1050 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY school and at the expiration of his first term returned to the home farm, whereon he remained until the outbreak of the Civil war, when he enlisted a member of Company A, McLaughlin's Squadron of Cavalry, and took part in many important engagements, participating in the celebrated march to sea. After serving three years he was mustered out January 28, 1864, be at that time commissary and quartermaster sergeant. Following his discharge from the army, Mr. Baughman again took up school teaching and taught for a period of eight terms, after which he resumed farm labor. He is now the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of Iand, situated in Monroe township, all of which has been acquired through his own thrift and energy. On his farm are seen excellent buildings, including a good house and substantial barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. He is engaged in raising the various cereals best adapted to soil and climate and makes a specialty of the raising of wheat, in which he is meeting with excellent success. Mr. Baughman married Miss Rebecca Peterson, whose father bore the name of Thomas Peterson and came to Richland county from the state of New Jersey. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Baughman has been blessed with four children : Lucina, the wife of George Applegate, a farmer of Mifflin township, Ashland county, this state; Sidney, who assists in the operation of the home farm ; Viola, deceased; and Grace, the wife of Ira Mathews, of Lucas, Ohio. The political allegiance of Mr. Baughman is given to the men and measures of the democratic party. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity and with the Grand Army of the Republic. He attends and supports the Baptist church while his wife is a member of that denomination. He thoroughly enjoys home life and takes great pleasure in the society of his family and friends. He is always kindly and affable and those who know him personally have for him warm regard. He ever has the interests of the community at heart and is as loyal to the public welfare as he was to his country during the dark days of the Civil war and no citizen of this section of the state is held in higher esteem. BENJAMIN E. MILLER. A well improved and highly developed farm of eighty acres, situated three miles southwest of Ganges, on section 13, Jackson township, is the home of Benjamin E. Miller, who was born in Richland county, October 24, 1839. He is a son of Isaac H. and Catharine Miller, the former born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1816, while the mother's birth occurred in Germany, in 1818. She was sixteen years of age at the time of the emigration of her parents to America, the family home being established in Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Miller were married in the Keystone state about 1848, coming to Ohio shortly afterward. They located near Ganges on a farm HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1051 and some four years later removed to a farm one mile east of Shelby, where John Arnold now lives and where they spent their remaining days. Both passed away when they had reached the age of seventy-seven years. Their family numbered eleven children, of whom seven still survive, the family record being as follows : Benjamin E., of this review ; Mrs. Margaret Reese, of Jackson township ; Mrs. Anna Sutter, of Shelby ; Mrs. Lina Roush, of Williams county, this state ; Mrs. Eva Newman, also of Shelby ; Isaac E., of Ada, Ohio; Henry J., of Williams county, this state ; Amos, who died at the age of sixteen years ; and David, Jacob and John, all of whom died in infancy. Benjamin E. Miller, whose name introduces this review, was a little lad of three years when his parents removed from their farm near Ganges to a tract of land near Shelby in Jackson township. There the son was reared to mature years, remaining under the parental roof until he had attained the age of twenty-two. He then started out in life on his own account, locating on a farm which he cultivated for one year. He then removed to his present home, which at that time belonged to his father-in-law, David Finicle. This comprised sixty-five acres and after Mr. Miller purchased the same he added an additional tract of fifteen acres, making in all eighty acres. He has improved the place with good buildings, has set out apple, peach and pear trees, and now has a model property. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising and both branches of his business are proving a profitable source of revenue to him. At the outbreak of the Civil war Mr. Miller put aside all business and personal considerations and enlisted for service, becoming a member of Company D, Fifteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he became identified on the 18th of April, 1861. He made a creditable military record and after his return from the war resumed farming, which has been his occupation to the present time. The marriage of Mr. Miller occurred in 1862, the lady of his choice being Miss Sarah Finicle, who was born in Jackson township, September 22, 1842, a daughter of David and Margaret (Hershiser) Finicle, the former a native of Pennsylvania, born April 20, 1816. The mother was born March 18, 1820, and their marriage occurred on the 13th of September, 1838. The father was prominent in democratic circles and was assessor of Jackson township. He passed away in October, 1893, when more than seventy-seven years of age, while his wife reached the advanced age of eighty-one years. Their children, seven in number, were as follows: Mrs. Mary Ann Landis, of Shelby Mrs, Barbara Ellen Landis, now deceased; Sarah J., now Mrs. Miller; Mrs. Elizabeth Winton who has departed this life; Willard S., of Lima, Ohio; Elmer, who has departed this life; and Clara, who died at the age of two years. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Miller has been blessed with nine children, as follows: Willard A., a resident of Kansas; Ida, the wife of Isaac Stein, of Plymouth township; Clara, at home; George, of Cass township; Cora, who died at the age of eleven years ; Florence, the wife of William Bushey, of Shelby; Ira, of Cass township; Jennie, a resident of Angola, Indiana; and Charles, at home. 1052 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY Mr. Miller's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the republican party. He has never been an office seeker, however, preferring to give his undivided time and attention to his private business affairs. He has brooked no obstacles that could be overcome by honest and persistent effort, and this, coupled with his sound judgment and excellent business ability, has won him the deserved success which is today his, and now in the evening of life he can look back. over a life well spent, enjoying the comforts and many luxuries which have been made possible by his former life of activity and usefulness. HON. W. S. CAPPELLER. Among the prominent men of Mansfield the Hon. W. S. Cappeller is in the front rank for everything that represents good citizenship, public enterprise and business push. By his observance of fundamental rules of business, based upon rectitude and fidelity to the confidences reposed in him, he has won the highest public esteem, resulting in his success. Mr. Cappeller has done more for the success, growth and upbuilding of the city of Mansfield than has any other man within its borders. The ability of a man to rise above the ranks and attain a position of prominence in the world presupposes a strength above the average, a stability of character that will endure all discouragements and disappointments and in the end triumph over every impediment that obstructs the pathway of success. Mr. Cappeller is a gentleman who has obtained honor in the state of Ohio by his personal merit, his integrity of character and a strict adherence to the highest standard of principles. He has not only achieved an enviable reputation as the editor of the Mansfield Daily News, but he is well known throughout the state as an aggressive and uncompromising republican, and few gatherings of any importance are considered complete without his presence. Mr. Cappeller was born in Somerset county,. Pennsylvania, in 1839, and after attending the public schools, finished his education at Farmers College, located near Cincinnati. He was chairman of the republican state committee in 1880, 1886, 1887 and 1888, during which time his management of the campaigns was characterized by great executive ability. He was state commissioner of railroads and telegraphs of Ohio in 1887, 1888 and 1889, and while in office he amicably adjusted, satisfactory to all concerned, matters of difference between railroads and employes, alleged freight discriminations and other complicated questions referred to his department for arbitration. Mr. Cappeller came to Mansfield in the spring of 1885 and established the Daily News, the first daily paper published in this part of Ohio. The beginning was a modest one; the way was beset with obstacles, but the indomitable will of Mr. Cappeller would not bend, and by perseverance, patience, application and good management the Daily News secured a firm footing, and today ocupies its own home, a four-story brick building especially erected by him for its use, and is equipped with type-setting machines, fast web color perfecting presses and receives associated press reports direct to HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1055 operators in the office. The News is one of the leading republican newspapers in north-central Ohio, is a live, up-to-date sheet and enjoys the distinction of being one of the most widely quoted papers in Ohio. In 1886 Mr. Cappeller headed the call for the organization of the Ohio Associated Dailies and was president of the organization for several years. He was president of the National Editorial Association 1892-1893 and with George W. Childs took part in the opening exercises of the Childs-Drexel Printers Home at Colorado Springs, May, 1892. Mr. Cappeller, while auditor of Hamilton county was the author of "The Taxpayer's Manual," a work on taxation of individuals, banks, and corporations which was highly endorsed by the leading judges and lawyers of the state. For a number of years Mr. Cappeller has been prominent in a number of fraternal orders and in 1878 was grand master of Ohio of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Cappeller was elected and served as president of the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce for the years 1902, 1903, 1904, 1905. The Ohio State Journal recently had this to say about the subject of this sketch: "The Hon. W. S. Cappeller is well known as a man of broad views and unfaltering in his allegiance to his party and friends. At home, in the sanctum or on the stump, he is ever the courteous, genial gentleman, whose pleasing address and fine social qualities have drawn about him a large circle of friends, and these same attributes, combined with industry and honesty of purpose, have conduced to bring about the success which he now, in the prime of life, is enjoying." Mr. Cappeller is now serving his second term as postmaster of Mansfield; has done a great deal for the benefit of the city and is a man in whom our citizens take a commendable pride. MILTON W. GRIFFITH. Milton W. Griffith, who is living on section 23, Plymouth township, was born in Crawford county about three miles west of his present home, December 19, 1852. His parents were John and Elmiro (Trago) Griffith. The father was born on the farm where his son Milton now resides and represented one of the old Ohio families, his parents being Benjamin and 'Priscilla (Hultz) Griffith, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. Benjamin Griffith was born in Bedford county, that state, and came to Ohio in 1819, entering from the government one hundred and sixty acres of land. He afterward returned to Pennsylvania, was married, and with his young wife came to Ohio the following year. He had built a cabin on his first visit and it is still standing upon the Griffith farm, one of the mute reminders of the many changes which have occurred as the county has taken on all of the evidences of a modern civilization. He cleared away the timber and brush and brought the farm under cultivation. He lived in true pioneer style, occupying the log cabin, while a log barn was used to shelter the cattle and horses. He took an active 1056 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY and helpful part in the development and upbuilding of this portion of the state and was prominent in community affairs. He became one of the first justices of the peace in his township and so served until his death. His family numbered five children : John ; Levi, who died in this county; Mrs. Dicilla Kirkendall, deceased; Mrs. Jennie Pattent, of Mount Pleasant, Michigan; and David, who died of fever in Cincinnati while attending school there. John Griffith, the father of our subject, Was born on the old homestead farm and his entire life was spent upon this place, with the exception of about seven years passed in Crawford county after his marriage. His wife was a native of Crawford county. His death occurred at the age of sixty-four years, while Mrs. Griffith passed away in 1877 at the age of fifty-five years. An earnest Christian man, he held membership in the Baptist church, and the cause of education found in him a faithful friend who did active service in behalf while filling many school offices. His political allegiance was given to the republican party. Unto Mr. and Mrs. John Griffith were born fou children : Milton W.; Sarah, wife of J. C. Werchkeel, of Portland, Oregon: Orissa, the wife of Otis Moore; of Middletown; New York; and Howard, of Crawford county, Ohio: Milton W. Griffith was reared to farm life, spending his first seven years on the farm where he was born and then coming with his parents to the farm upon which he now resides. It has since been his home with the exception of a. period of two Years passed in Ellsworth; Kansas, where he engaged in the hardware business soon after his marriage. He now owns and cultivates seventy-five acres of land on section 23, Plymouth township; which is a part of the claim that was entered from the government by his grandfather, but in addition to the tilling of the soil he also works at the carpenter's trade and leads a life of activity and enterprise. In 1876 Milton Griffith was married to Miss Amanda Morse, a native of Crawford county, Ohio, and a daughter of Amos and Mahitable (Carlisle) Morse, both of whom were natives of New York. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Griffith have been born four children: Frank; Bertha, wife of Harry Oswiler, of Shelby; and Lucy and Harry, both at home. Mr. Griffith is now filling the office of justice of the peace and has been the only one in the southern part of the township for twenty-eight years His decisions are strictly fait and impartial. He has been president of the board of education of Plymouth township and has held various school offices the duties of which he has discharged with promptness and fidelity. In politics he is a republican and socially he is connected with Paris Lodge, I. 0. 0. F. of Plymouth. All who know him esteem him for his genuine worth, as he is classed with the representative agriculturists of the community and is always loyal to the work of public progress here. JESSE CASHELL. Jesse Cashen, residing on his valuable .farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 12, Washington township, was born in Medina county, Ohio March 19, 1841, his parents being George and Sarah (McDonald) Cashell, the HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1057 former born near Wheeling, West Virginia, in April, 1802, and the latter in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1812. After leaving his native state the father was married in Mifflin township, Richland county, Ohio, in 1838, and subsequently located in Medina county, Ohio, where he lived for five years. On the expiration of that period he came to Richland county, purchasing forty acres of land which is now a part of his son's farm. He cleared the land and developed a good property, later adding forty acres to his original purchase. Here he was successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits until called to his final rest on the 20th of May, 1875, the county thus losing one of its honored and respected pioneers. He owned and operated the first threshing machine ever brought into the county. He was a stanch republican in his political views and was a public-spirited and enterprising citizen. His wife survived him until April, 1893, when she, too, passed away. Unto this worthy couple were 'born three children, namely : Wesley, whose death occurred in 1907 at the age of sixty-eight years; Jesse, of this review; and Chester, who died in 1891. Jesse Cashell was but three years of age when brought by his parents to Richland county and he was reared to farm life, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. At the outbreak of the Civil war in April, 1861, he enlisted for three months' service as a member of Company D, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and in October, 1861, reenlisted in Company C, Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In 1864 he once more enlisted in the same company and regiment, taking advantage of the veteran enlistment and receiving a bounty of four hundred dollars. He participated in the engagements of Stone River, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Rocky Face Ridge, Dalton, Kennesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, Lovejoy Station, Adairsville, Georgia, and Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville, Tennessee. Many hazardous experiences fell to his lot and a number of times holes were shot in his clothing. On one occasion when he leaned over to assist a wounded comrade to the rear a bullet struck him in the crown of the head and passed out through his hat band. At another time his clothes were cut across his breast but he escaped serious injury, and was one of two men who took part in all of the engagements and were Uninjured out of ninety-eight members of his company who left Mansfield. He was honorably discharged in December, 1865, and mustered out at Columbus, arriving home on the 4th of January, 1866. He had been a loyal defender of the Union for four years and six months; which is a longer period of nice than that of any other Civil war soldier in the county. In the darkest hour of our country's history he stood loyally by the Union and fought bravely until its supremacy had been established forevermore. On again taking up the pursuits of civil life Mr. Cashell rented from his father the place which he now owns, thus continuing its operation until his father's death, when he purchased the interest of the other heirs in the property. He now has a highly improved farm of one hundred and twenty acres, uipped with all the conveniences and accessories of a model property of the ntieth century, and was successfully engaged in its cultivation until the spring of 1908, when he rented the place. He is well and favorably known 1058 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY throughout the community as a prosperous and enterprising citizen, whose aid and influence are ever given on the side of right, truth and progress. On the 19th of November, 1861, Mr. Cashell was united in marriage to Miss Margaret J. Patterson, whose birth occurred in Lexington, Ohio, December 3, 1840, her parents being Milo and Catherine (Statemiller) Pattterson natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson were married in this county, locating in Lexington, where the former followed blacksmithing for a number of years. He passed away .in 1878 at the age of sixty-six years, while his wife's death had occurred in 1860, when she was forty-seven years of age. Of their ten children, five still survive, as follows: Mrs. Cashell; Mrs. Axie Reynolds, of Mansfield, Ohio ; Harriet, who likewise makes her home in Mansfield; Mrs. Mary Gyher and Charles, also residents of Mansfield. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cashel have been born five children: George, a resident of Madison township, married Miss Clara McCullough and they have two children, Hobart and Jesse Lewis. Willard, now deceased, wedded Marry Ann Marks and had three children: Ethel, now the wife of Charles Balliet; Stella and Orpha. Charles, a resident of Mansfield, married Addie Beck and they have two children, Hazel and Jesse Ray. Sarah is at home. One child died in infancy. In his political views Mr. Cashell is a stalwart republican, while fraternally he is connected with Lucas Lodge, No. 224, I. O. O. F. Both he and his wife are devoted and faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Mansfield, and are widely known and highly esteemed as worthy representatives of old pioneer families of the county. FRANK S. CULP. Frank S. Culp, engaged in the practice of law at Butler and manifesting in his professional career an ability which promises well for future success, was born in Marion, Ohio, July 26, 1874, his parents being Jacob and MaryKatharine (Fullmer) Culp. The father was born in Germany on the 10th of April, 1829, and the mother's birth occurred in the same country, November 18, 1836. She crossed the Atlantic to the new world in 1854, when a young lady of seventeen years, and Jacob Culp made the long voyage across the ocean. in 1856. He first located in Marion, Ohio, and in 1858 was married. He is a stone-mason and followed his trade in Marion for twenty years, being closely associated with building operations in the city during that time. He was an excellent workman and many contracts were therefore award him, so that as the years passed he prospered in his undertakings and acquired through his well directed labors a handsome competence which enabled him to live retired. He died April 4, 1896, and his widow now resides on the farm near La Rue, Marion county. Their family numbered ten children: Jacob W., a resident of Mead, Kansas; Susan D., the wife of Henry E. Muth, of Mansfield; John H., who lives near Mount Victory, Ohio; Charles, whose home is in Delaware county, this state; George, deceased; Mary, the wife of George E. Muth, of Mansfield; one who died in infancy; W. A., a of Columbus; Frank S., of this review and S. Arthur, who is living with mother on the home farm. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1059 Although born in the city of Marion, Frank S. Culp was only two years of age when his parents removed to the farm, so that his education was acquired in the district schools. He left home at the age of seventeen years to start out in life on his own account and has since been dependent upon his own resources, so that he deserves much credit for what he has accomplished :n life. On the 2d of April, 1892, he went to Mansfield and worked for one summer at the carpenter's trade, but ambitious to direct his efforts into lines demanding keen intellectual force, in the fall of that year he attended the Ohio Business College at Mansfield and was graduated April 12, 1893. He then went to work in the grocery and bakery of E. P. Croft, with whom he remained for five months. He was afterward in the employ of John Frederick, a merchant tailor and clothier, and later he again attended the Ohio Business College. Being taken sick, he lay ill of brain fever and grip for eleven weeks, and it was following this that he began reading law as a student in the office of Donnell & Marriott at Mansfield. He began his studies on the 8th of June, 1894. As his financial resources rendered it imperative that he provide for his own support, he worked for the street car company as a conductor during the summer months and attended school during the winter. Thus four years passed and in the following spring he suffered from an attack of appendicitis that kept him in bed for nine weeks. He then again entered the employ of the street car company, but after six weeks was obliged to give up the position on account of his health. In March, 1899, he took the law examination at Columbus, became ill there and was taken to the hospital, where he underwent an operation for appendicitis that kept him confined to the house for eleven weeks. On his recovery he worked at the carpenter's trade for six months and later attended the university of Ada, where he pursued a special course in law, being admitted to the bar on the 14th of October, 1899. In May, 1900, he located for practice in Butler, where he has since remained. The many obstacles and difficulties which he encountered serve to emphasize the fact that he is a man of resolute spirit and unfaltering determination, carrying forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes. Entering upon the practice of law, he has displayed marked ability in handling intricate problems of the profession. He prepares his cases with great thoroughness and care and his analytical power enables him to arrive at correct deductions, while in the courts he never fails to present his cause with a strength and force that are always feared by his adversaries and have brought him some notable successes. In addition to his professional duties, Mr. Culp is a representative of business interests, in that he is a stockholder and director of the Butler Manufacturing Company and was one of the promoters of the Fredericktown Oil & Gas Company, of which he is now a director and secretary. He is likewise a director and secretary of the Butler Milk Bottle Company and displays in his business affairs keen discernment as well as untiring energy. On the 16th of June, 1901; Mr. Culp was married to Miss Myra M. Covert, who was born at South Fork, Pennsylvania, December 25, 1878, and is the daughter of Rev. W. M. and Eleonora (Wheeler) Covert, both of whom are natives of Pennsylvania, now living at Burlington, Kansas, where the 1060 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY father is pastor of the First Presbyterian church. He has devoted much of his life to the work of the ministry and his influence has never been of a restricted order. In his family were seven children. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Culp have been born two children: Frances L., born February 11, 1904; and Katherine E., born February 15, 1906. The parents are both members of the Evangelical church and are prominent socially, while their own home is attractive by reason of its warm hearted hospitality. In his political views Mr. Culp, is a stalwart democrat and is always able to support his position by intelligent argument. He has served as mayor of Butler for one term, has been justice of the peace for two terms, and at the present writing is township treasurer. He also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, his membership being in the lodge at Butler, and he is connected with the Knights of the Maccabees at Mansfield For three terms he has been district deputy in the Odd Fellows organization and is very prominent in its ranks. The life record of Mr. Culp is another proof of the fact that: "The man who wins is the man who works, The man who toils while the next man shirks." Throughout his entire life he has utilized his advantages in every possible way and while he has met obstacles and difficulties that would have utterly disheartened and discouraged many another, his resolute purpose has enabled him to triumph over these and to make substantial progress where others would have met failure. JOHN M. SAWHILL. John M. Sawhill, who is pleasantly located on a farm of seventy acres on section 16, Springfield township, and is now carefully and successfully conducting general agricultural interests, is numbered among the veterans of the Civil war and as such has a splendid military record, characterized al all times by that fidelity to duty Which was the strength of the Union army A native of Guernsey county, Ohio, he was born near Gibson station, February 11, 1841, his parents being James and Mary (Todd) Sawhill. The mother was born near West Alexandria, Pennsylvania, on the Virginia line. Her people came from County Derry, Ireland, while James Sawhill was of Scotch-Irish extraction. Both parents of our subject were born in the year 1807, and following their marriage in 1824 they settled in Guernsey county, Ohio, near Gibson station, where they spent their remaining days, the father passing away in 1876 and the mother in 1857. They were laid to rest in the cemetery at Washington, Guernsey county. Their family numbered seven children : William T. died in 1862. S. H. served for three months in the One Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and in the battle had a musket in his hand torn to pieces but he remained uninjured. He died, however, in 1876. Alexander passed away in 1882. John M. is the next of HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1061 the family. Sarah is the wife of Jerry J. Rhodes, living near New Concord, Muskingum county, Ohio. Susan is the wife of John A. McGee, a carpenter and designer of Zanesville, Ohio. J. T., the youngest of the family, is a railroad man at Missoula, Montana. John M. Sawhill pursued his education in the district schools of Guernsey county, Ohio, and in the academy at Washington. While there pursuing his studies the Civil war broke out and, like Major McKinley and other Ohio soldiers, dropped his Latin grammar and shouldered a Springfield rifle, with which he started for the front as a member of Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He had enlisted at Cambridge, the regiment there mobilizing, it being composed of members who resided in Guernsey, Muskingum, Coshocton and Morgan counties, Ohio. The regiment was first commanded by Colonel. Ball and later by Lieutenant Colonel Granger, who was afterward judge of the circuit court at Zanesville, Ohio. Mr. Sawhill served throughout the entire period of hostilities and it seemed that his regiment was always in the thickest of the fray. He took part in some of the most hotly contested battles of the war, including the engagements at Winchester, Brandy Station, the Wilderness and Spottsylvania, where the battle wagedthree days and again for six days. He was also in the engagement at Cold Harbor. Something of the intensity of the campaign through which Mr. Sawhill passed may be gained from the fact that out of ninety-eight enlisted men who left Cambridge, Ohio, in 1862, in the bloom of health and the buoyancy of youth, seventeen ill and crippled men came back to their homes as all that remained of the old Company B; While in service Mr. Sawhill was put in charge of the division mails for the division numbering ten thousand men, and served as mail orderly until he was captured in Loudoun Valley, Virginia, being held as a prisoner of war until he was recaptured by Sheridan's cavalry and joined his regiment in the fall of 1863. From that time forward he was on active duty in the line. Only a pitcher of water saved him from going to Libby prison. While he was being held as a prisoner of war he was taken ill and was sent to a hospital. As there was a dearth of attendants Mr. Sawhill was trying to administer to some of the less fortunate ones, when an official came through the hospital taking the names of the prisoners preparatory to sending them to Libby. Mr. Sawhill while giving some water to a sick comrade, in some manner escaped the notice of the officer and was recaptured a few days later. At Winchester, Virginia, he was shot in the hand, and will carry a crippled finger to his grave. He was ever found faithful to his duty, whether standing in line 'of the enemy's bullets or stationed as a picket at camp at night. At the close of the war he was detailed to write the muster out rolls. These rolls were written on a parchment about four feet square, lined and cross lined and filled completely with finely written names, dates and remarks, inscribed on both sides of the paper. These rolls must be written without blot or blur and an erasure was not allowed. If a mistake was made one must start on another sheet of parchment. Mr. Sawhill completed five copies, accomplishing it in the prescribed manner. He retained one copy of the rolls as a memento of the war and at the same time it is splendid evidence of his exceptional clerical ability. 1062 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY When the war was over Mr. Sawhill returned to Guernsey county and later came to Richland county. He was married September 25, 1867, to Miss Sarah M. McKnight, a resident of Springfield township, and unto them have been born two sons and two daughters. Clarence, who married Elizabeth Woods, is now general manager and treasurer of the King-Richardson Publishing Company, with head offices at Springfield, Massachusetts. Leila G. is the wife of Dr. D. B. Virtue, a general medical and surgical practitioner at Iberia, Morrow county, Ohio. Edith B. is a trained nurse, who was graduated from the Illinois Training School in Chicago. Roy B. died in 1887 at the age of twelve years and seven months. The wife and mother passed away in 1887 and was laid to rest in the cemetery at Ontario, her death being deeply regretted by many friends as well as her immediate fan, ily. Six years later Mr. Sawhill wedded Mary Jeannette Symons, of Savannah, Ohio. The family home is a farm of seventy acres on section 16, Springfield township, which Mr. Sawhill owns and operates, and upon it he has resided for a half century. He has cultivated and improved the ]and, built a commodious residence and has one of the most convenient barns of the township. In looking over the well kept grounds and fields one can see at a glance that Mr. Sawhill is a man who takes pride in keeping his farm in excellent condition and it indicates his careful supervision and practical methods. He is a stalwart advocate of the republican party and for three yeas served as treasurer of the township. He was also township trustee for six years and is now filling the office of justice of the peace, having been the incumbent therein for a long period. Both he and his wife are devoted members of the United Presbyterian church, manifesting a deep interest in its work. For thirty years Mr. Sawhill has been an elder of the church and has been superintendent of the Sunday school for twenty years, while his wife is a teacher of the Bible class. In fact they are both much interested in the various church activities and do all in their power to promote the cause of Christianity. The life record of Mr. Sawhill in its business relations, military service and official connection and- the church relations is one which commands the honor and respect of all with whom he is associated. JOHN W. CULLEN. John W. Cullen is pleasantly located just outside the corporation limits of Shelby on West Main street, where he has four acres of land surrounding a comfortable and attractive home, which he erected in 1892. For forty years he had resided upon the farm in Sharon township, where his birth occurred August 10, 1848, and he is still the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 2, from which he annually derives a good rental. His parents were Jarvis and Mary (Jackson) Cullen, both of whom were natives of Lincolnshire, England. The father was born July 14, 1803, and they were married in Richland county, Ohio, May 18, 1845. He had left England for America April 21, HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1065 1844, in company with his brother William. After reaching the United States he remained for one year in New York, where he was employed at farm labor, and then removed to Huron county, Ohio, whence he afterward came to Richland county and purchased the farm now owned by our subject. He first invested in one hundred acres and later bought eighteen acres, while thirty-two acres have been added by John W. Cullen. This land the father cleared and placed under cultivation and remained upon the farm until his death, which occurred November 6, 1884. His wife came to the United States as a young lady with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Jackson, the family home being established near Mansfield. The maternal grandparents were William and Charlotte Jackson, who spent their last days in this country. Their family numbered the following named: Charlotte, born March 30, 1799; William, August 7, 1805 ; Thomas, September 11, 1807; Mary Ann, July 6, 1810; George, December 22, 1812; John, September 3, 1815; Maria, May 20, 1818, and Charles, October 11, 1822. Of this family only John is living and he now resides at Muncie, Indiana. All came to the United States with the exception of Thomas and Maria, who died in England. The daughter Mary became the wife of Jarvis Cullen and to them were born two children, but the daughter died in infancy, leaving John W. Cullen the only child. The father was a devoted member of the Baptist church and led a quiet home life. Under the parental roof John W. Cullen was reared, while the public schools and Oberlin College afforded him his educational privileges. He was early trained to the work of the fields and was thus well qualified for carrying on farming when he started out in life on his own account. For forty years he lived on the farm and through the period of his manhood worked diligently and persistently to make the place productive. That he succeeded is indicated in the excellent appearance of the farm and also in the fact that he is now practically living retired. In June, 1892, he built his present home just outside the corporation limits of Shelby, where it stands in the midst of well kept grounds covering four acres. In addition to the home farm, which he owns, he has eighty acres in Plymouth township and forty acres of timber land in Vernon township, Crawford county. He has been a stockholder in the Citizens Bank of Shelby since its organization, is a stockholder in the building and loan association and is interested in the Shelby Land & Improvement Company. He displays keen sagacity in business affairs and his investments have been carefully made. In October, 1872, Mr. Cullen was married to Miss Sarah I. Myers, who was born January 1, 1849, and is a daughter of John and Mary (Hockinsmith) Myers, who were natives of Pennsylvania, the former born in 1808 and the latter in 1811. They went to Stark county, Ohio, with their respective parents and were married there, after which they removed to Richland county, settling on a farm three miles west of Shelby, where their remaining days were passed. Mr. Myers died at the age of eighty-seven years, while his wife died at the age of eighty-one. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cullen have been born three children : Corrine, who died at the age of nine months; Trenna, the wife of Reuben Sutter, of Shelby ; and Ethel, at home. 1066 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY In his political views Mr. Cullen has always been a stalwart republican and keeps well informed on the questions of the. day. He has served as township trustee for one term, but has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking. He belongs to the Lutheran church, to the support of which he contributes generously. He stands today as one of the prominent citizens of Richland county, a man widely recognized for his excellent business ability, for his loyalty in citizenship and his progressiveness in every relation of life. He has many stanch friends and well deserves mention in this volume. HENRY F. FACKLER. Henry F. Fackler is one of the most prosperous wheat raisers of Richland county, but while his farming interests are now of large proportion there was a time in his life when his assets were much more limited, and the success which he is now enjoying is attributable entirely to his diligence and careful management, combined with keen business discernment. He was born on a farm in Franklin township, this county, March 12, 1848, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Bear) Fackler, who were natives of Pennsylvania where they were reared and married. Abraham Fackler, the paternal grandfather of our subject, was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, in 1777, and his father was Wentle Fackler, whose birth occurred in Germany in 1746. Spending the first seventeen years of his life in the fatherland, he afterward came to America, and was sold or apprenticed on the streets of Philadelphia for three years in order to pay his passage. When the time had half expired however, he was released by his master and employed at regular rates of labor. Two years later he returned to his native country for his mother and two brothers, his father in the meantime having been killed in battle. After he had again come to America, Wentle Fackler joined the colonists in their struggle for independence, serving under Washtngton during the memorable winter at Valley Forge, and meeting the troops of Burgoyne in the north and Cornwallis in the south. When the republic was established he purchased a tract of land from the government, and cut the timber from which he built a house. He married Anna Rank and they became parents of ten children. Wentle Fackler, who was a devout member of the Presbyterian church, lived to enjoy the fruits of liberty for many years and passed away in 1823. Abraham Fackler, who was the eldest of his father's ten children, was reared upon the home farm, and early learned the weaver's trade. Prompted by the same patriotic spirit which his father had displayed, he fought in the battles of Buffalo, New York; Baltimore, Maryland; and others. On the 30th of March, 1801, he was united in marriage to Barbara Hough, a daughter of Henry Hough, who was an officer of the Revolutionary war. Mrs. Abraham Fackler was born in 1781, was of German parentage, and by her marriage became the mother of fourteen children. In 1840 the family removed to HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1067 Richland county, Ohio, where the grandfather of our subject died January 12, 1866, while his wife passed away May 10, 1844. In early life he was a member of the Presbyterian church, but afterward joined the German Baptist church, to which his wife belonged. About 1843 Joseph Fackler established his home in Richland county, settling in Franklin township, where he passed away in 1849. On his arrival he brought with him his wife and one son, and three other children were born in this county, the members of the family being : Martin, of Shelby, Ohio; David, of Franklin township ; Maria, who died at the age of fifteen years; and Henry F., of this review. After the father's death the mother became the wife of Samuel Worst and removed with him to Ashland county, Ohio, where her death occurred. In taking up the personal history of Henry F. Fackler we present to our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably known. He worked on the home farm through the period of his boyhood and youth and in the winter seasons when his services were not demanded in the fields he attended the district schools. He spent one year after attaining his majority upon the old homestead and then, beginning farming on his own account, cultivated a tract of land of one hundred and seven acres in Jackson township for four years. In 1877 he purchased a portion of his present farm, to which he has added from time .to time. In 1879 he bought ninety-six acres in Cass township on the 4th of April, 1893, bought one hundred and forty-seven acres of Henry Sackman ; April 19, 1895, bought ninety-five acres of David Bushey; April 4, 1899, purchased the Woods farm of one hundred and sixty acres; on the 5th of April, 1904, acquired the Hershiser farm of one hundred and eighty-seven acres; bought the Moore farm of one hundred and fifty-three and one-half acres April 1, 1905; and made his last purchase in 1908, when he bought of William Wolford seventeen and one-half acres. Thus by additional purchases, from time to time, he has become the owner of nine hundred and sixty-four acres, situated in Franklin, Jackson and Cass townships, and in all his dealings there has never been a mortgage recorded against him. His home farm is one of the best improved properties in the locality. In the midst of well tilled fields stands an attractive residence, and near by are large barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. He raises various crops, but gives most attention to the production of wheat, and his crop in 1906 amounted to fifty-six hundred bushels. With the exception of one year devoted to carpentering in early manhood, he has given his entire life to agricultural pursuits, and stands today one of the most prosperous farmers of this part of the state. His business methods have never peen such as require disguise, but on the contrary have been in keeping with the most honorable and straightforward dealing, his prosperity coming to him as the reward of earnest, persistent labor. In 1870 Mr. Fackler was married to Miss Elizabeth Lacer, who was born in Cass township, a daughter Of John and Mary. (Blocker) Lacer, both of whom passed away in Richland county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fackler were born fourteen children : Boyd, a resident of Shiloh; Mollie, the wife of Willard Bly, of Williams county, Ohio, Frank and Samuel, both of Cass township; Hermie, 1068 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY the wife of John Riland, of Cass township; Zella, the wife of Randson Noss, of Cass township; Oscar, who is living in Franklin township; Porter, Bertha, Alfred, Morris, Henry and Osra, all of whom are at home; and Richard, who died at the age of sixteen months. The death of Mrs. Fackler occurred July 16, 1906, when she was fifty-four years of age. Mr. Fackler has been very generous with his children, aiding all of them in gaining a start in life as they had left the parental roof and gone out to establish homes of their own. The older sons are all prosperous and leading farmers of Richland county. Mr. Fackler votes with the democratic party, but has no ambition for office as his time is fully occupied with his extensive and growing business interests. In early manhood he had very little capital, but he possessed courage and resolution, and these often constitute the key which unlocks the portals of success. His holdings are now extensive and his business interests very valuable, while his life record is considered one of the assets in the history of Richland county. LUDWICK FRANK. Ludwick Frank is one of the worthy citizens that Germany has furnished to Richland county, he having emigrated to the new world almost four decades ago, at which time he made his way to this state, where he has since made his home. Mr. Frank was born in Shilingberg, Germany, May 7, 1837, and was there reared and educated, receiving such advantages as were afforded by the common schools. Upon hearing favorable reports concerning the opportunities to be enjoyed in the new world, he determined to try his fortune in America, and accordingly, in 1871, crossed the Atlantic to New York, whence he made his way at once to Richland county, locating near Mansfield. During the first year of his residence here he was employed at farm labor and at the end of that time he made purchase of a tract of land comprising eighty-one and a third acres, situated on sections 7 and 18, Monroe township. Here he is engaged in raising the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, and in addition to this he also raises and feeds stock, making a specialty of the latter branch of business, in which he is meeting with good success. Mr. Frank chose as a companion for the journey of life Miss Siegler, and to this union have been born ten children, three sons and sever daughters, as follows: Louis, who is assisting his father in the operation of the home farm ; Alvina, the wife of Fred Snitzner, a resident of Mansfield; Bertha, the wife of Julius Henry ; Freda, the wife of William Peterson, who makes his home in Ashland county, Ohio ; Caroline, the wife of Allen Thompson, of Monroe: township ; Herman C., who is in Cleveland, this state; Clara P., the widow of Ira Balliet ; and Louise, William and Mary, all of whom have passed away. Mr. Frank's study of the political questions and issues has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic party, while both he and his wife HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1069 are communicants of the Catholic church. The hope that led him to leave his native land and seek a home in America has been more than realized, for here he has found the opportunities he sought, and making the most of these has steadily worked his way upward to success. He possesses the resolution and perseverance so characteristic of his nation, and his name is now enrolled among the best citizens of Richland county. JAMES A. HEDGES. James A. Hedges devotes his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits on section 7, Springfield township, where he is also engaged in the raising of Berkshire hogs. His entire life work has been characterized by systematic and methodical management and his capable control of his affairs is noticed in the fine appearance of his place. He was born February 18, 1862, in Mansfield, Ohio. His father, James A. Hedges, Sr., is also a native of Richland county, where the grandfather, Elza Hedges, located at an early day. He came to this state from Pennsylvania, but was born in England and later generations of the family were all agriculturists there. James A. Hedges engaged in merchandising in Mansfield, being one of the pioneer business men of the city, and the spirit of enterprise and energy actuated him in all his undertakings, bringing him a fair measure of success. His business career, however, was interrupted when he went to the front as a sutler with the Thirty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Two years were thus passed and while he was thus engaged he was captured and his stores were confiscated by the Confederates. He was held at Harpers Ferry for three months as a prisoner of war, and after his exchange was effected he resolved that he would strike a blow at the Confederacy and in defense of the Union, and enlisted in the Second Ohio Heavy Artillery, with which he served until the close of the conflict. When the war was over James A. Hedges, Sr., returned to Mansfield and took his place with the prominent business men of the city as one of the organizers and promoters of the wholesale grocery house of Raney, Hedges & Walters. The new enterprise proved a very profitable venture, and as the years passed he gained a very gratifying measure of success. His political allegiance was given to the. republican party. All who knew him esteemed him for what he accomplished in the business world and for the honorable methods which he followed. He died at the age of forty-four years, and is still survived by his widow, who bore the maiden name of Henrietta Good and was born in Miami county, Ohio. She is now living with a daughter in Cleveland, Ohio, and of her family of thirteen children five yet survive, namely : Addie T., the wife of Frank Brady ; James A.; Henry C., who is collector for a large installment house at Indianapolis, Indiana; Fanny N., the wife of James Byers, of Denver, Colorado; and Joseph S., of Cleveland, Ohio. 1070 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY James A. Hedges of this review was educated in the schools of Mansfield, completing the work of the junior year in the high school, after which he attended the Spencerian College at Cleveland, Ohio. He was thus well qualified for the practical and responsible duties of a business career, and started in life as a clerk for George C. Wise, a grocer of Mansfield. Ambitious, however, to engage in business on his own account, he later entered into a partnership with Robert McFarland, in the grocery business. He was not satisfied in this line, however, and after two years he sold his interest to his partner, for whom he worked on a salary for a number of years. On severing his connection with Mr. McFarland he established a grocery business on the east. side of the square at Mansfield in association with Elza Houston. About a year later Mr. Hedges purchased his partner's interest, but subsequently sold the business and went to northern Wisconsin, where he engaged in general merchandising. He afterward turned his attention to the lumber business, carrying on both lines and meeting with good success during his nine years' residence in the Badger state. Returning to Mansfield he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 27, Springfield township, and still owns the property, which he has converted into a fine farm, bringing the fields under a high state of cultivation and annually gathering rich crops. He also raises Berkshire hogs. His success is largely attributable to the fact that his business has been carefully systematized. Upon his desk are to be seen journals and ledgers, etc., that all indicate the careful account which he keeps of all business transactions, so that he can determine wherein lies his profit and continue his efforts along that line. He is thoroughly reliable in all his dealings, his commercial integrity standing as an unquestioned fact in his career. In 1883 Mr. Hedges was married to Miss Rose Lemon, a resident of Richland county, and unto them have been born two children, Glen L. and James Harold, both at home. Mr. Hedges has always been an ardent republican, but has never sought the honors nor emoluments of public office. He became a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in Wisconsin, and both he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church, shaping their lives by its teachings and using its principles as their rule of conduct. FRANK B. BLACK. Frank B. Black, who has been prominently identified with Mansfield's -business interests, is a native of this city, born June 10, 1865. His father, Moses Black, was born in Remelton, in the north of Ireland, and came to America in 1855, settling at Zanesville, Ohio, whence he removed to Mansfield in 1859. He became a prominent factor in commercial circles of the latter city, conducting a dry-goods establishment until 1892, when he retired from active business. He married Elizabeth Blymyer, a native of Schellsburg, Pennsylvania and a daughter of Benjamin Blymyer, who came to Mansfield in 1844. HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1071 Frank B. Black acquired his education in the public schools of Mansfield and was graduated from the high school in 1885. He then pursued a commercial course in Eastman Business College at Poughkeepsie, New York, and upon finishing there he entered the employ of the Barnett Brass Company, of Mansfield, as bookkeeper, where he remained for two years. In 1888 he organized the Ohio Brass Company with a paid in capital of five thousand dollars. This company, of which he is president, has grown to be one of the principal industries of Mansfield, with a paid up capital and surplus of over one million dollars, employing between five and six hundred workmen and doing a business of nearly two million dollars annually. Mr. Black, aside from the presidency of the Ohio Brass Company, is vice president of the Baxter Stove Company and a director of the Citizens National Bank, the Seneca Chain Company and the Humphryes Manufacturing Company. On the 5th of October, 1892, Mr. Black was united in marriage to Miss Jessie M. Baxter, and they have four children : John, Robert, Donald and Roger. ISAAC McCOLLOUGH. Isaac McCollough, now deceased, was numbered among the honored veterans of the Civil war, and at his death, which occurred August 7, 1908, was living in honorable retirement in Butler, making his home with his sons. He received the veneration and respect which should ever be accorded one of advanced years, whose life had been worthily passed. He was born in Holmes county, Ohio, December 4, 1828, and was the son of Joseph and Margaret (Matheson) McCollough. The father was born in Pennsylvania in 1801, and the mother's birth occurred in 1803. They were married in Holmes county, Ohio, and cast in their lot among the early settlers of Richland county, where they remained for a time, and then removed to Indiana, where their last days were passed. Both died in that state when seventy-eight years of age. Their family numbered seven children, but only two are now living: Mrs. Elizabeth Jolly, who is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Mrs. Jane Finley. of Huntington, Indiana. In retrospect one can see Isaac McCollough as a young boy in the early half of the nineteenth century, working the fields with. the primitive farm machinery then in vogue, or conning his lessons in the little district schoolhouse, where few branches were taught, beyond reading, writing and arithmetic. However, he kept in touch with the progressive thought of the world, and made substantial progress in business lines. He continued to engage in farming until 1862, when he put aside all business and personal considerations and joined the Union army, becoming a member of Company B, Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for exactly three year. He participated in the siege of Vicksburg, the battles of Hickory Post and Arkansas River, and in many other engagements and skirmishes, but 1072 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY although he was frequently in hazardous positions the only injury which he sustained was to have two ribs broken. He was always faithful to his duty,whether it called him to the lonely picket line or stationed him on the line. After the war Mr. McCollough removed to Richland county and purchased forty acres of land in Worthington township. This he cultivated and improved, and in connection with agricultural pursuits he worked at the carpenter's trade, which he learned when a boy and which he had followed prior to the war. Some years ago he sold his land and removed to Butler, where he spent his remaining days, making his home with his sons. Mr. McCollough was married in 1850 to Miss Eleanor Roberts, who was born in Holmes county, Ohio. They traveled life's journey together for many years and were then separated by the death of the wife, who passed away in 1907, at the age of seventy-seven years. Their family numbered sevem children : Joseph, Isaac and Logan., who are residents of Butler; Allurah, Emeline and Mary, all now deceased; and Louisa J., the wife of Daniel Bemiller, whose home is in Worthington township. Mrs. McCollough was a member of the. Disciples church, and was an earnest, consistent Christian woman, whose death was deeply deplored by all who knew her. Mr. McCollough voted with the democracy after age conferred upon him the right of franchise, and although he never sought nor desired office, he was always loyal to the best interests of the community, and did everthing in his power to further public progress. Although he reached the eightieth milestone on life's journey, in spirit and interests he seemed in his prime. He was well known in the county where he had so long resided and here received the respect of rich and poor, old and young. JOHN C. HULL. John C. Hull, owning and operating a well improved farm of two hundred and twenty acres on section 2, Washington township, was born on this farm on the 25th of October, 1844, his parents being John and Rachel (Snyder) Hull, the former born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, March 8, 1814, and the latter in Richland county, Ohio. In his boyhood the father accompanied his parents on their removal westward, locating on the farm which is now the home of our subject. The land had to be cleared of the timber and the grandfather erected a log cabin, eighteen by eighteen feet, which remained the family home for many years and in which John Hull reared his family of ten children. He was successful in his undertakings and at the time of his death was an extensive landowner. He passed away in 1891, when eighty-seven years of age, while the death of his wife occurred in 1894, when she had attained the age of eighty-three years. They were both members of the Church of Christ, and were worthy and respected residents of the community. Of their family of ten children, five still survive, namely : Mrs. Isabelle Baker, of Washington township ; Mrs. Catherine Heselden, who makes her home in HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1075 Madison township ; Mrs. Elizabeth Muscroft, of Mansfield, Ohio ; John C., of this review; and Daniel, residing in Madison township. John C. Hull was reared on the place of his nativity but acquired only a limited education, for his assistance was needed in the work of the home farm. On the 1st of May, 1864, he enlisted as a member of Company C, One Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio. Volunteer Infantry, serving until the close of the war, when he returned home and operated a part of his father's farm on shares. The first year he farmed, he paid a man six dollars to plow a piece of ground and seed it in wheat and also paid another man to cut it, and only harvested a crop of eighteen bushels. In 1871 he purchased eighty acres on section 2,. Washington township, 'which he improved, erecting thereon good buildings and cultivating the land until the time of his father's death. He then purchased the old homestead and now owns two hundred and twenty acres of rich and productive land, which he has brought under a high state of development. He has likewise erected a good barn and a commodious and attractive residence, equipped with every modern comfort and convenience. He bought the first machine with which to cut grain that was ever used in this part of the county. It was a combination of reaper and mower and cost two hundred dollars. He was censured by his father for what the latter regarded as foolish extravagance, as the time and labor-saving qualities of modern farm machinery had not yet been . demonstrated here. John C. Hull, however, paid for this implement in two years with the money which he received for cutting his neighbors' grain. He has ever kept abreast with the progress made along agricultural lines and is well known and highly esteemed as one of the representative and successful farmers of the community. On the 24th of January, 1867, Mr. Hull was united in marriage to Miss Sarah F. Leppo, whose birth occurred in Washington township, February 5, 1845. Her parents were David and Eliza Jane (Pollock) Leppo, the former born in Washington county, Maryland, November 27, 1813, and the latter in Harrison county, Ohio, December 6, 1818. In his boyhood days David Leppb accompanied his parents on their removal to Richland county, Ohio, the family home being established in Washington township, where he grew to manhood and spent the remainder of his life. His marriage was celebrated March 7, 1843, and he was called to his final rest on the 30th of November, 1860. His wife survived him until June 10, 1891, when she, too, passed away. Of the ten children born unto them, six are still living, namely : Mrs. Hull, Mrs. Margaret E. Schlosser, of Washington township; Mrs. Lydia J. Pierce, residing in Monroe township; Franklin P., who makes his home in Indiana; James B., of Mansfield, Ohio; and David M., also living in Mansfield. Both Mr: and Mrs. Leppo were devoted and faithful members of the Church of Christ. Unto Mr. Hull and his wife have been born seven children. Ferry F., who is the wife of Robert Grant Byerly, resides in Madison township and has two. children, Ethel A. and Helen E. Eva A., the widow of Lawrence M. Hendricks, makes her home in Washington township. John D., who married Miss Etta M. Addis, is a minister of the Church of Christ, residing in Indiana. Owen Leroy is a resident of Washington township. Ervanna is the wife of 1076 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY Arthur Leiter, of Lucas, Ohio. Asa M. is an evangelistic singer. Ora L. is a minister of the Church of Christ at Garrett, Indiana. In his political views Mr. Hull is a stalwart republican, and has served as school director and also on the school board of trustees, the cause of education ever finding in him a strong champion. He is an elder in the Church of Christ, with which his wife is also identified. Having resided in this county throughout his entire life or for almost two-thirds of a century, he is largely familiar with its history from a pioneer period down to the present time, and that his career has ever been an upright and honorable one is indicated by the fact that those who have known him from boyhood and youth are still numbered among his stanchest friends. JOHN TAYLOR. John Taylor is the owner of an excellent farming property in Springfield township. He has been residing upon his present farm for forty years, or since 1868, and his life of activity and enterprise has brought him a gratifying measure of success. He has now passed the seventy-third milestone on life's journey, his birth having occurred in Lincolnshire, England, January 14, 1835. His father, Robert Taylor, a farmer by occupation, came to the United States in 1855 and settled at Little Washington in Richland county, Ohio. He died in Crawford county, Ohio, almost thirty years later, passing. away in 1884. In England he married Miss Mary Carrott, a native of that country, and unto them were born the following children: Joseph, Robert William and Phoebe, all of whom have passed away ; John, of this review;: George, a farmer residing at Little Washington, Ohio; Charles, who carries on agricultural pursuits at Plymouth, this state; Caroline, deceased; and Mary, a resident of Plymouth. John Taylor, whose name introduces this review, learned the shoemaker's trade in early life, but when quite young he took up the occupation of farming, and since 1864, has been continuously identified with agricultural pursuits in Richland county. As stated, he removed to his present farm in 1868, and for forty years has superintended its further development and improvement, doing much of the farm work himself in earlier years. He now owns eighty acres where he resides and also has one hundred and eight acres adjoining, which property is now operated by his son. Mr. Taylor was married in 1864 to Miss C. M. Scrofield, a resident of this county, and they have five children: M. R., who operates his father's land; Otis, a machinist, of Mansfield; Effie, the wife of Seth E. Cotter, a farmer of Jackson township; Ida, the wife of W. A. Culer, who foliows farming near Lucas, this county ; and Mabel Ellen, at home. Mr. Taylor gives his political support to the prohibition party, and is a stalwart advocate of its principles, for he believes firmly in the temperance question; and does all in his power to promote its adoption. Both he and his wife are consistent members of the Christian church, and their lives are HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1077 actuated by high and honorable principles. In the evening of his days Mr. Taylor can look back over the past without regret, and forward to the future without fear. There is much in his life record that is worthy of emulation and, taken in its entirety, his history is one which commands respect and admiration. He has lived to witness many changes during the years of his residence, here as the county has developed in harmony with ideas of modern progress and improvement. He has borne his full share in the work of agricultural development, and has long been known as a most respected and trustworthy farmer of his township. WALTER S. WALKER. The thriving little town of Lexington has a worthy representative of its business interests in Walter S. Walker, a hardware merchant who is alert, energetic and progressive. He was born April 15, 1862, in Troy township, this county, and is well known among its citizens. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. John G. Walker, were both natives of Pennsylvania and in that state were reared and married. They began their domestic life there, but in 1857 removed westward to Richland county, Ohio, settling ill Troy township, where the father purchased one hundred and forty-six acres of land. With characteristic energy he began the development and improvement of the farm and lived thereon until 1890, carefully conducting the work of the fields year after year and meeting with success in his undertakings. At length he removed to Lexington and entered the hardware business, which he conducted until 1896. He then sold out, and his remaining days were spent in honorable retirement from labor. The journey westward from Pennsylvania was made in a wagon; after the primitive manner of travel at that day. His resources were limited when he arrived here, but he possessed a firm resolve to win success if it could be gained through honorable and persistent effort, and in course of time fortune crowned his labors, making him one of the men of affluence of the community. He was greatly interested in political questions, and although not an aspirant for public office, save that he once was candidate on the republican ticket for the position of representative in the state legislature, he never failed to keep well informed on the questions and issues of the day and was thus always able to support his position by intelligent argument. His life, too, was characterized by an earnest, religious the Lexington Academy, and through the period of his boyhood, youth and faith that made him a devoted member of his church—the Presbyterian. He died in Troy township in 1898, at the age of sixty-six years, and is still survived by his widow, who is now living in Lexington at the age of seventy-five years. She, too, is a member of the Presbyterian church and is an earnest Christian woman, whose many good qualities of heart and mind have won her the love and esteem of those with whom she has been brought in contact. Walter S. Walker is one in a family of eight children, seven of whom survive: Narcissa, the wife of J. G. Davis, of Bellefontaine, Ohio; Lizzie, the wife of R. B. Boone, of Lexington ; J. C., a resident of South Dakota; J. S., also of 1078 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY South Dakota; W. S., of this review; Hattie S., deceased; Florence C., the wife of William Logan, of Lexington; and Mary, the wife of Martin Kyner, of Lexington. Walter S. Walker was reared on the home farm, early becoming familiar with the duties incident to the cultivation of the fields and garden. He received a common-school education, supplemented by one year's study in early manhood he worked for his father and came with his parents to Lexington. Here he purchased his father's hardware business, and conducted it until 1903, when he sold that store and removed across the street, purchasing two large store buildings, one of which is a story in height and the other two stories. Here he put in a fine stock of hardware, stoves and tinware, and also does tin and slate work. The store is a credit to the town for he carries a large and carefully selected stock, which is tastefully arranged, and the business methods which he follows are such as commend him to the confidence and support of the general public. He is widely known here as an enterprising merchant and is considered a valuable addition to the commercial circles of the town. His political views are in accord with the principles of the republican party, but he has never sought nor desired office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business, in which he is now meeting with signal success. His social qualities render him popular with his many friends, and he has a very wide acquaintance in the county, which has been his place of residence since his birth. DAVID ARNOLD David Arnold, who in conjunction with his mother, owns and operates two hundred acres Of land in Franklin township, was born in Blooming Grove township, April 22, 1860, the son of John and Catherine (Bricker) Arnold. His father died in 1861, at the early age of twenty-six years, and he, an only child, was reared by his mother. Mrs. Arnold is the daughter of Levi and Catherine (Warner) Bricker, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. Her father was one of the early settlers of the county, and at the time of his death, in 1882, was a large landowner. David Arnold, when fourteen years of age, removed to the present farm in company with his mother, and they have resided here continuously since. The house in which they live was built by his maternal grandfather in 1848 arid is still in a good state of preservation. Mr. Arnold is indebted to the district schools of the county for his education. He early developed a spirit of independence and self-reliance, partly as a result of his ancestry, and largely from the fact that he was thrown upon his own resources in making decisions regarding the conduct of the farming interests to which he succeeded. If he made mistakes he profited by them in the experience he gained, and as a result he has developed into a man of sound judgment and good business HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1079 ability, and one whose counsel is regarded as well worth heeding, as he is considered an authority in matters pertaining to the agricultural interests of the county. He engages in mixed farming, and considers that scientific farming and stock-raising is worthy of a man's best intellectual efforts. In 1887 Mr. Arnold was united in marriage to Miss Arah Whitmire, who was born in Franklin township. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Arnold has voted the democratic ticket. For the past sixteen years he has served as justice of the peace, and for the past five years has been a member of the board of education. MRS. MARY M. SWITZER. Mrs. Mary M. Switzer, residing in Lucas, has lived to see six generations since she started on the journey of life, including her grandfather, father, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Now, at the age of seventy-one years, she is extraordinarily active in body and mind and few recognize the fact that she has passed beyond the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten. She is especially entitled to representation in this volume from the fact that she is one of Richland county's native daughters, and few there are who have so long resided within the borders of the county, or have witnessed its growth and progress for so extended a period. Her birth occurred in Monroe township on the 11th of January, 1837, her parents being Daniel and Ada (Schmeer) Cromer. Her father, Daniel Cromer, was a son of Philip and Elizabeth Cromer, who were natives of Maryland and settled in Richland county when but a few white settlers had penetrated into this then western wilderness. Charles Schmeer, her maternal grandfather, was a soldier of the war of 1812. He was born in 1776, while the Revolutionary war was in progress, and when the country again became engaged in hostilities with the mother country he represented the interests of the republic. His wife was also born in 1776, and both died in Richland county. Daniel Cromer, father of Mrs. Switzer, took an active and helpful part in the early development of this portion of the state, and for a long period was connected with its agricultural interests. Unto him and his wife were born five children.: Serena, now deceased; John, who died in 1860; Solomon and Henry, both of whom died in the Civil war; and Mrs. Mary M. Switzer. The last named spent her girlhood days under the parental roof and acquired her education in the common schools and was trained to the work of the household, as she assisted her mother in the care and labors of the home. On the 19th of April, 1857, she gave her hand in marriage to Josiah Switzer, who was born in Mifflin township, this county, July 25, 1824, and was also a representative of one of the oldest families here. His parents were Frederick and Elizabeth (Steele) Switzer. He followed the occupation of farming, was a man of good business ability and carefully conducted the work of the fields, at all times keeping in touch with the spirit of progressive agriculture, which in the nineteenth century entirely revolutionized the methods of farming that 1080 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY had been practiced with little change for many centuries. He was also interested and active in community affairs and served on the school board for twenty years, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion. He advocated the improvement of the schools and lived to see the structures, which were little more than shanties, replaced by the roomy and well equipped brick schoolhouses which stand today. They are a monument to his public spirit and his stalwart devotion to the general good. In politics he was a lifelong democrat, and such was his influence in the community, because of the unshaken faith which his fellow townsmen had in him, that it was said whatever Josiah Switzer advocated was done and whichever way he voted the township went. Prospering in his undertakings, Mr. Switzer provided a magnificent brick residence for his family, erecting this on the home farm, which since his death has been owned and occupied by his widow. They were the parents of the following children: Serena, 'now the wife of Jacob Charles, who cultivates the old homestead; Elnora, the wife of Victor Gladden, a resident farmer of Monroe township; Ida, deceased; Florella, the wife of William Gallagher, a merchant of Mansfield; Daniel, who is engaged in merchandising in Lucas; Sylvia, the wife of Marion Darling, a farmer of Monroe township; Charles, stonemason living in Kansas; Howard, deceased; Olive, the wife of Charl Hardman, who is foreman at the Barnes Pump Works in Mansfield, Ohio; Curtis, who is living in Mansfield, where he follows merchandising; and Viola, deceased. Since her husband's death, Mrs. Switzer has displayed excellent business ability in managing her land and conducting her property interests, and her possessions are sufficient to keep her in comfort throughout the remainder of her days. She was always a faithful companion and helpmate to her husband and thus assisted him largely in his business affairs, his success being attributable in no small degree to her wise counsel and encouragement. Mr. Switzer enjoyed the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens to the fullest extent, and Mrs. Switzer is held in equally high regard here. DAVID CULVER. David Culver, deceased, was born October 29, 1824, in a log cabin, on section 3, Washington township, just across the road from where his daughter Selena now resides. His father, Solomon Culver, who was born in April, 1790 came to Richland county, Ohio, from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, among the early pioneers and entered a tract of one hundred and twenty acres of land from the government, building thereon a log cabin. He died in 1874, after having passed his eighty-fourth year, and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Nancy Arnet, died May 29, 1879, in her eighty-third year. David Culver inherited the land which his father entered from the government, whereon he made his home until called to his final rest on the 28th of February, 1901. Through the careful conduct of his agricultural interests HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1081 he met with a gratifying measure of prosperity and at the time of his death he left an estate of one hundred and eighty acres of valuable land, one hundred acres of which was inherited by his daughter Selena, and eighty by his daughter Catherine. A native son of this county, he had been an interested witness of its development and progress and had borne his full share in the work of upbuilding and improvement. David Culver wedded Miss Eliza Belle Statemiller, who was born in Pennsylvania, January 13, 1825, and who passed away February 9, 1884, in the faith of the Christian church. She had 'accompanied her parents on their removal to Washington township, Richland county, in 1830, and was, therefore, also an early resident here. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Culver were born two daughters, namely: Catherine, the wife of William Mallon; and Selena, whose birth occurred November 6, 1854, and who makes her home with her sister Catherine. D. A. TAYLOR. The farm of D. A. Taylor is attractively located in Franklin township not far from Mansfield. Upon the plate stands a comfortable residence surrounded by well tilled fields, and the entire property presents an appearance that indicates careful supervision and practical, progressive methods on the part of the owner. Mr. Taylor was born in Franklin township, May 22, 1859, upon the place which is now his home, his parents being Robert and Mary (Robinson) Taylor. The father was born in Pennsylvania in 1807, and came to Richland county at an early day. He was a very successful man, in his business affairs. He was long associated with farming interests in this locality, and his well spent life gained for him the respect and confidence of all with whom he was brought in contact. He died in Franklin township in 1890, while his wife passed away in 1884. He had been previously married and his children of the second union are: Elizabeth C., the wife of Simon Small, a contractor and builder in Mansfield; Frank R., who is also living in that city; Marion R., who follows farming near Mansfield; D. A., of this review ; and Ida M., the wife of John Hafer, a contractor and builder of Shelby. No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for D. A. Taylor in his boyhood and youth. He remained with his parents upon the home farm in Franklin township, where he acquired a public-school education, continuing with his father until eighteen years of age. During that time he gained comprehensive knowledge of the best methods of carrying on the farm work. At the age of twenty-five years he went to Mansfield, where he remained for two years and then returned to the farm. In 1890 he purchased the land which he now owns, comprising ninety acres in Franklin township. He erected his present residence in 1893 and his barn in 1895. The buildings are all substantial and are conveniently arranged for the purposes used. 1082 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY In 1884 occurred the marriage of D. A. Taylor to a Miss Mary Bush, a resident of Richland county. They had no children of their own, but are rearing a nephew, Glen E. Bush. Mr. Taylor exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Lutheran church and they are well known in their part of the county as citizens who deserve and receive the confidence and esteem of those with whom business or social relations have brought them in contact. JOHN SPAYDE. John Spayde is one of the few remaining veterans of the Civil war and he is also entitled to credit as a self-made man, for he today owns a valuable tract of land comprising one hundred and eighty-five acres situated in Jefferson township. He was born on a farm a mile and a half south of Bellville, June 26, 1830, a son of William and Catherine (Houston) Spayde. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, but came as a small boy to Richland county and here spent his remaining days, passing away in Jefferson township. His family numbered eight children, of whom three are deceased, the living members being: John, of this review; Daniel, now living retired in Butler, this state; Elizabeth, a resident of Washington township; Emma, of Jefferson township; and Alice, who makes her home in Pennsylvania. John Spayde, whose name introduces this record, acquired his education in the common schools and in early life learned the cooper's trade under the direction of his father, following that pursuit for twenty years in Richland county. He later engaged in farming, purchasing thirty-five acres of land in Worthington township, where he lived during the three succeeding years, after which he removed to Washington township, where he made his home for a quarter of a century and then removed to Jefferson township, where he has since made his home. At one time he was the owner of more than three hundred acres of land, but this he has divided among his sons until he now retains possession of but one hundred and eighty-five acres, this being well improved and in a good state of cultivation. He is engaged in general farming and also makes a specialty of the raising of stock, shipping to the city markets. At the time of the Civil war Mr. Spayde put aside all business and personal considerations and enlisted for service as a member of Company C, One Hundred and Sixty-third Regiment of Volunteers, joining the company in July, 1864. He enlisted as a private but was promoted to the rank of second lieutenant and was serving in that capacity at the time of his discharge. He gave to his country faithful service, being ever known as a loyal defender of the stars and stripes. Mr. Spayde has been twice married, his first union being with Miss Catherine Secrist, who became the mother of six children, of whom two died in infancy. The four sons who survive are: William, a farmer who resides HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1085 near the home of our subject; Charles, who is engaged in railroading and makes his home in Bellville, Sanford L., a farmer of Morrow county, Ohio; and Monroe, who follows farming in Washington township. Mr. Spayde's second marriage was with Elizabeth Carter, by whom he has four children : Guy, Alma, Glen and Mertie, all still under the parental roof. Mr. Spayde is a stalwart advocate of republican principles, while his raternal relations are with the Grange at Jefferson, and as a memoir of the troublous times of 1861-1865 he affiliates with the Bellville G. A. R: He is a self-made man, who without any special advantages at the commencement of life has battled earnestly and energetically and by indomitable courage and integrity has achieved both character and fortune and is today numbered among the leading citizens of Richland county. GEORGE HENRY WEIDNER. On the roster of county officials appears the name of George Henry Weidner, for he is now filling the position of county auditor, and in the discharge of his duties, has won high encomiums by his prompt and faithful service. He was born in Mansfield, Ohio, March 4, 1857. His father, William Weidner, was a native of Germany and came to America when two years of age, the paternal grandfather locating in Sharon township seventy-four years ago, when seventeen years of age. William Weidner removed to Mansfield and has resided in the city continuously since, covering a period of almost six decades. He is a carpenter by trade, and was long identified with building operations, but is now living retired at the age of seventy-six years. He married Barbara Englehart, who came to Mansfield at the age of seventeen years from her native land of Germany. She also survives, and has reached the age of seventy-three years. They have now traveled life's journey together for a long period, sharing with each other the joys and sorrows, the adversity and prosperity which have come to them. Their family numbered four sons and three daughters, and with the exception of one daughter all are yet living, namely: William E., who is engaged in the dry-goods business in Salt Lake City, Utah; Charles, a blacksmith and carriage-maker at Harrison, Michigan; Frank, a barber at Dunnegan, California; Mrs. William Massa, of Mansfield; and Emma, at home. The other member of the family. 'is Mr. Weidner of this review, who was educated in the public schools of Mansfield, and at the age of fourteen years began to learn the carpenter's trade. He worked at house building and at the Aultman-Taylor works for a quarter of a century, but retired from that line of business in December, 1896, when he was appointed mail carrier after having served as a substitute for three years previous. He continued as a regular carrier for three months, or until May 1, 1897, when he resigned to accept a position as deputy county auditor under Charles W. Fritz. In the fall of 1901 he was elected auditor of Richland county, and entered upon his duties for that position on the third Monday of October, 1902. In this 1086 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY capacity he is still serving, having been reelected for a second term in November, 1904. During his first term the new system of public accounting was installed under a state enactment establishing a uniform system of public accounts. Aside from his official duties Mr. Weidner has various interests, being one of the directors of the Security Savings & Trust Company of Mansfield; secretary and treasurer of the Koch & Fish Company, dealers in books, stationery supplies, etc. He is also interested to some extent in city property, and owns his home, at No. 127 Sturgis avenue, which he built about twenty-eight years ago. On the 9th of December, 1879, Mr. Weidner was married in Mansfield to Miss Effie M. Hunt, a daughter of James Hunt, a brick manufacturer of this city. They have two children; Effie Louise, the wife of E. J. Koerper foreman of the Phoenix Electrical Works, in the brass department; and Florence L., who is bookkeeper in her father's office. Mr. Weidner is a member of St. Luke's Lutheran church, and for many years was one of its trustees. His political allegiance is given to the democracy, and he has always taken an active part in city and county politics, doing everything in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of the party. Fraternally he is connected with the Elks and with the Foresters, and his brethren in these organizations find him a worthy representative. He is well known in this city for the sterling qualities which he has displayed in the various relations of life and is, moreover, entitled to representation in this volume as a member of one of the old pioneer families. I. J. CASSELL The agricultural interests of Springfield township are well represented by I. J. Cassel, who owns a well improved property comprising one hundred acres, on which are found substantial buildings, and the farm, in its neat and well kept appearance, indicates the progressive methods of the owner. Mr. Cassel was born in Sandusky township, Richland county, Ohio, in 1851, a son of John and Sarah Ann (Stow) Cassel, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. The Cassel and Stow families were neighbors in the Keystone state, and the friendship of the young couple eventually ripened into love. However, the father of John Cassel decided to remove with his family to the west, and accordingly he made preparations and started on the overland journey, which at that early day was the method of travel. After they had continued their journey several days they overtook the Stow family, who were traveling in like manner to the west, although neither knew of the others intentions upon leaving the Keystone state. The two families then traveled together for several days, when Mr. Cassel's son Joseph was taken ill, and this forced them to discontinue their journey for a time. The Stow family, however, continued on their way until they reached Richland county, and being pleased with this section of the country they made a settlement HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1087 in Springfield township, near Ontario. When the condition of Joseph Cassel had improved sufficiently for the family to resume their journey they started once more and when they reached Richland county they learned that the Stow family had made a settlement here. Mr. Cassel, however, at that time was not favorably impressed with this section, but his son John insisted on locating here, although doubtless he was more deeply concerned in his own social relations in settling near the Stow family than he was in regard to the financial interests of his father. The father consented, and the two families were once more neighbors, while in due course of time John Cassel and Sarah Ann Stow were united in marriage and established a home of their own. Their union was blessed with eleven children, as follows: Mary Ann, who became the wife of Hiram Taylor, but is now deceased; George F., who has passed away; Abraham J., who was a railroad man and died at Peru, Ohio ; David H., who is engaged in the hardware business in Crestline, Ohio; Sarah E., who is the wife of W. S. Brandt, a farmer of Washington township, Richland county ; Samuel A., who is deceased; Catherine, the wife of John Altdaffer, a retired citizen of Crestline; I. J., whose name introduces this review; Frank J. E., who is employed on the railroad as baggagemaster and makes his home in Crestline; one who died in infancy; and W. A., a farmer of Sandusky township. Both the parents of these children have passed away, the father dying in 1899, in the faith of the English Lutheran church, while the mother survived for several years and passed away in 1905. Both lie buried in the Crestline cemetery. I. J. Cassel, the fifth son and eighth child in his father's family, was reared on the home farm in Sandusky township, while his education was pursued in the district schools. He was early trained to the duties of the home place, assisting his father in the fields from the time of early spring planting until the crops were harvested in late autumn. He remained with his father until he had reached the age of thirty-five years, at which time he purchased his present place, comprising one hundred acres of rich and valuable land, this property being located in Springfield township. He has made many improvements in the way of building a good residence and substantial barn and outbuildings, so that" he today has one of the valuable farms of this portion of Richland county. He ever follows progressive ideas of agriculture, so that excellent results follow his labors, and each year he annually gathers good crops. In 1874 occurred the marriage of Mr. Cassel and Miss Mary Ellen Baker, who is also a native of Sandusky township, and by her marriage she has become the mother of five children, but the two eldest, Maud May and Willuan Edward are deceased. Maud May married C. C. Lohr, and at her death left a little daughter, Glenna, who makes her home with Mr. Cassel. Those if the family still living are: Mary Ellen, the wife of Frank Herdman, who follows railroading and makes his home in Mount Vernon, Ohio ; Fred J., who is a stationary engineer and resides with his parents; and Mossie Marie, who is also under the parental roof. Mr. Cassel, following in the political footsteps of his father, gives his support to the men and measures of the democratic party. For seven years 1088 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY he filled the office of township trustee, while for fifteen years he acted as a member of the school board. He and his wife are members of the English Lutheran church, while his fraternal relations are with Crestline Lodge, No. 266, K. P. Having spent their entire lives in Richland county, Mr. and Mrs. Cassel have many friends and acquaintances who esteem them highly for their many good traits of character, while in business circles Mr. Cassel is known for his straightforward and honorable methods. THOMAS FREDERICK BLACK Death often removes from our midst those whom we can ill afford to lose, who have so endeared themselves to the people among whom they have lived and labored that they seem to become an essential part of the community. Having exemplified in their lives all the qualities of a good and thereby truly great citizen, they leave a lasting monument more enduring than any built of marble, in the sacredness with which their memory is cherished Thomas Frederick Black was one whom to know was to esteem and honor, and he not only enjoyed the highest respect of his fellowmen, but that warm personal regard which may be termed friendship or love, but which draws man to man with ties that naught but death can sever. Mr. Black was born at Shiloh, Richland county, Ohio, June 8, 1863, his parents being James and Elizabeth (Kinsel) Black. The father was a soldier of the Union army in the war of the rebellion, and soon after the close of hostilities passed away. The mother, however, long survived him, and after residing in Ada, Ohio, for some time, departed this life in 1904. Mr. Black pursued his education in the public schools of Shiloh, continuing his studies from 1877 until 1879, inclusive, under the direction of A. A. Douglass, later a well-known attorney of Mansfield. When but sixteen years of age Mr. Black began teaching in the district school at Beech Grove, near his home, and was thus engaged for several winters, proving his ability to impart clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. Ambitious for further education, he afterward entered the Ohio Northern University at Ada, and on the completion of the scientific course was graduated. His initial step after completing his university course was to engage in the book business at Waco, Texas, where he remained for several years, and then returned north to Richland county, settling in Mansfield in 1888. Here he took up the study of law under the direction of Connolly & Laser, a well-known law firm of the city, and after thorough prelimin reading Mr. Black was admitted to the bar on the 6th of December, 1889. He entered upon the practice of his profession well equipped for its duties, and from the beginning gradually worked his way upward until he occupied a commanding position among the distinguished lawyers of the city. On the 1st of January, 1890, he became a partner of W. H. Bowers, under the firm style of Bowers & Black, which relation was continued up to the time of his death. He was an able advocate and safe counselor. Few lawyers have made HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1089 a more lasting impression upon the bar of the state both for legal ability of a high order and for the individuality of a personal character which impresses. itself upon a community. Devotedly attached to his profession, he possessed an excellent presence, an earnest manner, marked strength of character, a thorough grasp of the law and the ability to accurately apply its principles. His style was unusually lucid and clear, his briefs always showed wide research, careful thought and the best and strongest reasons that could be urged for his contention presented in cogent and logical form. Aside from his practice Mr. Black was well known in connection with the corporation interests of the city. He was one of the directors of the Mansfield Telephone Company, was a member of the executive committee of the Mansfield Savings Bank and one of the directors of the Barrow Electric Supply Company. Mr. Black was prominent as a representative of the democracy, which he supported from the time that age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He worked earnestly in the party campaigns, and during the one which preceded his death filled numerous assignments made by the state executive committee. On the 4th of November prior to his demise he addressed a large meeting at Urbana from the same platform with Governor Pattison, and he also spoke to the people on the issues of the day at Gibsonburg, Richwood, Marysville and several other places. On the 22d of April, 1890, soon after he entered upon the practice of law, Mr. Black was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Shaffer, of Chicago, Illinois, who survives him. They had but two children, William, now a young man, and a son who died in infancy. In his home town Mr. Black figured as a leader of the democracy and was elected by his fellow townsmen to the office of mayor, giving a public-spirited and beneficial administration. Mr. Black held membership in the First Lutheran church of this city and was devoted to its work and interests. He was also connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America. He was gifted with remarkable powers, with a strong intellect, an untiring industry, an indomitable will and an ambition that gathered intensity alike from defeat and success. He was distinguished for his tenacity of purpose, was considerate in his friendships, and, remembering his early life when his possessions were few, he was ever the friend of the poor. In the language of one of the members of the Bar Association, "His good traits of character so far outweighed the bad ones that the latter were insignificant when compared with the former." Following his demise the Richland County Bar Association held a memorial service, which was one of the most touching and effective ever held in Mansfield. On that occasion many who knew him long and intimately spoke of the days of his boyhood, when he was a bright and apt student, of his extreme kindness toward his mother and sisters, his splendid neighborly qualities and his marked devotion to his family. He was always a most affectionate husband and father and a man of unswerving loyalty to his friends, and was looked upon as one of the brightest and most brilliant members of the Richland county bar. The resolutions adopted on the occasion of the memorial service were as follows : 1090 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY " 'In the midst of life we are in death.' The truth of the quotation just uttered was never more strikingly illustrated than in the fate of the man to whose memory we today do honor. It is well for the living to express their sorrow and to pay the tribute of respect due to those who have been our daily associates and friends and who have before us passed over the line which is drawn between time and eternity. It is a duty demanded by friendship, by affection and by our common humanity; and while engaged in this duty it reminds us that we, too, are mortal; that we, too, are hastening to the grave,and that when a few more fleeting moments have passed we will be into the presence of that Creator who has given us existence and opportunity and to whom we are responsible for the use of the possibilities He has placed within our grasp. "When one's life has been rounded out to hoary hairs and furrowed cheeks and his head is then bowed upon the bed of death, there is a consolation that comes to the hearts of loved ones and friends in the consciousness of the fact that he has reached the fullness of time allotted to man. But when we stand by the open grave of one who has fallen in the full vigor of physical manhood and intellectual endowment, there is a touch of deeper sadness, a pang of keener grief. It is in the shadow of that grief that the bar of Richland county stands today. Thomas Frederick Black is dead. These five words record the fact that on December 2, 1905, the earthly career of our fellow member of the bar was ended. "In politics he was a democrat, but while a close stickler for his own opinions he was always ready to concede to others the right to differ. In the spring of 1893 he was elected mayor of the city of Mansfield, and at the end of his term declined a reelection. As mayor he discharged his duties fearlessly, faithfully, honestly and with the greatest fidelity to the best interests of the people. He had a good word for everybody, was courteous, kind andaffable in his everyday walk. He was widely known and will he greatly missed. "He was earnest in the advocacy of his cause, painstaking in its preparation both as to the law and the facts, with an energy that scarcely knew any limitation, and had attained an enviable position in his profession. As in politics, so in the law he was a fair fighter. When assured that his cause was just he would pursue the enemies of it with a mailed hand, but he was always to be found waging his battle in the open, feeling that he was degrade himself and compromise his cause by resort to trickery or subterfuge to gain his ends. He could prosecute without persecuting. He was a kind neighbor, ever alert to hear the call of distress and most prom respond to it. "Why he should have been called away in the very prime of life we cannot understand. We can only deplore his loss, extend to his bereaved wife and fatherless child our sympathy. While we realize that no words of ours can 'soothe the dull, cold ear of death, it will be some consolation to them to know that others share their sorrow." Mr. Black's life was that of an earnest and consistent Christian. It is our duty to mark our appreciation of such a man—a man true in every rela- HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1091 tion, faithful to every trust. It was in life's daily contacts and experiences, however, that he won the love of his fellowmen, proving the fact that "it is not from the few conspicuous deeds of life that the blessings chiefly come which make the world better, sweeter, happier; but from the countless lowly ministries of the everydays, the little faithfulnesses that fill long years." DANIEL M. TEETER. Daniel M. Teeter, a well known farmer of Jefferson township, is a native son of Richland county, his birth having here occurred February 18, 1855. He is a son of John Teeter, whose sketch appears on another page in this work. Mr. Teeter received a good education, completing the high school course in the Bellville schools, after which he engaged in teaching for five terms. He also learned and followed the carpenter's trade for a number of years. Mr. Teeter remained with his parents until he had attained the age of twenty-six years, when he established a home of his own by his marriage on the 1st of. December, 1880, to Miss Mary E. Oldfield, a daughter of Abner and Ann (Tinkey) Oldfield, the former born in Richland county in 1834, while the later was born in the Keystone state and came to Richland county with her parents when twenty-one years of age. Her paternal grandfather located in Richland county in 1808 and was the first white man married in the county, he being one of a family of fourteen children. The father, Abner Oldfield, followed farming throughout his entire life and owned a valuable tract of one hundred and sixty acres, located in Jefferson township. His family numbered four children, Mrs. Teeter being the eldest. The only other living member is Susan, the wife of M. L. Pasts, a. farmer. George is now deceased and the youngest died in infancy. The mother has also passed away, her death occurring January 2, 1902, and the father now makes his home with his two daughters. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Teeter has been blessed with three children, but the eldest died in infancy. Those living are Vena and Guy, both under the parental roof, the latter being a graduate of the Bellville high school. Mr. Teeter follows the occupation of farming in Jefferson township, where he owns two hundred and forty-eight acres of good land, and he makes a specialty of raising strawberries. He uses the latest improved methods in carrying on his work and is a firm believer in scientific farming. He is also a strong advocate of education, and believes that the farmer should be especially well educated in order to make a success of his occupation. He strongly favors pike roads, and, in fact, is a thoroughly up-to-date citizen, supporting eyery measure which he believes will advance the moral, social or material welfare of the community in which he lives. Mr. Teeter gives his political support to the men and measures of the Democracy, and has served as justice of the peace and he has also acted as a member of the, school board. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias 1092 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY lodge at Bellville and is also identified with the Grange, while both he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. He has ever discharged his duties with marked ability and fairness, for he is a most loyal, public-spiroted citizen, and one who is highly esteemed in the community in which he has always made his home. DAVID LEEDY GARBER. When Richland county was a frontier district the Garber family was established in this section of Ohio, and in both paternal and maternal lines David L. Garber was a representative of early families of this section who established their homes here on the frontier. David Leedy Garber was born in Jefferson township, Richland county, Ohio, April 3, 1831. His parents were Samuel and Catherine (Leedy) Garber, who were pioneer residents of the southern portion of Richland county. They were prominent in the early days of the county and the father followed the occupation of farming. Mrs. Garber was the daughter of John Leedy, who was the first settler in that section of the country, arriving there in 1811. He took an active and helpful part in the early development of the county as the wild land was transformed into beautiful farms, while here and there a village sprang up, and the work of improvement and development was carried steadily forward. John Leedy was a man of gigantic proportions and at one time weighed four hundred and fifty pounds. His mother weighed three hundred and fifty pounds, and some of her daughters weighed between three hundred and three hundred and fifty pounds. Both Mr. and Mrs. Garber were of Swiss descent and they were married in 1825. As the years passed they assisted largely in the early development of the county, and among pioneer surroundings and environments David L. Garber was reared. He acquired his education in the early district schools, although opportunities of that day were very limited. The school buildings were often constructed of logs and were furnished in a very primitive manner. Comparatively few branches were taught at that date, but Mr. Garber was naturally a bright student and soon mastered the courses that comprised the curriculum at that time. He early learned what hard work on the farm meant as he assisted in agricultural pursuits, developing and cultivating new land. He carried on general agricultural pursuits throughout his entire life. He was a very successful farmer and made more than usual progress in his choosen occupation. On the 8th of April, 1852, David L. Garber was married to Miss Susan Leedy, his mother's cousin. She is still living, having long survived Mr. Garber, who passed away April 5, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Garber reared a large family, who have been a credit and honor to their name. Their eldest son, Aaron Leedy Garber, was married to Mary Etta Myers and resides in Ashland, Ohio. He is editor, publisher, author and minister, and is well known and honored by reason of his life of general usefulness. Unto him and his wife were born HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1095 one son and two daughters. Elihu Leedy Garber, the second son, married Ida Ritter, and has one son. He deals in musical instruments, teaches music and was for a number of years editor of the Bellville Star. Franklin Leedy Garber married Lovina Carpenter. He has five sons and four daughters, and is now engaged in farming and stock-raising, making his home upon the old farm which was originally the property of John Leedy. He also is known as a writer on agricultural subjects. Levi Leedy Garber wedded Alma Mooman, by whom he had one son and two daughters. For years he has been at the head of the normal department of the Ashland College, of Ashland, Ohio, and is the author of a series of study outlines for use in schools and colleges. Martha Elizabeth Garber is the wife of Mr. Shireby, by whom she has two children, and they make their home near Butler, Ohio. Jennie Alice Garber is the wife of Edwin. Crain and the mother of eight children. Ezra, the next member of the family, died when six months old. Mrs. Susan Leedy Garber, the mother, some years after the death of her first husband, became the wife of Stephen P. Dyer and had one son, who is now deceased, and one daughter, Mrs. Bell Keyser, who is living in Columbus, Ohio. Mrs. Dyer is still living and enjoying good health at the age of seventy-seven years. Her first husband, Mr. Garber, is well remembered in Richland county, where he spent his entire life and where he was widely known as a representative of the agricultural interests. He enjoyed the full respect of all with whom he came in contact. JOHN W. FICKES. John W. Fickes, who is now living retired on his valuable and highly improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres, in Weller township, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, August 14, 1842, the son of Samuel and Barbara (Baer) Fickes. His father was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, September 30, 1808, and in 1817 accompanied his father's family on their removal to Wayne county, Ohio, where they took up a tract of government land. In 1831 he came to Richland county and located near Plymouth, where he bought a farm. He remained here for a short time, when they sold and removed to Wayne county, returning, however, to Richland county in 1846. Here they purchased a farm of three hundred and twenty acres, a portion of which is now the farm of our subject, referred to above. This place was partly cleared and had a few buildings on it, but' above all, it possessed the prime requisite for further improvement, that is a rich and fertile soil. The father died on this place July 20, 1886, highly esteemed and respected by all. He had for many years been a leading citizen of the community. Politically he was a stanch democrat and was an active worker for his party's interests, having been honored with a number of offices. He served as justice of the peace for several years, also as township trustee for a number of years, and at one time was a candidate for the state legislature, but was defeated owing to the republicans being in the majority. He was a faithful and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church. On April 20, 1831, he was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Baer, who was born in. Bedford county, 1096 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY Pennsylvania, January 16, 1814, and was brought by her parents to Stark county, Ohio, in 1827. Five children were born to this union, of whom two are now living, namely : Mrs. Elizabeth Brown, of Mansfield, Ohio; and J. W., of this review. The mother makes her home with our subject and has attained to the advanced age of ninety-four years. Her mind is remarkably clear and her faculties unimpaired. Age has dealt kindly with her as her only affliction is that of defective eyesight. J. W. Fickes was but four years of age when brought to Richland county by his parents. He received his early education in the district school and supplemented this with a course in the schools of Haysville, after which he taught school for several terms. During the war of the Rebellion he enlisted August 16, 1862, in Company A, McLaughlin's Squadron, and served with his company until the close of hostilities without a single day's absence. The first year his service was in 'eastern Kentucky and western Virginia; in 1863 he was with Burnside in the Knoxville campaign ; in 1864 he was in the Atlanta campaign under General Stoneman ; after the capture of Atlanta he was under Kilpatrick on Sherman's march to the sea, thence proceeded to North Carolina, where he was discharged at Concord in June, 1865. He then returned home and taught school for two terms. On January 24, 1867, Mr. Fickes was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Backenstoe, who was born in Huron county, Ohio, April 29, 1849, the daughter of Jacob and Hannah (Fox) Backenstoe. The mother died in 1886 aged sixty-two years, while the father died in 1897 at the age of seventy-three years. Mr. Backenstoe and wife came to Richland county from Pennsylvania and from here they removed to Huron county, where they remained a few years, then returned to Richland county, where they spent the remainder of their days. They were the parents of eight children, namely: Irene, deceased; Mary A., the wife of our subject; Anthony, who resides in Rome, Richland county ; Uriah, who resides in Weller township ; John, a resident of Blooming Grove township; Ida, the wife of Ira Pittenger, of Logansport, Indiana; Leila, the wife of Isaac Oswalt, of Mansfield, Ohio ; and Lillie, the wife of James Beveridge, of Greenwich, Ohio. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fickes were born two daughters. Jessie is the wife of F. A. Miller, of Mansfield, Ohio. They have become the parents of three children, one of whom they have lost. The names of the two surviving are Ethel and Ruth. The other daughter is Carlotta, the widow of F. L. Hombart, and she has one son, Russell F., and resides at home with her parents. The family thus experience the unique distinction of having four generations residing under one roof : Mr. Fickes, his mother, his daughter, and his grandson. Mr. Fickes has resided continuously on his farm since his marriage. At one time he owned three hundred and twenty acres, the old original homestead, But he. has since sold one hundred and sixty acres of this, and on the one hundred and sixty acres which he has retained he has had a tenant for several years past. In 1884 he built his residence, which is one of the finest country homes in Richland. county. Politically Mr. Fickes is identified with the democratic party. He is an active worker for his party's interest, has served as township trustee and HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1097 township assessor, and for about twenty years served on the school board at different times. Religiously both he and his estimable wife are faithful and consistent members of the Christian church at Shenandoah, in which Mr. Fickes holds the office of elder. His life has been one of continuous activity, and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of the county. He is at all times ready to lend his aid and cooperation to any movement calculated to be of benefit to this section of the country or advance its wonderful development.. W. A. CASSEL. W. A. Cassel is one of the prosperous and progressive agriculturists of Sandusky township, owning a farm of one hundred and six acres, where he has spent his entire life. He was here born July 12, 1857, a son of John and Sarah Ann (Strough) Cassel. His brother, I. J. Cassel, is mentioned on another page of this volume. W. A. Cassel, whose name introduces this review, began his education in the distisct schools near his father's home, this being supplemented by a course of study in Crestline high school, from which he was graduated with the class of 1879. He was reared on the home farm, spending his boyhood and youth in much the usual manner of farm lads. His first independent venture was that of teaching school, which he followed for six terms. He was then engaged in clerking in a hardware store for two years, while in the spring of 1884 he returned to the home farm and has since operated this place. His father died in the spring of 1901, and his mother remained on the home farm until her death, which occurred about three years ago. The homestead property then came into the possession of our subject. This is a valuable tract, comprising one hundred and six acres, situated in Sandusky township, one mile from Crestline. It is improved with good buildings, including a fine country residence, a barn which was erected by him in 1906, and everything about the place has a neat and thrifty appearance, indicating the progressive methods of the owner. He is engaged in general farming and stock raising, and both branches of his business are proving a profitable source of revenue. In 1888 Mr. Cassel was united in marriage to Miss Sophia Schweinfurth, a resident of Richland county. Three children have come to bless this union, namely : Olara Bell, who was born in September, 1889, and is at home; Charles William, who was born May 29, 1895; and Faith B., who was born April 24, 1899. Mr. Cassel has allied himself with the democratic party, and for the past nineteen years has served as township clerk. He is also serving as clerk of the school board, the cause of education finding in him a warm friend. His fraternal relations are with Crestline Lodge, No. 266, K. P. He and his wife are members of the English Lutheran church, of which Mr. Cassel has served as elder for the past seven years. In whatever relation of life we find 1098 - HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY him, whether in business circles, public position or social life, he is the same honorable and honored gentleman, and no man of this section of the state is held in higher esteem, and his estimable wife shares in the high regard in which he is held. SOLOMON CULVER, SR. Solomon Culver, Sr., was one of the pioneer settlers of Richland county whose name is inseparably interwoven with its history. Different branches of the family had various traditions concerning the original American Culver ancestor. The name Culver, according to a reputable etymologist, is from the Middle English "culver," Anglo-Saxon culfre or culufre, which is supposed to come originally from the Latin columba or "dove." Hence it was originally a nickname when used as a surname, and was applied to an individual as a term of tender personal affection. Colver was an early variant of the name, and was used by Chaucer in his Legende of Goode Women. Families of Culvers and Colvers are found both in England and America but the fact that the name found its root in the Anglo-Saxon culfre is sufficient to establish Culver as the more ancient orthography. In the early colonial muster rolls and archives of the Revolutionary war the name was also , spelled Culvor, Cullver, Cullever, Colver, and even Galver. It is easily proven that the greatest number of Culvers in the United States are descendants of Lieutenant Edward Culver (or Colver), the Puritan who was born in England about 1610, and with a party of Puritans under John Winthrop went to Massachusetts in 1635. He settled in Dedham, was a noted soldier of the Pequot war, and was afterward a leading man of the Connecticut colony and the progenitor of various branches of the family in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. There are certain branches of the family that claim a French ancestry, and there is a tradition, not sufficiently established, however, that Solomon Culver, of Richland county, was descended from a Prussian ancestor who spelled the name Kaulvers, and that succeeding generations Anglicized it to Culver. Solomon Culver, Sr., was born August 18, 1760, on Chestnut Hill, in Litchfield county, Connecticut. About that time there was quite an exodus of Connecticut families to the neighboring colonies of Vermont, Massachusetts and New York, and the Culvers became residents of what is colonial times was called Spencer township, Albany county, but which since 1786 has been in Columbia county. It was in the village of Spencertown that Solomon Culver resided while in the state of New York. In the spring of 1777 he was enrolled as a private in the state militia and served under Captain Ebenezer Benjamin in the Seventeenth (Kings District) Regiment, commanded by Colonel William Bradford Whiting. At one time he was transferred for a short service to the company of Captain John Salisbury of the same regiment. During the years 1777 and 1778 Solomon Culver was called out for tours of duty under Cap- HISTORY OF RICHLAND COUNTY - 1099 tain Benjamin on several occasions at the period of the anticipated invasion of New York by Burgoyne and on account of frequent alarms produced by the fear and danger of hostilities on the part of the Indians, but he was not engaged in any important battles. He served, however, as a guard during the transportation of stores by wagons from Fort George to Fort Edward and was in the retreat from Burgoyne toward Saratoga. He was "invalided" in the service, and in 1832 was allowed a pension by the United States government. About 1785 Solomon Culver married Lodamia Burr, daughter of Samuel Burr, Sr., and Christiana (Cadwell) Burr, of the township of Farmington, in Connecticut. Lodamia Burr was born in 1764, and was descended from eminent ancestors in both the paternal and maternal lines, tracing the line back to Benjamin Burr, of Hartford, Connecticut, the founder of the family in America. Her mother was Christiana, daughter of James and Sarah (Merry) Cadwell, and was married to Samuel Burr, Sr., December 28, 1752. In 1789 Solomon Culver and his young wife removed to Pennsylvania, settling in the beautiful Wyoming valley, a few miles from Wilkes-Barre. There they resided for almost twenty years, and the majority of their thirteen children were born there. In 1807, however, Solomon Culver resolved to seek a home in the Ohio country, which was then being rapidly settled by emigrants from the Middle and New England states. He located near the present village of Fredericktown, in Knox county, but at the outbreak of the second war with England, because of the fear of Indians, he and many of his neighbors went to the adjoining county of Richland, where he and William Ayres, a relative by marriage, entered the southeast quarter of section 4, township 20, range 18, comprising one hundred and sixty acres, on the 11th of June, 1813. The land records of Richland county show that Solomon Culver owned many broad acres in Washington township, and also had land on the southwest quarter of section 3 and the northwest quarter of section 10. A large part of this property he disposed of by deed to his children and neighbors between 1818 and 1834. He resided on the southwest quarter of section 3, Washington township, on the state road, a few miles south of Mansfield, and it is claimed that on this place the first sawmill in Richland county was erected about the year 1816. In 1814 Troy township, including what is now Washington township, was organized, and at the first meeting of the citizens after the organization, on October 4, 1814; Solomon Culver was chosen one of three trustees, and was again chosen at the second election April 3, 1815. Washington township, named in honor of George Washington, was organized March 4, 1816, and at the first election Solomon Culver, Sr., was chosen chairman of the board of trustees. His life in Washington township was quiet and uneventful. He lived like an old-time patriarch, the center of a large family group, until his death, which occurred April 2, 1835, in his seventy-fifth year, just six months after the demise of his wife, Lodamia, who passed away October 3, 1834, in her seventieth year. Solomon and Lodamia Culver were parents of thirteen children, twelve born ere their departure for Ohio, while the youngest child, Frederick Burr