable, for it was impossible to replace them. Just a month after the fire the citizens of the county voted on the proposition to erect a new courthouse, and the result was almost unanimous. The contract was let, and the contractors agreed to have the new building ready for occupancy one year from the date of its beginning. Owing to a number of delays, it was not completed in the specified time. The building is two stories in height, the courtroom being located on the second floor, and the county offices on the first. This building, erected more than three score of years ago, has been replaced by a handsome building of Bedford limestone in the Italian Renaissance style, dedicated in 1915. The Hardin County Armory was built in 456 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO 1894. It is one of the best public buildings in the county, and has proved to be of great convenience to the county. The armory is of goodly size, and several of the county officials formerly had their offices in it. When it was dedicated, on April 15, 1895, a grand military ball was held, at which Governor McKinley and his staff were present. It is now occupied by the Hardin County Athletic Club. The Village of Kenton was not a year old when the first school was established in a small cabin. This original temple of education was soon outgrown and a larger cabin was utilized, but it was still of the primitive log construction of the early days. In 1842 a site for a permanent school building was purchased by the members of the school board, which then consisted of David Goodin, Samuel Watt, and David Ross, and two small frame structures were quickly erected. The first instructors iii this building were James Holmes and Chauncey Drumm, who taught school at a salary of $10 each per month. This would not go far in the present era of high prices. It was not long until these buildings were inadequate for the growing school population, and it was necessary to rent rooms in other sections of the village. The real history of education, however, begins with the installation of the union school system in the year 1856, when the town was bonded for the sum of $10,000 to erect a. new brick building for the schools. This building was a familiar landmark for several generations, and was a three-story building with a dozen rooms. In 1899 this building, known as the Old Central Building, was completely destroyed by fire, but a new and modern building was commenced on the same site within the same year. There are now several ward schools in the city to accommodate the children of school age. The first superintendent of the school was Mr. Littlefield, who held that position during the year 1856-7, and he was succeeded by J. L. Bull, who also served for one year. The first religious organization in Kenton had its beginning in the little cabin built by George H. Houser, on the north bank of the Scioto River. In this cabin eight pioneers met and formed the society, which is now known as the First Methodist Church. During a revival in 1835, by Reverend Flemming, who was the first Methodist preacher in the village, the membership was largely increased. The first regular meeting-house constructed was a small frame building, erected in 1839, on the same lot as the log schoolhouse then in use. This building was used until 1852, when a brick edifice was erected and dedicated to the worship of God. Then it was that Rev. John S. Kalb was made the first resident minister, for prior to that time Kenton was only a station on a circuit. This church underwent several modifications, and was finally destroyed by fire in 1890. Shortly afterwards the present site at the corner of Main and North streets was purchased, and a new building of brown stone begun, which is a splendid type of church architecture. It was in 1836 that the first Presbyterian society was organized in Kenton, with Eri Strong and Reading Hineline as its elders. It was given the tame of the First Presbyterian Church of Kenton. Rev. J. B. Clark took charge of the society as its first stated supply in 1838, and remained here for several years. During that time Isaac Matthews, Solomon Adams, and Hugh Pugh were elected additional elders. The meetings in these days were alternated between the old courthouse and the frame school building of that day. Steps for the erection of a church building were taken in 1843, and within a few months a frame edifice had been erected. It had a steeple and a bell, and at the time of its erection was the finest public building in Kenton. This church was replaced by a more commodious structure in 1864, under Rev. H. HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 457 R. Peairs, which was dedicated in the year 1867. In 1881 a disastrous fire occurred, which destroyed the building, and the congregation was left homeless. For a time services were held in the vacant Baptist Church of that day, but a splendid new church was completed in 1886, which is still occupied by the congregation. The Associate Reform Church of Kenton was organized by Rev. James Gamble in 1840, under the direction of the Springfield Presbytery. The Associate Church of Kenton was formed in the following year by Rev. Samuel Wilson, under the auspices of the Miami Presbytery. Each denomination maintained its own house of worship for several years. With the union of the two denominations at Pittsburgh, in 1858, these congregations were united into one under the leadership of Rev. Benjamin Waddle. Rev. Mr. Waddle served as the honored pastor of this church until his death in 1879. His services were not confined to his parish, but he was a pastor of the community at large. He was held in the highest esteem by the members of all denominations, wherever he was known. He took part in every movement that promised good for the community. He represented the county in the Ohio Legislature for one term, and made a splendid record in that body. Shortly after his death the citizens' of the county erected a monument over his resting place in the beautiful Grove Cemetery, which stands as a. living memorial to the worth of the man. The present church was erected in 1891. St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized about 1838 by Reverend Fuhrmann, of Springfield, and a couple of years later Reverend Tanke came as the first regular pastor. A small church was erected at the corner of Carroll and Wayne streets in 1844, which served the congregation until 1877, when it was enlarged and remodeled at considerable cost. The First Baptist Church dates from 1850, when Rev. A. L. Hay came to take charge of the small congregation. A couple of years later the first church was erected on the site of the present building. During its early years the society had many hardships, and at times was without a pastor. Under the pastorate of Rev. Thomas J. Sheppard, the society greatly prospered, and the membership increased to such an extent that the beautiful brick structure still in use was erected. It was dedicated in November, 1890. The first Episcopal clergyman to visit Kenton was Reverend Doctor McElroy, but the date of his visit is uncertain. A Church Guild was organized in 1876 by Rev. A. B. Nicholas, who came from Bellefontaine to hold services. The name St. Paul's was adopted for the congregation. The services were held at first in a public hall, but in 1877 a lot was purchased. A log house standing upon this lot was changed into a chapel where, for the first time, the little congregation worshiped in its own church. In 1882 the present site was purchased, and a new church erected. Meetings of those of the Disciple faith were conducted in the county prior to the year 1854 by various preachers of that denomination. In 1854 Elder Calvin Smith came to Kenton, and instituted steps to organize a congregation in the town. A small building was completed within that same year and dedicated. The first resident pastor, who devoted his full time to this church, was Elder William Dowling, who was called as pastor in 1872. The congregation is now large and prosperous, and occupies a new building which was erected in the early '80s, under the pastorate of Rev. W. J. Lahman. Although priests had occasionally visited Kenton earlier, it was not until 1862 that regular services were established by the Society of the Most Precious Blood, of Minster, in Auglaize County. Four years later Rev. N. R. Young arrived as the first resident priest of the town. Various private dwellings and halls were used as the places of worship until 458 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO the present structure was begun in 1862, of which the cornerstone was laid by Archbishop Purcell. Two years later this building was dedicated by the same high church official. In 1871 Rev. Anthony S. Siebenfoercher took charge of the work, and most of the history of the Catholic Church in Kenton was made during his long and successful pastorate, which lasted until 1905, when he retired from active work. He lived to see the feeble congregation increase many fold in number and in influence in the community. It was during the pastorate of Father Siebenfoercher that Antonio Hospital, named in his honor, was erected. He was not only the founder, but the chief benefactor of this charitable and beneficial institution. Its beginning in 1897 was very modest, for there were but nine rooms in the institution. From that small beginning it has grown to its present proportions, and it is today a credit to the city in every. way. It is now housed in a substantial brick building, completed in 1907, at which time it was dedicated by Rev. Henry Moeller, Archbishop of Cincinnati. This added twenty-five rooms to the institution. As early as 1853 there was an organization in Kenton known as the Kenton Library Association, which was formed for the purpose of eventually establishing a public library in the growing city, and for the purpose of bringing to the city noted men as lecturers. No active steps were taken to establish a library until 1886, when a committee of the leading citizens of the city was held to discuss plans for installing a library. A few months later a room was opened with a modest supply of good books, and a charter was secured for the Kenton Library Association. The first funds were solicited from citizens, and occasionally entertainments were given to add new books to the shelves. An appeal was finally made to Andrew Carnegie for funds to erect a library building, and a donation of $20,000 was secured. Work was then begun upon the present beautiful building on North Detroit Street, the site of which was the gift of Lewis Merriman. At that time this lot was valued at $10,000. The building is one of which a much larger city might well be proud, and it is furnished in a manner wholly befitting its use. When Masonry entered Hardin County there was no lodge nearer than Marion. Neither Lima nor Findlay as yet had established a lodge of this order, and its introduction into Kenton was due to two enthusiastic members, John Stevens, Jr., and Dr. John A. Rogers. It was on the 17th day of June, 1848, that a dispensation was granted for the establishment of a lodge in Kenton, and shortly afterwards a charter was granted to Latham Lodge, No. 154. John A. Rogers lived to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the establishment of Latham Lodge. The first worshipful master of the lodge was Abner Root, and he was succeeded by James Mumford, who died in office. The first lodge room was located in the second story of the building at the corner of Franklin and Market streets, and rented quarters were occupied until the Masonic Temple Association was organized and a brick residence purchased in 1902. A dispensation was granted to the petitioners in 1869 for a chapter of the Royal Arch Masons. A few months later a charter was issued to the Scioto Chapter, No. 119, and a short time afterwards the chapter was properly installed, with eleven charter members. Robert Bruce Lodge, No. 101, Knights of Pythias, was instituted September 4, 1876. W. J. Niblock was elected P. C., and the first C. C. of the lodge was A. B. Johnson. There were thirty-seven members in the original charter list, but the lodge has grown and prospered until it is one of the leading secret orders of the city. For a score of years there was a rival lodge known as Pythian Lodge, No. 164, but the two were finally consolidated in 1903, and the consolidated lodge is known as Pythian Lodge, No. 101. In 1846 HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 459 the first effort was made to start a lodge of the Odd Fellows, and in the same year a charter was granted for such a society. In the following year Amicitia Lodge, No. 79, was instituted, with Jeremiah MacLene as N. G., and S. G. Donald as V. G. of the new organization. Kenton Lodge, No. 157, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, was organized February 27, 1890. Joseph Timmons was elected exalted ruler, and Hugh L. Runkle the esteemed leading knight. The lodge is in a flourishing condition, and has always been one of the leading social organizations in the city since its founding. ADA Ada is the second town of importance in Hardin County, and is situated in the center of Liberty Township. This section of the county was settled in the early '30s, when Marshall Candler came into it from Allen County. In the first election, held in 1837, there were eleven votes cast in that township. William Mitchell, a resident of Fort Wayne, bought a quarter of section of land that is now largely covered by the Village of Ada. When S. N. Johnson located a sawmill here in 1853, the Town of Ada seemed to spring into life. The shipment of lumber, staves, and heading over the new railroad developed an industry which employed a number of workmen. It was in 1853 that Mr. Johnson laid out a part of the town, which then bore his name, Johnstown, and a postoffice was established in the same year. It was afterwards changed by the postoffice department to Ada, because there was another Johnstown in the state. The early buildings were scattered around the depot. The village was incorporated in 1861, and H. H. Gilbert was elected the first mayor. Ada received her first real impetus in 1872, when Professor Lehr established the normal school here that afterwards turned into the great university, which is described elsewhere. The Ada Record was launched, and the village emerged from its chrysalis state. The progress of the village has been steady since that time, and it now enjoys many of the advantages of a city. One of our noted men is said to have called it the "biggest little town" that he ever saw. Ada has always been noted for its moral and mental culture. It is said that more of its people regularly attend church than many other towns of twice its size in the state. The Methodist Episcopal Church is one of the finest stone churches in Northwest Ohio. When the famous Murphy movement swept over the country in 1876, great meetings were held here, at which hundreds signed the pledge. The temperance sentiment has always been strong, and on three different occasions Ada has voted "dry" by large majorities. There are six flourishing churches, of which the Presbyterian is the oldest. FOREST The Town of Forest was laid out and platted by John A. Gormley in 1855, along the newly constructed railroad, now a part of the Pennsylvania system. It is the third town in size in the county, was incorporated in 1865, and has since been under the village government. It was at first badly handicapped by Patterson, at that time a flourishing village, but Patterson has dwindled while Forest has continued to grow. Two railroads have contributed to its prosperity. The Presbyterian Church was organized in 1849 by Reverend Clark, and services were held for a time in the barn of David Warner, a couple of miles south of the village. At that time the membership was small and scattered, and services were conducted only when a minister could be procured. When Forest was begun, the church was moved to the new village, although a part of the congregation withdrew 460 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO and established a church in Patterson. The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in the year 1859, and the first pastor was Lorenzo Dow Rodgers. A church was built in 1864, and this original building has been replaced by a large and finer edifice. The Methodist Protestant Society dates from 1869, when the Rev. C. S. Evans formally organized it. For a time services were held in the schoolhouse, but this new church was dedicated in 1871. The Baptist Society is the latest church to be organized in Forest, and their present church was erected in 1904. The Rev. Samuel Fasig was the first pastor. DUNKIRK Dunkirk, like several of the other towns of the county, owes its success to the construction of the Ohio and Indiana Railroad. The original plat was recorded in 1852, and consisted of twenty-six lots. Robert D. Miller surveyed the site for Hugh D. Miller, the proprietor, and it was named after the town of the same name in New York. A number of additions have since been added to the original plat. The first family to move into the town was George Kinser, and he was followed by John Watters. Renatus Gum opened a small store in the spring of 1852, where he sold tea, coffee, tobacco, and whisky. He also sold the first dry goods in the village. A little later he changed his occupation, and opened up a. hotel called the Green House. He was succeeded in the business of selling merchandise by William Porterfield. The first child born in the village was Anderson K. Watters, who was born in 1851. Moses Louther was the first pedagogue in the new settlement, and the earliest religious society was the United Brethren, organized in 1859. Dunkirk was incorporated in 1868, and has ever since been a prosperous business center. At that time it had but 250 inhabitants, but its present size is about four times that number. The postoffice at Dunkirk was established during the administration of President Pierce, and W. S. Wiles was appointed the first postmaster. The Dunkirk Standard was established by G. N. Kingsbury in 1909. There are five religious societies in the village, as follows : Wesleyan Methodist (1877), Seventh Day Adventist (1899), Church of Christ (1895), United Brethren (1860), and Methodist Episcopal (1835). OTHER VILLAGES Mount Victory was surveyed by Ezra Dille, the county surveyor, for Robert D. Millar, in 1851. At that time there was a single cabin on the townsite, but the construction of the railroad brought several other inhabitants. Thomas McCall became one of the earliest, if not the earliest, merchants in the village, and Jefferson Babcock kept the first inn. The first postmaster was David Ellis, and Doctor Converse had the honor of being the first physician in the settlement. The Village of Alger was platted in 1882, and was incorporated in 1896. It was originally named Jagger, after Elias Jagger, who owned lands on which the town was located. It was afterwards changed to Alger, in honor of Hon. Russel A. Alger, of Michigan. The Town of McGuffey was laid out in 1890, and named in honor of John McGuffey. In 1896 it was incorporated. Ridgeway is a pleasant little town on the extreme southern boundary of the county, and was located on land owned by William Boggs and Samuel McCulley in 1856. It was named after the family which had originally owned the land. The town was incorporated under the name of West Ridgeway in 1858. The first house was occupied by Abner Snoddy, and his first neighbor was Gorham Bunker. Dola was originally called North Washington When it was platted in 1852 by A. Landis and Judy Shaw. The name was changed in 1907. Other villages in the county are Grant, Hepburn, Foraker, Huntersville, Silver Creek, and Silverton. CHAPTER XXXVI HENRY COUNTY CHARLES E. REYNOLDS, NAPOLEON Traversed as it is by the historic Maumee River, Henry County has an important place in the history of Northwestern Ohio. The Indians were familiar with its territory, and their moccasined feet threaded its wooded forests, while their bark canoes sailed over its waters. The French traders and trappers were probably the first white men who visited Henry County, and the hunters settled themselves along its banks for temporary periods while they were searching for the game which furnished them a livelihood. These Men did nothing to subdue nature. The rifle and the dog were generally their only companions; the hunt and the trap were their only means of support. Finally came the man with the ax, and in his footsteps followed the saw-mill. The monster oaks were now felled and rafted to Montreal and Quebec, and then across the Atlantic, where they were converted into vessels to ply the storming seas. No great, battles occurred within Henry County in the conquest of this land from the red men, but the American armed forces passed through it many times on their way to and fro between Fort Defiance and the lower rapids of the Miami of the Lake. They established their bivouacs along or near the river, while their scouts made their way ahead of the troops searching for signs of the in order to prevent an ambuscade which might prove disastrous to the army. A part of Henry County was the last of the hunting grounds of the Indians in this section. The reservation of the Ottawa Indians included a part of this county, and they remained there until finally removed to their western homes. There were three chiefs of this tribe in the latter days, who were named Oxinoxica, Wauseon, and Myo, and they ranked in the order named. Myo was a small but exceedingly wise and very cunning Indian. He died on the Maumee, and his skull was preserved for many years by Dr. L. L. Patrick, one of the pioneer physicians who had the courage to combat malaria and the "shakes" along the Maumee. The settlement of Henry County was a little later than the region immediately surrounding Fort Miami. In the year 1830, when the first inventory of the inhabitants was made, the census takers were able to find only 260 persons, young and old, in the county as it was then constituted, which. was much larger in area than it is at the present time. Froth. these facts it is probably fair to presume that a decade prior there was not to exceed a dozen families in the county, and probably not more than fifty or sixty white inhabitants. One of the earliest, if not the earliest, settlements within what is now Henry County was located at or near Damascus, and a few miles below Napoleon. There resided here in the earliest days of which we have a record of white settlers, John Patrick, farmer and enemy, Indian trader ; "Sammy" and David Bowers, who were traders and farmers ; Elisha Scribner, Charles Bucklin and his father, Squire Bucklin, Richard Gunn, Carver Gunn, and Osman Gunn, all of them farmers ; Judge Cory, - 461 - 462 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO who was the oldest farmer in the village, and Samuel Vance, brother of Governor Vance, who occupied himself as an Indian fur trader in addition to farming. Others settling there were David DeLong and his sons, Jefferson and Nicholas. These men, together with their families, made up what was for those days quite a settlement. The origin of the name is somewhat obscure,' but it is believed to be a corruption of the name Prairie du Masque, a name given it by some early French adventurers. Of the early settlers who came a little bit later than those just named, Hazael Strong was one of the most prominent. He came from Vermont, in the year 1833, and served as the first auditor of the county, having been appointed to that position by the associate judges at the time the county was organized. He held the office until his successor was elected at the first general election. Mr. Strong also filled the office of county recorder, county surveyor, and clerk of the court, a position which he held for fourteen years. When Jared and Susanna Scofield reached what is now Henry County, after a laborious overland journey through the Black Swamp from Lower Sandusky, wild game was still plentiful. There were fourteen in the emigrant train of two families. For some time they were obliged to camp in regular Indian style. They erected cabins near Girty's Island. Mr. Scofield was elected a trustee at the first township election in Flat Rock Township. Samuel Vance erected a double log house on the banks of the Maumee, somewhere in the '20s, and suspended a sign in front of it announcing "accommodation for man and beast." The cellar of this primitive hostelry still remains near the Town of Damascus. John Shasteen came with his parents in 1826, while the footprints of the savages were still fresh in the sands. He became a man of great influence in the community during a long and useful life. John Powell permanently located in the county in the year 1835. When Mr. Powell settled in the county, Napoleon consisted of only a log house, which was owned by a man of the name of Andrews. Several log houses were added to the place during the summer in which he arrived. He held many political positions, among which were township clerk, county auditor, justice of the peace, and associate judge, a position HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 463 which he filled for one term. Mr. Powell was elected to the office of county commissioner for three terms. He first began business in Napoleon as a shoemaker, but later drifted into merchandise, and from that to the position of landlord of a tavern. When Edwin Scribner reached Henry County, as a lad of eight years, in 1816, there was not at that time a road in the county other than Indian trails. To obtain flour and meal it was necessary to carry the wheat to the mill at Monroe, Michigan. When a lad of only thirteen years of age, he rode on horseback and alone to Greenville, and brought back with him a bundle of rolls of wool to be spun and woven into clothing for the family. He erected the first saw-mill in Henry County, on what is known as Dry Creek. George Stout came to Napoleon in .the autumn of 1834. He purchased a town lot, and built the second log cabin in the place. While he lived here he erected a public house, or tavern, into which his family moved a few months later. This was opened for the entertainment of guests as soon as it could be made ready. The first two or three terms of the Common Pleas Court were held in the dining room of this hotel, and the first grand jury slept in the haymow in the barn. For a distance of fifteen miles from the river on both sides the county was a vast and unbroken wilderness. It was in the early part of the. year. 1820 that Henry County, along with several other of the counties of Northwestern Ohio, was officially set off as a subdivision. A recent treaty with the Indians had left at the disposal of the authorities a large amount of land which, for the better .administration of affairs, it was deemed best to erect into counties. This county was so named in honor of Patrick Henry, the distinguished statesman of. colonial days, whose eloquent voice was so Often heard in upholding the cause of the struggling American colonies in the days of their infancy. At that time there was probably not a sufficient number of residents in the county to fill the public offices. It was provided, however, by this act that Henry, with four other counties, was to be attached to Wood County until otherwise directed by law. The temporary seat of justice was then at Maumee. It was not until 1823 that there were enough people to organize a township, and then the entire county was formed into one township, called Damascus. Henry County continued in this position for four years, when an act was passed in 1824 providing that Williams County should be organized, and that Henry, Putnam, and Paulding counties should be attached to Williams for judicial purposes. It was further ordered that the legal electors of this county should meet and hold an election for the public officials on the 1st of April, "who shall hold their several offices until the next annual election." It was provided that court for these counties should be held at Defiance, then in the County of Williams, until otherwise provided by law. Thus it was that for a time Defiance became the seat of justice for Henry County. COUNTY ORGANIZATION It was in the year 1834 that Henry County was organized as an entirely independent county, with its own corps of county officials, and the right to hold courts within its own boundaries. No longer was it dependent on any of its neighbors. The outlines of the county have been changed since then on several occasions. When Lucas County was set off, Henry County was called upon to surrender a portion of .her territory in the formation of this new unit. Again in 1845, Henry County was compelled to yield a portion of territory in the formation' of Defiance County, and in 1850 another portion was appropriated in the creation of Fulton County, 464 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO thus further diminishing its territory. So sparse was the population then that ten counties, including Henry, Lucas and Williams, were entitled to only a single representative in the Legislature. When Henry County was regularly organized, three commissioners, not, residents of the county, were appointed in accordance with an act passed, upon whom fell the duty of locating the seat of justice. In the pursuance of this duty, these commissioners visited the county, viewed the several locations, heard the "pros and cons," and finally fixed the seat of justice at the little town of Napoleon. The next necessary proceeding was the selection of county officials, who were to hold their respective offices until the general election in October following. These initial officials of the county, to whom fell the duty of introducing home government into the county, were Pierce Evans, Reuben Waite, and David J. Corry, associate judges; Newton Evans, clerk of the courts; Xenophen Mead, Amos Cole and Allen Brougher, county commissioners; Hazael Strong, auditor; Israel White, treasurer ; Elkanch Husted, sheriff ; William Bower, coroner; Frederick Lord, prosecuting attorney. When the election was held a few months later, all of these officers were reelected with a single exception. Samuel Bowers was elected to the office of sheriff in place of Mr. Husted, who had removed from the county. The total number of votes cast at this election was ninety-seven. The first term of court was held at the tavern of George Stout, a short distance north of the river, and was presided over by Judge David Higgins, who came up the river on horseback for that purpose. The early records of the courts and the county officials were destroyed by fire when the frame courthouse was burned in 1847, and there are no records of the early county proceedings available for the historian. One of the first duties of the commissioners was the necessity of providing a proper place for the holding of court, and for the administration of the affairs of the county. For this purpose George Stout erected an addition to his tavern by agreement with the commissioners. As a court was' held but twice a year, and then only for a few days at a time, the landlord enjoyed undisputed possession of the room the rest of the year. After court had adjourned it was customary to hold an old-fashioned country dance in which the officials, tenants, litigants, and witnesses took part. The log courthouse answered the needs of the county for several years, where justice was administered to all, but a larger and more adequate building at length became necessary as the county grew more populous. The first frame courthouse was erected in 1844, near the site of the present building. It was a plain, two-story structure, with the court rooms on, the upper floor, while the offices of the county officials were on the lower floor. It was built by Michael Shuman at a cost of $2,000. A log -jail was at first in use for prisoners and offenders' against the law in general, but it finally became necessary to erect a more substantial and secure place of confinement. The most 'noted escape from this jail was that of a white man who had murdered three unoffending Indians. For a while the prisoners were taken to Maumee City for confinement, but in the new courthouse a jail was provided in the basement which answered the purpose. An incendiary fire destroyed this second courthouse, and none of the records were saved excepting a few of the tax duplicates. This was indeed a serious loss to a new and struggling county. Another courthouse was needed at once, but it was delayed for some time because of the agitation for the removal of the .county seat. Damascus and Florida were both bidders for the prize. The fight raged over the election of the county commissioners, in whom the power of removal of situation rested. The commissioners took HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 465 the following action on the 7th of March, 1848 : "Whereas, the subject of erecting public buildings for the county of Henry is being agitated in different parts of the county at this time; and whereas, a majority of the people of the county are opposed to the erection of such buildings, or any contract for the same, until the subject of the removal of the county seat shall have been fairly and fully canvassed by the people at the next annual election, and their wishes acted upon by the Legislature at its next session; therefore, "Resolved, that the subject of erecting, con tracting for or constructing public buildings for Henry county, be postponed until after the rising of the next General Assembly." The matter was finally settled, however, in 1849. Two town lots were donated by the proprietors of the town and were added to the grounds formerly owned, and new buildings were erected. In due course of time a jail and temple of justice were combined in Vol. I-30 one building, which was a plain structure, two stories high, and built for convenience and practical utility rather than ornamentation: The room for the incarceration of criminals was on the lower portion, which was protected on the sides by heavy stone walls. Another building was constructed for the county officials: This courthouse was in turn destroyed by fire in 1879. Then it was that the present courthouse, which is the. pride of Napoleon, was constructed for county use in 1880-2. It stands on a slight elevation, which makes the building visible for many miles over the level surrounding country. It is built of brick, with Berea sandstone trimmings. A square tower, surmounted by a figure of justice, rises to a height of 150 feet above the ground. A separate building was also erected to serve as a jail and a residence for the sheriff. "In the year 1852, those holding office under the county government were as follows : Probate judge, Harvey Allen; clerk of the 466 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO courts, A. H. Tyler; auditor, William J. Jackson ; sheriff, Daniel Yarnell ; treasurer, George Stebbins; prosecuting attorney, Edward Sheffield; recorder, A. Craig; county surveyor, Paul P. Doud ; county commissioners, David Harley, D. F. Welsted, Charles Hornung." David Higgins served as the first president judge of the County of Henry after its formation, and with him were associated David J. Cory, Reuben Waite, and Pierce Evans. Frederick Lord was appointed to act as prosecuting attorney. J. N. Evans was clerk, and E. Husted, sheriff. Judge Higgins was succeeded in 1837 by Ozias Bowen, who held courts here for several years. Bowen was afterwards elected to the State Supreme Court. When the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit was created, in 1839, Emery D. Potter was elected to the office of presiding judge and continued to hold court in this county for five years, when he resigned to take a seat in Congress, to which body he had just been elected. Judge Potter was succeeded by Myron H. Tilden, who afterwards became president of the Cincinnati Law School. When the District Court was organized, Frederick Lord and William H. Berry were the only attorneys living in the county. Mr. Berry succeeded Mr. Lord as prosecutor, and he was succeeded in turn by James G. Haley, the third attorney, who was admitted to the bar in 1840. He also served in the Legislature and as probate judge. Nearly all of these early attorneys served their turn as prosecuting attorney of the county. James McKenzie located here for a while, and afterwards drifted into the newspaper work at Kalida. Edward and William Scheffield settled in Napoleon about the year 1841, and began the practice of law. The former rose to a position of commanding influence at the bar. Ebenezer Lathrop was also one of the early pioneer lawyers, and in addition there were a number of circuit riders, as they were called, who followed the courts around and practiced at Napoleon as well as elsewhere. When the state was divided into nine common pleas districts, in 1852, John M. Palmer was elected judge in the subdivision in which Henry County was located. His first term of court was commenced on the 24th day of May, 1852. Alexander S. Latty, of Paulding County, succeeded him, and served for twenty years. Selwyn N. Owen, of Williams County, afterwards a member of the Supreme Court of the state, was one of the judges who presided over this court. Michael Donnelly was admitted to the bar in 1880. He was first chosen to the Common Pleas bench, but in November, 1905, was elected one of the circuit judges. This was merged in the Court of Appeals, and on this bench he served very acceptably until his death in 1915. Harvey Allen was the first probate judge of the county. He was elected in 1851, and took charge of his office in February of the following year. He was succeeded by Thomas C. Morrison, who also served for a number of years in that court. Mr. Morrison was editor of the Northwest, and had been admitted to the bar, although he had never practiced law. When he died in 1864, William M. Beckman was appointed by the governor to fill the vacancy. Justin H. Tyler arrived in Napoleon in 1852, and lived here until his death in 1910. During the years of his active practice he was one of the most prominent men at the Henry County bar, and filled a number of the offices to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. Sinclair M. Hague came to Henry County in 1859 and located in Napoleon, and was followed in the succeeding year by James A. Parker. There are many other attorneys who came to Napoleon in later years, who achieved eminence in their profession and have been honored by their fellow citizens. William W. Campbell has served his constituents as prosecuting attorney, and was elected to the HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 467 United States Congress. D. D. Donavin likewise was honored by election to that high legislative. body. Both of these members of the Henry County bar filled this position with honor to themselves and credit to the community. There is little record remaining of the pioneer physicians of Henry County. Dr. William B. Barry was probably the first physician of Napoleon, but he afterwards practiced law and became prominent in the community, holding several positions of trust. Dr. Harris Harvey came from the State of New York and practiced here for a number of years, after which he emigrated to the West. The name of Dr. Lorenzo L. Patrick was very familiar to the early families of the Maumee Valley. He was practicing here as early as 1836, and was prominent in all the affairs of town and county. Dr. Jonathan F. Evans resided in Richland Township, but had a large practice all over the county. Doctor Bamber came to Napoleon about the year 1840 and enjoyed a considerable progress here until his removal east. Among other early physicians of the county were Drs. E. M. McCann, Asa H. Tyler, O. H. Tyler, Henry McHenry, Dr. E. B. Harrison, and Gibbons Parry. Robert K. Scott came to Henry County in 1851, and began the practice of medicine at Florida. After five years he drifted into the mercantile business. He entered into the service of the county in 1861 as major of the Sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and retired from that service as major-general. After the war he was sent to South Carolina as commissioner of freedmen, refugees, and abandoned lands. Having gained a reputation in that state, he was placed in nomination by the republican state convention for the office of governor in 1868, and was elected by a large majority. Two years later he was re-elected to that high office. In 1878 he returned to Napoleon, and remained there until his death in 1900. One of the potent influences in promoting the agricultural interests of Henry County is the organization known as the Patrons of Husbandry, which at one time had a' very large membership among the farmers. It not only stimulated scientific tillage of the soil, but also gave a standing and dignity to the farmer's vocation. In 1883 a small fair was held under its auspices in the hall of Harrison Grange, at which farmers made exhibits of their choicest products. In the following year the Henry County Grange Fair was duly instituted and a board of ten directors selected. John Garster was elected president, and E. M. Hollipeter was chosen secretary. Grounds' were leased four miles east of Napoleon, and appropriate buildings erected. The ensuing fair was a great success, and it has been repeated each year since that date. In a few years the name was changed to the Henry County Farmers' Association, but it is now known as the Henry County Agricultural Fair. NAPOLEON When Napoleon became the county seat, in 1835, there were only a few residents, who had been attracted by the beauty of the location and the fertility of the soil. It had the appearance of a crossroads settlement, with its several log cabins in close proximity, to each other. According to the best' information, the first log dwelling was erected either by Mr. Huston or Mr. Andrew. A little later George Stout constructed a similar edifice, which he opened for the benefit of the traveling public, and he then became the earliest landlord of the settlement. These early citizens were of the energetic type, however, who later worked diligently and unceasingly for the town and its welfare. In addition to those already mentioned in this chapter, Henry Leonard, or, as he was generally known, "General" Leonard, was one of the prominent. He was a tavern keeper, and his 468 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO tavern was liberally patronized, for it was a place of, resort for all. John Glass had a more pretentious home than his neighbors, for it was a frame building. He was a man-of-all-work, for he could butcher an animal, build a stone wall or chimney, or turn his hand to almost any kind of employ- ment. He was one of the first county officers, having been elected treasurer, and made a good official. John Mann was another of the town pioneers. He was a blacksmith and gunsmith by trade, but was also handy at almost anything that he attempted. Judging from the demands for the service of Mr. Mann, one would think that the gun of the average Indian was always getting out of repair. Around his house almost any day there were half a dozen or more Indians waiting to have their guns "fixed up." He was popular among the natives and the whites as well.. 'He had served with General Harrison at the siege of Fort Meigs, during which time of trial he had a good record. Alex Craig, generally known as Judge Craig, kept one of the more pretentious houses of the town. He was a tailor by trade, but he was elected sheriff of the county for a couple of terms, and served as associate judge, from which service he received his title. After retiring from his office, he was made recorder of the county. By industry and economy he acquired a fair competency. John Powell was one of the earlier merchants, and a man of more than ordinary intelligence. He served as county auditor and associate judge. Hazael Strong, auditor, surveyor, and county clerk, came there in 1834 and figured prominently in the community. He filled the office of county clerk for a period of about fifteen years. James Magell, a successful business man, was also very prominent in the early days of Napoleon. One of the early residents of the village, and one who was highly esteemed by the inhabitants, 'was James B. Steedman, better known as General Steed- man. He came here in the early days of the county as a contractor. He knew everybody, and everybody knew him. If Mr. Steedman once met a person, he never forgot the face. He, did not live here many years, but he used to return frequently to renew his acquaintances. He was a good business man and made money. He married Sarah Miranda Stiles, a popular 'young lady of this village. While living there he was elected a member of the Ohio Legislature, when the district included eight counties. As a legislator he earned an honorable distinction as an able member of that body. Napolon was laid out by Horatio G. Phillip, Benjamin Leavell, and Elnathan Cory, in the year 1834. The survey was made by Miller Arrowsmith, and the certificate was acknowledged before William Leonard, justice of the peace, on October 15, 1834. Why it was so named, no one has ever satisfactorily explained. It was originally intended to lay out this town farther down the river, at a place now known as " Goosetown," and on lower land, but a rise of the waters of the river changed their plans. The original plat contained only a small portion of the present site of Napoleon, as it covered only twelve blocks in each of which there were eight lots, excepting on the south side of Front Street, which was laid out into twelve lots. The whole number of lots was only 112. The lots were freely disposed of. Since then the limits have been extended several times to meet the growing needs of the community, although it has never had any spasmodic development. It was a number of years before the Village of Napoleon had any corporate existence, and it was simply part of the township of the same name. Its officials were those of the township. The village began to grow quite rapidly two or three years after its establishment, and especially after work began on the Miami and Erie Canal. Soon after 1850, the residents of the town began to feel the neces- HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 469 sity of  corporate existence, as the village had assumed considerable proportions and had a sufficient population. The subject was discussed for a year or two, and in the early part of 1853 action was taken leading to that end. This was delayed for several years because of agitation over a change of the name from Napoleon, which did not suit the majority of the inhabitants, to Henry. They wanted something "more expressive of things American." A petition was presented to the county commissioners, as follows : "To the commissioners of Henry county. The undersigned, legal voters of the town of Napoleon, respectfully ask your honorable body to incorporate the following territory, to wit : Northeast fractional quarter, containing 116.93 acres ; northeast fractional south half, 82.24 ; east half northwest quarter, 80 acres ; west fractional south half, 75.44 ; west half, northwest quarter, 80 ; containing four hundred and thirty-four and sixty-one hundredths acres, and being all in section thirteen, in township number five, north of range number six east, (sec. 13, T. 5, R. 6E.). Said territory to be incorporated into a village, and to be called 'Henry.' for a more particular description of which territory, and the relative position thereof, you. are referred to the accompanying plat, showing that portion of section thirteen north of the Maumee River proposed to be included in said limits of incorporation. We also state that Dr. Lorenzo Patrick is fully authorized to act in behalf of the petitioners in prosecuting this petition. Napoleon, O., Fev. 28, 1853. (Signed) W. J. Jackson, L. L. Patrick, Wm. C. Brownell, W. H. Moe, George Stebbins, John Glass, John Powell, Enoch L. Mann, J. P. Rowen, Isaac Lightcap, John McCartney, Paul P. Doud, Thomas Yarnell, A. Craig, D. M. McCann, Alph M. Hollabaugh, William Dodd (out of the limit), W. H. Mallory, Harrison V. Conway, James 0. Caldwell, Henry N. Low, Josiah Pearce, J. W. Steward, James Armstrong, Thomas Barrett, G. C. Eastman, Adam Howk, Israel Strole (not a resident), J. H. Tyler, Jr. Glass, A. H. Tyler, S. R. Mc-Bane, Isaac Van Horn, H. D. Taylor, George McCann." The proposition also met with a determined opposition, which was led by Augustin Pilliod, himself a Frenchman. The petition was allowed, but the friends of the name Napoleon were not dismayed. When election day came around at which city officials were to be chosen, they made such a demonstration that the election could not proceed. Proceedings were stopped and the meeting was adjourned for a year. The newspaper, Northwest, had even dropped Napoleon and substituted Henry in its headline. The excitement passed away, but the incorporation of the county seat was delayed for a decade. It was not until the year 1863 that a petition signed by 150 persons, residents and tax payers, asking for incorporation, was filed with the commissioners of Henry County. On the 2d of June of that year, it was incorporated as a village with the name of Napoleon. As soon as the organization was completed, an election was ordered to elect officers to administer the affairs of the village. Justin H. Tyler was elected the first mayor, and Ransom C. Reynolds was chosen recorder. George W. Waterman, Henry Kahlo, Daniel Yarnell, and George Bogart composed the first elected council. Napoleon has frequently, by action of municipal authorities, enlarged its corporate limits, so that at the present time it covers a much greater area than it did in 1863. One addition on the south side of the Maumee River is still known as South Napoleon. Prior to 1870, the village possessed no fire apparatus whatever. There was not a volunteer or other organization for the fighting of fires, and there was not even so much as a bucket brigade. At the first alarm of fire, however, the whole city stood ready to render such assistance as was possible, and there was 470 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO no lack of volunteers on hand, with a plentiful supply of pails and buckets. It was not until a serious conflagration in 1869, that the matter of fire protection was given serious thought. In the following year a small tax was assessed, and a fire engine was purchased. The first engineer of the steamer purchased was J. B. Reno, and he was succeeded by George Flenner. The first chief of the department was Oscar E. Barnes. With the installation of a waterworks system in 1899, the effectiveness of this department was much increased, and modern equipment has replaced the antiquated apparatus of the earlier days. The building now used by the fire department was built in 1875 by George Lightheiser, and is a substantial three-story building. The rear rooms also answer for the city bastile, while the upper rooms house the municipal offices. A futile attempt was made to start a newspaper in Napoleon in 1845 by Martin Schrunk, who issued a small paper called the Journal. It was whig in politics but did not last long. On the 8th day of September, 1852, the first permanent newspaper appeared in Napoleon. It was christened the Northwest, and was issued by Alpheas M. Hollabaugh. It was a small paper and carried less than a column of advertisements. It had no circulation worth mentioning. After a couple of years the Northwest fell into the hands of Thomas S. C. Morrison. After the death of Mr. Morrison, in 1864, the Northwest was suspended for a few weeks, but was revived by John M. Haag. Under this management it soon became a most influential factor in the life of the community. In 1869 the paper passed into the hands of Coughlin and Hubbard, and was enlarged. In 1875 it became the property of Luther L. Orwig, and it has remained with this family until this date. The News, a rival paper, published by W. E. Decker, was purchased and the publication is now known as the Northwest-News. It long filled the position of one of the leading country journals of this section of the state, and has done much to formulate and direct the policy of the democratic party in this section. In 1859 fire destroyed the plant. The type metal was collected and taken to a foundry, where it was cast into cannon. In firing it at a celebration, this cannon seriously mutilated five or six men. At a political meeting at Chroninger's schoolhouse it exploded, but fortunately caused no serious injuries on this occasion. In 1854 the Star appeared in Napoleon as a whig paper. It proved to be only transitory, however, and scintillated for only about a year. L. H. Bigelow issued the Republican in the year 1865. It was printed in Toledo, but likewise soon succumbed, since the republicans were so greatly in the minority. The Signal made its appearance in the following year, with George W. Redway as editor. It was such a vigorous republican organ that it attracted .the party patronage. Mr. Redway sold it to J. S. Foulke and D. B. Ainger, the latter finally becoming sole owner. Mr. Foulke purchased the complete plant again in 1873, and published the Signal for a number of years. It then passed into the hands of H. M. Wisler for a time, and later to J. P. Belknap. It is still published, and has great influence in the community. The first German paper published in the county was the Democratischer Wegweiser. It was established by J. M. Haag, then of the Northwest, in 1867. It Was edited by John M. Evers, and continued for about a year. Der Henry County Demokrat was started in 1885 by C. W. Benty & Co., with Mr. Benty as editor. It has reached a very satisfactory circulation among the German-speaking population. It is now known as Der Deutsche Demokrat. The present owner is O. K. Evers. Like all primitive villages, education at Napoleon began in a very humble way. A little log building that stood near Craig's old HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 471 tavern was first utilized for the instruction of the youth. It did not take a large building in those days. School was held here as early as, 1837. The teacher was Miss Mary Whipple. The building was poorly arranged for a schoolhouse, but it was better than none and served the purpose for a short time. A number of those who became prominent in the village in later days attended school here. When the schools were finally organized, in 1858, the six school directors elected were William Dodd, John Powell, J. A. Stout, W. J. Jackson, H. McHenry, and Justin H. Tyler. These men constituted the first board of education. Charles Horr was employed as the first teacher of the high school, at a salary of $50 per month. The Misses S. S. Powell and H. E. Reynolds were engaged as primary teachers at $18 per month. The first union school building erected was destroyed by fire, but shortly afterward a three-story brick building was erected, which is still in use. When South Napoleon was added to the municipality, a fine school building was erected in 1884 to accommodate the students of that section. Napoleon is well supplied with religious edifices. When Bishop Rappe visited Napoleon, in 1856, he found about eight Catholic families, whom he encouraged to build a little church. The most of these members were poor in this world's goods, and had large families to support by their daily labor. Hence they were able to spare little of their hard earnings in the building of a church. It was then that a liberal-hearted Frenchman, Augustine Pilliod, took the matter in hand, and, with the assistance of some other families, a small building 24 by 30 was built, and named St. Augustine Church. The entire building did not cost more than $500, which was indeed a humble beginning. For a time this congregation was served by Rev. F. Westerholt, who lived in Defiance, and he was succeeded by Rev. A. J. Hoeffel. As the congre gation had considerably increased, the first resident pastor was assigned here in 1864, in the person of Rev. P. J. Carroll. Under his administration an addition was added to the original church which almost doubled its size, and a tower built, which was paid for by John H. Vocke. At the same time a little frame schoolhouse was put up for the parochial schools, which were placed in charge of the pastor's sister, Ellen Carroll. A splendid new church was begun in 1880, which was dedicated with an appropriate and impressive ceremony on the 17th of June, 1883. The extreme height from the ground to the gilded cross is 175 feet. Rev. M. Putz came to this church in 1870, and has faithfully served the congregation since that time. The Lutheran Church is represented in Napoleon by a strong and aggressive congregation, known as St. Paul's. Its influence throughout the community has been very great, and many of the leading families have been connected' with it. Its history dates from 1856, when a meeting was held under the auspices of Rev. P. Ruprecht. For a number of years prior to this date occasional services had been held in private houses by Lutheran ministers who came from other towns. In 1855 a number of services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Koenig in Goosetown. The first minister called was Rev. A. W. Bergt, and he served the congregation for eight years. An old building was utilized until 1864, after which the courthouse and the Episcopal Church were used. Reverend Dulitz served St. Paul's Church for a dozen years, and Rev. A. F. Fisher for fourteen years. During the latter's pastorate a parochial school was established and a building erected for its use. Under the pastorate of Rev. Theodore A. Saupert a splendid new edifice was erected, which was dedicated in 1905. St. Paul's Church is in a healthy condition, with a large and growing congregation. The German Evangelical Lutheran Emanuel Church 472 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO was organized in 1883 by Rev. Louis Dammann. It has enjoyed a healthy growth, and is :one of the influential religious bodies of the city. The First Presbyterian Church was organized June 15, 1861, largely through the efforts of James A. Parker, who was elected its first elder. The congregation met for this purpose in the courthouse, where a sermon was preached by Rev. E. B. Ragensberger. A committee on organization, consisting of this minister and D. L. Anderson, was appointed. The society was immediately organized, and met at several places until a church home was erected. When nearly completed, this edifice was almost wholly destroyed by a severe storm, but the debris was immediately cleared away and a brick edifice begun on the same site The first pastor of the church was Rev. D. K. Richardson, who was chosen by the congregation in 1864, and served for four years. He was succeeded by Rev. Daniel Edgar, and then came Rev. J. P. Lloyd. In the year 1900 the present splendid edifice was com- pleted and dedicated to the worship of the Almighty. It has been pronounced one of the finest and most complete houses of worship in this section of the state. Services of the Methodist Episcopal Church were held in Napoleon as early as 1835, when Rev. Austin Coleman came to Napoleon and began to preach. He conducted services in the homes of the people, and in the tavern kept by Judge Craig. A union Sunday school was organized, which was attended by practically everyone who was religiously inclined. Napoleon was made the head of the circuit in 1854, and the Rev. Ambrose Hollington was appointed to the charge. The other appointments served by him were Florida, Hart-man's, and Texas, nearby villages. It was under the labors of Rev. G. W. Miller that the first Methodist Episcopal. Church was built in Napoleon. The presiding elder at that time Was E. C. Gabbit, and it was he who dedi cated the church in the spring of 1860. This was a frame building which stood on the corner of Washington and Webster streets. In 1868 Rev. N. B. C. Love was appointed, and Napoleon was made a station, with the undivided efforts of the pastor. Rev. S. L. Roberts served the congregation both as pastor and presiding elder for several years. A fine new brick church was dedicated in 1898, on the same lots that had been occupied by the old church. The sermon was preached by the late Bishop C. C. McCabe. Napoleon Lodge, No. 256, Free and Accepted Masons, was chartered in 1855, with only eight members. This number was barely sufficient to 'fill the necessary offices. G. R. McBane served as the first W. M., and Harvey Allen was chosen the first secretary. Since that time the lodge has had a long and prosperous history. Haley Chapter, No. 136, Royal Arch Masons, dates its history from 1871, when a charter was granted to a body of petitioners. Jonathan S. Norton filled the (Nee of eminent high priest, and Charles E. Reynolds was captain of the host. The Odd'. Fellows have an organization in the town, which is Napoleon Lodge, No. 260, and was. instituted in 1855, at Florida, but, ,after five years, it was removed to Napoleon. Maumee-Valley Encampment, No. 177, was organized in 1870 with seven charter members. Napoleon Lodge, No. 929, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, was organized under dispensation in 1904. James P. Ragan was the first exalted ruler. M. R. Waite Lodge, No. 284,. Knights of Pythias, dates back from 1888.. Choate Post, No. 66, Grand Army of the Republic, was named in honor of Col. William. A. Choate, at one time a distinguished member of the Henry County bar. It was organized in 1881. The first post commander was. L. G. Randall; senior vice commander, Otto Honeck ; junior vice commander, L. Y. Richards ; adjutant, C. E. Reynolds. This was formerly one of the most flourishing Grand HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO - 473 Army posts in Northwestern Ohio, but the organization of other posts in surrounding towns and villages drew from its membership. It may properly be termed the mother post of a half dozen nearby posts. The original First National Bank of Napoleon was incorporated in 1872. The initial officers were E. S. Blair, president, and A. D. Tourtillot, cashier. The charter was finally given up and the ownership passed through several hands. For a time it was known as J. C. Sauer & Co. Then came the Citizens Bank, a private concern, also, which finally became the Citizens State Bank in 1904, but has since gone out of business. The second institution to be called the First National Bank began business in September, 1897. The first officials were D. Meekison, president, and .J. S. Bailey, cashier. It immediately sprang into popularity, and soon acquired a fair share of the banking business of the community. There are two additional banks in Napoleon. The Napoleon State Bank was organized in 1908, and the Commercial State Bank began business in 1913. Both are prosperous institutions, and are doing a thriving business. Because of its almost unparalleled agricultural resources, Napoleon was for a long time dependent for its prosperity upon the products of the soil. With the exception of flour and lumber, little attention was paid to industries in the early days. The first flouring mill was established as early as 1850, by John Reiter, who operated his mill until his death in 1871. This original mill has passed through several hands and new and improved machinery installed on several occasions. John Powell and Hazael Strong constructed a sawmill near the river in 1843, and operated it with success for several years. Since then many manufacturing establishments have been added to the city's industrial life. The Heller-Aller Company is a large establishment which is known all over the country. It manufactures engines, pumps, tanks and other supplies for windmills. It has become a center for the manufacture of pulp plaster. One company manufactures the Morning Star engines and threshers. By the introduction of these various industries the commercial life of the town has been greatly increased, and a considerable degree of prosperity has fol lowed. OTHER VILLAGES The Village of Deshler was named in recog nition of John H. Deshler, who was a large land owner in the neighborhood. It was laid out and platted by Frederick H. Short for himself and as a trustee for a syndicate. The plat was recorded August 23, 1873, and consisted of 200 lots, with two public squares. Several additions have since been added. The village was incorporated in 1876, the year of the Centennial, and has become a live business center. There are several churches and societies and splendid schools. The Deshler Flag, a weekly journal, established in 1876 by J. M. Lockhart, is published in the village. Liberty Center is also a flourishing village in Henry County. It was the second village in the county to become incorporated. It was in 1863 that Alpheas Buchanan first conceived the idea of establishing a trading point where Liberty Center is now located. He recorded a small plat on the 4th of June, 1863, to which several additions have been made, by Calvin C. Young, E. T. Coon, G. P. Parish, Ward Woodward, Orle Buchanan, and Daniel Ehrgood. It has now become a flourishing village with several churches, many business houses, and some small manufacturers. The Liberty Press, a weekly newspaper, is published in the village. It was established in 1881 by Rev. J. L. Bushbridge. It is the home of four good church congregations, and prides itself on its graded schools, which are unusually efficient for a village of its size. 474 - HISTORY OF NORTHWEST OHIO McClure is situated in what is left of Damascus Township, which originally included the entire county. It was platted by John McClure in 1880. This original plat contained but twenty-eight lots, but several additions have been made. The village was incorporated in 1886. The first substantial building was erected in 1880 by Thomas W. Darbin for the purpose of carrying on a merchandising business. In the same year Andrew Johnson erected a commodious hotel. The McClure Trio was founded by J. A. Randolph. Florida is one of the oldest and possibly the oldest village in the county. Adam Stout, Lyman Back, and Jared McCarty were the first merchants in the place. In the palmy days of the canal, Florida did a flourishing business, but the railroads took away its prestige, for they went a few miles on either side. Napoleon, on one side, and Defiance on the other, then absorbed most of the business. It has a very pleasant location along the Maumee. Dr. John L. Watson and Dr. George W. Patterson were pioneer physicians who located here. The first postoffice was established in 1842, and Dr. George W. Patterson was appointed as postmaster. He was succeeded by Lyman Back. Holgate arose when the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad was constructed through the county. Andrew J. Weaver began business there in 1873, and platted the village the same year that the first trains were run. Newton S. Cole opened a store there with a large stock of goods in the following year. The Holgate Times is a weekly newspaper published here. It was established in 1881 by William Johnson. Texas is an old village that has greatly dwindled in importance. It was founded in 1849 by James Durbin. It was at one time an important trading post, and a formidable rival of Napoleon for the county seat. Hamler was named in honor of John Hamler. It was platted in 1875 by Hon. William D. Hill, of Defiance. It has become a flourishing village. Malinta, Colton, Ridgwell, Corners, Elery, Gratton, New Bavaria, Pleasant Bend, and Okalona are other small villages in the county.