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THOMPSON TOWNSHIP.

WILLIAM F. BENNEHOFF, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born August 20, 1842, in Lehigh County, Penn. His father, Solomon Bennehoff, a native of Lehigh County, Penn., married Ann Rader, and they came to Adams Township, this county, in 1843, where Mrs. Bennehoff died in 1855. In 1858 Solomon Bennehoff located in Scipio Township, this county, where he remained until his death, which occurred June 17, 1884, in his seventy-eighth year. The subject of this sketch, the third in a family of eight children, received his education in the schools of the home district. December 25, 1871, he married Miss Barbara Ellen Royer, a native of Thompson Township, this county, and a daughter of Samuel Royer. Mr. and Mrs. Bennehoff have resided in Thompson Township ever since their marriage. Their children are Calvin Arthur, who died at three years of age; Anna M.; Jennie T. and Jessie Irena. Mr. Bennehoff held the position of clerk of Thompson Township from 1875 to 1880, discharging his duties faithfully and to the satisfaction of the people. He and his wife are members of the Reformed Church. In politics he is a Democrat.

JOHN BOLIN, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was born August 5, 1838, in Thompson Township, this county; a son of George and Mary Bolin. He now owns the old family homestead, where he was born and brought up. He married Miss Mary Snavely, November 30, 1865, and they have two daughters--Emma Jane and Elmira, and one son-Enoch. Mrs. Bolin is a member of the German Baptist Church. Mr. Bolin is a life-long Democrat, and a leading and highly respected citizen of Thompson Township.

WILLIAM BORGER, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born October 18, 1823, in Union County, Penn. His father, John Borger, served his country faithfully in the war of 1812, after which he married Sarah Boyer, They came to Flat Rock, this county, in 1833, and after spending six months in Sandusky County, settled permanently in Thompson Township, this county: the father died in 1859, and the mother August 18, 1879, aged eighty-one years. Their children are Mrs. Maria Eberhard, Henry, William, Betsey. George, Mrs. Susan Eberhard and Mrs. Lovina Wright, now living, and three now deceased. Our subject, who passed most of his life in Thompson Township, this county, married, April 25, 1847. Miss Catherine Dewald, who was born in Union County, Penn., March 12, 1819. Mr. and Mrs. Borger have lived in Thompson Township ever since their marriage. Their children art, Mrs. Catherine Jane Buck, William H., James L., and Reuben Isaac (deceased). They own a farm of 125 acres of well-improved land. They are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Borger is a worthy representative of one of the most highly respected pioneer families.

BENJAMIN F. BUNN, farmer, P. O. Flat Rock, was born November 5,1837. in Thompson Township, this county. After taking the common school course in the home district, he completed his education at Heidelberg College, Tiffin, Ohio. He married Miss Mary Matilda Hachenberg December 24, 1868, and they have been living ever since their marriage on their present farm, a fine place of 165 acres of well improved land, the old homestead of his parents. To Mr. and Mrs. Bunn have been born three children: Corn Elmina, who departed

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this life July 24, 1883, aged thirteen years, eight months and seven days; Jacob Elmer, a bright and promising lad, still at home; and Samuel Warren, who died July 9, 1883, aged two years, six months and five days. Mr. and Mrs. Bunn are members of the Reformed Church. He is a citizen of public spirit, and has rendered valuable service in advancing the educational interests of the community.

JOHN BURMAN, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born December 6, 1818, in New Lancaster, Fairfield Co., Ohio. His father, John Burman, of Pennsylvania, came with his parents to Ohio in a very early day; and during the war of 1812 worked at his trade as gunsmith for the Government at Franklinton, where Columbus now stands; he married Miss Catharine Fisher, of Fairfield County, also a native of Pennsylvania, and settled seven miles north of Findlay, Hancock County, in 1830, and there remained until their death. They were upright pioneers and left an honored name to posterity. Our subject is the third in their family of eleven children. He came to Flat Rock, this county, in 1843. He worked several years at his trade as carpenter, after which he established a steam saw-mill, and operated it for seven years on the place which he now occupies. He then settled down to farming, which has been his occupation ever since, He has acquired a fine farm of 110 acres of well-improved land. He has an excellent water supply on his place, 'which has never been known to fail. April 21, 1844, Mr. Burman married Miss Catharine Korner, daughter of Jacob Kerner, and to this union were born following named children: Mrs. Melissa Buljer, Alonzo, Mrs. Fidelia Smith, Mrs. Adeline Reeves and Mrs. Olive Swindler. Mr. Burman is a life-long Democrat. He leads a life of useful industry, and is highly respected by the entire community.

WILLIAM CLEMENS (deceased) was born July 12, 1824, in Union County, Pennsylvania. His father, John Clemens, a soldier of the war of 1812, settled in Huron County, Ohio, near the Seneca County line, in 1831, and he and his wife finally moved to Adams Township, this county, where they remained until their death. William Clemens married, November 11, 1849, Miss Mary Ann Alexander, born March 31, 1829, in Coshocton County, Ohio. They lived in Huron County until 1862 when they settled on the present homestead in Thompson Township, this county. Here they acquired a fine farm of 340 acres of well-improved land in this and Huron Counties. This they obtained entirely by their own efforts. Their children are Lyman, Mrs. Clara Lofland, Mrs. Lucinda Thompson, Mrs. Rose A. Haywood, Charles, Mrs. Julia Higgins and Alice. Mr. Clemens was killed in the railroad disaster at Ashtabula, Ohio, December 29, 1876. He was an extensive dealer in stock during the last few years of his life. He took an active interest in the educational affairs of the country, and held the position of school director in both counties for many years. Seneca County lost one of its most useful and influential citizens when he came to his untimely death. His widow now resides on the family homestead. cad. She is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

HON. JACOB DECKER, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born January 15, 1809, in Union County, Penn. His parents, John and Julia Ann (Royer) Decker moved to Wayne County, Ohio, in the spring of 1816, remaining there fourteen years, and finally settled in Thompson Township, this county, in 1830. John Decker died January 3, 1854, and his widow June 27, 1875, in the eighty-seventh year of her age. Their children were Jacob, John, Samuel, Adam (deceased), David (deceased), Mrs. Elizabeth Heater, Mrs. Sarah Bargner (deceased) and Mrs. Catherine Harpster. The subject of this sketch married, November 15, 1832, Miss Susannah Billman, a native of Wash-

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ington County, Penn., and to this union w re born John, David, Amos, Milton and Mrs. Barbara Sherck. He retired from his former active life in 1871, and removed to his present residence in Bellevue, Sandusky Co., Ohio. He was successful in acquiring an estate of over 900 acres of land. Mrs. Decker died March 27, 1872, and Mr. Decker afterward married, May 23, 1877, Mrs. Sarah Gardner, born in 1829 in Berks County, Penn., daughter of David and Lydia Slanker, who settled in Wayne County, Ohio, about 1832. She married Joseph Gardner, who died February 15, 1856. She has two sons: Charles D., in Boylestown, Ohio, and William H., near Bellevue, Ohio. Hon. Jacob Decker is an earnest Democrat, and has taken an active part in public affairs. He was called to serve his township in nearly all of the township Offices, including justice of the peace. He also takes a deep interest in the educational affairs of the community. He held the position of county commissioner two terms, and was twice called upon to represent Seneca County in the Ohio Legislature in 1849, and the session following, being the last session under the old constitution and the first under the new. He has led an active and useful life, and the citizens of Seneca County will long bear in honored remembrance the names of Jacob Decker and his father, the pioneer, John Decker.

HON. AMOS DECKER, farmer and ex-legislator, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born November 11, 1839, in Thompson Township, this county. His father, the Hon. Jacob Decker, one of the old pioneers of Ohio, now resides in Bellevue, Ohio. Amos was brought up on his father's farm and completed his education under Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. He twice offered his services in defence of his country in the war of the Rebellion, but on account of physical disability was not accepted. October 20, 1864, he was married to Miss Lucy Paine, daughter of J. W. Paine, and the children by this marriage are Emma, Clara E., Susie, Mary A., Charles A., Mattie V., Nelson J., Myra B. and Byron W. Mr. Decker has taken a deep interest in the public affairs of the township and county in which he lives. He was elected on the Democratic ticket in 1879 as representative of Seneca County to the Ohio Legislature, and was re-elected in 1881. During both terms he served as member and secretary of the committee on agriculture and on claims. He faithfully represented his constituency, and left an honorable record as an upright legislator. Mr. Decker has been successful in his chosen avocation, and has acquired an estate of 300 acres of land in Thompson Township, besides other real estate in Sandusky County. He has led an active and useful life, and is one of the enterprising and influential citizens of Seneca County.

MILTON DECKER, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born August 29, 1846, in Thompson Township, this county, a son of Jacob Decker. After finishing a common school course he completed his education under Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. In November, 1867, he married Miss Elvina Good, and in the spring of the following year they settled where they now reside. They have a fine farm of 120 acres of well-improved land. Mr. and Mrs. Decker are the parents of the following children: Dora, Irvin J., Rollin B., Mary A. and Ada. Mr. Decker is a Democrat. He is an enterprising farmer and a highly respected citizen of Thompson Township.

SAMUEL DECKER, farmer and justice of the peace, P. O. Flat Rock, was born August 20, 1846, in Thompson Township, this county, a son of Adain and Sarah (Romig) Decker, latter of whom died when our subject was but nine days old. He then lived with his grandparents, Jesse and Susannah Romig, until their death, and with his uncle and aunt, Joshua and Julia A. Romig, until they death of his uncle in 1872. He now owns the farm on which he has resided

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all his life. He married, November 5, 1867, Miss Lovina Noel, a daughter of Nicholas and Catharine Noel, and a granddaughter of the pioneer, John Noel. The children born to this union are Hattie C., Mary Lovina, Ida Lillian, Seney Allen and Samuel Roscoe. Mr, and Mrs. Decker have been successful in life, and have acquired a fine farm of 180 acres of fertile and well improved land. Mr. Decker is a Democrat, and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He.has served the township as clerk two terms and as justice of the peace, which latter office he holds at present. He discharges his duties faithfully and to the satisfaction of the best people of the township.

JOSEPH DICK, farmer and dealer in agricultural implements, P. O. Frank, was born in Venice Township, this county, May 31, 1838. His parents, Stephen and Magdalena Dick, came from Alsace, Germany (then France), to this country in 1830. After living twenty-two years in Venice Township, this county, and seventeen years in Bloom Township, they finally located in Thompson Township in 1872. Stephen Dick died June 1, 1876; his widow still lives near Frank's Corners. In early manhood Joseph Dick went to Reed Township, where he married, February 10, 1863, Miss Mary Gerhardtstine, of Sherman Township, Huron Co., Ohio. He worked in the hub factory in Reedtown three years; then went on a rented farm for three years, and in 1868 he purchased his present farm of eighty acres in Thompson Township, this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Dick have been born ten children: Joseph H., Annie, Katie, Frances, John S., Louisa, Rosa, Cornelius, Martha, and Cecelia (deceased). Mr. Dick has for the past eight years been engaged in selling farm machinery; first for Dick Bros., Canton, Ohio, and now for the Johnson Harvester Manufacturing Company, Batavia, N. Y. He has good success among the people, and handles a first-class line of goods. Mr. Dick and family are members of the Catholic Church. He has served the township as trustee three years. He is an enterprising and successful business man, highly respected by the entire community. In politics he is a Democrat.

MICHAEL FAUBLE, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, yeas born February 10, 1810, in Westmoreland County, Penn. His parents; Michael and Nancy Fauble, came to Stark County, Ohio, in 1812, and, six years thereafter, located in Wayne County, where they made their permanent home; they both now he buried in that county. Our subject was the eighth in their family of eleven children. He married Miss Susan Fisher October 24, 1831, and they came to Thompson Township, this county, October 24, 1.833, when the county was almost an unbroken wilderness. Here they began developing a home, and by their own efforts acquiring a farm property of about 995 acres of well-improved land. When they came into the county they had neither farming implements nor stock, and only $41 in money. They camped five days under a tree, until they could get their house raised. To Mr. and Mrs. Fauble have been born twelve children, of whom eight are now living: Mrs. Nancy Wyant, Mrs. Jane Bills, Mrs. Susan Hall, Mrs. Martha Hoeltzel, Mrs. Caroline Weiker, Edward, Mrs. Lovina Neikirk and Michael. Mr. Fauble is a member of the Evangelical Association. Personally he is of robust appearance, wonderfully well preserved for his years. He is of a genial, social disposition and has a large number of friends wherever he is known. He is one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of Thompson Township; in politics he is a Democrat.

JOHN GLASSNER, farmer, P. O. Frank, was born February 3, 1818, in Prussia, twenty-seven miles east of Metz. His parents, John and Margaret Glassner, immigrated to America in 1834; latter died in Schenectady, N. Y., of cholera, as did her daughter and two children, and the next spring the father of our subject came to Ohio, locating, in November, in Thompson Town-

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ship, this county, and here began clearing up his farm. He died in 1863, aged eighty-four years; he was a devout Catholic and one of the foremost in organizing St. Michael's Church. Three of his children are yet living: William, Mrs. Margaret Huller and John. The subject of this sketch was married t« Cathrina Gis, in 1849, and their children are Mrs. Margaret Eherenfried. John, Agathe, Mrs. Theresa Hopp, Anna and Mrs. Rosa Ruffing now living, and four deceased. Mrs. Glassner dying. in 1880, Mr. Glassner married, Januarv 20, 1882, Miss Sophia Siebe, a resident of Ludlow, Ky. Mr. Glassner purchased the place where he now resides in 1859. Here he has 400 acres of land in one body, one of the finest tracts in Seneca County, all acquired by his own industry and good management. He and his entire family are members of the Catholic Church. He has been very liberal in his donations to the church, and has helped to build up the society here. He is one of the leading and influential citizens of Seneca County.

SAMUEL GRIMES (deceased) was born in 1786, in Newfane, Windham County, Vt. In 1816 he married Miss Mary Arnold, who was born iii 1792 in Dummerston, Vt. They came to Ohio in May, 1823. making the entire trip of 700 miles in a wagon, bringing three children with them. After residing several months in Thompson Township, this county, they went to Green Creek Township, Sandusky Co., Ohio, where they remained until 1828, when they settled in Thompson Township, this county, on a tract of eighty-two acres; on the Sandusky County line; this tract of land Mr. Grimes entered from the Government. They led the lives of upright pioneers and left an honored name to posterity. Mrs. Grimes died in December, 1858, and Mr. Grimes in June 1868, aged eighty-two years. Of their children, John (deceased) was a well-knows, public citizen of Thompson Township and Bellevue, holding civil and church offices in each place, respectively (was married, December 31, 1851, to Miss Mary E. Victor, of Thompson, and died at his residence in Bellevue, February 21, 1882, leaving a widow and two sons); Mrs. Elizabeth Hardenburgh died in Ionia County, Mich., in January, 1842, aged twenty-two years; Catharine and Mary reside in Thompson Township, and three died in childhood. Mr. and Mrs. Grimes gave their children excellent educational advantages. Misses Catharine and Mary Grimes took tender care of their aged parents until their death, and now occupy the family homestead. They are consistent member, of the Episcopal Church, as were their parents. They completed their educa. tion at the Granville Female Seminary, from which Mary graduated.

FREDERICK HARPSTER (deceased) was a native of Mifflin County, Penn. He was married, in 1826, to Miss Cynthia Barbell, and they came at once to Ohio, residing in Wayne County until February, 1830, when they set tled at Flat Rock, Thompson Township, this county. He owned all the land now occupied by the town, and cleared up the most of it. Of their children two died in childhood, Thomas died at the age of twenty-four years, Joseph died at thirty years of age, and Lewis lives in Thompson Township. this county. Mrs. Harpster died in 1843, and Mr. Harpster afterward married Sarah Holenshead,who died five years after their marriage, leaving one laugh. ter, Susan, wife of Amos Armagast. Mr. Harpster afterward married Mrs. Amanda Orwig, who still survives him. She has one daughter, Mrs Dillie Vandersall. Mr. Harpster died October 3, 1874. He was a useful and upright pioneer citizen, leaving an honored name to posterity. He was successful in acquiring a fine farm of about 250 acres. He was a member of the Evangelical Church, and helped establish the church here. He was very liberal in supporting schools and churches and was a man active in public affairs.

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LEWIS HARPSTER, son of Frederick Harpster, whose sketch appears above, was born April 30, 1827, in Wayne County, Ohio, and obtained his education in the pioneer schools of those early days. He married, June 16, 1851), Miss Elizabeth Beck, born in Centre County, Penn., October 25, 1829, and came to Flat Rock, this county, in 1849. Her parents, Daniel and Juliann Beck, resided here until their death, the former dying in 1863, the latter in 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Harpster have two sons living: George Franklin, born February 12, 1855, a promising employe of the W. & L. E. Railroad, and Ervin Lewis, born April 12, 1861, now farming for his father. Mr. and Mrs. Harpster are members of the Evangelical Church.

HENRY HOOVER, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was born January 22, 1818, in Lancaster County, Penn. His parents, Martin and Elizabeth Hoover, resided in Thompson Township, this county, the last few years of their lives, having come here in 1850. Henry Hoover came to Thompson Township in the spring of 1841, and here he bought a farm and began clearing it. He married, in September, 1843, Sarah Fox, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Fox, and their children are Henry (deceased), Mrs. Martha Myers, Margaret, Nancy and two who died in infancy, Mary and Lidy. Mrs. Hoover died April 20, 1869. She was a model wife and mother, and her loss was deeply felt by her family and friends. Our subject owns a farm of 140 acres, part of which belonged to the old homestead of the Fox family, and he resides on the homestead with his two daughters. He belongs to the German Baptist Church; he is one of the old pioneers and a respected citizen of Thompson Township.

SAMUEL HORNER, justice of the peace, P. O. Flat Rock, was born September 14, 1828, in Rebersburg, Centre Co., Penn., and came to Thompson Township, this county, in 1835, with his parents, Joseph and Hannah Horner, former of whom, a tailor by trade, carried on the first tailor shop in this vicinity. Joseph and Hannah Horner both died in the summer of 1853; they were among the best known and most highly respected citizens of Flat Rock; they were the parents of twelve children, six sons-Samuel, Jeremiah, Obadiah, Hezekiah, Zachariah and Josiah; and six daughters-Mary, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Sarah, Eliza Ann and Susan. Samuel Horner began learning the tailor's trade under his father's instruction, at the age of twelve years, and worked with his father until 1848. He then carried on the business with his brother, Jeremiah, until 1863. Afterward was engaged for several years in selling agricultural implements, and from 1868 to 1878 he carried on a general grocery in Flat Rock, Ohio. October 19, 1848, he married Miss Elizaboth Harpster, by whom he has one daughter, Mrs. Susan Reahm, and one son, George, both children now living in Tiffin. Ohio. Mr. Horner is a lifelong Democrat, and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He has served his township as assessor, clerk and treasurer, about five years in each office. Ho has held an appointment as notary public about twenty-five years; was elected justice of the peace in 1884, which office he still holds.

ANTHONY KERN, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was born April 1, 1813, in Union County, Penn. He came to Thompson Township, this county, in 1831, with his parents, Peter and Rachel Kern, and they settled in the wilderness, where they developed a farm. The subject of this sketch married, August 24, 1834, Miss Sophia Eberhard, and in 1837 they settled on the present family homestead. The farm was entirely in the woods, and they began clearing and improving it. Of their twelve children nine are now living: Henry, Eli, Barbara, Ann, Mrs. Catherine Fender, Jacob, Mrs. Rachel Yeager, Mrs. Sophia Bowers and Phillip. Mrs. Kern died June 20, 1872. She was a model wife and mother, and her loss was deeply felt by her family and friends.

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Mr. Kern now lives on the homestead. He has been industrious and successful and owns a fine farm of 200 acres of well-improved land, besides an interest in the West Lodi Flouring-mills. He and his family are members of the Lutheran Church. He has filled the position of trustee three years. Mr. Kern is one of the oldest pioneers of Thompson Township, Seneca County and is highly respected by the entire community. In politics he is a Democrat.

GEORGE KERN, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born January 1, 1821, in Beaver Township, Union (now Snyder) County, Penn. His parents, Jacob and Elizabeth Kern, came to Thompson Township, this county, in 1833, making the trip with wagons. Of their ten children, seven are still living: Yost (in Michigan), Mrs. Hannah Heater, George, Mrs. Rachel Zeiber, Edward, Isaac, and Bennwell (in New Bedford, Mich.). Jacob Kern died about 1852; his widow in 1855. They were upright pioneers, highly respected by a large circle of acquaintances. The subject of this sketch married, June 11, 1843, Miss Harriet Lewis, born October 23, 1822, in Cocotoquo Township, Berks Co., Penn., and who came with her parents to Wayne County, Ohio, in 1829, and to Thompson Township, this county, in 1832. Her parents, Isaac and Susanna (Honberger) Lewis, had the following chil. (Iron: Harriet, Richard (deceased), Mrs. Rebecca Stettler (deceased), Mrs. Matilda Stettler, Solomon, Mrs. Caroline Clemour and Mrs. Mahala Hamkammer. They moved to Bellevue about 1872, where they passed the remainder of their lives; Mrs. Lewis dying January 20, 1878, aged seventy-seven years, and Mr. Lewis May 12, 1883, aged eighty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Kern resided in York Township, Sandusky Co., Ohio, after their marriage, and for the last twelve years they have resided in Bellevue. They have acquired 320 acres of land, also town property in Bellevue. Their children are William H. (had three children, one living), Mrs. Phebe Jane Heater (has six children, all living), and Mrs. Hattie Alice Gardner (wife of William H. Gardner, has one daughter, Edith Gertrude. Mr. Kern is one of the oldest and most respected pioneers of this locality.' Mrs. Kern is a member of the Baptist Church.

ISAAC KERN, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born January 2, 1828, in Union County, Penn., and at the age of four years came to Thomp son Township, this county, with his father, Jacob Kern. He led the life of a pioneer's son, working on his father's farm in the summer and attending the district school in the winter. March 20, 1849, he married Miss Tina Sterner, who died August 8, 1859, leaving three daughters: Mrs. Amanda Scott (living in Republic), Mrs. Sarah Ann Huntsberger (deceased) and Mrs. Ida Jane Raub (in Sandusky County). November 22, 1860, our subject married, for his second wife, Miss Leah Stotler, by whom he had nine sons: John W.. Allen D., Ezra A., Mason H., Rufus M. (deceased), Willis A., Emmon G., Eddie A. and Warren S. Mr. Kern has been successful in his chosen avocation, and has acquired a fine farm of 202 acres of well-improved land, including the family homestead in Thompson Township. He also owns a farm of l60 acres near Peabody, Kans., and a valuable brick block and other property in Bellevue, Ohio. He is one of the stockholders in the Bellevue Bank. He and hip worthy wife are members of the German Reformed Church. In politics he is a Republican. He has given his children excellent educational advantage:. and they are taking a high position in business and social circles.

ANTHONY KRUPP. farmer, P. O. Frank, was born in Bavaria, German, April 17, 1827; son of Charles and Catherine Krupp, who came to America in 1833, and proceeded at once to Thompson Township, this county, moving into the woods, where they began clearing up a farm, which they bought of

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George Sams. Their children were Mrs. Catherine Korb, in Sherman, Huron Co., Ohio; Henry, who died in Michigan; Joseph, living in St. Joseph County, Ind.; Mrs. Elizabeth Shandorf, in Ionia County, Mich.; John, in Sandusky City, Ohio; Charles, in Ionia County, Mich.; Mrs. Margaret Albert, in Alpine County, Mich.; Anthony; and Jacob,who died while attending college in Dayton, Ohio, the oldest being seventy-eight years of ago, and the youngest fiftyeight year,. The mother died in 1858, aged sixtythree year::, and the father in 1863, aged seventy-nine years. The subject of this sketch has remained on the homestead farm since coming to this country. Starting with seventy acres of land he now has 337 acres, after having given 219 acres to his children; and they have added all the buildings and improvements which now stand on their farm. May 15, 1849, Mr. Krupp married Miss Helena Eisanbise, and their children are Mrs. Josephine Kiefer, Joseph, John, Edward and Albert, now living, and six deceased. Mr. Krupp and family are members of the Catholic Church, in the building of which in this community he was foremost, and has been very liberal in its support. Being a strong Union man, he donated largely for the suppression of the Rebellion. He is one of the leading and influential citizens of Thompson Township.

DANIEL LININGER, farmer, P. O. Flat Rock, was born August 11, 1839, in Berks County, Penn. His parent, John and Anna (Deckert) Lininger, resided there until their death, the father dying June 7, 1873, and the mother April 3, 1885, aged seventy-one years and two days. Daniel Lininger came to Thompson Township, this county, in 1860, and after living here six months located in York Township, Sandusky Co., Ohio, two years and a half. He married, February 18, 1864, Miss Alary Gilbert, born in Sandusky County, Ohio, January 21, 1844. When she was eleven years of age her parents, Perry and Barbara Gilbert, died, and after their death she resided in Seneca County. Mr. and Mrs. Lininger are the parents of the following children: Creighton, Gertie, George R., Weston D., Lillie B. and Amos Wallace, now living, and John M. and James deceased. Our subject and family resided in Thompson Township, this county, until 1868, when they moved to St. Joseph County, Mich., coming to Sandusky County, Ohio, the following year, and in 1870 located permanently in Thompson Township, this county. Here they have acquired a farm of eighty acres of well-improved land. Mr. and Mrs. Lininger are members of the Evangelical Church. He is an enterprising farmer, an upright and respected citizen of Thompson Township; in politics a Democrat.

HON. JOHN W. PAINE (deceased) was one of the most distinguished of Seneca County's citizens. He was born August 19, 1820, ,and came to Adams Township, this county, about 1830, with his parents, John and Sarah Paine. In his early life he followed the profession of teaching, in which he was very successful. He married, September 12, 1841, Miss Susan Rulo, who died September 5 , 1858, leaving four children: Mrs, Sarah Hensinger, now in sedalia, Mo.; William J.; Mrs. Lucy Decker; and Mrs. Elvira S. Klose, who died in Peabody, Kans., April 14, 1885. Mr. Paine afterward married, August 11, 1859, Mrs. Mary Collins, born March 4, 1824, in Pickaway County, Ohio; she died November 24, 1865, leaving one son-Charles E. March 19, 1868, Mr. Paine married Mrs. Ann McHenry, born in Bloom Township, this county, November 9, 1837, daughter of Benjamin and Anna Huddle, who were among the pioneers of that township (she married John McHenry April 24, 1858; they resided in Thompson Township, this county, until his death, December 20, 1864; by him she had five children: Franklin (deceased), Mattie V., Emma Kate (deceased), Hardie E. (deceased) and Mrs. Anna D. Rule). Mr. and Mrs. Paine have one daughter-Mary K. Paine. Mr. Paine died of pneumonia,

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October 12, 1882, after a short illness. He was very active in public affairs; served as justice of the peace fifteen years in Thompson Township; was chosen to the Ohio Legislature in 1854, and re-elected in 1856, serving with ability and distinction. He was admitted to the bar, and practiced law about twentyfive years. Personally Mr. Paine was a man of powerful physique, being six feet five inches in height, and well proportioned. He was successful in his enterprises, and acquired a large estate. His memory will long be honored by the citizens of Seneca County. Mrs. Paine now resides at the family homestead. She is a consistent member of the Christian Union.

SAMUEL ROYER (deceased) was born February 23, 1825, in Stark County, Ohio, and was a son of John Royer. He married, November 9, 1848, Miss Mary Ann Bunn, who was born in Perry County, Penn., November 2, 1830; her parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Leiter) Bunn, of Pennsylvania, came to Thompson Township, this county, in April, 1833, and here they settled upon tin entirely new farm, which they cleared up and improved; their children are Mrs. Mary A. Royer, Mrs. Catherine Good, Mrs. Barbara Royer, Benjamin F. and Judge J. F. Bunn. Mr. Bunn died March 30, 1878, aged seventysix years and one day; he was an upright pioneer, and lived an active and useful life; he resided the last years of his life in Bellevue,. Sandusky Co. Ohio; he was a carpenter by trade but spent his life in this county on the farm. Active in public affairs, ho held the position of justice of the peace ten years, and was successful in acquiring a large and valuable property. He was a member of the Reformed Church. Mrs. Bunn resides in Thompson Township, this county, and is now in her seventy-eighth year. She is a member of the Reformed Church. Mr. and Mrs. Royer settled on the present family homestead after their marriage. They acquired a fine estate of 400 acres of wellimproved land, all in Thompson Township, this county. Their children are Mrs. Barbara Ellen Bennehoff, J. C. Royer, Mrs. Ids L. Wollenslegel, J. B. Royer, Mrs. Mary S. Friedley, Samuel F., Benjamin B. and Nora T. Mr. Royer died August 22, 1884. He was an industrious and successful farmer, highly respected by all. He and his worthy wife were active members of the Reformed Church, and assisted liberally in building the church in Thompson Township. Mrs. Royer now resides at the family homestead. She is a lady of estimable Christian character, esteemed by a large circle of friends.

JOHN ROYER, JR., farmer, P. O. Flat Rock, was born March 20, 1831, in Thompson Township, this county, a son of the famous pioneer John Royer. He is said to be the first child born to a Pennsylvanian settler in Thompson Township. He endured the usual lot of a pioneer's son, and attended the primitive schools of those early days. He married Miss Barbara Bunn December 4, 1852, and in 1855 they moved to Erie County, Ohio, there remaining seven years, then proceeded to Sandusky County, Ohio, where they resided four years, and in March, 1866, they finally located where they now reside, in Thompson Township, this county; here they have acquired a fine farm of 140 acres of well-improved land; their residence stands within ten rods from where was located the house in which Joseph Parmenter, in 1820, held the first township election of Thompson Township. Mr. and Mrs. Royer are parents of Leander K., Mrs. Salome A. Rubert, Mrs. Lydia A. Wollenslegel (now in Kansas). Cerena E., Jared (deceased), Mary N., John Douglas, Jacob McClellan (in Kansas), Samuel Vallandigham, Emma M., Isaac Williard, Benjamin Frankiin S., Solomon I., Clement L., Elda E. and Lulu V. Mr. and Mrs. Royer are members of the Reformed Church. He is a life-long Democrat, and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He is one of the enterprising and influential farmers of Thompson Township, highly respected by all who know him.

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GEORGE RUBARD, physician and surgeon, Flat Rock, was born December 2, 1847, in Thompson Township, this county. His parents Edward and Eva (Harpster) Rubard, of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, respectively, were married in Thompson Township, this county, and reared a family of six sons and one daughter. Our subject, who is their fourth son, took his preparatory medical course under Dr. Sandmeister, of Bellevue, and afterward attended lectures in the Cincinnati Eclectic College, graduating in February, 1871. He at once commenced the practice of his chosen profession in Flat Rock, and by faithful application to his work has built up a large practice. Dr. Rubard married for his first wife Miss Mollie O. Mull, in 1870; she died June 24, 1881, leaving three children: John Irvin, Blanchie E. and Bertha Caroline. February 10, 1883, Dr. Rubard was again married, this time to Miss Mary A. Burgner, by whom he has one son---Harry E.

CHARLES SANDMEISTER, physician and surgeon, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born February 22, 1831, in Hessen Cassel, Germany. His father, John George Sandmeister, was a merchant in the town of Hersfeld, where he died in 1853. Our subject immigrated to America and to Bellevue, Ohio, in 1851 ; here he studied medicine under Dr. Ovormiller, of Tiffin, from 1853 to October, 1855. He then moved to Thompson Township, where he began the practice of his profession, locating on or near the Kilbourne road. He afterward attended lectures and graduated at the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati in 1804. The Doctor married, October 22, 1860, Miss Helena Wygant, of Sandusky City, Ohio; her parents died of cholera, in 1852. The Doctor and wife remained in Thompson Township until 1873, when he located permanently in Bellevue. Dr. Sandmeister still takes a deep interest in Seneca County as his former home. He has 227 acres of land in Thompson Township, and also owns a fine residence and several valuable pieces of property in Bellevue. He has four children: William, Charles, Katie and Emma. They are intelligent and enterprising young people and have taken a high position in society. In 1877 the Doctor visited Germany and brought his mother to America; she died in April, 1882, aged seventy-seven years. Doctor Sandmeister is of portly build and of a genial, social disposition. He is recognized as one of the most skillful and scientific physicians in this part of the State. He has built up a large practice both in the city and country, and enjoys the closest confidence of the people with whom he associates.

GEORGE SCHOCK, P. O. Flat Rock, was born Mardi 2, 1812, in Union County, Penn. He was married, February 17, 1835, to Miss Rachael Kerner, who was born in the same county, December 25, 1816. Our subject and wife started April 13, following their marriage, for Thompson Township, this county, reaching here on the 28th. Mr. Schock had previously been out here in 1833 and 1834. His parents, George and Margaret (Seibert) Schock, and her parents, Andrew and Sarah (Hendricks) Kerner, all came to Thompson Township in 1836, and resided here until their death. Our subject located on the land now owned by Peter Stotler. He and his brother-in-law, Jacob Korner, laid out the most of the town of Flat Rock (formerly called Lewisville) in 1840. He carried on a dry goods and general store in this place from 1850 to 1854. To Mr. and Mrs. Schock have been born twelve children, of whom eight are now living: Mrs. Elvina Crouse, in Findlay, Ohio; Jacob, in Leona, Kans.; Benjamin Franklin, in Norwalk, Ohio; Mrs. Sarah Kendall, in Flat Rock, Ohio; Mrs: Caroline Leiter; Mrs. Margaret Shadel, in Bellevue, Ohio; Mrs. Elizabeth Harpster, in Blue Springs, Neb., and Prof. Charles H. Schock, in Bloomville, Ohio. Their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, living, now number thirty-six in all. Mr. and Mrs. Schock are worthy mem-

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bers of the Evangelical association. In early life they were Lutherans. The They are now living a retired life, honored by their descendants and respected by' all who know them.

FERDINAND SCHOEFFEL, merchant, and postmaster at Frank, was, born July 24, 1844, in Alsace, France (now Germany). He received his education in the French and German languages in his native country. In October, 1865, he entered the French Army to serve his regular term of seven years. He served through the war in Italy against Garibaldi, in 1867, and in the Franco-Prussian war in 1870 and 1871. He was in seven battles, including St. Barbe, St. Briva, Gravelotte, Mars-la-Tour and others. His term of service ended December 31, 1871. October 22, of the same year, he married Miss Magdalena Reiff. They came to America and to Fremont, Ohio, May 18, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Schoeffel have four children: Magdalena, Mary, Joseph and Anna. After carrying on a barber shop in Fremont for seven years Mr. Schoeffel purchased the store in Frank, Thompson Township, this county, January 6, 1880, where he now carries on business and has a large and pros porous trade with the surrounding country, being a successful business man, highly respected by the community in which he lives. He is also postmaster at Frank. He is a member of the Catholic Church.

HON. JOSEPH SHERCK, mayor of Bellevue, Ohio, was born November 10, 1828, in Mifflin County, Penn. His parents, John and Magdalena Sherck, came to Thompson Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, October 1, 1834, and removed to St. Joseph County, Mich., in 1868, where Mrs. Sherck died in February, 1882. John Sherck, now eighty-five years old, still resides in St. Joseph County, Mich. The subject of this memoir received his education in Thompson Township. He married, August 19, 1851, Miss Barbara A. Decker. daughter of Hon. Jacob Decker, and they have two children: Mrs. Mary A. Miller and Charles M. Sherck (a clothing merchant in Bellevue, Ohio). In 1860 Mr. Sherck purchased his father's homestead at the center of the township-a farm of 160 acres of well-improved land, which he still owns. In 1873 he moved to Bellevue and established a large saddle and harness business, from which he retired in 1884. Mr. Sherck is a Democrat, and takes a deep interest in public affairs. While in Thompson Township, this county. he served as justice of the peace nine years. He was elected mayor of Bell evue in April, 1882, and re-elected in 1884. He has led an active and useful life, and is honored and respected by all who know him.

SAMUEL STEWART (deceased) was born in Lancaster County, Penn., November 1, 1800. His mother died in Lancaster County, and his father, James Stewart, moved to Buffalo Valley, Union County. There our subject became acquainted with and married, in November, 1826, Miss Sarah Wilt, who was born in that county February 15, 1809. They came to Seneca County, Ohio. in 1829, locating in Thompson Township in October of that year, where they purchased a farm, which they cleared and developed. In 1867 they retired from the farm and located in Flat Rock. Here Mr. Stewart died November 2, 1870. He was a successful farmer, and acquired a handsome property. He was a Democrat in his early life, but during the war he became an earnest Republican and remained so until his death. He and his wife were members. from early life, of the Congregational Church. Mr. Stewart was an upright pioneer of, the strictest integrity, highly respected by all who knew him. He was the father of eleven children, and those who lived to maturity were Mrs. Amanda Weiker, Mary, Martha, David, James (now in Williamson County. Tenn.), Sarah, George, Newton (now in Falls City, Neb.), all deceased except. David, James and Newton. Mary went to Vicksburg, Miss., as a teacher in

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February, 1865, and died there in June of the same year. Mrs. Stewart now resides in Flat Rock, Ohio.

DAVID STEWART, railway postal clerk, P. O. Flat Rock, was born April 8, 1837, in Flat Rock, Seneca Co., Ohio, His parents, Samuel and Sarah (Wilt) Stewart, natives of Pennsylvania. located on Section 2, Thompson Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, in 1829. The country was then new, and they began the pioneer work of clearing up their farm. They remained on this farm until April, 1867, when they moved into Flat Rock, adjoining their farm. Of their eleven children three are living: David, James H. (now in Davidson County, Tenn.) and Isaac Newton (now in Falls City, Neb.). Samuel Stewart departed this life November 1, 1870, exactly seventy-two years of age. His widow survives him; she is now seventy-nine years of age, and is living in Flat Rock. The subject of this sketch attended the schools of the home district, and completed his education with a short course under Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. He married, May 13, 1858, Miss Fannie Bunn, born in Thompson Township, this county, April 29, 1841. Her parents, John and Susanna (Peten) Bunn, were married in that township, where they resided until 1867, when they moved to Three Rivers, Mich., where Mrs. Bunn died September 2, 1880; Mr. Bunn still resides there. To this union were born the following children: Ella May, Mrs. Carrie Belle Schock, Walter D., Arthur J., Mary Matilda, John Rolland and Susanna B. Mr. and Mrs. Stewart have resided in Flat Rock since their marriage. He established a general mercantile store in 1859, which he carried on until February, 1870. In February, 1874, he was tendered a position in the United States Mail Service as railway postal clerk, which he accepted, and has steadily risen in the service until he now holds the position of head clerk. Our subject and wife are consistent members of the Evangelical Church. He is a Royal Arch Mason and a member of the K. of H.

JOHN M. TERWILLIGER, merchant, and postmaster at Flat Rock, Ohio, was born November 3, 1839, in Bloomsburg, Columbia Co., Penn., where his parents, Abraham and Hannah Terwilliger, resided until their death. He came to Thompson Township, this county, December 25, 1857, and commenced learning the wire-maker's trade. In July, 1861, he enlisted in the Thirtyfourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served in the campaigns of Western Virginia, taking part in the active operations in that part of the field. He was captured by the enemy June 10, 1864, at Buchanan, Va., and was held prisoner ten months in Andersonville, (1a. He received an honorable discharge from the service in June, 1865, leaving a fine record as a brave and faithful soldier, always ready for the discharge of duty. Returning to this county he again devoted himself to his trade. March 22, 1866, he married Miss Sarah Mohn, of Thompson Township, this county, and by this union were born Sylvia C., Katie E., Etna M., Calvin C. and William M. Mr. and Mrs. Terwilliger are worthy members of the Evangelical Church. He, is an earnest Republican, and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He is a member in high standing of the I. O. O. F. In September, 1881, Mr. Terwilliger was appointed postmaster at Flat Rock, and in August, 1882, he established a grocery and provision store, moving the post-office into the store.

ALEXANDER TITTLE, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was bore March 3, 1840, in Snyder County, Penn. His parents, Henry and Rebecca Tittle, passed their entire lives in that county. Alexander Tittle came to Thompson Township, this county, when he was eighteen years of age. He enlisted in the Third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, September 10, 1861, and served in the Army of the Cumberland, taking part in the campaigns

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throughout the West and Southwest. He was taken prisoner near McMinnville, Tenn., but was exchanged in about fifteen days. He re-enlisted with his regiment, serving in all four years, and was discharged August 10, 1865. He left an honorable record as a brave and faithful soldier, always ready for the discharge of duty. Returning home he married Miss Almira Zeiber, daughter of Jacob and Rachel (Kern) Zeiber, former of whom came from Snyder County, Penn., to Thompson Township, this county, about 1845; and owned a farm of 520 acres; he died January 27 , 1876, aged fifty-seven years; his widow now resides in Bellevue, Ohio; they were the parents of the following children: Almira, Daniel, Wilson, Mrs. Mary Kageris, and two deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Tittle have three sons: Samuel Richard, Arthur and Ervin. Mr. Tittle has two fine farms of 120 and 280 acres, each, of fertile land. Politically he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Reformed Church.

ISAAC WEIKER, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born November 17, 1842, in Thompson Township, this county. His father, Elias Weiker, of Snyder County, Penn., came to Ohio when he was sixteen years of age, and finally settled in Thompson Township, this county, in 1833, with his parents, George and Susanna Weiker, who passed the last few years of their lives in Bellevue. Elias Weiker married Miss Maria Heater, daughter of John Heater. She had eight children, five of whom are living; she died about 1860, and Mr. Weiker has since married a second time, and now resides in Bellevue. Isaac Weiker was reared on the farm on which he now resides. He married, December 31, 1863, Miss Caroline Fauble, daughter of Michael Fauble, and born in Thompson Township, this county. Of their nine children seven are living: Mrs. Cora Bell Garmen, Mrs. Sarah Jane Garmen, William W., Amanda Estella, John P., James Franklin and Jessie Ann. Mr. and Mrs. Weiker haye a fine farm of 160 acres, of well-improved land. They are members of the Christian Union. Mr. Weiker has been trustee two terms. He is one of the most enterprising citizens of Thompson Township, highly respected by the entire community. In politics he is a Democrat.

SAMUEL WYANT, teacher, P. O. Flat Rock, was born March 21, 1837, in Scipio Township, this county. After attending the district school he completed his education under Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. At the age of twenty years he commenced teaching in this county, a profession he has followed during the winters ever since. About the same time he became engaged in selling lightning rods throughout this and adjoining counties; he has continued this ever since, and in 1877 added the business of selling rubber bucket pumps, manufacturing the pumps himself at Flat Rock, this county. Mr. Wyant married Miss Susie Korner May 30, 1865. She died February 9, 1871, leaving one son (Claudie) and one daughter (Addie, now the wife of Alton Heter). June 21, 1876, Mr. Wyant married for his second wife Miss Jennie Brown, of Clark County, Ohio, a native of Miami County, Ohio. They have One daughter, Gracie. Mr. Wyant is a member of the United Brethren Church. Mrs. Wyant of the Evangelical Church.