1100 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO laize County, March 22, 1890, the daughter of James and Mattie (Mahan) Morris of Goshen Township. Mr. Morris died in 1902 and is buried in Walnut Hill Cemetery. His widow lives at St. Mary's. Mrs. Coffin attended Lima College, and later attended Ohio Northern University, where she specialized in the study of music. Before marriage, she was a teacher of piano. To Mr. and Mrs. Coffin have been born two children: 1. Mary Elizabeth, born November 26, 1910, a graduate of St. Mary's High School, and Miami University, Bachelor of Arts. She is now a deputy in the office of the probate judge, at Wapakoneta. 2. Robert Morris, born September 11, 1912, a graduate of St. Mary's High School, attends the University of New Mexico. Politically, Mr. Coffin has always been a Democrat. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is affiliated with St. Mary's Lodge F. & A. M. No. 121, St. Mary's Chapter R. A. M. No. 81, St. Mary's Council No. 51 R. & S. M., and Shawnee Commandery No. 30 K. T. He also is a member of St. Marian's Club. Clifford L. Wright.—As justice of the peace, Mr. Wright has a wide acquaintance at Wapakoneta, and he is also a veteran of the World War. He was born at Piqua, Miami County, Ohio, October 29, 1897, the son of Frank and Estella (Valentine) Wright. Frank Wright, deceased, was a native of Miami County. His widow later married Henry Gilmore, and resides in Washington Township. By her first marriage there were three children: 1. Clarence, who died in 1907. 2. Ethel, married William Varner, lives at Findlay, Ohio. Clifford L., the subject of this sketch. Another son, Millard Gilmore, is district manager of the Western Southern Life Insurance Company, at Defiance, Ohio. The boyhood of Clifford L. Wright was spent in Orange Township, Shelby County, and he attended the public schools. He spent some time in the employ of the Deisel-Wemmer-Gilbert HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1101 Cigar Company, at Wapakoneta, and later was connected with the Garford Motor Car Company, at Lima, until his enlistment for service in the World War, on June 4, 1917. Mr. Wright served as a private in Company B, 146th Infantry, 37th Division, and served in France, being seriously wounded on July 31, 1918. After partially recovering in French hospitals, he was returned to the United States and remained in Base Hospital No. 13, at Camp Lee, Virginia. He was subsequently discharged from the service on April 1, 1919, and at that time located at Troy, Ohio. He later attended Valparaiso University, where he took vocational train-ing, and since 1925 Mr. Wright has engaged in business at Wapa-koneta as proprietor of a shoe repair shop. Besides holding the office of justice of the peace he is notary public. On July 26, 1919, Mr. Wright was united in marriage with Miss Crystal McKercher, of Clay Township, Auglaize County, born October 8, 1901, the daughter of William and Laura (Line) McKercher. They reside at Lima. Mr. and Mrs. Wright's only child, Florence Vivian, is deceased. Mr. Wright is a Democrat, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is commander of Auglaize Post, No. 330, American Legion, "40 and 8" society, and Chamber of Commerce. Ferdinand L. Howell.—Among the progressive business men of Wapakoneta is Ferdinand L. Howell, who is identified with the Howell Coal & Building Supply Company. He was born in Pusheta Township, Auglaize County, February 21, 1884, the son of William J. and Emma (Parrish) Howell. William J. Howell was born in Washington Township, Auglaize County, the son of Simeon J. and Mary (Renshaw) Howell. As a young man William J. Howell engaged in general farming in Washington Township. He then became interested in the contracting business as a builder. He was elected county commissioner in 1908, and in that year also became a manufacturer of 1102 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO cement blocks as founder of the Wapakoneta Cement Block Com-pany. He also handled coal and building supplies. Mr. Howell was a Democrat, a member of St. Marks Lutheran Evangelical Church, and belonged to the Elks Lodge. He died August 26, 1926, and is buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapakoneta. His wife was born in Washington Township, and died April 15, 1921. She was the daughter of James E. and Elizabeth (Wisely) Parrish, both natives of Auglaize County. To William J. and Emma (Parrish) Howell were born four children: 1. Ferdinand L., the subject of this sketch. 2. Bessie Edna, married Richard Tucker, lives at Akron, Ohio. 3. Mabel Cora, married Ross Woodruff, lives at Cleveland. 4. Ruth, married Raymond Headapohl, lives at Detroit, Michigan. Ferdinand L. Howell grew up on a farm in Washington Township and acquired his education in the public schools. He spent seven years as a clerk in the dry goods store of Timmermeister & Rogers, and then was employed for two years by the Wapakoneta Packing Company. He also was identified with his father's business and upon the latter's death it was reorganized as the Howell Coal & Builders Supply Company, with Mr. Howell as manager. On June 6, 1905, Mr. Howell married Miss Dora Barbara Koh, who was born in Shelby County, November 28, 1883, the daughter of Christian and Barbara (Fisher) Koh, natives of Germany and Ohio respectively. Mr. Koh died in 1927 and his wife died in 1898. They are buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapakoneta. To Mr. and Mrs. Howell were born five children: 1. Catherine Elizabeth, born June 17, 1906, married Norvell Critton, of Wapakoneta, and they have a son, Thomas John. 2. Evelyn Barbara, born June 23, 1907, married Paul Bush, of Wapakoneta. 3. William F., born February 19, 1911, died in 1917. 4. Donald, born July 5, 1920. 5. Ferdinand, Jr., born August 25, 1921. Mr. Howell is a Democrat, and belongs to the B. P. O. Elks and Eagle Lodges, Loyal Order of Moose, and Chamber of Com- HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1103 merce. He and his family are members of St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Edward Anthony Pfenning.—One of the dependable business men of Wapakoneta is Edward Anthony Pfenning, who is the proprietor of a dry cleaning establishment at 4 Perry Street. He was born in this city, November 19, 1869, the son of Sebastian and Mary (Heil) Pfenning. Sebastian Pfenning was a native of Germany and his wife was born at Lexington, Kentucky. He was two years of age when his parents emigrated to this country and settled on a farm in Shelby County near Botkins. At the age of 24 years he went to the gold fields in California and in later life was identified with the Wapakoneta Wheel & Spoke Company for fifteen years. Mr. Pfenning was a Democrat and held membership in St. Joseph's Catholic Church. He died in 1885 and his wife died in 1916. They are buried in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Wapakoneta. To Mr. and Mrs. Pfenning were born the following children: 1. Edward Anthony, the subject of this sketch. 2. Joseph X., who died in 1927. 3. Anna M., married Frank Laut, lives at New Bremen. 4. Charles W., lives at Wapakoneta. 5. George B., lives at Wapakoneta. 6. Vincent S., jeweler, lives at St. Mary's. 7. Lulu, unmarried, lives at Wapakoneta. Edward A. Pfenning acquired his education in the parochial schools of Wapakoneta. His first position was with the Wapakoneta Bending Company, and he later was employed for seven years as a salesman in the department store of Timmermeister & Rogers. He then learned the trade of tailor in the shop of the Zofkie Tailoring Company, with whom he was associated for four years. Mr. Pfenning was then appointed deputy county treasurer and served during the terms of George Vanoss, and H. W. Brinkmeyer. He has been interested in the dry cleaning business since 1916 and has been in his present location for ten years. 1104 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO On May 11, 1921, Mr. Pfenning was united in marriage with Miss Philippine Nester, born at Wapakoneta, January 4, 1897, the daughter of Adolph and Catherine (Foltz) Nester. Mr. Nester and his wife were born at Wapakoneta. He was a Democrat and held membership in St. Joseph's Catholic Church. He died in 1919 and his widow resides with Mr. and Mrs. Pfenning. Her father was Jacob Foltz, who came to this country from Germany during the early history of Auglaize County. He died November 1, 1911, and is buried in St. Joseph Cemetery, Wapakoneta. Mr, and Mrs. Pfenning have no children. Mr. Pfenning is a Democrat, a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, and belongs to the Eagle and Elk Lodges, Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis Club, and Chamber of Commerce. Mrs, Pfenning is a member of the Daughters of Isabel at Lima, Ohio. Hon. Ortha O. Barr.—As a member of the House of Representatives from Allen County, Mr. Barr is recognized as one of the most prominent and influential citizens of Lima, where he is owner and manager of the Barr Hotel. He was born near Tremont City, Ohio, February 24, 1879, the son of Eugene J. and Sarah C. (Michael) Barr. Eugene J. Barr, who died in 1922, was a native of Ohio. He was born in Auglaize County and spent his early life in that section. After his graduation from Lebanon College he entered Cincinnati Medical College, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine. He then came to Allen County in 1885 and was established in private practice first at Allentown and later at Hume. He subsequently located at Lima, where he engaged in the real estate business. He was elected sheriff of Allen County in 1901 and served a four-year term in that office, after which he again conducted a real estate and brokerage business in the city of Lima. He died there in 1922. Mr. Barr was a Democrat, and belonged to the Knights of Pythias, B. P. O. Elks, and Macca- HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1105 bees. His wife was born in Clark County, Ohio, and died in 1882. She is buried at Tremont City, Ohio. Their only child was Ortha O., the subject of this sketch. The boyhood of Ortha O. Barr was spent in Ohio and he received his education in the public schools. He entered Lima College and later enrolled at the University of Michigan, from which he received the degree of LL. B. in 1904. He then practiced law for 15 years in the city of Lima, and during that period also served as prosecuting attorney of Allen County. He held the latter office for one term. Since 1919 Mr. Barr has owned and managed the Barr Hotel, at Lima. He was elected as a member of the House of Representatives from Allen County in 1930 and is now serving his second term. On September 4, 1907, Mr. Barr was united in marriage with Miss Bertha Woerner, of Lima, the daughter of Max and Catherine (Amelong) Woerner, natives of Germany. The former is deceased and the latter resides at Dallas, Texas. To Mr. and Mrs. Barr have been born five children, as follows: 1. Catherine E., born August 2, 1908, died in 1911. 2. Robert O., born March 28, 1910, a graduate of the University of Michigan, electrical engineer, lives at home. He is a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. 3. Margaret A., born September 27, 1912, attended the University of Michigan for one year, now a junior at Smith College. 4. Edna E., born January 3, 1915, a graduate of Lima High School, class of 1933. 5. Ortha O., Jr., born March 4, 1922. Mrs. Barr was born at Burlington, Iowa, and came to Lima with her parents in 1882. She is a graduate of Lima High School and St. Vincent's Hospital, at Toledo, Ohio. She also attended Lima Business College. Mr. Barr has always been a Democrat. He is past chancellor of Lima Lodge No. 91, Knights of Pythias, and was grand chan-cellor for the State of Ohio during 1931-1932. He is also a mem-ber of Lima Lodge, F. and A. M.; Lima Chapter, R. A. M.; Lima Council, R. and S. M.; Shawnee Commandery, No. 14, K. T., and the Toledo Consistory, 32nd degree, A. A. S. R. 1106 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Christian John Hemmert is recognized as one of the substan-tial business men of Wapakoneta, where he conducts a wholesale candy business, with headquarters at 510 Vine Street. He was born in Pusheta Township, Auglaize County, April 15, 1880, the son of Aquiline and Elizabeth (Seller) Hemmert. Aquiline Hemmert died at Botkins, Ohio, in 1906, and his wife died there in 1903. Both were natives of that place and spent their entire lives in Auglaize County. Mr. Hemmert was a farmer and owned a well improved farm in Pusheta Township. He was a Democrat and held membership in the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, at Botkins. To Mr. and Mrs. Hemmert were born nine children: 1. Joseph A., lives at Wapakoneta. 2. Casper, farmer, lives in Pusheta Township. 3. Catherine, mar-ried Gus Schneider, lives at Wapakoneta. 4. Christian J., the subject of this sketch. 5. Elizabeth, unmarried, lives at Wapa-koneta. 6. Anthony, a teacher of philosophy at the military academy in Porto Rico. 7. Frank, farmer, lives in Duchouquet Township. 8. Ferdinand, lives at Gibsonburg, Ohio. 9. Andrew, lives at Sidney. Christian J. Hemmert is a graduate of the district schools of Pusheta Township, and was interested in general farming until 1901. He then located at Dayton, where he spent ten years as a shipping clerk in the employ of the Cappell Furniture Company. He then conducted a candy business in that city for one year and in 1912 located at Wapakoneta, where he has established an extensive business as a wholesale dealer. His present offices and warehouse were erected in 1926. On June 22, 1904, Mr. Hemmert was united in marriage with Miss Mary T. Aufderheide, who was born at Dayton, February 24, 1881, the daughter of John and Mary (Owel) Aufderheide, natives of Germany, and Dayton, Ohio, respectively. Mr. Aufderheide died in 1898 and his wife died in 1919. They are buried in Calvary Cemetery, Dayton. To Mr. and Mrs. Hemmert were born three children : 1. Helen J., born April 28, 1905, a linotype operator HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1107 employed on the Wapakoneta Daily News. 2. Florence J., born November 14, 1907, married William Walter, of Wapakoneta, and they have a son, William Carl. 3. Carl Marion, born March 26, 1909, lives at home. Mr. Hemmert has always been a Democrat and has been a member of the city council since 1929. In 1933 he was a candidate for mayor of the city of Wapakoneta. He and his family are members of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, and he belongs to the B. P. O. Elks, Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, Auglaize County Fish & Game Detective Association, and League of Ohio Sportsmen. Thomas William Danaher is among the capable young lawyers of Auglaize County, successfully engaged in practice at St. Mary's. He was born in this city, July 14, 1901, the son of James and Anna L. (Delancy) Danaher. James Danaher, deceased, was a native of St. Mary's. He was educated in the parochial schools and as a young man was employed in the oil fields of Auglaize County. He then held a contract with the government for conveying mails in the county before the induction of the Western Ohio Railway Company, and at the time of his death in 1905 he was a well known dealer in horses. He was a Democrat, a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, and a substantial citizen of the community. His widow was born at Spencerville, Ohio, and resides at St. Mary's. They were the parents of two sons : 1. Thomas William, the subject of this sketch. 2. James B., attorney, lives at Akron, Ohio. Following his graduation from St. Mary's High School in 1920, Thomas William Danaher spent three years at the University of Pennsylvania. He was graduated from Georgetown University, at Washington, D. C., in 1929, and admitted to the bar in August, 1930. He practiced in the federal courts in Washington for one year and in March, 1931, established his present practice 1108 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO at St. Mary's. He ranks as the leading patent attorney in this section of the State. Politically, Mr. Danaher is a Republican. He holds member-ship in Holy Rosary Catholic Church, and is affiliated with the Eagles Lodge, and Eta Gamma fraternity. He also is a member of the Auglaize County, Ohio State, and American Bar Associa-tions. In 1930 Mr. Danaher took a trip around the world for the interests of the United States Steel Corporation. Ernest M. Veenfliet.—Widely known in business circles in Auglaize County is Ernest M. Veenfliet, who is treasurer of St. Mary's Woolen Manufacturing Company. He was born in Saginaw County, Michigan, August 17, 1855, the son of George F. and Caroline (Kramer) Veenfliet. George F. Veenfliet was born in Wessel Province, Germany, in 1813. He was a graduate of Bonn University, and spent two years at that institution as an assistant professor. In 1848 he came to the United States and settled in Saginaw County, Michigan, where he became a prosperous farmer. He was a Republican and was a delegate to the national convention which nominated Abraham Lincoln for president. He also served as a member of the Michigan State legislature for several terms, was immigra-tion commissioner of Michigan, and treasurer of Saginaw County. Mr. Veenfliet died in 1896 and is buried at Bloomfield, Michigan. He held membership in the German Evangelical Lutheran Church, and belonged to the Masonic Lodge. His wife was a native of Germany and died in 1902. They were the parents of the following children: 1. Frederick, who was killed in service during the Civil War while serving as a captain of the 29th Michigan Volunteer Infantry. He lost his life at the battle of Nashville. 2. Richard, who died in 1926, was a Civil War veteran. 3. Augusta, died in 1929, was the wife of August Vasold. 4. Caroline, who died in 1913, was the wife of William Jasperson. 5. HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1109 Julia, who died in 1908, was the wife of Henry Todd. 6. William, who died in 1908. 7. Alma, unmarried, lives at Saginaw, Michi-gan. 8. Ernest M., the subject of this sketch. Ernest M. Veenffiet is a graduate of the public schools of Saginaw and in 1876 received a degree as civil engineer at Union College, Schenectady, New York. During the following ten years he was employed as a civil engineer by the Wabash Railroad Company in Michigan. He has been identified with the interest of St. Mary's Woolen Manufacturing Company, at St. Mary's, since 1886, and has held the office of secretary and treasurer. He is also vice president of the St. Mary's Home Banking Company. On March 11, 1880, Mr. Veenfliet was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Althausen, born at St. Mary's, July 31, 1860, the daughter of Albert and Louisa (Herzing) Althausen. Mr. Althausen was born in Germany and died in 1912. His wife, a native of St. Mary's, died in 1916. To Mr. and Mrs. Veenflliet were born three children: 1. Lulu born May 24 1881, unmarried, lives at home. 2. Albert F., who died in 1909. 3. Irma, married Arthur Sayre Brodhead, lives at Denver, Colorado. They have two daughters, Elizabeth and Louisa. Mr. Veenfliet is a Republican. He is a member of Mercer Lodge No. 121, F. & A. M.; St. Mary's Chapter, R. A. M.; St. Mary's Council, R. & S. M.; Dayton Consistory 32nd degree, A. A. S. R.; and Antioch Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. Robert Echo Boswell, M. D., of St. Mary's, is one of the best known young physicians and surgeons of Auglaize County. He was born at Dayton, Ohio, March 15, 1907, the son of Joseph J. and Mary Florence (Ashenfelter) Boswell. Joseph J. Boswell is a native of Hamilton, Ohio, and has spent practically his entire life in Dayton. He was identified with King & Company, meat packers, and the Charles Sucher Company of Dayton, until 1913, and has since been superintendent of the   1110 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Aetna Paper Company in that city. He is a Republican, a mem-ber of the Second Lutheran Church, and belongs to the Moden Woodmen of America. His wife is a native of Harrisburg, Penn-sylvania. She holds membership in the United Brethren Church. Their only child is Robert Echo, the subject of this sketch. John J. Boswell and Henry Ashenfelter, paternal and maternal grandfathers of Robert E. Boswell, were Civil War soldiers. Robert E. Boswell acquired his early education in the public schools of Indianapolis, Urbana, and Dayton. Following his graduation from Steele High School, Dayton, in 1925, he took up the study of medicine at Ohio State University. After three years at that institution he entered George Washington University, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1932. He served as interne in the Frederick City Hospital at Frederick, Maryland, for six months, and was attached to Miami Valley Hospital staff at Dayton, for one year. Since July, 1933, Dr. Boswell has maintained a private practice at St. Mary's, and has offices at 316 West High Street. He is an active member of the Auglaize County Medical Society, Ohio State and American Medical Associations. Dr. Boswell was married June 2, 1932, to Miss Mildred A. Feagans, of Front Royal, Virginia, born February 4, 1909, the daughter of Isaac and Daisy (McIntyre) Feagans. Mr. Feagans, a native of Virginia, resides at Woodstock, Virginia. His wife died in 1912. Mrs. Boswell attended George Washington University and is a graduate of George Washington University Hospital, class of 1930. She spent two years as assistant superintendent of the Episcopal Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital at Washington, District of Columbia. She holds membership in the George Washington Alumni Club. Dr. Boswell is a member of the United Brethren Church, and belongs to Delta Chi and Phi Chi fraternities. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church. HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1111 Charles P. McKee.—A member of the medical profession distinguished by more than 30 years of service, Dr. McKee is widely known throughout Auglaize County, and is one of the representative citizens of St. Mary's. He was born there, June 20, 1880, the son of Charles P. and Matilda Jane (Smith) McKee. Charles P. McKee, who died in 1921, was a member of a prominent pioneer family of Auglaize County. He was born at Athens, Ohio, the son of Thomas McKee, who came to Ohio from McKeesport, Pennsylvania, and settled in St. Mary's Township in 1833. The original McKee homestead is still owned by members of the family and contains 230 acres. The son, Charles P. McKee, became a prosperous farmer and spent his life on the McKee homestead. His wife was born in German Township, Auglaize County, and died in 1927. They are buried in Elm Grove Cemetery, St. Mary's. Mr. McKee was a Democrat and held membership in the Presbyterian Church. There were six children in the McKee family : 1. William O., who died in 1916. 2. Edwin C., farmer, lives in St. Mary's Township. 3. Ada, who died in 1874. 4. Dr. Charles P., the subject of this sketch. 5. Elza F., attorney, lives at Springfield. 6. Jennie R., unmarried, lives at St. Mary's. Charles P. McKee acquired his early education in the schools of St. Mary's Township, and in 1898 was graduated from St. Mary's High School. He spent the following three years as a clerk in the Barrington Drug Store at St. Mary's, after which he took up the study of medicine at Starling Medical College, now the College of Medicine, Ohio State University. He received his degree in 1905 and immediately established his present practice in this city. During the World War he was identified with the Medical Corps, U. S. Army, and served as a medical examiner at Wapakoneta. On September 3, 1913, Dr. McKee was united in marriage with Miss Pearl Losher, born at Wapakoneta, April 11, 1883, the daughter of William C. and Louise (Knatz) Losher. They are natives of Shelby and Auglaize counties respectively, and reside 1112 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO at St. Mary's. Doctor and Mrs. McKee have a son, Charles P., Jr., born December 6, 1914. He is a graduate of St. Mary's High School and attends Wittenberg College at Springfield. Dr. McKee was a member of the Board of Education during 1923-33, and resigned as vice president. He also was city health commissioner in 1927. He is past president of the Auglaize County Medical Society and a member of the Ohio State and American Medical Associations. Dr. McKee is a Democrat, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and belongs to Phi Beta Phi fraternity and St. Maryians' Club. Harry H. Nussmeyer is an active, enterprising and well known citizen of Auglaize County and is vice president and general manager of the Rabe Manufacturing Company, at New Bremen. He is also mayor of that city. He was born there January 22, 1890, the son of August and Maria (Page1s) Nussmeyer. August Nussmeyer, who died in 1915, was a native of German Township, Auglaize County. His wife was a native of St. Mary's Township, and now resides at New Bremen. As a young man Mr. Nussmeyer was interested in general farming with his father, but later engaged in the building and contracting busi-ness at New Bremen. He was a Democrat and served as council-man and school director. He held membership in St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, of which his wife is a member. There were four children in the Nussmeyer family: 1. Bertha, deceased. 2. Louise, who died in 1904, was the wife of Gustave Blase. 3. Emil, who died in 1930. 4. Harry H., the subject of this sketch. The boyhood of Harry H. Nussmeyer was spent at New Bremen, where he received his early education in the public schools. He received the degree of Bachelor of Architecture at Ohio State University in 1912 and is a registered architect in HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1113 Ohio. During the following two years he was identified with the American Bridge Company at Ambridge, Pennsylvania, as a draftsman in structural design work. He returned to New Bremen in 1915 as a draftsman in the employ of the Rabe Manufacturing Company, and two years later, being attached to the U. S. Air Service at McCook Field, Dayton, was engaged in experimental airplane designing. He subsequently became assistant engineer for the firm of Schenck & Williams, architects, at Dayton, and in 1920 again entered the employ of the Rabe Manufacturing Company as general manager. He is also interested in the Kuenzel Mills Company, Streine Manufacturing Company, and Auglaize Furniture Company. On July 14, 1914, Mr. Nussmeyer married Miss Hilda Klanke, who was born at New Bremen, September 20, 1890, the daughter of William and Adelia (Purpus) Klanke, of German Township. They reside at New Bremen. Mr. and Mrs. Nussmeyer have a daughter, Phyllis Charlotte, born June 13, 1915. She attends Ohio State University. Mr. Nussmeyer has always been a Democrat. He was elected to the office of mayor in November, 1931, and reelected in 1933. He has also been president of the local board of education and has served as a member of the city council. He was chairman of the New Bremen Centennial Committee in 1933. Mr. Nussmeyer and his family are members of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, and he is affiliated with Mercer Lodge, F. and A. M. No. 121, St. Mary's Chapter, R. A. M. No. 51, St. Mary's Council, No. 81, and Shawnee Commandery, K. T. 14. Anthony W. Frierott is a prosperous and successful business man of Auglaize County, being identified with the Star Beverage Company, of Minster, as president and general manager. He was born here, November 19, 1885, the son of Bernard and Anna (Knapke) Frierott. 1114 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Bernard Frierott, who died in 1903, was a native of Minster. His wife was born there also, and died in February, 1932. They are buried in St. Augustine's Cemetery, Minster. Mr. Frierott was educated in the district schools and engaged in general farming with his father in Jackson Township until 1890. He then became identified with the Star Brewing Company, in partnership with Peter Mittler, Math Goeke, A. W. Gerwels, and Frank Herkenhoff. He was identified with that enterprise until his death in 1903. Mr. Frierott was a Democrat and served as town clerk. He and his wife held membership in St. Augustine's Catholic Church. Their children were: 1. Mary, married Charles Barnhorst, lives at Minster. 2. John, who died in infancy. 3. Anthony W., the subject of this sketch. 4. Henry, connected with the Star Beverage Company at Minster. 5. Frances, married Julius Sommers, lives in Jackson Township. 6. Frank, farmer, lives in Jackson Township. 7. Nora, unmarried. 8. Alvina, unmarried. Both live at Minster. 9. Josephine, married Herman Laut, lives at Minster. 10. Bernard H., identified with the Star Beverage Company. The boyhood of Anthony W. Frierott was spent at Minster and he attended the public schools. He is also a graduate of Lima Business College. He spent three years as a farmer in Jackson Township before entering the employ of the Star Beverage Company. His entire business career has been identified with that concern and he has been president and general manager since 1929. The business was incorporated in 1919. In November, 1913, Mr. Frierott married Miss Caroline Barn-horst, of Minster, the daughter of Benjamin and Josephine (Sprehe) Barnhorst. Both are natives of Minster, where Mr. Barnhorst still resides. His wife died in 1893. To Mr. and Mrs. Frierott were born two sons : 1. Harold Bernard, born August 20, 1914, identified with the Star Beverage Company. 2. Richard Paul, born March 20, 1922. Mr. Frierott is a Democrat and he and his family are members of St. Augustine's Catholic Church. HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1115 The Star Beverage Company, of Minster, was organized July 1, 1903, as The Star Brewing Company. Its original officers were: Math Goeke, president; Frank Herkenhoff, vice president; Charles Herkenhoff, secretary, treasurer and manager; A. W. Gerwels and George VanOss, directors. The manufacture of beer in Minster dates back to the early days. In 1869 there were two breweries there, one operated by George Luckman, and another by B. H. Nienberg. In that year Lang & Sons built a brewery in the southwest part of the city, and in 1870 the local people had the first taste of lager beer brewed in Minster. In 1875 Peter Mittler became associated with this institution as brewmaster, and held that position until 1898. Steinemann Brothers purchased the business in the spring of 1883, and operated the brewery until it was destroyed by fire in June, 1888. Two years later a new building was erected and in that year the ownership passed to Peter Mittler, Math Goeke, A. W. Gerwels, Bernard Frierott, and Frank Herkenhoff. Extensive improvements were made in 1890 and again in 1895, and in 1901 a large refrigeration system and automatic bottling machine were installed. Mr. Mittler sold his interest to J. B. Meyer in 1889 and Joseph Brinkman was his successor as brewmaster. After the death of Bernard Frierott in 1903 the business was reorganized as the Star Brewing Company. In 1907 George VanOss was succeeded by A. W. Frierott as director. Upon the adoption of the Eighteenth Amendment, the company name was changed to the Star Beverage Company, and they became extensive manufacturers of soft drinks. Upon the legislation of beer in April, 1933, the company began the manufacture of beer with an alcoholic content of 3.2. Known as "Wooden Shoe," this beer has a wide distribution and sale throughout West Central Ohio. The brewery employs fifty-eight men and has a daily output of 200 barrels. In every detail the brewery ranks among the finest and most modern in the United States. 1116 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Present officers are: A. W. Frierott, president and manager; Henry Frierott, vice president; Frank L. Herkenhoff, Elmer Gerwels, and J. W. Eiting, directors. Joseph Brinkman is active brewmaster. Paul C. Bratten, M. D., of New Bremen, is recognized as one of the highly successful physicians and surgeons of Auglaize County. He was born at Lebanon, Ohio, March 5, 1901, the son of Clifton E. and Cora E. (Mace) Bratten. Clifton E. Bratten is a prominent business man of Dayton, where he is identified with the Equitable Life Insurance Company of New York as a special agent. He and his wife were born at Bethel, where he received his early education. He is a graduate of Lebanon Normal School, and for 20 years was a teacher in the public schools of Warren County, also serving as superintendent of Waynesville and Kings Mill. He then came to Dayton, where he began his business career with the National Cash Register Company. He has been interested in the insurance business in that city since 1915. Mr. Bratten is a Republican, a member of Grace Methodist Episcopal Church and belongs to the Masonic Lodge, and Dayton Underwriters Club. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Bratten: 1. Philip M., who is district man-ager of the Frigidaire Corporation at Fort Worth, Texas. 2. Mary Louise, who is secretary in the offices of the Y. M. C. A. at Dayton. 3. Robert Clarke, farmer, lives near London, Ohio. 4. Paul C., the subject of this sketch. 5. Willard P., who is associated in business with his father in Dayton. 6. Mildred Catherine, married Rex Miller, lives at Dayton. 7. Eleanor Winifred, married Dr. Gerald Grout, lives at Dayton. 8. Elizabeth Belle, who is technician at Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton. At the age of twelve years Paul C. Bratten came to Dayton with his parents, and he received his early education in that city. Following his graduation from high school in 1920, he was HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1117 employed on the farm of Henry Price near Eaton, Ohio, after which he was identified with the National Cash Register Company at Dayton. He then resumed his education at Antioch College, spent two years at the University of Dayton, and then taught for one year in the high school at Farmersville, Ohio. He received the degree of Doctor of Medicine at Ohio State Univer-sity in 1931, and after a year as interne in Miami Valley Hospital, Dr. Bratten established a private practice at New Bremen, in August, 1932. Dr. Bratten was married January 1, 1928, to Miss Mary Elizabeth Haney, born at Little Rock, Arkansas, November 4, 1905, the daughter of John and Elizabeth Haney, the former a native of Arkansas, and the latter of Kentucky. They reside in Cincinnati. Mrs. Bratten is a graduate of a private school for girls at Memphis, Tenn. Doctor and Mrs. Bratten have a son, Douglas Philip, born May 18, 1931. Politically Dr. Bratten is independent. He is a member of the Auglaize County Medical Society, Ohio State, and American Medical Associations, and belongs to Alpha Kappa Kappa Medi-cal fraternity. Francis W. Durbin.—High achievement marks the career of Francis W. Durbin, attorney, who has engaged in the practice of his profession in the city of Lima during the past 20 years. He was born at Kenton, Ohio, December 8, 1891, the son of William Warner and Mary L. (Danaher) Durbin. William Warner Durbin is a representative citizen of Kenton, Ohio, where he was born in 1866. His wife is a native of Wash-ington, D. C. Mr. Durbin was graduated from the public schools of Kenton and received the degree of LL. B. at the National Law College, at Washington, D. C. In 1886 he served as a clerk in the offices of the U. S. Treasury Department. After his admission to 1118 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO the Ohio State Bar, Mr. Durbin formed a partnership with Judge Crowe, of Kenton, under the firm name of Crowe & Durbin, and this association continued until 1902, at which time Mr. Durbin became interested in business as founder of the Scioto Sign Company. He is now treasurer and general manager of that con-cern. Since July, 1933, he has been register of the Treasury, being appointed to that office of President F. D. Roosevelt. He has always been a Democrat in politics, and in 1896 was chairman of the Ohio State Democratic Executive Committee, being the youngest man to ever hold that position in the State of Ohio. In 1900 he was a delegate to the National Democratic Convention, at Kansas City, Missouri. He again was a delegate in 1912, 1920, 1924, 1928, and 1932. He received his second appointment in 1920 as chairman of the Ohio State Democratic Executive Com-mittee, and has held that office longer than any other man. He was a member during 1909-12 of the Board of Managers of the Ohio State Penitentiary. He also is past president of the Kenton Board of Education. As a hobby, Mr. Durbin has been interested in magic throughout his life. He has been president since 1926 of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, and is editor of the "Linking Ring," a magazine devoted to magic. He also owns a private theater in the city of Kenton, where he has presented numerous acts, and he is considered the owner of the greatest collection of paraphenalia used exclusively by magicians in the world. Mr. Durbin is a member of Saint John's Evangelical Church, and is affiliated with B. P. O. Elks, Exalted Ruler for ten years. His wife is a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Their children are : 1. Francis W., the subject of this sketch. 2. Andrew, attended Dayton University and Notre Dame University, now lives at Washington, D. C. Francis W. Durbin acquired his early education at Saint Anthony's Institute, from which he was graduated in 1909. He then received the degree of LL. B. at Notre Dame University in 1913, HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1119 and following his admission to the bar during the same year he established a private practice at Lima. During 1914-32 he was associated with D. C. Henderson as a member of the firm of Henderson & Durbin, and since the latter year Mr. Durbin has practiced alone. He has offices in the Dominion Building. He is a member of the executive committee of the Allen County Bar Association, and belongs to the Ohio State Bar Association. In 1916 Mr. Durbin was united in marriage with Miss Agnes Kelly, the daughter of Timothy and Nora (Keating) Kelly, natives of Ireland and Rochester, New York, respectively. Mr. Kelly was a Civil War veteran and died in 1892. His wife died in 1918. Both are buried at Marion, Ohio. They were lifelong friends of former President Warren G. Harding. To Mr. and Mrs. Durbin have been born two daughters: 1. Margaret, born in 1923. 2. Diane, born in 1928. Politically, Mr. Durbin is a Democrat. He was for three years a member of the Civil Service Commission, at Lima, and trustee of the Policemen's Pension Fund, at Lima, for three years. He also has served as vice chairman of the Democratic Executive Committee of Allen County. He is affiliated with F. O. Eagles, Lima Aerie No. 370, past president; and past president (1932-33) Ohio State F. O. Eagles. He also belongs to Loyalty Council No. 2661, Knights of Columbus, 4th degree. Mr. Durbin is vice president of the Scioto Sign Company, at Kenton, Ohio. Robert J. Kuhn.—Among the prominent young attorneys of Allen County may be mentioned Robert J. Kuhn, who is established in private practice in the City of Lima, with offices in the Dominion Building. He was born here, August 31, 1908, the son of Joseph and Grace (Jackman) Kuhn. Joseph Kuhn is a representative citizen of Lima, where he has spent many years as a custom tailor. He was born in Austria 1120 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO and at the age of 18 years emigrated to this country and located at Lima, where he was associated with a Mr. House as a member of the firm of House & Kuhn. The partnership continued for a number of years, but at the present time Mr. Kuhn conducts his own tailoring business here. He married Miss Grace Jackman, a native of Lima, and their children are: 1. Robert J., the subject of this sketch. 2. Margaret. 3. Hildreth. 4. Rose Mary. All live at home. Robert J. Kuhn obtained his early schooling at Lima and in 1926 was graduated from Central High School. He then entered Notre Dame University, at South Bend, Indiana, and received the degree of LL. B. at that institution in 1931. Following his ad-mission to the bar in February, 1932, Mr. Kuhn returned to Lima, where he has since been associated with Francis W. Durbin. Mr. Kuhn is a Democrat, a member of St. Rose's Catholic Church, and belongs to the Allen County Bar Association and Young Democratic Club. Harry a McLeod.—Ranking high among the representative and highly successful business men of West Central Ohio is Harry S. McLeod, who is president, treasurer and general manager of The Delphos Bending Company, Delphos, Ohio. He was born at Lawrence, Kansas, the son of Benjamin S. and Marry L. (Baker) McLeod. Benjamin S. McLeod was a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried at Morrow, Ohio. As a young man he engaged in the railroad business, his first employment and for several years thereafter being with what was then known as the Little Miami Railroad, now the Cincinnati Division of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Later on he moved to Frankfort; Indiana, where he made a connection with what was at that time known as the Toledo, Cincinnati & St. Louis Railroad, but which HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1121 is now known as the Clover Leaf District of the Nickel Plate Railroad, becoming general superintendent of that road during his connection with it. To Mr. and Mrs. McLeod were born three sons: 1. Harry S., the subject of this sketch. 2. Bradford L., living at Frankfort, Indiana. 3. Fred, deceased, buried at Port Huron, Michigan. The boyhood of Harry S. McLeod was mostly spent at Frankfort, Indiana, where he received his education in the public schools. After leaving the Frankfort High School he took employment with the Toledo, St. Louis & Western Railroad at that point and, during the course of several years, by reason of suc-cessful promotions, he finally became general southwestern traffic agent of that road at Dallas, Texas, this road now being known as the Clover Leaf District of the Nickel Plate Railroad. In 1904 he decided to leave the railroad service and engaged in the manufacture of slack barrel staves, heading and hoops, his company being known as the Ozark Cooperage and Lumber Company, headquarters St. Louis, Missouri, with mills scattered throughout Missouri, Arkansas and Mississippi, his official capacity being vice president and treasurer of that organization, which during its existence was the largest manufacturer and wholesaler in the United States in its particular line. This connection continued until 1914, when conditions in this particular industry caused him to sever his connection with the cooperage business, after which he became connected with The Delphos Bending Company, Delphos, Ohio, of which he later became the sole owner, with official position as president, treasurer and general manager. The Delphos Bending Company is a widely known concern in its line, engaged in the manufacture of general bent wood products such as automobile top bows, automobile body parts, automobile win-dow and door moulding, bent wood chair parts, toys and play-ground equipment. Prior to the day of the closed car the business of this company in the manufacture of automobile top bows was of very large volume. 1122 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Mr. McLeod is also vice president of The Oko Oil and Gas Company, Lima, Ohio, director of The Commercial Bank, Delphos, Ohio, and has been connected with a number of other concerns in this particular section of Ohio, from most of which he has with-drawn his active connection. Mr. McLeod married Miss Ida B. North of Bluffton, Indiana, who is the daughter of Jacob and Lavina (French) North, natives of Indiana, both now deceased and buried at Bluffton, Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. McLeod have no children. Mr. McLeod is an independent Republican. He is affiliated with Bluffton Lodge No. 145, F. and A. M., Bluffton, Indiana, and is a member of Lima Lodge No. 54, B. P. O. Elks, Lima, Ohio, in addition to holding membership in the Shawnee Country Club, Lima, Ohio ; Willow Bend Country Club, Van Wert, Ohio, and Columbus Country Club, Columbus, Ohio. He is actively connected with The Ohio Manufacturers' Association, being a member of the board of trustees of that organization, in addition to also being a member of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. He is also actively interested in the affairs of his community, including charitable and benevolent organizations. Hon. Azariah D. Miller.—One of Allen County's most outstanding citizens was Azariah D. Miller, educator, attorney, and probate judge. He was born on the Miller homestead in Amanda Township, Allen County, June 15, 1853, and died at Lima, March 27, 1923. He was the son of Joseph and Minerva J. (Shock) Miller. Azariah D. Miller was practically self-educated. He left school at the age of sixteen years but later attended Lebanon Normal School in Warren County. He served as a teacher in the district schools of this section for eighteen years, and during that time became widely and favorably known. During 1871-72 he was employed as bookkeeper in the freight and express office of the HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1123 Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad at Elida, and at the same time also was a clerk in the mercantile establishment of Rice & Leist. He studied law at home and in 1877 was elected assessor of Amanda Township on the Democratic ticket. In the following year he was chosen justice of the peace, an office which he satisfactorily held for five years. He was admitted to the bar in 1885, and at that time became a member of the firm of Remington & Miller. His law library was destroyed by fire in 1887 and he retired from that profession to engage in the contracting business. However, in February, 1894, he was called upon to accept the duties of clerk of the Probate Court and in 1899 was elected to the office of probate judge of Allen County. In 1876 Judge Miller married Miss Darthula Place, the daughter of James and Susan Place. They had the following children : 1. Lehr Elsworth, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. 2. Freda G. 3. Susan A. 4. James J. 5. Mabel. Judge Miller was a member of the Methodist Church and a prominent member of the Elks Lodge. He was also a charter member of Spencerville Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and belonged to the Modern Woodmen of America, and Home Guards of America. Throughout his life Judge Miller was an outstanding Democrat. He was a member of the Democratic County Central Committee for a number of years, and served as a delegate to the St. Louis National Convention from the Fourth Congressional District. Lehr Elsworth Miller is a well known figure in the business and civic life of Lima, where he holds the responsible position of manager of The Home Owners Loan Corporation, District No. 5. He has spent his entire life in Allen County and his persistent and commendable efforts have benefitted alike himself and his community, for he has always had deeply at heart the well being and 1124 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO improvement of the county, using his influence whenever possible for the promotion of movements for the advancement of the comunity along material, moral and civic lines. He is a member of an excellent old pioneer family of Allen County and was born on the Miller homestead in Amanda Township, September 13, 1878. His parents were Azariah D. and Darthula (Place) Miller, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. His paternal ancestors were established in Virginia at an early date, and from that state came his great-grandfather, Ferdinand Miller, who took a prominent part in the establishment of Allen County. He was a colonel in the War of 1812 and came to Fort Amanda with his regiment, which was recruited in Ross County, Ohio, and later went to Fort Meigs and engaged in that battle in 1813. He was the first juryman ever drawn in Allen County and was the first township treasurer of Marion Township, Allen County, Ohio, and the first Methodist Episcopal meeting ever held in the county was held in his home. The paternal grandparents, Joseph and Manenia J. (Shock) Miller, were natives respectively of Ross County, Ohio, and Somerset, Pennsylvania, while his maternal grandparents, James and Susan (Culver) Place, were both born and reared in Ohio, the former in Belmont County and the latter in Delaware County. Joseph Miller settled in Amanda Township near what is now known as Fort Amanda in 1827, and nine years later James Place brought his family here and located at old Fort Amanda. These pioneers became prosperous farmers of Allen County and assisted mate-rially in its early development. After their marriage, Azariah D. and Darthula Miller settled on a farm in Amanda Township, where they lived for many years. In 1894 Mr. Miller was appointed deputy probate judge of Allen County, and was later elected judge of the Probate Court. He was reelected to that office and served for six years. Upon the expiration of his official term he resumed the practice of law. Lehr E. Miller received his education in the public schools and began his business career as a traveling representative of the HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1126 American Woolen Mills Company. He later purchased a farm in Amanda Township. He became a bridge contractor in 1913, but in the following year assumed the duties of deputy sheriff of Allen County and served in that capacity for sixteen months. He resigned in order to fill the office of treasurer of Allen County, being reelected to the latter office in 1918. After the expiration of his second term, Mr. Miller became interested in the farm loan business in Lima, and also represented a number of important life insurance companies. He received his present appointment as manager of the Home Owners Loan Corporation in District No. 5, on August 11, 1933. On March 31, 1900, Mr. Miller married Miss Josie O. Staup, of Amanda Township, the daughter of Lewis and Nancy (Bowers) Staup, the former a native of Miami County, and the latter of Amanda Township, Allen County. They have a son, Lawrence Elsworth, born June 21, 1909. He is a graduate of Central High School, Lima, and attended Miami University. Mr. Miller is a Democrat and in 1920 was elected chairman of the County Democratic Executive Committee and served five terms, which expired in 1930, and also was elected state central committeeman of the Fourth District of Ohio, serving three terms and refused to run for the fourth, without opposition. He also refused the state chairmanship of the Central Committee. Mr. Miller is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Miller firmly believes in the axiom pronounced by a once prominent leader of his political party, to the effect that "public office is a public trust," and he has so discharged his duties as to win the universal commendation of the voters of Allen County. Promptness, accuracy, and courtesy have characterized the work of his office, one of the most important in the county organization. While living in Amanda Township he served two terms as township assessor, and for six years was also director of the Allen County Agricultural Society. During the World War he took an especially active part in all war work, and assisted in the organization and successful completion of nine different drives. 1126 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO He possesses to a marked degree those sterling traits which have commanded uniform confidence and regard, and he merits the public recognition which he has received at the hands of his fellow citizens. Edmund H. Hedges, M. D.—Outstanding among the eminent surgeons of West Central Ohio may be mentioned Dr. E. H. Hedges, who has practiced medicine at Lima since 1920. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, past secretary of the Academy of Medicine of Lima and Allen County, and holds membership in the Ohio State Medical Society, American Medical Association, and American Urological Association. Doctor Hedges was born at Upper Sandusky, Ohio, June 16, 1894, the son of H. E. and Catherine (Fleck) Hedges. H. E. Hedges, who lived retired at Upper Sandusky, Ohio, from 1927 until his death, December 20, 1933, was a native of Allen County. Throughout his career he was interested in general farming and stock raising. Mr. Hedges is a Republican. His wife, also a native of Allen County, died November 11, 1919, and is buried at Upper Sandusky. They were the parents of two sons: 1. Edmund H., the subject of this sketch. 2. Karl, a World War veteran, lives at Upper Sandusky. The boyhood of Edmund H. Hedges was spent at Upper Sandusky, and he is a graduate of St. Peter's parochial school. He was graduated in 1912 from Campion College High School, at Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, and then attended St. Louis University for two years. He received the degree of Doctor of Medicine at the same institution in 1918, and during the World War was attached to the Officers Medical Reserve Corps at the university. His interne work was completed at St. Mary's Hospital and St. Louis City Hospital, and later, Doctor Hedges became an assistant to Dr. Robert H. Herbst, at Rush Medical School, Chicago, Illinois. He then established a private practice in the city HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1127 of Lima in 1920, and at the present time has offices at 400 Steiner Building. During 1928 Doctor Hedges took graduate work at the University of Vienna, Austria, and he is now visiting urologist at Saint Rita's and Lima Memorial Hospital and consulting urological surgeon at the Lima State Hospital for the Insane. In 1921 Doctor Hedges married Miss Mary C. Smith, of Saint Louis, Missouri, the daughter of William J. and Mary (Durnin) Smith, natives of Ireland. Mr. Smith is deceased and is buried at St. Louis. His widow resides at Lima. Doctor and Mrs. Hedges have two sons, Edmund H., Jr., and William Joseph. Politically, Doctor Hedges is independent. He is a member of St. John's Catholic Church, at Lima, and is affiliated with B. P. O. Elks, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Phi Rho fraternity. He is also a member of the Shawnee Country Club. Elmer E. Welty, of Lima, is one of the popular younger members of the Allen County bar, and he is also serving as assistant city solicitor. He was born at Pandora, Putnam County, Ohio, September 3, 1906, the son of Elias and Elizabeth (Amstutz) Welty. Elias Welty and his wife are natives of Pandora, Ohio, and now reside at Lima. He grew up on a farm and in early life became interested in the manufacturing business as the owner of the Pandora Overall Manufacturing Company, at Pandora. In 1914 he established a branch plant at Lima, which he successfully operated for two years. At the present time Mr. Welty is a traveling salesman. He is a Democrat, a member of the Congregational Church, and belongs to the United Commercial Travelers. Mr. and Mrs. Welty are the parents of six children: 1. O. S., lives at Lima. 2. Mrs. Catherine Garrett, lives at Lima. 3. Dorothy, unmarried, lives at Cleveland, Ohio. 4. Elmer E., the subject of this sketch. 5. Ruth Edminston, lives at Marion, Ohio. 6. Ladahlia Messick, lives at Lima. 1128 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO The early education of Elmer E. Welty was received in the public schools of Putnam County and Lima, being a graduate of Lima High School in 1924. He then studied law at Ohio Northern University for two years and completed his training in the office of W. H. Leete and Melvin C. Light, being admitted to the Ohio State Bar in 1928. He has since been associated in practice with Mr. Light. They have offices in the National City Bank Building. On June 8, 1929, Mr. Welty was united in marriage with Miss Dorothy Tolford, of Lima, the daughter of Dr. George K. and Clara (Spencer) Tolford, the former a native of Adrian, Michigan, and the latter of Logan County, Ohio. They live in Lima. Mr. and Mrs. Welty have a daughter, Nancy Lee. Mr. Welty is a Republican in politics. He holds membership in the Congregation Church, and belongs to Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Mr. Welty served during 1925-32 as a member of the Ohio National Guard, as a member of Battery D, 135th Field Artillery; and at the present time holds the commission of first lieutenant in the U. S. Army, Officers Reserve Corps. Frederic G. Maurer, M. D.—Widely known in medical circles in Allen County is Dr. Frederic G. Maurer, who is engaged in successful practice at Lima, with offices in the Steiner Building. He was born here June 28, 1893, the son of Christian Frederic and Catherine (Phalen) Maurer. Christian Frederic Maurer is a native of Ohio, born at Sidney. His wife was born in Shelby County. For a number of years Mr. and Mrs. Maurer lived at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and later located at Lima, where he was employed in the shops of the Lake Erie & Western Railway. He remained with that concern until his retirement a number of years ago. Mr. Maurer and his family are members of St. John's Catholic Church, and he belongs to the Elks Lodge and Woodmen of America. Their children are: HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1129 1. Frederic G., the subject of this sketch. 2. Dr. E. L., dentist, lives at Lima. The early education of Frederic G. Maurer was received in the parochial schools of Lima and in 1914 he was graduated from St. John's Academy, at Toledo. He also attended St. John's University and received the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Ohio Northern University. In 1916 he entered the School of Medicine at St. Louis University, and received the degree of Doctor of Medicine there in 1920. During 1920-21 he served as interne at St. Vincent's Hospital, Toledo, and from 1921 until 1924 was located in private practice at Delphos, Ohio. In 1924 Dr. Maurer, in preparation for internal medicine, his chosen field in medical practice, was with Dr. Lewellys F. Barker, Baltimore, Maryland, and on the medical clinic staff of Johns Hopkins. He remained in post-graduate work until May, 1926, and at that time located in the City of Lima as an associate of Dr. Howard F. Webb, pathologist, and the late Dr. D. W. T. McGriff. Dr. Maurer's practice is limited to internal and consulting. He is a member of the staffs of Lima Memorial Hospital and St. Rita's Hospital, also being a consultant at the Lima State Hospital. He holds membership in the Lima and Allen County Medical Societies, Ohio State Medical Association. He was made a Fellow of the American College of Physicians in 1931. In 1920 Dr. Maurer was united in marriage with Miss Odilia Ann Neumeyer, of Toledo, the daughter of Henry C. and Mary (Schriever) Neumeyer. Mr. Neumeyer, a native of Cincinnati, died in 1930. His widow is a native of Toledo, where she resides. Doctor and Mrs. Maurer have three sons: 1. Frederic George, Jr., born in 1921. 2. Robert Walter, born in 1925. 3. Thomas William, born June 28, 1927. Dr. Maurer is a Democrat, a member of St. John's Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus, 4th degree; American Legion; and Shawnee Country Club. During 1922 he was president of the Kiwanis Club at Delphos. He is interested 1130 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO in amateur photography and is a member of the Miniature Club of Toledo. Oscar N. Young.—Representative of the progressive and successful business men of Lima is Oscar N. Young, who is agency manager in West Central Ohio for the Ohio State Life Insurance Company, of Columbus. He has been interested in the insurance business in this city since 1898, and during the past 26 years has represented the same concern, being agency manager of the following counties: Allen, Hardin, Van Wert, Mercer, Darke, Miami, Shelby, Auglaize, Logan, and Champaign. He maintains 20 branch offices, with headquarters in the Dominion Building, at Lima. Mr. Young was born in Allen County, the son of Amos and Catherine (Pfeifer) Young. Amos Young was born in Clearfield County, Ohio, June 25, 1843, and is now deceased. He was the son of John H. and Sarah (Meyers) Young. The former was a native of Berks County, Pennsylvania, where he was educated and learned the trade of wagonmaker. He came to Ohio in 1815 and settled in Clear Creek Township, Fairfield County, where he died December 25, 1843, six months after the birth of his son, Amos Young. His wife was Sarah Meyers, the daughter of George N. Meyers, a native of Pennsylvania. To John Young and his wife were born twelve children, of whom Amos was the youngest. The mother died in 1878. Amos Young was reared on the family homestead in Fairfield County and attended the district schools. He remained with his mother until he was 21 years of age, and managed the farm. He then married and settled on land in Fairfield County which he farmed until 1867. In that year he came to Allen County and purchased 80 acres of land in German Township, which he suc-cessfully operated until 1888. He retired from farming in order to assume the duties of superintendent of the Allen County In- HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1131 firmary, which office he filled for almost five years. He was then elected treasurer of Allen County on the Democratic ticket, having defeated his Republican opponent by 833 votes. In 1893 he was elected for a second term by a majority of seven hundred votes. In April, 1864, Amos Young married Miss Rebecca Crites, a native of Allen County, the daughter of Charles and Sophia (Ludwig) Crites. She died in August, 1868, being survived by two children: 1. Aurelia, deceased. 2. Melinda, the widow of William Roush, lives at Toledo, Ohio. On November 29, 1874, Amos Young married (second) Mrs. Catherine (Pfeifer) Borst, whose daughter, Mary E. Coyner, widow, resides at Delaware, Ohio. Catherine (Pfeifer) Young was a native of German Township, Allen County, born March 29, 1843, the daughter of Nicholas and Eve Pfeifer. Two children were born to Amos and Catherine (Pfeifer) Young: 1. Oscar N., the subject of this sketch. 2. Lelia Mabel, married Edward Reel, lives at Toledo. Amos Young and his wife were members of the Lutheran Church, and he belonged to the Elks Lodge and Knights of Pythias. Both are buried at Lima. Oscar N. Young attended Lima High School, and Lima Lutheran College. He began his business career as a book-keeper in the First National Bank at Lima and, as mentioned above, became interested in the insurance lousiness in 1898. He was appointed general agent for the Ohio State Life Insurance Company in 1908, at that time being in charge of two counties. He was soon promoted to district manager, and since 1931 has maintained his present offices in the Dominion Building. He is a charter member of the Lima Association of Life Underwriters, charter member and former president of the Ohio State Association of Life Underwriters, and a member of the National Association. Mr. Young was united in marriage with Miss Evalett Fellows, of Union City, Ohio, the daughter of John and Belle (Cowdrey) Fellows, natives of Galion, Ohio. Mr. Fellows died in 1929. His 1132 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO widow lives at Lima. To Mr. and Mrs. Young were born four children: 1. Doris G., a graduate of Central High School, Lima, and Miami University. She married O. V. McMillen, of Lima, and they have three sons : William, James, and Thomas J. 2. Katherine M., a graduate of Central High School, Lima, and Virginia College at Roanoke, Virginia. She is private secretary to her father. 3. Collis A., was associated in business with his father, but now is in the advertising business in Cincinnati, Ohio. He married Miss Bernice Alvendefer, of Circleville, Ohio. 4. Franklin Woodrow, a graduate of Central High School, class of 1933. He received a scholarship to Dartmouth College, where he is now a student. Politically Mr. Young is a Democrat. He is a prominent member of the First Baptist Church of Lima, and has recently retired after eighteen years as superintendent of the Sunday school. He is moderator of the Auglaize Baptist Association, which comprises 22 churches in Western Ohio. Mr. Young is a director of the Lima Y. M. C. A., and a member of the Ohio State Committee of that organization. He is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias. The family residence is located at 1021 West High Street, Lima. Jess L. Sarber.—On October 12, 1933, as sheriff of Allen County, Jess L. Sarber gave his life in the line of duty when he was shot down ruthlessly by vicious gangsters, who liberated John Dillinger, Indiana desperado, from the Allen County Jail. He was one of the most popular and efficient sheriffs Allen County ever had. Not only was he popular as an official but the tremendous vote he received when he was a candidate for the first time and again last fall when he stood for reelection attested to the high esteem in which he was held as a citizen. Jess L. Sarber was born in Van Wert County, Ohio, June 28, 1886, the son of Sheldon Sarber. He was descended from pioneer HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1133 stock, his great-grandfather having come to Allen County more than 100 years ago and settled on a farm in Sugar Creek Town-ship. As a boy Jess L. Sarber attended Ridge School. He left the family homestead at the age of 22 years and conducted a livery stable business at Elida. His partner was Roy F. John, who is now a car dealer in Lima. In 1912 Mr. Sarber came to Lima and established a livery business in what is now known as Buckeye Alley, in the southwest corner of the Public Square. It was called Sarber & Johns Sale Barn. Later he became associated with Ed Williams on South Main Street, and when Mr. Williams died he took over the entire business. Later Mr. Sarber became interested in the automobile business and established one of the early sales agencies and garages in the city. The garage was in East Spring Street. His associate at one time was Rush White, and in later years Mr. Sarber devoted his entire time and energy to politics. He was elected sheriff of Allen County in November, 1929, by one of the largest votes ever given a Demo-cratic candidate in Allen County, and assumed office in January, 1930. He was reelected in the fall of 1931, leading the field by 7,000 votes. His untimely death at the hands of gangsters has ended a career which was outstanding, and as a public official he possessed an absolute genius for friendship and kindness. He was succeeded in office by his son, Donald F. Sarber, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history. Jess L. Sarber was married to Miss Lucy Stemen, a native of Elida, Ohio, the daughter of Noah Stemen, a Civil War veteran and for many years justice of the peace at Elida. She is a grad-uate of Elida High School and Lima Business College. She is matron of the Allen County Jail. To Mr. and Mrs. Sarber was born a son, Donald F. Mr. Sarber was a member of the Ohio Sheriff Association, and was affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Lions Club. 1134 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO The Police and Sheriff's short wave radio at Findlay, Ohio, has been dedicated to Mr. Sarber. Donald F. Sarber, who was appointed as sheriff of Allen County to succeed his father, Jess L. Sarber, murdered by gangsters on October 12, 1933, is believed to be one of the youngest sheriffs in the nation. As he prepared to assume the responsibilities of the office, the youthful sheriff said he intended to follow the office practices of his father. "My first duty, of course, will be to find the murderers of my father and bring them to justice," he said. The new official was named to fill the unexpired term of his father, which runs until January, 1935. He had been deputy sheriff during the first and second terms of his father's office, and the commissioners of Allen County felt that he was well qualified for the office of sheriff. Donald F. Sarber was born at Elida, Allen County, August 25, 1909, the son of Jess L. and Lucy (Stemen) Sarber. He obtained his elementary education in the Lima, Franklin and Faurot grade schools and was graduated from Central High School in 1927. He attended Tri-State College, at Angola, Indiana, from which he was graduated in 1931, with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. He cast his first ballot at the Allen County primary when his father was a candidate for sheriff for the first term. Prior to entering the office of deputy sheriff, Donald F. Sarber was employed by his father, who formerly was interested in the automobile business at Lima. He became a regular deputy when his father entered on his second term of office. Mr. Sarber is a Democrat, and holds membership in Trinity Methodist Church, at Lima. He also is a member of the Knights of Pythias and Phi Delta Kappa fraternity. He is identified with the Buckeye Sheriffs' Association, Sheriffs' and Police Officers' Association of America. HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1135 Edward B. Pedlow, M. D.—One of the better known surgeons of Allen County is Dr. Edward B. Pedlow, who is successfully engaged in practice at Lima, with offices in the Steiner Building. He is identified with the staffs of St. Rita's and Lima Memorial Hospitals, and is consulting surgeon and trustee of the District Tuberculosis Hospital. He holds membership in the Lima and Allen County Academy of Medicine, Ohio State Medical Association and the American Medical Association. Dr. Pedlow was born at Ravenna, Ohio, March 10, 1895, the son of David and Rose (Bach) Pedlow. David Pedlow, deceased, was a native of Ireland. He was eight years old when he came to this country with his parents, who settled at Ravenna, Ohio. His entire career was spent in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and for many years he was a locomotive engineer. He was killed in a railroad wreck near Ravenna in 1907. Mr. Pedlow was a Democrat and held membership in the Masonic Lodge and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. His wife was born at Ravenna and died there in 1895. Their only child was Edward B., the subject of this sketch. Following his graduation from the public schools of Ravenna in 1915, Edward B. Pedlow entered Kenyon College. He left school to enlist for service in the World War in May, 1918, and was sent to Camp Gordon, Georgia. Following his discharge in 1919 he resumed his studies at Kenyon College, but in the fall of that year entered Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, from which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1923. During the following year he was an interne at the Methodist Hos-pital in Philadelphia, and in 1924-25 was a member of the staff of Lima City Hospital. He has been located in the City of Lima since October, 1925. On September 15, 1926, Dr. Pedlow married Miss Carolyn A. Jamieson, of Spencerville, Ohio, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. 1136 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Albert Jamieson, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. They live at Spencerville. Dr. and Mrs. Pedlow have two children, 1. Edward B. Jr. 2. Margaret Ellen. Dr. Pedlow is affiliated with Lima Lodge No. 585, F. and A. M.; Lima Chapter No. 49, R. A. M., and Kinsman Council No. 76, R. and S. M.; Clinton Commandery No. 5, K. T., and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He also belongs to the Beta Theta Pi and Alpha Kappa Kappa fraternities. Dr. Pedlow holds a commission in the U. S. Medical Reserve Corps. Hon. William Rusler.—The late Hon. William Rusler, second in line of the Rusler family of pioneers in this community, was known as the "Sage of Shawnee" for good reason. Early in life he began weaving a rich background for a reputation as the friend of all mankind. His noble ideals and humanitarian instincts won him an enviable place in this district and provided a lofty criterion for those who would be sincere in efforts to "carry on. “ Hundreds of close friends of Mr. Rusler called him "Colonel" in later life because of his majestic bearing and ability for leadership. His younger friends knew him fondly as "Uncle Bill." Always full of energy and remarkably active up to the day his last long illness of influenza attacked him, Mr. Rusler ended a brilliant career only when death came in his 78th year. He passed away at his Shawnee Township home on June 26, 1929. It was less than twenty years after the Allen County Commissioners granted the petition of the people of Shawnee to set off township 4, range 6, as a separate township, that Mr. Rusler, the man who was to become a distinguished member of the Ohio State Legislature, was born. While always diligently occupied with his 180-acre farm in section 17, he took active interest in public affairs as a youth. He was elected a member of the Ohio HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1137 House of Representatives in 1894 and ably represented the county during his term of office. Among the many public services he performed were those as chief deputy of the Allen County Board of Elections for several years; as a member of the commission that built the monument at Fort Amanda; as president for several years of the Allen County Fair Board; as a member of the Allen County Historical Society; and as vice-president of the Elida Pioneer Society for a number of years. During the World War, Mr. Rusler was president of the Liberty Loan drives in Shawnee Township and led them "over the top." Mr. Rusler was born March 7, 1851, in Shawnee Township, about two and a half miles east of the family home. He was the son of Philip and Elizabeth (Anthony) Rusler, and a grandson of George Rusler. Because of their great activity in this county during the last 86 years, Mr. Rusler's family history is of great interest to those who would learn to know better the men whose courage and strength brought rapid progress. Mr. Rusler's grandfather, George Rusler, was a native of Pennsylvania, and it was about 1820 that he located in Trumbull County, Ohio, where he died. He married Elizabeth Ellenbarger, a native of Germany. Only two of their several children came to Allen County: John, who later settled near St. Mary's, and Philip. The latter was born in Trumbull County, October 17, 1825, and in 1847 moved to Allen County, where, with the exception of two years in the early part of the Civil War, he devoted his time to farming. In the two-year interlude he and his family resided just north of St. Mary's. In spite of the fact that he was always handicapped physically by delicate health, Philip Rusler could not resist the call of his country's cause in the Civil War, and consequently served in the army during the winter of 1864-65. After the end of the conflict he returned to his farm, where most of the work was done by his son, William. Philip died in 1874 at the age of 49. 1138 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Philip married Elizabeth Anthony, a native of Jackson County, Ohio, and a daughter of David and Nancy Anthony, by whom he had five children. They were William, David, Mary Catherine, Franklin, and a child who died in infancy. Of these children, all died in childhood except William and Franklin. The latter died at the age of 30. Philip was a Democrat and religiously attended the Methodist Episcopal Church. William Rusler was reared in Shawnee Township except during the two years his family moved to near St. Mary's. After their return to Shawnee, William's education was completed in district schools and in the Lima High School. He taught school in the township for 13 years. Among the many public offices he has held were township clerk, land assessor, and twice a member of the school board. For three years he served as Indian farmer of the Lake Court Oreilles Reservation, one of the seven reserves constituting the LaPoint Agency in Northwestern Wisconsin. During his term in the legislature he accounted for himself with a militant fight against bossism and corruption in obtaining party nominations. Mr. Rusler was married in 1874 to Anna McClintock, who died in 1884, leaving four children : Tessie J., who married D. A. Bowsher and lives in Shawnee Township; C. A. Rusler; Eva May, who married John Seref ; and Daisy, who married Ira Coon. His second marriage, in 1884, was to Sophronia Wiesenmayer, a native of Shawnee Township and a daughter of George Wiesenmayer, who lives in Amanda Township. To this union was born a daughter, Bessie M., who was named after an Indian. She married Guy Culp and took up their home in Shawnee Township. Mr. Rusler's progressiveness was reflected in the modern methods he employed in farming, and many of his ideas were adopted by farmers throughout northwestern Ohio. From his youth he knew little but hard work, and the success he attained was the result of individual effort. HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1139 A member of many social organizations, he also was an active member of Shawnee Methodist Episcopal Church, and the Knights of Pythias Lodge. Joseph H. Davison is widely and favorably known in the City of Lima, where he is principal of South High School, and he is a member of one of the most prominent families of Allen County. He was born at West Newton, Ohio, October 16, 1894, the son of John and Clara (Hay) Davison. A complete sketch of John Davison appears elsewhere in this history. Joseph H. Davison received his early education in the public schools of Ada and Lima. Following his graduation from Lima High School in 1912, he taught in the district schools of Allen, Auglaize and Marion counties, and also was a member of the faculty of Lima High School. During 1917-21 he was employed in the steel foundries at Lima and Huntington, Indiana, and in the latter year entered Ohio State University, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Science in Education in 1925. He has been principal of South High Scool, at Lima, since 1926. Mr. Davison holds membership in the Northwestern Teachers Association, Ohio Education Association, National Education Association, and National Principals Association. He is presi-dent of the Lima Open Forum, and has also been president of the Lima Teachers Association and Rotary Club. On November 5, 1917, Mr. Davison married Miss Dorothy Richards, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Rev. John W. and Caroline (Pffeifer) Richards. He is pastor of St. Luke's Church at Philadelphia, where he and his wife reside. He was formerly pastor of St. Luke's Lutheran Church of Lima. To Mr. and Mrs. Davison were born two children: 1. John Richards, born in 1918, died May 30, 1933. 2. Dorothea Richards, born in 1926. 1140 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Mr. Davison is a member of Zion Lutheran Church and belongs to Beta Theta Phi and Phi Delta Kappa fraternities. He also holds membership in the Masonic Lodge, Child Welfare Association, and Boy Scouts of America, being a member of the Boys' Works Commission of the Y. M. C. A. Bluffton-Richland High School.—The first schools in the vicinity of Bluffton were held in the various homes. Soon, however, a round log school house was built along Little Riley Creek, near the old arch bridge on the corner of what is now College Road and Grove Street, Bluffton, where the residence of Mr. Clair Fett now stands. This was known as District No. 1, Richland Township. The first school was taught by Benjamin Franklin Smith. This building was burned down in 1844 and was immediately replaced by a hewn log structure, which stood until 1852, when it too was destroyed by fire. About this time a small school was built along Riley Creek on a site at the west corner of Lawn Ave-nue and Riley Creek. This building was a one-room frame structure, and was still standing in 1858 when Andrew Hauenstein first came to Bluffton, and it remained a school until 1860. Then on the site of the present grade school building on Jackson Street there was erected by a Mr. Clifford a two-story frame structure. In 1863, during the Civil War, Andrew Hauenstein, then a young man of nineteen, attended school for two or three months until the school broke up due to the fact that the teacher, Samuel Gaskell, raised a squad in answer to President Lincoln's call for 300,000 men. He enlisted with his teacher in the 54th Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was attached to the 15th Army Corps. This two-story frame building continued to be used for school purposes until the brick structure, still standing, and in use as the front part of the present grade school building, Jackson Street side, was erected during the summer of 1875. The two-story frame building was then sold to R. F. Cahill for $139, who moved the structure to its present location on North Main HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1141 Street, known as the J. O. Biome Block, where it is still being used as a business block. On February 15, 1875, the Board of Education passed a resolution proposing a bond issue for $10,000 to "erect a school house." The resulting structure was the Jackson Street building of the present grade school. It was in this building that the first high school in Bluffton was held, having its inception in "a motion made by A. G. Kibler, seconded by Jesse Vernon, that this board authorize the establishment of a high school grade." In 1898 it again became necessary to acquire additional school facilities and as a result the Lawn Avenue part of the present grade school building was erected. In April, 1904, a fourth year was added to the established three-year course of study. In April, 1911, a vote was had on a bond issue for $35,000 for the purpose of securing a site and erecting a high school building. From 1921-29 the high school was maintained as a joint high school of Bluffton Village and Richland Township, under the charter name of the Bluffton-Richland High School. Upon the creation of the Bluffton-Richland Village School District in July, 1929, it again became necessary to furnish additional secondary school facilities, and on November 4, 1930, there was submitted to the voters of the enlarged district a bond proposal for $148,000 to remodel and construct an addition to the 1912 building. This proposal was endorsed by the voters by about three to one. The building which was dedicated on November 10, 1933, stands as evidence of the interest of the people in the welfare of their youth, and the faith of the community in their schools. The present Bluffton-Richland High School occupies a lot with a 152-foot frontage on South Main Street, 162 feet on South Jackson Street, and 346.5 feet on West College Avenue. The new addition is of fireproof construction and contains features that make the school one of the most modern in the state. Since 1912 Bluffton High School has been continuously recognized by and on the approved list of secondary schools of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. 1142 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Superintendents identified with the Bluffton-Richland school system are: S. C. Patterson (1878-87) ; U. M. Shappell (1887-94); B. F. Biery (1894-1900) ; E. C. Akerman (1900-06) ; C. A. Arganbright (1906-14) ; C. C. Nardin (1914-20) ; C. E. Bender (1920-25); and A. J. B. Longsdorf, 1925 to present. Note: We are indebted to Andrew Hauenstein, Bluffton's venerable druggist, now 90 years old, senior member of A. Hauenstein & Son, for much of our information regarding early school affairs in Bluffton. He has been in the drug business in Bluffton since 1868, starting in business at the corner where the Boss Glove Factory now stands, but in the building now occupied by M. M. Bogart & Son. Following the building of the Lake Erie Railroad when the town of Bluffton moved south along what is now Main Street, Mr. Hauenstein built the present Hauenstein Block in 1878, where he has since been in the drug business. Homer E. Reeder.—One of the representative business men and substantial citizens of Allen County is Homer E. Reeder, who is president of the Lima Armature Works, Inc., at Lima. He was born at Rock Port, Allen County, August 10, 1895, the son of Alvin and Estella (Desenberg) Reeder. Alvin Reeder is a native of Allen County, born in Monroe Township. His wife, born there, died in 1896, and is buried in Rock Port Cemetery. Mr. Reeder was a carpenter and building contractor during his early life, but is now identified with the Lima Armature Works, Inc., as manager of the magnetic sepa-rator department. He is a Democrat, and holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. There were two children born to Mr. and Mrs. Reeder : 1. Viola, who died at the age of two years. 2. Homer E., the subject of this sketch. Homer E. Reeder acquired his early education in the public schools of Allen County, and was graduated from high school at Ovid, Michigan. He then took a four-year course in electrical HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1143 engineering at Chicago, Illinois, and began his professional work at Findlay, Ohio, as superintendent of the Electrical Construction Motor Company. He was in charge of the company's plant at Norwalk, Ohio, for a time and in 1918 enlisted in the World War. He sailed for overseas duty in June, 1918, and participated in numerous important battles and drives of the war, as a member of Company A, 101st Infantry, 26th (Yankee) Division. Following his discharge in June, 1919, Mr. Reeder came to Lima with the Reed Brothers Company, electrical contractors. After a year he became associated with the Tibbett Electric Company, and in June, 1921, he purchased the motor departments of both above named firms, and at that time organized the Lima Armature Works, at 122 North Elizabeth Street. After three and one-half years the business had outgrown its quarters so completely that 1 it was removed to Water Street, and at that time incorporated. For several years the firm has been located at 436-40 North Main Street, on the Pennsylvania Railroad. The plant has a floor space of 23,000 feet, and specializes in electric welding, machine work, rebuilding and rewinding of electric motors and equipment, electrical contracting and construction work. They build new electric motors up to and including 15 horsepower. The company also manufactures magnetic separators for grain machinery, and patents for the latter are owned by Mr. Reeder himself. On June 10, 1920, Mr. Reeder was united in marriage with Miss Verda C. Steinman, of Jenera, Ohio, the daughter of Charles and Della (Miller) Steinman, natives of Hancock County, Ohio, now residents of Jenera, where Mr. Steinman has been a widely known lumber dealer for 35 years. Mr. and Mrs. Reeder have a son, Richard Steinman Reeder, born August 18, 1926. Mr. Reeder is a member of Trinity Methodist Church, and is affiliated with Garrett Wykoff Lodge No. 585, F. and A. M.; Lima Chapter No. 49, R. A. M.; Lima Council No. 20, R. and S. M.; Shawnee Commandery No. 14, K. T.; Antioch Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S.; Maumee Valley Consistory, 32nd degree, A. A. S. R.; 1144 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Al Koran Grotto, M. O. V. P. E. R.; B. P. O. Elks, Loyal Order of Moose, Lions Club, and Knights of Pythias, Lima Lodge No. 91, being chancellor commander (1934) of the latter organization. He also belongs to the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Shawnee Country Club. The family residence is located at 1620 Oakland Parkway, Lima. J. Paul Timmerman is widely and favorably known in Lima, where he is president and general manager of the Peerless Coal Company, at 326-30 East Kibby Street. He was born in this city, January 30, 1895, the son of Byron Abraham and Elizabeth (Dempsey) Timmerman. Byron Abraham Timmerman is a substantial citizen of Lima. He was born at Johnstown, New York, and spent his early life there. Shortly after his marriage he located at Delphos, Ohio, and subsequently came to Lima, where he spent twenty years as a machinist in the shops of the Lake Erie & Western Railroad. He then was employed by the Garford Motor Car Truck Com-pany, and in 1923 became associated with his son, Lynn B. Tim-merman, who is proprietor of the Timmerman Motor Sales Company at Lima. Mr. Timmerman is a Republican, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He has been a member of the official board of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church for the past twenty-five years. Elizabeth (Dempsey) Timmerman was born in Fulton County, New York, and died in 1927. She is buried at Lima. To Mr. and Mrs. Timmerman were born six children: 1. Lynn Byron, of the Timmerman Motor Sales Company, Ford dealers, Lima. 2. Wilbur L., proprietor of the Tri-angle Motor Sales Company, Chrysler and Plymouth dealers, Lima. 3. Mrs. Florence Rees, lives at Columbus. 4. J. Paul, the subject of this sketch. 5. Mrs. Bertha Miller, lives at Lima. 6. Robert L., identified with the Netherland-Plaza Hotel, at Cincinnati. HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1145 After his graduation from Lima High School in 1913, J. Paul Timmerman spent a year in the office of the master mechanic, Lake Erie & Western Railroad. He then attended Cornell Uni-versity for three years, but left college in 1917 to enlist for service in the World War. He was stationed at Camp Sherman, Ohio, until May 12, 1918, and on June 12th sailed for overseas duty. After the signing of the armistice he was one of the organizers of a Glee Club of seventeen members which traveled throughout France from January 17th until May 14, 1919. The outfit then returned to the United States and Mr. Timmerman was dis-charged from the service at Camp Mitchell, New York, June 13, 1919. He has since been interested in the retail coal business at Lima as proprietor of the Peerless Coal & Supply Company. The business was reorganized as the Peerless Coal Company in 1921, and in that year Mr. Timmerman also became a dealer in oil and gasoline. At the present time the company handles ice and also has an extensive wholesale and retail coal business. Mr. Timmerman is serving his second year as president of the Ohio Coal Conference, Inc., which comprises 80 per cent of the dealers of Ohio, with a membership of 930. He was president of the Lima Retail Merchants Credit Association for three years, and also holds membership in the Lima Retail Coal Dealers Credit Association. In 1920 Mr. Timmerman married Miss Eleanor Isham, of Lima, the daughter of Walter and Cora (Morris) Isham. The former was born at Ada, Ohio, and died in Chicago in 1901. The latter, a native of Allen County, resides at Lima. Before her marriage Mrs. Timmerman was a music teacher, and she is a charter member of the Etude of Lima. She also holds member-ship in the Eastern Star. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Timmerman : 1. John Paul, Jr. 2. Mary Isham, born February 13, 1923, died January 13, 1930. Mr. Timmerman is affiliated with Garrett Wykoff Lodge, F. and A. M.; Lima Chapter, Council, and Commandery; Dayton Consistory, 32nd degree; B. P. O. Elks; Kiwanis Club, past presi- 1146 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO dent; Theta Delta Chi fraternity; American Legion; Shawnee Country Club; and Lima Club. Weldon Evans.—Perhaps one of the best known and most successful of the younger business men of Lima is Weldon Evans, who is president and general manager of The Evans Coal Company, Inc. He was born at Hamilton, Butler County, Ohio, March 5, 1897, the son of Minor and Joan (Faber) Evans. Minor Evans, deceased, was a representative citizen and highly successful business man of Lima, where he was founder of The Evans Coal Company, Inc. Both he and his wife were born in Butler County. As a young man he spent fifteen years as a clerk in the clothing store of George Krebs at Hamilton, after which he served as superintendent of the Butler County Infirmary for two years. He removed with his family to Lima in March, 1913, and during the following five years conducted a retail baking business there. He became interested in the coal and building supply business in 1918, and was identified with that enterprise until his death, June 6, 1925. He is buried at Lima. The business has since been conducted by his sons, and was incorporated January 1, 1928. His widow resides in this city. Mr. Evans was a Democrat and a trustee of the Congregational Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Evans were born six children: 1. Claude F., born May 9, 1895, identified with The Evans Coal Com-pany, Inc. 2. Weldon, the subject of this sketch. 3. Ramon, born June 5, 1898, identified with the Lima Locomotive Works, and vice president of The Evans Coal Company, Inc. He married Miss Donna Crider, of Lima, and they have a daughter, Joan, born in 1923. 4. Vernon, born November 5, 1900, is secretary and treasurer of The Evans Coal Company, Inc. He married Miss Helen Berry, of Lima, and they have two children: Thomas Minor, born in 1922; Caroline Sue, born in 1932. 5. Wayne, born March 27, 1904, a salesman, The Evans Coal Company, Inc. HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1147 He married Miss Leone Bussert, of Gomer, Ohio, and they have a son, Derek Halton, born in 1931. 6. Jeanette, born September 30, 1906, a graduate of Ohio State University, now a graduate student at that institution. Weldon Evans attended the public schools of Hamilton, Ohio, and as a youth was associated with his father's bakery business at Lima. He enlisted for service in the World War in 1917 and attended the University of Cincinnati, where he studied automotive engineering. He served overseas and after the close of the war was stationed at Coblenz, Germany, with the Third Army Corps. He was discharged at Camp Dix, New Jersey, September 20, 1919. Upon his return to Lima, Mr. Evans became identified with his father's coal business, and as mentioned above is president and general manager of the concern. Since its incorporation the company has discontinued the sale of building material. On April 5, 1930, Mr. Evans was united in marriage with Miss Gladys Pfaff, of Wapakoneta, Ohio, the daughter of Ferdinand and Anna (Meyers) Pfaff, natives of Auglaize County. They have a son, Garth Kendall, born at Lima, August 17, 1932. Mr. Evans is a Democrat and is president of the Allen County Democratic Club, and a member of the Allen County Democratic Executive Committee. He holds membership in the Lima Post, No. 96, American Legion, of which he was commander in 1929. He also belongs to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, B. P. O. Elks, and Lima Club. Hon. Phil H. Wieland.—One of the citizens of real worth in Mt. Gilead is Phil H. Wieland, leading lawyer, who is serving as judge of the Common Pleas Court of Morrow County. He was born here, October 20, 1889, the son of William F. and Lilly (Prophet) Wieland. William F. Wieland, deceased, was a representative citizen of Mt. Gilead, where he spent his entire life. He was the son of 1148 - HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO Philip Wieland, who came to this city from Wuertenburg, Germany, in 1850, and engaged in the monument business at Mt. Gilead. The latter died in 1906 and was succeeded in business by his son, William F. Wieland, father of the subject of this sketch. He died June 11, 1925, and is buried at Mt. Gilead. His wife was born at Cardington, Ohio, and died in 1892. Mr. Wieland was a Republican and served for two terms as sheriff of Morrow County, 1912-16, and for eight years was secretary of the Morrow County Fair Board. He was a member of the Universalist Church, a 32nd degree Mason, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias. He held membership in the Ohio National Guard and for ten years was captain of Company E, Fourth Regiment. To William F. and Lilly (Prophet) Wieland only one child was born, Phil H., the subject of this sketch. He married (second) Miss Nettie Hauck, who survives him. She has been a court stenographer in Morrow County during the past 47 years. To William F. and Nettie (Hauck) Wieland was born a daughter, Mrs. Aldine Mozier, who lives at Springfield. Phil H. Wieland obtained his early education in the public schools at Mt. Gilead. He spent two years at Ohio Wesleyan University, and in 1912 received the degree of LL. B. at the College of Law, Ohio State University. He immediately established a private practice at Mt. Gilead, where he now resides. He served as prosecuting attorney during 1917-23, and from 1923 until 1929 was associated in practice with J. W. Barry, as a member of the firm of Barry & Wieland. Mr. Barry died in 1929. Judge Wieland was elected to the office of Common Pleas judge in November, 1932. On April 7, 1917, Judge Wieland married Miss Nell Wood, of Columbus, the daughter of C. E. and Addie (Eagle) Wood, natives of Gallia County, Ohio. They reside at Columbus. Mrs. Wieland is a graduate of East High School, Columbus, and Ohio State University, and before her marriage was a teacher in the HISTORY OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO - 1149 high school at Mt. Gilead. To Judge and Mrs. Wieland were born three children : 1. Virginia W., who died in infancy. 2. Phil H. Jr., born March 25, 1919. 3. Jane Ann, born December 31, 1923. Judge Wieland has always been a Republican. He belongs to the Masonic Lodge, University Club, of Columbus, Ohio, and Galion Country Club. He is a member of the Morrow County and the Ohio Bar Associations. Ernest J. Heil is a substantial and well known business man of Lima, where he is identified with the Val Heil & Son Coal Com-pany, and he has also served as city commissioner. He was born in this city, May 19, 1891, the son of Valentine and Rosa (Beyer) Heil. Valentine Heil is a native of Germany, born at Otterbach-on-Rhine, December 27, 1863. His wife was a native of Covington, Kentucky, and died in 1912. She is buried in Woodland Cemetery, Lima. The early life of Mr. Heil was spent in his native land, where he learned the trade of stonemason. He emigrated to the United States in 1882 and settled at Cincinnati, where he remained for six years. He then was employed in construction work on the old C., H. & D. Railroad, and D. & M. Railroad. When construction work reached the city of Lima in 1890, Mr. Heil remained here and became a successful contractor. He has lived retired since 1923. During his business career he completed such important contracts in stone work as the following: Y. M. C. A., Lima House, Holland Building, Norvelle Hotel, Black Build-ing, St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Lima Electric Light Company, Dominion Building, Lima High School, Danze Building, Waldo Hotel, Interurban Hotel, Deisel-Wemmer factories, and Lima street car plant. He also did residential work. At the present time he is vice president of the Citizens Loan & Building Company, Shawnee Finance Company, and Art Craft Sign Company. Mr. Heil is a Democrat, a member of the First Reformed Church,