COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 725 ject remained there until 1852, when he came west, being employed by the C. C., C. & I. Railroad Company to take charge of laying the track, and on September 6, 1852 , he put in the first switch ever laid in Grafton, Lorain Co., Ohio. During the war he entered the employment of the United States Government, laying track in Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Tennessee, Indian Territory and Texas, after which he was similarly employed at Carson, Kans., where he also ran a train. Few men still living are so familiar with the privations, incidents, and history of pioneer railroad life in various parts of the United States, or have had as broad an experience as Mr. Hall. The last railroad work on which he was engaged was the Lake Erie & Western road from Lima to St. Mary's, Ohio. Mr. Hall was united in marriage with Miss Nancy McMillen, a native of Zanesville, Ohio, born May 14, 1833. She was a faithful wife, and her death, which occurred April 14, 1882, was severely felt by our subject. Two children came to bless their union, the eldest of whom, William E., born May 18, 1857, is now in partnership with his father in the greenhouse business; he married Miss Eva Stark, and to them have been born four children—Ezra Eugene, John B., Emil M. and Lloyd Taylor. The firm of Ezra Hall & Son were the pioneers in the small fruit business in that portion of Sandusky county. They first began to grow and ship to the city markets strawberries, raspberries, together with other small fruits, and winter lettuce. About thirteen years ago they started their first green-house, and to-day are the only wholesale flower dealers between Cleveland and Toledo, Ohio. They have telephone connections with all local towns and business points, and ship flowers as far as Chicago. They make a specialty of a species of pink, and do a considerable business in funeral decorations. They have a large and constantly increasing patronage, and have been very successful in this undertaking. As .business men, the firm ranks high and receive the respect and confidence of all with whom they come in contact. IAMS BROTHERS. This popular firm, proprietors of the Metropolitan livery stables, at Gibsonburg, Sandusky county, consists of Russell, Frank and Jesse Jams. It is always pleasant to record the history of a family in which a number of brothers, having passed their boyhood happily together, arrive at manhood with the same fraternal feelings and unite together in business pursuits, and side by side fight the battle of life. Their histories up to date are very similar. They are all natives of Sandusky county, born in Washington township. Frank lams was born March 17, 1855. His marriage to Miss Emma Saam took place in 1879, and they have one child, Alice. Russell Jams was born February 18, 1859, and was married February 5, 1880, to Miss Ellen Lowe; they have one child, Myrtie. Jesse Jams, born January 15, 1861, married Sevilla Ernst, and they have one child, J. Franklin. As has been said, the earlier careers of these thrifty and " hustling " brothers run in similar channels. All three grew up on the home farm, and each received his education in the common schools, but being endowed with the sterling qualities of integrity and perseverance, supplemented with habits of industry from boyhood, they have had the good fortune to see every enterprise in which they have been engaged crowned with success. On leaving the farm Messrs. Jams engaged in the livery business under the firm name of Jams Brothers, and are recognized as leaders in the business circles of Gibson-burg. They are stanch Republicans, and are ever ready to assist in anything which has for its object the welfare of the community. 726 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. The parents of the Jams Brothers, Jasper and Mary Ann (Mooney) Jams, were both born in Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio when quite young. They grew up and were married in Washington township, Sandusky county, where the father carried on farming, and died there when about seventy-one years old. He was a Republican, and served as a onehundred-days man during the Civil war. The mother, now seventy-two years old resides in Gibsonburg. Besides the three sons mentioned their family comprised the following children : Harriet, who married William Fought, and lives in Gibsonburg; Elizabeth, wife of Frank Fought, residing in Fremont; John, a farmer in Madison township; Mary, deceased wife of John Barman; Minerva, who married Amos Harley; Sarah, who married George Naas; Marcella, who married George Williamson, and Eltie, who married John Valance. FRED MICHAEL (deceased) was a wagonmaker by trade, and followed the occupation of farming in Madison township, Sandusky county. He was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1817, and was one of the early settlers of Madison township. At the age of twenty-two Mr. Michael started out alone for America. Coming to Ohio, he located in Lower Sandusky, now Fremont, Sandusky county, where he went to work at his trade of wagon maker in partnership with Ambrose Ochs. After being thus engaged for some time he sold out his interest and moved to Hessville, Washington township, Sandusky county, where he remained about two years, going from there to Madison township, same county, where he followed his trade five years, and then located on a tract of land near Gibsonburg, in Madison township, where he had his home the remainder of his days. In 1845 Fred Michael was united in marriage with Sophia Hass, and they had five children, as follows: Mary died in 1869. John married Mary Driftmyer, by whom he has had two children; he is a farmer in Michigan. Levina died young. Fred, who is unmarried, works in the oil fields near Gibsonburg. Joseph was born May 6, 1856, on the old homestead in Madison township. When Mr. Michael moved into the township there were very few families here. At the time of his death he had 120 acres of valuable land. He passed away in February, 1890, at the age of seventy-three years and some months. Joseph Michael, son of Fred and Sophia (Hass) Michael, attended school where the city of Gibsonburg now stands, at a time when there were only three or four buildings there. When a child he had a paralytic stroke, since which time he has had only partial use of his right side. He has always had to work hard, and since his father's death has had charge of the farm. In 1889 the farm was leased to a Mr. Gilbert, and eight oil wells were put down, all of which have a fairly good flow. Mr. Michael is well liked, and popular in the community, and has declined to accept several offices which have been offered to him. Politically, he is a Democrat. HON. JACOB DECKER (deceased) was born January 15, 1809, in Union county, Penn. His parents, John and Julia Ann (Royer) Decker, moved to Wayne county, Ohio, in the spring of 1816, remaining there fourteen years, and finally, in 1830, settled in Thompson township, Seneca county. John Decker, who was a farmer and blacksmith, died January 3, 1854, and his widow June 27, 1875, in the eighty-seventh year of her age. They were members of the German M. E. Church. Their children were Jacob, John, Samuel, Adam, COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 727 David, Mrs. Elizabeth Heater, Mr's. Sarah Burgner and Mrs. Catharine Harpster. Jacob Decker's boyhood was spent amid the scenes of early pioneer life in Wayne and Seneca counties, and, while his school days were limited to three months, his active, energetic and persevering nature enabled him by home study to lay the foundation of a practical education which stood him well in hand in after years. Amid his rude environments his observation was quickened, his reason trained, his judgment developed, and a habit of self-mastery attained which made him the man he became in later years. In 1828 Mr. Decker began to learn the carpenter's trade, at which he worked about three years. He then located in Section 21, Thompson township, Seneca county, where he purchased eighty acres of heavily-timbered government land at $1.25 per acre, on which he erected a hewed-log house. Returning to Wayne county, he married Miss Susan Billman, with whom he returned to his new home in. the wilderness. Their union was blessed with six children: Barbara (Mrs. Joseph Sherck), of Bellevue; John, living in Arkansas; David, of Atchison, Kans. ; Amos and Milton, of Thompson township; and Jefferson, who died in infancy. Amos Decker represented Seneca county in the Ohio Legislature two terms, during the sessions of 1880-81-82-83. After a residence of forty busy years on his farm, Jacob Decker retired, in 1871, to his late residence at Bellevue, Ohio. He had been successful in worldly affairs, acquiring 900 acres of land, most of which he divided among his children. Mrs. Decker died March 27, 1872, and Mr. Decker was married on May 23, 1877, to Mrs. Sarah Gardener, who was born in 1829, in Berks county, Penn., daughter of David and Lydia (Fisher) Slanker, who settled in Wayne county in 1832. Her first husband was Joseph Gardener, who died February 15, 1856. They had two sons: Charles D., living in Orrville, - 46 - Ohio, who married Miss Mary Hower, of Akron, Ohio; and William H., of Bellevue, who married Alice Kern. Mr. Decker was a lifelong, earnest Democrat, and took an active part in public affairs. He served his township in nearly all the civil offices, including that of justice of the peace. He also took a deep interest in the educational affairs of the community. He held the office of county commissioner two terms, and was twice called upon to represent Seneca county in the Ohio Legislature—in 1849 and the session following, the last under the old constitution and the first under the new. His opposing candidate for the second term was Gen. William H. Gibson. Mr. Decker was well informed in the history and politics of his country. He was a ready debater on the questions of the times, a man of wonderful will power and force of convictions. The last fifteen years of his life were spent in the quiet and retirement of his home, and were comparatively uneventful, owing to his advanced years. While residing in Seneca county, Mr. Decker was for twenty years a member of the Methodist Protestant Church; but on his removal to Bellevue he became a member of the M. E. Church, and was faithful in attendance so long as his health permitted. He died at his home, November 7, 1894, in the eighty-sixth year of his age, and was laid to rest in the family burial lot, which he had graced with a fine marble monument, in Bellevue Cemetery. Mrs. Decker retains the family homestead. Amos and Milton Decker are joint executors of their father's estate. WILLIAM P. NAYLOR, one of the most prosperous and progressive agriculturists of Madison township, Sandusky county, was born April 24, 1839, in Medina county, Ohio, son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Uhler) Naylor. 728 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Samuel Naylor, father of our subject, was born in what was then known as Little York, Penn., a son of Jacob Naylor, who was a farmer and distiller. Samuel was reared on a farm, and when a young man followed teaming, hauling whiskey from his father's and other distilleries to Baltimore, Md., where was found the best market for that commodity. In those days it took six horses to haul thirty barrels of whiskey. Samuel was married in Cumberland county to Elizabeth Uhler, a native of that county, born of German ancestry, and after marriage the young couple located on a small farm in Cumberland county, which he rented. In Pennsylvania children as follows came to them: Mary, born December 6, 1820, now the widow of Amos Fritz, residing at Medina, Ohio; Samuel, born February 27, 1823, a farmer of Lorain county; Benjamin K., born February 25, 1825, a farmer and blacksmith, now of Lucas county, Ohio; Jacob, born September 7, 1826, a farmer of Medina county, Ohio; and Ann Eliza, born September 20, 1829. In the fall of 1829 the family came to Ohi0 over the Alleghany Mountians in a covered two-horse wagon, bringing with them considerable household effects, including their bedding, which they found of the greatest use during their two-weeks' wearisome journey. Mr. Naylor, the father, had previously visited Ohio, and in Guilford township, Medina county, had selected land then looked after by Judge Heman Ely, of Elyria, Lorain county. On the occasion of that visit Mr. Naylor had hired a man to build a log house for the convenience of the family when they should arrive, but they found it in such an unfinished state that they had to rent another cabin in the neighborhood, wherein to pass the winter. In the meantime their own was made habitable, and the following spring they moved into it. While the family were en route one child, named Ann Eliza, was born September 20, 1829, at Lancaster, Penn., which interesting event delayed them three days. In Medina county the family was further increased by the following children: Rebecca, born December 18, 1831, now Mrs. W. W. Hutchisson, of Sandusky county, Ohio; Sarah J., born December 24, 1833, deceased; John, born February 0, 1838, who died at the age of twenty-one; William P., born April 24, 1839, our subject; and Henry F., born July 9, 1842, of Sandusky county. On this farm in Medina county the mother of these children passed from earth, and the father then moved into the village of Seville, same county, having purchased in that vicinity a farm of thirty acres, and also a residence in the village. In Guilford township Mr. Naylor married, for his second wife, Miss Harriet Sheldon, and one child was born to this union August 19, 1856, Harriet, now Mrs. James Ross, who is at the frontier teaching Indians. Samuel Naylor died at the age of seventy-three, and lies buried in the Lutheran cemetery, Guilford township. Politically he was originally a Whig, and after the formation of the party was a stanch Republican. He had traveled all through the Southern States, and, from observations he made during his visit, predicted the Civil war many years before it broke out. Of his family Samuel Naylor, who is one of the most extensive landholders and wealthiest farmers of Penfield township, Lorain Co., Ohio, was born February 27, 1823, in Carlisle, Cumberland Co., Penn. He was married in August, 1845, to Miss Barbara Long, and some time later they settled on a farm in. Litchfield township, Medina Co., Ohio, at the end of three or four years moving to Penfield township, Lorain county,. where he bought a piece of wild land.. They had a family of children as follows: Jacob, who enlisted in the Civil war before: he was seventeen years old, and died at Camp Dennison, while in the service; Henry, who died young; Elizabeth, wife. COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 729 of Stewart Long; Rebecca, deceased wife of Andrew Sigourney; Harriet A. ; Lany E., who died at the age of seven years; Emma, wife of William Bradstock; Mary, deceased when seventeen years old; Harvey G., a farmer; and Dora, wife of William Hower. The mother of these died January 7, 1874, and for his second wife Samuel Naylor married Miss Nancy E. Yocom, who died in 1882 without issue. William P. Naylor, the subject proper of this memoir, received his education at the common schools of Guilford township, Medina county, and worked on his father's farm until he reached the age of seventeen years, when he hired out as a day laborer by the month until he was twenty-one, at which time he came to Madison township, Sandusky county, and here continued in similar employment until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. He then voluntarily proceeded to Fremont and enlisted in Company C, Seventy-second O. V. I., under Col. R. P. Buckland and Capt. Samuel A. J. Snider, which regiment was sent to Camp Chase, thence to Pittsburg Landing, participating in the battle fought at that place April 6 and 7, 1862. Here our subject was so severely wounded in the leg that he had to be sent to the hospital at Covington, Ky., whence, after convalescing, he returned home to his father's farm, and there spent the succeeding six months. At the end of that time he received orders from his regiment to report at headquarters, Camp Chase, whither he at once proceeded, and from there was sent to Camp Dennison, where he remained until receiving his discharge on account of disability, November 5, 1862. Returning to Medina county, Mr. Naylor passed a year at his father's home, and then once more came to Madison township, Sandusky county, where he rented a farm which he worked on shares with his brother-in-law for a year. In 1865 he secured a farm of his own, eighty acres in extent, which, with the exception of a space where stood a log cabin, was covered with timber. Into this rude dwelling he and his wife removed, the walls of which were bare and unplastered, the furniture being of the same primitive character; in the provision line they had sufficient flour to last them a year, and they also had a couple of cows and some poultry. But, better than all, they were possessed of stout hearts and willing hands, and the one cheering the other they resolutely set to work to clear the land, after much labor succeeding in getting a couple of acres under cultivation, which they sowed to wheat, yielding at the harvesting twenty bushels. This they took to mill to be ground, the grist giving them enough flour for another year, and in this way they managed to exist and rear their family of children. After fifteen years passed in reducing this eighty-acre tract to cultivation, Mr. Naylor purchased an additional forty acres of timber-covered land, which in course of time he also succeeded in clearing, and bringing to a high state of fertility. In 1886 he erected a fine dwelling, second to none in the township, and built commodious barns and outhouses, planted an orchard, put up substantial fences, laid tiles, and in many other ways improved the property, till it became one of the most complete farmsteads in the county—a practical illustration of what can be accomplished by industry and enterprise. On August 7, 1865, Mr. Naylor was married in Madison township, to Miss Elizabeth J. McCreary, daughter of James McCreary, a prominent farmer of that locality, and five children were the result of that union, as follows: Mildred R., born April 7, 1866, married to William Plantz, a farmer in Scott township, Sandusky county; Winnie E., born. November 6, 1867, died July 13, 1880; Arthur, born July 3, 1870; Phinneous M., born August 31, 1872, working on his father's farm; and John A., born April 28, 1875, died September 2, 1875. The mother of 730 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. these was called from earth August 6, 1879, and December 31, 1882, Mr. Naylor married Miss Catherine Slates, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Fleck) Slates, a sketch of whom follows. By this marriage there is no issue. In religious faith Mr. and Mrs. Naylor and family are adherents of the Church of the Disciples, attending service at Gibsonburg. In his political preferences he is a stanch Republican, has never sought office, and has never accepted any, as he finds that his own affairs too closely occupy his time. He was school director of his district nine years, and has always taken a deep interest in educational matters, in fact in everything tending to the improvement and advancement, social or otherwise, of the community in which he lives. JOSEPH SLATES, father of Mrs. William P. Naylor, was born February 16, 1812, in Carroll county, Md., son of John and Catherine (Keselring) Slates, both also natives of Maryland. When Joseph was a twelve-year-old lad the family removed to Pennsylvania, where on the home farm he worked during the summers, his winter months being passed at the schools of the neighborhood, he paying for his education out of money earned during the busy seasons on the farm, and he remained in Pennsylvania, working in the capacity of farm laborer, until 1854, when he came to Sandusky county, Ohio, in Jackson township, renting a farm which he operated three years. He then removed to Washington township, same county, also renting a farm there four years, and later buying eighty acres of land in Madison township, part of which was improved, although there was an overplus of water, and there were as yet no roads. Here, in a rude hut, they made their new home, but Mr. Slates became so disgusted at the prospects that he was about to give up farming altogether, when his heroic wife assured him of her willingness to remain where they were, and render him all the assistance in her power. With this noble encouragement he concluded to remain, and he and his faithful life partner set to work with earnest endeavor, soon having nearly all of eighty acres cleared, whereon they erected a comfortable home surrounded by substantial barns and outhouses. In the course of time Mr. Slates added by purchase other eighty acres, thirty of which he brought under cultivation; then sold this eighty-acre tract, retaining the first one, which he rents, as he is now living retired, passing his declining years with his daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Naylor. Notwithstanding his years he is still active, and is a very interesting I conversationalist. In 1832 Joseph Slates was married in Huntingdon county, Penn., to Miss Elizaabeth Fleck, and a brief record of their children is as follows: William, born August 3, 1837, who is a farmer of Indiana, is married and has a family; Catherine, born August 6, 1839, Mrs. Naylor; Elizabeth, born April 6, 1842, wife of Jacob Snider, a farmer of Washington township, Sandusky county (they have two children); Liddie A., born April 5, 1844, who died in 1886, leaving four children (she first married John Lance, a farmer of Madison township, who was in 1870 burned to death at Gibsonburg, his death being caused by the explosion of a can of coal oil; she subsequently married Ira Krotzer, of Woodville township); Jacob, born April 7, 1846, a prominent farmer of Michigan, who is married and has seven children; Rebecca, born April 13, 1848, who married Samuel Garns, a farmer of Williams county, and died June 6, 1895; Mary Jane, born September 8, 1851, wife of Watts Allen, a farmer of Isabella county, Mich. (they have four children); Lucinda, born October 19, 1853, wife of David Klutz, a farmer of Eaton Rapids, Mich. (they have two children); and Ellen, born July 20, 1858, wife of Frank Klutz, an oil man (they have COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 731 one child). The mother of these was called to her long home in 1878, leaving a sorrowing husband and sons and daughters to mourn the departure of a loving and affectionate wife and mother. She was an estimable lady, affable and kind, and ever ready to sacrifice the smallest or the greatest pleasure for her husband and family. Mr. Slates, during his active life, took a deep interest in educational affairs, and for several years was school director, also clerk of the board, and he was elected township trustee on the Democratic ticket, of which party he has ever been a stanch adherent, his first vote being cast for Gen. Jackson. In religious faith he is an adherent of the Lutheran Church. PETER DOELL, retired farmer, Ballville township, Sandusky county, was born in Hessen, Germany, April 20, 1819, a son of Henry and Clara (Cobbler) Doell, natives of Hessen. Her parents were Adam and Ann Cobbler, the father a blacksmith by trade, and they both died in Germany. Our subject was one of four children, viz. : Adam Doell, a wagon maker, who married Catharine Sheffel; Catharine, wife of George Fath, a weaver and farmer, who had three children, and died in Ger many; Mary, wife of Peter List, a weaver and farmer, who had two children, and died in Germany; and our subject. Peter Doell landed in America August 2, 1838, came to Ohio, and settled in Ballville township, Sandusky county. Here he worked out by the month among the farmers for about three years, and saved his earnings. On August 29, 1841, he married Miss Margaret Resch, who was born November 2, I 8 16, daughter of Lewis Resch, a native of Germany. He continued working by the month two years after his marriage, then bought a farm of forty acres for $210. Having cleared nearly twenty acres of it, and lived on same twenty years, he sold it to his son George; then for $1,800 bought the forty-nine acres where he now lives. The children of Peter and Margaret .Doell were twelve in number, four of whom survive: (r) Mary, born October 6, 1842, married April 30, 1873, by Rev. H. Lang, of Fremont, Ohio, to C. L. Rearick, who was born April 29, 1833, a farmer and Democrat, son of John and Elizabeth Rearick, natives of Pennsylvania (their children were—Minnie May, born May 25, 1874; Arthur, born January, 1878; and Burdett, born December 29, 1880); (2) George Doell, born January 26, 1843, farmer, Democrat, member of the Lutheran Church, who married Miss Mary Parks; (3) Catharine, born March, 1845, wife of Jacob Groff, farmer, Democrat, living in Jackson township, whose children are—Emma, Nettie, Ida, and Hattie; (4) Jeseph, born January, 1847, a Democrat and member of the M. E. Church, who married Miss Mary Aguge, of Fremont. Ohio. Mrs. Margaret Doell died July 17, 1892, at the age of seventy-six years, since which time Mr. Doell has rented his farm to others, and lives with his daughter on the old homestead. He is a Democrat in politics, and a man highly esteemed by his neighbors. WILLIAM LORENZO STIERWALT, M. D., one of the most successful and prosperous medical practitioners in northwestern Ohio, now located at the flourishing little village of Lindsey, Sandusky county, was born in Sandusky township, about two miles east of Lindsey, April 30, 1859, son of Moses and Elizabeth (Lay) Stierwalt. Moses Stierwalt, the father, was a farmer by occupation, and a native of Allentown, Ohio, and in an early day he came with his father, Henry Stierwalt, to Sandusky county, where he has ever since remained, he and the mother now liv- 732 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ing in Rice township. William L. remained at the home of his parents, working on the farm and receiving a common-school education, until he was fifteen. years old. He was a lad of keen perceptions, and early in life he became fitted to teach a district school. For twelve years he successfully taught in country schools, and in 1881 he was appointed superintendent of the Lindsey High School. There he remained two years, and, in order to more thoroughly fit himself for the work of education, he went to the Ohio Normal University, at Ada, and took a scientific and pharmaceutical course. He became so deeply engrossed in the subject that the whole current of his life was diverted to a new aim. He concluded to take up the profession of medicine. After his marriage,. March 28, 1883, to Ida E. Hineline, daughter of Theodore and Hannah (Rafferty) Hineline, farming people of Sandusky county, he returned to Ada and completed his studies. Going to Toledo, he remained there three years, taking a thorough course in medical science and surgery, and then, in 1888, returning to Lindsey, he engaged in practice in partnership with Dr. Woland, with whom he continued until July 1. Dr. Woland then retired, and Dr. Steirwalt has since built up one of the largest and most successful practices in Ohio. He now owns eighty acres of choice farming land in Washington township, besides property in Lindsey. As a diversion from his professional work he is greatly interested in the breeding of fine horses, and is secretary of the Lindsey Coach Horse Association. He owns a one-fourth interest in the coach horse Marschall, purchased at the World's Fair for $2,500. Dr. Stierwalt was, in 189o, elected city councilman, on the Democratic ticket, by a majority of forty-four, when the township was conceded to be Republican. No happier home can be found than that of Dr. Stierwalt, graced as it is by an affectionate and devoted wife, and two bright children—Howard L., born November 12, 1888, and Mildred M., born May 31, 1894. C. A. KELLOGG, a prosperous retired farmer of Woodville township, Sandusky county, was born in Wood county, Ohio, April 30, 1845, son of Elijah and Mary W. (Ballard) Kellogg, and grandson of Elijah Kellogg, Sr. The latter was a native of the Green Mountain State, and at the early age of eight years migrated to Canada with his parents, who settled there upon a new piece of land. The boy grew up in Canada, and married Lavinia Hall, who died October I, 1819. For his second wife Elijah Kellogg, Sr., married Maria Wells, by whom he had six children. She died in Illinois in January, 1882. Elijah Kellogg, Jr., a child by the first marriage, was born September 16, 1819. When a young man he came to Ohio, and on October 8, 1842, in Wood county, he married Miss Mary W. Ballard, who was born September 3, 1819, in Georgia, Franklin Co., Vt. A brief sketch of the six children of Elijah and Mary W. Kellogg is as follows: (1) Thomas H., born July 29, 1843, enlisted in the fall of 1861 in Company I, Sixty-eighth O. V. I., and re-enlisted for three years; while in the service he contracted a cold at Vicksburg, which became severe and developed into consumption, and he was discharged for disability. He died at Vicksburg, Miss., October 4, 1864, and his remains were brought north and interred in Woodville cemetery. (2) C. A. is the subject proper of this sketch. (3) Theresa was born October 8, 1847. (4) Flora L., born February 16, 1850, was married June 21, 1882, to Harry E. Hudson, a farmer of Coldwater, Iowa; they have four children: Burney V., born May 8, 1883; Oscar, born December 5, 1884; Terrence E., born December 26, 1886, died August 27, 1887, and Lepha H., born November 18, COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 733 1888. (5) Mary Lavina was born August 6, 1851. (6) Charles S., a physician of large practice at Austin, Ill., born September 23, 1858, was married December 20, 1884, to Alice Pauline Riley, who was born October 24, 1859. They have three children, Marie, born January 1, 1886; Erma, born June 6, 189o, and Chester, born September 21, 1892. Our subject, C. A. Kellogg, at the age of seventeen enlisted at Woodville in Company I, Sixty-eighth O. V. I.; at Memphis, Tenn., he was taken sick with rheumatism and lay in the hospital for five months, after which he was discharged for disability. Mr. Kellogg has ever since suffered acutely from the disease thus contracted. It was in 1847 that our subject was brought to Woodville township, Sandusky county, by his father, Elijah Kellogg, who first purchased sixty-four acres of land, later seventy-two acres, and later still 160 acres. He also bought 160 acres of land located in Wood county. In May, 1892, he leased this land to the Standard Oil Company, who put down nine wells, most of which proved good producers. C. A. Kellogg in the year 1890 retired from active business life. He has leased the old homestead, for the infirmities consequent upon his military service have made it impossible for him to longer attend to the farm work. HENRY FARK, a well-known and popular pioneer farmer of Woodville township, Sandusky county, was born in Hanover, Germany, December 15, 1823. His parents, John and Mary (Westerfeldt) Fark, were born in 1788 and 1796 respectively. Of their eight children five died young.. Frederick, Henry and John grew to maturity and married. Frederick was born in 1815, and in Germany married Charlotte Tickameyer, by whom he had five children, as follows: Mary, wife of Charles Brown, of Toledo; Angeline, wife of George Dietz, and mother of five children (they are residents of Michigan); Frederick, a farmer and painter, of Wood county, Ohio; Eliza, wife of Henry David, a farmer of Wood county (she is the mother of six children); and Henry, a Wood county farmer, who married Lottie. Brown, and has two children. John was born in 1829, and married Katie Yaunsmeyer, who bore him two children: Harry, who is married to Lydia Heiser, and has two children; and Nellie, wife of William Dipp, a miller by trade, who also has two children. In 1844 our subject, then twenty-one years of age, came with his parents to America in the German sailing vessel " Louisa," which was thirty-three days on the water. After remaining a short time in New York the family came to Ohio, and in Woodville township, Sandusky county, the father purchased fifty-two acres of land, paying for the same $400. Henry remained with his parents until their decease in 1866, and for his care and attention to them in their old age the father had given him a deed for the place which he had helped to clear. On March 6, 1847, Mr. Fark married Mary Borcherdling, born December 15, 1822, by whom he had two children: Caroline, who was born December 14, 1847, and married Henry Ernsthouse, by whom she had eight children; and Eliza, who was born May 30, 1850, and married Henry Hartman, of Lucas county, by whom she has five children. The mother died November 1o, 1853, and Mr. Fark subsequently married Louisa Miller, who was born in Hanover, Germany, January 6, 1835, and when two years old came with her parents to America. This union was blessed with eleven children, as follows: John, born December 3, 1855, married Louisa Havercourse, and became the father of six children; he is a farmer of Wood county. Henry, born November 27, 1856, died March 4, 1859. John; born October 3, 1859, is living at home. 734 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Mary and Sophia (twins), born September 11, 1858, died young. William, of Toledo, born July 31, 1864, married Anna Havercourse. Mary, born May 2, 1862, died December 18, 1884. Katherine, born August 21, 1866, married Frank Afterheader, of Toledo, and they have one child, Mabel. August, born December 3, 1868, lives in Toledo. Emma, born June 10, 1871, is at home. Frederick, born November 5, 1873, is also living with his parents. Mr. Fark in 1891 leased his land to the Ohio Oil Company, which put down five producing wells. He also leased land to M. Harris, who put down two wells. Our subject is one of the pioneers of the township. When his parents first came here the family had only one ox, but fortunately a neighbor had another, and by borrowing and lending alternately each had a team. The pioneers were obliged to travel eighteen miles to mill. Wages were low, and Mr. Park worked for five dollars per month, and accepted part of his wages in trade at the store. He has been honored with various local offices during the past thirty years. He contributes liberally to the Lutheran Church, and is one of the. most substantial and prosperous citizens of the township. JAMES WASHINGTON LONG (deceased) ranked among the leading and valued citizens of Ottawa county. He was born in Pickaway ty, Ohio, August 22, 1824, and died at his home three miles from Elmore, May 22, 1890, respected by all who knew him. He was a son of Maxwell and Elizabeth (Reynolds) Long, the former of whom was born about 1797, and became one of the pioneer settlers of the Buckeye State. Amid the wild scenes of frontier life James Long was reared, and after arriving at manhood's estate he married So phronia Thompson, of Harris township, Ottawa Co., Ohio. To this union came four children-Philander, who was born April 4, 1845; Diana Elizabeth, born January 5, 1847; Maxwell, born March 19, 1849; and Harvey, born March 3, 1850. Of these two are deceased-Maxwell, who died April 19, 1849, and Harvey, who passed away March 12, 1889. The mother of this family died November 20, 1851. On April 12, 1854, Mr. Long was again married, his second union being with Mary Wainwright, of Harris township, Ottawa county. They became the parents of nine children-Ellen H., born February 16, 1855; Napoleon, born September 6, 1857, died April 15, 1877; Cora M., born May 19, 1859; Frank E., born February 28, 1860, died May 22, 1880; Dora E., born May 28, 1862, died January 17, 1889; Thaddeus J., born June 18, 1866; Lulu M., born June 19, 1869, died November 4, 1889; Edgar, born January 21, 1872, died on the 16th of May following; and one who died in infancy in 1874. James W. Long came to Ottawa county when it was almost an unbroken wilderness and settling in the midst of the forest cleared and developed a farm three miles from the village of Elmore, making for himself and family a pleasant home on the south bank of the Portage river. From the days of his earliest residence here he was prominently identified with the development and progress of this region. He had charge of the erection of the bridge over the Portage river at Elmore, and was for two terms a trustee of Harris township, while for .several terms he served in the position of justice of the peace. As county commissioner of Ottawa county he was for some years prominently identified with the work of public improvement, and was always interested in everything pertaining to the general welfare. Various business enterprises occupied his time and attention. In his earlier years he was engaged in the COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 785 manufacture of staves in connection with a firm in Cleveland. He was also employed as overseer of a gang of men on the construction of the Lake Shore railroad through northern Ohio, but he devoted the best ten or fifteen years of his life to agricultural pursuits, carrying on that business with the same progressiveness and enterprise that characterized all his dealings. His life was ever a busy and useful one, indolence and idleness being utterly foreign to his nature. His political support in his younger years was given to the Whig party, but he afterward join-ed the ranks of the Democrats. He was a fluent speaker, fond of debate and could hold his own in argument against many able speakers. He had a clear, comprehensive mind, and could present his side of the question with force, at the same time never losing sight of the most assailable places in an opponent's argument. He was laid to rest in the Gus Cemetery, near Elmore, and the community mourned the loss of one who had been an important factor in Ottawa county's history. MRS. DIANA E. BINKLEY, the daughter of James W. and Sophronia (Thompson) Long, was born January 5, 1847, and completed her education at St. Johns, Mich., after which she was for several years successfully engaged in teaching. On October 7, 1869, she became the wife of. Amos Binkley, of Fremont, Ohio, who was born June 30, 1847, in that city, and there obtained his education. His father, Samuel Binkley, was born in October, 1822, and married Christiana Albert, who was born September 1, 1823, and died April 10, 1869. His paternal grandparents were John and Mary (Fisher) Binkley, the latter born in Northumberland county, Penn., October 15, 1802. Their marriage was celebrated in 1819, and they became the parents of fourteen children, six sons and eight daughters, nine of whom were living at the time of the mother's death, which occurred April 25, 1895, when she had reached the advanced age of almost ninety-three years. She left ninety-eight grandchildren, two hundred and thirty great-grandchildren, and twenty-five great-great-grandchildren, making a total of three hundred and fifty-three descendants living, probably more than any other woman in the county. She was buried in Muskallonge Cemetery, near her father and mother, while her husband was buried in Allen county, where he died. Shortly after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Binkley removed to Benton township, Ottawa county, where they lived for twelve years. The succeeding eight years were passed at Rocky Ridge, and they then returned to her father's old farm, where they now live. They have four children—Althie May, born July 26, 1870, who was married May 18, 1888, to Gilbert Gee, of Rocky Ridge, by whom she has two children, Diana and Lula; Alma Maud, born August 28, 1874, who died in infancy; Lenora Louisa, born March 4, 1876, who was married April i8, 1894, to Oscar Hess, and has one child, Willella; and Willella Zula, born June 2, 1883. The family is one of prominence in the community, being both widely and favorably known. AMOS FOUGHT is a prominent merchant and grain buyer of Oak Harbor, Ottawa county, one of the early settlers of the community, and one of the successful business men, who by his energy. and enterprise has added largely to the prosperity of the city with which he is connected. He was born in Perry county, Ohio, June 26,. 1839, and is a son of Paul and Mary (Hedrick) Fought, who were early settlers of Sandusky county, locating there about 1844. The father is now living a retired life in Lindsey, where the mother passed away in 1864. Ten children were born to them, seven of whom are living, 736 - COMMEMORATIVE .BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. namely: Amos, of this sketch; Eli, a prominent farmer of Washington township, Sandusky county; Eliza, wife of Allen Anspach, a leading manufacturer of Oak Harbor; Jeremiah; Sarah, wife of Jacob Cunningham; Mary, wife of Amos Notestein; Lucy, wife of Joseph Blocher; and Alice, wife of Joseph Brennamen, postmaster of Lindsey. With the exception of those whose business is definitely mentioned, all are successful agriculturists of Washington township, Sandusky county, as was also Israel, who is deceased. After the death of his first wife, Paul Fought was twice married, and by the second union were three children—John Wesley and Otto, prosperous farmers of Washington township; and Ella, who resides with her father. When Amos Fought was only four years of age he removed with his parents to what was then called the " Black Swamp," in Sandusky county. There he resided until twenty-three years of age, acquiring his education in the old log schoolhouse of the district, and afterward working upon the homestead farm. In 1862 he began farming on his own account in that county, and in 1866 came to Oak Harbor, where he has made his home continuously since, being extensively and successfully engaged in mercantile pursuits and in grain buying. Mr. Fought was married in Fremont, Ohio, on March 26, 1863, to Miss Eliza Auter, who was born April 13, 1840; her parents, Christian and Mary (Siedenthaler) Auter, were also early settlers of Sandusky county, having located there in 1836. This marriage has been blessed with five children, namely: Cora, born November 18, 1865, who is now the wife of George Deal, a resident of Oak Harbor; John 0., who was born November 17, 1869, and is living in Oak Harbor; Chester L., who was born December 13, 1871, and is now attending Western Reserve Medical College, Cleveland, Ohio; Rozelia E., born November 5, 1876; and Edna Gertrude, born March 22, 1880. The family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Fought has filled the offices of clerk and trustee of Salem township, Ottawa county, has been treasurer of Oak Harbor, and is now serving as a member of the council and clerk of the school board. He is master of Oak Harbor Lodge No 495, F. & A. M., at present filling that honorable position for the third term. His political affiliations are with the Democratic party. Our subject is much respected in the community for his moral worth, while his name is associated with all enterprises undertaken for the advancement of the county's interest. He is regarded as one of the most popular and valued citizens of Ottawa county, and is a solid, progressive business man, whose character is above reproach, and whose success in life is the reward of his own efforts. PATRICK C. CULLENEN, a retired farmer of Oak Harbor, Ottawa county, was born July 3, 1817, on board his father's ship, the " Titus," in the Bay of Biscay, within twelve miles of the coast of Portugal, and is a son of Capt. John and Mary (Connors) Cullenen, both of whom were natives of County Clare, Ireland. The father was a sea captain during the greater part of his life, and died at the home of his mother, in the county of his nativity, from injuries received on board his vessel, while making a voyage from the East Indies to London, England. His wife also died in County Clare. After the death of his father Patrick Cullenen, then but two years old, was adopted by his grandparents, and he remained with them until eleven years of age, at which time he went to sea with his uncle James, and the following five years remained on board ship with him. In 1832 they arrived in Montreal, where his uncle sold his ship. Our subject, con- COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 787 eluding to remain on shore, for the following three years continued to reside in the Province of Quebec, where he was employed at farm labor and teaming. In September, 1836, he removed to Buffalo, and was engaged on board the steamer " Saratoga," then running on Lake Erie, being thus employed some three years. At the expiration of this time he went to Sandusky, Ohio, where he resided until 1854, conducting a butchering business. On November 19, 1854, he removed to Ottawa county, locating in Salem township, where he engaged in the manufacture of lumber and staves. Subsequently he turned his attention to farming, which was his business until his retirement to private life. On August 7, 1864, he purchased the first vessel ever owned by an Oak Harbor resident, and the first of any size to enter the harbor. This vessel he ran some fourteen years, at the same time conducting his farm. In November, 1861, he came to Oak Harbor, where he has since made his home. He has led a busy and useful life, and now, in his declining days, is enjoying the rest which he has truly earned and fully deserves. Mr. Cullenen has been twice married, first time on October 20, 1847, in the town of Peterborough, Ontario, to Elizabeth Metcalf, a native of the city of London. They became the parents of children, as follows: John, the eldest, was born in 1848, died at Lexington, Ky., January 11, 1863, from typhoid pneumonia, contracted while acting as nurse in a hospital during his service in Company G, one Hundredth O. V. I., in which he enlisted August 7, 1862; his remains were interred in a cemetery at Lexington. Eliza is the wife of Alex Gillespie, a resident of Carroll township, Ottawa county. Mary Ann became the wife of James Herold. William is now living in Carroll township. Margaret is deceased. James is living in Oak Harbor. Two died in infancy. The mother of this family was called from earth August 14, 1879. Mr. Cullenen's second marriage was solemnized in Salem township, Ottawa county, January 5, 1886, with Mrs. Eliza Adams, who was the widow of Isaac Adams, of Oak Harbor, and was a most estimable lady. She was born May 9, 1816, daughter of John and Catherine March, and died July 6, 1895, at the age of about eighty years, her remains now resting in Oak Harbor cemetery. Mr. Cullenen is a man of sterling integrity, noted for his straightforward business methods, and is a highly esteemed and respected member of the community. His success in life demonstrates what can be accomplished in this free land of ours through enterprise, energy and perseverance, and to-day he is the possessor of a comfortable competence as the reward of his own labors. He now resides in his Oak Harbor home, purchased for himself and wife wherein to pass their declining years in comfort and peace. GEORGE WOODWARD, M. D. (deceased), who at time of his death was the oldest and most widely known physician not only in Ottawa but also in adjoining counties, was born in Logan county, Ohio, May 24, 1840, and was a son of Jonathan and Sarah Woodward. The former was a descendant of one of four Woodward brothers who came from England to America in 1804. He was born in Chester county, Penn., and his wife was born in the State of Delaware, where her father, who was the owner of the famous Brandywine Springs, kept hotel. In their family were five children, but only one is now living—Charles, a miller, who resides in Lima, Ohio. The Doctor spent his early life in Logan county, and first attended the schools of Bellefontaine, after which he entered college at Kenneth Square, Penn., where he completed the classical course. He then determined to take up the study of 738 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. medicine, making its practice his life work, and entered the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati, from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1870. Immediately thereafter he began practice, locating in Castalia, Ohio, where he remained for more than a year. In 1872 he removed to Oak Harbor, where he successfully continued the practice of his profession until within a short time of his death. He was a skilled physician, and the liberal patronage which he received was proof positive of his ability. The Doctor was married in Auglaize county, Ohio, September 30, 1863, to Samantha Pepple, a native of that county, who was born in May, 1844, daughter of Maurice R. and Sarah (Richards) Pepple. They became the parents of five children —Sarah R., who was born July 13, 1864, and is the wife of Elmore E. Gill, a resident of Port Clinton, Ohio; Charles J., born October 9, 1867, a prominent stock farmer of Auglaize county; Horace S., who was born March 27, 1871, and is a medical practitioner of Oak Harbor; Olive, born September 7, 1874; and George, who was born April 5, 1876, and died July 23, 1880. Dr. Woodward belonged to the Ohio Medical Association, and the Ottawa County Medical Association, and his ability was everywhere recognized by the public and his professional brethren. He was very successful in his chosen calling, winning a high and well deserved reputation and building up an extensive practice, and he held the office of coroner for over fifteen years. Socially he was a valued member of the Odd Fellows society at Rocky Ridge. He passed away in 1893, and the county lost one of its best citizens, the profession an eminent member and his family a devoted husband and father. Dr. Horace Woodward, who seems destined to occupy the place which his honored father filled, was born in Logan county, Ohio, and when only a year old was brought by his parents to Oak Har bor, where he has resided continuously since. He received his elementary education in the public and high schools of that place, and commenced his professional studies by attending Ohio. Medical College, Cincinnati, where he remained for two years; he then entered the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, Ky. , where he was graduated with the class of 1893. He is still among the noble army of Benedicts. Since his graduation he has been established in business in Oak Harbor, and his ability, both natural and acquired, has given him high rank in the profession and will bring him still greater success in the future. He is a young man of worth, and is very popular in the community. L. W. KASTRUP, a member of the firm of Jacobs, Kastrup & Kirk, the leading merchants of Lakeside, Ottawa county, was born September 20, 1863, in the Province of Nalland, Sweden, a son of Axel W. and Charlotte (Buchwald) Kastrup. The parents were both natives of Copenhagen, Denmark; the mother died in Sweden in 1865, but the father still makes his home in his native land, where he is a prominent merchant. The primary education of our subject was received in his home in Denmark under the instruction of a private teacher, and he also spent five years in the Soro Academy at Soro, Denmark. After completing his education he served a three-years' apprenticeship to the mercantile business, and then for one year was employed as a salesman in the same establishment, receiving a salary. In 1884 Mr. Kastrup left his native land for the New World, and after reaching New York proceeded direct to Chicago, where he resided for a short time. On leaving that city he went to Milwaukee, Wis., but during the summer of 1884 came to Lakeside, where for two years and a half he was en- COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 739 gaged in agricultural pursuits with Joab Kelly. In 1886 he removed to Echo, Minn., remaining there until spring of 1889, when he returned to Lakeside and engaged in business with Bernard Jacobs, under the firm name of Jacobs & Kastrup. They carried on operations under that style until March 1, 1895, when Arthur E. Kirk was admitted to parnership, and they assumed their present title. The firm does a successful and lucrative business, and they well deserve the liberal patronage that is accorded them. Mr. Kastrup has been twice married, first time in February, 1887, at Redwood Falls, Minn., to Miss Edith Pettibone, a daughter of William and Caroline (Henderson) Pettibone, the former of whom is now deceased, and the latter a resident of Lakeside. Mrs. Kastrup departed this life April 1, 1889, leaving an infant daughter who still survives—Esther, born March 24, 1889. On May 2, 1891, at Lakeside, Mr. Kastrup wedded Miss Lena Ermich, a daughter of Frederick Ermich, of Danbury township, Ottawa county, and by this union there are two children— Marguerite, born May 5, 1892; and Harold, born November 5, 1893. Socially Mr. Kastrup is identified with the Knights of Pythias, belonging to Peninsular Lodge No. 607, and Lakeside Tent No. 81, Knights of the Maccabees. Politically, he uses his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Republican party, while religiously the family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. He and his wife are valuable members of society, their intelligence and pleasant and courteous manners making them welcome guests wherever they visit. WILLIAM W. RYMERS, a retired merchant and banker, who is one of the early pioneers of Harris township, Ottawa county, as well as one of the most highly esteemed and prominent citizens of Elmore, is a son of Frederick and Catherine (Williamson) Rymers. He was born in Mt. Pleasant, Westmoreland Co., Penn., September 10, 1828, and when a child of four years was brought by his parents to Stark county, Ohio, where he attended the district schools until sixteen years of age. He then pursued his studies in the public and high schools of Randolph, Portage Co. , Ohio, and on completing his education learned the trade of plasterer and brick layer, teaching school during the winter months. Later he engaged in stock raising and farming in Erie township, Ottawa county. On September 16, 1861, Mr. Rymers enlisted in the Forty-first O. V. I., was subsequently elected first lieutenant of Company I, and was promoted to the rank of captain March 1, 1862. During that year he was stricken with typhoid fever, and in consequence was honorably discharged and conveyed to Port Clinton, Ohio, where his wife had removed during his absence. Under her tender and careful nursing he was at length restored to health, and on becoming convalescent returned to his farm, which he sold the following year, removing to Elmore, where he engaged in the hardware business. In the fall of 1864 he was appointed lieutenant-colonel of the One Hundred and Seventy-seventh O. V. I., but owing to his pressing business duties was unable to accept. Selling out in 1871, he took up his residence in Le Mars, Iowa, where for five years he was engaged in the real-estate and banking business. In 1876 he returned to Elmore, and purchasing his former store continued to conduct it until 1882, when he once more sold out, and has since practically lived a retired life. Mr. Rymers was married in Randolph, Portage Co, Ohio, October 22, 1851, to Isabel Essig, daughter of John and Esther (Spangler) Essig. She was born in Stark county, Ohio, June 12, 1830, and died in Elmore, February 18, 1895. To their happy union came three daughters- 740 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Melissa, born September 2, 1852, who is the wife of E. Seifried; Clara, born December 11, 1854, who died November 2, 1872; and Alice, born October 22, 1856, who died September 11, 1857. Socially Mr. Rymers is a member of Elmore Lodge No. 462, I. O. O. F., and a charter member of the Encampment; he was formerly a member of Portage Lodge No. 365, F. & A. M., and he belongs to Robert H. Caldwell Post No. 439, G. A. R. Previous to the war he affiliated with the Democratic party, but since that time he has been a strong Republican. For many years he has been a consistent and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a man of fine, as well as forcible intellectual qualities, an extensive reader and deep thinker, of a remarkably practical cast of mind, and yet possessing a temperament quick to notice the beauties in his suroundings. Of conservative but firm judgment, he is perfectly reliable in all transactions, and is an able business man. He is eminently public spirited and takes an active interest in all enterprises for the benefit of his community. In manner he is social and friendly, and possesses qualities that readily win admiration and respect from his political compeers, as well as from private companions and acquaintances. Mr. Rymers' parents were both natives of Chambersburg, Penn., the father born May 24, 1790, and the mother October 12, 1790. They were married in the Keystone State, and in 1832 removed to Stark county, Ohio, where Frederick Rymers engaged in agricultural pursuits for four years, removing thence in 1836 to Randolph, Portage county. After about four years' residence there he came to Ottawa county, in 1841, locating in Erie township, where his death occurred in August, 1844, while his wife survived until September, 1864. Their family numbered eleven children, a brief record of whom is as follows: Rebecca, born September 14, 1813, became the wife of William A. Essig, of Harris township, Ottawa county, and died September 19, 1893. Henry, born October 15, 1815, died in 1834. Harriet, born January 12, 1817, became the wife of Taylor Britten, and died in 1838. Susan, born September 18, 1818, is the widow of Michael Baker, and resides in Wood county, Ohio. Ann, born December 15, 1820, is the wife of Adam Moos, of Rootstown, Portage county. Frederick, born December 6, 1822, is a farmer of Erie township, Ottawa county. Eunice, born May 22, 1825, is the wife of R. T. Kirk, who is living near Port Clinton. William W. is the next in order of birth. John T., born November 10, 1830, is living in Lacarne, born Ottawa county. Margaret was January 25, 1834. Henry W., born December 22, 1839, resides near Elmore. FRANCIS RUTER, one of the oldest pioneers, and also one of the most prominent and prosperous agriculturists of Allen township, Ottawa county, was born at Rorden, Germany, June 28, 1828, and was a son of William C. Ruter, a native of the same city. Our subject was educated in the excellent public schools of his birthplace, and learned the trade of a miller with his father, who at that time owned and operated several mills in Rorden. Here he lived until eighteen years of age, when he started out for himself, going to Bremen, where he found employment at his trade, and there remained for ten years. In Germany, he was married in June, 1855, to Mary E., daughter of Frederick and Marcie (Bunte) Sheperman, of Hanover, Germany, and a few months afterward Mr. and Mrs. Ruter came to the United States, locating in Woodville, Sandusky Co., Ohio, where for several years he operated a gristmill for Mr. John Elican. By the expiration of this time he had saved enough COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 741 money to purchase a tract of woodland in Clay (now Allen) township. Here he began life in earnest. Clearing a little spot in the wilderness, he built a log cabin, to which he brought his family, and with the help of his brave wife toiled day and night for years to bring the land under cultivation, and make it what it now is, one of the best and most highly improved farms in the township. In the meantime Mr. Ruter had quite an unfortunate experience; about nine months after he had settled in his cabin home, which was during the Civil war, he was drafted into the army and assigned to the Thirty-second Ohio Infantry, in which lie served nine months. When peace was declared he returned home quite ill, suffering from an old trouble contracted in Germany, only to find his wife and children had left the cabin and gone to the home of his wife's father in Ottawa county, as they were unable to endure the loneliness of the isolated life in the woods. Here, under the loving care of his wife, Mr. Ruter recovered his health, and then returning to his farm again took up the daily toil by which alone the tiller of the soil can accomplish the end desired. As his means increased he put necessary improvements on the place, building a comfortable dwelling, barns, etc., and making a comfortable and pleasant home, in which he is passing his later years in the consciousness of a life well-spent. To our subject and his good wife nine children were born, five of whom are now living, and a brief record of them is as follows: Livesia was born June 22, 1858, at Woodville, Sandusky county, and became the wife of John Labue, a tinner, in Toledo; she has three children—Cora, born in 1882; Jessie, born in 1886; and Walter. Mary, born December 25, 1861, in Woodville, Sandusky county, was married in 1881 to John Klett, a farmer of Allen township, Ottawa county; her children were born as follows: William, November 19, 1882; Frances, October 16, 1884; Clara, November 7, 1887; Bertia, March 8, 1889; and Frederick, November 24, 1893. John was born June 22, 1863, in Allen township, and was married April 20, 1889, to Calamina Martin; they have three children—Annie, born April 25, 1890; Cora, born May 27, 1892; and Otto, born November 11, 1894. john Ruter lives on the homestead with his parents. Sophia Ruter was born in Allen township June 4, 1867, and married Gustav Shoschin, a farmer of that township; they have four children—William, Eddie, Otto and Frances. William Ruter was born May 6, 1872, and was educated in the district schools of Allen township; he is unmarried and resides with his parents. Of the children who are deceased Lydia, born in July, 1856, was married to Spencer Stewart, of Toledo, and became the mother of four children; she died in 1888 in Toledo. Mena, born June 5, 1865, died in 1872. Frederick, born in May, 1869, died in 1873. Henry died in infancy. Frederick Sheperman, the father of Mrs. Francis Ruter, was born in Hanover, Germany, where he was educated and married. In 1856 he emigrated with his family to this country, and settled in Ottawa county, where he farmed for a number of years. His family consisted of the following named children: Mary, the wife of our subject; Gerald, who died May 29, 1892; Lucia, widow of Christopher Molkinburg, of Sandusky county; Angelina, wife of William Schlaren, of Toledo; and Henry, who is married and resides in Toledo. Peter Martin, the father of Mrs. John Ruter, was born in Denmark, where he was married to Calamina Peterson. In 1888 he came with his family to this country, settling in Ottawa county, this State, where he still resides and carries on farming. The names of his children are Christopher (married), Calamina (wife of John Ruter), Morris, Peter, Nora, Annie, Selina, Ida and Annie. Mr. Ruter is a man of energy, and still actively interested in all projects for the 742 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. welfare and improvement of the community of which he has so long been an honored member. He is a stanch Democrat and every ready to work for the good of his party. He and his family are faithful attendants of the Lutheran Church at Genoa, Clay township. IRA STERNS, business manager at Williston, Ottawa county, for the Dewey Stave Manufacturing Company, of Toledo, was born in Carleton county, near the city of Ottawa, the capital of the Dominion of Canada. His parents were Ira and Mary (Brown) Sterns, the former of whom was born at the same place as his son, of Scotch descent, while the mother was a native of Scotland. To this worthy couple nine children were born, of whom seven are now living, as follows: William, a farmer, who is married and lives on the old homestead; Margaret, widow of William Coldrey, living in Canada; Laura, wife of Samuel Nickelson, a blacksmith, in Ottawa, Canada; Ellen, wife of Alexander Kane, a farmer; Ira, our subject; Jennie, wife of Thomas Anderson, a carriage builder, at Ottawa, Canada; and David C., a farmer, living in North Dakota. The subject of this sketch was born January 11, 1850, and attended the schools of his native place, obtaining a good education. He left school when sixteen years of age and spent three years in the employ of his brother-in-law, Samuel Nickelson, learning the blacksmith trade. At the expiration of this time, in 1869, he came to Ohio, and entered the employ of John Welles, manufacturer, at Martin, Clay township, Ottawa county. After spending several years there he worked for C. H. Sawyer, lime manufacturer at Clay Center, for some years. Subsequently he was engaged by the company for whom he is now manager at Williston as a mechani cal engineer, having charge of the machinery and engines of the factory for fifteen years. His long and faithful services were rewarded when, in 1891, he was promoted to the responsible position of business manager, the duties of which he has filled with honor to himself and satisfaction to his employers, and he has also succeeded in gaining the good will and esteem of those under him. Mr. Sterns was married in Toledo, October 24, 1871, to Miss Maria Peart, of Stark county, this State, and six children have blessed their union, viz. : Frederick, born October 5, 1872, was educated in the schools of Williston and is an engineer, operating the engines and machinery in the factory of which his father is the manager; Annie, born March 18,1874, was married to Jacob Hartman, a carpenter and joiner, who is at present employed in the factory; Nellie, born August 18, 1877, is at home; Laura, born June 2, 1885, is attending school in Williston; Harley, born November 5, 1880, died March 17, 1881; and Ray, born November 6, 1890, died June 2, 1891. Mrs. Maria (Peart) Sterns, the wife of our subject, was born October 25, 1849, daughter of Benjamin and Mary (Streets) Peart. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania, and when a young man came to Stark county, Ohio, where he was married. He was a contractor and builder, and was for a time located at Martin, Ottawa county, where he built a number of houses, removing thence to Clay Center, where he died June 6, 1886. His wife is still living, and makes her home with her son at Clay Center. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Peart, in Stark county, as follows: Man-ford, who is married and lives in Toledo; Sylvester, who is the manager of Mr. Pearce's lime factory at Clay Center; Jones, who is married and is employed in Bailey's mill, Williston; Charles Jerome, who is married and works in Dewey's mill, Williston; Annie, Mrs. Edwin Watson, COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 743 who died in February, 1875, leaving two children; Clark, who is married and works in the lime kilns; Leroy, who is married and works in the mills at Williston; and Mary, wife of our subject. Mr. Ira Sterns has held the office of constable for the township of Allen for the past five years, and was recently re-elected for another term. Socially, he is a member of Genoa Lodge, No. 584, I. O. O. F., and in his political views is a Republican. The family attend the services of the Methodist Church. They are held in high esteem in the community. JOHN LUTZ (deceased) was one of the pioneer settlers of Middle Bass Island, Ottawa county, and a prominent and progressive citizen, taking an active part in such matters as would promote the advancement of the interests of his community. He was a son of Christopher and Margaret (Snyder) Lutz, and was born August 15, 1827, near Canton, Ohio, where he was educated and reared to manhood. In 1851, when it was still in its wild and uncultivated state, John Lutz settled on Middle Bass Island, where for a number of years he followed fishing and farming for a livelihood, and in later years devoted his attention more particularly to the culture of grapes, his extensive vineyards bespeaking good judgment and industry on his part. On July 3, 1860, John Lutz was united in marriage, at Sandusky, Erie county, with Victoria Delauria, daughter of Charles and Florence (Lisperans) Delauria, and seven children have graced this union, viz. : Albert, born February 24, 1862, Julia A., born November 7, 1863; Charles B., born May 18, 1866; Miles B., born February 27, 1870; Arthur J., born August 15, 1873; Sarah M., born November 12, 1877; and Frank F., born December 14, 1879. Mr. Lutz was a perfect type of man- - 47 - hood, possessing unusual physical powers and endurance, and being endowed with mental vigor no less remarkable. Often he went beyond the requirements of the Golden Rule, and throughout his well-spent life was constautly doing for others more than he would have asked others to do for him under similar circnmstances. In those early pioneer days, when the struggle for existence was so hard and the opportunities for lending a helping hand were so numerous, he often taxed his physical powers to their utmost in assisting his neighbors and friends, and would not hesitate to give his last dollar in cases of urgent need. He was active and indefatigable in every good work, and contributed his full share toward laying broad and deep the foundations of morality and good society that have given Middle Bass its honorable history. He passed away, honored by all who knew him, and to his life work and to the example of pioneers such as John Lutz Middle Bass Island owes a lasting debt of gratitude. ALBERT LUTZ, eldest son of John Lutz, resides on Middle Bass Island, close to the homestead farm where he was born and reared to manhood. He is one of the young, progressive men of the Island, and is extensively engaged in grape growing. On December 9, 1894, he was united in marriage with Miss Etta Pelton, who was born in Syracuse, N. Y., daughter of David and Ann Pelton. In politics Albert Lutz is a Republican. He is a man of broad views, keen, quick perceptions, sterling integrity and a spotless reputation, qualities that have gained for him the confidence and respect of all who know him. PHINLEY L. CUNNINGHAM, M. D. , of Graytown, Benton township, Ottawa county, a son of Andrew and Jane (Brewer) Cunningham, was born in Fulton county, Ohio, May 24, 1865. 744 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Andrew Cunningham was born September J0, 1821, in Pennsylvania, and in 1840, at Oxford, Butler Co., Ohio, was united in marriage with Jane Brewer, who was born in Pennsylvania, May 23, 1824. They had ten children, eight of whom are now living, Dr. P. L. Cunningham being the youngest in the family. Three of the sons are physicians, one an attorney at law, one a locomotive engineer on the Ann Arbor road, one a conductor on the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern road, one a teacher of twenty years standing, and one daughter has been a teacher of music for twenty years. The father and mother now living in their home in Fulton county, Ohio, have great reason to be proud of the attainments of their children, who are all self-educated, their parents having been unable to assist them in their efforts for success. Dr. P. L. Cunningham spent his boyhood days at Wauseon, Fulton Co., Ohio, and there attended the public schools, from which he graduated in the scientific course in 1882. After graduating he went at once to Cleveland to accept a clerkship in the firm of Broker & Co., and filled the position for six months, engaging for the remainder of the year in the store of McLyman & Co., and for three months was connected with the brass works of Lorain county, Ohio. He then went to Knox county, began reading medicine with Dr. Robert Putman, and remained with him for four years. Meanwhile, in 1885, he began a course of medical lectures in the Western Reserve University, where he attended two years, and then spent one year in the University of Wooster, Cleveland, Ohio, from which he was graduated in 1888 with the degree of M. D. Immediately after graduating Dr. Cunningham located as a physician in Fulton county, Ohio, where he took the general practice of his brother until 1892. During all this time he fully realized that the road to success lay along the line of specialism. Thus far he had been a self-made man, and had put himself through his medical course. Now, determining to push his studies further, and in special lines, he made all necessary arrangements, and in the fall of 1892 left for Edinburgh, Scotland, to pursue special work. He entered the old University of Edinburgh, and remained there about nine months, taking a post-graduate course, after which he went to London, England, and entered St. Thomas Hospital, where he remained six months, doing medical and surgical work. He then returned to Ohio, and settling in Graytown continued for a time in general practice here as a physician and surgeon, and then took up his specialties of the eye and ear, in which he is now engaged. Dr. Cunningham spends about one-half of his time in his private office at Graytown, where he is busy continuously, and the remainder on the road. He is a personal friend of and in many ways a co-worker with Dr. Joseph Schneider, the great oculist and aurist of Milwaukee, Wis. Dr. Cunningham visits all the leading cities in Wisconsin and Iowa, where he has a very extensive clientele. His surgical work on the eye in Ohio is mainly performed in Cleveland, where access may be had to first-class hospitals; he has performed many difficult operations, and success has attended his efforts in his chosen profession. He is also a contributor to different medical journals, among which are the International Medical Journal, the New York Journal, Cincinnati Clinic, Journal of Surgery, Medical World, Medical Bul letin and Physicians' Report. On January 1, 1893, Dr. Phinley L. Cunningham was united in marriage with Miss May Stepp, of Seward, Fulton Co., Ohio. They have no children, and are living in a pleasant home in Graytown. Mrs. Cunningham received her education in the public schools of her native town. Her parents, Frederick and Martha Anna E. (Ottgen) Stepp, came to this country COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 745 from Germany, her mother in 1855, and her father in 1865, were married December 1, 1866, and had three children, one son and two daughters. Mrs. Cunningham's sister is with her at Graytown, and her brother is clerking in Toledo. Her grandparents were born in Germany in 1795, and died in 1852 and 1854 respectively. C. P. ENGEL, who is a retired grape grower, and the oldest living settler on Put in Bay Island, Ottawa county, was born October 5, 1814, in Saxony, Germany, where he was educated and reared to manhood. Our subject learned the trade of shoemaking in his native country. In 1840 he came to America, on July 27 of that year, landing at Baltimore, Md., whence he shortly afterward proceeded to Pittsburg, Penn., and after a brief residence in that city removed to Sandusky, Erie Co., Ohio, where he resided and followed his occupation of shoemaking for twenty-seven years. In Sandusky, Erie county, on January 3, 1843, Christian Engel was united in marriage with May N. Beylen, who was born in Switzerland August 8, 1819, and they have had eight children, of whom six are living, namely: John, born January 15, 1845; Christian P., born December 10, 1846; Louis; Charles; Emma, widow of Henry Pfeiffer, and Hugo. Two of the sons, John and Christian P., were attached to the Seventy-second O. V. I., and served all through the war of the Rebellion. Louis also served in the United States army for three years. May N. Beylen, now Mrs. Engel, came to America, in 1832, with her parents, Nicholas and Mary Ann (Eagan) Beylen. In 1868 Mr. Engel removed to Put in Bay Island, of which he has ever since been a resident, and where he engaged extensively in the culture of grapes. He was for two years overseer of Sandusky Cemetery, and also served as councilor of Sandusky City for one term. In his political views he is a stanch Republican. On December 11, 1889, C. P. Engel was united in marriage, in Sandusky, with Bina Federsen, who was born in Germany March 31, 1869, and they have had one son, Herbert, who was born February 22, 1891. The parents of Mrs. Christian P. Engel, Christian and Mary Federsen, were born in Germany and are now residents of Kelley's Island, Erie Co., Ohio. A. M. GROVER (deceased) was a native of the Empire State, his birth having occurred September 8, 1822, in Livingston county. There he resided until 1834, acquiring his education in the public schools, and during his early youth he learned the trade of a ship carpenter. In 1834 he came to Ohio, living in Sandusky county, near Clyde, and while there located he frequently worked at his trade on Catawba Island, but not for a number of years later—in 1858—did he take up his residence here. He became one of its valued citizens, and devoted his whole time and attention to the cultivation of fruit, ranking among the most prominent fruit growers of the day. He was an energetic and enterprising man, one whose careful management of his business interest and his honorable dealing won him a well merited success. While residing in Sandusky county, Mr. Grover was united in marriage, on December 24, 1847, with Miss Lavina Davis, a daughter of Daniel D. and Sarah (Prentiss) Davis. Five children graced this union, of whom four are living: Thoret was drowned while skating on the lake, December 24, 1874. Those who still survive are Archie N., who was born November 4, 1860; Emma T., born June 4, 1865; Ada B., born June 2, 1867; and Herbert D., born July 6, 1873. Mr. Gro- 746 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ver was interested in the welfare of the community, and gave his support to all worthy objects which were calculated to advance the general welfare. His business engrossed much of his attention, and he met with very fair success in his undertakings. His excellencies of character won him the high regard of those with whom he was brought in contact, and his departure was deeply mourned. Since the death of her husband and eldest son, the duties pertaining to the farm and orchard have been ably carried on by Mrs. Grover and her eldest surviving son, ARCHIE N. GROVER, a young man of more than ordinary business tact and enterprise, who is one day destined to rank among the most prominent and influential residents of Catawba Island. The members of the family hold an enviable position in social circles. Their home is noted for its hospitality, and they have gained for themselves a circle of warm friends in the community. JOHN J. GEIGER. It is men of like character to John J. Geiger who build up a city. He is pushing, enterprising and aggressive, and sees in the prosperity of the community in which he lives his own prosperity. Of whatever he undertakes he makes a success, because, first, his judgment prevents him from espousing a business that has no possibilities, and secondly, his native energy is sufficient to carry his enterprise to a successful issue. Mr. Geiger was born in Huron county, Ohio, April 14, 1849, son of John and Catherine (Grabner) Geiger. The father was born in Baden, Germany, May 12, 1819, and at the age of twenty-one emigrated to America. For several years he worked by the month at Milan, Erie Co., Ohio, and during that time he learned to burn brick. Then, starting a yard of his own at Milan, he made brick on an extensive scale, the building material of the large schoolhouse in Norwalk being of his manufacture. Several years later he farmed a place between Milan and Norwalk for one season, then traded his property for a farm in Sherman township, Huron county, which he occupied for about sixteen years, and where all his children were born. Finally selling out, he moved to Peru township, where he lived twenty-six years. In 1891 he removed to Fremont, his present home. Mr. Geiger in religious faith is a Roman Catholic. His children are as follows: John J., subject of this sketch; Lawrence, a farmer of Brown township, Huron county; Mary, wife of Alvin Smith, for seventeen years a resident of Peru township, and now of Fremont; Frank, a farmer, of Peru township, Huron county; Mathias, a farmer of Sandusky county; one child who died in infancy. John J. Geiger, the eldest child, grew up on the farm and received a fair education. At the age of twenty-two he started out in the world for himself. He worked out for two seasons by the month. His marriage to Miss Mary Wilhelm occurred in 1873, and for two years he operated his father's farm. Then purchasing a farm of 149 acres, in Riley township, Sandusky county, he there engaged extensively in general farming and was very successful. Each year he raised from I,000 to 1,500 bushels of wheat, and both for the neatness with which his work was done and for the accruing financial profits he was considered one of the best farmers in the county. In 1881 he moved to Clyde, where he has since resided. He has been engaged in many real-estate operations on his own account, and has been uniformly successful. At present he owns some good property in the city, and his business is now one of the most extensive in Clyde. In connection with a mercantile business he is handling several patent rights, one of which is a " check hook; " but his main patent, and one, perhaps, in which the city is chiefly interested, is a fastening for COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 747 steel roofing. It overcomes the chief objection to the use of steel for roofing, the contraction and expansion from changes in temperature. The improvement has been introduced in Clyde, and has satisfactorily withstood the test of time. The work is now being introduced in many neighboring cities, and one of the possibilities for Clyde in the near future is the formation of a stock company for the manufacture of the roofing in that city. The family of Mr. Geiger consists of five children: Annie, Edward, Alfred, John and Mamie. He owns an excellent home on one of the best streets of Clyde. In politics he is a Democrat, and in religious belief a Catholic. He is justly regarded as one of Clyde's best business men. J. M. JONES. This well-known citizen of Gibsonburg, Sandusky county, is of Welsh descent, and possesses many of the traits of that vigorous, level-headed people. His parents were Benjamin and Hannah (Morris) Jones, and of his father's family the following record is given: Benjamin Jones was born March 9, 1823, in Caermarthen, Wales, and was the son of James Jones, who was born in 1796. James Jones married Hannah Davies, who died in Wales, and, when his son Benjamin was eighteen or nineteen years old, he left his native country and came to America, settling in Morrow county, this State. After he remained here for about eight years he removed to Wisconsin, driving the entire distance with a yoke of three-year-old steers, and locating in Iowa county, their post office being Dodgeville. Here the father died at the good old age of eighty-two years. He was a consistent member of the Baptist Church. Mr. and Mrs. James Jones were the parents of four children: James, who was born April I, 1817, came to America and settled in Delaware county, this State, where he married Miss Williams, and where he still resides. Daniel, born August 6, 1820, is a tailor by trade, and lives in Wales. Benjamin was the father of our subject. John was born October 29, 1815, and when a young man left home and never returned, no direct news from him ever reaching his family, and his fate is uncertain. Benjamin Jones settled in Morrow county, Ohio, where he lived for six or seven years, and then removed to Delaware county, whence, after a residence of four years, he came to Sandusky county and took up land where the famous "gusher," the Kirkbride oil well, is located: About nine years ago he returned to Morrow county, where he now resides. The mother of our subject was born in Morrow county October 7, 1815, and died October 13, 1882. Their family comprised six children, of whom the following record is given: Morris D. died June 22, 1874, at the age of thirty years and twenty-six days; J. M. is our subject; Sarah A., born February 27, 1848, is the wife of A. B. McCreery, and lives in Wood county, this State; Eliza A., born May 12, 1850, married James Smith and, died July 18, 1878; Joseph Fuller, born May 18, 1853, died March 5, 1862; Margaret, born September 14, 1855, is the wife of Charles Chambers, and lives in Genoa, this State. Our subject grew to manhood on his father's farm in Sandusky county, and varied his work in the fields with attendance at the district schools. During the Civil war he enlisted with the one-hundred-days' men, in Company H, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Regiment, Ohio State Militia, and was sent to Maryland and Virginia to guard the Capitol at Washington. When his time expired he returned home and took up the trade of carpenter, at which, he worked for a number of years. He then engaged in farming in Scott (now Madison) township, leaving this to take charge of a hotel at 748 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Bradner. Subsequently returning to the farm he remained there until four years ago, when he came to Gibsonburg, and since that time he has been engaged in buying and selling stock, building houses and in the insurance business. In addition to these occupations he is carrying on a grocery. Mr. Jones was married, September 25, 1870, to Miss Mary A. Price, who is a native of Merthyr-Tydvil, Wales, born March 2, 1850. Her parents were Thomas and Ann (Evans) Price, the former of whom was born September 20, 1823, in Gwinther, Breconshire, South Wales, his death taking place in Wood county, Ohio, September 18, 1886, the latter was born August 29, 1827, and is still living at her home in Wood county. They came to America at an early day and settled in Morrow county. Mrs. Jones was their only child. Her paternal grandfather, Thomas Price, Sr., was born in Wales, August 29, 1797, and died April 14, 1881, in Wood county, Ohio. To our subject and his wife have come two children: Eliza M., born April 27, 1871, and Price, born August 8, 1888. Both Mr. and Mrs. Jones have been fortunate in coming into possession of some of the finest oil-producing property in the State, from which they derive handsome incomes, the Kirkbride well being one of the most wonderful in the country. Mr. Jones is a man of excellent judgment and business ability, as is evinced by the numerous enterprises which he is carrying on with uniform success. Politically he is in sympathy with the Republican party, and socially he belongs to the I. O. O. F., G. A. R., and P. O. S. of A. A. G. RUNNER, a wide-awake and enterprising, fruit agriculturist of Carroll township, Ottawa county, has by his natural good judgment and indomitable energy arisen to a promi nent position in the community, where he and his family are held in the highest esteem. He is a native of the Buckeye State, born June 9, 1843, in Margaretta township, Erie county. His parents, Michael and Elizabeth Runner, were both natives of Maryland, and located in Erie county among the pioneers of 1830, where they were honored and revered residents for many years, the father dying in 1846, and the mother in 1867. By their union eleven children were born, five of whom still survive, as follows: Caroline, widow of Paul Leidorf, of Venice, Erie Co., Ohio; Isaac, residing on the homestead farm; John, who also makes his home in Erie county; Rebecca, wife of Richard Axton, of Venice; and A. G. , the subject of this biographical sketch. The educational privileges of A. G. Runner were such as the district schools afforded, and at a very early date in his life's history he was instructed in the duties pertaining to a farmer's life. He has followed that occupation from his early boyhood days, and for some few years was also engaged in fishing on the lakes. In 1861 his patriotism prompted him to enlist in Company H, Fifty-fifth O. V. I., in which regiment he served one year, being taken prisoner at the battle of Franklin on April 5, 1862, and detained as a prisoner of war by the Confederates until July 3 of the same year. Upon being paroled Mr. Runner again enlisted, becoming a member of Company. M, First Ohio Heavy Artillery, and remained with that branch of the service until the close of the war, being mustered out and honorably discharged at Camp Dennison, Ohio, August 25, 1865, after four years of faithful and valiant service in behalf of his country. On his return to Margaretta township, Erie county, he resumed farming in that section, continuing there until 1882, when he removed to Carroll township, Ottawa county, and has since been ranked among its most COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 749 prominent citizens and leading agriculturists. At Port Clinton, Ottawa county, on April 12, 1870, Mr. Runner was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Elizabeth Sonocrant, who was born in Presque Isle, Lucas Co., Ohio, August 26, 1847, and is a daughter of John and Matilda (Mommeney) Sonocrant. Four children have come to bless this union: George A., born November 16, 1871, and Raymond G., born November 1, 1874 (graduate of Oak Harbor High School), are engaged in teaching school in Carroll township; Matilda E., born May 14, 1877, is a graduate of the Oak Harbor High School and is now a teacher; and Karl M., born January 13, 1883, died August 9, 1885. In his political views Mr. Runner is a stanch Republican, and, although not a politician in the sense of office seeking, he has been honored with many positions of trust by his fellow townsmen, all of which he has efficiently and satisfactorily filled. His genuine social and moral worth gives him a high place in the regard of all with whom he comes in contact. JACOB H. TRUAX. The story of this man, one of the oldest pioneers and a well-known farmer of Clay township, Ottawa county, is full of interest, as showing the grit and endurance of one who, without early advantages, fought his way through toil and hardship to a successful and honorable station in life. The subject of this sketch was born in Bedford county, Penn., April 1, 1823. His parents, Stilwell and Sarah (Hart) Truax, both of whom were natives of the Keystone State, came to Ohio when Jacob was a lad of ten years, and settled in Wood county, where they bought eighty acres of land, which was covered with a dense forest. Here the father built a log cabin, and with the help of Jacob and another son commenced to clear away the timber, till the fields, planted an orchard of various kinds of fruit, four acres in extent, and, as his means increased, erected a commodious dwelling house, with all necessary barns and other buildings. To him and his wife came seven children, namely: Abner, born and educated in Bedford county, Penn., was a hotel clerk in Sandusky county, this State, where he died. Jacob H. is the subject of this sketch. John was born in Pennsylvania, and became a farmer, following that occupation seven years, and then going into the manufacture of hoops, in which he is at present engaged, at Genoa; he married and had two children, one of whom is deceased. Mary, Mrs. John Sivalls, is a resident of Woodville. Louis, born in Pennsylvania, is farming in Nebraska. Stilwell, born in Wood county, this State, is also farming in Nebraska; he is married and has two children. One child died in infancy. The mother of this family died in Wood county in 1835. The father married again, his second wife being Rachel, widow of Eben Baldwin, but no children were born of this marriage. The father died at the old homestead in Wood county in 1867, his second wife surviving him for thirteen years, and passing away in 1880. He was an honest, hard-working man, and toiled late and early to provide a home for his family. He was well and favorably known throughout the county, and commanded the respect and esteem of all who had dealings with him.. Jacob H. Truax, our subject, was deprived of all educational advantages in his youth, schools in those days being few and far between, and none being accessible in the new country where he spent his boyhood days. Early in life he contracted a most painful disease, known as " white swelling," from the effects of exposure in the water, and for many years his sufferings from it were extreme, the bones of the leg coming away through