500 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. upon the Doctor's taking up a line of editorial work on the Seneca Advertiser, and he did very efficient service in this capacity. He is a felicitous public speaker and his services have long been in requisition in this capacity, both in connection with political work and on various other occasions. The Doctor was one of the organizers of the Seneca County Agricultural Society, with which he continued to be identified until the organization became defunct. In 1857 he became a member of Green Spring Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, being later dimitted to Tiffin Lodge, of which he has been a prominent member for a score of years. While Dr. Kagy has a deep respect for spiritual verities, he has advanced and pronounced views and is in thorough sympathy with the doctrines advanced by the late Colonel Robert G. Ingersoll. He was reared under the rigid .discipline of the Baptist church, and such is the constituency of his vigorous mentality that he early began to be somewhat skeptical as to the consistency of orthodox religious tenets, and his reading and investigation eventually led him to become an avowed agnostic. His mind is intrinsically logical and he demands reasons, not dogmatic statements, and thus he secured little satisfaction in attempting to reconcile religious doctrines with scientific truths. He has been an extensive and careful reader, has marked powers of assimilation, and his analytical and logical mind has brought to him definite convictions, which he is ever able to effectively defend. In 1867 the Doctor retired to the old Kagy homestead, in Eden township, and to this he has since added until he now has a fine landed estate of two hundred and twenty-five acres. He has made this his home for many years, and save for intervals when official or business duties demanded his residence elsewhere, has continuously given his personal supervision to the cultivation of the farm and to the raising of a high-grade of live stock, having been very successful in both departments of his farming enterprise. The Doctor is one of the county's most progressive and public-spirited citizens, and he has so ordered his life as to command unequivocal confidence and esteem in the county where he has passed practically his entire life. CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 501 On the 29th of March, 1849, Dr. Kagy was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Taylor Martin, who was born in Perry county, Ohio, being the daughter of Samuel S. and Mary (McCormick) Martin. Three children have been born of this union, namely : Samuel T., who died in infancy; Mary C., who is the wife of Thomas J. Frazier, of Zanesville; and 'Hannah S., who is the wife of Dr. James S. Haly, of Napoleon, Ohio. JOHN W. SPRAGGINS. John W. Spraggins, general superintendent of the National Machinery Company, of Tiffin, Ohio, was born in Cambridgeshire, England, January 30, 1861. When eight years old he accompanied his parents, Isaac and Mary Ann (Granger) Spraggins, to America. In England the elder Mr. Spra.ggins was employed as a gamekeeper, but after locating in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1868, he became connected with the firm of Scofield & Wilson, which firm were the pioneers in the business which has developed into the gigantic corporation now known as the Standard Oil Company. Mr. Spraggins was a faithful employe and a hard-working man until his death, which took place at the age of forty-nine years. The mother of Mr. Spraggins, of this sketch, died at the age of fifty years, as the result of a street-car accident. The children who sun vived infancy were as follows : Anna, who died early; John W., who is the subject of this biography; Alice, who married William Farrel, of Shelby, Ohio; Isaac, who is a. boiler-maker for the Standard Oil Company in Cleveland; Nellie, living' at Camden, New Jersey ; and Anna, who is the wife of John Little, a resident of Cleveland, who has an interest in the Shelby Tube Works. The school life of our subject closed at the age of nine years, when he had mastered the mysteries of the Third Reader. Although but a lad his growing needs had to be supplied by his own labor, and he accepted a position in a brick-yard in Cleveland, remaining there until he was made a messenger boy in the service of the Standard Oil Company. His 502 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. father was long an employe, and was the inventor of the steam still now in use by this company. The youth continued in this situation for several years and then became a clerk in a shoe store in Cleveland, all the time gaining a firmer hold on. the respect and in the esteem of those with whom he was associated. In 1878 he entered upon an apprenticeship in Cleveland in the trade of machinist, and remained three years, becoming a skilled workman, his capacity and general character causing his engagement with the National Machinery Company when it removed its plant from Cleveland to Tiffin. This was on January 12, 1883, the business then being one of small proportions, but before the roof was on the new factory the confidence of his employers was shown to Mr. Spraggins by his selection by them as foreman, which position he most efficiently filled for the succeeding six years. In 1895 he was made general superintendent, and has filled this responsible position ever since. The National Machinery Company is a large industrial plant, its capitalization being three' hundred thousand dollars, and its force of workmen reaching some two hundred and sixty skilled mechanics, its output being shipped all over the United States and Europe. This business is the manufacturing of machinery for the making of wire nails, nuts and bolts and special machinery, the volume of trade having increased since its location in Tiffin to a wonderful extent. Mr. Spraggins has followed the fortunes of this company from the bottom and much of its success must be regarded as, a result of his efficient superintendence. In marked degree he possesses just the qualities required in such a position, and he enjoys not only the confidence and esteem of his employers but also the respect and obedience of those; under his supervision. On January 19, 1882, Mr. Spraggins was united in marriage to Miss Isabella McCoy, of Cleveland, and a family of three children has been born to them, namely: Charles A., who learned the machinist trade, and who has just finished a business course in Heidelberg University; and Linnie and William H., Jr., both of whom are at home. In his political sympathies Mr. Spraggins has long been an active CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 503 member of the Republican party and has many friends in its ranks, although he has not consented to hold office. Fraternally his connection is with the B. P. O. E., Lodge No. 94, of Tiffin; Pickwick Lodge., No. 175, Knights of Pythias; Uniform Rank, No. 50; the Knights of the Maccabees, and the United Workmen. His family are attendants of the Presbyterian church of this city, where they are held in esteem. It can not be otherwise than inspiring to consider a career like that of Mr. Spraggins and to note its results and rewards. His early environment was shorn of almost every worldly advantage, but through sheer force of character 'he has surmounted the innumerable obstacles in his path and has won prominence and competency and the respect and affection of a large circle of friends. FREDERICK L. SMELTZ. As a representative of one of the pioneer families of Seneca county and as one who has here passed his entire life, it is certainly consistent that we enter in this work a review of the career of Mr. Smeltz, who has long. been identified with the agricultural and stock-growing interests of the county, having a fine estate in Venice township and being honored as one of its representative men. He is a native of the township in which he now maintains his home, having been born on the old pioneer homestead on the 17th of July, 1852, the son of Martin and Christianna (Lebold) Smeltz, who became the parents of ten children, of whom five survive, namely: Conrad, a resident of Venice township; Franklin, whose home is in Caldwell county, Missouri; Frederick L., the subject of this sketch; Maria, the wife of John West, of Bloomville; and Sophia, the wife of Levi Hillis, of the old homestead. Martin Smeltz was a native of Darmstadt, Germany, and was a son of Peter Smeltz, who emigrated thence to Pennsylvania when Martin was a lad of seven years. Peter Smeltz afterward removed to Carroll county, Ohio, where he became a pioneer farmer and where he 504 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. passed the remainder of his life. Martin Smeltz, father of our subject, came to Seneca county while still a single man and here entered claim to a tract of three hundred and sixty acres of heavily timbered land in Venice township. Here he erected a log cabin and made ready to bring his family to the new home. Before starting on his return journey to Carroll county he placed his cooking utensils beneath the split-plank floor of his little cabin, and while on his way he encountered a family named Delaney, to whom he gave information as to the point where he had erected his house, and the family were given permission to occupy the same during the winter. Mr. Smeltz returned with his wife, whom he had married in Tuscarawas county in the meantime, and here he developed a good farm, becoming one of the honored and successful farmers of this section. His wife died about the year 1855, and he subsequently married a Miss Mary Lenhardt, there being no issue of this union. Martin Smeltz lived to attain the venerable age of seventy-two years, his death occurring, in Caroline in the year 1880. Frederick L. Smeltz, to whom this sketch is dedicated, was reared on the parental homestead and received such educational advantages as were afforded in the public schools maintained in this locality in the clays of his youth, while he early began to lend. his assistance in the work of the farm.. At the age of eighteen years he assumed charge of the home place and there continued to make his home for several years farther. He was married in the fall of 1878 and about a year later he removed to his present home farm at Caroline, which was then owned by his father-in-law and which he purchased in 1884. In 1880 he purchased a tract of eighty acres adjoining this farm, opposite his present home. In 1897 Mr. Smeltz purchased fifty-three acres contiguous on the south, and in addition to this his wife owns about eighty acres additional in the township, so that the aggregate area of the landed estate is two hundred and forty acres. For the last few years our subject has been to a large degree retired from the active work of the farm, having his land cultivated by others on shares. He has one of the finest and most modern farm residences iii the county, erected in 1880-1, and the family home is a center of generous hospitality. He is held in the highest CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 505 esteem in his native county and is known as an able business man and as one whose probity is above question. Mr. Smeltz fully appreciates the charms and broadening influence of travel, and has visited nearly all the states of the Union. In politics he gives his allegiance to the Republican party, taking a lively interest in all that concerns the general welfare of the community and lending his aid and influence for all worthy objects. His religious faith is that of the Protestant Methodist church, of which his wife and children are devoted adherents. On the 1st of October, 1878, Mr. Smeltz was united in marriage to Miss Christianna M. Lebold, who was born in Venice township, the daughter of Frederick and Rachel (McKibben) Lebold, one of the influential pioneer citizens of this locality, where he was engaged' in agricultural pursuits until the time of his death, at sixty-eight. Frederick Lebold was born in Wittemberg, Germany, a son of Conrad and Christianna (Eichenhofer) Lebold, and when one year old was brought to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, and at thirteen to Venice township, Seneca county. He was married at twenty-seven to Rachel McKibben, who was born in Pennsylvania and brought to Seneca county when four years old, and who is still living at the old home at Caroline, aged seventy-three. Mrs. Smeltz was the only child to reach maturity and she was born and reared in this vicinity. Our subject and his wife 'have two children,—Lawson F. and Inez A.,—both being popular young people and taking an active part in the social affairs of the community where they have been reared and educated. WILLIAM CRAMER. Honored and respected by all, William Cramer was for many years identified with the agricultural interests of Seneca county, Ohio, but he is now living retired at his pleasant home in Fostoria. He was born in York county, Pennsylvania, March 30, 1831, a son of John and Catherine (Sloat) Cramer. His father, also a native of that county, was - 32 - 506 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. born on the 25th of September, 1794. He was there married, and all of his children were born in the Keystone state. About 1836. he came with his family to Seneca county, Ohio, locating in Loudon township, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on the present site of the Cramer sawmill. There he also erected a sawmill, which was conducted by water power until about 1840, but it was in operation only about three months during the year. In this locality Mr. Cramer passed to his final reward on the 29th of June, 1859. Unto this worthy couple were born ten children, eight of whom still survive, namely : Daniel, who now makes his home with our subject ; Henry, a resident of Fostoria ; John, of Van Wert, Ohio; Emanuel, a resident of Ionia county, Michigan ; Adam, also of Fostoria ; William, of this review ; Sophia, the widow of Peter Wickerham and a resident of Big Spring township, Seneca county; and Sarah, the wife of Augustus Elliott, of Ionia. county. Michigan. Three of the children have now reached the eightieth milestone on the journey of life, and the youngest has passed the age of sixty-five years. William Cramer, our subject, was reared amid the refining influences of a cultured home, and the educational privileges which he enjoyed in his youth were those afforded by the common schools. At the age of twenty-four years and in company with his brother Daniel, he erected a steam sawmill on the site of his father's old mill, the latter having fallen into decay, but this property was destroyed by fire in 1860, and in the same year, in company with his brother-in-law, Morgan Snyder, Mr. Cramer erected the fine mill property which is still standing. After his father's death he acquired eighty acres of the old homestead, which he conducted in connection with his milling business, and for Many years he also operated a threshing machine. In 1894, however, he sold his possessions to his son Daniel H., and removed to the village of Fostoria, where he is now living a retired life, enjoying the fruits of former toil. On the 19th of October, 1856, Mr. Cramer was united in marriage to Miss Charlotte Snyder, a native of Mahoning county, Ohio, and the daughter of Abraham and Susannah (Smith) Snyder. The latter died of typhoid fever at Nashville, Tennessee, July 23, 1864, while nobly serv- CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 507 ing his country in the Civil war. This union has been blessed with ten children, nine of whom are still living: Daniel H.; William A., a traveling salesman of Fostoria; Jennie, the wife of Isaac Stultz, of Jackson township, Seneca county; Morgan E., a member of the Fostoria fire department; John J., an electrician of Fostoria; Nettie A., the wife of John Hazen, also of Fostoria; Anna S., the wife of Edward Seeman, of Dunkirk, Indiana; Allie A., a saleslady; and Fred V., also an electrician, at home. The Republican party receives Mr. Cramer's hearty support and co-operation, and for one term he has served as a justice of the peace. His religious preference is indicated by his connection with the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he is an honored and esteemed member and for many years has served as its class-leader. Throughout his business career he was emphatically a man of enterprise, positive character, indomitable energy and liberal views, and is thoroughly identified in feeling with the growth and prosperity of the county which has so long been Ins- home. DANIEL WILLIAMS. How rapidly time is. thinning the ranks of the brave boys in blue who went forth in defense of the nation's integrity during the dark and stormy epoch of the Civil war is, evident to even the superficial observer, and the silvered heads of those who appear in the ranks of the veterans at the various encampments of the Grand Army of the Republic show whither the line of march is tending. The younger generation may well look in admiration and honor upon these valiant sons of the republic who saved to the world a grand and united country, and though time has thrown its beneficent influence over the story of the great conflict and the animosities of the past have been softened and chastened, yet never can there be aught but appreciation of the services of the men who followed the stars and stripes on the sanguinary battle fields of the south. One of the honored veterans of the war of the Rebellion is the subject of this 508 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. brief tribute, whose home has been in Seneca county during the entire period of his life and who is to-day numbered among the successful farmers of this section of the state. Mr. Williams was born on a farm in Jackson township, this county, on the 1st of May, 1842, being one of the eight children of John and Barbara Williams and one of the five who are living at the present time. Three of the sons went forth in defense of the Union during the war of the Rebellion, and one of the number sacrificed his life on the altar of his country. John Williams, who is now a resident of Michigan, was in the one hundred days' service, and David, who was a member of Company E, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, enlisted at the age of eighteen years and was so seriously wounded in the battle of Stone River that lie died from his injuries, passing away at Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The subject of this sketch was reared on the old homestead, securing his early educational training in the district schools, and he was but twenty years of age when he took up arms in defense of an imperiled Union, enlisting on the 13th of September, 1862, as a private in Company E, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of which his brother David was a member, as has been noted. The first engagement of importance in which our subject took part was that at Stone River, and thereafter he was an active participant in many of the most memorable conflicts incidental to the great struggle for the perpetuation of the Union, including the battles of Liberty Gap, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, the Atlanta campaign in its entireity, the battle of Nashville and the engagement at Pickett's Mills, where it is evident that he was in the thick of the fray, since sixteen bullets passed through his clothes. M. Williams rendered valiant service and remained in the ranks until victory crowned the Union arms, being honorably discharged in June, 1865, and being mustered. out at Nashville. General Rosecrans established a roll of honor of those soldiers who had become distinguished, and Private Daniel Williams was one of two named from Company E, and was distinguished by wearing a special ribbon. After the demoralization of the forces during the battle of Stone River but six privates of his corn- CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 509 pany stacked arms that night. His action led his superiors to select him for this special honor. After his discharge Mr. Williams returned to Jackson township and resumed his identification with agriculture. He has made this township his home during his entire life and he took up his residence on his present well improved farm in 1893, having .ninety acres and devoting his attention to general farming. He is highly honored in the community, is a Republican in his political proclivities and keeps in touch with his old comrades in arms by retaining membership in the Grand Army of the Republic, being affiliated with Norris Post, at Fostoria, of which he is a popular member. His religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which both he and his wife are devoted adherents. On the 24th of January, 1867, Mr. Williams was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Smith, who was born in Stark county, the daughter of Philip Smith, and they became the parents of four children, namely: Martha E., the widow of Ernest M. Solomon and now residing with her parents ; she has one son, Hubert L. ; Myrtie A. became the wife of Daniel Fell and died in this county at the age of twenty-six years ; Ella is the wife of Frank Harrison, of Jackson township, and has two sons.—Roy W. and Ralph ; and John, the youngest of our subject's children, is associated with his father in the operation of the farm. CHARLES R. LONG. Charles R. Long, the leading liveryman of Fostoria, was born in Hancock county, Ohio, February 14, 1872, a son of John W. and Margaret ( Ricketts) Long. The father also was born in that county, in 1831. His mother died when he was a child and he was afterward reared in the home of John Ricketts. When twenty years of age he was united in marriage to Margaret Ricketts, the niece of John Ricketts, also a native of the same county, and after their marriage they purchased a forty-acre tract and engaged in farming. In 1876 he removed to Dun- 510 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. kirk, Hardin county, Ohio, where he embarked in the livery business and also engaged in the sale of buggies, thus continuing until 1895, and during that time he was very successful, having sold over fifteen hundred buggies in that village alone. In the latter year he engaged in the same line of trade in Findlay, but in 1901 he sold his livery business and has since given his attention to the supervision of his farm of four hundred and twenty-eight acres in Hardin county, though residing in Findlay. He gives his political support to the Republican party, and in his social relations is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Long was blessed with nine children, six now living, namely : Charles R., the subject of this review ; James, engaged in the livery business in Findlay ; Harvey, in the same line of trade in Napoleon, this state; Raleigh, who is engaged in business with his brother James in Findlay; Robert, who is in the employ with our subject; and Hazel, at home. Charles R. Long is indebted to the common schools of his native locality for the educational privileges which he enjoyed in his early youth, and. afterward he became a student in the Ohio Normal University at Ada, Ohio. From 1895 until 1896 he was engaged in the livery business with his father, but in that year the latter sold his interest to George Rummel, which relationship was maintained through the succeeding year, Mr. Long then selling his interest in order to remove to Rising Sun and engage in the same line of trade. For two years he was actively identified with the business interests of that city, but desiring a broader field for his operations he then, in 1899, took up his abode in Carey, conducting a successful livery business in that city until September, 1901. That month witnessed his arrival in Fostoria, where he soon afterward purchased the interests of Russell E. Smith, one of the oldest and best known liverymen in this locality. He has a thoroughly equipped livery establishment, keeping twenty-five of the best roadsters; with a full complement of buggies, surreys, coaches, etc. Mr. Long has attained prominence in the business circles of Seneca county, while in private life no man in the community has more friends than lie, which have been won and are being retained by his honorable methods and his CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 511 outspoken devotion to the best interests of the community and his mental ability. The marriage of our subject was celebrated on the 25th of August, 1897, when Miss Nellie Babcock, a native of Akron, Ohio, became his wife. They have two children,—Joe and Franklin. Mr. Long gives his political support to the Republican party, and his social connection is with Carey Lodge, No. 393, K. of P. MELCHIOR STARCK. This well known farmer of Seneca county, Ohio, whose home is in Liberty township, was born in Germany in 1827, and is a son of Melchior and Margaret Starck. Reared and educated in his native land, he at length determined to try his fortune in the new world, and in 1848 sailed for America. After a long and tedious voyage of fifty-seven clays he landed in Quebec, and proceeded at once to Seneca county, Ohio. He located in Liberty township, on the farm where he has since lived with the exception of five years. On coming to this country he was accompanied by his parents, but the father died about five months after his arrival here. In his family were six children, of whom our subject is the oldest. In the midst of the forest Mr. Starck cleared and improved a farm, and built thereon a log cabin with a huge fireplace at one end. In this primitive home several years were pleasantly passed, but it has long since been replaced by a more commodious and pretentious brick dwelling. In his home farm he now has one hundred and sixty acres, and also owns another tract of eighty acres, making in all two hundred and forty acres, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation. He is a thorough and skillful farmer and in his labors has met with most excellent success During the dark days of the Civil war Mr. Starck entered the service of his adopted country, enlisting in June, 1864, as a private in Company 512 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. C, One Hundred and Twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained at the front until hostilities ceased, repeatedly taking part in skirmishes and battles, including Winchester, Cedar Creek and Petersburg, where he was wounded, receiving a bullet through his leg. Politically he is a stanch supporter of the Democratic party and its principles, and religiously is a communicant of Liberty Catholic church. He is widely and favorably known in the community where he has so long made his home, and well merits the high regard in which he is uniformly held. HON. AMOS DECKER. Amos Decker was born in Thompson township, Seneca county, on the old Decker homestead which he now owns, his natal day being the 11th of November, 1839. His father, Jacob Decker, was born in Union county, Pennsylvania, in 1809, and was a son of John Decker, who emigrated with his family to Wayne county, Ohio, taking up his abode there in 1816. He entered a tract of land from the government and in 1830 came to Seneca county, establishing his home in Thompson township, where he again secured government land. This is now the property of Henry Luce. He married Julia A. Royer and in the pioneer style of the times they began their domestic life. As the years passed. Mr. Decker accumulated considerable land and he also entered from the government the quarter-section upon which our subject was born. He died in his sixty-fourth year and the community mourned the loss of one of its representative and valuable citizens, for he had taken an active and helpful part in many measures for the general good. He aided in organizing the schools of Thompson township, was an active worker in the Reformed church and co-operated earnestly in every movement which he believed would advance the general welfare and progress of his county. Under the paternal roof Jacob Decker, the father of our subject, spent his boyhood days. His educational privileges were quite meager, CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 513 both because his services were needed in clearing and developing his father's farm and because of the primitive condition of the schools at that time. He was only seven years of age when with his parents he came to Ohio, and thus amid the wild scenes of the frontier he was reared. In 1828 he began working at the carpenter's trade, which he followed for three years, and was then married, in 1831, after which he lived for one year on the old homestead. He then removed to the farm upon which the birth of Amos Decker occurred, and made that place his home until 1868, when he took up his abode upon an adjoining farm, remaining there for two years. On the expiration of that period he removed to Bellevue, where his remaining days were passed, his death occurring on the 7th of November, 1896, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty-seven years. He married Miss Susan Billman, and they became the parents of six children, namely : Barbara, the wife of Joseph Sherck, of Bellevue; John, who is living near Brinkley, Arkansas. where he owns and operates a ranch; David, who is a farmer and veterinary surgeon of Oklahoma; Amos, of this review; Milton, of Bellevue: and Jefferson, who died in infancy. In public affairs Hon. Jacob Decker waS quite prominent. He Served for two terms as county commissioner and in 1849 was elected a representative of his district in the state legislature. Again he was called to that position, defeating William H. Gibson, one of the most prominent and influential residents of Seneca county. He was an active member of the general assembly of Ohio and to each question which came up for consideration he gave earnest thought and attention, fearlessly supporting the measures which he believed to be right, and with equal ardor opposing those which he believed would work to the detriment of his county and state. He voted with the Democracy and it was on the ticket of that party that lie was elected to office. Amos Decker, who was born and reared on the old family homestead. entered the district schools at the usual age and afterward became a student in the Republic Academy under Professor Aaron Schuyler, the noted mathematician. When twenty-one years of age he took charge of the old home farm and throughout his entire life has been engaged 514 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. in agricultural pursuits. As a companion and helpmate for the journey of life he chose Miss Lucy Paine, a daughter of Hon. John W. Paine and a granddaughter of John Paine, who was one of the pioneer settlers of Adams township, Seneca county. It was in that township that Mr. and Mrs. Paine married, and in 1865 they removed to Thompson township to the farm upon which Christian Woleslagle now resides. Mr. Paine served as notary public and also held the office of justice of the peace in Adams township. He was an attorney at law and his knowledge of the principles of jurisprudence enabled him to discharge his duties as justice with excellent ability. He was called to represent his district in the state legislature, serving during the sessions of 1856-7 and succeeding Jacob Decker. For a second term he was elected and held the office in 1860-61. He left the impress of his individuality upon the legislation enacted during those periods and widely was he recognized as one of the most prominent and honored residents of his community. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Decker was celebrated October 20, 1864, and afterward he took charge of the old home farm. In 1866 he purchased a part of this, becoming owner of one hundred and eighty acres. He made his home thereon for nine years and then came to the farm; upon which he now resides. Many excellent improvements has he placed upon his property. He has here sixty-seven acres, but his landed possessions aggregate three hundred and twenty-seven acres, in Thompson township. He carries on general farming and stock-raising, having for many years purchased and sold stock in connection with his farm operations. In 1887 he became connected with the grain trade in Bellevue, where he remained for three years, associated with Mr. Gardner for two years of that time and afterward with his father, Jacob Decker. He next formed a partnership with Mr. Sherck, to whom he subsequently sold his interest. In all his business undertakings his effores have been characterized by enterprise, sound judgment and executive ability. He carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes and his labors have been crowned with a high degree of success. CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 515 Unto Mr. and Mrs. Decker have been born fourteen children: Emma, the wife of J. D. Royer, of Thompson township; Clara, the wife . of S. F. Royer, a brother of Judge J. C. Royer, of Tiffin; Susie, the wife of E. E. Elliott, of York township, Sandusky county; Mary, who was engaged in teaching for several years and is living with her parents; Charles A., who makes his home in Thompson township; Mattie V., who for three years has been engaged in teaching; Myra, Harry W., Ralph and Ross, all of whom are now under the parental roof ; Irvin J. and Sarah, who passed away in infancy, as well as an infant not named; and Nelson, who died at the age of thirteen years. Mr. Decker has for many years been recognized as a leader of public thought and opinion in his locality. In 1880 he was chosen to represent his district in the legislature, and by re-election served for two consecutive terms. He was an active and honored member of that body, served on a number of important committees, and to the best of his ability—and that ability is of no inferior order—he labored for the interest of his constituents and for the welfare of the commonwealth. He has also served in a number of local offices, for many years being a member of the school board, part of that time as its president. For four years he was township clerk and in 1890 was chosen justice of the peace, in which capacity he served until 1900. On two different occasions he was land appraiser. He has been a member of the central committee of the Democratic party and is generally found as a delegate to the principal party conventions. He is justly accorded a place among the prominent and representative citizens of Seneca county, for he belongs to that class of men whose enterprising spirit is used not alone for their own benefit. Mr. Decker is widely and favorably known throughout the state, his abilities well fitting him for leadership in political, business and social life. The terms progress and patriotism might be considered' the keynote of his character, for throughout his career he has labored for the improvement of every line of busines or public interest with which he has been associated, and at all times has been actuated by a fidelity to his country and her welfare. 516 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. ANTON SCHERGER. Though no land is richer in opportunities or offers greater advantages to its citizens than America, success is not to be obtained through desire, but must be persistently sought. In America "labor is king," and the man who resolutely sets to work to accomplish a given purpose is certain of success if lie has but the qualities. of perseverance, untiring energy and practical common sense. Anton Scherger is one whose career excites the admiration and gains the respect of all, for through his diligence and persistent purpose he has won a leading place in agricultural circles in Seneca county, where he has made his home since the age of eight years. Mr. Scherger was born in Germany April 15, 1837, a son of Anthony and Josephine Scherger, in whose family were three sons, our subject being the eldest. Constantine is now engaged in the marble business in Delphos, Ohio, and John Dolphus is a blacksmith at the same place. It was about 1844 that the father determined to seek a home in the new world, for, having heard favorable reports of the opportunities here offered, he believed that he might improve his financial condition in America. Accompanied by his wife and children, he took passage on a sailing vessel and on reaching the western shore of the Atlantic proceeded across the country to Cincinnati, where he remained for about a year. He then came to Seneca county and purchased forty acres of land in Liberty township, for which he paid two hundred dollars. There was a log cabin containing one room upon the place and the trees had been cut down on a five-acre tract, but the brush had not been cleared. Mr. Scherger at once began the further development of the place and soon the monarchs of the forest fell before his sturdy strokes. As acre after acre) was cleared he cultivated his fields, and in course of time golden harvests rewarded his labors. He continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred when he was seventy-three years of age. His wife survived him only a short period and then she, too, passed away. They were members of the Catholic church and were numbered among the worthy German citizens of Seneca county who have CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 517 contributed in a large measure to the substantial improvement of this portion of the state. Anton Scherger spent the first seven years of his life in the fatherland and then accompanied his parents on the long voyage across the Atlantic. He was a youth of eight when the family arrived in Liberty township and he contributed his full share to the arduous task of developing the home farm. The public schools afforded him his educational opportunities and through the winter months he pursued his studies, working in field and meadow in the summer seasons. On attaining his majority he began farming on his own account, taking charge of the old home place, which he has improved and operated until the present time. Here he has five hundred acres of valuable land, and he has elsewhere three other farms, so that his realty holdings aggregate eight hundred and sixty acres, constituting a very valuable and desirable property. His attention is given to general farming and stock-raising and in both branches of his business he is meeting with creditable success. All of the splendid improvements upon his place are monuments to his enterprise, industry and economy, and to-day his is one of the best equipped farms in this portion of Ohio. In 1889 he erected his beautiful nine-room residence, which is built of brick and has a slate roof. He has also built commodious and substantial barns and outbuildings and has a model country seat. Mr. Scherger was united in marriage April 25, 1857, to Miss Dorothy Albert, and unto them have been born ten children : Lawrence; Annie; John, deceased at thirty-six; Michael; Theresa; Henry; Andrew ; Joseph, Mary and Frank. Annie is the wife of Martin Hammer, of Jackson township; Therese is the wife of Joseph Burns, of Loudon township: and Mary is the widow of Stephen Hartenstine and resides with her parents. She has one child, Frank Alfred. The parents and their children are communicants of St. Andrew's Catholic church, and in his political affiliations Mr. Scherger is a Democrat, who warmly endorses the principles of the party which he believes most conducive to good government. During all the years of his residence in Seneca county he has given his support to measures for the 518 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. general welfare and has always been accounted one of the most progressive and practical farmers since he became identified with agricultural interests. Careful management, good business ability and honesty in trade transactions have brought to him the high degree of success which he now enjoys. JACOB COOK. Jacob Cook is numbered among Ohio's native sons, his birth having occurred in Richland county on the 6th of November, 1826. He was born and reared upon a farm and continued there to reside until twenty-one years of age, when he went to Sandusky county and was employed as a farm hand for ten dollars and a half per month. He spent a year there and on the expiration of that period came to Seneca county, where he was employed in the same capacity until 1852, When, attracted by the discovery of gold in California and hoping to acquire a competence more rapidly than was possible to do by engaging in farm work, he started for the Pacific coast by way of the overland route. He traveled by team, riding over eighteen hundred miles upon a mule. It was upon the 15th of March when he started and it was not until the last of July that he reached his destination. The journey was long and wearisome, leading over the hot stretches of sand and other deserts, through the mountain passes and through regions inhabited by Indians, but at length Mr. Cook safely reached California and entered the mining regions on the middle fork of the American river. He afterward went to Hangtown, making that journey in order to get provisions, and he carried forty dollars' worth of flour upon his shoulder back to the camp. In the succeeding spring he went to Frenchtown, where he and a partner purchased a wagon and blacksmith shop, this being located at Shingle Springs. The first day the work which they did brought them in an income of one 'hundred and twenty-five dollars. Mr. Cook continued in that business for three years, meeting with excellent success, his services being in c0nstant demand. He then sold his shop and returned CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 519 home. He had saved three thousand dollars, but this he intrusted to the keeping of friends and lost all except sixty dollars. Having to begin business life anew, he then purchased a team and followed freighting over the mountains, driving eight and sometimes ten teams. of mules to Virginia City, Silver City and other mining camps. He was one of the first teamsters to drive eight and ten-mule teams and the trips which he made covered from forty to one hundred and eighty miles. He received excellent prices for his services, hauling one load for which he was given nine hundred and sixty-five dollars. It took him about a month to make a trip, for the roads were often very poor, as little travel had been done in the far west up to that time. For ten years Mr. Cook engaged in teaming. At one time he could have sold his eight-mule team for five thousand dollars, but he refused the offer. On the last trip which he made he had two wagons coupled together and carried twenty-five thousand pounds of freight. On selling out his business in that line he purchased a livery stable in Sacramento, California, and continued in that business for one year. He often received from forty to one hundred and twenty-five dollars per day as rental for his teams, but when a year had elapsed he sold out, clearing about one thousand dollars on his stable. Wishing to return to Ohio, Mr. Cook disposed of his business interests in the far west and once more took up his abode in Thompson township, Seneca county, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres cf land, making his home thereon for three years. He afterward lived for seven years in Flatrock village, and when that period had elapsed he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land where he now resides in Thompson township. To-day his landed possessions comprise one hundred and ten acres, constituting a rich and valuable farm, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation and supplied with all modern equipments and improvements. Mr. Cook was united in marriage to Miss Mary Tomey, and they have four children living,—John, Otto, Ina and Lee. The daughter is the wife of George Bowersocks, and the sons are still at home. From his boyhood days Mr. Cook has held membership in the Evangelical 'church, with which he is still identified, and his Christian principles have 520 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. guided his life. His history, if written in detail, would form many an exciting as well as interesting story, for he lived in California at the time when there was no effective government organization, when the miners were largely a law unto themselves, and then the desperadoes often took matters into their own hands until the law-abiding citizens were aroused and established the vigilance committees. Mr. Cook knows what it is to endure all the hardships of life in a mining community far from civilization. He has enjoyed, too, the pleasures of a quiet home life in his native state, and in Seneca county he has many friends who esteem him highly for his sterling worth. OTHO A. BUNN. Otho A. Bunn was born upon the farm where he now lives on the 30th of July, 1866, and is a son of John R. Bunn. The family is well known in Seneca county, having been established here at an early day. The father of our subject was united in marriage to Amanda Bower and they became the parents of four children : Samuel, who died in infancy ; Ida, the wife of G. H. Park, a farmer of Liberty township; Otho A., whose name introduces this review; and Martha, who died at the age of six. The father was at one time a resident of Wyandot county, Ohio, and on leaving that locality came to Seneca county, settling in Liberty township on land which had been entered from the government by his father, David Bunn. On coming to this county he had secured a claim of one hundred and sixty acres and it has since been a possession of the family, being now the home of our subject. David began the making of the farm and died here. John R. Bunn continued to carry on agricultural pursuits on this farm up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1888, when he was seventy-two years of age. His widow still survives him and is yet living on the old homestead at the age of seventy-three years. The Bunn farm is dear to our subject, not only because it is the CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 521 residence of his later years but also on account of childhood associations. He pursued his education in the common schools, mastering the branches of English learning usually taught in such institutions. During the summer months, when school was not in session, he assisted in the work of the farm, and when twenty-two years of age he took charge of the old home place and has since worked it. He now owns ninety-seven acres of the land and is carrying on general farming. Everything about the place is indicative of the supervision of a practical and progressive owner who keeps in touch with modern improvement. On the 21st of February, 1893, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Bunn and Miss Ellen Stuckey, a daughter of Philip and Mary Ann (Rosenberger) Stuckey. They now have two interesting children,— Russell and Dora. Mr. and Mrs. Bunn are widely and favorably known in the county and enjoy the warm regard of many friends. He is a Republican in his political views, but has never taken an active interest in political work, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business, whereby he is winning a comfortable competence. As many of his warmest friends are numbered among those who have known him, from boyhood days it is an indication that his career has been straightforward and honorable. ELI KERN. Among the native sons of Seneca county is numbered Eli Kern, who for more than sixty years has lived in this portion of the state. He was born upon the farm which is yet his home, in Thompson town. ship, his natal day being August 21, 1839. His parents were Anthony and Sophia (Eberhardt) Kern, who resided in Union county, Pennsylvania. They became the parents of ten children, five sons and five daughters, of whom eight are now living. It was in the year I830 that Anthony Kern left the Keystone state and emigrated westward to what was then the frontier of Ohio, taking up his abode upon the farm in Seneca county which is now the home of his son Eli. His father, Peter - 33 - 522 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. Kern, had entered land from the government. It was covered with a heavy growth of timber through which the sunlight could hardly 'penetrate to the ground beneath, but Mr. Kern was a man of resolute spirit and strong determination and at once began the task of clearing the land and transforming it into richly cultivated fields. It was arduous work, but in course of time it was accomplished and his labors were rewarded with rich and abundant harvests which enabled him to enjoy many of the comforts of life. He continued to reside here throughout his remaining days, passing away at the advanced age of seventy-seven years. His wife had been called to her final rest four years before. It was upon the old family homestead here that Eli Kern was born and reared. At the usual age he entered school, walking to a little log school-house in which instruction was given after the primitive manner of the times. Like most farmer boys, his summer months were spent in the fields, where he assisted in the plowing, planting and harvesting, gaining a practical. training which enabled him to carry on farm work on his own account successfully at a later day. In 1876 Mr. Kern was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Bruner, and unto them were born three children, Elsie, Elva and Elma. The second daughter is the wife of John Drohen. After his. marriage Mr. Kern removed to the village of Lodi, where he conducted a sawmill for a year, but finding, that farm work vas more congenial he returned to the old homestead. After three years he purchased and conducted a threshing machine, making that his business through a long period. When his father died he returned to the old home place, which is now his property. It comprises eighty acres of land and in addition he owns and cultivates another farm of one hundred acres in Thompson township. In addition to the raising of the cereals best adapted to the soil and 'climate he is also engaged in stock-raising, and upon his place are high grades of horses, cattle and hogs. In his business undertakings he is industrious, indefatigable and straightforward, and his efforts have been crowned with a creditable measure of success. His political support is given the Democracy, and his religious faith is that of the Lutheran church, in which he has long held membership. From pioneer days down CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 523 to the present he has been an honorable and honored citizen of Seneca county, and though his life has been quietly passed it has ever been characterized by the faithful performance of duty and is therefore well worthy of emulation. GEORGE H. PARK. George H. Park is a representative of one of the honored pioneer families of Seneca county. When the greater part of this ccunty was in its primitive condition, when its lands were wild and unclaimed, when its streams were unbridged, its forests uncut and when the work of progress and improvement was a thing of the future, the Park family was founded here by George Park, the grandfather of our subject, and since that time different members of the family have contributed in large measure to the general improvement and substantial advancement which have brought about the present prosperity. The grandfather conducted a hotel in Tiffin—the first one there—and entertained the pioneer settlers who traveled to this region. His son, Peter D. Park, the 'father of our subject, was the first white male child born in the city of Tiffin, and amid the wild scenes of the frontier he was reared. When he had reached adult age he sought a companion and helpmate for the journey of life and wedded Sarah Heming. They became the parents of three children : George H.; Sarah M., who died in childhood; and Charles L., a resident of Liberty township. The mother died when her eldest child was only eight years of age. George H. Park and his brother, thus deprived of a mother's care, went to live with Jacob Fleck, by whom they were reared, our subject remaining in his family until he had attained the age of twenty-two years, at which time he was married and went to a home; of his own. At the age of eighteen he had begun working at the carpenter's trade and followed that pursuit for nine years, becoming a proficient builder. On the 6th of January, 1881, Mr. Park was joined in wedlock to Miss Ida Bunn, and unto them have been born three children,—Alverda 524 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. A., Lawrence C. and Minnie M.,—all yet at home. In 1886 Mr. Park removed to the farm upon which he now resides and which has since been continuously his home. Here he owns eighty acres and he also has another tract of eighty acres, all in Liberty township. He carries on general farming and stock-raising and has made most of the improvements upon his place. There are good buildings, well tilled fields, fine grades of stock and all modern accessories and equipments, and the farm is a very attractive and desirable country seat. While he has led a busy life, devoting the greater part of his attention to the operation of his land, Mr. Park has yet found time to faithfully perform all duties of citizenship. He gives his political allegiance to the Republican party, which he has supported since age gave to him the right of franchise. He never falters in his allegiance to its principles and he keeps well informed on the issues of the day, thus being able to support his position by intelligent argument. He has served as a trustee of Liberty township for six years, and his long continuance in the position. indicates his faithfulness to the duties devolving upon him. His religious faith is shown by his membership in, and work in behalf of, the Evangelical church, in which he has served as steward for twenty years. No trust reposed in him has ever been betrayed, and. his loyalty to truth and the right is among his strongest characteristics. He has spent his entire life in this county, and the fact that many of his warmest friends are numbered among those who have known him from boyhood is proof that his entire life has been straightforward and honorable. ISAAC ROYER. Isaac Royer is a representative of one of the pioneer families. of Seneca county, and is now actively identified with agricultural pursuits, being accounted a practical and progressive farmer of Thompson township. He was born in Union county, Pennsylvania, on the 1st of January. 1820, and is a son of John and Mary M. (Romig) Royer, in whose of were twelve children, six sons and six daughters. Of this num-