1016 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

VENICE TOWNSHIP.

JOHN ARMATAGE, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Carrothers, was born in Baltimore, Md., December 15, 1806, son of Roger and Margaret (Hayes) Armatage, also natives of Maryland, of English descent, and who were parents of four children, John being next to the eldest. Roger Arinatago was sexton for the Society of Friends in Baltimore for many years. Our subject received a limited education and first engaged in driving a milk wagon and working in a dairy, an occupation he followed for eleven years. He was an economical lad, and in 1829 he started for the new county, settling in the woods of Venice Township. Previous to leaving Baltimore he had the method of tapping trees for sugar explained to him, and on arriving here, in the sugar season, immediately commenced operations and had tapped quite a number of oak instead of maple trees before he discovered his mistake, but before the season of 1830 closed he was a good hand at the business. He first entered eighty acres which he sold, then bought three eighties, and he has now 200 acres where he resides, located in Seneca and Crawford Counties. He has made farming the principal business of his life, and has been remarkably successful. Mr. Armatage was married, in 1830, to Mary Parlett, of English and Welsh descent, and this union was blessed with five children: Mary E., married to H. Royce and had three children (the family are all deceased); Rebecca, wife of Elisha Roberts, a farmer of Venice Township, this county; John W., now a prominent farmer, born in Venice Township, this county, in 1834, married in 1858 to Elizabeth McClelan (had nine children: Wesley, George, Etta J. (wife of John B. McCibben), Thomas (deceased), Charles, Alvin, Louis, Erwin and Bertie); Margaret, wife of John A. Whitmire; George W. (deceased) was a farmer in early life, but later a merchant (he was twice married and by first wife had two children: Robert, now a hardware merchant in Attica, and Bell, and by his second wife, two children: William and Jay). Our subject is a Republican in politics. He and his family are members of the Protestant. Methodist Church.

ROBERT ARMATAGE, of the firm of Armatage & Wurts, dealers in hardware, stoves, tinware, farming implements, spouting, paints, oils, etc., Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, April 8, 1864, son of George W. and Mary J. (Walker) Armatago, natives of this county, and of German descent. His grandfather, John Armatage, now a prominent farmer of Venice Township, this county, settled here in 1827. George W. Armatage (subject's father) born in 1829, was reared on the farm, received a common school education and made farming the business of his life. He died in 1884. Robert, the eldest in a family of four children, grew up on the farm, attending the Attica school. When eighteen years of age he embarked in business on his own account, dealing in agricultural implements. His father bought a hardware store in 1883, and after his death the stock was purchased by the firm of Armatage & Wurts, who are now carrying on the business.

E. D. BEMENDERFER, senior member of the firm of Bemenderfer & Co., manufacturers of sash, doors and blinds, manufactory located on High and West Main Streets, Attica, was born in Stark County, Ohio, May 18, 1842, son of Samuel and Christine (Funk) Bemenderfer, natives of Virginia and

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1017

Ohio, respectively, and of German descent. The father of our subject, who settled in Venice Township, this county, in 1842, and who was a successful farmer, died in 1884; of his eight children, seven are now living, all residents of Seneca County except Jacob, who is now in New Mexico. The fancily are members of the Lutheran Church. Our subject was reared on the farm, and. after receiving a common school education attended the academy at Republic, and in early life taught school. In 1866 he embarked in the manufacture of handles and rakes, which in 1874 was merged into his present business. The building is two stories high, nearly seventy feet square, and the firm employ fifteen men, and manufacture about 1,000,000 feet of lumber annually. Mr. Bemenderfer was married, in 1867, to Mary Jane, daughter of John Koller and. ,of German descent, by whom he has two children: Esther and Harry. Mrs. Bemenderfer is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Bemenderfer is a Prohibitionist in politics, and a. member of the I. O. O. F. He is now in the town council.

W. K. BEMENDERFER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born on the farm where he now resides, in Venice Township, this county, April 2, 1851; son of Samuel Bemenderfer, who served in most of the township offices, moved to Attica in 1872, and for ten years previous to his death led a retired life; his widow now resides in Attica, Ohio. Our subject, the seventh in a family of eight children, was educated in the district schools of his native county and has followed farming all his life. He is now owner of eighty acres of wellimproved land. He was united in marriage, in 1873, with Susan, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Murray) Hoke, former of whom, of German descent, was a miller, farmer, and an early settler of Venice Township, this county. To our subject and wile has been born one child, Effie May. Mr. Bemenderfer has acted as school director of Venice Township.

HARRY G. BLAINE, physician, Attica, was born in Wheeling, W. Va.., November 25, 1858; son of William I. and Nancy (Voshall) Blaine, the former a native of Pennsylvania, of English descent, the latter of Ohio, of Welsh lineage. William I. Blaine, who has been a printer and editor nearly all his life, is now editing the Attica Journal. Our subject, the third in a family of six children, received his education in the schools of Fostoria. Republic and Attica, this county. and at the age of sixteen commenced to teach school. When nineteen years old he entered the office of Dr. J. M. Parker, of Attica; in 1880 he attended the Medical College at Columbus, Ohio, and afterward the Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis, from which he graduated in 1882. He is now a member of the board of regents of that institution. The Doctor commenced the publication at Attica, in 1884, of the Medical Compend, a monthly journal of practical medicine, having a large circulation. He also owns the office of the Attica Journal, of which his father is editor. The Doctor commenced the practice of medicine at Reedtown, this county, in 1882, and in 1883 came to Attica. He is an honorary member of the Toledo Medical College Association, of the Northwestern Ohio Association arid the Ohio State Association. In May, 1885, he was elected demonstrator of practical anatomy in the Toledo Medical College, and later he was chosen as professor of diseases of women and children in the same institution, which position ho now holds. He is a F. & A. M. The Doctor was married, in 1877, to Lucy E., daughter of James Shanks, a farmer of Huron County, Ohio, and of Get-man descent. The children born to this union are Ernest G. and Earl H (twins), Harry S. and William G. G.

JOHN B. BLUM, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in France, July 1, 1828: son of Joseph and Magdalena Blum, also French peo-

1018 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

ple, former of whom was a farmer all through life. They reared a family of four children, John B. being the third born. Our subject was educated in France and Germany, and came to America April 4,1850, first settling in Stark County, Ohio, but a year later came to this county where he has since followed agricultural pursuits. He now owns two well-improved farms in Venice Township. Mr. Blum was married, in 1857, to Mary M., daughter of John and Catherine (Seen) Steigmeyer. Her father, a farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Switzerland in 1811, there received his education, and in 1835 came to America, settling two miles west of Attica, this county, on the farm where he still resides. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Blum are Susan, wife of William Hahl (have four children: Mary M.; Rosa D., John S. and Edward), and Frank J., who is still at home. Mr. and Mrs. Blum are members of the Catholic Church. In politics he is a Democrat.

LEWIS BOLLINGER (deceased) a pioneer farmer of Seneca County, Ohio, was born in Germany, September 14, 1825. He was reared and educated in his native land and came thence to Stark County, Ohio, in 1842, settling on a farm where he remained two years. He then came to this county and bought thirty acres of land in Venice Township. He was a prudent, industrious man, and at the time of his death,which occurred June 28, 1880, owned 250 acres of well-improved land. He was married in this county, in 1850, to Margaret, daughter of Conrad Plouch, a farmer. Her parents were of German origin. To Mr. anal Mrs. Bollinger were born the following children: Margaret, wife of George Duerr, a resident of Michigan; Philip; Catherine, wife of Samuel Kemrick; Lewis W., married and farming; Louisa, wife of David Zellars; Mary E.,wife of Charles Deisler; and Henry, Daniel, Alexander F. and John F. at home. They are members of the German Reformed Church. Philip, who is a farmer and stock-raiser, was born February 20, 1853, on a farm in Venice Township, where he was reared and received a common school education, and here he still resides. He was married, in 1878, to Anna Mary Fink, born in Pennsylvania, of Dutch origin, and by her he has three children: Ida, George F. and John F. Lewis Bollinger, the subject of this sketch, was a prominent Democrat, and during his life held most of the public offices of Venice Township; he was frequently chosen by his party as a delegate to political conventions, and was often a member of the grand jury at Tiffin.

A. B. BRANT, dealer in grain, seed, salt and baled hay, came to Attica at the time of the building of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and began dealing in lumber and grain, abandoning the former in 1882. He is a native of Cumberland County, Penn., born July 11, 1843; son of Michael and Elizabeth (Bower-master) Brant. He received his education in the country schools, and began business for himself at seventeen years of age, following farming and stockdealing until embarking in his present business. He came to Ohio in 1846, mid to this county in 1860. He was married, in May, 1866, to Mary J. Myers, who died in 1871, and by her he had one child---Millie. His second marriage, in March, 1875, was with Loa M. Couch. Mr. Brant is an energetic business man, and has held important positions in Reed and Venice Townships. He is a member of Attica Lodge No. 367, F. & A. M., also of the chapter at Republic, Ohio.

P. A. BUCHMAN, retired merchant and farmer, Carrothers, was born in Bloom Township, this county, June 18, 1843; son of Adam and Catherine (Fike) Buchman, natives of Bavaria, Germany, who immigrated to America, and located in Pennsylvania, where they resided three years; came then, in 1833, to this county, and settled on a farm in Bloom Township, where Adam Buch-

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1019

man died in 1881. Their family consisted of eight children, three sons and three daughters attaining maturity, five of whom are now living. Our subject, the second born, was reared on the farm, and followed agricultural pursuits until 1874, when he came to Carrothers and opened a general store, subsequently admitting his brother, Jacob, as partner, to whom he sold his interest in 1875, and who is now conducting the business. Our subject built the first dwel.. ling house in Carrothers. He has been financially successful, and now owns a farm of 100 acres in Bloom Township, and property in Carrothers, where he resides. He was married, in 1866, to Rosa, daughter of Jacob and Annie (Neice) Brillhart, of German descent, and to this union were born the following children: William, Ada, Robert, Dellie, Jacob and Early. Mr. and Mrs. Buchman are members of the Reformed Church, of which he is deacon, and of which he served as a member of the building committee. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN H. CARPENTER, deputy United States marshal, Attica, was born in Richland Township, Huron Co., Ohio, October 27, 1843; son of Amasa A. and Catherine (Huffman) Carpenter, the former a farmer, born in Steuben County, N. Y., of Scotch descent, the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of German lineage. Amasa A. Carpenter came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1845, and lived on a farm until his death in 1855. Our subject, the eldest in a family of four children, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the Attica schools and academy at Republic. He enlisted during the late Rebellion. in 1862, in Company I, One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served till the close of the war. He was twice taken prisoner, on first occasion managing to effect his escape; the second time was just before the close of the war, and he received his discharge in prison. He participated in several battles, and was at Winchester when Gen. Sheridan arrived and turned defeat into victory. After his return Mr. Carpenter farmed for a time. He was married, in 1867, to Susan, daughter of John Sutton, and a sister of Lester Sutton, of Attica, by whom he has one son-Harry E. Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mr. Carpenter came to Attica in 1870, and worked at the carpenter's trade here. He served for a time as constable, and for fourteen years as marshal of Attica, and in 1880 was appointed deputy United States marshal. In connection with his official duties he also deals in real estate.

J. W. CARSON, farmer and buyer and shipper of live-stock, P. O. Attica, was born in Harrison County, Ohio, December 3, 1818; son of Samuel void Elizabeth (Wiloughby) Carson, natives of Pennsylvania, members of the Methodist Church; the former, who was a farmer, was born in 1788, of Irish descent, served in the war of 1812, came to Venice Township, this count'-. April 11, 1835, and died here in his seventy-ninth year; the latter, of German and English lineage, lived to be seventy-one years old. They were parents of eleven children, eight of whom are now living. Our subject's grandfather, Robert Carson, served as a soldier all through the Revolutionary war and early came to this county, where he died in 1836; his wife died in May, 1836, and was the first one buried in the graveyard, near what is known as the Swamp Church. Our subject received a common school education, and for nearly a quarter of a century has dealt extensively in stock. He is owner of a fine farm of eighty acres on which he resides, and some land in Dakota. He was married. February 4, 1841, to Mary Ann, daughter of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore, the former born in 1797, the latter June 27, 1800, and who had a family of thirteen children, twelve attaining maturity and nine still living. Mr. Moore, a farmer by occupation, was one of the pioneers of Seneca County. com-

1020 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

ing here in 1834. He died October 7, 1883, his wife having preceded him February 10, same year. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Carson was blessed with twelve children, nine growing to manhood and womanhood, of whom eight are now living: Margaret Jane, wife of John H. Gaddis, a farmer of Venice Township; Hannah Ann, wife of John L. Retting, a farmer in Huron County, Ohio: Sarah M., wife of John Harter, a farmer in Crawford County, Ohio; S. B., an extensive land agent in Dakota, and also the owner of over 1,000 acres of land on which the town of Carson is located; Eliza A., wife of Henry Werder, a farmer of Van Wort County, Ohio; Mary F., wife of A. M. Friedley, a merchant in Attica; Ida May, wife of Frank C. Myers, a merchant in Attica, and Louetta, wife of Henry S. Hayes. Mrs. Carson is a member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. Carson is a great reader and usually takes from eight to ten newspapers. He has served as assessor and township trustee. Politically he is a Republican.

JAMES L. COUCH, justice of the peace, Attica, was born in Niles Township, Cayuga Co., N. Y., May 5, 1810; son of Joel B. and Phoebe (Ladow) Couch, the former a native of Connecticut, of English descent, the latter of Saratoga County, N. Y., of French lineage. They were the parents of twelve children, eight of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. James L., the fourth born, was reared on the farm, receiving a common school education, and at the age of eighteen learned the wagon-maker's trade, at which he worked for many years. He was married, in 1834, to Celestia, daughter of Asahel Wood, and the children now living that were born to this union are Frances, wife of Isaac Raymond; Joel B., married, living in Napoleon, Henry County, Ohio; Mary E., wife of Williard Green, and Celestia A., wife of David A. Boyle. Mrs. Couch died in 1850, and our subject subsequently married Mary H. Wheeler, a cousin to his first wife, by whom he had three children: Addie E., wife of A. B. Low; Loa M., wife of A. B. Brant; and Nettie W., wife of Rev. J. F. Rice, a minister in charge of the Universalist Church, at Attica. Mr. and Mrs. Couch are members of the Universalist Church here. Mr. Couch moved to Huron County, Ohio, in 1837, settling in. Bronson Township; in 1848 he located in Norwich Township, Huron County, where he farmed and built, a saw-mill, which he ran successfully several years; then came to Attica, in 1872. He is a Democrat in politics and has filled several of the township offices of Bronson and Norwich Townships in Huron County, and Venice Township in this county. He has served as mayor of Attica; three terms as justice of the peace, and also as township and village clerk of Venice and Attica, respectively. He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the I. O. O. F.

CYRUS N. CRABBS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Seneca County, Ohio. October 10, 1857, and is the youngest of the five sons of James Madison and Mary N. (Houston) Crabbs, the former a native of Pennsylvania, of English descent, the latter born in Ohio, of Revolutionary parentage. James M. Crabbs was a carpenter by trade, also had possession of a large farm situated in Seneca County. By hard work and exposure to bad weather, he contracted a cold which terminated in death; he left five young boys. Our subject was reared on the farm, attended the common schools in Venice Township and obtained a collegiate education at Valparaiso, Ind. He chose teaching as his profession, went to Mansfield, Ohio, took a regular teacher's course and graduated in 1879. He has taught in this county every winter, except one, since he was nineteen years of age. Mr. Crabbs is a good scholar, an able debater and a fine political speaker. He is a Republican in politics and took an active part in the campaign of 1884, making several speeches. Our subject has been twice married; on first occasion in 1881, to Ellen, daughter of John Crothers;

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1021

she dying in 1882, Mr, Crabbs was again married, this time in 1884, to Miss Jennie, daughter of Peter Keesy, a prominent farmer of Huron County, Ohio. and of English descent. Mrs. Crabbs is a member of the United Brethren Church.

D. J. DECK, physician, Carrothers,was born in Lebanon County, Penn., August 22, 1855, and is the only son of Jacob and Maria (Wise) Deck, also natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Jacob Deck, who was twice married, has been a farmer all his life. Our subject, who is the youngest of six children, obtained his literary education at Palatinate College, Pennsylvania, whence he graduated in 1873. After traveling in the Western State one year he returned to Harrisburg, Penn., studied medicine and was admitted to practice in 1877, having graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. He then came to McCutchenville, Ohio, and the same year to Carrothers, where he has since remained in active practice. He was married, in 1877, to Almira, daughter of Benjamin and Eliza (Miller) Reeme, who were of German origin, and to this union have been born three children: Reeme, Dessie and Elabel. Mrs. Deck is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Dr. Deck is a Republican. He is a member of the Patriotic Sons of America and of the Masonic fraternity, and is a member of the German Lutheran Church.

PROF: RUSSELL B. DRAKE, superintendent of public schools, Attica, was born in Wood County, Ohio, January 15, 1850, son of Joseph and Rosanna (Bowers) Drake, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively, and of English descent. His father, a farmer by occupation, was a pioneer of Wood County, Ohio, and obtained land from the Government, President Jackson (whom he had previously voted for) signing the deed. Our subject, the youngest in a family of seven children, lived on the farm until seventeen years of age, when he graduated at Fostoria High School and commenced teaching school for the purpose of obtaining funds to prosecute a thorough classical education. He then attended Oberlin College, and while at that institution, in 1875, received a favorable offer and accepted the superintendency of the public school at Allouez, Mich., where he remained for two years. He then went to Central Mine, Mich., where he was superintendent of a school for four years. In 1883 the Professor accepted his present position. He was married, March 28, 1873, in Hancock County, Ohio, to Miss Ruth, daughter of J. Redfern, whose parents were natives of England. Her father, a farmer, was one of the early pioneers of Hancock County, Ohio. Mrs. Drake has also taught school and was one of Mr. Drake's assistants while in Michigan. Their children are as follows: Alba A., Lillie A. and William A. Our subject and wife are members of the Methodist Church, in which he is class leader, and while in Michigan was licensed to preach. Mr. Drake is also teacher in and assistant superintendent of the Sabbath-school. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and A. O. U. W. societies.

JACOB EBERSOLE, retired farmer, Attica, was born in Cumberland County, Penn., September 12, 1807, son of John (a farmer) and Elizabeth (Eberly) Ebersole, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Of their nine children, Jacob, the second born, was reared on a farm, receiving a common school education. He has made farming the business of his life, and has resided in Venice Township, this county, since 1834. He settled in the woods when he came here, and thinks he has cleared 200 acres of heavily timbered land with his own hands, the first being 160 acres, which he obtained from the State, and seventy acres which he purchased and lately sold to Isaac, the second son that is living. Since 1866 Mr. Ebersole has resided in Attica. He

1022 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

bought eleven acres of land near the village, when he came here, the most of which he has laid out in town lots. He was married, in 1832, to Mary, daughter of John Rarisk, and of Pennsylvania-Dutch descent. Their children are as follows: Henry, Mary, Elizabeth, Isaac, Amanda, Emma and Andrew. Mrs. Ebersole dying in 1853, our subject was married, on second occasion, to Sophia E. Burns, a native of Kentucky, daughter of Michael and Sarah (Barlow) Burns, of English descent, the latter born in New York, both of whom lived and died in Kentucky. This union has been blessed with one child-Eva. Mrs. Ebersole is a member of the United Brethren Church. Politically Mr. Ebersole is a Republican.

J. B. FALTER, farmer and breeder of fine stock, P. O. Attica, was born in Germany December 20, 1826, son of Philip and Christina (Kerner) Falter, also natives of Germany, who came thence to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1833. Philip Falter, who was a shoe-maker in the old country and a farmer here, was twice married, and reared eight children, J. B. being the youngest; the father died in 1842. Our subject was reared on the farm, obtaining his education in the log schoolhouse. He is a good English scholar, and can read, though he cannot write, the German language. Mr. Falter has been very successful. When he started for himself his father gave him $160, and today he owns 142 acres of land, well stocked, etc. He was married, in 1853, to Margaret Steinmetz, born in Alsace. France, in 1832, daughter of Martin and Elizabeth (Lang) Steinmetz, also natives of Alsace, and who came to America in 1833, and settled on a farm in Seneca County, Ohio. To our subject and wife were born the following children: Philmenia (wife of John C. Worm), Martha (wife of Nathan Worm), John Joseph, Mary Magdalena, Ida, Annie E., William E. and Cornelius, all members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Falter has been school director for eleven years. In politics he is a Democrat.

A. H. FINK, junior member of the firm of Bemenderfer & Co., manufacturers of sash, doors and blinds, Attica, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, December 6, 1850; son of John R. and Matilda (Miller) Fink, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. His father was n carpenter and a farmer. Our subject, the eldest in a family of eight children, was reared on the farm and attended district school in Huron County, Ohio. In early life he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked until he entered his present business. He came to Attica in 1879. Mr. Fink was married, in 1874, to Martha L., daughter of Andrew Sbeely, of German descent, by whom he has one child-Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Fink are members of the Methodist Protestant Church at Attica. Although Mr. .Fink was reared a Democrat, he is a radical Republican. He has made what he now possesses by his own exertions. He is a man of temperate habits.

ALFRED FORCE, physician, Attica, was born in the State of New York, June 8, 1822, son of Benjamin (a farmer) and Sophia (Caswell) Force, natives of New York and Massachusetts, respectively, and of English descent. Their family consisted of six children, of whom Alfred is the fourth. Our subject was reared on the farm, receiving his early education in his native State. He was united in marriage. in 1844, with Lucinda, daughter of Lewis Davison, and of English descent, and their children are Alice, wife of S. Tackbury; Clarence C., a physician, and Winfield S., a medical student in Attica. In 1852 our subject came to this county and commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Franklin, at Tiffin, subsequently attending the Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio. He was in active practice till 1864, when he enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was appointed assistant surgeon of the regiment: most of the time, however, he

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1023

filled the position of surgeon-major. At the close of the war he was as mustered out of service. The Doctor then practiced in the State of New York until 1881, when he came to Attica, where he has since followed his profession. Dr. Force is a member of the Universalist Church.

A. M. FRIEDLEY, a member of the firm of Friedley Bros., dealers in dry goods, groceries and queensware, Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, January 1, 1853, son of J. J. and Barbara (Link) Friedley, latter of whom was born in Germany; her parents came to America when she was only two year old, and were, among the first settlers of this county; her father, Jacob Link, entered 240 acres of land, part of which is now owned by H. F. Myers, of Attica, and part by John Link. Our subject's grandfather, Ludwick Friedley. was boric in Pennsylvania, of German descent and was a farmer by occupation, settling in Venice Township, this county, in 1838, dying in 1871. J. J. Friedley (subject's father) resided here from 1838. He was a farmer, and at his death owned 230 acres of well-improved land. He died in 1881. aged fifty-three years. A. M. Friedley, the subject of this sketch, was the eldest in a family of nine children--seven boys and two girls. He received his education in this county, and followed agricultural pursuits until 1880, when he embarked in his present business. He was married, in 1875, to Mary F. Carson, of English descent, daughter of J. W. Carson, and to this union have been born Alva J., Ida May, Myrtie Belle and Dessie Edith. Mr. and Mrs. Friedley are members of the United Brethren Church. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN L. FRIEDLEY, of the firm of Friedley Bros., dealers in dry goods. groceries and queensware, Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, January 19, 1855, son of J. J. and Barbara (Link) Friedley. He was educated at the normal school, Valparaiso, Ind., and resided on the farm with his parents until twenty-three years of age. He then came to Attica, this county, and clerked in the store of S. A. Ringle for two years. He and his brother, A. M. Friedley, then bought the stock and continued doing business in the same building. John L. Friedley was married, in 1882, to Jennie, daughter of Rev. Peter Tendrick, a minister of the Reformed Church, and of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Friedley have but one child, Grace B. They are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Our subject has served three years its a member of the town council. In politics he is a Democrat.

S. C. GATES, a member of the firm of Bemenderfer & Co., manufacturers of sash, doors and blinds, Attica, was born July 21, 1840, in New London, Ohio, son of John and Rachel (Earl) Gates, natives of New York, and of English descent. Our subject, the second of three children, received his education in the common schools of his native State, and followed droving from 1855 (cattle in summer and horses in winter, selling in portions of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland), until 1861, when he enlisted in Company C, Sixty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served three years and was mustered out as orderly-sergeant of his company. He participated in the battles fought at Pittsburgh Landing and Chattanooga, Tenn., and in several other engagements. At the close of the war he came to Ohio and settled in Huron County, where he remained until 1868, when he removed to Seneca County, and in 1869 to Attica, where he manufactured carriages and wagons. and worked at the carpenter's trade until 1874, since when he has successfully engaged in his present business. Mr. Gates was married, in 1867, to Sarah Carpenter, of English descent, and by her he has one child, Edith. Mr. and Mrs. Gates are members of the Baptist Church at Attica, of which he is trustee and treasurer. In politics he is a Republican; has served as trustee of the township, and as a member of the school board.

1024 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

SYLVANUS GRIFFITH, retired, Attica, was born in Madison County, N. Y., March 19, 1806, son of Doan and Lucinda (Eaton) Griffith, natives of Now York and of Welsh descent, and whose family consisted of eleven children, nine of whom attained maturity, Sylvamis being the next eldest. Doan Griffith was a weaver by trade, and also engaged in farming. Our subject was reared on a farm, receiving at common school education in his native State, and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life. In 1835 he settled in the woods of Huron County, Ohio, and improved a farm where he lived until he retired froth active pursuits in 1872, and bought and moved on his property in Attica, this county. He has been twice married, first in 1833, to Elizabeth Abell, born in Vermont, of English descent, and who died in 1880. She was a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Griffith was married, on second occasion, to u Mrs. Electa (Beard) Richard, who had three children; Wilson, a farmer of Wood County, Ohio; George, a farmer, and Emma. Mr. Griffith was formerly Methodist, but since 1877 has been a member of the United Brethren Church at Attica, and was a member of the building committee when the new church was erected. His wife has been an active member of this church for several years.

J. W. HALL, member of the firm of Hall & Myers, proprietors of foundry ;:rid machine shops, Attica, was born in Niles Township, Tompkins Co., N. H., July 11, 1828, and is next youngest of the seven children born to William and Mary (Goodwin) Hall, natives of New Jersey and of English descent. His father came from New York and settled .in Scipio Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, among the early pioneers. Our subject acquired a common school education and attended the academy at Republic. He remained on the farm until seventeen years of age; then learned blacksmithing, and after serving an apprenticeship as machinist also learned the molder's trade, serving in all fourteen years, and is master of his vocation. He came to Attica in 1866, and embarked in his present business. He manufactured for a time the iron beam !glow which had tin extensive sale, but he is now making a speciality of the land roller, an invention of his own. Mr. Hall was united in marriage, in 1851, with Hannah Ryno, a native of Steuben County, N. Y., and of English descent. and their children are William H., a lumber dealer; Warren R., a molder by trade: Alcamena, wife of William Smeltz; George, living at Tiffin, Ohio, and Elera. Mrs. Hall is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Hall. has served as trustee of Recd Township, this county.

GEORGE H. HAMILTON, dealer in groceries, and insurance agent, Attica. was born in Venice Township, this county, January 11, 1852, son of D. F. and Margaret (Carson) Hamilton, natives of Ohio and of English descent. Our subject, the fourth in a family of ten children, received his education in the academy at Republic and Heidelberg College, at Tiffin, Ohio. At the age of seventeen years he commenced teaching school, a vocation he followed until he was twenty-two years old, and in 1873 embarked in his present business in Attica. He was united in marriage, in 1872, with Clara, daughter of David S. Jackson, and to this union were born the following children: Ora M.. Stewart F. and Clara Belva. Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which he has served as superintendent of the Sabbath-school for the past seven years. Mr. Hamilton is representing the Ohio Mutual Life Insurance Company, and the Washington Fire and Marine Insurance Company. In connection with his grocery business he deals extensively in poultry.

JAMES HANNA, retired farmer, P. O. St. Stephen, prominent among t the early pioneers of Seneca County, Ohio, was born in Cumberland County,

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1025

Penn., January 28, 1804, son of Hugh and Elizabeth (Orr) Hanna, natives of Ireland. His father, a weaver by trade, immigrated to America in 1799 and settled in Cumberland County, Penn. Our subject is the third born and the only survivor in a family of four children. His early means for obtaining a ii education were limited by his location in a newly settled country. In 1834 he came to this county, entered land, and although the country then abounded with wild game, never turned his attention to hunting, but devoted his time exclusively to farming. He has been very successful and owns 219 acres of land on which he resides. He was married, in 1829, to Sarah, daughter of Samuel and Ellen (Crooks) McClelland, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch descent, and to this union were born Hugh R., residing at Fostoria; Samuel McClelland (deceased); William, married and engaged in farming and teaching school; James, married and farming in Illinois; Sylvanus, married and farming in Paulding County, Ohio; Thomas S., previously in business at Bloomville, this county, is now taking charge of the home farm; John, farming in Wood County, Ohio; Martha E., wife of George Hull, of Fostoria: Sarah, wife of Frank Free, a farmer, and Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Webster. Mr. and Mrs. Hanna have together borne the hardships and privation of pioneer life, and by industry and prudent management of their resources have accumulated a handsome competency which will enable them to pass the residue of their lives in ease and comfort. They are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. Hanna has been deacon for many years. He hits served his township as school director and assessor. Politically he is a Democrat.

WILLIAM HARMAN, dentist, and mayor of Attica, was born in Reading. Penn., November 15, 1846; son of Charles and Barbara Harman, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent, former of whom, a machinist by trade, died in 1856 when William, who was the third in a family of five children, all now living, was not quite ten years old. Our subject then clerked in a store until 1863, when he enlisted in Company I, Forty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. He was shot by a sharpshooter at Cold Harbor, the musket ball passing through his right shoulder and lodging in the right lung, where it still remains He received an honorable discharge by order of the war department. July 25, 1865. Returning home he studied dentistry at Selin's Grove, Penn., and in 1866 commenced to practice his profession in Indiana, where he resided for two years; thence moved to Michigan, and hero he remained until 1871, when he came to Attica, where he still continues to practice. Mr. Harman was married, in 1868, to Lucy Graves; a native of Ohio, and of English descent. She is a member of the Universalist Church at Attica. The Doctor has supported himself since ten years of age. He obtained his education 1»studying at nights and reading the newspapers, having attended school but six weeks in his life. He was elected mayor of Attica in 1880, which position he still fills. He has taken seven degrees in the order of F. & A. M., and has been through all the chairs, and is Noble Grand of the I. O. O. F. He has been a member of these societies for fourteen years. Our subject was also first commander of the G. A. R. He is a member of the State Dental Association. In politics he is a Republican.

LEVI HILLIS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, October 6, 1848, son of John and Sarah (Cummins) Hillis, natives of Maryland, and of Irish descent. His father, born in Ireland in 1806, came to America and direct to Seneca County, Ohio, settling on a farm in Venice Township in 1846, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1875. He was a successful farmer, and at the time of his death owned 120 acres of

1026 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

land. Our subject, the ninth in a family of eleven children, was reared on the farm, and he now owns a farm in Venice Township, whereon he resides. He was united in marriage, in 1878, with Sophia, daughter of Martin Smeltz, of German descent, who has always been a farmer. Politically Mr. Hillis is a Democrat.

ANDREW HOERN, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Baden, Germany, February 29, 1828, son of Jacob and Susan (Fry) Hoern. His father, a blacksmith, and who came from Germany in 1849, settling in Venice Township, this county, had two sons: Andrew, and Jacob, now a farmer in Michigan. Our subject was educated in Germany, and at the age of fourteen learned blacksmithing. He worked at his trade for several years after coming to Venice Township, but has made farming the principal business of his life, having met with marked success, and is now the owner of 360 acres of fine land in this county, 160 being in Reed Township, and the remainder, on which he resides, in Venice Township. He was married, in 1855, to Maria Zutavern, born in Bloom Township, this county, in 1837, daughter of Henry and Maria (Geiger) Zutavern, also natives of Germany. Their children are Jacob and Henry (married and residing on a farm in Reed Township), and Margaret, Susan, Amelia, George, Lucinda, Caroline and Laura (at home). The family are members of the Reformed Church. Politically Mr. Hoern is a Democrat.

DAVID HOLMES farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, in 1843, and is the youngest of eight children. He received his education in his native county, and was reared on the farm. He learned the blacksmith's trade, but has made agriculture the principal occupation of his life. He owns 250 acres of land in Huron County, Ohio, and has the controlling interest in the home farm of 226 acres, which he manages and on which he resides. Mr. Holmes is a Democrat. He has served as school director and trustee of Venice Township. He took an active interest in the Grange movement, and was Master of a lodge in that order. His father, John Holmes, who resides with him, was born October 30, 1807, in Jefferson County, Ohio, son of John and Sarah (Norris) Holmes, natives of Pennsylvania, the former of whom served all through the Revolutionary war. John Holmes, Jr., who has been a farmer all his life, was married, in 1829, in Carroll County Ohio, to Sabina, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Bunion) Hillis, and of Irish descent, and by her he had the following children: Elizabeth, wife of George D. Moore; Sarah, wife of B. F. Slough; Rebecca W., wife of L. Palmerter; Amos, a resident of Michigan; John Q., a resident of Putnam County, Ohio; Almeda; Emaline (deceased); and David the subject of this sketch.

J. W. HUFFMAN, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, August 29, 1837, and when two years of age was brought to Venice Township, this county, by his parents, Jacob and Catherine (Weaver) Huffman, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. They bad a family of ten children, all of whom attained maturity, J. W. being the ninth born. Jacob Huffman, the father of our subject, who was a farmer, first settled in Ohio in 1825, and died in Venice Township in 1855. Our subject's brother Adam lost his life in the late war of the Rebellion. J. W., the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm and during the winter attended the log schoolhouse, receiving at the ago of twenty-one years a teacher's certificate. During the late civil war he enlisted, in 1861, in the Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged in 1862 on account of disability. In July, 1863, he re enlisted in the Eighty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He now owns a farm of 180 acres, and has made agriculture the business of his

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1027

life. He was married, in 1867, to Sarah L. Moore, of English and German descent. Her father, Maurice Moore, obtained land from the Government, the deed being signed by Gen. Jackson. Mr. and Mrs. Huffman have five children: Blanche, a teacher; Icedore; Ernest A. W., born August 27, 1871, died April 28, 1872; Ashley J. and Ross. Mr. and Mrs. Huffman and two eldest children are members of the Baptist Church, in which ho is deacon. Mr. Huffman takes a deep,interest in educational matters.

MICHAEL HULL, retired farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Bedford County, Penn., September 7, 1807, tenth in the family of fourteen children, of Jacob and Elizabeth (Souder) Hull; the former, a farmer, a native of Germany, the latter a native of England. Michael Hull was reared on a farm, receiving a common school education in Pennsylvania and has made agriculture the business of his life. He was married, in 1836, to Barbara, daughter of George and Betsey (Forney) Free, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. This marriage has been blessed with ten children-seven boys and three girls: Elizabeth (deceased wife of Christian Lebold); Joanna, wife of Jacob Rosh, brother of 8. B. Resh, of Venice Township; Otha If., married and farming in Henry County, Ohio; George F., a farmer near Fostoria, Ohio; Jacob B., living on a farm in Fulton County, Ohio; John W.; Silas R.; William H.; Amanda, wife of Milo D. Benton; and A. W. Three of the sons served in the late war of the Rebellion: Otha H. enlisted at the commencement of the struggle and served till the close of the war; George h. and Jacob B. were in the 100 days' service. Mr. Hall came to this county in 1834 and bought 560 acres of land on Section 7, in Venice Township, where he still resides. He has been remarkably successful as a farmer and has been able to give each of his daughters $2, 000 when they were married, and to each of his sons eighty acres of land. No stranger has ever been turned from their door empty. Mr. and Mrs. Hull were members of the Dunkard Society. The four sons who own farms in Venice Township are as follows:

JOHN W. HULL, who was born June 19, 1846, acquired his education in this county and has made farming the business of his life. His residence is one of the best in the neighborhood. He was married in Hancock County, Ohio, in 1867, to Elizabeth, daughter of Andrew Zimmerman, of German descent, and had six children: Celestia Ann, Joseph A., Ada L. (deceased), Altie I., Alfred H. and Flora Amanda. The family are members of the English Reformed Church.

SILAS R. HULL, who resides on his farm, adjoining his father's on the west, was born May 25, 1847, and reared on the farm in Venice Township, and received his education in the common schools of Seneca County. He was married, in 1872, to Anne, daughter of John and Almira (Snyder) Rogers, former of whom, of English descent, was one of the early pioneers of this county; latter was of German descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Silas R. Hull were born five children: Perry G., Edward E., Jennie Belle (deceased), David C. and Eva Almira. In politics Mr. Hull is a Republican.

WILLIAM H. HULL, whose farm is located north of his father's, was born December 15, 1848, in Venice Township, this county, and was reared on the farm, acquiring his education in his native county and in the academy at Republic, and has followed agriculture all his life. He was married, in 1872, to Lorenia, daughter of Samuel and Lorenia (Green) Finch, of English descent. William H. Hull is the only Democrat in his family.

A. W. HULL, the youngest of Michael Hull's children, owns the home farm, where his parents still reside. He was born October 3, 1853, and was educated in Seneca County, Ohio. He was married, in 1879, to Miss M. Lepard,

1028 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

daughter of Isaac and Sarah (Woollen) Lepard, of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Hull are parents of Aza B., Ids May and Mina Belle. Mrs. Hull is a member of the Baptist Church in Attica. Air. Hull is a staunch Republican in politics.

DAVID S. JACKSON, proprietor of saw-mill, P. O. Attica, was born in Brooke County, Va., April 7, 1819, son of William and Sarah (Steward) Jackson, parents of nine children, David S. being the fourth born. His mother as a native of Virginia, of English descent; his father, born in Pennsylvania, of Irish descent, was a farmer and came to Crawford County, Ohio, in 1825. Our subject received a common school education and wisely chose to follow the honest occupation of his father. At present he is owner of ninety-two acres of well-improved land. In 1884 Mr. Jackson moved to Attica and embarked in the saw-mill business in company with his son-in-law E. D. Work, his present partner. Mr. Jackson was married, in 1840, to Louise M., daughter of Joseph Kennedy, of English descent, and to this union were born the following. children: Ozro, Sarah E., Margaret J., Mary Ann, Ezra and Charles. Mrs. Jackson dying in 1853, our subject was again married, this time, in 1853, to Mrs. Margaret Ann (Fansler) Hill, a widow, by whom he has bad five children: Clara, Julia (deceased), Laura, David and Melvin. Of these Julia was married, October 16, 1.878, to E. D. Work, who was born in Pennsylvania, September 13, 1854, and is the son of John and Mary (Doty) Work (the issue of this union was one child, Leona). Mrs. Work died January 23, 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson are members of the Reformed Church. In politics he is a Democrat; he served as township trustee when he resided on the farm in Huron County, Ohio.

REV. W. ALLEN KEESY, minister of the United Brethren Church, Attica, was born in Huron County, Ohio, July 25, 1843; son of John and Elizabeth (Douse) Keesy. (The name Keesy was originally spelled Geesy. His parents, of German origin, reared a family of ten children in Huron County, Ohio, where the father, John Keesy, a farmer, resided for many years and died in 1859. Our subject enlisted, in 1861, in Company I, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until 1862, and participated in the following battles and skirmishes: Moorfield, Franklin, Culpeper, Cross Keys, Strasburg and Bull Run, in Virginia, and was discharged on account of disability; but, in 1864, he again enlisted in his country's defense, serving as a non-commissioned officer in the Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which regiment he was present at the battles of Spring Hill, Franklin, and two days at Nashville. He was reared on the farm, attending the common schools, and, on his return from the army, the Normal School at Milan, Erie Co., Ohio; commenced to teach school on his return from Milan, and taught for five terms. He was admitted as a member of the United Brethren Church in 1864, licensed to exhort in 1867, was admitted to the annual conference in 1872. and regularly ordained in 1875. He first took charge of the Huron Mission, next the Honey Creek Circuit, then the Shelby Station, Richland Circuit, Chicago Junction (where he remained three years), thence going to Fostoria and Clyde. He has served the conference three years as presiding elder, two years of that time being spent in Sandusky District. He was stationed at Attica in 1883. Rev. W. A. Keesy is an able speaker, convincing orator, a diligent worker and faithful student. He has been twice married, first, in 1868, to Maggie ; J., daughter of Rev. S. T. Lane, a minister of the United Brethren Church. Of the three children born to this union two are now living: Minerva and Mary. Mr. Keesy lost this wife by death in 1873, and in 1875 he was married to Augusta Charles, by whom he has five children, Flora, Oceola, Leona Silvesta, and Edith and Ethel (twins).

VENICE TOWNSHIP - 1029

THOMAS KEMP, farmer, P. O. New Washington, Crawford County, was born in Washington County, Penn., October 2, 1813; son of David and Sarah (Ward) Kemp, former a native of Virginia, of German descent, latter born in Pennsylvania, and of English lineage. His father, David Kemp, who, in an early day was a cabinet-maker,, came to this county in 1830, settling in the woods of Venice Township. Our subject, the sixth in a family of twelve children, all of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, was reared on the farm and has always followed agricultural pursuits; at present he is owner of eighty acres of land on which he resides. He was married, in 1841, to Elizabeth, daughter of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore, and of nine children born to this union seven have been school teachers: William, an attorney in Indiana; Maurice, a carpenter and teacher, residing in Berea, Ohio; George, a farmer and school teacher, residing in Wisconsin; David J., a merchant of Young America, Ind.; Hannah S., a school teacher; John L., a farmer and teacher, residing in this county; Finley L.; Emily J. and Frank Theodore, a farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Kemp are members of the United Brethren Church. Politically he is a Republican.

EDWARD KINNEY, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Scipio Township, this county, April 3, 1833; son of Patrick and Jane (Sweney) Kinney, natives of Ireland, who had a family of six children, five attaining maturity. His father came from Ireland to America when a young man, and was married in the city of Philadelphia, Penn.; came to this county in 1829 and owned a farm in Scipio Township where his son, Edward, who was next to the eldest child, lived until seventeen years of age. In 1852 the subject of this sketch started across the plains for California, remaining in the mining regions of the Pacific coast for seven years. During this time his father lost his eyesight, and, on receiving the sad news, Edward, who was a dutiful son, immediately returned and lived with his father until the latter's death in 1873. In the fall of the same year Edward Kinney was united in marriage with Mary A., daughter of Matthew Delaney, of Irish origin, and to this union were born two children: Anna Bertha and John F. They are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Kinney is owner of 100 acres of well-improved land whereon he resides. In politics he is a Democrat.

A. W. KNIGHT, physician and surgeon, Attica, was born near Tiffin, this county, May 31, 1856; son of Thomas and Mary (Powell) Knight, also native Ohioans, of English descent, who were the parents of seven children, of whom A. W. is third. His father, a farmer, and still a resident of this county, tool; great interest in educating his children, giving them the advantages of the best schools. Our subject graduated from Wooster University in 1879, receiving the degree of B. S., and has since had the degree of M. S. conferred upon him by that institution. He commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. J. F. E. Fanning, but after remaining there only five months entered Miami College, Cincinnati, where he graduated in 1884. He then commenced and has since continued practice in Attica, this county. Politically the Doctor is a Republican.

NOAH LAPHAM, retired farmer, P.O. Attics, was among the early pioneers of this county, where he has resided since 1826. He is a native of the State of New York, born August 4, 1813; third in the family of ten children of Joseph and Levina (Holland) Lapham, natives of Massachusetts, and of English descent. Joseph Lapham came to Scipio Township, this county, in 1826, obtained land from the Government, the deed being signed by Gen. Jackson, and here resided on the farm. He and his family traveled via the Erie Canal to Buffalo, N. Y., thence to Sandusky, Ohio, on lake, and from there to Venice

1030 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

Township by team, and here lived for a time in a tent. Joseph Lapham was eighty-five and Levina Lapham eighty-eight years old when they died. Our subject acquired-his education in his native State. When twenty-three years old he was married to Sarah Chase, a native of Massachusetts, and of English descent. Seven children were born to this union, three now living: John M., who served as a soldier in the army during the late war of the Rebellion; Adalaide and Henry T. This wife died in 1875, and in 1876 Mr. Lapham married Miss Artie Brown, who lived but. three years after. His present wife, Celia, daughter of Russell True, was a native of New York, of English descent, and the widow of Philo Bugbee. Ono of Mr. Lapham's sons, Joseph C., was a member of Company H, One Hundred and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Resaca, Ga., May 15, 1864. Mr. Lapham is a member of the Universalist Church. In politics he is a Republican. He has filled the offices of assessor, trustee, school director, etc., of this township. He is the owner at present of 110 acres of farm land and some town property.

JACOB FREDERICK LEBOLD, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Germany, April 10, 1820, oldest child of John C. and Christianna (Eichenhofer) Lebold, natives of Germany, who settled on a farm in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1830, and there resided until 1842, thence moving to Section 16, Venice Township, this county, where John C. Lebold (the father) bought 340 acres of land, on a portion of which he still resides; of their family of ton children six attained maturity. Our subject has made farming the business of his life, and at present owns a well-improved farm. He was married, in 1855, to Rachel McKibben, daughter of James, Sr., and Rachel (McCord) McKibben, former of whom, a farmer, died in 1861 in this county, where he had resided since 1834 (they were natives of Pennsylvania, of Irish and Scotch descent). To our subject and wife was born one child-Christianna Maria, now the wife of Frederick L. Smeltz, who is engaged in farming in Venice Township, this county. Mrs. Lebold taught school eleven terms before her marriage. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr Lebold was formerly a Whig in politics, and is now a Republican.

CONRAD LEBOLD, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Lawrence Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, April 2, 1839; son of John C. and Christiana (Auchenhofer) Lebold, natives of Wurtemberg, Germany, and a brother of Jacob F. Lebold. His father, one of the early settlers of this county, still resides in Venice Township. Our subject was reared on the farm, educated in the common schools and has followed agricultural pursuits to the present time. He is the owner of 100 acres of land near Attica, on which he resides. He was married, in 1855, to Lucinda, daughter of Jaoob Henry and Margaret (Geiger) Zutavern, natives of Germany, and among the early settlers of this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Lebold were born the following children: Sherman F., Henry C., Alvin B. and Clara Bertha. The family are members of the Lutheran Church. In politics Mr. Lebold is a Republican.

JOHN LEBOLD, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, January 30, 1842; son of J. C. Lebold, a pioneer farmer, who still resides in Venice Township. Our subject's parents, natives of Germany, moved to Seneca County when ho was a child. He was reared on the farm acquired a common school education, and chose agriculture as his occupation, at which he has been very successful, being at present the owner of 120 acres of well-improved land. At the commencement of the war, in 1861, Mr. Lebold promptly enlisted in Company A, Twenty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, taken prisoner, but released on account of his wound. He participated in several engage-

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1031

ments, and after serving for three years was honorably discharged, returned home and again took up farming. Mr. Lebold was united in marriage, in 1869, with Annie, daughter of Jacob Free, by whom he has two children: Earl and Iden. Mr. Lebold is a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican.

AVERY LEONARD, farmer, Attica, one of the early settlers of Venice Township who still survive, was born in Washington County, Penn., July 30, 1798. His parents were natives of Connecticut. The father, Caleb Leonard, was a descendant from the Puritans that landed on Plymouth Rock, and the mother, Sarah (Hale) Leonard, was of English descent, being a daughter of Gideon Hale, who served under Gen. Wolfe, when he fell at the taking of Quebec from the French. His father died at the ripe age of eighty-seven, in Washington County, Penn., and the mother in her eighty-second year, in Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject received his education in the common schools, and early learned the blacksmith trade. He was married, in 1820, to Nancy, daughter of Samuel Smith, also a native of Washington County, Penn., being of German and Spanish descent, and who died in 1872, in Seneca County, Ohio. To this union were born nine children-seven sons and two daughters: Samuel H., Sarahann, William F., Verden W., Hiram S., Levi, Avery H.. Jonathan and Sarah Angeline. Verden W. was killed by a falling tree in his eleventh year; Sarahann, died in her seventeenth year, and Sarah Angeline, at the age of three months. The other six are still living-two in this county and four in Huron County-all having been engaged in farming a part of their lives. Three are still active farmers, and three are ministers of the Gospel. Avery Leonard came to -Venice Township, this county, with his family, in the year 1834, and settled in the woods, where his children were educated in the log-schoolhouse. In politics the father and sons are all Republicans. The subject of this memoir in religion was raised a Presbyterian, and on Christmas day, 1823, under a deep conviction of sin, he gave his hand to the Methodist Episcopal Church as a seeker of the pearl of great price, and in the month of June, 1824, being in his twenty-sixth year, after seven months of terrible struggle, he realized that he was made a new creature in Christ Jesus. He remained a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church until the Methodist Protestant broke off from the mother church, when he became a member of the Methodist Protestant Church. About a year after locating in this township, he and his companion, with five others, united in forming a Methodist Protestant class in the community where they lived, since which time he has changed his church relation to that .of the United Brethren, where he now holds his membership. Mr. Leonard is now in his eighty-eighth year, enjoying a good old age with his son, W. F., with whom he makes his home.

SAMUEL H. LEONARD, farmer, near Attica, was born in Deersville, Harrison Co., Ohio. He is a son of Avery and Nancy (Smith) Leonard. In 1834 he immigrated to this county with his father. Mr. Leonard owns the farm settled by his father, and upon it he now resides. Being the eldest of nine children his education was somewhat neglected, his services being required in the duties of the farm-his instruction in the schoolroom being given principally before the age of nine. Farming has been the calling of his life, and he is the owner of 536 acres of land, 160 acres being in Dakota.. October 26, 1854, records the event of his marriage with Mary M. Baily, who was born in London, England, and was the daughter of Benjamin and Ann (Powel) Baily. Mr. Baily was a member of the "Great East India Tea Company." After the dissolution of the company he came to this country and settled in this township in 1836, where he spent the greater part of the remainder of his

1032 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

life. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard are in the order of their respective ages: Avery F., who is married and resides near Pierre, Dak. ; Benjamin L., married and farming in Crawford County, Ohio; Nancy J., wife of Victor Neikirk, farmer of this township; Walter Lincoln, killed by the falling of a hayfork July 22, 1882, and Samuel E.; also Mary Ida, Minnie E. and Della M., who are with their parents. In politics Mr. Leonard is a Republican. In ecclesiastical connection Mrs. Leonard is a member of the United Brethren.

V. F. LEONARD, farmer, Attica, was born in Harrison County, Ohio, November 16, 1825. His parents, Avery and Nancy (Smith) Leonard, were natives of Washington County, Penn. Our subject came to Venice Township, this county, with his parents, when a small boy of nine years, when this country was a dense wilderness, where was heard the howl of the wolf, growl of the bear, and the "yowling" of the wild cat, while before them stood the sturdy forest tree that-would yield only to persistent toil. His educational facilities were very limited, and being reared on the farm, he has steadily followed agricultural pursuits, being at present owner of 101 acres of well-improved land. He has also devoted much attention to the handling of imported horses, and has paid as much as $2,000 for one horse. W. F. Leonard was married, in 1849, to Margaret Jane Moors, daughter of Maurice Moore, a native of Hunterdon, N. J., and Hannah (Davis) Moore, of Wales, the former of whom died in 1883, in his eighty-sixth year, and the latter in 1882, in her eighty-third year. Mrs. Leonard's parents came to this county and settled on a farm in this township in 1834; she is a member of the United Brethren Church, and has been for more than forty years. AN'. F. Leonard, during the late war of the Rebellion, enlisted, in 1863, in Company C, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served for 100 days. In politics he is a Republican.

JOHN LEPARD, P. O. Attica, prominent among the representative farmors and pioneers of Venice Township, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, February 23, 1828, son of Isaac and Nancy (Huffman) Lepard, natives of Virginia, of German descent. His father, a farmer, came to this county in 1830, and settled in the woods of Reed Township, traveling hither by means of a four-horse team and an old-fashioned Pennsylvania wagon, in which the family lived until a rough log-cabin was erected; there they cleared a farm and lived for many years. Isaac and Nancy Lepard reared a family of eight children, of whom seven are still living. Our subject received his education in Reed Township and grew up on the farm. His father dying when he was quite young, the support of the family largely devolved on him, and being wonderfully attached to his widowed mother and his sister and brother, he devoted himself to their support until he was twenty-seven years of age. He then commenced life on his own account, without a dollar, working first on a farm by the day, and as a result of industry, he is now the owner of 160 acres of well-improved land which is well-stocked. He was married, in 1865, to Harriet H., daughter of Samuel Hoil, and a native of New York, of English descent. To this union were born Mary (deceased), Eunice, Ira, Emma, Hattie and Flora. Mrs. Lepard is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Lepard has served as school director of Venice Township for several years, and has been a resident here for fifty-five years.

J. W. LINK, farmer and stock-raiser and proprietor of the Link Saw-mill, Attica, a son of Jacob and Mary Ann (Gering) Link, natives of Germany, was born on the American side of the ocean as his parents were coming across from Germany. They first settled in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1833, and in 1838 came to this county and entered 240 acres of land, on which they spent the

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1033

remaining portion of their lives, the father dying in 1841. Our subject, the youngest of six children born to this couple, was reared on the farm and for the past thirty-three years has operated the saw-mill in connection with his farming interests. He is owner of 300 acres of land, 200 being in Indiana. Mr. Link was married, in 1860, to Mary Ann, daughter of Ludwick and Rebecca (Middleworth) Friedley,the former a native of Pennsylvania,of Dutch origin. the latter a native of New Jersey, of English descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Link have been born seven children, six of whom are now living: Benjamin F., a carpenter; Joseph Jackson, a school teacher; C. M., who also holds a teacher's certificate; Sarah Emily, Barbara Ellen and Amanda Rebecca, are attending district school from home. Julia is deceased. Mrs. Link is a member of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Link has been trustee of Venice Township for four years. Politically he is a Democrat.

REV. W. E. LYON, A. M., Attica, was born in Napoli, Cattaraugus County, N. Y., April 2, 1827, and, being the son of a Baptist minister, his early days were spent on a farm, attending the common schools and Teaching in the same. In 1855 he graduated from the collegiate department of Madison University at Hamilton, N. Y. In June, 1856, he married Miss Sabrina A. Chamberlain, of Grafton, Ohio, and in the following December he was ordained pastor of the Baptist Church in Seville, Medina Co., Ohio. Since his ordination he has been constantly employed in the work of the ministry with exception of three short intervals between pastorates, having to this date lost only two Sabbaths on account of his own health. His pastorates have been in Northern Ohio with the exception of one at Gallipolis, Ohio, and one at Saginaw, Mich. He has baptized, into the fellowship of the several churches he has served, 231 persons, of whom four are now actively employed as Baptist ministers, one is studying with a view to the ministry, and one is president of a college. Mr. and Mrs. Lyon are the parents of four daughter,: Mary E., Amie L., E. Jennie and Grace G. Two of the number are married; one is teaching; the youngest is a student in Granville College. Rep. W. E. Lyon's present pastorate commenced November 1, 1881.

GEORGE S. McKEE, merchant and postmaster at Carrothers, was born in Crawford County, Ohio, July 2, 1841; son of James and Eliza (Moore) McKee, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch-Irish descent. James McKee. was a tanner in early life, but later has been a farmer, and has resided for over half a century on a farm in Crawford County, Ohio. Our subject, the eldest of five children, was educated in his native county. During the late war of the Rebellion he enlisted in 1862, at the age of twenty-one, in Company E, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving as a non-commissioned officer, and was honorably discharged in June, 1865. He participated in several severely fought battles, and to use his own words "was a very lucky boy," being slightly wounded three times, but never disabled. His regiment missed but one battle (Mission Ridge) in which the Army of the Cumberland took part, and by referring to the history of this regiment it will be seen that our subject was in many of the most sanguinary struggles of the war. The regiment never retreated but once-at Chickamauga. On returning home Mr. McKee engaged in farming, and teaching school in the winter;, until 1881, when he sold his farm, purchased property at Carrothers and embarked in his present business. He was married, in 1872, to Levina, daughter of Michael (a farmer) and Sarah (Helm) Nigh, of German descent. To this union six children were born: Luella, Bertha (deceased), Eva (deceased), Richard (deceased), Sadie and an infant. Mrs. McKee is a member of the Methodist Church. In politics Mr. McKee is a Republican. He took an

1034 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

active interest in the Grange movement, and served two years as Worthy Master in that organization.

WILLIAM McPHERSON, retired merchant and farmer, Attica, was born in Scotland, February 6, 1793. His father, Donald McPherson, was a merchant in Scotland, and there spent his life. William, however, was ambitious to see the world, and when eighteen years old left his native land and settled near Halifax, N. S., where he followed the occupation of a peddler, but, being twice robbed of his money and goods, concluded to leave that place, which ho did in 1815, coming to Baltimore, Md., where he settled. There he lived with a merchant, and by industry and economy managed to get a start in the world. He was united in marriage with Ann Scarf, of English descent, and they reared a family of four sons and two daughters. This, wife dying in 1844, our subject married, in 1845, Almeda Thatcher, who is still living. Mr. McPherson came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1828, bought 800 acres of land, conducted a store at Caroline several years, and was very successful in business. Though he retired from mercantile life in 1852, he has since been loaning money and attending to his own affairs.

O. J. McPHERSON, justice of the peace, P. 0. Attica, was born in Crawford County, Ohio, in 1840, and is a son of William and Ann (Scarf) McPherson. He was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the common schools and at Republic Academy. He learned the trade of tanner and currier, which he followed for a time, but has been principally engaged in farming. Ho was married, in 1862, to Margaret J., daughter of Peter Swartz, born in Ohio, and of English descent. To this union were born the following children: Anna, Allie, Eva, William, Ida, Cora, Nina and Adda. Mr. and Mrs. McPherson are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Our subject's father was one of the first movers in organizing a church of this denomination in Attica, and has always taken a deep interest in all that pertains to the same. He (the father) has been a Whig and Republican all his life, but O. J. only voted with his father when he felt the right man was on the ticket. He has served as justice of the peace of Venice Township for seven years.

A. J. MEYERS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this County, July 8, 1845, son of Henry and Rebecca (Free) Meyers, who were parents of seven children, A. J. being the third born. His father, a pioneer of this county; was a successful farmer, and wits owner of over 2,000 acres of land at his death, which occurred in 1884. Our subject was reared on the farm, educated in his native county, and wisely chose the occupation of his father as his own. He now possesses the farm on which he resides, comprising 280 acres, and 250 acres in Nebraska. He was married, November 2, 1880, to Mary R., daughter of Henry H. and Parthena (Cole) Bathrick, the former of Scotch and English descent, 'the latter of English lineage. Our subject's father, Henry Meyers, "tailor," as he was familiarly known to all, was born in the village of Oberendengen, Switzerland, April 26, 1808. He was reared in the faith of the German Reformed Church, and took his first communion when he was seventeen years old. At the age of twenty-one he left his native land and came to America, in company with his elder brother, Jacob, who bore the expense of his passage to Philadelphia, where he resided six years. His brother, soon after arriving in Philadelphia, became sick and was advised . by his physicians to return to his former home, as the only means of recovery. Henry, poor and penniless, begged in the streets, with uncovered head, of the people of that city, the required amount to pay his brother's passage back to Switzerland, promising to each one who contributed that he would return the sum again as soon as he could earn the money, which he did to each one with

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1035

the exception of one person, who refused to accept of it. While living in Philadelphia he worked at tailoring for a livelihood, receiving as remuneration for his services the sum of $1.50 per week and his board. After working six years for one man at the trade in Philadelphia, he left there on the 10th of July, 1835, and came by canal to Sandusky, Ohio, arriving on the 29th of the same month, walked to Attica, on the old turnpike, where he had previously purchased wild land. Six years after his arrival in Seneca County he worked at his trade in Tiffin, after which. he worked five years in the village of Attica, using the money thus earned for improvements on his land. He came to this country a poor Dutch lad, without a cent in his pocket, a stranger in a strange land, without .a single friend to greet his coming. He set to work with perseverence and a true pioneer spirit to amass a competency. Out of his small earnings in Philadelphia he saved a sufficient sum to purchase 160 acres of land, lying near Attica, where he ever after resided until the time of his death in 1884. His acres numbered 2,160, of which 1,280 acres were in Nebraska, the rest in Ohio, all but 160 acres in this township. In 1835 he brought the first $5 in gold seen in Tiffin, Five years after he came to Seneca County, July 11, 1840, he was married to Miss Rebecca Free, sister of the late John Free. By patient, honest industry and frugality he breasted the, waves of life and succeeded in accumulating a fortune. Providence seemed to smile on his every effort, and by honest toil his acres broadened until they became a noble heritage, and he took rank among the solid men of Seneca County. He was a strong-minded man, of correct habits and an inveterate reader. A man of retentive memory, his mind was a store-house of useful knowledge; a lover of history he made himself familiar with the events not only of his own, but those of other nations. In politics he was proud to bear the title of a Democrat, with the significance of its earlier and original simplicity, and was a believer in the great universal faith of the positive laws that govern the universe. To Mr. and Mrs. Henry Meyers were born seven children: Mary J., deceased wife of A. B. Brant, a grain merchant; George W., a farmer, who died April 17, 1860; A. J., our subject; Sarah E., wife of James E. Carpenter; T. J., a farmer in this township; W. T., a farmer of Hancock County, Ohio; M. Ellen, wife of A. J. Coofman, a physician of Tiffin, Ohio.

M. H. MILLS, physician, Attica, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in February, 1846, the eldest of the four children born to Simeon H. (a miller by trade) and Amanda (Muzzy) Mills, natives of New York and of English descent. Our subject acquired his literary education in the schools of Cleveland, Ohio, then attended the Homceopathic College of Cleveland, graduating in 1872. He was married, in 1873, to Sylva Bradford, a descendant of William Bradford, the first governor of Plymouth Colony and governor of Massachusetts, and to this union were born two children: Clara and Ethel. The Doctor commenced to practice his chosen profession at Salem, Ohio, and in 1877 he came to Attica, this county, where he has been in active practice since, having won for himself many warm friends. He is a member of the State Medical Society . In politics he is a Republican.

MAURICE MOORE (deceased), one of the early settlers of Venice. Tom reship, and a farmer by occupation, was born in Hunterdon County, N. J.. Julv 15, 1797. His parents were natives of Switzerland, and lived and died in Hunterdon County, N. J. The subject of this memoir was educated in the common schools, and was brought up a farmer. He was married, in 1819, in Hunterdon County, N. J., to Hannah Davis, a native of Wales, and to them were born thirteen children-six girls and seven boys-one of whom died in childhood; four enlisted and served in the late war for the Union; two of them served 100

1036 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

days each, one three years, and one gave his life for his country. Maurice Moore settled in Venice Township, this county, with his family, in 1834, when the country was a wild forest, with only the advantages of a new country to educate their children in. At the organization of the Methodist Protestant Church in 1835), Mrs. Moore became one of the original seven members, joined by her husband in a few years. They remained members of the same class and society until death took them from labor to reward.

DAVID B. MOORE, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, December 4, 1838, son of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore, the former a native of New Jersey, of German descent, the latter a native of Wales. His father, Maurice Moore, a farmer by occupation, came to Seneca County, Ohio, and settled in Venice Township in 1834. Our subject's parents died in 1883. They were members of the Methodist Church, of which the father had been class leader; they reared a family of thirteen children, twelve attaining maturity, of whom our subject is the tenth. Maurice Moore owned a farm of 160 acres of valuable land. which he sold in 1868. He purchased, in 1866, twenty acres of land adjoining the town of Attica (two acres and house being inside the corporation), moving there that same year, and this property he owned till his death. Our subject was reared on the farm, attending the district school, and engaged in farming until he was twenty-three years old, when he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which company he was a non-commissioned officer. He participated in most of the battles in which his regiment engaged and with it was captured in 1863. He was a prisoner at Belle Isle one month, then was exchanged and served until the close of the war in 1865. Since his return home he has followed agricultural pursuits and now owns 114 acres of wellimproved land. Mr. Moore was married, in 1866, to Eliza Ann, daughter of Philip and Hannah (Croninger) Upp, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively, and of German descent. To this union were born the following children: Florence, Willard U., Bertha lone, Frank B., Hannah M., Mabel B., Bernice Belle and Edna Grace. Mr. Moore is much interested in educational matters, and has served his township as school director for several terms. He was a member of the township board for several years. He is a member of the G. A. R. In politics is a Republican.

HENRY F. MYERS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Switzerland, April 10,1822, son of Jacob and Fanny (Werder) Myers, also natives of Switzerland, who immigrated to Ohio in 1820, and came to this county in 1831; they were parents of eight children, of whom Henry F. is second. Our subject's father, a wealthy, influential farmer, helped build the first log schoolhouse in Venice Township, and there Henry F. received his education. The subject of this sketch was married, in 1848, to Mary Meyers (no relative however); her father's name was Jacob Meyers; he was a native of Switzerland. Our subject and wife have two children now living: Frank C. and Alice, wife of Hiram Barnes. Mr. and Mrs. Myers are members of the Universalist Church. In politics he is a Republican; has been school director and trustee of the township.

FRANK C. MYERS, a member of the firm of Myers & Keller, dry goods, notions and clothing, Attica, was born in Seneca County, Ohio, January 28, 1860, son of Henry F. Myers, an early settler of Venice Township, this county, and prominent farmer and successful business man. Our subject, the third in a family of five children, three of whom are deceased, received his education in this county, and lived on the farm with his parents until eighteen years of age, when he engaged as clerk in a dry goods store for four years at Attica. He then embarked in his present business. He and his partner speak the German

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1037

and English languages. Mr. Myers was married, in 1881, to Ida M. Carson, a native of this county, and daughter of J. W. Carson, of English descent. Mr. and Mrs. Myers are members of the Universalist Church at Attica. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN PHILLIPS, farmer and stock-raiser, P. 0. St. Stephen, was born in Germany, March 14, 1826; son of Michael and Eaf R. (Shebide) Phillips, who came from Germany to America, and settled on a farm in Huron Countv, Ohio, in 1837, and reared a family of eight children, of whom John is the second. Our subject's education was mostly obtained in Germany, though he attended school for a few months after coming here to learn the English language. He remained with his parents on the farm until he attained his majority, when his father bought him fifty acres of wild land in Huron County. Mr. Phillips, having made farming the vocation of his life, has met with marked success, and is now owner of 400 acres of well-improved land. He was united in marriage, in 1850, with Catherine Gross, whose parents were also natives of Germany, and they have five sons and five daughters: John, Lewis, Joseph, Martin, Mary, Jacob, Fanny, Anna, Ella and Matilda. They are all members of the church. In politics Mr. Phillips is a Democrat.

MARTIN PHILLIPS, merchant, Carrothers, was born in Huron County, Ohio, November 6, 1857; son of John and Catherine (Gross) Phillips, natives of Germany. His father, a farmer, came to America when a young man, and was married in Huron County, Ohio; his family consisted of five sons and five daughters. Our subject, the eighth born, received his education in the common schools of this county, and followed his father's occupation (farming) until 1879, when he came to Carrothers and embarked in the agricultural implement business, in which he has since continued. He bought a general store in 1884, and since then has conducted both businesses. Mr. Phillips married, in 1883, Bertha, daughter of Joseph Meier, and of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips are members of the Roman Catholic Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

S. B. RESH, farmer and stock-raiser, P. 0. Attica, was born in Franklin County, Penn., July 29, 1846; son of Abraham and Julia Ann (Brumbaugh) Rosh, of English descent, natives of Franklin County, Penn., and Washington County, Md. , respectively. His father, a farmer by occupation, and for many years a local minister of the "Church of God," came to this county in 1847, and settled on the farm where S. B. now resides; his family consisted of three children: John, who died in Pennsylvania in his fourteenth year; J. H., whop is married and farming in Henry County, Ohio (by profession he is a teacher, and he taught school twenty-two terms, five terms in the schools of this county) and S. B. Our subject acquired his education in the schools of Venice Township. He was married in this county, May 24, 1870, to Catherine A., daughter of Jacob (a farmer) and Mary (Sell) Lebold, natives of German-. This union has been blessed with one child -Minnie Myrtle. Mrs. Rosh is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Rosh has devoted his entire time to farming and stock-raising, now owning a fine farm of 154 acres, and he is a model farmer. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN ROGERS, P. O. Attica, a pioneer farmer of Seneca County, was born in England in March, 1819, son of Stephen and Jane (Rogers) Rogers, also natives of England. His father, a blacksmith by trade, came to America in 1818, and settled eighteen miles south of Baltimore, Md., but in 1837 came to Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest of a family of nine children, was reared on the farm. There were but few schools in those days in this county, and his educational privileges were limited to one month's attend-

1038 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

ance at the night school. He early became attached to hunting pursuits, and frequently staid out all day and night rather than give up the chase. For many years he killed from twenty to thirty deer each winter, and other game in proportion. He was married, in 1845, in Venice Township, to Almira Snyder, a native Ohioan and daughter of Jacob and Mary (Prouse) Snyder, who were of Dutch descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Rogers were born following children: William; Mary M., wife of Edward R. Hillis, Anne, wife of Silas R. Hull; Levina, wife of Hiram McGloffin; Mary J., wife of Lafayette Hastler; Daniel, married and residing at home; Amos C., at home, and Isabella; Mrs. Rogers is a member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. Rogers has been a very successful farmer, owning at one time 220 acres, and he still owns, 140 acres, on which he now resides. He has been a great wood-chopper in his time, and thinks he has cleared, with his own hands, 100 acres of heavily timbered land in Venice Township. He has served as school director. Politically he is a Republican.

LEONARD SACHS, merchant, P. O. Attica, was born in Germany, December 25, 1838, son of John and Margaret (Smith) Sachs, also Germans. His father, a tailor and a farmer by occupation, spent his life in his native land. Our subject, the eldest in a family of five children, received his education in Germany. After the death of John Sachs (our subject's father) his widow came to America, bringing her family with her, and located in Newark, N. J., where our subject went to school for a few months and studied the English language. He then commenced to work on the Lehigh & Morrow Canal. In 1852 the family moved to Crawford County, Ohio, and from 1852 to 1859 our subject helped to make brick, and made potash, and also worked on the farm. In 1859 he came to Caroline, this county, with A. Whitaker, a drover and merchant, and here was employed by him. In 1862 he embarked in his present business, keeping a general stock of dry goods, groceries, etc., etc., and has met with success. Mr. Sachs was married, in 1863, to Caroline, daughter of J. C. Lebold, by whom he has three children: Franklin Otto, Menzo Emerson and Emma Lusseta. Mr, and Mrs. Sachs are members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has been trustee and treasurer. Politically he is a Democrat.

SEBASTIAN SENN, Attica, a prominent pioneer of this county and a representative farmer and stock-raiser, is a native of Switzerland, born January 20, 1828. His father emigrated from Switzerland to America in 1838, and settled on a farm in Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest of seven children, resided with his parents on the farm until fifteen years of age. He then learned the miller's trade, an occupation he followed in connection with farming in Pulaski and Carroll Counties, Ind., from 1849 to 1863, since which time he has devoted himself to his present business, meeting with marked success. His farm, on which he resides, consists of 165 acres of land, well improved and stocked. Mr. Senn was married, in Ohio, in 1852, to Miss Louise, daughter of Jacob and Maria (Sickle) Meyers, the former a native of Switzerland, the latter of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Senn were born, in Indiana, four children, all living at home: Frank, Lizzie, John and Maria. Mr. Senn is a prominent member of the Catholic Church in Attica,. and was a member ,of the building committee when it was erected, and has always given liberally to its support. Politically he is a Democrat.

JACOB SHERMAN, a native of Germany, was born January 26, 1819, and is the youngest of the nine children born to William and Elizabeth (Shaffer) Sherman. He received his education in the common schools, and

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1039

learned the trade of weaver in his native land. He came to America in 1847, and same year settled in Attica, this county. He was married in America to Catherine Hachtle, also a native of Germany, and by this union were born four children. Mr. and Mrs. Sherman are members of the Lutheran Church. of which he has been trustee and Sabbath-school superintendent.

GEORGE SHERMAN, harness-maker, Attica, was born in Attica, this county, May 4, 1862; son of Jacob and Catherine (Hachtle) Sherman, of Attica. Our subject is the third born in a family of four children. He was educated in the schools of his native town, and learned harness-making. In 1882 he embarked in business on his own account, and is meeting with success. He is a Republican in politics.

J. M. SILCOX, merchant, Attica, was born in Reed Township, this county, January 5, 1834; son of Alonzo and Mary (King) Silcox, natives of New York State and of English descent; former of whom, who was a farmer, only lived to be thirty-five years old. Our subject, the second in a family of three children, attended common school six years, and this constituted all his schooling. He worked on the farm till twelve years old and then was a clerk for William Rininger ten years. He afterward moved to Huron County, and had a half interest in a store with his employer with whom he continued two and one half years, then sold out and embarked in the dry goods business at West Lodi, Ohio, where he continued for four years. In 1864 he sold this business and came to Venice Township and bought a farm which he worked nearly two years; then sold it and purchased the store of William Rininger, which he carried on alone for one year, when his former partner and old employer bought a half interest. Mr. Silcox is running the store and has full charge of the business. He is a first-class business man, enjoying the fullest confidence of his partner, and having many warm friends and very few, if any, enemies. Mr. Silcox was married, in 1859, to Zilla, daughter of Seth Read, a farmer, and of English descent, and to this union have been born the following children: Belle, wife of O. A. Smith; Ella, now attending college, and Frank B., at school. Mr. and Mrs. Silcox are members of the Universalist Church, of which he is treasurer. In politics he is a Republican. He served as a member of the town council several times, has been a member of the school board for fourteen years and president of that board for six years.

MARTIN SMELTZ is a son of Peter Smeltz who came from Germany and settled in Pennsylvania when our subject was only seven years old. Peter Smeltz afterward moved to Carroll County, Ohio, and settled on a farm where Martin grew to manhood. He, Martin Smeltz, was among the early settlers of this county where he followed the occupation of farming. He was married to Christiana Lebold and reared a family of eight children.

MARTIN SMITH, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. New Washington, Crawford County, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, July 22, 1834; son of John and Mary (Weaver) Smith, natives of Washington County, Penn., and of Dutch descent. His father, who was a farmer by occupation, came to Seneca sea County, Ohio, in 1838, and settled in Venice Township, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1882. Our subject, the fifth in a family of seven children, acquired his education in the log schoolhouse. He remained with his parents on the farm until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, when he enlisted in Company C, Sixty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was in the forty-two battles in which his regiment participated, and at one time was under fire for ninety days. He was wounded at the battle of Stone River, and after a service of three years, one month and thirteen days was honorably discharged. The first year after returning home he

1040 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

worked at the carpenter's trade, since when he has been farming. He now owns a fine farm, comprising ninety-three acres of land. Mr. Smith was married, in 1868, to Fannie, daughter of James and Rebecca (Overholser) Robinson, the former born in Washington County, Penn., July 8, 1808, the latter in Westmoreland County, Penn., January 7, 1815. They came to Huron County, Ohio, in 1838, and reared a family of five children. Mrs. Smith is a member of the United Brethren Church. Politically our subject is a Republican

SAMUEL SPEAKER, farmer and carpenter, P. O. Attica, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, July 20, 1830; son of Samuel and Hannah (Harper) Speaker, the former born in Pennsylvania of German parents, the latter a native of Virginia of Welsh descent. They reared a family of twelve children. Our subject's father, who was a miller, came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1840, and for a time worked at his trade, but eventually pursued farming; he was among the first settlers in Venice Township, and died in 1868; he was a Democrat in politics, and served as justice of the peace of Venice Township. Our subject, the fifth born in the family, was reared on the farm and learned the carpenter's trade, which he has followed, together with farming, all through life. He was married, in 1851_, to Caroline, daughter of John Bait, and of German descent, and to this union were born the following children: Martha Ellen, wife of Alvin Cheny; Harriet F., wife of Simeon Stout, and Jefferson, a resident of Caroline, Ohio. Mr. Speaker is a Democrat in politics, and has served as trustee of Venice Township.

I. A. SPENCER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Washington Township, Richland Co., Ohio, November 21, 1828, son of Huckkins and Nancy (Bingham) Spencer, latter a native of Ireland. Huckkins Spencer, a farmer, of English descent, born in Maine, settled on a farm in this county in 1834. Our subject, the eldest of a family of ten children, was reared on the farm, receiving a limited education in the common schools of Venice Township, and has followed agricultural pursuits through life. At the death of his father, who was accidentally shot, in 1851, he was appointed administrator of the estate, and has since taken care of the family. Mr. Spencer has been very successful and now owns a farm comprising 111 acres of land. He was married first, in 1852, to Catherine Mechener, by whom he had the following children: Mary J., widow of Dr. J. C. Myers; Emma E., wife of Scott N. Bruner, of Chicago, Ill.; Anna and Sherman. Mrs. Spencer died in 1864. She was a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church. The year of his wife's demise Mr. Spencer enlisted in the United States Regulars and served 100 days as Fourth Duty Sergeant, Company C. November 25, 1865, he was married to his present wife, Emeline, daughter of Daniel Dunahay, and to this union were born Ella and Jennie. Mrs. Spencer is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church. Mr. Spencer is a Republican in politics. He has passed all the chairs of the I. O. O. F.

JOHN W. STEIGMEYER, farmer, P. O. Attica, is a son of Frederick Steigmeyer, who was born in Switzerland, and there received his schooling. Frederick Steigmeyer's parents were Dominions and Barbara (Meyer) Steigmeyer, also natives of Switzerland. Fred. Steigmeyer came to America in 1831 and settled in Pennsylvania, where his father worked at the carpenter's trade for sip; years. He came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1836, and in 1837 returned to Switzerland and there married Elizabeth Senn, returning to Seneca County the same year. To this union were born the following children: John W., Fred H. (a resident of Attica) and Elizabeth (wife of John Buchman, a prominent farmer living near Tiffin, Ohio). John W. Steigmeyer, the subject

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1041

of this sketch, was born in Venice Township, this county, January 4, 1838 and was reared on the farm, acquiring his education in the schools of his na tive county. He has proved himself to be a successful farmer, and now owns a fine place consisting of 160 acres of land. He was married, in 1863, to Mary E., daughter of Henry Seiger, a farmer, and of German descent. The have three children: Flora A., Henry F. and Cecilia. Mr. Steigmeyer has served his township as trustee. In politics he is a Democrat.

M. C. STEINMETZ, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. St. Stephen, was born in France September 29, 1829, son of Martin and Elizabeth (Baltz) Steinmetz, also French people, who immigrated to America in 1831 (being six months making the journey), and settled on a farm in Stark County, Ohio, but, moving in 1837 on a farm in Venice Township, this county; the former, who was a shingle-maker in France, after coming to America followed farming. Our subject's parents raised a family of nine children. of whom M. C. is the sixth born. Our subject was reared and acquired his education in this county, and worked on the farm until nineteen years old. He then learned the car penter and millwright trades, which he followed (most of the time in this coun ty), and with more than average success, for eighteen years. Since then he has devoted his entire attention to farming. He has met with marked success, and is the owner of two well-improved farms, one comprising seventy-eight and three-quarters acres, and the other (where he resides) 136 acres. When he started out for himself Mr. Steinmetz worked for $8 a month, and what he has accumulated has been obtained mostly by his own exertions. Our subject has been twice married; first, in 1852, to Mary E., daughter of Philip Falter, a native of Germany, and who died in 1881. The children born to this union. are John C., Philip, Mary, Christena, Celia, Clement, Louise, Anthony, Lawrence and Maria. The first five mentioned are married, and are useful citizens. Mr. Steinmetz was married, on second occasion, January 1, 1885, to Magdalena, daughter of Henry and Freniga (Wagner) Wattz, natives of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Steinmetz and family are members of the Catholic Church, of which he has been a trustee for thirty-four years, and he has also been a member of the church council. In politics he is a Democrat. He bas served as trustee of Venice Township for six years, and as assessor for two o years.

CAPT. WILLIAM STEPHENSON, grandfather of Prof. William H. Stephenson, a teacher and carpenter, was born in Washington County, Penn., in 1784; was raised on a farm, and received his education in the common schools and subscription schools of Washington County. He was a very sue cessful teacher, having taught three years in his own house; left the school to raise a company in Belmont County, Ohio, to go to the war of 1812, serving all through it, marching with his men across the State from St. Clairsville to Lake Erie; took active part through all the campaign at Detroit and Fort Stephenson (Croghan), and came back home very much broken in health. Capt. Stephenson moved, in 1821, with his family to Crawford County, Ohio, where he took an active part in opening up the new country; purchased land of the Government, and cleared up a very fine farm three miles west of Bucyrus, where he died about the year 1830. Capt. Stephenson took an active part in church and educational matters, and everything for the good of society. He departed this life very highly esteemed by his many friends and acquaintances.

PROF. WILLIAM H. STEPHENSON, farmer and teacher, Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, July 13, 1842, son of John A. and Sarah (Stephenson) Stephenson, natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish descent, and who were parents of four children. His father came to this county, and

1042 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

settled in Venice Township in 1831, obtaining land from the Government. Our subject was raised on the farm, receiving his education in his native township and at the high school of Bucyrus, Ohio. He has taught twenty-eight terms in this county, mostly in the schools of Venice Township. He favors and is a constant attendant of the teachers' institutes, and he himself writes for educational journals. He was married, in 1866, to Maria, daughter of Francis Montgomery, and of Irish descent, and their children are Homer (attending the Attica High School), Frank O., William M. and Cora. Prof. Stephenson and wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, and he has been Sabbath-school superintendent for many years. Politically he is a Republican. During the late civil war he enlisted, in 1864, as a member of Company F, Sixty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in several engagements and served till the close of the war. He was taken prisoner the day Lee surrendered, and was discharged as a prisoner of war. He is chaplain of Post 112 of the G. A. R. He took an active interest in the Grange movement, and served two years as secretary in that organization. He served two years as secretary and one term as Worthy Chief of the Good Templars, and is a F. & A. M. His farm comprises sixty-six acres of well-improved land, located a mile and a half south of Attica on the Sandusky pike.

LESTER SUTTON, attorney and banker; Attica, was born in Steuben County, N. Y., July 13, 1836, son of John and Christina (True) Sutton; the former, a native of Pennsylvania, was of Dutch descent, the latter, born in New York, was of English lineage. John Sutton, a farmer, was twice married, our subject being the eldest child by the second wife. Lester Sutton was reared on the farm, remaining with his parents until he was seventeen years old, when he commenced teaching school, an occupation he followed until he was almost twenty-three years of age, He then began the study of law at Tiffin, Ohio, in the office of Col. Leander Stem, and was admitted to the bar in 1867. He opened an office at Attica in 1865, and has been in active practice here ever since. In 1880 Mr, Sutton started in the banking business, and has since divided his time between the bank and his profession. He was united in marriage, in 1859, to Emaline Rundell, and to this union were born four children: Leonard L., attending college; Laura, Charles and Luella. Mrs. Sutton is a member of the Baptist Church. In politics Mr. Sutton is a Republican.

ISAAC TANNER, farmer and stock-raiser, Attica, was born in Newport Township, Herkimer County, N. Y., August 24, 1811, son of John, a farmer, and Nancy (Nortrip) Tanner, natives of Rhode Island and of English descent, and of whose nine children. Isaac is the fifth. The parents and grandparents of Isaac Tanner, our subject, moved into New York State, when a wilderness, with only here and there a settlement, wild animals being in abundance. The schooling of our subject was obtained in his native State. He came from New York to Ohio in 1854, and settled in Venice Township, this county, when Attica was not worthy of being called even a village, where he has followed farming, an occupation in which he has been successful, and is now the owner of a farm. Mr. Tanner was married, in 1833, to Hannah, daughter of Isaac and Tabitha (Bently) Tanner and granddaughter of Isaac Tanner, Sr. She was born June 27, 1813, in Schuyler Township, Herkimer Co., N. Y. This union has been blessed with six children, of whom only two are now living: Augustus U. B. and Eugene B., both farmers in Venice Township, this county, and both married; the former of whom served its a soldier all through the late war of the Rebellion (he has two children: Avis Agnes and Harley Martin). The parents and grandparents of Mr. and Mrs. Tanner were

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1043

from Rhode Island. Our subject and wife are members of the Universalist Church.

HENRY V. TRUMPLER, agent for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, Carrothers, was born in Venice Township, this county, February 17, 1853, son of Peter and Christine (Deisler) Trampler, natives of Bavaria, Germany, and who reared a family of seven children, five now living, of whom Henry V. is the youngest. Peter Trampler, father of our subject, a shoe-maker by trade, was among the early settlers of Venice Township, and here followed farming as an occupation. He was a member of the German Church, and died in 1870. Our subject received his education in the common schools, chose farming as. an occupation and followed agricultural pursuits until 1884, when he sold his farm of 109 acres adjoining the village of Carrothers and entered his present occupation. He was united in marriage, in 1881, with Rebecca, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Revert) Meiser, and a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch descent. Mr. and Mrs. Trampler are members of the English Reformed Church, in which he is deacon. In politics he is a Republican.

J. W. WALKER, furniture dealer and undertaker, Attica, was born in Cadiz, Harrison Co., Ohio, February 27, 1849, son of John and Fanny (Hoff man) Walker, the former a native of Virginia of Irish descent, the latter of New Jersey and of Welsh lineage. His father, who was a plasterer and stonemason, came to Attica, Ohio, in 1852. He is now residing on a farm in Huron, County, Ohio. Our subject is the third of eight children born to his parents, and is the oldest of the four that lived to grow up. His education was .obtained in the common school, Baldwin University, Berea, Ohio, and at the Northwestern Normal College at Republic, Ohio. He learned the trade of a stone-mason and plasterer, which he followed for twelve years during the summer months, teaching school in the winters, commencing at the age' of nineteen years. He was married, April 12, 1874, in Huron County, Ohio, to Miss Jennie Fast, who was born in Ashland County, Ohio, and of Dutch origin. To this union were born Winfred J., Royall B. (who died in infancy) and Rollo E. Soon after his marriage Mr. Walker purchased a small farm in Richmond Township, Huron Co., Ohio, where he resided until the spring of 1880, when he sold the farm and bought property in Attica, this county. In 1881 he entered into partnership in the furniture and undertaking business, which he still follows, having since purchased the entire stock. Mr. and Mrs. Walker are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church. Mr. Walker usually votes the Democratic Ticket. He is a member of Venice Lodge No. 197, I. O. O. F.

E. WEAVER, Attica, one of the most extensive farmers and stock-raisers of this county, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1856, son of Samuel Weaver, a native of Carroll County, Md., born in 1822, a farmer by occupation, and who came among the early settlers to this county. Samuel Weaver was united in marriage with Sarah Bixler, who was born in 1824, and to this union were born eight children, of whom six are living. They were of German descent. The father died in 1863, and the mother died in 1866. Samuel Weaver owned 320 acres of land, and since his death the sons have paid all out-standing debts, bought more land, and at present the farm comprises 420 acres of well-improved land, which is well stocked. E. Weaver, our subject, received his education in Freeport, Ill. In politics he is a Democrat.

MARTIN S. WEAVER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Washington County, Penn., April 17, 1811, son of John, a farmer, and Catherine (Spoon) Weaver, natives of Pennsylvania .and of German descent. Our subject, the eighth in a family of twelve children, was reared on the farm, receiving a com-

1044 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

coon school education, and has followed agricultural pursuits through life. He now owns a farm of 117 acres of land in Venice Township, where he has lived since 1833. He was married, in 1831, to Narcissus, daughter of Valentine Cooper, a farmer, and of English descent. She died in 1860 and subsequently Mr. Weaver married Mrs. Abigail (Bennington) Thompson, widow of Adam Thompson. Mr. Weaver is the father of eleven children, nine of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, viz.: Washington, Joseph, John V., Mary, Elizabeth, Clarcy C. and Sarah, by his first wife, and Juliann, Jane, and John W. (deceased), by his last marriage. Two sons served in. the Union Army during the civil war, one dying in his country's defense. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church. .In politics he is a Republican.

J. B. WILHELM, farmer, T. O. St. Stephen, was born in France October 6, 1844, son of John and Catherine (Swailer) Wilhelm, also natives of France. His father, who was a farmer, came to America in 1857, remaining two years in the State of New York, and thence came to and settled on a farm in Bloom Township, this county. Our subject, the eldest of four children, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the county schools at Republic Academy and Baldwin University, a Methodist institute at Berea, Ohio. At the age of twenty-two he commenced to teach school, chiefly in Stark County. He taught ten months each year for two years, and then for eight winters, working in the summers. He is an extensive reader. Mr. Wilhelm was married, in 1871, to Marcella, daughter of Matthew and Annie (Melio) Delancy, natives of Ireland, her father being an early settler of Venice Township, this county, and to this union were born the following children: Francis X., Catherine and Clara. They are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Wilhelm is one of the trustees of Venice Township. In politics he is a Democrat. He is owner of 126 2/3 acres of well-improved land.

E. D. WILLIAMS, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Morgan County, Ohio, January 6, 1853, son of O. H. and Agnes (Shepherd) Williams, natives of Ohio and of English and French descent, the former a carpenter in early life, but later a successful farmer, still residing on a farm. Their family consisted of twelve children, seven of whom now survive. Our subject, the fourth in the family, was reared on the farm. His education was obtained in the normal school, Lebanon, Ohio, and at Fostoria, this county, where he attained his majority. He first taught school for six years, and then for three years farmed in the summers and taught in the winters. he has three sisters and one brother who have followed the same profession, and his brother E. E. is now a successful lawyer in West Jefferson, Madison Co., Ohio. Our subject was married, in 1879, to Miss A. J. McKibben, of Scotch-Irish descent and daughter of James B. McKibben, a pioneer farmer of Venice Township, this county, but now a resident of Reed Township, this county. To this union were born two children: Bessie and Ivan. Mrs. Williams is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics Mr. Williams is a Republican.

By request of Mr. E. D. Williams the following letter, written to him by his brother, E. E. Williams, is inserted verbatim:

RINGGOLD Ohio, September 14, 1884.

Dear Brother: I received your letter yesterday. Many thanks for your kindness. Three weeks ago I visited the old home. I walked out from Malta. When I arrived at the brow of the hill above the old schoolhouse, being tired, I lay down on the grass beneath the shady beech trees that line the hillside, and while lying there I lived over again our whole past life My mind went back to our boyhood days when we used to play in the bright sunny meadows of southern Ohio. I could see every little mill and flutter-wheel we had ever made. I remembered our removal from Ringgold on to the old farm. I remembered our struggle with poverty, and I could see two little white-headed boys as they started out across the fields to their work, either taking over the hardness of their lot, or singing some old war song that made the hills ring with gladness. I could see their white heads bobbing up and down in the hot sun among the long corn rows, or after hoeing to the top of the hill, the giant strides we made to reach the bottom of the hill to begin anew another row. I remembered of lying behind the fence over behind the vineyard (which had not then been planted), waiting for the horn to

VENICE TOWNSHIP. - 1045

blow for dinner and talking over their wrongs, which were more imaginary than real. I remembered some of the things we were going to do when we became men. Yes; we would travel and see the world. I remembered our school days, the burning of the old schoolhouse on the hill, our fun and fights for our rights. I looked at the old schoolhouse near home and could see a great change; the storms had washed the dirt away from the foundation, and it looked as if in a few more years it would topple to the ground. There is a little grove of locust trees above the schoolhouse that I helped to plant, and I guess you did, too. I remembered our struggle to obtain an education. I can see two boys starting away from home their arrival at Newark, tbeir attendance at school at Fostoria and the normal school at Lebanon, Ohio, their success at school, and their success as teachers. Will the world ever be any better for our having lived in it? Certainly, if we do our duty, for that is all the most noted men ever accomplish. Memories of my brother who has ever been so true will last until this life is no more. Many, many things were brought to my memory which, though they may never be recorded on paper, in writing or print, yet they are printed on the pages of memory which will never be erased until reason is dethroned. Again, the scene is changed, and the wedding bells are ringing out their glad notes of joy. One has now the hand and heart of one of Seneca's fairest and best, whose love and womanly grace is a more precious heritage than palaces made of gold; they are living the same life of happiness lived by so many since the world was young. E. D. Williams is now living the grand old life of a farmer, the most useful occupation among men. May happiness, health and prosperity be his through a long and useful life, and a grand entrance into that rest that was planted for the children of men. The other (E. E. Williams) is still fighting the battle of life where he is carrying off a few laurels in the practice of law. What will the future be? Time will tell.

From your affectionate brother,

E. E.

JACOB WISE, retired farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Cumberland County, Penn., January 16, 1819. His parents, John and Sophia (Wise) Wise, though of same name, were not related. His father was a native of Germany, and when quite young came to America, settling in Pennsylvania; his mother was a native of Pennsylvania, where they were married. The fattier of our, subject, who was a blacksmith, came to this county in 1827. He obtain a State contract to build one mile and a half of turnpike in Reed Township, this county, for which he was to receive 413 acres of land in that township and $300 in cash. He completed the contract and commenced to improve his land, but died in 1834, having cleared but twenty acres. In politics he was a Jacksonian Democrat. He was a member and trustee of the Lutheran Church. Of his family of thirteen children ten attained maturity. Our subject, the seventh born, was educated in the log schoolhouse, the first built in Venice Township, and which was located on the site of his present residence in Attica. He grew up on the farm, learned the mason's trade, and at the age of twenty-one leased the homestead farm, proved himself to be a successful agriculturist, and later bought the interest of the other heirs in the estate for which he now holds the deed given to his father by the State. He has been twice married, the first time, in 1840, to Eliza Armsby, of EnglishIrish descent, and who bore him six children, three of whom are now living Alfred, a farmer, married; Josephine, wife of Benjamin Van Fleet, and Frank at home. This wife dying in 1870, Mr. Wise, in 1871, married Mrs. Mary (Sutton) Hall, widow of Thomas Hall. Mrs. Hall had two children: Lester and Albert. Mr. and Mrs. Wise are members of the Regular Baptist Church. of which he has been deacon for the past twenty-five years. He has been a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity for twenty-five years; also is a member of Venice Lodge No. 197, I. 0. 0. F. During the late civil war he was a member of the Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Home Guards, which was called into active service for 100 days near the close of that struggle. llc is a member of the G. A. R. He has served his township as trustee. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN C. WORM, farmer, P. O. Carrothers, was born in Venice Township, this county, April 13, 1848, son of Christian and Hannah (Lehman) Worm, who were among the pioneers of this county; coming hero from Germany in 1833. Our subject, the eldest of a family of six children, was reared on the farm in Venice Township, attending the district school. When he was twenty years old he commenced to learn the carpenter's trade, and has since continued to work at same; in partnership with his brother Matthias, he carried on the farm which is well-improved, consisting of nearly 200 acres of good land. Our subject was married, May 4, 1875, to Philomena, daughter of John B.

1046 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

and Margaret (Steinmetz) Falter, and sister of Mrs. Matthias Worm. To this union were born following children: Mary J., Martha Celia, Clement A., Joseph Lawrence and Maggie J. The family are members of the Catholic Church. Politically Mr. Worm is a Democrat.

MORRIS WURTS, hardware merchant, Attica, was born in Canada, March 9, 1833, son of Abraham and Rhoda (Willow) Wurts, the former a native of New Jersey, of German descent, the latter a native of Canada, of English lineage. His father, a cooper by trade, also a farmer, was thrice married, and had twenty-one children, Morris being the third born of the fourteen children by last wife. Our subject received his education in Huron County, Ohio, where his parents resided in an early day. He was reared on the farm, and followed agricultural pursuits until 1878, when he removed to Attica. In 1884 he bought a half interest in the hardware store of Armatage & Wurts. He leas been remarkably successful in business, owns town property at Bellevue, a fine residence in Attica, and a well-improved farm comprising 193 acres in Huron County, Ohio. He wad married in 1860, to Caroline, daughter of Peter Burket, who was born in Ohio, of German descent. Their children are Harriet Edith, Loa Almetta and Merle Ethel. Mr. and Mrs. blurts are members of the Protestant Methodist Church, of which he has been trustee. In politics he is a Democrat.