350 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. covered with a dense grove of native forest trees; but by earnest and persistent toil he has transformed the place into highly-cultivated fields, and it is now a well-tilled, well-fenced property, improved with good buildings and all the accessories of a model farm. Mr. Winchell has found in his wife a faithful companion and helpmeet. He was married September 18, 1869, to Harriet Rineholt, who was born in Jackson township, Sandusky county, September 16, 1852, a daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Selsor) Rineholt, who were pioneers of Jackson township, where they still reside. Mrs. Winchell attended the public schools in the locality, and remained with her parents until her marriage, when she went to the farm which has since been her home. The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Winchell—Myra was born October 26, 187o, and was married November 13, 1890, to J. F. Wagner, who carries on general farming in Scott township. He was educated at Findlay, Ohio, and in Delaware College, from which he was graduated, while his wife has been a special student of vocal and instrumental music. Two bright children—Estella Ivonia and Hazel Gertrude—grace the home of their parents, bringing much life and enjoyment thereto. PETER NICKLES is one of the old and honored residents of Sandusky county, where he has lived for more than half a century, engaged in farming. He is a native of France, born February 26, 1815. His father, Henry Nickles, was a farmer of that country, and Peter spent the days of his boyhood and youth upon the old home place, where, aiding in the labors of the field, he became familiar with all the duties of agricultural life. In 1836, having attained years of maturity, Mr. Nickles determined to try his fortune in America, believing that he might better his financial condition thereby, and accordingly crossed the Atlantic to New York City. He did not remain long in the Eastern metropolis, however, but came direct to Sandusky county, Ohio, and after living at various places for a few years, located upon a seventy-seven-acre tract of timber land in Jackson township, the nucleus of his present landed possessions. This he at once began to clear and improve, and there made his home for thirteen years, when he came to Washington township. His entire life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits, and has therefore been a quiet one; but he has faithfully performed every duty that has come to him, and has won the respect of all with whom he has been brought in contact. On May 8, 1845, Mr. Nickles was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Joseph, who was born October 22, 1825, and was one of a large family; her father was a German farmer, living in Sandusky county. Eleven children were born of this union, as follows: Sophia, in 1846; Mary Ann, in 1848; Christina, November 5, 1849; Margaret, October 13, 1851, died October 1, 1874; Sarah, October 28, 1853; John G., October 13,, 1855; Anna, August 1o, 1858; Catharine Jane, March 9, 1861; Lydia, August 30, 1863; George H. , March 28, 1866, and Minnie, April 9, 1871. Mr. and Mrs. Nickles are still 'iv: ing on the old home farm that has been their place of residence for so many years. The father was industrious and enterprising, and as his financial resources increased he bought other property, and now owns ninety acres on which his son George lives, and ninety acres which is the home of his son John G. In politics he is a Republican, and formerly took quite an active interest in political affairs, but he has now largely withdrawn from public life. Both he and his wife are members of the Evangelical Church, and are worthy people, well meriting the esteem of their many friends. COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 351 JOHN G. NICKLES, the six child in the above mentioned family, has spent his entire life in Sandusky county. He was born on the old home farm in Washington township October 13, 1855, and passed the days of his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer lads, remaining with his parents until his marriage. On March 20, 1881, he wedded Miss Emily L. Culbert, daughter of a farmer of Sandusky county, and the young couple began their domestic life upon a ninety-acre tract of land belonging to Mr. Nickles' father, to the cultivation and improvement of which he has since devoted his time and energies. The fields are now well tilled, and the neat and thrifty appearance of the place indicates his careful. supervision. The home of Mr. and Mrs. John G. Nickles has been blessed with a family of six children, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Lottie Maud, November 24, 1882; Lucy, October 26, 1884; Helen, October 30, 1886; Addie, March 25, 1888; Walter, December 1, 1889; and Ruth, who died in early childhood. John G. Nickles exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican party, and has been called upon to fill the offices of road supervisor and school director, discharging the duties of both in a prompt and able manner. He is a worthy representative of one of the pioneer families of the county, and as a citizen is public-spirited and progressive, interested in whatever tends to promote the general welfare. L. KOLB was born in Schwetzingen, Baden, Germany, July 2, 1826, and is a son of Michael and Magdalena (Weir) Kolb. His father was a weaver in the old country, and followed that trade up to the time of his death. Both he and his wife spent their entire lives in their native land, the father passing away at the ripe old age of seventy-six years, while the mother died at the age of fifty-one. They left a family of six children, all of whom remained in Germany with the exception of our subject, to wit: Elizabeth (who became the wife of Frederick Boop, but both are now deceased), subject, Adam, Margaret. (wife of George Kolpe), Elizabeth and Philip. As soon as he was old enough our subject began working with. his father, and to the weaver's trade devoted his time: and energies until 1853, when he left home for the New World, hoping to benefit his financial condition by a residence. in America. Before leaving the Fatherland, however, he was united in marriage with Miss Susanna Kulpe, daughter of Louis and Barbara Kulpe, farming people who spent their entire lives in Germany. The daughter was the second in order of birth in a family of seven children, the others being Jacob, Effie, Abraham, Maria, Michael and Catherina. Mr. Kolb had no capital with which to begin life in the New World, but being a man of resolute spirit, and not afraid of work, he soon secured a start. His first position was as a section hand on the railroad, and he worked in that capacity some ten years, five of which were spent in Port Clinton, Ottawa Co., Ohio. After that he went to Norwalk, Ohio, where he was employed by the day as a farm hand for a period of five years. In the meantime he saved his earnings, and with the capital acquired removed to Washington township, Sandusky county, where he invested his earnings in eighty acres of farm land. This was in '855, and for thirty-five years he lived upon that place, continuing its cultivation, until the once wild prairie was transformed into rich and fertile fields. that yielded to the owner a golden tribute in return for his care and labor. In 1889 he purchased his present farm, to which he later removed, and here he is practically living retired, his son-in-law operating the farm, while he is resting in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil.. 352 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. To Mr. and Mrs. Kolb were born three children—one son and two daughters—the eldest of whom, Philip, born August 15, 1851, is now deceased; Lena, born November 4, 1853, is the wife of George Stotz, who is a farmer of Washington township (they have six children); Barbara, born June 26, 1869, is the wife of Jacob Beeker, who operates the old. Kolb homestead (to their union has been born one child). Mr. Kolb is a supporter of the Democracy, and is a member of the German Lutheran Church. He came to this country empty-handed, but has steadily worked his way upward, and the success he has .achieved is the just •reward of his own labors, and shows what can be accomplished by perseverance and energy in a -country where merit is unhampered by the closely drawn lines of caste or class. JACOB MONROE KING is the owner of one of the fine farms of Sandusky county, and a progressive and enterprising man whom the community may well number among its valued citizens. He was born on the farm which is still his home, and is a representative of one of the honored early families of the county. The date of his birth is December 21, 1860, and he is a son of Peter and Mary (Shoemaker) King, who came from Pennsylvania to Ohio in I850, locating on the place where our subject now resides. Here the father carried on farming until his death, which occurred on August 2, 188o, when he had attained the age of sixty-two years. He left 240 acres of land to be divided equally among his nine children. The record of this family is as follows: Samuel, who follows farming in Henry county; George W., an agriculturist of Rice township; Rebecca, who became the wife of I. J. Shoemaker, and died in Henry, Ohio, September 25, 1894, leaving a family of three children—George, Peter and Jacob; Levi, county commissioner of Henry county; Henry, who is engaged in farming in that county; Melinda, now the wife of S. Shoemaker, of Indiana, by whom she had two children—Maurievi (now deceased) and Jacob; Mary, wife of Noah Garrett, a farmer of Sandusky county, by whom she has one living child; Peter, an agriculturist of Henry county; and Jacob Monroe. Although the youngest of the family, Jacob Monroe King, upon his father's death, determined to purchase the homestead that it might not be divided, and by hard labor, industry and economy he succeeded in acquiring enough capital to purchase the interest of one brother and sister, and now lives upon the place which has been his home throughout his entire life. On December 22, 188o, Mr. King was united in marriage with Isabel Maurer, the esteemed daughter of Manuel Maurer, a well-known farmer of Washington township. With them resides the mother of Mr. King, who though now well-advanced in life bears her seventy-eight years lightly. The household is also blessed with the presence of seven children, constituting an interesting family, in order of birth their names and dates of birth being as follows: Clarence, October 28, 1881 ; Rosanna, April 13, 1882; Alvin, March 3, 1883; Levi, December 27, 1885; Alta, November 27, 1887; George L., October 16, 189o; and John, June 28, 1893. The home of this family is a fine frame residence which sets somewhat back from the road, and on the lawn in front stand many beautiful evergreen trees, which throw their grateful shade over the home in summer, protecting it from Sol's hot rays. The farm is highly improved and cultivated, and waving fields of grain indicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner. In addition he also has one of the finest apple orchards in this section of the county, comprising nine acres on which are raised the following well-known varie- COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 353 ties: Baldwins, northern spies, rainbows, greenings, spitzenbergers, seek-no-farthers, and three different kinds of russets. In connection with general farming and fruit growing, Mr. King gives some attention to the raising of fine-bred hogs, and takes a deep interest in the breeding of good horses. His energetic nature carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes and he is a progressive business man, whose straightforward dealing and well-spent life have gained him the high regard of all with whom he has been brought in contact. In politics he is a Democrat. JONATHAN FALER, a contractor in Woodville township, Sandusky county, was born in Pennsylvania, January 10, 1821, son of George and Eva (Houtz) Faler, who came to Ohio from Pennsylvania and located in Perry county, where they bought a small tract, of timber land. The mother of the subject of this sketch died in Perry county when he was an infant only one year old, leaving him and six other children. His father married again, by which union he had five children, sold the tract of land in Perry county in 1833, rented a farm where he spent the remainder of his days, and died September 24, 1834. Jonathan Faler lived at home until his father's death, then went to Pickaway county, Ohio, secured a position as a farm hand, and worked one year. He then worked at various occupations for four years, and in 1842 came with a family to Woodville township, Sandusky county, where he was engaged in making potash for one year, then worked at clear ing land for six years. On December 24, 1843, he was united in marriage with 'Catherine Swartzman, and thirteen children were born to them, as follows: Mary A., born October 27, 1844, married Eli Good, a farmer of Hancock county, Ohio, by whom she had six children; Margaret, born February 8, 1846, died young; Lovica A., born July 3o, 1849, married John Angus, a farmer of Scott township, Sandusky county, Ohio; George A., born August 7, 1851, died May 16, 1872; John H., born November, 1853, living in Fostoria, Ohio; Lavina A., born January 23, 1856, married Jacob W. Good, of Fostoria, Ohio; Isaac, born June 15, 1858; Charles W., born May 15, 1861, died May 29, 1865; Emma I., born February 22,1864, married Charles G. Meyers, of Rising Sun, Montgomery township, Wood Co., Ohio; Nelson, born December 13, 1866; Jonathan D., born March 13, 1.868; Delias, born October 3, 1871, now deceased; and one deceased in infancy. The parents of Mrs. Jonathan Faler, Paul and Mary (Moore) Swartzman, were farmers in Sandusky county, where both died, the father at the age of forty-six, the mother at the age of fifty-seven. Mr. Faler began working at the carpenter's trade in 1849, and followed it until 1864, when he enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventy-seventh O. V. I., under the command of Col. Wilcox and Capt. Thomas. They were mustered in at Cleveland, Ohio, and sent to Murfreesboro, Tenn. Mr. Faler took an active part in several battles. On January 24, 1865, he was honorably discharged, and came home to his wife and family. Mr. Faler has more work as a contractor than he can take care of, and has a paying oil well on his place. He is an upright man, a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. BIRCHARD HAVENS, farmer, of Jackson township, Sandusky county, . was born near the place of his present residence, August 16, 1847, a son of Henry and Sarah (Iams) Havens. Henry Havens, the father of our subject, was one of the early pioneers of the Black Swamp, born at Columbus, Ohio, 354 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. and came to Sandusky county in the year 1837, entered 160 acres of land in Section 1o, Jackson township, to which more was added later, making 400 acres, about half of which he cleared himself of heavy timber, always worked very hard, and from exposure contracted consumption, of which he died. Birchard Havens, our subject, was the fourth in order of birth in the family of eight children, was reared upon his father's farm, and received the customary country-school education. He started out in life on his own account at the age of eighteen years, working on a farm for his brother William one year, and for John King one year. At the age of twenty he rented some land from his brother for one year, and subsequently bought eighty acres from Joseph Hammer for $5,000. After clearing off ten acres of the timber he sold it two years later to his brother, and in 187o bought the 152 acres where he now lives. He has 13o acres under good cultivation, of which he cleared a large part himself. He has always worked diligently, enjoyed good health, and been a good provider for his family. He is highly ,respected in his community, and has held various civil offices. Birchard Havens was married January 17, 1867, to Miss Elizabeth C. Overmyer, who was born February 19, 1844, daughter of Lewis and Mary (Stoffer) Overmyer. The father of Mrs. Havens was born December 10, 1810, and died October 1, 1886; her mother was born January 20, 1811, and died May 31, 1862. Their children were: Hugh, who married Dinah Kelley, by whom he had six children; Susan, who married John Kelley, and had two children; Mary Ellen, who married Henry Sheffner, who died, and for her second husband she married John Reed, who died, and she then wedded William Brown, who lives in Fremont, Ohio; Ben, who married Ellen Burkhart, and has two children-Charles and Coraetta; Elizabeth C., wife of our subject. The children of Birchard and Elizabeth Havens were as follows: Clara, born May 3o, 1868, married to Frank Kenan, and has two children-Armina Catharine, born March 7,,j890, and Edna Rose, born July 24, 1891; Hattie, born November 13, 1871, who has taught eight terms of school in Jackson township, and resides with her parents; Myrtie, born September 7, 1874, who died in childhood; Della, born May 1o, 1876; and one that died in infancy. Mr. Havens and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church, toward which they are liberal contributors. WILLIAM VOGT, a prosperous farmer of Riley township, San. dusky county, was born October 29, 1857, and is a son of Henry and Madeline Vogt, the former of whom was born in Switzerland January 31, 1811. Henry Vogt came to America. in 1837, and ran a large truck line. On June 20, 1848, in Philadelphia, . Penn., he was united in marriage with Madeline Mangold, who was born in France June 20, 1828, and they became the parents of six children, as follows: Henry, born August 4, 185o, married Mary Bauman, and lives in Fremont, Sandusky county; Albert, born January 13, 1853, married Tillie Hudson, and they have had one child (they live in Baliville township, Sandusky county); Elizabeth, born June 3, 1855, married Frank Bartis, and they had three children (she died February 21, 1892, and was buried in Ballville township, Sandusky county); William is the subject of this sketch; Frank, born December I, 186o, lives in Fremont, and George was born February 9, 1864. In 1860, after running the truck line for about twenty-three years, Henry Vogt sold out, came west, and settled in Ohio. He was in business two years in Fremont, and in 1862 moved to. Riley township, where he bought a farm of one hundred. COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 355 acres, which cost him two thousand dollars. In 1887 he sold this farm, bought a property of ninety-seven acres, and lived there until his death, which occurred January 1, 1882. He was school director for several years, was a Democrat in politics, and a member of the German Reformed Church. William Vogt was united in marriage May 4, 1880, in Riley township, with Mary Livingston, who was born June 3, 1859, and they have had two children, namely: William A., born January 22, 1881, and Charles M., born July 22, 1888. Mr. Vogt had the benefit of a common-school education. He has fifty-eight acres of valuable land about two miles northeast of Fremont, and follows general farming. He is a Democrat in politics, and attends St. John's Church. His grandfather Henry, who was born in Switzerland, married Barbara Hirt, and they had two children, Henry and John. DARLIN L. AMES, one of the native sons of Sandusky county, is a telegraph operator at Clyde. His birth occurred in that county, on the 24th of June, 1858, and from the business college of Clyde he was graduated in the class of 1876. He was reared to farming, but, not wishing to follow agricultural pursuits, he began the study of telegraphy in the office of the W. & L. E. Railway Company, in Clyde, after completing which he became operator for that company, and also for the Lake Shore & Michigan. Southern Railroad Company. He was next connected with the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad, being stationed at Monticello, Iowa, and also served as operator in Virginia for the Norfolk & Western railroad. He now makes his home in Clyde, being again in the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad Company, at that place. Mr. Ames was united in marriage with Miss Libbie Campbell, and their union has been blessed with one son, Floyd. Our subject is public-spirited and progressive, and there are few men more popular among the people of this community than he, who has spent nearly his entire life in their midst. He holds membership with the Knights of Pythias Lodge, No. 494, of Air Line Junction, Lucas Co., Ohio, and in social circles both he and his wife hold an enviable position. The father of our subject, Joel Loomis Ames, was born in New London county, Conn., July 30, 1822, and is a son of Martin and Eliza (Loomis) Ames, the former also a native of New London county, where he was born January 24, 1795, and the latter's birth occurred in East Lyme, Conn., May 27, 1802. The boyhood days of the grandfather were spent in his native State, where he was married, and he became the father of four children before coming west, in 1827, when he located at Auburn, Mich. There he made his home until 1836, when he came to Ohio, securing a farm in Section 6, York township, Sandusky county, and there made his home until his death, which occurred February 6, 1856. His wife survived him for seven years, being called to her final rest October 8, 1863. All his life had been devoted to agricultural pursuits, and with the assistance of his sons, he here cleared 200 acres of good farming land. He formerly belonged to the Baptist Church, but at the time of his death he was a Swedenborgian. His wife, after his death, made her home alternately with J. L. Ames, and J. Ames, a son, who resides in Wood county, Ohio, and there she passed away. In their family were eight children, namely: E. G., who was born September 5, 1820, was a store-keeper of Clyde, where he died July 12, 1849; Joel L. is the second of the family; Daniel, born May 30, 1824, is a resident of Bowling Green, Wood Co., Ohio; Jonathan, born March 20, 1826, lives in Carthage, Jasper Co., Mo. ; George, born October 14, 1830, died July 356 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 3, 1849; John, born July 16, 1836, died October 2, 1874; Eliza Ann, wife of William Russell, born February 28, 1840, died September 13, 1858; James, born September 10, 1843, died June 6, 1844. The paternal grandfather, Elder Jonathan Ames, was of English ancestry, and spent his entire life in New London county, Conn., where he was a devoted member of the Baptist Church. His death occurred May 22, 1830, when he was sixty-two years old. His father died October 27, 1814, at the .age of eighty-seven, while his mother, who died December 17, 1819, had reached the extreme old age of ninety-eight years. The maternal great-grandfather of our subject, Hon. Joel Loomis, was born May 5, 1773, and was one of the leading and prominent men of New London county, Conn. He held a number of important offices within the gift of the people, including that of justice of the peace, and judge of the county court, and he served as a member of the State Legislature. He was of English descent. Though he visited his grandchildren in Sandusky county, he continued to make his home in New London county, Conn., where he died in 1867. His brother was the father of Professor Loomis of Yale College, the author of the series of Loomis school and text books. We now return to the personal history of Joel Loomis Ames, who went to Michigan with his parents in 1827, and lived there until the spring of 1836, when the family moved to Ohio. Then he went back to Connecticut, and lived with an uncle until the fall of 1838, and attended school during the winter months, when he came to Ohio, and has lived here ever since. He has been twice married, his first union being celebrated August 6, 1857, when Jane E. Vincent became his wife. To them were born three children: Darlin L., whose name introduces this sketch; Jennie, who was born July 30, 1860, and died October 23, 1862; and Angie C., who was born May 23, 1864, and is the wife of H. H. Woodman, principal of the telegraph college, at Oberlin, Ohio. The mother of this family departed this life June 30, 1877. On August 27, 1879, Mr. Ames was again married, this time to Miss May Bement, a native of Michigan, born in Jackson, in April, 1843, and by his marriage there is one daughter-Edith. The father is one of the wealthy and influential citizens of the community, and the family now make their home in their beautiful residence in Clyde, where they are surrounded by many warm friends. Mr. Ames takes an active interest in everything that will benefit the community. His uprightness, integrity, and public-spiritedness, have won him the confidence and esteem of his neighbors, and he is classed among the respected representative citizens of Sandusky county. GEORGE FREY. Among the substantial farmers of Riley township, Sandusky county, whose energy and industry contribute to the prosperity and growth of that thriving community, is George Frey. He was born May 12, 1866, and is a son of George and Mary (Martin) Frey, who were born, respectively, March 30, 1821, and July 14, 1825, in Germany. George Frey, Sr., who was a jeweler by trade, sold out his business in the old country, and emigrated to America in 1853. Coming to Ohio, he settled in Riley township, and here bought twenty acres of land. Selling this property after a short time, he bought forty acres more, and this has been the homestead. He has had a family of eight children, namely: Sophia, born in 1846; Caroline, Frederick, Mary, Katie, Christina, Rosina, and George, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Frey is a graduate of several colleges in Germany, and holds the office of school director. He was drafted during the Civil war, and served nine months, and COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 357 after peace was declared returned to his family in Riley township. George Frey, the subject of this sketch, was reared to habits of diligence, frugality and virtue, and received a common-school education. He worked on the farm for his father until his twenty-first year, and then worked by the day. In 1893 he bought forty acres of land for two thousand dollars, and carried on general farming. Mr. Frey is a Democrat in politics, and in religious affiliation is a member of the Lutheran Church. He is much respected in the community and has many friends. CYRUS HARVEY McCARTNEY, farmer and fruit grower of Green Creek township, Sandusky county, was born in Erie county, Ohio, June 12, 1835, of old pioneer stock. His parents were William and Eliza (Cooper) McCartney, the former of whom was born in Kentucky in 1789, when a young man coming to Sandusky City; Ohio, some time prior to the war of 1812, when there was only one cabin on the site of that now flourishing city. He was the first settler of the place. He removed to Venice, Erie county, and there for six or seven years owned and operated the first saw and 'grist mill of the place. Selling it to Mr. Heywood, he bought a farm a half mile west of Venice, where he died in 1877, aged eighty-eight years. In politics he was originally an. Old-time Whig, afterward a Republican. At Mt. Vernon, Ohio, he had married Eliza Cooper, who was born in Trenton, N. J., of old Highland stock. The six children of William and Eliza McCartney were as follows: Katie, now Mrs. Dwelle, of Fremont; Charles, who died aged thirty years; Jessup, who died at the age of twenty-five years; Gertrude, wife of J. F. Chapman, of Erie county; Henry, of Erie county; and Cyrus Harvey. The youngest child, Cyrus Harvey McCartney, grew up on the farm and at tended the district schools. On December 25, 1859, he was married, at Castalia, Erie county, to Miss Margaret L. Criffen, who was born December 23, 1836, in Groton township, Erie county, daughter of Charles B. and Lovina (Vandercook) Criffen. Charles Criffen was an extensive landowner near Bellevue. His wife Lo vina Vandercook was born in Troy, N. Y., February 15, 1807, came to Ohio when about nineteen years old, and died in. Groton township, Erie county, aged sixty-two years. After his marriage Mr. McCartney settled on the old McCartney farm near-Venice, Erie county. He engaged in stock--raising and farming until 1877, when he purchased and moved to a farm of sixty-eight and a half acres in Green Creek township, Sandusky county. He has lived here ever since, except two years spent in " Egypt," Ill. Mr. and Mrs. McCartney have had seven children, as follows: Gertrude C., born November 8, 1860, now the wife of Thomas Bulger; Bell, born February 26, 1862, married to Dr. L. U. Howard; George D., born December 19, 1866; Eliza L., born February 16, 1873, died February 5, 1874; Florence May, born August 6, 1875; Maude C., born June 12, 1877; Harvey Jessup, born August 17, 1879. In politics Mr. McCartney is a pronounced Republican. WILLIAM H. WHITEHEAD, a young, well-educated, enterprising and successful farmer of Riley township, Sandusky county, was born on the 29th day of August, 1868, and is a son of Joseph and Laura (George) Whitehead. Joseph Whitehead, Sr., was born in England in i811. In 1833 he was united" in marriage with Matilda Albon, who was born in 1814, a daughter of John Albon, who came to the United States in 1833, the year of his daughter's marriage, and. 358 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. located in Erie county, Ohio. Mr. Whitehead, his son-in-law, a baker by trade, received such glowing accounts of the natural wealth and resources of this great land that he decided to leave Britannia's shores and make a home on this side of the billowy Atlantic. So he set out with his family in 1851, landed at Quebec, and came on from there to Sandusky, Sandusky Co., Ohio, part of the way by boat, but from Niagara to Chippewa on horseback, reaching Sandusky June 15, 1851. The same year Mr. Whitehead bought 120 acres of land, on which his son, Thomas C., now resides. Mrs. Whitehead departed this life in the fall of 1864, and Mr. Whitehead on February 10, 1892. Joseph Whitehead, Jr., the father of our subject, received only a limited education in his native land, and it was not augmented by schooling after reaching the United States. At the age of fifteen he accompanied his parents to America, and he has been a resident of Townsend township ever since. He served as a " hundred-day man " in the Civil war from May 2, 1864, until September 5, when he was discharged. On June 12, 1865, Mr. Whitehead married Laura George, who was born August 5, 1843, and they have had four children, as follows: -William H., born August 29, 1868, married Mary Howe, of Norwalk, Huron county, November 26, 1891; John T., born January I I, 1871; Bessie R., born in .1875, married Oscar Longanbach, on February 22, 1894; and Ross D., born September 28, 1878. The father of Mrs. Whitehead, Joseph George, formerly resided in Townsend township, but removed to Clyde, Green Creek township, Sandusky county, where both he and his wife were laid to rest. William H. Whitehead was carefully reared by his kind and devoted parents, received fair advantages for an education, which he diligently improved, worked on his father's farm and taught school during the winter of 1890, for a term of five months. He then went to Cleveland, Ohio, and remained a year, employed as a street-car conductor, and thence to Norwalk, Huron county, Ohio, where he was united in marriage with Mary Howe, on November 26, ,1891. There is one child by their marriage, Estella. May, born December 27, 1894. Mr. and Mrs. Whitehead are members of the Methodist Church, and he is a Republican in politics. He is a man of sterling qualities, a kind husband, a dutiful son devoted to his aged parents, and well-liked and highly respected in the community. JOSEPH R. CLARK (deceased). Among the pioneers of Sandusky county, who by force of character made themselves felt in the community in which they lived, was Joseph R. Clark, of Riley township. Mr. Clark was born in Fayette county, Penn., January 27, 1806. On March 24, 1833, he was married to Miss Emilie Welsh, of Washington county, Penn., and he and his wife migrated to Knox county, Ohio, in September, 1836. In 1848 they removed to Sandusky county, and here remained until 1863, when they took up their residence in Clay county, Ill. After living there three years they returned to Riley township, Sandusky county, where Mr. Clark departed this life, February 6, 1892, his wife preceding him November 26, 1885. Mr. Clark was of Irish descent, his father having been born February '14, 1762, in the Emerald Isle; he died September 12, 1831. His wife, Elizabeth (Ross), was born January 18, 1769, and died January 6, 1840. They were the parents of nine children, all now deceased. Mr. Clark was a man of more than ordinary ability, and he made his influence for good felt throughout the community. He possessed a wonderful memory, great discretion and shrewd judgment, and on account of these prominent COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 359 traits of character was very frequently found on the jury when important cases were to be tried. His clear mind and impartial verdict were so highly appreciated by all who knew him that when he was chosen as a juror neither attorney objected to his sitting. He was for many years justice of the peace in Riley township. A sentence sometimes speaks volumes. One of Mr. Clark's contemporaries says of him: " You need not fear that you will over-estimate the man in writing his sketch." To Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Clark came twelve children, ten of whom are mentioned as follows: William W., Mrs. Cleaver, John and Rebecca (both deceased in infancy), Leander, Joseph (who died at the age of nine years), Lucretia (deceased in infancy), Sarah Ann,. James and Clara. Of those yet living, Leander, who was born June 5, 1839, is unmarried (he served four years during the war of the Rebellion as a member of Company F, Seventy-second O. V. I.); William W., born March 13, 1834, married Sarah M. Bell, February 22, 1862, and to them five children were born, four of whom are now living--Mrs. Jesse Stevens (of Fostoria), Mrs. Jennie Hyter (of Bradner), William E. (who resides in Indiana), and May (who resides in Fostoria). William W. Clark is now extensively engaged in the oil business; he makes his home with his daughter, Mrs. Stevens, of Fostoria, his wife having died some years ago. Mrs. Joseph R. Clark was the daughter of William and Rebecca (Budd) Welsh, the former of whom was born about 1771 and died in 1833; the latter was born about 1778. To them were born eleven children, three of whom are now living. W. H. K. GOSSARD, one of Sandusky county's representative self-made men, is the son of Alvin P. and Mary (Cooley) Gossard, and was born September 8, 1839, - 23 - in Scott township, Sandusky county. His education was acquired at the Ohio Wesleyan University, and, although the ordinary advantages for literary pursuits at that time were meager, Mr. Gossard obtained a liberal training, and for several years was one of the foremost teachers in Sandusky county. On March 31, 1864, our subject was united in marriage with Lucinda Hollopeter, of Seneca county, and soon afterward settled upon eighty acres of wild land in Scott township, on which were no buildings. Here began the struggle with the forest from which he determined to secure a home; success has crowned the efforts of himself and wife, and to-day Mr. Gossard has the original purchase under high cultivation, with excellent buildings and orchards, and to this property he has added another farm the same size. To him and his first wife were born three children: Mary O., born January 10, 1865, who married C. P. Aubert, at that time of Columbus, Ohio, now of Washington State, and she is the mother of three children—Claudius, Thalia and Mabel (Mr. Aubert is superintendent of Port Townsend (Wash.) public schools; for five years prior to her marriage she was teacher in the public schools of Sandusky and Wood counties); William Arthur, born January 30, 1866, who married Miss Clara Shale (he was also a teacher); and Myrtle R., born October 29, 1871, who like her father, brother and older sister, is a teacher, having been engaged in the profession for the past six years. The mother of these children was born August 23, 1843, and was for a number of years a teacher; she died June 2, 1873, and was buried in the Metzger cemetery, and on April 23, 1879, Mr. Gossard was married to Miss Helen M. Canfield, of Wood county, who was born September 26, 1850. She completed her education in Saginaw, Mich., where she was graduated in 1871, and was also a teacher for twelve years, holding some very fine positions, 360 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. among others teaching in the Woodville, Genoa and Bowling Green high schools. To Mr. and Mrs. Gossard have been born three children: Florence A., December 14, 1882; Harry C., March 13, 1884; and Hellen Gladys, October 12, 1890. Silas Sprague Canfield, father of Mrs. Gossard, was born March 13, 1824, in Hamburg, N. Y. The history of the Canfield family, through the researches of Prof. Averill B. Canfield, has been traced back to 1350, when James De Philo, a French Huguenot of Normandy, France, emigrated to England and became a loyal subject of the Crown. In course of time the name was shortened and Anglicized into Cam. Philo, then Campfield, Camfield, and Canfield. From this line came Amon Canfield, who was the great-grandfather of S. S. Canfield. Silas S. Canfield's mother was Phoebe Dart. Mrs. Gossard's mother, Matilda Adaline Wetherell, was born at South Barre, Orleans Co., N. Y., and died February 10, 1885. Mr. Gossard's father, Alvin P. Gossard, was born June 6, 1808, in Ross county, Ohio, and when a young man came to Scott township, Sandusky county, where he purchased a farm. Philip Gossard, his father, was born in America about 1777, of German parentage, and married a Kentucky lady, a Miss Plummer, who was born about 1779. In 1835 Alvin P. Gossard was married to Miss Mary Cooley, of Sandusky county, and they settled on the farm which A. R. Gossard has purchased, and began a life which was prosperous in every way. Mr. Gossard was a great stockman, a shrewd dealer, and in that business made a great deal of money. For a long time he turned off one hundred head or more of cattle each year, which he had fattened, besides the large number purchased and shipped directly. By careful attention to his business he added to the small farm he had originally purchased until he at one time owned Boo acres, which he paid for mainly from his stock business. He was the father of eight children, six of whom are now living: W. H. K. ; P. J. ; A. R. ; Mary, now Mrs. Mc-Ewen, of Wood county; Ann, now Mrs. Sidel, of Fulton county; and Mrs. Inman. The two deceased are Charles and Edmund. Mr. Gossard died May 6, 1887, and was buried in Metzger. cemetery; his wife was born March 1, 1810, in Canada, daughter of Peleg Cooley, who built the first frame house in Fremont, Ohio. Peleg Cooley's grandmother was stolen from Wales when a little child and brought to New York, where she was sold for enough to pay her passage, $18; she was so young she did not remember her father's last name, but simply knew that they called him " John." When in the hands of her captors, on the boat, she heard her father's voice on board the vessel, but dared not speak. JOSEPH M. BUCHMAN, carpenter, of Fremont, Sandusky county, son of Godfrey F. and Magdalena Buchman, was born at Fremont, Ohio, October 3, 1873. He spent his youth in his native city, assisting his father in a store, and attending the parochial school of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, under the preceptorship of Rev. S. Bauer, D. D. ; he graduated from St. Joseph's High School in 1890, and afterward took a course in a business college. With a view to preparing himself for the occupation of contractor and builder, he next served an apprenticeship at the carpenter trade, under the instruction of Christian Vollmer, until March, 1894, since which time he has worked with various other parties. He assisted in the building of the celebrated Hochenedel Block, on Croghan street, Fremont, the Lutheran Church at Gibsonburg, and other buildings of note elsewhere. He is a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, of the Young Men's Society of the B. V. M., and of the Catholic Knights of Ohio, Branch No. 8, and Uniformed Comman- COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 361 dery No. 2. By his habits of industry and thrift, strict attention to business, and fair dealing with his fellow men, Mr. Buchman has laid the foundation of a successful business career. ANTHONY C. NUHFER was born January 16, 1835, and is a son of Nicholas and Elizabeth (Creek) Nuhfer, born, the father on June 2, 1814, in Baiern, Germany, and the mother on March 28, 1810. Nicholas Nuhfer and Elizabeth Creek were united in marriage in 1834, and became the parents of seven children. They came to America in the year of their marriage, and located in Buffalo, N. Y., where they remained a short time. They then removed to Ohio, where he worked on the Maumee and Western Reserve pike for two years; later bought twenty-five acres of land, which he kept a short time and then traded it for forty acres of timber land, put up a two-story house, and cleared the larger part of the land. In 1845 Mr. Nuhfer commenced to preach, and this work he followed until his death; he preached three years in Cleveland, Ohio, and three years in Detroit, Mich., and was elder for eight years. He died January 31, 1888, at the age of seventy-four years and some months, and his widow January 18, 1891, at the age of eighty-one years; they were both buried in Woodville township, Sandusky county. Anthony C. Nuhfer left home at the age of eleven years, went to work for his uncle a couple of years, and then went to school one year. Afterward he learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed for twenty years. He worked at Delaware, Ohio, and at Carrington, Ohio, until his twenty-third year, when, on November 22, 1858, he was united in marriage with Sophia Whipking, who was born August 28, 1837, in Toledo, Ohio. They have become the parents of two children, as follows: Helen E., born May 3, 1861, married George Walter, by whom she had two children—Frank and Carl, and they live in Woodville township; and George A., now a farmer in Woodville township, born June 29, 1864, and united in marriage May 8, 1891, in Fremont, Ohio, with Emma Meford, born January 16, 1866, by whom he has had one child, Clarence, born February 19, 1892. After his marriage Anthony C. Nuhfer settled in Woodville township, Sandusky county, lived there for some time, then traded his property with his father for the farm upon which he now lives. He leased his farm to an oil company, and they put down three wells, all of which have a good flow. He carries on general farming. Mr. Nuhfer has been a member of the German Methodist Episcopal Church since 1854. He has always voted the Republican ticket, is widely and favorably known, and is well liked in the community. JOHN HOUTZ, a prominent and well-to-do agriculturist of Washington township, Sandusky county, whose farm is situated within one mile of the town of Helena, is a native of the county, born October 7, 1855, in the town of Rollersville, third in the order of birth of five children born to John and Elizabeth (Boyer) Houtz. John Houtz, Sr., father of our subject, was one of the oldest settlers of Sandusky county; was a Pennsylvanian by birth, born in 1801 and in 1808 moved to Ohio, settling in Sandusky county, the Indians at the time being friendly neighbors. He was twice married, the first time to Katharina Houtz, who died leaving one child, Mary Ellen Phiester, at present living in Wood county, Ohio. His second wife, Elizabeth (Boyer), became the mother of five children, namely: Cornelius, a farmer, living near Rollersville, Sandusky Co. ; Zacharias, farmer, near his brother Cornelius, both owning a goodly number of acres of prime 362 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. land; John, subject of sketch; Elizabeth, who died in 1893 (she was the wife of Mr. George Tyson, who is now living in Wood county, Ohio); and Sarah, wife of Levi Tyson, a farmer near Rollersville, Ohio (they have two children). The father of this family died in February, 1880, at the age of seventy-nine years; the mother passed away when the subject of this sketch was but a young lad, and he does not remember much regarding her. John Houtz, of whom this sketch more particularly relates, received a liberal education at the winter schools of his native place, from early boyhood assisting his father on the farm, until the time of his marriage. In 188o he purchased the ninety-two acres of land whereon he now lives, and has by industry, thrift and sound judgment made a success, living and toiling on with the bright prospect before him of adding to his possessions. Mr. Houtz was married February 11, 1875, to Miss Mary Anna Baird, daughter of John S. Baird, a farmer of Sandusky county, Ohio, and five children have blessed this union, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Elsie, March 27, 1877; Gary, July 4, 1882; Stella, September 22, 1884; Mabel, August 10, 1887, and Grace, July 13, 1889. In religious faith Mr. and Mrs. Houtz are members of the United Brethren Church. He has on his farm twelve good oil wells, and the property being one of the best oil stands in Sandusky county, he hopes before the close of the year to discover as many more wells. Wide-awake, progressive and genial, Mr. Houtz has insured for himself a personal popularity that in itself is a fair capital for any man traveling the earlier portion of life's highway. GEORGE W. WIRES, a retired fruit-grower, and the oldest living settler of North Bass Island, if not of Ottawa county, was born in Orangeville, Genesee Co., N. Y., October 5, 1809, son of Solomon and Susanna (Beals) Wires, who were both born in Northampton, Mass., and were of Welsh ancestry. They came to Ohio about 1819, locating in Leroy township, which is now in Lake county, and after a residence there of about a year removed to the adjoining township of Painesville. When about ten years old George W. Wires came with his parents to Leroy township, and afterward accompanied them to Painesville, where he received such limited educational advantages as were afforded the youth of those days in the old primitive log schoolhouse. In early life he was bound out to learn the carpenter's trade; but not taking a fancy to the man to whom he was apprenticed he ran away, and hired out as a farm hand with a man named Charles C. Payne, with whom he remained eight years. At the expiration of that time he followed a sea-faring life for about five years, and afterward engaged in various occupations until 1838, when he removed to Kelley's Island, Erie county, where he resided four years. He was next engaged in steamboating on the Mississippi river for about two years, after which he returned to Kelley's Island, and after residing there about four years lived one winter on Point Pelee Island, Canada, in 1849 removing to North Bass Island, which has been the home of the family for forty-five years. On May 16, 1843, George W. Wires was united in marriage, on Kelley's Island, with Susan Fox, who was born in Essex county, Canada, March 12, 1820, and they have had ten children, as follows: Charles C., born June 11, 1845, a farmer residing on Pelee Island; Mary Jane, born October 6, 1846, died August 7, 1863; Adeline A., born September 8, 1848, widow of James Cummings, residing on Pelee Island; Lavina Ellen, born September 30, 1850, the wife of George Hallock, residing on North Bass Island; William Tell, born November 30, 1852, COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 363 residing on Pelee Island; Simon Peter, born September 12, 1854, is superintendent of a fish hatchery at Duluth, Minn. ; George Washington, Jr., born December 9, 1856, residing on North Bass Island; Olive Lenora, born April 22, 1859; Andrew Jackson, born March 16, 1861; and Elsa Rosella, born April 17, 1863. The parents of Mrs. George W. Wires were John and Rachel (Stewart) Fox. Mr. Wires attained his majority during the first administration of President Jackson, and in his political preferences was formerly a Whig, but has been a stanch Republican for many years. CHARLES E. BAKER, M. D. , a prominent and popular physician of Genoa, Ottawa county, is numbered among Ohio's native sons, his birth having occurred in Fairfield county May 27, 1857. His parents, Richard H. and Lucinda (Baker) Baker, were also natives of that county, the former born in April, 1832, the latter on January 2, 1831. They still reside there, honored and respected, the father being numbered among the esteemed and leading agriculturists of the community. For many ,years he has efficiently filled the office of township trustee, and other local positions within the gift of the people, and in all has discharged his duties with a commendable promptness and fidelity. The family numbers but two children: Charles E., subject of this sketch; and Eva M., widow of George Turner, of Fairfield county, Ohio. The great-grandfather, Peter Baker, a native of Maryland, became one of the honored pioneers of Fairfield county, where he located about the year 1799. Dr. Baker acquired his rudimentary education in the district schools of his native township, and then attended the Fairfield Union Academy, from which he was graduated in June, 1877. For about three years thereafter he successfully engaged in teaching school in Fairfield county, after which he took up the study of medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. H. C. Baker, of New Salem, Ohio. He further fitted himself for his chosen calling by prosecuting his studies in the Columbus Medical College, from which he was graduated with honor in March, 1881. A few months afterward he removed to Toledo, where he was connected with the Hospital for the Insane for a period of two and a half years. This added' practical experience to his thorough knowledge of the science of medicine, and made him a skilled physician. In 1884 he came to Genoa, where for a period of more than eleven years he has continuously practiced, being the second oldest physician in the place. By his skill and ability he has succeeded in building up a large and rapidly increasing business, to which merit well entitles him. The Doctor was married in Genoa, May 17, 1894, to Mary M. Humlong, and their union has been blessed with one child, George Lee, born August 17, '1895. Mrs. Baker was born January 9, 1864, in Marshall county, Iowa, received her early education in Genoa, graduating from the high school in 188o, and subsequently attended Berea College, here completing her literary training, after which she was for several years a teacher in the public schools of Genoa. Her parents, William and Emma Humlong, prominent citizens and early settlers of Clay township, Ottawa county, were natives, respectively, of Kentucky and Preble county, Ohio, both born in 1836, the father on May 15, the mother on September 6. William Humlong took a two-years' course in Oberlin College, and was for some years a teacher in Sandusky county. About 1856 he wedded Miss Emma Swann, and they became the parents of four children—John, Ernest, Eugene C. (deceased) and Mary M. (Mrs. Baker). Mr. and Mrs. Humlong settled 364 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. in Genoa, Ottawa county, about the year 186o. He served three years in the war of the Rebellion, and was first lieutenant of Company E, Twelfth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. John Hu mlong (grandfather of Mrs. Baker) was born in 1802 in Kentucky, but was obliged to leave his native State on account of his politics, he being an Abolitionist. He married Mary A. Hollis, who was born December 21, 1812, in Kentucky, and they became the parents of nine children. Robert and Margaret (Crume) Swann, maternal grandparents of Mrs. Baker, were born in 1796 and 1800, respectively, and were married in 1816. Seven children were born to them. After Mr. Swann's death Mrs. Swann for her second husband married Judge Gregg, of Indiana. The Doctor and his wife attend the Presbyterian Church, and occupy a prominent position in social circles. His political views are in accord with the principles of the Democratic party. He is one of the most popular gentlemen in Genoa, and his name is a household word in the homes throughout his section of the county. His genial manner and kindness have won for him hosts of friends among all classes of people. He is indefatigable in his attention to those that are placed under his professional care, and has won golden opinions from friends and patrons, ranking deservedly high among his professional brethren. HUBBARD M. CLEMONS is a representative of one of the early families of Ottawa county, and was born in Danbury township, March 22, 1848. A pretty complete history of the Clemons family was written by Alexander Clemons (deceased), of Marblehead, February, 20, 1874, and embodies the facts which were related to him by his father. " While on their way to school on the Island of Guernsey, two little boys, Isaac and Jacob Clemons, were stolen and placed on board a British man-of-war and brought to this country, being landed at Salem, Mass., probably early in the eighteenth century. Isaac afterward located in the State of Maine, and Jacob in Canada. The former had two sons, Edward and John, and Edward became the father of four sons, who were named Jock, Samuel, Jabez and Frank. These four brothers removed to Madison, Madison Co., N. Y., in 1795. Jock had born to him three sons and three daughters: Samuel, one son and two daughters; Jabez, two sons and three daughters; and Frank, three daughters. Samuel removed to Fredonia, N. Y. David, a son of Jabez, is, I believe, the father of Samuel L. Clemens, better known by the nom de plume of " Mark Twain." John, the brother of Edward, had born to him three sons and three daughters, named respectively, John, Jonathan, Eli, Ruth, Hannah and Eunice. John married Mary McLallan, of Gorham, Maine, and there were born to this union ten children, named: Carry,Andrew, Alexander, John, Eunice, Ai, Elijah, Nancy, Samuel and William. Ruth, a sister of John, married Col. Charles Wadsworth, a son of Gen. Peleg Wadsworth, of Revolutionary war fame, and uncle of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Hannah married William Cotton. Of Eunice I remember nothing. Alexander, son of John, was married to Angeline Hollister, February 11, 1824, and to their union were born fourteen children, as follows: Winslow, Milo, William Alexander, Phineas Harrison, Sarah, Frances, Myron Elijah, Albert Alonzo, Lucian Monroe, Lester Newton, Lucia Louisa, Hubbard Mortimer, Ai J., and a babe unnamed. The mother of John and grandmother of Alexander was Abigail Wetherbee, who lived to be one hundred and four years old, and left one hundred and sixty-four descendants. The following is the record of births COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 365 and deahs in Alexander Clemons' family: Alexander Clemons was born in Hiram, Maine, February I I , 1794, and died March 12, 1886, in Marblehead, Danbury township, Ottawa county. He wedded Almira Angeline Hollister, who was born in Glastonbury, Conn., April 5, 1806, and died at Marblehead, March 24, 1861. Their marriage was celebrated near Sandusky, Ohio, February 11, 1824, and they became the parents of the following children: Winslow, who was born in Sandusky, December 29, 1824; Milo, who was born April 26, 1827, and died March 6, 1888; William Alexander, born December 16, 1829; Phineas Harrison, born February 16, 1832; Sarah, born March 4, 1834; Frances, born April 6, 1836; Myron Elijah, born February 25, 1838; Albert Alonzo, born April 9, 1840; Lucian Monroe, born November 28, 1841; Lester Newton, who was born in 1843, and died March 5, 1846; Lucia Louisa, who was born in December, 1844, and died November 20, 1849; Hubbard Mortimer, born March 22, 1848; Ai J., born June 17, 1850; and there was also one child that died in infancy." The gentleman whose name commences this review was reared to manhood on the old homestead, and acquired his education in the district schools and in the high school of Sandusky City. He afterward engaged in stone quarrying, and subsequently became a member of the firm of Clemons Sons, operating a quarry until 1891. In January of that year he began dealing in coal, wood and ice in Marblehead, and is now doing a good business, having a large and constantly increasing trade. He has always resided in this locality, and is numbered among the representative business men. Mr. Clemons was married in Sandusky City, January 23, 1873, to Miss Almira L., who was born near Troy, N. Y., January 9, 1843, daughter of George J. and Margaret (Hogal) Le Vake, the former a native of Vermont, the latter of New York. To this union have been born six children: Flora B., November 15, 1873; Lucy A., July 11, 1875; Clara Pearl, December 22, 1877; Ralph M., May 17, 1879; Eunice N., July 17, 1882, and Jessie Mabel, August 10, 1885. Mr. Clemons is a very prominent and influential citizen of his native county, and is now efficiently serving as mayor of Marblehead. He has also served as justice of the peace, and for seventeen years has been a member of the board of education. His political support is given the Republican party, and socially he is connected with Peninsula Lodge, No. 607, K. of P., of Lakeside, Ohio. The family attend the Methodist and Congregational Churches, Mr. Clemons holding membership with the former. He is one of the successful business men of the county, and the chief element of his prosperity has been close application to business, coupled with executive ability and foresight. He furnishes a striking example of what may be accomplished by honorable dealing, careful and wise management, and by a business policy that commands the respect of all. He has thus succeeded in attaining an enviable position in the regard of the public, and his prominence is well deserved. A pleasant and genial gentleman, unassuming in manner, he commands the highest esteem of all with whom he has been brought in contact. He is a close observer of men and affairs, and is well-informed on all public questions. HARLEY HOLLISTER ELWELL. The subject of this brief biographical sketch stands prominent among the most successful and influential fruit-growers of Ottawa county. He is a native of the Empire State, born at Meridian, Cayuga county, November 14, 1818. Spending his childhood among the picturesque hills and valleys, 366 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. lakes and streams of that beautiful country, where, at that time, the " Red Man " was not an infrequent visitor at the rural homes as he wandered from his tribe, as though reluctant to yield this paradise to the white usurper. "Mr. Elwell's .father was a New Englander, born in Vermont, where his early years were passed. His mother, Mary (Acker) Elwell, was reared in the Mohawk Valley, as were her par ents, who were of Holland ancestry. Mrs. Elwell's rare gifts of character were supplemented by the practical qualifications of that sturdy people, and admirably fitted her for the trials, and duties of pioneer life. From this excellent . mother, whose early death was an irreparable loss to her family and to society, Mr. Elwell inherited much of the integrity, firmness and decision, which has characterized his course through life. In 1835 he accompanied his father to Lapeer, Mich., where he remained until 1838 when he came to Ohio, locating at Plasterbed, Ottawa County, where he was engaged for a short time. He then bought and occupied a farm in. Sandusky county, and at length settled in Sandusky' City, where he lived. over thirty years, serving as engineer and conductor for different railroad companies. In 1864 he was injured in a railroad collision, and unfitted for the business. In the following year he located in Danbury, Ottawa county, where he now resides. In 184o Mr. Elwell was united in marriage with Miss Alice Lachlison, who was born in England, April 3o, 1820, and died August 9, 1849. The surviving children of this union are Annjemmetta Louise, widow of the late Fletcher Hartshorn, and Abner H. Elwell. The year 1853 was again the nuptial year with Mr. Elwell, when, in the land of his nativity, at the home of E. H. Burnham, Esq., he was married to Miss J. A. Burnham. Of this parentage there are two surviving children: Alice Jennie, now Mrs. T. W. Payne; and Burton H. Elwell. Politically, Mr. Elwell has always been a Republican, unswerving in his support of the cause which that party has espoused. He is one of those men to whom the term " selfmade" is appropriately applied. Though lacking the advantages of college . education., he has obtained much of that most valuable information which comes from observation, experience, and general reading of books and current events, and has made for himself a character and reputation that places him in the highest regard of those who know him best. He is a man of influence, whose good citizenship has never been questioned„and his name deserves an honored place in the history of his adopted country. GEORGE W. GRANT is a representative agriculturist of Washington township, Sandusky county, of which he is a native, his birth having occured on the old home farm on September 21, 1832. David and Rebecca (Rabe) Grant, his parents, were among the earliest settlers in this section of Ohio, coming here when much of the land was still in its primitive condition, and when the work of progress and civilization seemed scarcely begun. They located upon a 160 acre tract of land just two miles east of where. our subject now resides, and the first. election held in Washington township was held. by David Grant, John Berie and James Rose, they being the only voters present in the township, as the record, which is to be found in the town of Lindsey, Sandusky county, shows. David Grant gave the township its name, calling it after Washington county, Penn., his old home. Mrs. Grant died. when our subject was quite young, David Grant passing away not many years afterward, and all record of the ancestry of the family was lost. Our subject remained under the pa- COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 367 rental roof until he had attained his majority, giving his father the benefit of his services. He then started out in life for himself, and whatever success he has achieved is due entirely to his own efforts. He was employed in the neighborhood, scorning no work that would yield him an honest dollar, and thus through industry and prudence he accumulated enough to purchase a farm. He invested his capital in 104 acres of choice land, the place upon which he now resides, and beginning its cultivation at once he has to-day a farm improved with all modern accessories and conveniences, and the richly developed fields indicate the supervision of a progressive and painstaking owner. He also owns property in Gibsonburg, Sandusky county. In 1889 he leased his farm to the Ohio Oil Company, and four wells were put down, yielding about fifty barrels per day, Mr. Grant receiving one-eighth royalty and a bonus of one dollar per acre. He has also been quite extensively engaged in the stock business. In 1860 Mr. Grant was united in marriage with Miss Mahala Moses, who was born in 1844, daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Hess) Moses, and to them have been born nine children, as follows: (1) Silvanus W., who for twelve years was superintendent of the Lindsey and Woodville public schools, and now resides at Tiffin, Ohio, where he is engaged in the mercantile business; he married Dora Cummings, by whom he has one child. (2) Minnie Mowry, who was a teacher, is deceased. (3) Frank follows farming in the State of Michigan. (4) Jacob is employed by the Ohio Oil Company. (5) Estella, who for several years was successfully engaged in teaching, is married to Charles Doty, a contractor and driller of oil wells, of Oil City, Penn. (6) Myrtia is an oil operator. (7) Maud (a teacher) and (8) Elgie are still under the parental roof. (9) Herald is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Grant hold membership with the United Brethren Church, and their honorable, upright life is well worthy of emulation. By his ballot Mr. Grant supports the men and measures of the Republican party, is a stanch advocate of its principles, and on that ticket he has been elected to several township offices, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. He has always lived in the county of his nativity, and those who have known him from boyhood are numbered among his stanchest friends, a fact which indicates a well-spent life. JOHN H. MILLER (deceased), who was recognized as one of the representative and leading citizens of Ottawa county, was the eldest son of Claus and Catherine (Buck) Miller, and was born in New York City, on the 11th of March, 1851. During his early childhood he was brought by his parents to the West, the family locating in Danbury township, Ottawa county, where he acquired his education, his privileges being those afforded by the common schools. Farm labor was familiar to him from his early youth. He aided in the cultivation of the home farm during his boyhood, and when he began life for himself it was as an agriculturist. Afterward he turned his attention to fruit growing in connection with his other work, and became one of the leading farmers and horticulturists of his adopted county. He managed his business affairs on systematic principles, and as the result of his well-directed efforts acquired a handsome competence. Mr. Miller was married on the loth of December, 1877, the lady of his choice being Miss Anna M. S. Brauer, a daughter of John H. and Louisa (Lenkring) Brauer, both of whom were natives of Germany, and on coming to America cast their lot with the early settlers of Danbury township, Ottawa county. The father is still living in that locality, but the mother died on the 14th of Novembe 368 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 1875. Mrs. Miller was born in Danbury township, October 14, 1854, and by her marriage became the mother of two children—Henry E., born October 25, 1878; and Reuben B., born June 27, 1887. At the time of his death, Mr. Miller was filling the office of postmaster at Piccolo. He was regarded as a public-spirited and progressive citizen, and took an active interest in all that pertained to the welfare of the community, and its upbuilding. He passed away on the 20th of April, 1894, and his death was mourned by a large circle of friends and acquaintances, as well as by his immediate family. He had ever lived so as to merit the highest respect and confidence of those with whom he came in contact, and he left to his family the priceless heritage of a good name. CLAUS BUCK (deceased) was one of the most prominent and highly-respected residents of Danbury township, a wide-awake, progressive citizen, taking an active part in all matters tending to advance the interests of the county generally. He was born in Basdahl, Amt Bremervorde, Germany, April 6, 1809, and was educated in his native land. When a young man of twenty-seven years he left his native village for America, and, after a tempestuous voyage of eleven weeks, reached New York City, January I, 1836. Later in the same month he started for Ohio, traveling by stage and on foot, and on February 19, 1836, after a tedious and tiresome journey of three weeks he reached the southern shore of the Peninsula, being one of the seven original German settlers of Danbury township, all of whom preceded him to the grave. Here in the then vast wilderness, Mr. Buck made himself a home, engaging in agricultural pursuits, and during his fifty-eight years of residence in Danbury town ship, Ottawa county, he saw many wonderful changes in his adopted country, and in all possible ways aided in the development of his resident community. Ohio was at that time considered the " Far West." The Indians still roamed in Ottawa county, and this beautiful Peninsula was a forest awaiting civilization. The pioneer's life at the best is one of toil. None but those who have passed through a like experience can ever realize the hardships and privations of such a life, and the present generation have but little idea of the difficulties and trials their forefathers, and such men as the subject of this sketch, were obliged to undergo in those early days in order to bring this country to its present state of prosperity and perfection. On January 5, 1844, Mr. Buck was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Brauer, who was born in Fredricksdorf, Germany, September 29, 1821, a daughter of Frederick and Christina Brauer. In 1842 she came to America with her father, her mother having passed away in the land of her nativity two years previous. For more than fifty years she was the faithful companion arid helpmeet of Mr. Buck, and still survives him, now at the advanced age of seventy-four years. Their union was blessed with but one child, a daughter—Christiana M.—who was born March 27, 1845, and who, on the 2nd of May, 1866, was united in marriage with Henry H. Lullman. She died January 1, 1882, leaving two daughters—Regina R. and Rebecca—who still reside with their grandmother, caring for her during her declining years. Mr. Buck was an earnest worker in the Lutheran Church, and was a liberal contributor to both the old church and the handsome and imposing edifice that now adorns the township. He was a consistent member of the organization, as are his granddaughters and widow. For many years he was a great sufferer, and for two years prior to his death was un- COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 369 able to leave his room. He passed peacefully away at one o'clock on the morning of December 20, 1894, at the advanced age of eighty-five years, eight months and fourteen days, sadly mourned by his relatives and a large circle of friends and acquaintances, who loved and revered him for his many noble traits of character and unswerving integrity. He died as he, lived, and his end was like the coming into harbor of a stately ship after a long and successful voyage. He looked death in the face with that calmness and dignity, that serene certainty that it was a change for the better which Christian faith, such as he possessed, could alone inspire. He has pased away from among his old friends and companions in life, but his memory will long be cherished by all who knew him. HENRY H. LULLMAN. Prominent among Danbury township's prosperous citizens we find Henry H. Lullman, who was born April 8, 1845, in New York City. His parents, John and Martha (Ahlers) Lullman, came to this country about 1840, from Bremen, Germany, and settled in New York City, where the father engaged in the grocery business. On July 28, 1848, the mother died at the early age of twenty-five, and three years later, July 20, 1851, the father also passed away, aged thirty-six years. Thus early in life the subject of our sketch was left an orphan, and when nine years old he came to Ohio to make his home with his uncle, Henry Lullman, who was one of the pioneer settlers of Danbury township, Ottawa county, having located on the Peninsula in February, 1845. For thirty-four years he resided: continuously in the township, ending his life's labors April 14, 1879. His wife, Gacia Lullman, died December 18, 1882. Henry H. Lullman spent his early boyhood days upon his uncle's farm, and acquired his education in the district schools of the neighborhood. The occupation to which he was reared has been his life work, and in addition to agricultural pursuits he has for the past fifteen years engaged extensively in fruit growing. Mr. Lullman was married in Danbury township, May 2, 1866, to Miss Christiana M. Buck, who was born March 27, 1845, and was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Claus Buck, honored pioners of this locality. This union was blessed with three children: Regina R., born July 31, 1868; C. Henry, born April 16, 1871, who died in infancy, and Rebecca C., born April 1, 1875. Mrs. Lullman died January 1, 1882, at Sandusky, Ohio, after an illness of several years, aged thirty-six years, nine months and four days. On August 28, 1888, Mr. Lull-man was again married, this time to Miss Emma Wuhrman, who was born September 3, 1857, daughter of Henry and Amelia Wuhrman, who migrated to Ohio in 1847. Mr. Lullman has manifested great interest in the affairs of the township, always endeavoring to promote the general welfare of the community. He has held various local offices at .different times—that of treasurer for six years and clerk for fifteen years. No higher testimonial of his efficient services can be given than his long continuance in office. In religious belief Mr. Lullman and all the members of his family are Lutherans, and interested in everything pertaining to the welfare of that Church. WILLIAM H. ALTHOFF, publisher and proprietor of The Ottawa County News Democrat, is a native of Ohio born November 30, 1861, in the, city of Dayton, only son of F. M. and Jennie E. (Clark) Althoff. He was married at Plasterbed, October 7, 1886, to Imogene, daughter of J. W. and Elizabeth (Smith) Lockwood, and four children have been the result of this 370 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. union, namely: Lina, born August 9, 1887; William L. , born February 28, 1890, died June 26, 1890; Herbert A., born September 29, 1892; and Amos C., born January 26, 1895. The old Port Clinton Bulletin, was purchased by Mr. Althoff in April, 1892. The Bulletin was merged into the Democrat, which was consolidated with the News in 1895. The News was established in April, 1865, by George R. Clark, an uncle of the subject of this sketch. HENRY J. MILLER. This work would not be complete unless it contained some account of the pioneers whose lives and labors were given to make possible the prosperity, wealth and comfort of to-day. In the early history of Ottawa county no man took a more prominent part or did more to mold and influence the work of his time than did the subject of this sketch. Henry J. Miller was born May 18, 1812, in the village of Putnam (now Zanesville), Ohio. His father, William Miller (born 1777, died at the home of his son in 1840, a member of a family of ten children), emigrated from Columbia county, N. Y., to Ohio soon after the organization of the State. He raised and commanded a company of volunteers in the war of 1812. Henry J. came to Ottawa county (then a part of Huron) in 1828, buying a small farm of the government. Upon the organization of Ottawa county he was appointed sheriff, and served until the first election. After an interval of one term he was twice elected, and served two terms in that capacity. After the expiration of his term as sheriff he was three times elected, and served nine years as justice of the peace of his township. He was one of the first to propose the organization of the Ottawa County Agricultural Society, and served as its first president, and for several years thereafter. He was prominent in every enterprise which had for its object the improvement of his county, and bettering the condition of her citizens. Mr. Miller was married November 25, 1836, to Susan Wonnell, who came to Ottawa county with her parents from Worcester county, Maryland, in 1828. Of this union six children were born as follows: (1 ) Maria was born January 15, 1838, became the wife of William Sloan, and is now deceased. (2) Wilson S. was born May 9 1839, (a sketch of whom appears elsewhere). (3) George W., born December 28, 1840, died January 23, 1864, of wounds received while defending his country in the Civil war; he was a member of the First Ohio Sharpshooters. (4) William, a sketch of whom follows this, was born February 4, 1844. (5) James H. , born March 15, 1846, was a prominent farmer of Portage township, and died at the age of forty-six. (6) Permelia A., born June 10, 1848, became the wife of Silas A. Hardy. During the war of the Rebellion Mr. Miller did valiant service in his country's cause. Three of his sons served in the army. Too old to go to the front himself, he was faithful in looking after his country's defenders at home. The noble work of these older men during the war has never received the recognition its importance deserves. Mr. Miller united with the Methodist Episcopal Church and helped, in 1842, to organize the first society of that denomination in the county. He remained an active member of that society until his death, which occurred November 12, 1874. WILLIAM MILLER. Among the leading residents of Ottawa county none are more deserving of representation in this volume than the gentleman whose name opens this review, and who is numbered among the valued citizens of this cornmunity, as well as among the prominent COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 371 fruit growers and farmers of Portage township. He was born in that township, February 4, 1844, and is a son of Henry J. and Susan (Wonnell) Miller, a sketch of whom appears above. Mr. Miller acquired his education in the district schools near his home, and subsequently for two years pursued his studies in Baldwin University, of Berea, Ohio. He then turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, which he has since continuously followed. He was the first in his township to grow peaches for market, planting his first orchard in 1868, and is at present quite extensively engaged in that branch of fruit growing. He thoroughly understands his business, and his capable management and fair and honorable dealing have brought to him a well-deserved success. During the war of the Rebellion he served as a private in Company K, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth regiment, Ohio Infantry. On January 12, 1875, he was married to Miss Eliza Petitt Alexander, of Marblehead, Ohio, who was born in Piqua, Ohio, June 23, 1850, a daughter of David Alexander (a sketch of whom follows) and Harriet (Petitt) Alexander. Two children grace this union: Henry A., born March 7, 1877; and Mary F., born December 20, 1879. The parents of Mrs. Miller were both natives of Pennsylvania. The subject of this sketch has filled the office of director of the County Agricultural Society for several years. He was one of the organizers of the Peninsula Farmers and Fruit Growers Club, which existed for several years, and also assisted in organizing the first Farmers Institute in the county, acting as its president for two years. He is a; member of the Ad Interim Committee of the State Horticultural Society; is the present master of the Grange: and does all in his power for the advancement of the farming interests of his locality. For ten consecutive years he has been a member of the township school board, and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend. He is an ardent supporter of the Republican party, and in 1892 was nominated by the Republicans of the Ninth Congressional District as candidate for Presidential elector, was elected a member of the electoral college, and cast his vote for President Harrison. In his religious views he is a Methodist. His life has not been one of excitement, being quietly passed in devotion to his business enterprises;, yet it is not without its points of interest as is that of every man who faithfully performs his duty to his country, his neighbor and himself. DAVID ALEXANDER (deceased), father of Mrs. Eliza P. Miller, was born at New London, Chester Co., Penn., July 31, 1812, and came to Ohio in 1833, locating first at Dayton, later at Piqua. Here he was actively engaged in business for a number of years. In 1843-44 he represented Miami county in the Ohio Legislature. About that time he removed to Columbus, and for several years was engaged in the home office of the Columbus Insurance Co. In 1854 he became general agent for the West of the Hartford Fire Insurance Co., removing to Chicago in 1861. In 1863 failing health compelled him to resign his position, and in order to obtain rest and recreation he came to the Lake Erie islands. Impressed with the natural beauty and advantages of the locality, he bought a farm on the Peninsula, which for thirty years was his home. During the administration of President Grant, Mr. Alexander was appointed Examiner of National Banks, and spent four years in, government employ, his territory embracing all of New York State (except the city), Ohio, Indiana and a part of Virginia. Mr. Alexander early saw the superior advantages of the Peninsula for fruit growing, and from the first made that the only product of his farm. He was the first on the Peninsula to plant peaches largely for market, and to see, as pro- 372 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. phesied by him, that entire section of country covered with peach orchards. He was called from earth December 23, 1894. Though of a retiring disposition, always seeking to avoid publicity, he took an active interest in public affairs, and few men were better posted in the doings of the day. In early life he united with the Presbyterian Church, and always lived a consistent Christian life. He assisted in organizing the Congregational Church on the Peninsula, and was always one of its faithful supporters. Mr. Alexander was twice married; first time to Martha A. Graham, of Chester county, Penn., but she died in 1844, leaving one son, Robert Graham Alexander, who died in Chicago in 1862, in his twenty-second year. In 1849, for his second wife, Mr. Alexander married Harriet R. Petitt, of Piqua, who, with three daughters (Mrs. William Miller, of Gypsum, Mrs. S. R. Gill, of Lakeside, and Mrs. J. W. Benschoter, of Bowling Green) and one son. (S. P. Alexander), survives him. GEORGE F. MEYER. The subject of this sketch, who has been for nearly twenty-one years a resident of Port Clinton, Ottawa county, is a prosperous cigar manufacturer, in his business combining the German thrift and industry with American push and enterprise. He is a native of Hanover, Germany, born September 9, 1840. Mr. Meyer's parents were both natives of Germany, the father, H. Meyer, born in Lansberger, Hanover, in 1805, and the mother, Mary (Walsen) Meyer, in Bad Rehburg, in 1803; the former died in 1868, and the latter in 1874. The father, who was a man of much intelligence and ability, was a surgeon, and practiced his profession from 1825 until his death. He served during the Franco-Prussian war. He was a member of the Lutheran Church. This worthy couple had eight children, as follows: William, who died after coming to America; August, who lives at Bremen, Germany, and is engaged in the cigar business; George F., our subject; Charles, living in Zulingen, Germany; Frederick, who resides in Bremen, Germany; Caroline, a widow, residing in Sandusky; Dorritt, deceased; and Augusta, who married a Mr. Dinklage. The maternal grandfather of our subject was a baker by trade, and also held the office of postmaster at Bad Rehburg, a position which has been handed down in the family from generation to generation until the present time. Others of the connection are also engaged in the postal service. The paternal grandfather, Henry Meyer, was born at Lansberger on the Weser, and was a farmer by occupation. Our subject attended school in his native country until fourteen years old, and when eighteen years of age, as is the custom in Germany, he entered the army and served over seven years. In all this time his regiment was not ordered to the front, but he saw enough of a soldier's life to satisfy him, without remaining longer in service. After leaving the army he learned the cigar business, and in 1867 came to America, locating first in the city of Sandusky, Ohio, and there remaining until 1874, when he removed to Port Clinton. Since that time he has carried on business for himself. He employs from six to eight men all the time, and has a large trade in the surrounding country; he also has a fruit farm, etc. Mr. Meyer was first married in Sandusky, on October 10, 1868, to Miss Julia Luedecke, by whom he had one child, Gustave, who is engaged in business in Cleveland, Ohio. The mother died September 19, 1871, at Sandusky, Ohio, and on September 28, 1872, Mr. Meyer was again married, this time to Miss Louisa Bolte, who was born in Hanover. They have two children: George, a clerk in the German-American COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 373 Bank of Port Clinton, in which his father is a stockholder; and Lillie. Mr. Meyer has a fine fruit farm at Graytown, this State, on which he raises quinces, pears and plums; he also owns property in Port Clinton. In politics, he is a Democrat, and in religious faith is a member of the Lutheran Church; socially, he belongs to the I. O. O. F. He is a public-spirited citizen, always ready to aid any project tending to the welfare of his town and county. ANTON YOUNG, one of the oldest pioneers, and also one of the prominent agriculturists of Allen township, Ottawa county, was born in Germany, February 2, 1823, near the banks of the beautiful river Rhine, his parents being John and Kate (Diefenthaler) Young, also natives of Germany. The early years of our subject were spent in school in his native province, and he assisted his father on the farm until he was nineteen years of age. At that time he was drafted into the army, being required to learn the science of warfare, having to drill and perform all military duties and receiving a furlough every six months. In 1849, when the revolution broke out in his native land, he was called upon to take up arms in defense of the government, and served until peace was restored in 1850, when he received his discharge. He then returned home and worked on his father's farm, and also for other parties until 1852. In March of that year he emigrated to this country, and came to Ohio, locating in Toledo, .where he was married and remained for a short time. In 1853, Mr. Young came to Allen township, then a portion of Clay township, Ottawa county, where he bought sixty-five acres of land, most of which was covered with timber, and on which he built a log cabin. He immediately began clearing his land, planting, as fast as the trees were removed, small patches of corn, potatoes, etc., with which to support his family. After several years of hard toil he succeeded in converting the place into a well-cultivated farm, and erected a commodious dwelling house with large barn and other outbuildings, the property now being considered among the finest in Allen township. In 1863 Mr. Young was drafted into the Union army, but not feeling willing to leave his wife and young family, he paid $300 to be exempted. He afterward had his money returned to him, as the draft was not a legal one. In 1864 he was again drafted, but did not have to answer the call. In 1865, when the last call for volunteers was made, Mr. Young enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty-ninth Ohio Infantry, and was sent to Nashville, Tenn. It so happened that he was not in any engagement, and on October 9, of the same year, he received his discharge and returned home. Since that time he has lived upon his farm, where with his good wife he is passing the evening of his days in peace and happiness. Mr. Young was married, January 30, 1853, at Toledo, to Mary Kohler, daughter of Philip Kohler, a farmer, who was of German birth. To this union nine children were born, of whom eight are living, viz. : John, born July 15, 1855, is a farmer in Allen township; he was married in June, 1887, to Mary, daughter of Hiram Overbeck, a farmer of Wood county, and they have two children, Herman, born September 1, 1888, and Eva K., born November I, 1891. Christina Young was born April 29, 1858, and is living at home with her parents. George J. was born November 2, 186o. Philip, February 17, 1863. Andrew, May 20, 1865. Edwin, July 20, 1867. Katie, July I, 187o, and Henry, May to, 1873. All of these were educated in the public schools of Allen township, and are at home with their parents. Mary, who was 374 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. born February 2, 1854, died July 28 of the same year. John Young, the father of our subject, was born in Germany, where he was a farmer. He was married in 1819 to Katie Diefenthaler, and five children have blessed their union, viz. : Philip, George, Anton, Jacob (who is a farmer in Wood county, this State) and Susan (who died in Germany when a child). Philip Kohler, father of Mrs. Young, was born in Germany, where he was married, and he became the father of four children, viz. : John Philip, who died in Toledo; Barbara, the wife of John Young, of Toledo; Kate, who died when a child in Germany, and Mary, the wife of our subject. The father died in Germany, and the widow married Philip Diefenthaler, with whom she came to this country, locating in Wood county, Ohio. By this second marriage a family of four children was born: Maggie, who died in Germany; Christiana M., wife of John Bush, a farmer in Wood county; and Jacob and Anthona, both of whom are farmers in Wood county. The mother died in that county in 1864. Our subject held the office of school director in Allen township for several years. In politics he is a Republican, and the family are members of the Evangelical Church. DANIEL V. FLUMERFELT. The subject of this sketch disclaims the possession of any qualities that entitle him to the mention which his friends believe should be made of him; yet it is in no spirit of adulation when we say that his busy and active life is illustrative of the success that attends honest, well-directed endeavor, industry and adherence to duty. " Uncle Dan," as he is everywhere known, is one of those men to whom the trite term " self-made " is appropriately applied. Though lacking the advantages of a higher education in college, he has absorbed much from those valuable instructors—experience and observation. Those who know Mr. Flumerfelt well and intimately need no explanation about him. To strangers, however, it is sufficient to say that he has inherited from his father a great deal of his looks and personal appearance, but more so his tenacity and perseverance. His sound judgment and good business capacity were shown in many instances while living in Seneca county, especially, in the building of the " Flumerfelt bridge," which is a fair monument of his perseverance and sagacity. As early as 1836 he had assisted, as carpenter, in putting up the frame work of the Stem's and the Hedge's mills, near Green Spring, Ohio, which were patronized by pioneer farmers for many miles around. His native pluck was shown, later, in litigation with a railroad company, whose opposition he contested to the supreme court, securing a verdict in his favor in each court in which the case was tried. The father of our subject, Cornelius Flumerfelt, was born in New Jersey July 10, 1774, in Sussex county, and was reared on a farm. In 1804 he was married to Catharine Christman. On the second day of May, 1826, they started for Ohio. It took them four weeks to reach Seneca county. He bought the west half of the southwest quarter of Section 16, in Pleasant township. Mr. Daniel Rice had a lease on land from the commissioners of Sandusky county, which he also bought. Mr. Rice had built a log cabin, and Mr. Flumerfelt moved into that. Mr. Flumerfelt was twice married. There were six children of the second marriage, of whom Daniel V., our subject, was second, and is the only one of them now living. Cornelius Flumerfelt was a fine specimen of' well-developed physical manhood. He was six feet tall, of fair complexion, had blue eyes, and was very straight and well-proportioned. He was of purely German type, very firm in his convictions, slow of