COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 575 sively throughout the United States, and on March 9, 1892, he came to Ottawa county, Ohio, taking up his residence in Limestone, where since 1892 he has been mail agent, and he is comfortably situated. In Benton township and vicinity he enjoys the respect of all who know him as a useful citizen; socially, he is also well-known, holding membership with George Fields Post No. 168, G. A. R., in which he is chaplain, is a member of Benton Grange, in which he is also chaplain; and of the Soldiers Union of Ottawa county. OLIVER J. TRUE, retired railroad contractor and builder, whose home has been in Port Clinton, Ottawa county, since 1864, is a native of New York State, born June 12, 1827, in the city of Batavia. He was the only son of Oliver and Sarah (Marvin) True, both New Englanders by birth, the former of whom died in the State of New York, the latter in Minnesota. Our subject received a liberal education at the public schools of and seminary in Norwalk, Ohio, after which he served an apprenticeship to the carpenter's trade under John Randolph. Completing same at the age of twenty-two, he commenced railroad work, bridge building on the Junction railroad, now the northern division of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railroad. He constructed the first bridge across Sandusky Bay, rebuilt it in 1871, and again in 1880; in fact he was connected with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railroad as bridge builder and road master, between Cleveland and Toledo, for about thirty-three years, or until 1883, when he retired from the service. His home in Port Clinton is situated in the corner of a large fruit farm containing apple and peach trees in abundance, and 4,000 quince trees. In his fraternal affiliations he is a thirty-sec ond-degree Freemason; in politics a stanch Democrat. On May 15, 1849, Mr. True was married to Miss Eunice Sanderson, who was born March 12, 1829, at Brookfield, Vt., daughter of Ozias and Olive (Jefferson) Sanderson, the former of whom died in Indiana, the latter in Berlin Heights, Ohio. To this union came children as follows: Charles C., born February 18, 185o; he is a practicing physician in Cleveland, Ohio, and professor of diseases of the nervous system in the Cleveland Medical College. Willis C., born December 29, 1852, died March 17, 1853. Adaleta, born July 14, 1854, died April is, 1894. Allen Jay is spoken of farther on. Edwin M., born August 18, 1861, is engaged in the milling business in Port Clinton, Ohio. George A. is also spoken of below. John W., born January 20, 1869, died December 22, 1890. Allen Jay True was born in Sandusky City, Ohio, September 6, 1857, He attended the common schools of Port Clinton, after which he commenced an apprenticeship in the repair works of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railroad. After some three years so engaged he learned telegraphy on the same road, which branch of the service he followed some years, part of the time as night operator at Danbury, Ottawa county, and was then (in 1879) promoted to assistant road master and tie and lumber inspector, on the Toledo division of the road. In 1884 he left the railroad, and buying out a general fire insurance business at Peru, Ind., he removed thither, there remaining till 1888, when he sold out, and returning to Port Clinton took charge of the agency for Ottawa county of the Ohio Farmers Insurance Co., in which he has since been successfully engaged, having the leading insurance business in the county. In January, 1885, Allen J. True was married to Miss Clara B. Johnson, who was born at Port Clinton, Ohio, in December, 1858, and two 576 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. children have been born to them: John A. and Mary Eunice. Socially Mr. True is a Knight Templar, and has been master of 0. H. Perry Lodge, Port Clinton, for a number of years. Politically he is a Democrat. GEORGE A. TRUE was born December 31, 1865, at Port Clinton, Ohio, the public and high schools of which city he attended, graduating from the latter in the spring of 1886, in the fall of which year he entered the high school at Ann Arbor, Mich., remaining there one winter. In the following spring and summer, having returned to Port Clinton, he did some work in the interests of the Ohio Farmers Insurance Co., and in the fall of the same year (1887) he commenced teaching the Port Clinton High School, as principal, a position he held some two years. In 1890 he was appointed county school examiner, an incumbency he has since filled, and, same year, commenced reading law in the office of T. J. Marshall, attorney at law, Port Clinton. After about a year he entered the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, graduated therefrom in the spring of 1893; was admitted to the bar, in Ohio, in March, same year, and in Michigan in the following June. In August, 1893, he opened an office in Port Clinton for the general practice of law, was elected city solicitor in the spring of 1895, and still holds that office. In politics Mr. True is a Democrat. He has not yet enlisted in the noble army of benedicts, preferring to disport himself for some time longer, at least, in the Arcadian fields of single-blessedness. GEORGE A. BEEBE, one of the most prominent and successful fruit growers and highly respected citizens of Danbury township, Ottawa county, was born in Columbia township, Lorain Co., Ohio, January 3, 1836, to Willis and Sally (Bronson) Beebe, the former a native of the Empire State, the latter of Lorain county, Ohio. Our subject received an elementary education in the schools of his native township, .after which he attended Oberlin College, at Oberlin, Ohio, and in early life he learned the carpenter's trade, which occupation he followed until 1861. In October of that year Mr. Beebe became a member of Company E, Sixty-fifth O. V. I., and with his regiment took part in many important engagements noticeable among which were the battles of Shiloh, Chickamauga, Buzzard Roost Mountain and Resaca. For four years he valiantly aided in the defense of his country, being mustered out of service at Nashville, Tenn., in November, 1865, after which he returned to Columbia township, Lorain county. In the winter of 1865 Mr. Beebe went to Middletown, Conn., where, March 13, 1866, he married Miss Selina L. Tryon, a daughter of Joseph and Lucetta Tryon, and their union has been blessed with two children: Gertrude L., born May 27, 1867, now teaching school in Middletown, Conn.; and T. Ervin, born January 2, 1870, now a civil engineer in Cleveland, Ohio. Shortly after his marriage, in 1866, Mr. Beebe located in Danbury township, Ottawa county, and for almost thirty years has been one of its most progressive and honored residents. Of late years he has been extensively engaged in fruit culture, and thoroughly understands that business as well as farming in all its details, to which fact his well-cultivated fields, productive orchards and neat surroundings bear ample evidence. In all his duties of husband, father and neighbor he occupies a high place in the esteem of his fellow citizens. He has never been a seeker after public office, but has efficiently filled the position of trustee of his township for several terms. Socially, he belongs to O. H. Perry Lodge, No. 241, F. & A. M., and I. B. Richards Post, No. 454, G. A. R. In political preferences he is a Republican, and both COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 577 he and his wife are consistent members of the Congregational Church, and at the organization of the Church in March, 1873, in his township, he was elected clerk of the Church, and has filled that position till the present time. Willis Beebe, the father of our subject, was born March 16, 1806, and was a son of Abram Beebe and grandson of Gera Beebe, the latter of whom was a lieutenant in the Colonial army during the Revolutionary war. The father located in Danbury township in 1866, with his sons Sherlock, George A., and Bela B., and became an honored and revered citizen of the community, but did not live long to enjoy his home, dying April 25, 1868. In Lorain county, Ohio, March 18, 1827, he wedded Miss Sally Bronson, whose birth occurred November 11, 18 to. She passed away October 4, 1889. By this union nine children were born, six of whom are still living, namely: Sherlock D., residing at Lakeside, Danbury township; George A., subject of this sketch; Mary B., widow of Norris C. North, of Marshall, Minn. ; Miles A., the oldest letter carrier in the Cleveland post office department, and the second oldest in the United States; Eva B., wife of Frank G. Lee, of Lakeside, Danbury township; and Bela B., who enlisted in the One Hundred and Eleventh O. V. I., in 1862, and served during the war. Sherlock Beebe, the oldest living member of the family, is a leading fruit grower of Danbury township; his orchard adjoining that of our subject. He was born in Liverpool, Medina Co., Ohio, June 12, 1831, and received the advantages of a very liberal education in the select schools of his native township. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, and also engaged in fishing; but of late years his entire attention has been given to fruit culture, and his fine orchards bear evidence of the care, thrift and sound judgment of the owner, who justly enjoys the good will and confidence of his neighbors. He was married June 12, 1862, in Xenia, Greene Co., Ohio, to Miss Louisa L. Stowe, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Stowe, but she was called to her final rest on the first of the following September. He is an earnest supporter of the Republican party, and has served as clerk of Columbia township one term, and for six years was justice of the peace in Danbury township; at the organization of the Congregational Church in Danbury township, he was chosen as one of its deacons, and has held that office in the church continuousiy till the present time. FRANK BROWN, a practical farmer and fisherman, and a popular and respected resident of Carroll township, Ottawa county, was born in Venice, Erie Co., Ohio, August 11, 1856, and is a son of Daniel and Melissa J. (James) Brown. He was but eight years old when he accompanied his parents to Carroll township, and when his farm- duties would permit he attended the district schools of the townships wherein his youthful days were spent. With the exception of two years devoted to railroading, his whole life has been given to agricultural pursuits and to fishing. At Port Clinton, Ottawa county, on January 20, 1880, Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Goodside, who was born near Dubuque, Iowa, August 13, 1859, and is one of a family of nine children born to William and Minnie Goodside, seven of whom are yet living: William, of Bogart, Erie Co., Ohio; Minnie, wife of our subject; Frank, of Detroit, Mich. ; and Charles, Andrew, Clelia and Eugene, of Sandusky City, Ohio. Her parents located in Erie county, Ohio, in 1861, where they still reside. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Brown were four children: Alvira, born January 16, 1881; Bertha, born June 16, 1882; Nettie G., born March 22, 1884, 578 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. and died March 2, 1894; and George R., born April 4, 1885. Socially, Mr. Brown is a prominent member of the Knights of the Maccabees, while politically he is an ardent adherent of the men and measures of the Democratic party, and for two terms served as township clerk. Though still a young man, he has won for himself a name and standing in the community in which he resides, that might well be envied by many an older man. He well deserves the prosperity that has rewarded his years of toil, and his hospitality and cheering manner, combined with sterling worth, have won for him a host of friends. PHILLIP VROMAN, one of the most progressive and highly-esteemed residents, as well as the oldest living settler of Put in Bay Island, Ottawa county, and a prominent and successful fruit grower, whose surroundings indicate thrift, enterprise and good management, was born in Otsego county, N. Y., August 22, 1823, and is a son of John and Nancy (Becker) Vroman, both of whom were natives of New York State. Their parents, who were born in Germany, located in New York in an early day in the history of that State, and their respective fathers were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. When only nine years of age our subject removed to Canada, where for a few years he resided with his father's brother. He then went to what is now Lake county, Ohio, where he obtained a limited education, and after leaving school he sailed upon the lakes for several years. On July 1, 1844, he located in Put in Bay township, Ottawa county, and for over fifty years has been a continuous resident of that Island, foremost in all works pertaining to its improvement, and giving of his time and means toward all interests calculated to promote the general welfare. Shortly after his arrival he he purchased100 acres of land, erected a substantial home, and for many years engaged in agricultural pursuits and fishing for a livelihood; but of late years his attention has been more particularly. devoted to fruit culture—his orchards and vineyards being among the finest on the island, on which he set. the first vineyard. Mr. Vroman was married in Tiffin, Ohio, May 2, 1847, to Miss Amelia Luce, a daughter of Joshua and Electa (Sanderson) Luce. She was born in Oxford, Erie Co., Ohio, March 31, 1829, and is of English and Welsh lineage. The family born of this marriage numbers four sons: Daniel P., born in Sandusky City, Ohio, April 21, 1848, was united in marriage in Cincinnati November I, 1871, to Alice Bertrand, and now resides on Put in Bay Island. Frank, born at Groton Center, Ohio, July 5, 1854, died June 23, 1866. George Henry, born at Put in Bay February 29, I 86o, was married on the Island November 19, 1891, and now has two children—Frank Leslie, born November 3o, 1892; and Erma May, born September 7, 1894; with his family he now resides on the old homestead; he had been previously married, his first union being with Lottie Reynolds, by whom he had two children—Edna Amelia, born in January, 1881; and Florence, born February 22, 1883. The fourth son, Solomon Welden, was born at Put in Bay December 3o, 187o, and died February 6, 1891. Mr. Vroman purchased the first land ever sold on Put in Bay Island, and also erected the first schoolhouse on the Island. He has been treasurer of the township since its formation, and has been a prominent factor in the development of this region, and in making the Island what it is to-day, one of the most highly cultivated localities in northern Ohio. Though well advanced in years, he still takes an active part in all matters that will add to its attraction. In politics he J affiliates with the Republican party. He COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 579 is an active member of the Reformed Episcopal Church, and superintendent of the Sunday-school, and enjoys a reputation that is above reproach. He and his family have the respect and confidence of every resident of the county with whom they are acquainted, and in this volume well deserve representation. JOHN McKENZIE is a prominent business man of Lakeside, Ottawa county, proprietor of livery and transfer stables. Being well known in this community, we feel assured that the record of his life will prove of interest to many of our readers and gladly give it a place in this volume. He was born in Paisley, Scotland, July 12, 1841, and is a son of Neil and Mary McKenzie, both of whom were natives of the Highlands of Scotland. When he was only three weeks old his mother died, and while still a young child he went with his father and an aunt, and two brothers of the latter, to Canada. They located in Hamilton, Ontario, where our subject received a common-school education. His father died leaving him an orphan when he was only seven years of age. On the completion of his school life, John McKenzie drove a stage for about five years, and afterward engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1865 he removed to Ohio, settling near Norwalk, in Huron county, where he carried on farming, and worked in a sawmill for about three years, then spent a similar period in fishing in Lake Erie, at Huron. In 1871 he came to Lakeside, Ohio, where he has since resided, and for twenty-two consecutive years he has held the position of dock master. He has also had extensive business relations, and has been a prominent official. On November 6, 1894, he was elected county commissioner on the Republican ticket, and has also filled the office of school director in Danbury township, Ottawa county, for several years. On January 7, 1871, Mr. McKenzie was united in marriage with Miss Martha, daughter of Bishop and Permelia Knapp, natives of the Empire State, who settled in Huron county, Ohio, at an early day in its history. They located first in Bronson township, where they resided for many years, and then removed to Milan, going thence to Norwalk. The father died about 1866, the mother in October, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. McKenzie have four children: Fenie was the first child born in Lakeside, the natal day being February 23, 1874; the others are Daniel B., born November 17, 1875; Margery Aiken, born August 17, 1879; and John H., born April 24, 1883. The family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. In his political views, Mr. McKenzie is a Republican, and, socially, is connected with Peninsular Lodge, No. 607, K. of P. He is recognized as one of the representative and progressive men of Ottawa county, his character is above reproach, and he and his family are highly esteemed residents of Lakeside. JOSEPH G. TOEPPE. In the fall of the year 1844, prompted by a desire to better their condition in life, there came from Baden, Germany, to America, Michael Toeppe and his brother, who settled near Buffalo, N. Y., and engaged in farming. Michael Toeppe was born in Baden, April 15, 1813, and was married in New York State, in October, 1855, to Miss Mary Hillinger, also a native of Baden, born May 18, 1830. Eight children blessed their union: Joseph G., our subject; Mary, born in January, 1859, married and living at Tiffin, Ohio, has one child; William A., born in May, 1861, died at the age of twenty years; Mary, born in May, 1863, living at home; Helen, born Au- 580 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. gust 31, 1865, living in Seneca county, Ohio.; Moyette, born in 1867, living in Chicago, Ill. ; George and John, both living at home. Joseph G. Toeppe was born November 12, 1856, in Erie county. He received a common-school education in the near vicinity of Buffalo, N. Y., and at the age of twenty-six left home and embarked in a general merchandise business in Kansas, Seneca Co., Ohio. After six, weeks of trade he was burned out, On August 12, 1883, he located in Millersville, Ohio, where he rented a store and put in general supples. After two years of profitable trade he erected the two-story brick building which he now occupies. Mr. Toeppe is a Republican in politics, and a member of the Roman Catholic Church. He was appointed postmaster of Millersville, Ohio, August 1o, 189o. On April 17, 1887, he was married to Miss Mary F., daughter of John Schock, a farmer of Seneca county, Ohio, and two children have come to them: Otto George, born August 3o, 1891, and Mary F., born April 2 I , I 893. HENRY BEHRMAN is pleasantly located in Danbury township, Ottawa county, where he is successfully conducting a fine fruit farm. He is a native of Germany, born in the Province of Hanover, March 25, 1841, and is a son of Henry and Mata (Lenan) Behrman, also natives of the same province. His parents are now both deceased, the mother having departed his life January 28, 1867, the father on December 8, 189o. In their family were three children, two of whom still survive. Henry, and his sister Gasha, wife of Albert Bahs, of Danbury, Ottawa county. In 1848 Mr. Behrman, the subject of this sketch, crossed the broad Atlantic to America, and located in Danbury township, where he has since made his home. In the common schools of Ottawa county he acquired his education, and since large enough to handle a plow he has followed farming. On February 20, 1868, in Danbury township, Mr. Behrman was married to Miss Mary Kahrs, a daughter of John and Helena Kahrs both natives of Germany, the former of whom has passed away, the latter still living and making her home in Danbury township. By this union seven children were born, one of whom died in infancy; the names and dates of birth of those still living are Edward A., February 21, 187 I ; Martha, July 22, I 873 ; Hattie, May 7, 1876; Mary, May 18, 1878; Helena, July 28, 1883; and Henry, September 5, 1887. Mr. Behrman and his family attend the Lutheran Church, and are highly respected and esteemed as valuable members of the community. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party. He is a typical self-made man, having acquired his possessions through his own industrious efforts and good management, and has arisen to a prominent and influential position in his neighborhood. His reputation is above reproach, and he may undoubtedly be classed among the best citizens of Ottawa county. CASPER FOOS, retired farmer and a resident of Millersville, Jackson township, Sandusky county, was born February 20, 1826, in Alsace, France (now Germany) a son of Casper and Mary (Toeppe) Foos. The parents of our subject came to America in 1842, and settled near Rochester, N. Y., where the father's death occurred in 1882, when he was aged seventy-eight years; the mother died seven years later at the age of eighty-four years. Mr. Foos was a member of the Roman Catholic Church, and in politics he was a Democrat. Casper Foos, the subject proper of these lines, who was one of a family of COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 581 nine children, remained at home until his nineteenth birthday, when he started out for himself. He worked at different places and at various employments, for two years, and then secured a paying position in a distillery where he was employed seven years, saving his earnings. In 1855 he moved to Jackson township, Sandusky Co., Ohio, and there bought forty acres of land and engaged in farming pursuits. Five years later he bought one hundred acres more. On April 25, 1849, Mr. Foos married Miss Adeline Horchelar, of Rochester, N. Y., daughter of John H. Horchelar, now deceased, as is also her mother. The children of Casper and Adeline Foos were as follows: George, Maryette, John, Martin (1), Helena, Anthony, Louis and Martin (2). In politics Mr. Foos is a Democrat, and has held several offices, being popular and well-liked in the community. He served in Company F, Thirty-second Ohio Volunteers, under Capt. W. W. Webb, Seventeenth Corps, Sherman's Army. In religious faith he is a member of the Catholic Church. ELLIOTT F. PEIRCE. Among the leading and representative fruit growers of Catawba Island township, Ottawa county, there is none more prominent than the gentleman of whom this notice is written. He is a native of the Old Dominion, his birth having occurred in Lancaster county, August 22, 1857, and is a son of john A. and Mary E. (Cox) Peirce. When about twelve years of age he removed with his parents to Baltimore, Md., where most of his education was obtained in the public schools. In 1875 Mr. Peirce came to Ohio, locating in Carroll township, Ottawa county, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits for over a year, and in 1877 removed to Catawba Island where he spent five years in fruit culture. From 1882 until 1889 he was in the employ of the Chicago and North Western Railroad Company as telegraph operator and station agent at Irwin, Iowa. At the end of that time he returned to Catawba Island, and after remaining there for about eighteen months, removed to Arkansas during the year 189o, where for two years he was employed as station agent by the Iron Mountain Railroad Company. Since 1892 he has been extensively engaged in fruit growing in Catawba Island township, and is meeting with excellent success. On September 28, 1882, Mr. Peirce was married to Miss Elnora H. Porter, who was born June 22, 1858, a daughter of Wheeler and Flora H. (Bearss) Porter, and they have one child: Wheeler R., born July 25, 1883. The father of Mrs. Peirce was born in western Connecticut, May 3o, 18o8, and was a son of John and Sarah (Beers) Porter. In October, 1832, he located on what is now Catawba Island, and during his residence there resided in three different counties, though on the same farm, as the name was changed three times by reason of alterations made in the surveys. Dr. L. S. Porter is his son by his first marriage, and on December 22, 1853, he wedded Miss Flora H. Bearss, a sister of his former wife. They had two daughters--Sarah A., who was born December 19, 1854, and is the wife of Theodore S. Porter; and Elnora H., the honored wife of our subject. The father passed away April 1 o, 1888; the mother, who was born in New Fairfield, Conn., December 17, 1832, still survives him and finds a pleasant home with our subject. From a local paper published in 1887 we glean the following reminiscence concerning Mr. Wheeler Porter: " Mr. Porter is one of the pioneers of Catawba. He left Connecticut, September 27, 1832, and landed on his present farm (then consisting of 300 acres) one month later, where he remained until the fall of 1839, when, 582 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. becoming homesick, he sold out and returned to Connecticut; but the first line of boats the following spring brought him back, and he purchased 100 acres of his old farm where he has resided ever since. When he first came to Catawba it was known as Danbury township, Huron county. There was only one American family on the Island at that time. His party consisted of eight persons, the first night was spent in a log but with no floor, door, windows or roof, except the heavens above. The first Thanksgiving Day observed on Catawba was celebrated at Mr. Porter's house in 1833. The first religious service held on the Island was at his home down on the east shore in 1840. Many changes have taken place during his fifty-six years of residence on the Island, he has seen it change, as it were, from a howling wilderness to a garden of fruit. Socially, Mr. Peirce is a member of Ellsworth Lodge, No. 473, I. O. O. F.., of Irwin, Iowa, and is a charter member of Port Clinton Lodge, No. 361, K. of P., to the Grand Lodge of which he was the first representative. In political sentiment he is a stanch advocate of the men and measures of the Republican party, while, in religious faith, he and his family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is one of the energetic young fruit growers of Catawba Island, and his farm is part of the old Porter homestead. He is pleasant and genial as a host, a general favorite with all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance, and both he and his wife enjoy the the respect and esteem of many friends and neighbors. JOHN WELLES. No name is better known or more highly revered throughout Ottawa county than the one which introduces this sketch. For more than thirty-five years Mr. Welles has been closely identified with the history of Martin, the thriving little village of which he is the founder, and which is indebted to him for its growth and prosperity. He comes of good old Revolutionary stock, and his life, full of enterprise, persistence and industry, and crowned with good deeds to his fellow men, proves the truth of the old adage, " blood will tell." John Welles was born November 13, 1824, at Wethersfield, near Hartford, Conn., in the Old Webb mansion, one of the oldest historic buildings in that State. The hospitality of its owners was so well known that it was styled " Hospitality Hall." It stands on Main street, in Wethersfield, and in 1752 was bought by Joseph Webb, Sr., from Maj. Samuel Wolcott, for two thousand eight hundred pounds sterling. The father of our subject purchased it in 1820. This home was on more than one occasion a resting place of Gen. George Washington. His first visit was made June 30, 1775, when on his way to take command of the army at Cambridge. He was accompanied by Gen. Charles Lee and other military officers. It was at the Webb home also that a most important military conference was held May 19, 1781, when Gen. Washington, with Count Rochambeau and other French officers, outlined the campaign which resulted in the siege of Yorktown and the close of the Revolutionary war. In this house, in 1753, Gen. Samuel Webb was born. He was aid-de-camp to Gen. Putnam, wounded at the battle of Bunker Hill, and afterward private secretary to Gen. Washington. He was the grandfather of the well-known' Dr. William Seward Webb, president general of the " Sons of American Revolution," and of his three distinguished brothers. Our subject's paternal great-grandfather was a major in La Fayette's corps, and afterward general of the State Militia. John Welles obtained his primary education in the schools of his native town, COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 588 and was preparing to enter Yale College when illness intervened and prevented him. At the age of seventeen years he left home, and going to New York City found employment as clerk in a wholesale dry-goods store, where he remained for seven years. Being a young man of good business ability and progressive ideas, he determined to start in some enterprise of his own, and embarked in the wholesale commission business, which he carried on for seven years with great success, shipping produce, butter, etc., all over the Western States, chiefly to California. He once sold two shipments of butter, in two days—bound to California by way of Cape Horn, there being no railroads in those days—which amounted to $30, 000. In fact he dealt so largely in butter that it was impossible to obtain a sufficient quantity of barrels in which to place the firkins; but this only stirred up the Yankee blood of Mr. Welles, and with true grit he determined to show the dealers that he was not dependent on them. He came to Ohio and purchased six thousand acres of timber land, built a sawmill and employed a large force of men cutting logs and turning them into lumber, staves, heading, etc., making his own necessary utensils. He carried on the commission business in New York for a year longer, then sold out and returned to Ohio, where he devoted himself to the manufacturing of lumber, etc. At this time Mr. Welles established the now thriving little town of Martin, naming it for his father, Martin Welles. He extended his business, employing from eighty to one hundred men, and nineteen teams, and continued in this work for upward of twenty-five years, in the meantime clearing his large tract of land and turning it into fertile fields, planting 150 acres of corn in one season. In 1880 a disastrous fire swept away his entire plant at a loss of $13,000, on which there was no insurance. A new mill speedily arose, phoenix-like, from the ashes of the old 37 one, and the business was again under way. The fire-fiend, however, continued to pursue him, and in 1885 a smaller mill was burned, Mr. Welles losing S3,000, on which there was but little insurance. After his second calamity he retired from the lumber and stave manufacturing business, which had not proved very profitable, and has since devoted his entire tune and attention to his extensive farm. On October 6, 1863, Mr. Welles was married to Ada M., daughter of Rev. Henry Moore, and they became the parents of two children: Frances Adaline, born October 29, 1878, who died October 22, 188o; and John Moore, born April 5, 1881, who is attending high school in Genoa. Martin Welles, the father of our subject, was born in 1788, in Newington, Conn., read law at Hartford, where he practiced for a number of years, and also for a time in New York City. He was for eight years speaker of the House of Representatives in Connecticut, was afterward a member of the State Senate, and was also a candidate for governor of that State. In political faith he was an Old-line Whig. He was a man of strong character and excellent principles, and for many years prior to his death he served as judge of the Superior Court of Connecticut. About 1808 he was married to Miss Frances Norton, who was born in 1791, a daughter of Reuben Norton, who was a merchant of Farmington, Conn. She became the mother of five children, a brief record of whom is as follows: Thomas Norton was born, in 181o, in Newburgh, N. Y., and received his education in his native town and in New York City, where he studied for the ministry, but on account of ill-health, was obliged to give up his plans, and in hope of reovering his health went to Illinois and took up farming; there he died in 1852, and was laid to rest in Jubilee College Cemetery. Charles R. was 584 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. born in 1812, in Newburgh, N. Y., graduated from Yale College and read law at Springfield, Ill. ; he was a warm personal friend of the martyred President, Abraham Lincoln, and they practiced law side by side in the courts; after the death of Mr. Welles, which occurred in 1850, at Springfield, Mr. Lincoln, as his executor, transacted all the business for Mrs. Welles up to the time of his leaving the city to take his seat in the White House. Julia Welles was born in the old Webb mansion and died in infancy. Francis N. Welles was also born in the old Webb mansion, in 1823, and was educated in Hartford, graduating from Yale College; he took his degree from the Medical University of Missouri, at St. Louis, and practiced for a short time at Springfield, Ill., returning to 'Wethersfield, Conn., where he died June Jo, 1893; he was married to Miss Augusta Pulsifer, of Rocky Hill, Conn., and they had two children, Dr. J. N. Welles, a dentist at Hartford, Conn., and Dr. F. M. Welles, a physician. John Welles, the subject proper of this sketch, is the youngest child. The father of this family died January 18, 1863, while on a visit to his son John, at Martin, the mother passing away at the old home in 1876. Adaline Moore, wife of our subject, was born February 16, 1840, in Portage county, Ohio, daughter of Rev. Henry and Adaline (Miller) Moore. Her mother was born in Hartford, Conn., and was a minister of the Congregational Church, as was also her mother's father. The children born to this couple were as follows: Adaline M.; Catherine E., born October 16, 1841, who resides at Toledo; Lucetta P., born at Wayne, Ohio, in 1849, and died in infancy; Clara, deceased in infancy; Delia, wife of the renowned Dr. Carl Von Ruch, of Asheville, N. C. , who graduated at Ann Arbor (Mich.) College, and afterward studied in Germany; Mary Alice, widow of George Bishoprich, who lives at St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada; Carrie, who died in infancy; Abbie B., residing at Asheville, N. C. ; Grace, wife of William Schoenheit, of Asheville, N. C. ; and Henry Welles Moore, who studied medicine in the universities at Cleveland (Ohio) and Ann Arbor (Mich.). and is a practicing physician at Milan, this State. Henry Moore, the father of this family, died suddenly in 1890, while. on a visit to his son-in-law, Dr. Carl Von Ruch, at Asheville, N. C. , and at his request was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, Toledo, beside his granddaughter, Frances Adaline Welles, daughter of our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Welles are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church at. Genoa, at which they are regular attendants. The name " philanthropist " might with propriety be applied to our subject, John Welles, for his heart and purse have ever been open to the call of humanity or the furtherance of any laudable project. He has always contributed freely to the erection of churches, schools and other public institutions, giving land, lumber and personal services, and by his wise counsels and judicious management has. wrought to successful completion many projects for the growth and improvement of his community. Since the formation of the party he has always been a stanch. Republican, but has never been an office-seeker, for though on several occasions. he has been tendered the suffrage of the people he has always declined, on the. ground that he supported his party from principal, and that he should never look. for or accept office. He has in his pos session several valuable heirlooms which, date back to the time of the Revolution-. ary war in 1775. One of them is the subjoined letter, written by Gen. Alex. Gellatly, an officer of the British army, to Mr. Seth Norton, grand-uncle of our subject, who was a Tory, and fought on the side of the British in the war of the Revolution. COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 585 MR. SETH NORTON, Commissary General's Office, Charleston, South Carolina. NEW YORK, 3 Nov., 1780. DEAR SIR: Your favor of the 7 Sept., was delivered to me on the 25 of same Month, which tho' short, conveyed me the agreeable account of your welifare, of which I wish a long continuance; it also gives me satisfaction to understand that your conduct meets the approbation of Mr. Townsend. He is a worthy man. I obeyed your commands to Messrs. Humphrys and Clayton. the former by letter, the latter in person. Mr. Humphrys has been stationed at Loyds Neck ever since July in receiving Forage. He informed me in his last letter that he was in good health. Mr. Clayton desires his respects to you. I am sorry it is not in our power to communicate to you any interesting Intelligence; we seem here at present to lye upon our oars. It is from your quarter that we look for and expect great things, and indeed you have hitherto acquitted yourselves like Brittish Heroes, and I hope that every opportunity from you will convey us fresh additions to the Laurels already acquired by your Brave Noble Commander, whom I pray may be the happy Instrument under God of restoring Peace in the South. Admiral Sir George Bridges Rodney arrived here several weeks ago with ten Sail of the Line. His departure is expected in a few days. Admiral Arbuthnott has the French Fleet and Army fast blocked up at Rhode Island; it is hoped they will both fall into his hands. On the 15th the first Division of the London Fleet arrived here with a reinforcement of Troops. No news of importance was brought by this Fleet. Before now you have no doubt been informed of the tragical affair of the much lamented unfortunate Major Andre and of the coming in of General Arnold from the Rebels. The particulars of the Causes of both will, I dare say, have at this time transpired with you. I have sent Dr. Watson a few of our Latest News Papers; to them I refer you, for what is going amongst us. Our Friend Mr. Gillane Butler is stationed at Flushing where he resides with his family--I shall expect to hear from you by first Opportunity--Wishing you Health and every other Blessing. I remain, Dear Sir, Your Friend and Humble Servant, ALEX. GELLATLY. Another interesting heirloom is a solid mahogany bedstead, nine feet in height, imported from England, and a part of the original furniture of the old Webb mansion. Gen. George Washington slept on this bed on more than one occasion. The paper which adorned the bedroom of this distinguished guest still remains on the wall in the old Webb mansion. The house still remains in good preservation in possession of the Welles family. FREDERICK BRETZ, one of the prominent fruit growers of Middle Bass, Ottawa county, was born in. Mecklenburg, Germany, February 8, 1843, son of John and Mary (Kulow) Bretz, who were both born in Mecklenburg, came to America in 1853, and located in Sandusky, Erie Co., Ohio. John Bretz was engaged in business for a number of years in Sandusky, Ohio, but during his declining years lived a retired life. His death occurred April 11, 1885, and that of his wife on December is, 1893. They had a family of four children, all now living, as follows: Frederick is the eldest, and is the subject of this sketch; Lena is the wife of August Graves, residing in Danbury township, Ottawa county; Bertha is the wife of Henry Foster, a hardware merchant of Sandusky; and Louis resides in Sandusky. Frederick Bretz received part of his school education in the Fatherland, but when ten years old came with his parents to America, and completed his education in the schools of Sandusky. He then worked at agricultural pursuits, afterward learned the trade of mason and plasterer, and followed that occupation for about twenty years, being, for a part of the time, also engaged in fruit growing. In 1865 he settled on Middle Bass Island, has lived here ever since, and ranks to-day among the most prominent and honored residents. At Sandusky, Ohio, May 17, 1866, Frederick. Bretz was united in marriage with Caroline Burggraf, and they have had five children, one of whom died in infancy, four now living, as follows: Frederick, born May 29, 1867, residing in Cleveland, Ohio; Julia, born July 12, 1869, wife of John Rehberg, Jr., residing at Put in Bay, Ottawa county; Edward, born January 13, 1872, living at home; and Herman, born July 21, 1879. Mrs. Bretz's parents were Mathias and Maria Bruggraf. Mr. Bretz has served as trustee of Put in Bay township three terms, 586 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. also as school director. In his political views he is a Republican. The family attend the Lutheran Church. ANDREW BECHSTEIN, a prominent grape grower and wine maker of Middle Bass Island, Put in Bay township, Ottawa county, was born in Hessen-Nassau, Germany, January 12, 1843, son of John and Martha (Mueller) Bechestein, who were both also born in Hessen, Germany. John Bechstein, who was a farmer by occupation, died in February, 1887, his wife on March 9, 1869. They had three children, namely: Andrew, the subject of this sketch, and George and Adam, both of whom are still living in Germauy. Andrew Bechstein was reared to manhood and received his education in the Fatherland. At the age of twenty he voluntarily joined the bodyguard of King William I, in Kassel, in which he served three years, and then returned to his trade as weaver, which he continued to follow together with agricultural pursuits, up to the time of his departure for America. In Germany, on April 24, 1866, he was united in marriage with Fredericka Horn, who was born in Hessen, July I I, 1845, and they have had five children, as follows: Mary Kathrine, born June I, 1867, married to Frank A. Fischer September 6, 1888, at Detroit, Mich., and now residing at Middle Bass Island; Lawrence J., born January 10, 1869, was united in marriage with Bertha Steinle November 26, 1895, at Sandusky, Erie county, Ohio, where he now resides; Emil A., born November 15, 1872; Andrew C. J., born June 20, 1875; and Emma M. E., born February 1, 1881. Mrs. Bechstein's parents were Andrew and Sophia (Bechstein) Horn, the former of whom was born in Germany June 16, 1802; in 1822 he joined the Hunters Guard, and served ten years in Hessen-Kassel; in 1832 he was appointed Forester in Falkenberg, whence he removed to Dens, and at his own request he again returned to Rockensuess Hessen, where at his first home, he died April 2, 1879. His wife preceded him to the grave by many years, having passed away when the daughter Fredericka was but an infant. Mrs. Bechstein still has living two brothers and two sisters, the elder brother, John Horn, being teacher and composer of music at Louisville, Ky.; Lorenz Horn, the younger brother, is in the furniture business at North Amherst, Ohio; one sister resides in New Albany, Ind. , and the other at their dear old home in the Fatherland. In 1869 Andrew Bechstein came to America, locating in Detroit, Mich.,where he resided two years. In March, 1871, he removed to Middle Bass Island, and engaged in grape growing, having been a continuous resident of the Island since. In politics he is a Republican. The family attend the Evangelical Protestant Church. ALBERT W. SADDORIS, fisherman, of Point Locust, is a native of Carroll township, Ottawa county, born at Point Locust, January 5, 1856. His parents, Elias and Eliza Melissa (Root) Saddoris, were both natives of Ohio, the former born in Holmes county, July 25, 1827, and the latter in Huron county, on December 14, 1835. In their family were five children, namely: James W., born February 2, 1854, is a prominent farmer of Carroll township; Albert W. is the next in order of birth; Mary E., born September 6, 186o, is the wife of James Floral, who resides in Port Clinton; Theodore E., born in November, 1862, died in infancy; Eunice, born February 13, 1864, died February 9, 1867. The father of our subject for many years was a prominent agriculturist of Carroll township, both he and his wife being COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 587 early settlers of Ottawa county. In 1864 he was drafted for service in the war of the Rebellion, and was attached to Company H, Fifty-fifth O. V. I. At Savannah, Ga., he died from illness contracted while defending his country, and his remains were interred in that city. He had many friends in Ottawa county, where he was both widely and favorably. known. In the district schools of Carroll township, Albert W. Saddoris acquired his education, and since attaining the age of fifteen years has engaged in fishing and sailing on the lakes, so that almost his entire life has been spent upon the water. He stands high in the community in which he lives, winning the confidence and respect of all with whom he comes in contact. He uses his right of franchise. in support of the Republican party, but cares little for the honors or emoluments of public office. JOHN C. BLEHER, a prominent merchant and popular citizen of the village of Lacarne, Ottawa county, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany. December 20, 1836, and is a son of. George and Eva (Holder) Bleher, both of whom were natives of the same country, and emigrated to America in 1848, locating in Sandusky, Ohio, on the Toth of May, that year. The father was not long permitted to enjoy his new home for he died three months later. His wife continued her residence in Sandusky until her life's labors were ended in 1888. Their family numbered seven children—four sons and three daughters—of whom only three are living: John C., whose name opens this record; Charles, a resident Of Clyde, Ohio; and John M. The subject proper of this review was only twelve years of age when brought by his parents to America. He acquired his education in the public schools of Sandusky, and for some twelve years after leaving school engaged in a sea-faring life, on the lakes. After that he spent twelve years in the car shops of the C. S. C. Railroad Co., at Sandusky. On May I, 1874, he took up his residence in La-carne and opened a general mercantile establishment which he has since successfully conducted, building up a good trade. His fair and honest dealings, his earnest desire to please his customers, and his courteous treatment, have won him a liberal patronage. On June 3o, 186o, in Sandusky, Mr. Bleher was united in marriage with Miss Julia Ann Meachem, a daughter of Charles and Susan Meachem, and a native of Stratford, Conn., born December 2, 1844. By their marriage they have seven children, as follows: Susan E., born April 19, 1861, in Sandusky, Ohio, now the wife of John W. Snyder, of Erie township, Ottawa county; Ida E., born August 2, 1863, now the wife of John Streeter, a resident of Lacarne; Cora E., born January To, 1866, now the wife of William S. Woodring, also of Erie township; Julia Ann, born July 7, 1868, living in Toledo, Ohio; John A., born November 3, 1874, also a resident of Toledo; William H., born July 23, 1876, living in Erie township, Ottawa county; and Gertrude May, born March 27, 1882. Mr. Bieber manifested his loyalty to the government during the Civil war by enlisting, May 2, 1864, in the One Hundred and Forty-fifth O. V. I., with which he continued until after the South laid down its arms. He was then mustered out, receiving his final 'discharge in May, 1865, after which he returned to Sandusky. He is now a member of the G. A. R., and is as true to the duties of citizenship in days of peace as when he followed the old flag on Southern battle fields. In his political views he is a stalwart Republican, and has held several public offices. For seventeen years he efficiently served as postmaster at Lacarne, was township trustee for one year, assessor for two years, supervisor also two years, and town constable three years, in all of which 588 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. offices he has discharged his duties with promptness and fidelity, winning the commendation of all concerned. Socially he is a member of Oliver H. Perry Lodge, F. & A. M., and the I. O. O. F.. Lodge at Oak Harbor. Mr. Bleher is one of the most progressive men of Lacarne, taking an active part in all matters pertaining to the growth and welfare of the community, and is a truly valued citizen. His business life is above reproach, and the honorable and straightforward methods which he follows command the respect of all. EDWIN MARVIN TRUE. This gentleman, who is the proprietor of the E. M. True Elevator and Feed Mills at Port Clinton, Ottawa county, is one of the leading business men of the place, and may be well called a " hustler." He is full of energy and enterprise, and by his natural ability and unerring judgment has made a success of his business. He has a large local trade which is gradually being extended. Mr. True was born August 18, 1861, in Ottawa county, Ohio, and is the son of Oliver J. and Eunice (Saunderson) True, who removed to Port Clinton in 1866, when our subject was a small boy. He obtained his education in the public schools of that place, and subsequently was employed as a clerk in the office of the L. S. & M. S. Ry. Co., holding that position some four years. In 1883 he took charge of the Merchant Mills, of Port Clinton, for O. J. True & Co., which he managed until in February, 1891, when they were destroyed by fire. The mills at one time did a large export business with France, and also shipped their products all over the Eastern States. After the fire our subject built his present elevator and feed mills, on the sight of the old mill, and, as has been stated, has been very successful. On April 16, 1893, Mr. True was united in marriage with Miss Nettie G. Bardshar, who was born in Erie county, this State, and is the daughter of Solomon and Amelia L. (Spone) Bardshar, who were descended from wealthy pioneer families. In politics Mr. True is a Democrat, and, socially, belongs to the K. of P. He began studying medicine in 1883, but the mills required so much attention that he gave up the idea of becoming a physician. He is now a well-known business man. ERNST ROOSE, one of the wide-awake and enterprising young farmers of Ottawa county, was born in Salem township January 1o, 186o, and still makes his home within its borders. He is a son of Charles and Marie Roose, who are living in the same township, numbered among the highly-respected people of the community. Our subject acquired a good English education in the public schools of Oak Harbor, and is a well-informed man on subjects of general interest, having a practical knowledge that fits him for the responsible duties of a business career. After arriving at man's estate, Mr. Roose was married in Bay township, Ottawa county, November 1, ,1883, the lady of his choice being Nancy Paulsen, a daughter of Paul and Siecke Paulsen, who was born in Schleswig, Germany, February 16, 1859. Four children graced the union of our subject and his worthy wife, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Carl P., July 23, 1884; Bertha M., January 20, 1886; Ernst W., September 4, 1889; and Albert E., January 5, 1894. Mr. Roose was reared to agricultural pursuits, and his life has always been that of a farmer. He was trained to habits of industry and enterprise, and when he began business for himself it was with a good fund of experience that has brought to him success. His place is well cared for, the barns and fences are always in good condition, and his careful supervision is shown in the neat and thrifty appearance of everything COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 589 pertaining to his home. He well deserves to be numbered among the practical and progressive young farmers of the county of his nativity. Mr. Roose cast his first ballot in support of the men and measures of the Democratic party, and has since been a stalwart advocate of its principles, taking a deep interest in all that pertains to its growth and success. He has, however, never sought or desired political preferment. The family attend the Lutheran 'Church, and all have the regard and esteem of their neighbors and friends. Mr. Roose has led an upright life, and is highly respected as a valued citizen and progressive business man. WILLIAM ROOSE, a prosperous and enterprising young business man of Oak Harbor, Ottawa county, is a native of that county, having first seen the light in Salem township May 26, 1862. He is a son of Charles and Marie (Drewes) Roose, mentioned above. Our subject's boyhood was passed on the farm whereon he was born, attending the district schools until he was fitted for entering the public educational institution of Oak Harbor, where his education was completed. After laying aside his books he entered the service of M. D. Thierwechter, of Oak Harbor, where he earned his first money—one hundred dollars for one year's clerkship, which sum was paid him at the end of twelve months, he not having drawn a single dollar in the meantime, an early illustration in his life of his innate thrift and care. On leaving Mr. Thierwechter's employ, Mr. Roose entered the Business College at Toledo, where he took a thorough course, completing same February 11, 1880, and in the following April he was given the position of bookkeeper in his father's office in Oak Harbor, which incumbency he has since filled with acknowledged ability. In 1887 in company with five others Mr. Roose organized what is known as the Oak Harbor Cooperage & Lumber Co., located at Edgerton, Ind., and of which he is secretary and treasurer. The plant cost $100,000, and the concern is under the immediate supervision of Herman Roose, a brother of William; the latter is also one of the stockholders in and a director of the Oak Harbor Basket Co., at Oak Harbor. On October 29, 1885, at the home of the bride in New Baltimore, Mich., William Roose and Miss Ida Stuth were united in marriage. She is a daughter of August and Johanna (Roose) Stuth, and was born in New Baltimore, Mich., March 21, 1863. She received her education at the Hathaway Institute of New Baltimore, in which town she passed her life up to the time of her marriage. Her father, who was a native of MecklenburgStrelitz, North Germany, born in 182o, died in Michigan in January, 1872; the mother of Mrs. Roose was born in 1822, in Mecklenburg-Schwerin, and died at New Baltimore, Mich., July 2, 1882. They were married in 1844, and became the parents of children named as follows: Eliza (deceased), Henrietta (Mrs. Henry Heidebreicht, of Edgerton, Ind.), August (deceased), William (deceased), Adolph (deceased), Caroline (Mrs. August Colloff, of Oak Harbor) and Ida (Mrs. Roose). To Mr. and Mrs. Roose were born two children: William, born October 25, 1886, died December 20, 1892, and buried in Oak Harbor Cemetery; and Lyndon, born August 2, 1893, the life of her parents' pleasant and attractive home on Water street, Oak Harbor, which property Mr. Roose had purchased in the spring of 1885. Our subject and his amiable wife are members of the Lutheran Church; in his political preferences he is a stalwart supporter of the Democratic party. He comes of a good family, and the name of Roose is entitled to be permanently asso- 590 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ciated, not only with the industrial, but also with the intellectual development of our time. REUBEN M. BABCOCK, charcoal manufacturer and landowner. This old and highly-respected citizen of Williston, Allen township, Ottawa county, is a native of New York State, born in Columbia county, October 24, 1820, and is the son of John and Clarissa (Gray) Babcock, of Berkshire county, Mass., and Columbia county, N. Y., respectively. Our subject received a better education than fell to the lot of most boys of his day, attending the public schools of his native place in his boyhood, and then, for three years, going to the college at Farmington, Trumbull Co., Ohio, from which he was graduated at the age of twenty-two years. He taught school for several years, both in Burn township, Athens county, and in Belmont county, Ohio. He then decided to learn a trade, and took up that of carpenter for twenty-one years, part of the time being spent at Farmington, and a part at Pittsfield, Mass.; during this time he helped to build three steamers for the Ohio river trade. Later he gave up working at his trade and went to Michigan, settling in Ash township, Monroe county, where he engaged in the manufacture of staves, giving employment to a number of men. In connection with this enterprise he carried on farming, and also went into the real-estate business, in which latter he was fairly successful. While at this place he also began the manufacture of charcoal, running four kilns. At the end of twenty-one years spent in Michigan, Mr. Babcock came to Ottawa county, this State, and located at Martin, in Clay township, where he built four kilns, and continued the manufacture of charcoal. Here he remained one year, and then selling out, removed to Williston, Allen township, where he built six charcoal kilns. He purchased a tract of 160 acres of timberland, near Williston, and used the timber which he cleared from it to make his charcoal. Here he erected a comfortable dwelling house, with all necessary barns and outhouses, and has made his property a highly-cultivated farm and pleasant home, where he is spending his declining years in the enjoyment of the fruits of his labor. Mr. Babcock was married, May 23, 1850, to Miss Lucy M., daughter of Thomas and Electa (Williams) Ensign, of Pittsfield, Mass., and children were born of this union, of whom the following record is given: William H., born in Pittsfield, Mass., September 18, 1852, was educated in the public schools of Michigan. Reuben E., more fully spoken of farther on. Lucy E., born March 31, 1857, was married March 21, 1877, to Nelson Richards, a farmer of Monroe county, Mich., and they have four children—Frank, born May 11, 1879; Judy, October 3, 1884; May, March 3, 1887; and Pearl, December 4, 1889. Emily E., born September 6, 1859, in Ohio, was married November 18, 1884, to Alsom Phile, son of Henry E. Phile (whose sketch will be found elsewhere); two children have been born to them—Eva and Alsom E. Edwin H. Babcock, was born in Ash township, Michigan, June 13, 1865, and received his early training in the high school at Genoa, Ottawa county, this State, which was supplemented by a course in a private school at Port Clinton, conducted by Miss Mothly; he afterward attended the high school at Ada, and subsequently the Business College at Cleveland, from which institution he was graduated with honor; after this he went to Ann Arbor, and entered the high school, at which he pursued his studies in geology and botany; he was married Tune 3, 1890, to Miss Cora M. Chapman, of Bowling Green, Ohio, who was a graduate of Ann Arbor (Mich.) COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 591 College, and two children are the result of this union-Corwin, born December 1, 1892, and Edna, born January 7, 1894. Mr. Babcock resides in LaPlata, Mo., where he is engaged in the manufacture of charcoal. James Babcock was born in Ash township, Monroe Co., Mich., September 6, 1863, and died in youth. Two other children died in infancy. Reuben E. Babcock, above mentioned, was born at Pittsfield, Mass., September 22, 1854, and received his education in the public schools of Ada, Ohio, and Valparaiso, Ind., where he attended the high school. Deciding to adopt the profession of a lawyer he entered the Law Department. of Ann Arbor (Mich.) University, graduated in 1887, and was admitted to the bar at Columbus, Ohio, the same year; he practiced in Toledo for two years. On March 31, 1883, he was married to Addie Carpenter, a daughter of Erastus Carpenter, of Pittsfield, Mass., and one son, named after his father and grandfather, blessed their union. Mrs. Babcock graduated at Pittsfield, Mass. The promising career of this brilliant scholar and fine lawyer was cut short by his sudden death at Williston, July 10, 1889, from heart failure. His death was deeply felt, not only by his immediate friends but by his associates at the bar and business men who knew his worth. John Babcock, the father of our sub-. ject, was born in 1780 at Berkshire, Mass., and was a son of John Babcock, the latter a native of England, who took arms against the mother country during the war of the colonies for independence in 1775. John Babcock, Jr., received a very limited education, and learned the tade of a cabinet maker in Pittsfield. He was married March 17, 18o8, to Clarissa H. Gray, who was born in 1787, and they became the parents of eleven children, as follows: Thaddeus G., born April 7, 1809; John. G., born April 28, 1811; Sylvia Ann, born March 22, 1813, now the widow of Henry Roberts; Eliza A., born May 5, 1815, deceased November 21, 1854; James M., born July 4, 1818, at New Lebanon, N. Y. ; Reuben M., our subject; Edwin H., born November 4, 1822, died October 9, 1863, at the Chestnut Street Hospital, Philadelphia, from the effects of a wound received during the Civil war; Adaline A., born February 16, 1825, died at Pittsfield, Mass., in 1893; George H., born April 20, 1826, at New Lebanon, N. Y. ; Horatio N., born July 12, 1828, died January 23; 1853; and Clara A., born February 4, 183o, deceased wife of Frank Sparks. The parents of this large family have both passed away, the father having died July 22, 186o, the mother in 1857. Thomas Ensign, father of Mrs. Reuben M. Babcock, was born May 27, 1790, at Pittsfield, Mass., and was a carpenter and joiner by trade. He was married February 16, 1814, to Electa Williams, whose father was a blacksmith, born in Connecticut, and they became the parents of five children: Mary E., born May 19, 1815, married September 22, 1835, to Calvin Carver; Kezia, born April 10, 1819, who was married April 1, 1838, to William Treadwell; Edgar N., born October I, 1821; Lucy M., born December 22, 1823, wife of our subject; and James M., born April 2, 1826, who died in youth. Mr. Babcock is a stanch Republican, and the family are members of the Free Methodist Church. PETER LICKERT, one of the most prominent farmers of Benton township, Ottawa county, is a son of Daniel and Catherine (Pfaff) Lickert, and was born in Hesse, Germany, January 1, 1852. The parents of Daniel Lickert, John and Sophia (Hassell) Lickert, were born in Hessen, Germany, in 1755 and in 1770 respectively. They had ten children, five sons and five daughters. Daniel Lickert was born in Germany January t, 592 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 1824; married Catherine Pfaff in 1847, and they had nine children, seven sons and two daughters, seven of whom are living, two sons having died. Daniel Lickert had the misfortune to fall from a scaffold, thus breaking his right leg in three places. Peter Lickert's maternal grandfather, John Pfaff, was born in Hessen, Germany, about 1780, and the maternal grandmother, Sarah (Suerbrei) Pfaff, was born about 1784. Mr. Lickert is related to the Crolls, who were also old settlers of Benton township, by the marriage of his uncle, Peter Lickert, Sr., to Miss Fulkert, a sister of Mrs. Henry Croll's father. Peter Lickert, the subject of this sketch, lived in Hessen, Germany, until he was thirteen years of age, and acquired there a liberal education in the German language. He came to America to stay with his uncle, Peter Lickert, Sr., who lived near Elliston, in Benton township; here he has since had his home, and he owns one of the finest farms not only of Benton township, but of Ottawa county. At the age of fifteen he commenced life for himself by working on a farm for one year, receiving seven dollars a month. He then learned the carpenter's trade, in which he has always been very proficient, and has since planned and superintended the erection of his fine dwelling and all the outbuildings, besides other structures and many buildings for his neighbors. On February 18, 1874, Peter Lickert was united in marriage with Miss Sophia Ernsthausen, of Elmore, Harris township, Ottawa county, and they have had eight children, namely: Henry, born December 5, 1874; Clara, April 27, 1876; Sophia Catherine, January 28, 1878; Mary Elizabeth, May 18, 1880; William Henry, August 15, 1882; Edward, June 19, 1885; George Daniel, August 3, 1888; and John Henry, April 4, 1892. Mary died May 12, 1882. Mrs. Lickert has always been a faithful adviser and helper to her husband. She was born in Toledo, Ohio, October 15, 1851. Her parents moved to Genoa, in Clay township, Ottawa Co., Ohio, when she was three years of age, and remained there nine years, thence moving to Gibsonburg, Sandusky county, where they lived eight years, and where she obtained her education. She then went to Elmore, in Harris township, Ottawa county, and remained there until her marriage, in 1874. Her father, Casper H. Ernsthausen, was born in Germany January 15, 1828, and came to America in 1842. Her mother was born in Germany September 15, 1827. They were married, in 1850, in Toledo, Ohio; have since lived in the State, and have had seven children, five of whom are still living. Mrs. Ernsthausen's mother, grandmother of Mrs. Lickert, whose maiden name was Sophie Gerwin, was born in Germany about 1812, and died in Elmore, Ohio, in 1878. For eight years after his marriage Mr. Lickert continued to work at his trade. In 1877 he planned and built the Methodist Church at Rocky Ridge, Benton township; in 1882 he built the hotel at Graytown, Benton township, and a little later a large planing-mill at Graytown, Benton township. For seven years, from 1881 to 1888, he was land agent for Mr. A. W. Cutler, who owns extensive tracts of land in Ottawa county. In 1875 Mr. Lickert purchased a farm from Martin Witty, near Elliston, Benton township, hired a man to run it, and continued at his trade; about that time, also, he was associated with 0. G. Guss in the erection of a planing-mill at Rocky Ridge, but they were soon burned out, in consequence of which he sustained a loss of two thousand dollars. He then went to Graytown and erected the mill now owned by W. H. Lachmiller, operating it for one year, when Mr. Lachmiller came in as a partner, the firm being known as Lickert & Lachmiller. Mr. Lickert sold his interest in the mill to Mr. A. F. Frese in 1885, and purchased 440 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 593 acres of timberland in Sections 12, 13 and 14, Benton township, on which there were no buildings and no fences. In the short space of ten years he cleared 330 acres of land, took out part of the stumps and fenced the entire 440 acres. In walking over this farm to-day, tilled by modern methods, one would scarcely realize that only a decade ago it was all a wilderness. Thus the hand of industry brings order out of chaos, and a home out of the wilderness. He sold off zoo acres of his original purchase, leaving himself 240 acres of highly productive and well-tilled land on which are three good barns and two spacious houses. It was through the efforts of Mr. Lickert and Mr. Muggy that School District No. 11 was organized, and a fine brick building erected, where the rising generations may be trained to usefulness in the world. All Mr. Lickert's children who are old enough to attend are having the advantages of this school which their father helped to organize. Politically Mr. Lickert is a Republican, and an earnest supporter of his party. He was president of the school board in his township for several years and has ever taken an active part in educational matters. AUGUST FLECKNER. To the residents of Oak Harbor, Ottawa county, and to the traveling public, in general, there is perhaps no name in this section more familiar, or more respected, than that of August Fleckner, the genial proprietor of the " Wheeling Hotel," at Oak Harbor, and one of the most progressive citizens of Salem township. Born in Prussia, Germany, December 31, 1851, he is a son of Frederick William and Caroline (Wiltke) Fleckner, both natives of Germany, the former born August 23, 1824, the latter on January 8, 1831. They were married in their native land in February, 1848, and in 1872 emigrated to America, locating in Oak Harbor. Their family consists of five children, namely: Robert, born February 25, 1849, a resident of Oak Harbor; August, our subject; Frederick William, born August 30, 1853, a prominent agriculturist of Carroll township; H. Otto, born January 11, 1856, a resident of Oak Harbor; and Hugo H., a farmer of Carroll township. The father died March 3, 1875; the mother is now residing with her son in Carroll township. August Fleckner, the subject proper of these lines, received his primary education in the schools of his native land, afterward learning the trade of a gardener, at which he worked until twenty years of age, when he entered the German army, seeing three years' service. In 1874, on receiving his discharge, he emigrated to America, locating in Oak Harbor, Ottawa Co., Ohio, where he remained eight years, working at his trade. In 1882 he moved to Cleveland, Ohio; but returning to Oak Harbor the following year he has since been a constant resident of that town, for the past eleven years engaged in the hotel business. He was united in marriage at Oak Harbor, May 12, 1877, with Augusta Louisa Feitz, a daughter of Gottleib and Caroline (Wezer) Feitz, born in Prussia, Germany, August 12, 1852. By this union there were three children, viz. : August, born April 11, 1878; Oscar Emanuel, born February 4, 1881; and Bernhardt Harry, born July 29, 1884, and died August 1, same year. Mrs. Fleckner's parents were both natives of Germany, the father having been born there in November, 1822, and the mother on February 15, 1826. They were married February 16, 1848, and to their union were born thirteen children, only three of whom are now living, namely: Augusta Louisa, wife of August Fleckner; Caroline, born April 12, 1861, now the wife of John Forman, of Oak Harbor, and Frederick, born November 18, 1869, residing in Toledo, 594 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Ohio. The father died in his native land November 25, 1874; in 1880 the mother came to America, and is now living with her son-in-law, August Fleckner, at the advanced age of seventy years. Politically Mr. Fleckner is an ardent supporter of the Democratic party, and wields a strong political and social influence throughout the country, being one of the most progressive men of his time and place. The family are members of the Lutheran Church. JOHN MITCHELL, proprietor of the Lake House," Port Clinton, Ottawa county, a well-established and popular hotel, is a native of New York State, born October 14, 1833, at Ithaca, a son of Patrick and Ann (O'Neil) Mitchell, natives of Ireland, who came to this continent about the year 1828. Patrick Mitchell was a soldier in a British regiment stationed at Quebec, Canada, for about a year, then left for the United States, locating at Ithaca, where, in 1832, he married Ann O'Neil. Here for a time he followed the trade of stone mason, and some years later served in what was known as the Florida war, under Gen. Wool, having enlisted at Utica, N. Y., in Company D, Third United States Infantry; also served in the Mexican war, enlisting at Pontiac, Mich., and on his return from that campaign, in 1847, he died at Detroit, Mich. Later his widow (who with her only child, our subject, occompanied her husband during the Florida war), married Patrick Gillick; she died, in 1866, at Milford, Oakland Co., Mich., her second husband following her to the grave one year later. John Mitchell, our subject, spent his childhood in Utica, N. Y., and his boyhood in Fennville and Milford, Mich., until he was eighteen years old, when he moved to Detroit and hired out as teamster to Reeves & Jennison, contractors and builders. After working for them about a year they took a contract to build a large cement mill at Ottawa City, and sent him there to take charge of their teams, which he did until the mill was completed; after that he sailed the lakes about three years, as man before the mast, running chiefly between Toledo and Buffalo, and occasionally to Lake Huron. He afterward worked among the farmers on the Peninsula, and was the first to follow fishing at Port Clinton with pound nets. In 1861 Mr. Mitchell raised Company I, Forty-first O. V. I., for service in the Civil war, of which company, when organized, he was elected captain. At the camp of instruction, Cleveland, he was by some unaccountable error, through no fault of his own, deprived of his. rank, and obliged to go as a private, which he did, remaining with Company I until December, 1864, during which time he had been promoted to second lieutenant, then to first lieutenant, later to captain. The war being nearly at an end, he resigned and settled on a farm he had bought on Catawba Island, which he cleared up and put into fruit. In the fall of 1866 he was elected sheriff of Ottawa county, and held the office four years. In 1870 he went into the lumber business, and four years later was re-elected sheriff, serving four years more. After this he followed lumbering extensively, in partnership with Alphonse Couche (since deceased), at various localities—Port Clinton, Rocky Ridge, and several places in the State of Tennessee. After that he rebuilt a large gristmill at Oak Harbor, ran it several years, and then sold it to a Mr. Barnes. He then took charge of the " Central Hotel " at Oak Harbor, conducting it two years; after which he came to Port Clinton, and bought the " Lake House," of which he has since been proprietor. On February 8, 1858, Mr. Mitchell was married at Port Clinton, Ohio, to Miss Nancy Ann Napier, who was born. April 25, 1840, daughter of Benjamin COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 595 and Erepta (Landon) Napier, the former by birth a Scotchman, the later being of English descent. Mr. Napier was a sailor on the lakes from his boyhood until seventy years of age, when he died of cholera at Chicago, Ill. ; his wife passed away at Marblehead, Ottawa Co., Ohio, in 189o, at the age of eighty-six years. The children of John and Nancy Mitchell are: Jennie Ann (born in Port Clinton lighthouse), John, Catherine; Delia, Clarence, James, Alpha, Frank and Robert Emmett. ERNST HEMINGER, a prominent agriculturist and manufacturer, of Salem township, Ottawa county, and a representative, progressive business man, was born in Salem township, April 12, 1851. The parents of our subject, Frederick and Katherina (Holt) Heminger, natives of Germany, emigrated to America and settled in Salem township, Ottawa Co., Ohio, in October, 1850, when that section of country was still in its primitive condition. Their family consisted of ten children, as follows: Rosa, wife of Andrew Shegor, of Port Clinton, Ohio, and Frederick, of Cleveland, Ohio (children of the father by a former marriage); Ernst, the subject proper of this sketch; William, of Oak Harbor; Albert, of Lakeview, Oregon; August, of Erie county, Ohio; Louis, of Carroll township, Ottawa Co., Ohio; Amelia, wife of John Minke, also of Carroll township; Nettie, wife of Ferdinand Shellhorn, of Sandusky, Ohio, and Christopher, of Erie county. The father departed this life January 16, 1887; the mother is still living, and is now a resident of Oak Harbor. Ernst Heminger, the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch, received his preliminary education in the district schools of his native township, his early boyhood days being spent about the farm. On leaving school he served an apprenticeship term to the trade of a carpenter, which vocation he followed for nearly ten years, then embarking in agricultural pursuits, lumber manufacturing and also in the manufacturing of wine and cider, his business relations extending over a large extent of territory. In his different enterprises, Mr. Heminger has ever proved himself a man of sound judgment and excellent business qualifications, and it is needless to say that success has crowned his efforts. Our subject was united in marriage, in Salem township, Ottawa Co., Ohio, April 16, 1877, with Miss Mina Huttenlocher, whose parents, Michael and Katherine (Gram) Huttenlocher, both natives of the Fatherland, crossed the ocean to the New World and settled in Salem township, Ottawa Co., Ohio, in 1852, where they have since resided. To Mr. and Mrs. Heminger have come nine children, as follows: W. F. August, born March 25, 1878; C. William, born December 7, 1879; E. Harman, born February 4, 1881; C. Anna, born March 13, 1884; Louis, born June 14, 1886; Rosa, born April 3, 1889; Emma, born March 3o, 1891; Olga, born July 3o, 1893, and Elizabeth, born September 13, 1895. The family are devout members of the Lutheran Church. So cially they enjoy the respect of the entire community. In his political preferences Mr. Heminger affiliates with the Democratic party. GEORGE BICKFORD, the owner of a fine vineyard on Put in Bay Island, is a native son of Ohio, born in Sandusky City, Erie county, August 24, 1834. He is one of the eighteen children of Hezekiah and Mary Charlotte (Gibaut) Bickford, the former born in Maine, May 2, 1808, the latter on the Isle of Guernsey, in the English Channel, September 13, 1815. The paternal grandfather settled in Erie county, Ohio, at a very early day in the his- 596 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. tory of that locality, and there he and his wife spent the remainder of their lives. The father of our subject removed to Canada about 1840, and continued his residence in that country until called to the home beyond, April 6, 1879; his wife also died in Canada. Of their large family of children ten grew to mature years, and nine are now living, as follows: Charles, who resides in Essex county, Canada; Sarah, wife of William McLean, of the same place; George, subject of this sketch; Clarissa Ann, wife of Jacob Tufflemyer, of Essex; Hezekiah, also of Essex; John, who is living in Fort Wayne, Ind. ; William, Mary Jane (wife of Maxim Reyno), and Robert, all three living in Essex county, Canada. We now take up the personal history of George Bickford, and feel assured that it will prove of interest to many of our readers, for he is both widely and favorably known in the locality where he resides. When about six years of age he removed with his parents to Canada, and was reared to manhood in Essex county, in the Province of Ontario, where he acquired his education in the public schools. He also learned the trade of blacksmithing there, and in 1856 he left his home in that locality to return to his native city, where for one season he engaged in fishing. In the spring of 1857 he located in Put in Bay Island, where for thirty-eight years he has made his home, and the length of his residence is equaled by the high regard in which he is held. During the greater part of the time he has followed blacksmithing and fishing, but during the past ten years has exclusively engaged in the cultivation of grapes. He is an energetic, industrious and enterprising man, and his earnest and well-directed labors have brought to him success. Mr. Bickford has been twice married. On July 14, 1861, he wedded Mathilda Poskile, who died August 30, 1865, leaving two children—Hezekiah, born September 3o, 1862; and Jennie, who was born February 11, 1864, and died March 3o, 1867. For his second wife, Mr. Bickford chose Elizabeth, daughter of James and Hannah (Leard) Edwards, and born in Gosfield, Canada, February 13, 1843. They were married in Kingsville, Canada, February 14, 1867, and have had six children, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Ezra, January 14, 1868; Edith, June 12, 1869; Bertha, December 27, 187o, died December 26, 1886; Hannah, July 4, 1874, died December 21, 1886; Mina, October 3, 1878; and Ada May, August 7, 1882. Mr. Bickford has served as township trustee, has been trustee of the public lawn of Put in Bay, and has held other Minor positions, faithfully discharging his duties, and proving true to the trust reposed in him. His political support is given to the Republican party, and he attends the Reformed Episcopal Church. ENOS E. WILLIAMS, a prominent farmer of Carroll township, ranks among the oldest living pioneers of Ottawa county, having arrived here with his parents in 1834, when he was but a year old, and then the county was one vast forest, and still a part of Sandusky county. With the exception of four years spent in Indiana, he has been a constant resident of the county since that early date. His birth occurred in Guernsey county, Ohio, October 14, 1833, and in 1834 his parents, Nehemiah and Hester (Pickering) Williams, brought him to what is now Bay township, Ottawa county. The sketch of his life can not be better written than by giving it in his own words: " I recollect when there were no roads and but very few bridges in the county, and at one time I was acquainted with every family in Port Clinton. At that time Lower Sandusky, Venice, and Monroe, Mich., were the nearest milling points, and to one or the other of these COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 597 towns the people were obliged to carry their grain to have it ground, many often going to Monroe with it in canoes, the trip occuping nearly two weeks. I have lived in Carroll township constantly since 1860, and have by my own hard work cleared up thirty-six of the forty acres of land I now reside on. I have run a threshing machine, worked at the carpenter trade, farmed a little, fished a little and done nothing the greater part of the time." At present Mr. E. E. Williams is a successful fruit grower, having now over 1,100 peach trees under cultivation on his farm. Mr. Williams has been twice married. On March 12, 1860, he wedded Mrs. Dorotha Leithenburg, a native of Germany, whose parents were early settlers of Ottawa county. In the spring of 1870, she was called to her final rest, and on the 19th of the following November, Mr. Williams was united in marriage with Mrs. Eliza Melissa (Root) Saddoris, widow of Elias Saddoris, and they have become the parents of five children—Eugene E., born August 20, 1871, now a student for the ministry, and is at present living on the homestead; Nina E., born June 4, 1872; Eva L., born February 23, 1875, died May 2, 1877; Maurice E., born March 21, 1877; and James E., born April 25, 1880, died August 8, 1895. Mrs. Williams' birth occurred December 14, 1835, and she is the daughter of Rev. V. S. and Lovica (Foote) Root, the former born in the Empire State, March 4, 1810, and the latter, also a native of the same State, born December 14, 1803. Her mother died November 21, 1847; the father, who has reached the advanced age of eighty-five years, is a native of Tustin, Osceola Co., Mich. Rev. Root located in Carroll township, Ottawa county, in 1840, and there continued to make his home until 1880. He filled many important county and township offices, being the first notary public and the second justice of the peace appointed in the township. In early life he taught school and also practiced law for many years, but later engaged as a laborer in the Lord's vineyard. He is a man of fair legal ability, excellent judgment and sound common sense, while his unswerving integrity and general rectitude of life have gained for him an enviable reputation wherever he is known. Mr. Williams has served his fellow citizens as road supervisor and school director, and for the past twelve years has been master of the Grange. The family are consistent members of the United Brethren Church, and belong to the Good Templars Society; he is also connected with the Knights of Honor, and has efficiently filled the office of reporter in that body for nine years. He has been successfully elected three times to repre sent his lodge in the Knights of Honor in the State of Ohio. Politically he is a true-blue Republican. Surrounded by an interesting family, Mr. Williams is a thoughtful, devoted husband and a kind indulgent father. Among men he is genial and companionable, manly and fearlessly independent in character and thought; and consistent and temperate in all respects. He is a practical farmer and fruit grower; a man of taste and culture with broad and liberal views, and his integrity is incorruptible. His social standing is high, and he and his family have the esteem of all. We can not well conclude this sketch' without some favorable mention of Mr. Williams' eldest son—Eugene E.—who has early had a taste for literature, and knows the value of books. He is also aware of the fact that toil and frugality are essential to success, and by careful study and the practice of the latter principles is fitting himself to take a prominent place in this world, and point out to others the duties to be performed in order to fit themselves for the world to come. He is a writer of no mean ability, and has compiled a very interesting history of Ot- 598 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. tawa county. On September 20, 1895, he entered the Sandusky Conference of the United Brethren Church, where he received license to preach. He is at present engaged in teaching school at Limestone, Ohio. JOHN K. TEETZELL, M. D., a leading physician and surgeon, whose skill and ability have won him high rank among his professional brethren, was born April 23, 1859, in Blenheim, Coun'ty of Kent, Ontario, Canada, son of John and Eliza (King) Teetzell. The grandfather of our subject was a native of Wurtemburg, Germany. On emigrating to this country he landed at New Jersey after a tempestuous voyage which consumed more than three months, crossing the water in one of the old-fashioned sailing crafts of those days. He made his home in what was then Log Jail, now Trenton, N. J., and after an active and well-spent life passed away at a ripe old age, respected and beloved by all who knew him. The father of our subject first saw the light at Trenton, N. J., in 1819, the year in which Queen Victoria was born. When a young man he removed to Canada, locating in Ontario, afterward went to St. Thomas, Elgin county, Ontario, (then known as Upper Canada), and later took up his residence at Blenheim, County of Kent, where he filled the office of sheriff for nine years. He is now spending his declining days in retirement, enjoying the fruits of his former toil. His wife, who was a native of Cornwallis, Kings county, Nova Scotia, removed to Fingall, Ontario, where their marriage was celebrated. Her death occurred in Blenheim, May 31, 1891. In the family were ten children, five of whom are yet living, as follows; Rosanna, wife of S. T. Martin, a prominent banker, and mayor, of the city of Chatham, Ontario, Canada; William H. and James D. (twins), the former a wholesale druggist, of Chi- cago, and the latter a retired real-estate dealer, residing in Morpeth, County of Kent, Ontario; Elizabeth, widow of W. A. Smith, and a resident of St. Thomas, Ontario, and Dr. John K. Dr. John K. Teetzell obtained both his preliminary and college education in the County of Kent, Ontario, and when sixteen years of age left home for Chicago, where he learned the drug business under the instruction of his brother, W. H. He also took a business course in Devilines Literary & Commercial College, Jackson, Mich., completed his course in pharmacy and chemistry, and during that time began reading medicine with Dr. Myar McLaughlin, an eminent physician of Jackson, Mich. In 1880 he entered the Medical Department of the State University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, and was graduated from that institution with honor in the class of '84. He then took a postgraduate course in three different hospitals in New York City, a special course in surgery and a course in the diseases of women and children at the Maternity Hospital in that city. The following year he passed in recreation and travel, and in 1887, with a thorough knowledge of his profession to fit him for his life work, he entered upon the practice of medicine in Toledo, where he still retains an office. He built up for himself a large practice there, his skill and ability being widely recognized. In 1893 he removed to Genoa, where he opened a branch office, and his high reputation and thorough competency have already won for him a a large and constantly increasing business. He is a thorough student of his profession, and his brethren of the medical fraternity, as well as the public, 'acknowledge his superior worth, both professionally and personally. The Doctor was united in marriage, March 17, 1881, in Crawford county, Ohio, with Miss Martha L., daughter of David and Margaret (Schultz) Burgert, COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 599 who shares with her husband the regard in which he is held. In his political views the Doctor is liberal, and he is not connected with any religious organization. He does everything in his power to perfect himself in his chosen calling, and is contemplating a trip to Europe during the year 1896, in order to perfect himself in gynecology by study in European hospitals. He possesses a very genial and affable manner, is an interesting conversationalist, and is very popular in the town in which he makes his home, and also in Toledo, where he still practices, making weekly visits to that city. WILLIAM JOHN SAUERWEIN is a native of Elmore, Ottawa county, born September 29, 1864, and is a son of John George and Catherine Elizabeth (Krontz) Sauerwein, early settlers of this section of Ohio. The father was born in Hessen, Germany, March 19, 1818, was educated in that country, and there married Catherine Schneider. Emigrating to America, he located in Cleveland, Ohio, and subsequently removed to Elliston, Ottawa county, where his wife died, March 18, 1862. On January 23, 1863, he married Catherine E. Krontz, of Elmore, who was born in Hessen, Germany, June 3o, 1843, and came alone to America when thirteen years old, being forty-five days upon the water, during which some severe storms occurred. She has since spent the greater part of her life in Elmore. Her grandfather, George Krontz, .was born in 1788. Her parents were Peter and Catherine (Schneider) Krontz, the former born in 1816, the latter in 1813. In 1877 her father departed this life, her mother dying in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Sauerwein had five children: Mary, born November 11, 1863; William J., September 29, 1865; George October 31, - 38 - 1867; Elizabeth, December 27, 1869; and Anna Margaret, August 31, 1872. Our subject was obliged to leave school at the age of thirteen years on account of the death of his father. He then began work in the stave factory of H. V. Becker, of Elmore, where he was employed for about nine years. Since 1879 he has been an employe in the flouring-mill of C. Metsch & Co., of Elmore, and his faithful service and fidelity to duty is well indicated by his long continuance with that firm. On November 12, 1891, William Sauerwein married Miss Minnie E. Smith, of Elmore, daughter of John and Mary Jane (Logan) Smith. Her grandparents were J. B. Smith and Nancy A. (Archer) Smith, pioneer settlers of Ohio, of 1833. The former was born in Virginia, in 1786, made farming his life work, and died in 1839. His wife was born in 1788, died in 1868, and was laid to rest in the old cemetery at Elmore. Her father, at the time of his last sickness, owned ninety-nine slaves whom he set at liberty, at the same time giving to each a cottage and small piece of land. John Smith, father of Mrs. Minnie E. (Smith) Sauerwein, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, May 29, 1818, and came with his parents to Ottawa county, in 1833. He was married July 7, 1839, to Amelia Wilson, who died May 18, 1856, and was buried in the old cemetery at Elmore. They had seven children: Mary Jane, born June 13, 1840; Susan, May 20, 1842; Emanuel, February 4, 1844; Jeremiah, May 31, 1846; Henrietta, in 1848; John H., January 18, 185o; and Nancy Ann, June 16, 1852. On September 29, 1857, the father of this family wedded Mary Jane Logan, daughter of James and Mercy (Sebring) Logan, and born in Pennsylvania December 11, 1834; by this marriage there are five children, as follows: Sarah E., born August 23, 1858, died October i5, 1858; James L., born July 29, 186o, died March 6, 1864; David E. Ellsworth, July 12, 1862, now of To-