HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 225 one hundred and twenty acres of land in section 25, Dinsmore Township, on which he has since resided. He has made other purchases, and now owns a farm of one hundred and seventy acres of good land, which is under a good state of cultivation, and well improved. December 10, 1835, he married Miss Margaret Staley, daughter of Jacob and Margaret Staley. Miss Staley was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, May 3, 1810. She came to this county with her parents in 1831, and settled in Salem Township. They reared a family of seven children, viz., Elizabeth, Mary A., Margaret, David, Jacob, George, and Amanda. Mr. Taylor filled the office of trustee of Dinsmore Township one year. ERASMUS B. TOLAND was born in Berkeley County, Virginia, September 29, 1808. He is a son of Andrew and Rachel (Montgomery) Toland. When he had attained the age of thirteen years, or in 1821, he moved with his parents to Morgan County, Virginia, where, on the 9th of April, 1829, he married Miss Sarah A., daughter of John Johnson, of Morgan County, where she was born January 25, 1809. Mr. and Mrs. Toland came to Ohio in October, 1829, and located in Miami County, where they remained about four years, or until October, 1833, when they came to this county, purchased eighty acres of land in the south half of section 20, Dinsmore Township, on which he resided about forty-nine years, and has been a citizen of Dinsmore Township since 1833. His companion died May 13, 1840, leaving him with five small children, three of whom grew to years of maturity, viz., Ann M., John W., and Nancy C. John W. died at Memphis, Tennessee, while serving in the late war. Nancy C. died in May, 1878. Ann M. is now living in Sidney. On the 10th of December, 1840, Mr. Toland married Nancy Sheets, of Miami County, where she was born September 23, 1819, by whom he reared seven children, Robert M., Alfred E., Susannah, George B., James N., Charles C. and Martha, all of whom are yet living. Alfred E. and Robert M. served in the war of 1861. Mrs. Toland departed this life April 28, 1856. On the 11th of October, 1857, Mr. Toland married for his third wife Mary Hams, then of Dinsmore Township, daughter of Thomas and Mercy hams. Miss Iiams was born in Washington County, Pa., December 11, 1811. She came to Shelby County with her parents in 1835, and located in Dinsmore Township. ADAM YOUNG, son of Philip and Nancy Young, was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, April 1, 1820. He came to Shelby County with his father, and located in Franklin Township in 1830, where he grew to manhood on a farm. He has made farming his principal vocation, and now owns a farm of eighty acres in section 26, Dinsmore Township, on which he has resided since 1854. March 11, 1841, he married Miss Mary Noland, daughter of Wesley and Martha Noland. Miss Noland was born in Adams County, Ohio, April 25, 1822, and came to Shelby County with her parents in 1839. By this union he reared a family of seven children, viz., Philip W., Keziah A., John R., William R. H., Eliza, Druzilla C., and Martha O. Keziah A. is now dead. JOHN M. FRIDLEY, son of George and Eliza Fridley, was born in Franklin Township, Shelby County, March 31, 1835, where he passed his minority days. He has made farming his vocation, and now owns a good farm in section 24, Dinsmore Township, on which he has resided since 1863. December 16, 1856, he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John and Margaret Taylor, who was born in Dinsmore Township, this county, September 3, 1836. By this union he has ten children, three sons and seven daughters. WILLIAM H. ABBOTT was born in Northampton County, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1818. He is a son of William and Catharine Abbott, who emigrated to Ohio in 1828, and located in Fairfield County, remained four years, or until 1832, when they came to Shelby County, and located iu Franklin Township. William H. Abbott, subject of this sketch, came to this county with his parents in 1832, and has since been a citizen of the county. On the 16th of August, 1836, he married Miss Susannah, daughter of Daniel and Susannah Woodring, then of this county, but a native of Fairfield, Ohio, where she was born December 15, 1815. Mr. and Mrs. Abbott came to Dinsmore Township in November, 1836, and settled on the farm in section 6, on which they have since resided. He has made farming his vocation, and now owns a good farm of 162 acres, on which he has conducted the business of farming with success. He reared a family of six children, viz., Catharine, Sarah A., Daniel W., Eli, Mary J., and Margaret, one of whom is now dead, viz., Mary J. His two sons, Daniel W. and Eli, served in the war of 1861. ELI ABBOTT was born in Dinsmore Township, Shelby County, on the 30th of July, 1844. He is a son of William H. and Susannah Abbott. He was educated in the common schools of Dinsmore Township; also attended normal school at Sidney. In the fall of 1864, he began teaching school in Auglaize County, taught three months, or until February 13, 1865, when he enlisted in Company D, 192d 0. V. I., and served until some time after the close of the war. He was discharged from the service September 7, 1865, and then returned to his home in Dinsmore Township. On the 26th of October, 1865, he married Miss Charity, daughter of George and Catharine Turner, who was born in Dinsmore Township, this county, August 21, 1843. Mr. and Mrs. Abbott settled on the farm in section 6, Dinsmore Township, on which they have since resided. They have a family of four children, three sons and one daughter. In the fall of 1868 he again began teaching, which he followed as his vocation about four months each winter, and conducted his farm during the summer months, until 1880, when he retired from teaching, and has since given all of his time to farming, which he has conducted successfully, and now owns a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in section 6, Dinsmore Township. SAMUEL F. BOYER, deceased, was born in Pennsylvania, February 12, 1815. He was a son of Samuel and Christina Boyer, who came to Ohio and located in Fairfield County, remained until in 1833, when they came to Shelby County and settled on the farm now owned by J. J. Schilling in Franklin Township, on which they remained until 1847, when they moved to Dinsmore Township, and located on the farm now owned by George Fogt, Sr., one mile south of Botkins, where they passed the remainder of their days. Mr. Boyer died in 1861. His companion departed this life November 20, 1867. They reared a family of ten children, viz., Elizabeth, Daniel, Lucinda, Samuel F., Joseph, Mary, George, Christina, William, and Savina. Only four of the above named children are now living, viz., Elizabeth, Mary, William, and Savina. Samuel F. Boyer, subject of this sketch, came to Shelby County with his parents as above stated. He made farming his principal avocation through life, which he conducted with success, and was considered one among the leading farmers of Dinsmore Township. At the time of his death he owned five farms in Dinsmore Township; in all there were three hundred and ninety acres of good land. On the 14th of September, 1842, he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Jesse. W. and Sarah Veach. Miss Veach was born in Shenandoah County, Virginia, July 15, 1822. She came to Shelby County with her parents in 1832, and settled on the farm now owned by Christian Simmers, three-quarters of a mile south of Anna, in Franklin Township, where Mr. Veach died January 22, 1853. Mrs. Veach is still living at the advanced age of eighty-four years, and is now making her home with her daughter, Elizabeth Boyer, in Dinsmore Township. Mr. and Mrs. Boyer settled on the farm now owned and occupied by his widow, which is the west half of the northeast quarter of section 9, Dinsmore Township, on which Mr. Boyer died May 14, 1878, leaving a wife and ten children, viz., Sarah J., George W., Harriett E., Christina, Samuel F., William H., Joseph H., Mary F., James E., and Anna D., and many friends to mourn the loss of a kind husband, an indulgent parent, and a good citizen. GEORGE W. BOYER, eldest son of Samuel F. and Elizabeth Boyer, was born in Dinsmore Township April 24, 1846. He enlisted in Company F, 20th 0. V. I., in October, 1861 ; was actively engaged in the battles of Fort Donaldson, Shiloh, Champion Hills, and Atlanta ; also several other minor engagements not here mentioned. In the fail of 1863 he re-enlisted as a veteran in the same company and regiment, and served until after the close of the war in 1865. He returned to his home in June, 1865. In February; 1868, he married Miss Nancy Blue, daughter of James and Sarah Blue, born in Franklin Township, this county, April 28, 1846. By this union he has five children, three sons and two daughters. He makes farming his vocation, and now owns a farm in section 3, Dinsmore Township, on which he now resides. EBER F. MEDE was born in Greene County, Ohio, on, the 12th of April, 1822. He is a son of Jonathan and Zilpah Mede. His father died when he was yet a small child, leaving him without the paternal care. His mother married Joseph Brunner in 1826. In 1834 he came to Shelby County with his mother and stepfather, and located in the southeast corner of Dinsmore Township, and he has since been a citizen of Dinsmore Township. In 1837 or '8 he attended the first term of, school taught in the toWnship. This school was taught by William D. Johnston, in a log-cabin schoolhouse which stood on the ground now occupied by the Botkins burying-ground. He attended the common school during the winter months until he was nineteen years of age. He then attended school at Sidney one year. In 1842 he began teaching during the winter months, and attending school through the summer, which he followed as his vocation until in 1848, when he turned his attention to farming during the summer months, and teaching four or five months each winter. He continued to make farming and teaching his vocation until 1874, when he retired 226 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. from teaching, and has since been giving all of his time to farming, which he has conducted with success, and now owns a good farm of eighty acres in the northeast quarter of section 20, Dinsmore Township, on which he has resided since the summer of 1848. On the 20th of April, 1848, he married Miss Amanda, daughter of Richard C. and Hannah Dill. Miss Dill was born in Hamilton County, April 26, 1826, and came to this county with her parents in October, 1832, who settled in Dinsmore Township. By this union he reared four children, viz., Franklin L., Richard D., Hannah S., and William. Franklin L. and Hannah S. are now dead. Mr. Mede served as justice of the peace for Dinsmore Township two terms, clerk of the township one term, and trustee one term. He is highly esteemed by all that know him, and is classed as one among Dinsmore's leading citizens. JOHN ZIMPFER was born near Canal Winchester, in Ohio, March 17, 1839. He is a son of Jacob and Julian Zimpfer. In 1840 he was brought to Shelby County by his parents, who settled in Dinsmore Township, one mile and a half east of Anna, where young Zimpfer passed his minority days on a farm. He has made farming his avocation, and now owns a good farm in Dinsmore Township, on which he is now residing and conducting the business of farming. On the 25th of November, 1869, he married. Miss Margaret Beamer, of Franklin Township, this county, daughter of Henry and Susannah Beamer. Mr. and Mrs. Zimpfer settled on the farm in section 16, Dinsmore Township, where they now reside. They have three children, viz., John L., Henry J., and Jennie M. JOHN JACOB ZIMPFER, deceased, was born in Germany, June 20, 1802, where he grew to manhood. On the 13th of September, 1827, he married Miss Julia Dortha Zipper, a native of Germany, where she was born October 30, 1798. Mr. and Mrs. Zimpfer emigrated to America in 1831, landing in New York city, where they remained a short time, and then continued their journey westward until they reached Franklin County, Ohio. There they located near Canal Winchester, remained about nine years, or until in 1840, when they came to Shelby County, purchased and settled on a farm in Dinsmore Township, one mile and a half east of where Anna Station is now located, on which Mr. Zimpfer conducted the business of farming successfully until the time of his death, which occurred November 9, 1862. His companion survived him until February 22, 1881, when she died in Sidney at her daughter's, Mrs. George Kah. They reared a family of nine children, viz., Rachel, Dortha, Caroline, George, Sarah, Jacob, John, Frederick, and Lewis, all of whom are now married, have families, and reside in Shelby County. Mr. Zimpfer served about eight years in the army of his native country. GEORGE REYNOLDS, Retired Farmer; P. O. Montra. Mr. Reynolds is a son of William and Mary Reynolds. He was born in Columbia County, N. Y., April 16, 1812, where his minority days were passed on a farm. Oct. 19, 1836, he married Miss Rebecca, daughter of Amos and Martha Larkin, of Saratoga County, N. Y. In May, 1838, Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds came to Ohio and located in Sidney. In Sept. 1838, he in company with his brother-in-law, Henry Larkin, purchased of James B. McKinney two hundred and forty acres of land in the north half of section 24, Dinsmore Township, on which he made some improvements, erected a cabin, and in November, 1841, he moved on his land, where he has since resided. In 1850' he purchased his partner's interest in the farm, and now is the owner of the entire farm, which ranks second to none in Dinsmorc Township. About 180 acres of the land are now under cultivation, with a good frame house and a large barn, erected on the farm, which is the result of Mr. R.'s own hard labor and energy, which classed him among the best farmers in the township. His companion died Oct. 31, 1879. PETER GERBER, deceased, was born in Switzerland Dec. 4, 1803, where he passed his minority days. He was a carpenter by trade, which he followed as his vocation for several years. When he had attained the age of twenty-five years, he went to Holland, where he enlisted in the standing army, in which he remained five years, when he emigrated to America and located in Miamisburg, Montgomery County, O., where he married Miss Sarah Freemore, then of Miamisburg, but a native of Pennsylvania, where she was born Aug. 30, 1794. Mr. and Mrs. Gerber settled in Montgomery County, remained until in the fall of 1836, when they came to Shelby County, entered, made improvements, and settled on the N. E. quarter of section 23, Dinsmore Township, on which Mr. Gerber died Oct. 9, 1874. His companion is still surviving him, and is now residing on the old home farm with her son, John C. Gerber. They reared a family of three children, viz., Samuel, John C., and Lucinda. John C. Gerber, second son of Peter Gerber, was born in Dinsmore Township, this county, Oct. 7, 1837. He has made farming his vocation, and now owns the old home farm and several other farms in Dinsmore Township. He is considered one of the leading farmers in the township. Feb. 15, 1856, he married Miss Catharine Smith, by whom he has six children, three sons and three daughters. JOHN W. FRIDLEY, son of Lewis and Susannah Fridley, was born in Pickaway County, 0., Feb. 14, 1822, where his boyhood days were spent on a farm. In the spring of 1847 he came to Shelby County and made his home with his brother George Fridlcy, in Franklin Township. About three years prior to his coming to this county, or in 1844, he purchased the S. E. quarter of section 23, Dinsmore Township. During the summer of 1847 he erected a dwelling on his land, and made some other improvements. October 10, 1847, he married Miss Martha J., daughter of Adam and Sarah Young. Miss Young was born in Pickaway County, O., Sept. 8, 1824, and came to this county with her parents in 1830 or '31. Mr. and Mrs. Fridley settled on his land in Dinsmore Township, on which they have since resided. They reared a family of five children, viz., Adam, Sarah L., Jason B. F., John W. A., and Eliza L. Mr. Fridley has made farming his principal. vocation, and now owns a good farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he is conducting with success. JOHN FALER, Retired Farmer. Mr. Faler was born in Lebanon County, Pa., Jan. 14, 1807. When he had attained the age of sixteen years, or in 1823, he came with his parents, George and Eva Faler, to Ohio, and located in Perry County. In 1830 he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Daniel and Susannah Berket, of Perry County, where she was born in July, 1812. In June, 1836, Mr. and Mrs. Faler came to Shelby County, purchased, made improvements, and settled on the east half of the N. W. quarter of section 27, Dinsmore Township, on which he has since resided. His companion died March 10, 1879. He reared a family of seven children : Christopher, George, John, Susannah, Mary, Elizabeth, and Catharine. John Paler died Nov. 27, 1874. PHILIP BRIDEWEESER, son of Philip and Dorothy Brideweeser, was born in Dinsmore Township, this county, Feb. 19, 1843. On the 17th of March, 1867, he married Miss Mary, daughter of Christian and Mary Fogt, of Franklin Township, where she was born March 17, 1837. Mr. and Mrs. B. settled on eighty acres of land in section 21, Dinsmore Township, on which they lived until 1874, when he traded his farm in section 21 for the farm in section 28, same township, on which he moved his family and has since resided. His companion died Feb. 12, 1879, leaving him with a family of six children, five of whom are now living, viz., Sophia C., Mary A. D., Christopher George E., and Joseph V. Mr. B. has made farming his principal avocation, which he has conducted with success. JOHN B. FOGT, son of Christian E. and Mary Fogt, was born in Franklin Township, this county, April 30, 1842. He received a common school education. He has made farming his principal vocation, and now owns a good farm of one hundred acres in Dinsmore Township. In 1879 he invented the Hay Rake, known as the Automatic Sulky Rake (or self-dumping rake). He received the patent on his invention Feb. 24, 1880 since that time a number of the rakes have been manufactured by The Sidney Agricultural Works and sold to farmers in different parts of Shelby and adjoining counties, which is giving entire satisfaction to the parties using them. Jan. 5, 1865, he married Miss Harriet, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Ragan, born May 6, 1849. Mr. and Mrs. Fogt settled on a farm in Dinsmore Township, and have since been citizens of the township. In 1876 he purchased a farm in section 29, on which they have since resided. They have six children—two sons and four daughters. CHRISTIAN E. FOGT, deceased, was born in Baden, Germany, Dec. 14, 1809. He emigrated to America in 1833, and located in Shelby County, 0. On the 23d of Dec. 1839, he married Miss Mary Boyer, then of Shelby County, but a native of Berks County, Pa., where she was born Dec. 14, 1821. Mr. and Mrs. Fogt settled on the farm in section 34, Franklin Township, now owned and occupied by their son, C. Fogt, Jr., on which they lived until the spring of 1881, when they moved to Anna, where he died March 18, 1882. They reared a family of seven children, viz., Christina A., John B., Lucinda, George W., Mary A., Christian E., and Samuel F., all of whom are now living except Mary A., who died in February, 1879. SAMUEL FLESHER was born in Hanover County, Virginia, December 21, 1823, where he passed his minority days. He is a son of John and Mary Fleshier. He is a millwright and house-carpenter by trade, which, in connection with farming, has been his avocation. In 1870 he retired from his trade, and has since given his attention to farming, which he has conducted with HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 227 success, and now owns a good farm in Dinsmore Township. On the 24th of September, 1864, he enlisted in Company H, 29th O. V. V. I., 2d division. 20th Army Corps. He was with Sherman on his march to the sea. He was discharged at Washington, D. C., June 6, 1865, and returned to his home. In 1847 he came to Shelby County, and made his home with Daniel Flesher in Dinsmore Township. January 20, 1850, he married Miss Delila Slagle, then of Champaign County, but a native of Virginia, where she was 'born March 18, 1827. Mr. and Mrs. Flesher settled on the east half of the southwest quarter of section 57, Dinsmore TownShip, remained three years, when they moved to Champaign County, Ohio remained three years, moved to Logan County, but 1857 again found them located in Dinsmore Township, this county, where they lived until 1868, when they moved back to Logan County, remained two years, when they returned to this county, and settled in Dinsmore Township, where he has since resided. His companion departed this life June 18, 1881. He reared one child, viz., Elizabeth, now Mrs. Wilson Dill, who resides in Dinsmore Township, with whom Mr. Flesher is now making his home. BALSER, HAGELBERGER, Retired Farmer, P. O. Anna. Mr. Hagelberger was born in France April 13, 1827. He is a son of Philip J. and Julian Hagelberger, who were natives of France. In the fall of 1833, they emigrated with their family to America, landing in New York City, remained about six weeks, when they came to Shelby County, Ohio, and settled on 240 acres of land in section 8, Dinsmore Township, on which they spent the remainder of their days. Philip J. Hagelberger died in June, 1837, aged fifty-four years. His companion survived him until September, 1847, aged sixty-four years, when hcr spirit took its flight. They, reared a family of five children, viz., Catharine, Philip, Peter, Julian, and Balser. Peter and Balser are the only ones of the family that are now living. Balser Hagelberger, subject of this sketch, came to America in 1833, and settled in Dinsmore Township, where he spent his minority days on the farm with his parents. In October, 1854, he married Miss Frederica Fogt, daughter of George and Julian Fogt. Miss Fogt was born in Baden, Germany, March 4, 1834, and came to America with her parents in 1844, and located in Franklin Township, Shelby County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Hagelberger settled on a farm in section 8, Dinsmore Township, where they remained and followed farming until January, 1882, when they left their farm, moved to Anna, and are now living a retired life. They reared a family of six children, viz., Julian, George, Jacob, Samuel, William, and Sophia. PETER HAGELBERGER, on of Philip J. and Julian Hagelberger, was born in France June 18, 1820' He emigrated to America with his parents in the autumn of 1833, and located in Dinsmore Township, Sheihy County, on the farm in section 8, on which he has since resided, making farming his principal avocation. He now owns 287 acres of good land. On the 10th of October, 1849, he married Miss Caroline Kah, daughter of Christian and Julia Kah, then of Sheihy County, but a native of Baden, Germany, where she was born September 8, 1828, and came to America with her father in 1848. By this union they reared a family of six children, viz., Julian, Caroline, Mary, Christopher, Phebe, and Louisa. DR. P. R. CLINEHENS, son of George and Eve Clinehens, was born in Dinsmore Township, this county, February 14, 1855. He received a common school education ; also attended the union school at Sidney one year, and then three years at Lebanon, Ohio. In 1877 he began the study of medicine under the tutorage of Dr. Le Fevre, of Anna. He attended lectures at Cincinnati, and graduated in the class of 1880, at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery. In March, 1881, he located at Botkins, where he has since been engaged in the practice of medicine. March 30, 1879, he married Miss Lou E. Weatherhead, of Miami County, Ohio, where she was born December 15, 1862, by whom he has one child, viz., Rolla H. WILLIAM B. FLESHER, deceased, was born in Greene County, Ohio, July 10, 1843. He was a son of Daniel and Elizabeth Flesher, who came to Shelby County in 1847, and settled on the east half of the southwest quarter of section 27, where they passed the remainder of their days. Mrs. Flesher died September 28, 1856. Mr. Flesher died September 15, 1856. William B. Flesher, subject of this sketch, came with his parents to Dinsmore Township, this county, in 1847. On the 31st of July, 1862, he enlisted in Company C, 99th 0. V. I., served his country faithfully until after the close of the war, and was honorably discharged from the service May 18, 1865. On the 1st of January, 1866, he married Miss Caroline, daughter of Lewis and Sarah Kah. Mr. and Mrs. William B. Fleshier settled on his father's home farm, remained about two years, when he purchased and moved on the farm in section 21, Dinsmore Township, on which he died April 1, 1877, leaving his companion with three small children, viz., Ida M. Lula S., and Clora, and many friends to mourn the loss of a kind husband, and, an indulgent father, and a good citizen. BENJAMIN GOOD was born near Reading, Pennsylvania, October 11, 1818. When he had attained the age of six years, or in 1824, his parents, Philip and Elizabeth Good, moved to Virginia, and located thirteen miles north of Richmond, where they remained until August, 1832, when they moved to Ohio, stopped in Greene County one year, and in August, 1833, they came to Shelby County, entered, and settled on the east half of the southwest quarter of section 27, Dinsmore Township, on which they lived until 1823, when they moved to Wabash, Indiana, where they passed the remainder of their days. Benjamin Good, subject of this sketch, came to Shelby County with his parents in 1833, and has since been a citizen of the township. On the 3d of October, 1847, he married Miss Sarah, daughter of John and Mary M. Munch. Miss Munch was born in Greene County, Ohio, December 13, 1.824, and came to Shelby County with her parents in 1832. Mr. and Mrs. Good settled on the north half of the northwest quarter of section 21, on which lic has since resided. They have a family of six children, viz., John M., William H., Mary M., Nancy J., Benjamin F., and Samuel E. Mr. Good has made farming his business, and now owns a farm of eighty acres. EWALT FEY, Retired Farmer, was born in Germany April 27, 1813. He is a son of Henry and Margaret Fey. He is a stonemason by trade, which, in connection with farming, has been his business through life. In 1838 he married Miss Anna C. Aberhardt, of Germany, born September 25, 1803. Mr. and Mrs. Fey remained in their native country until in 1847, when they, with two children emigrated to America and located in Buffalo, N. Y., remaining until 1848, when they came to Shelby County, Ohio, and settled in Dinsmore Township. Since his settlement in this township he has given the greater part of his time to farming, which he has conducted with success, and now owns a good farm of 140 acres, in section 21, on which he has resided since March 29, 1866. His companion died December 13,1876. He reared a family of two children, viz., Henry and Christian. He served two years in the German army. Henry Fey was born in Germany, October 11, 1839. He came to America with his parents in 1847. On the 1st of June, 1865, he married Miss Adaline Bohlender, then of Dayton, Ohio, but a native of Germany, where she was born November 25, 1840. Mr. and Mrs. Fey settled on the home farm with his father, where they have since resided. They have three children, Anna M., Elizabeth, and. Sophia. GEORGE E. WIFORD was born in Greene County, Ohio, January 23, 1824. He is a son of Jacob and Catharine Wiford, who came to Shelby County in 1833, entered, and settled on one hundred and sixty acres of land in the south half of section 9, Dinsmore Township, on which Jacob Wiford died October 12, 1880. George E. Wiford, subject of this sketch, came to Shelby County with his parents in 1833, and has since been a resident of Dinsmore Township. On the 21st of January, 1847, he married Miss Mary A., daughter of Samuel and Mary Blakeley, born April 8, 1829. Mr. and Mrs. Wiford settled on a part of his father's home farm, where they have since resided. They have nine children now living, viz., Anthony J., Martha J., Samuel J., Sarah C., Elizabeth M., Harry H., Nancy M., George A., and Harriet A. Mr. Wiford has made farming his business. JOHN C. LINTON, son of James H. and Anna E. Linton, was born in Logan County, Ohio, July 12, 1851. When at the age of fourteen years, he began working in a saw-mill at Belle Centre, Logan County, for Wm. H. Young, with whom he remained several years, and has since been engaged in the manufacturing of, and dealing in all kinds of hard wood lumber, which business he has made a success. In 1874, he, in company with L. Davis, came to Shelby County and erected the steam saw-mill known as the Linton mills, which he has since been operating. The mill is located in Dinsmore Township, two miles south of Botkins. November 4, 1872, he married Miss Catharine, daughter of Michael and Mary O'Donnell, then of Franklin County, Ohio, but a native of New York State, where she was born October 25,1856. By this union he has two children, viz., Ida M. and Emma E. PHILIP METZ, Farmer ; P. O., Montra. Mr. Metz was born in France November 2, 1824. He is a son of Jacob and Catharine Metz. He emigrated to America in 1840 with his father's family, and located in Stark County, Ohio, where he remained until in the fall of 1848, when he came to Shelby County, entered the west half of the northwest quarter of section 13, and a few weeks later he pur- 228 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. chased the east half of the northeast quarter of section 14, Dinsmore Township, on which he made improvements, and has since resided. He has made farming his business through life, and now owns a good farm of 240 acres of land in one body ; also, other farms not joining his home farm. On the 12th of April, 1852, he married Miss Catharine, daughter of Christian and Elizabeth Elsass, then of Auglaize County, Ohio, but a native of France, where she was born September 29, 1832, and came to America with her parents in 1834. They have a family of nine children, viz., Jacob, Mary C., Christian, George, Philip, Caroline, William, Michael, and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Metz are members of the Lutheran Ch u rob. WILLIAM P. DAVIS was born in Clarke County, Ohio, November 3, 1819. He is a son of Zebe S. and Sarah Davis. In the autumn of 1847 he went to Anderson, Indiana, where, on the 1st of November, 1847, he married Miss Matilda A., daughter of Ichabod and Sarah Davis. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Davis came to Shelby County and located in Jackson Township, remained a few weeks, then moved to Clarke County, Ohio, where they remained until May, 1856, when they moved to Illinois and located in McLain County, where his companion died March 25, 1857, leaving him with three small children, viz., Franklin R., Horace W., and Ira W., without thc maternal care. Shortly after the death of his companion he returned with his children to Ohio, and located in "Champaign County, where he remained for several months, or until sonic time in 1858, when he again came to Shelby County, and settled on his land in section 13, Dinsmore Township, which he had purchased some years prior. In September, 1861, he enlisted in the company known as the Benton cadets, and served about four months, or until the disorganization of the company, when he returned to his home in Sheihy County. In 1862 he married Miss Magdalena Heintz, then of Shelby County, but a native of France. They have a family of ten children, seven sons and three daughters. He has made farming his principal business, and now owns a good farm in Dinsmore Township, which he is conducting with success. He was also engaged in the manufacture of tile in connection with farming about eight or nine years. JOHN J. KRAFT, deceased, son of Michael Kraft, was born in Germany October 1, 1802. He emigrated to America in 1832, and located in Medina County, Ohio, where on the 1st of January, 1833, he married Miss Catharine, daughter of Jacob and Christina Frank. Miss Frank was born in Germany, December '17, 1809, and came to America with her parents in 1831. Mr. and Mrs. Kraft settled in Medina County, remained until 1835, when they moved to Crawford County, Ohio, remained five years, or until in 1835, when they moved to Crawford County, Ohio, remained five years, when they came to Shelby County, and settled on the banks of the Miami River, about half way between Sidney and Port Jefferson. Here they remained one year, when they came to Dinsmore Township, purchased and moved on forty acres of land in the northeast quarter of section 27, remained until in December, 1853, when he sold his land in section 27, purchased, made improvements, and moved on the northeast quarter of section 19, same township, on which he passed the re mainder of his days. He died September 12, 1878. His widow is living on the home farm with her son, Win. R. Kraft: They reared a family of ten children, viz., Rachel, John, Caroline, Mary, Jacob, Catharine, Christopher, Elizabeth E., Sarah J., and William R., two of whom are now dead, Christopher and Mary. Christopher died in Kentucky, while serving in the war of 1861. John Kraft served near three years in the war of 1861. WILLIAM R. KRAFT, son of John J. and Catharine Kraft, was born on the farm where he now resides, in seetion 19, Dinsmore Township, this county, July 2, 1854. He has made farming his vocation, and now owns a farm of eighty acres of land, a part of which is the home farm, on which he is now living. On the 12th of September, 1875, he married Miss Hannah E., daughter of John and Lydia Kleinhans, who was born in Dinsmore Township, July 25, 1854, by whom he has three children, John H., Minnie F., and George L. GEORGE WENGER, Farmer ; P. O., Dinsmore. Mr. Wenger is a son of George and Mary M. Wenger. He was born in Germany, January 18, 1829. He immigrated to America in May, 1849, and located in Franklin County, Ohio, where, in August, 1855, he married Miss Caroline Burch, a native of Franklin County, Ohio, born in November, 1832. Mr. and Mrs. Wenger moved to Darke County, Ohio, in 1856, where they remained until in April, 1865, when they came to Shelby County, purchased, and moved on the farm in section 18, Dinsmore Township, on which he has since resided. His companion died October 6, 1874, leaving him with four small children, viz., Louisa C., Mary S., Caroline C., and John F. On the 28th of May, 1876, he married Miss Mary Clinehens, who was born in Richmond, Indiana; February '23, 1840, and came to Shelby County with her parents, George and Eve Clinehens, in 1842. Mr. Wenger has made farming his vocation, and now owns a farM of four hundred acres in section 18, Dinsmore. Township. JOHN WICAL was born in Greene County, Ohio, February 13, 1828.. He is a son of George and Hester Wical. He has made farming his principal avocation,.. and now owns a farm of one hundred and eighty acres of land in Dinsmore. Township, on which he is now residing. In March, 1853, he married Miss Elizabeth J., daughter of John and Elizabeth Wade. Miss Wade was born in Darke County, Ohio, January 28, 1835. Mr. and Mrs. Wical remained in Greene County until in the autumn of 1854, when they moved to Mercer County, Ohio, where they lived until in April, 1861, when they came to Sheihy County, purchased a farm in Dinsmore Township, on which they are now residing. They have a family of nine children, seven sons and two daughters. On the 1st of October, 1862, Mr. Wical enlisted in Company F, 20th 0. V: I. He was actively engaged in the battles of Raymond, Mississippi ; Jackson, Mississippi; Champion Hills, Mississippi; Black River; the siege of Vicksburg; and a number of other minor engagements. He was honorably discharged June 27, 1865. WILLIAM H. ELLIS, son of William W. and Catharine Ellis, was born in Dinsmore TOwnship, this county, November 5,1834. On the 31st of May, 1857, he married Miss Harriet C. Munford, daughter of John and Jane Munford. Miss Munford was born in Adams County, Ky., July 4, 1837, and came to Dinsmore Township with her parents in 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Ellis settled on his father's home farm in section 28, Dinsmore Township, on which they lived until in 1873, when they moved on a farm in Franklin Township, one mile south of Anna, remaining on this farm until April 1, 1879, when they returned to Dinsmore Township, and moved on the farm in section 21 on which they have since resided. They have three children, viz., Fletcher, Harry, and Hattie. Mr. Ellis has made farming his principal vocation. His father, William W. Ellis, came to Dinsmore Township with wife and two children in 1834, and settled on a part of the northeast quarter of section 28, on which he lived until in 1874, when he moved on a farm in section 21, same township, now occupied by his son, W. H. Ellis, remained until in the spring of 1879, when he moved out of the township and now resides in Port Jefferson, Shelby County. PHILIP SHEETS, Sr., was born in Baden, Germany, on the 27th of October, 1817. He immigrated to America in 1835 or '36, and after visiting New York City, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and St. Louis, he continued to journey until he reached New Orleans, where he located for a few years. In 1843 he entered the Texan army, under the command of General Houston, and served one year, when he was discharged from the service and returned to his home in !New Orleans; remained until in 1846, when he entered the Mexican war in the United States Army, and served about two and One half years in a company of mounted riflemen, and, was discharged at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, some time during the latter part of 1848. On the 12th of April, 1849, he married Miss :Mary Manger, of St. Louis, Mo., and located in Texas. In the latter part of 1849 he enlisted in the 2d Dragoons, under the command of Colonel Hardy, and served five years, or until in 1854, when he was discharged from the service. He then enlisted in a company known as the Texan Rangers, and served one year, or until in 1856, when he again received an honorable discharge. Soon after leaving the Rangers he enlisted in the 5th -United States Cavalry, and served eight years, or until in 1864, when he was discharged on account of general disability. He remained out of the army but a few months, or until in the fall of 1864, when he re-enlisted as a veteran in the 17th 0. V. I., and served until after the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged from the service of the United States. He now holds in his possession a certificate of merit for honors acquired and bravery manifested in the battle of Belen Gate, Mexico, on the 13th of September,1847, under the command of W. F. Sanderson, signed by James K. Polk, President of the United States. In 1861, or at the breaking out of the late war, hc received a furlough from his regiment, moved his family from Texas to .Ohio, and located them in Botkins, Shelby County, where they have since rcsided. At the close of his army life in 1865, which was near twenty years of duration, he returned to his family in Botkins, where he has since been engaged in the hotel keeping and the saloon business. At this writing he is conducting the saloon business. He has a family of six. children, viz., Philip W., William, Joseph, Laura, Sarah and Mary (twins). PHILIP SHEETS, Jr., son of Philip and Mary Sheets, was born in Texas December 16, 1850. He came to Sheihy County with his parents in 1861, and located in Botkins. He received a common-school education ; also attended the: HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 229 Miami Commercial College, at Dayton, Ohio. In 1870 he engaged as a clerk in the dry goods store of H. Smith & Co., of Botkins. In 1871 he purchased a half interest in the store. The firm name then became Smith and Sheets, and remained as such one year, when he sold his share of the store to a Mr. Bushey, and moved to Berne, Adams County, Ind., where he engaged in the mercantile business, which he conducted about eight years. In 1879 he sold Iii stock of goods at Berne, and returned to his old home in Botkins, where he has since been conducting the business of dealing in general merchandise with success; keeping his storeroom filled to overflowing with everything in his line. He also owns the warehouse known as the People's' Elevator, where he is conducting the business of dealing in all kinds of grain and seeds, in connection with his dry goods trade. In 1871 he married Miss Susie Thurman, of Auglaize County, Ohio, by whom he had two children, viz., Philip and :Elmer. His companion died .June 10, 1876. In 1879 he married Miss Catharine Thurman, of Auglaize County, Ohio. SAMUEL BRACKNEY was born in Greene County, Ohio, January 29, 1825. He is a son of Reuben and Sarah Brackney. In 1840 he 'moved with his parents to Auglaize County, Ohio, and located on a farm two miles east of St. Johns. March 14, 1847, he married Miss Mercy Munch, daughter of John and Mary M. Munch, who was born in Greene County, Ohio, November 9, 1822, and came to Shelby County with her parents in 1832, and settled in Dinsmore Township, near where Anna is now located. Mr. and Mrs. Brackney settled on a farm near St. Johns and remained about two years. In March, 1849, they came to Shelby County and settled on a part of section 16, Dinsmore Township, remaining until in the autumn of 1854, when they moved on a 'farm in section 15, same. township. In 1869 he purchased a farm of 78 acres in the northwest quarter of section 26; Dinsmore Township, on which he moved his family and has since resided. He reared a family- of five children, Mary A., Sarah, Nancy J., John, and Catharine. He has made farming his principal avocation through life. His father, Reuben Brackney, served about six months in the war' f 1812, and received a land warrant from the Government in 1848, calling for one hundred and sixty acres of land. He was born in Virginia, December 7, 1787. He married Miss Sarah Ary in 1813. He entered the army in March, 1814, and served until the close of the war. In 1816 he, with his family,came to Ohio and located in Greene County, remaining until in 1839, when they moved to the then south 'part of Allen, but now Auglaize County.. His companion died November 9, 1847. He died February 20, 1867. He was often heard to say that he hoped to live to see the Rebellion closed. His wish was granted. ROBERT HASTING was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., July 1, 1846. He is a son of Robert and Ellen Hasting. When he had attained the age of fourteen years he moved to Ohio, and' located in Cincinnati, where he made his home with his uncle, who resided in that place. On the 15th of January, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, 2d U. S. Artillery, and served his country faithfully until the expiration of his term of enlistment, which ended January 15, 1865, when he was honorably discharged from the service of the United States, at Washington, D. C. He was actively engaged in the following named battles : the siege of Yorktown, Va., from April 19 to May 4, 1862 Golden Farm, Va., June 27, 1862 Turkey Bend, Va., June 30; Malvin Hill, Va., July 1Bull Run, Va., August 29 and 30; Chantilley, September 1 ; South Mountain, Md., September 14; Antietam, Md., September 16 and 17; Fredericksburgh, Va., December 11, 12„ 13, and. 14 ; siege of Vicksburg; Mississippi, from June 20 to July 4, 1863; siege of Jackson, Mississippi, from July 4 to the 20th; Campell Station, Tenn., November .16 ; Fort Sanders, at Knoxville, Tenn., November 29, 1863 ; battle of the Wilderness, in 1864 ; and several other minor engagements. In March, 1865, he came to Shelby County and located in Port Jefferson, remaining about one year, when he came to Dinsmore Township, and settled on a farm in section 11, on which he remained until in October, 1874, when he sold his farm and moved to Botkins, where he resided until in 1880, when he purchased and moved on the farm in section 5, one-fourth of a mile west of Botkins, where he is now living. He has made farming, stockdealing, buying notes, and dealing in real estate his avocation, and has accumulated for himself and family a goodly portion of this world's goods. On the 27th of April, 1872, he married Miss Florence, daughter of Isaac and .Nancy Gallimore. By this union he has five children, viz., Oscar W., Albert A., Walter W., Orvil O.; and Arthur S. SIMON SCHMITT was born in Germany August 16, 1839. He immigrated to America with pis parents, John P. and. Anna M. Schmitt in 1855, who located in Auglaize County, Ohio, and remained three years, or until in 1858, when they moved to Shelby County and settled. in Van Buren Township, where John P. Schmitt died in 1864. Simon Schmitt, subject of this sketch, is a carpenter by trade, which he made his vocation until in the fall of 1881, when he purchased and moved on the farm M section 3, Dinsmore Township, and has since been giving his attention to farming. On the. 8th of April, 1869, he married Mrs. Margaret McFarland, née Suber, by whom he has four children, two sons and two daughters. His wife departed this life December 16, 1880. SAMUEL GALLIMORE, deceased, was born in Virginia November 12, 1794. When yet a small boy his parents came to Ohio and located. in Clinton County, where young Gallimore grew to manhood. He married Miss Elizabeth Bragg, then of Clinton County, but a native of East Tennessee, where she was born August 19, 1807, and came to Ohio with her parents when yet a small girl. Mr. and Mrs. Gallimore came to Sheihy County in 1846, and settled on a part of the southwest quarter of section 10, Dinsmore Township, on Which he passed the remainder of his days. He died March 21, 1878. His companion is living on the home farm, at the advanced age of seventy-four years. He reared a. family of nine children, viz., Mark, Isaac A., Rosline, Samuel H., Elisha S., Emily A., John, Elias M., and Margaret, four of whom are now deceased, viz., Isaac A., Rosline, Elisha S., and John. Isaac A. died in the war of 1861, while fighting in defence of hi, country. He died at his post in battle as color bearer, with the old .flag in his hands. MARK GALLIMORE was born in Greene County, Ohio, January 5, 1824. He is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth Gallimore. On the 18th of April, 1844, he married Miss Margaret J. Wilson, of Greene County, Ohio, born September 22, 1827. Mr. and Mrs. Gallimore came to Shelby County in the autumn of 1844, and located in Dinsmore Township. They lived on several different farms until 1854, when he purchased and settled on the farm in section 11, Dinsmore Township, on which he has since resided, and followed farming. His wife died September 20, 1861, leaving a husband and eight children, four sons and four daughters, to mourn the loss of a wife and mother. One of the sons, Lewis C. Gallimore, enlisted in Company G, 6th Regiment of the Veteran Reserve Volunteers. He was wounded in battle, from the effects of which he died April 13, 1870. The other seven children are yet living. On the 1st of January, 1862, Mr. Gallimore married Mrs. Rachel Ogan, nee Clutch, then of Sidney, but a native of Warren County, Ohio, where she was born August 31, 1816. By this union he has one child, viz., Edwin. In August, 1862, Mr. Gallimore enlisted in Company H, 99th V. I., and served about eighteen months, or until April, 1864, when he was discharged from the service on account of disability. ELIAS GIBSON was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, October 12, 1829. He is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth Gibson, who were natives of Pennsylvania, and moved to Ohio in 1837, and settled on the west half of the northwest quarter of section 12, Van Buren Township, on which Mrs. Gibson died in 1848. Mr. Gibson remained on the farm until. 1860, when he moved to Allen County, Indiana, where he departed this life May 30, 1881. He served in the war of 1812. He reared a family of seven children, viz., Joseph, Martin, John, Mary, Elias, Sarah E., and William, all of whom are yet living except Joseph, who died in 1857. Elias Gibson, subject of this sketch, came to Shelby County with his parents in 1837, and settled in Van Buren Township. On the 29th of April, 1850, he married Miss Anna M., daughter of David and Sarah Howell, of Shelby County, born in Perry Township January 2, 1831. By this union he has a family of seven children, six sons and one daughter. In 1866 Mr. Gibson purchased and moved on the farm in section 6, Dinsmore Township, on which he is now residing, and conducting the business of farming with success. LEWIS KAH. It is proper and fitting at this point to speak of one of the founders of Anna—a man who has at all times looked and labored towards the growth of the village, and the improvement of the entire township. This man is Lewis Kah, a type of that German Protestant stock which seeks the elevation of the people through the channels of education and art. It is a stock which once entertaining an opinion, dares stand by that conviction single handed, irrespective of mercenary considerations. Mr. Kah was born in Lichtenau, a village of Baden, September 29,1819. In the spring of 1845 he came to the United States, and, being a musician, readily secured a position with the band of a travelling show. He was thus engaged during the summer, or show season, of seven years, while the winter seasons were passed in teaching cornet bands in different sections of Ohio. In this way he instructed about twenty-five bands in Eastern Ohio alone. During this period, or in 1849, he came to Dinsmore Township, and purchased a piece of land, which he looked upon as a promising investment, as land was then looking upward in value in this section at that time. He did not locate here at this time, but continued his profession of music until 1862, when he entered the 20th Ohio Regiment as a musician. He remained in this capacity about two years, when he withdrew from the arniy, and in 1865 settled on his farm in HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 231 Dinsmore Township. The next year, in company with Therkield Brothers, he erected the first building in the newly laid out town of Anna. This building was a store-room, in which the proprietors conducted the drygoods trade about one year. Mr. Kah then formed a partnership with Messrs. Elliott & Finkenbein, under the firm style of Kah & Elliott, for the purpose of conducting the drygoods and grain business. For this enterprise buildings were erected, as the town was yet new. Late in 1866 William Flesher erected and opened a hotel in Anna, known still as the Anna Hotel, which was purchased by Mr. Kali in 1867. He then, and from time to time afterward, remodelled the building, and managed the hotel business from the year the building was purchased until August, 1882, when he leased the property to Clemens Stuve. The house has ever enjoyed the reputation of being one of the very best village hotels in Western Ohio. Mr. Kah continued in business with Mr. Elliott until 1875, when he sold his interest and withdrew from the firm. In 1873 he had entered into partnership with John Winter, under the style of Kali & Winter; the purpose of the firm being the erection of a factory which should comprise a saw and planing mill. In 1876 Winters withdrew, and left the whole concern in the hands of Kah. He then changed the nature of the enterprise, which became a saw-mill and steam flour mill ; this being the first and only flouring mill in the village. The mill is still owned by Mr. Kali, and operated by his son-in-law, Albert Markland. Such are some of the interests with which Mr. Kah has been identified. More than this, it must be added that he was largely instrumental in securing the location of the D. & M. Railroad station at Anna. In this interest he collected $98, and contributed $55 toward the erection of the little station. Again, he was chiefly instrumental in securing the location of the German Lutheran church at this village, as he, in a few days, collected the sum of $2500 for building purposes. The village and township owe him a debt of gratitude for his labors in behalf of the community. Since his location here he has contributed ih every possible way to the advancement of the best interests of the town. As a musician he has freely taught the youth of the community, for he is a staunch believer in education and art. Since the Columbus convention of 1854, which organized a new state party in Ohio, Mr. Kah has been an ardent Republican. To-day he still believes it the party of popular liberty, civil rights, and living principles. In religious affairs he is devoted to the doctrines and teachings of the Lutheran denomination. Of his family relations it may be said he was married November 18, 1846, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Miss Sarah Ludwig, who was a native of Germany. Their children were named Caroline, who became Mrs. Fletcher, now of Dinsmore Township ; Louisa, now Mrs. George Fogt, of Dinsmore Township ; Sarah, who married Win. Stark, but is now dead ; Julia, now Mrs. Albert Markland, of Anna ; Mary, now Mrs. Moses Ailes, of Botkins ; and Lena, who is still with her parents. Since Mr. Kah leased his hotel he has lived in a somewhat retired way in the village of Anna, his farm, hotel, and mills being all managed by responsible parties. VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP. This is the northwest township in the county. It is bounded on the north by Auglaize County, on the east by Dinsmore and Franklin, on the south by Turtle Creek and McLean, and on the west by McLean Township and Auglaize County. The township contains thirty-six full sections. At its first organization it was much larger than at the present time, which is shown by the Commissioners' record under date of December 1, 1834, at which time the township was granted an organization. We give the record in full. Organization. "At a meeting of the Board of Commissioners held at Sidney, December 1,1834,a petition, signed by sundry persons to the number of seventeen, praying for the setting off of a new township of the following, bounds, viz.: Commencing at the. old Indian boundary line at the southeast corner of McLean Township, thence east with said line to a point so as to take one tier of sections off of the west side of •range 6, thence north to the Allen County line, thence west to the northeast corner of McLean Township, thence south to the place of beginning. The Board being satisfied that legal notice of the presentation of said petition had been given, and that said petition was signed by a majority of the. householders residing within the boundary of said proposed new township, and believing it necessary to erect said new township, they therefore order that said new township, as described and bounded as aforesaid, be set off and known by the name of Van Buren, and the Board do fur-titer order and direct that notice be given (by the advertisement according to law) to the electors of said township to meet at the house of Moses E. Baker, in said township, on the 1st day of January, 1835, for the purpose of electing township officers for the township." Streams. Van Buren is favorably situated for drainage. It is located on the watershed, and has a drainage both north and south. Loramie Creek enters the township nearly central on the east side, and runs in a southwesterly direction, leaving the township near the southwest corner, where it enters the Loramie Reservoir, a portion of the reservoir being in this township. Beside the Loramie, there are several small streams on the north side of the dividing ridge which flow. in a northwesterly direction, and are the principal source of the St. Mary's Rivcr, whose waters enter Lake Erie. Soil. The surface is level and unbroken. The Loramie, its principal stream, is sluggish in its flow along the watershed, which is caused partly by the reservoir damming the water and causing a less rapid flow of the stream. The fertility of the soil is perhaps equal to that of any other part of the county when put under a proper state of cultivation with ample drainage. Near the centre of the township (close to Kettlerville), are some three or four hundred acres of peat or vegetable mould, which, when dry, is as inflammable as charcoal. A more full account of this will be found in the geology of the county. Mr. Kettler, a few years ago, sowed twelve acres of this peat land in rye, from which he cut the following harvest 33 bushels per acre. The rye bcing very ripe when harvested, much of it was shelled and scattered over the ground. This scattered seed took root without any cultivation, and made good pasture for his cattle during the fall. The following spring he let it grow, and the next harvest he cut 12 bushels per acre of second crop with one sowing. Early Settlement. The first settlement made within the present limits of this township was probably made in the year 1832. There were several families who located here that year, but who it was that first made their advent we cannot definitely ascertain. A man by the name of Cory is known to have been here; he settled on land owned by Judge Marshall near Molike; he only remained on this farm one year, wheh he bought a forty-acre lot, where McCartyville now is located. Andrew McCullum and______ Mulholland also were here the same year. About the same time there were several colored families moved into the neighborhood; among them were Moses Redman, George Goins, Humphry Clinton, and Blake Reynolds. The most of the colored families were located in that part of the township that has since been attached to Dinsmore Township. It is also probable that Elias Spray was here as early as 1832. The following year (1833) there were quite a number of families located in different parts of the township, as follows: Moses E. Baker, Richard Elliott, Mrs. Philip J. Maurer, Adam Paul, Adam Braun, John McCullough, Jackson Traverse, Morris Jackson, Andrew Sanders, Robert Reed, and Henry Van Brarigan. In 1834 Victor Schnelle, Christian Brockhoff, Frederick Abler, Victor Lanfersieck, and ______ Baker. The above were all here prior to the organization of the township, January 1, 1835, or very soon afterward. The first birth of a white child was Charles Maurer, born in the fall of 1833. The first marriage was Allen Lupton and Sarah Rush; married by Moses E. Baker, Esq. The first hewed log house was built at Rumley, by Col. Evans, for a store and dwelling. The first brick house, was erected by Joel Goins about 1841. He also made the first brick. The first frame house was built by Adam Paul. The first grist mill was a horse mill, owned by Spray & Goins at Rumley. The first saw-mill was owned by R. Elliott. The first school-house was on the land of George Speaker. There are six churches in the township: One Methodist Episcopal. two German Lutheran, one Evangelical, one Catholic, and one colored church. There are three small villages, viz., Kettlerville, McCartyville, and Rumley. In an early day there were two other small villages (Pulaski and Molike), but they have long since passed away, and are now only known by name. KETTLERVILLE was laid out and platted by Christopher Kettler in 1873. The original plat consisted of seven lots. Since that time Christopher and William Kettler have added to the village forty-five lots. The first store in the village was kept by C. F. Quillhorst. The village at the present time contains nine dwellings, two stores and groceries by Buetler & Quillhorst, one blacksmith shop, one shoe shop, one steam saw-mill, one church (German Lutheran), one town house, one grange hall, and one physician, W. Turner, M.D. The German Evangelical Lutheran, Church of Kettlerville was organized in the spring of 1882. The following summer they built a neat frame church, sixty by thirty-four feet, at a cost of 232 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. $3500. The society at its organization consisted' of thirty-five members. The pastor is the Rev. A. Merkley. The trustees are Charles Stein, Louis Schwabroe, and William Egbert. Van Buren Grange No. 269 was organized in 1875, and continued its organization about four years, when it ceased to work until the winter of 1883, when it was reorganized under its original number and charter. The present officers are Henry Wenker, master; John Banning, overseer; Jacob Geib, steward; Julius Kettler, assistant steward; William Robins, lecturer; William Wenker, chaplain ; Charles Stein, gate-keeper; William Kettler, secretary; William Baker, treasurer. RUMLEY. This town is laid out in the east half of southeast quarter of,section 23, town. 7 south, range 5 east, and was surveyed May 19, 1837, for Amos Evans, the proprietor. Explanatory notes: Lots are four by eight rods; Main and Market, High and Cross streets are each four rods wide; Water Street three rods wide; East and West Lanes each two rods wide; alleys each one rod wide. Recorded June 14, 1837. PULASKI. Pulaski was surveyed June 22, 1837, and was situated in the east half of the northeast quarter of section 23, town. 7 south, range 5 east. It was laid out for Joseph Cummins and J. S. Updegraff, proprietors. Main Street occupied the Hardin and Wapakoneta State road, and was four rods wide. Chestnut, Walnut, Spruce, and Pine streets were each three rods wide. Water and Greenwood streets were each two rods wide. Alleys for the most part were one rod wide. List of Township Officers. The following are the names of those holding office in the township from 1841 to the present time, with the exception of a few years, the record of which has been lost:- 1841. Trustees, Moses E. Baker, Elias Horner, Richard Elliott. Clerk, Alex. Cordelle. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1842. Trustees, J. Park, Richard Elliott, M. E. Baker. Clerk, L. A. Harman. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1843. Trustees, Richard Elliott, M. W. Jackson, D. P. Williams. Clerk, L. A. Harman. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1844. Trustees, M. W. Jackson, R. Elliott, S. Harshberger. Clerk, L. A. Harman Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1845. Trustees, R. Elliott, S. Harshberger, A. Sanders. Clerk, L. A. Harman. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1847. Trustees, R. Elliott, J. Hillbrant, S. Harshberger. Clerk, A. Sanders. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1848. Trustees, R. Elliott, Robt. Reed, Jos. Hillbrant. Clerk, Samuel Reese. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1850. Trustees, R.. Elliott, A. Sanders, Robt. Reed. Clerk, Samuel Reese. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1851. Trustees, R. Elliott, L. Woodruff, S. Harshberger. Clerk, Samuel Reese. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1852. Trustees, R. Elliott, L. Woodruff, A. Sanders. Clerk, T. Heston. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1853. Trustees, R. Elliott, S. Harshberger, J. Gibson. Clerk, L. Woodruff. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1854. Trustees, R. Elliott, J. Gibson, S. Harshberger. Clerk; David Robins. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1855. Trustees, R. Elliott, Wm. Powell, Wm. M. Baker. Clerk, John Elliott. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1861. Trustees, A. Miller, D. Robins, J. A. Weckuler. Clerk, P. W. Speaker. Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1862. Trustees, R. Elliott, J. A. Weckuler, C. Schnelle. Clerk, - Treasurer, Geo. Speaker. 1863. Trustees, R. Elliott, J. A. Wickuler, C. Sehnelle. Clerk, J. Gipe. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1864. Trustees, F. Pohlmann, C. Schnelle, J. A. Wickuler. Clerk, J. Gipe. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1865. Trustees, T. J. Baker, R. Elliott, H. Ruese. Clerk, S. M. Mc- Cullough. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1866. Trustees, T. J. Baker, H. Ruese, Wm. McVay. Clerk, S. M. McCullough. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1867. Trustees, John Saxton, Wm. McVay, H. Ruese. Clerk, S. M. McCullough. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1868. Trustees, D. Quillhorst, B. Myers, J. Saxton. Clerk, S. W. .McCullough. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1874. Trustees, C. Tiemann, J. Saxton, C. Schnelle. Clerk, W. E. Robins. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1875. Trustees, D. Abbott, Win. Wood., J. Roath. Clerk, C. F. Quillhorst. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1877. Trustees, Wm. Wood, C. Tiemann, H. Roettger. Clerk, C. F. Quillhorst. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1878. Trustees, Wm. Wood, H. Roettger, C. Tiemann. Clerk, C. F. Quillhorst. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1879. Trustees, H. Roettger, C. Tiemann, A. Woodruff. Clerk, C. F. Quillhorst. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1880. Trustees, Wm. Wood, C. Tiemann, Wm. Bloomhorst. Clerk, C. F. Quillhorst. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1881. Trustees, Wm. Wood, Wm. Bloomhorst, C. Tiemann. Clerk, C. F. Quillhorst. Treasurer, Philip Maurer. 1882. Trustees, Wm. Bloomhorst, C. Tiemann, Wm. Wood. Clerk, Julius Kettler. Treasurer, H. Roettger Justices of the Peace. Joseph H. Park, June 24, 1835. Moses E. Baker, June 24, 1835. Moses E. Baker, April 30, 1838. Elias Hamer, April 30, 1838. George Speaker, April 16, 1841 April 11, 1844. Moses E. Baker, April 20, 1847. Michael Quinn, April 17, 1848. Robert Ried, June 24, 1848. Samuel Reese, May 1, 1851. Joseph H. Park, April 17, 1862. George Speaker, April 14, 1853. Wm. Grothaus, April 12, 1859. George Speaker, July 2, 1859. Wm. Grothaus (resigned March 17, 1863), April 22, 1862. George Speaker, April 22, 1862. S. M. McCullough, April 17, 1863. George Speaker, April 14, 1865. S. M. McCullough, April 11, 1866. P. W. Speaker, April 5, 1867. S. M. McCullough, April 12, 1869. P. W. Speaker, April 8, 1870. S. M. McCullough, April 5, 1872. P. W. Speaker, April 11, 1878. S. M. McCullough, April 9, 1875. Harmon Quillhorst, April 20, 1876. Wm. M. Baker, Oct. 19, 1877. Charles Maurer, April 17, 1879, and 1882. Wm. M. Baker, Nov. 10, 1880. BIOGRAPHIES. PHILIP MAURER was born in Germany in the year 1828. He came with his parents to this county in 1833. They first stopped for a short time at Hamilton, Ohio. While located here, his father, Philip J. Maurer, purchased about 1000 acres of land in one body, being partly in this and Auglaize counties. He then brought his family to New Bremen, and left them there while he and his sons erected a cabin on his land. This was the year of the " Cholera epidemic" in New Bremen, which proved fatal to the lives of a number of the citizens of that new village. Mr. Maurer fell a victim to this disease before he moved on to his land. He died November, 1833. The widow, with the family, moved on to the land that same fall. They were among the very first settlers in the township. The subject of this sketch was only five years of age at this time. He never had the advantage of an English education, Dilly receiving about five months of English schooling in his life. In 185'2 he married Miss Doretta Young, who was born in Germany in 1826, and came to the United States in 1849. Mr. and Mrs. Maurer have raised a family of eight children, whose names are as follows : Charles, Elizabeth, Adam, Jacob, Doretta, August, Carolina, and Lewis. Mr. Maurer inherited 137 acres of his father's farm. To this he has added until he now has 360 acres of well improved land, with good buildings, and is one of the leading farmers in the township. He has filled the office of Township Treasurer nineteen years in succession. MOSES E. BAKER, ESQ., was born in Butler County, Ohio, in the year 1804. We can learn nothing of his early life, or that of his ancestors, except that his father was Ephraim Baker, but when or where he was born we do not know. Moses was reared on a farm, and received the common-school education of his day. In 1828 he married Miss Lucretia Jeffras, a daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Reynolds) Jeffras, of Butler County, Ohio. In 1833 he came to Shelby County and entered land in this township, and the same year brought his family. They lived one year on rented land, then moved into his own cabin. They were among the very first settlers in the township, only two or three families having preceded them. He was one of the organizers of the township, the first election being held at his hOuse. He was the first justice of the peace in the township, which office he. held until the time of his death in 1848. Esquire Baker was always a leading spirit in his township. After his death his widow remained on the farm until her family were grown up. She is now living in the village of Anna. They reared a family of six children, viz., William M., Thomas J., Nancy A., Clark J., Mary, and Sarah Jane. Clark J., one of the sons, was in the war of the Rebellion, and died in the service. WILLIAM SETTLER was born in Prussia in 1828. In 1845 he came to the United States and located in New Bremen. Two years later he sent for his parents, who came over. His first employment was laboring on a farm, at five dollars per month, which he followed some three years. He then clerked in a store four years, at the end of which time he bought a stock of goods for himsclf and sold goods about thirteen years. In connection with his HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 233 store he bought and packed pork ; also bought and shipped grain. In 1851 he married Minnie Donnerberg. By this marriage there were three children, viz., Julius, Sophia, and Matilda. In 1865 he sold his store in New Bremen, and bought 400 acres of wild land in Van Buren Township, where Kettlerville is now located. This land he has improved and made one of the fine farms of the township. Having acquired a competence, he has retired from active life, and is enjoying the fruits of his past hard labor. JULIUS KETTLER, a son of the above, was born in New Bremen in 1852. In 1874 he married Mary Wuebbenhorst, a daughter of Henry and Minnie Wuebbenhorst, of .Auglaize County. They reside on the homestead of his father at Kettlerville. They have had born to them three children, Clara M., Mahala E. M., and Amelia S. ALFRED WOODRUFF was born in Cincinnati in 1829, and came to this county in 1843 with his father, who settled in section 36. In 1854 Alfred married Christina Smeltzer, who was born in Gallipolis, Ohio, in 1837, and came here with her parents, Adam and Margaret Smeltzer, in 1853. They have reared six children, named Margaret J., George W., Emily A., Thomas G., Lenora, Paul, and Reuben L. WILLIAM DONELLY, a farmer residing near Kettlerville, was born in Ireland in 1823. In 1861 he came to this township and located in section 2, where he lived three years, then moved to McLean Township, but nine years later returned to Van Buren, where he now owns 130 acres of land in sections 12 and 13. In 1853 he married Ellen, daughter of Patrick and Ellen Hoys, of Bellevue, Ohio. She was born in Ireland in 1827. They have reared two children, named Alice J. Hickey, residing in Newark, Ohio, and Thomas Donelly, of this county. ISAAC COLLINS, a farmer and carpenter, came here with his father, and settled in section 24 in 1837, He was born in Gallia County, Ohio, in 1828. After coming to this township he changed locations several times, at length settling in section 22, where he now resides. In 1854 he was married, and has reared three children, named Maria A., Martha J., and Nancy M. Samuel Wilms, father of the above, died here in 1858, aged seventy-four years. RUDOLF GROTHAUS, a farmer, with post-office at New Bremen, was born in Hanover in 1836, and came to this county with his parents, Herman H. and Caroline Grothaus, in 1844. In .1855 he married Caroline, daughter of Henry and Miana Baker, who was born in Auglaize County in 1839. Their children are named Henry E., Caroline, Frederick, John, and Christian. JOHN S. CHOOLHOFF, a native of Hanover, was born in the year 1808, and came to this county in 1838, when he settled in section 18 of this township. In 1851 he was married in this county, and has reared a family of eight children, named Miana, Anna, Eliza, William, Mary, Henry, John, and Rosena. A. N. REDMAN was born in Virginia in 1811, and came to this county with his father's family in 1833. His father, Moses, lived here the remainder of his life, and was one of the oldest pioneers. He died in 1871 at the age of eighty-four years. Our subject was married in 1861, his wife being a native of Virginia, where she was born in 1821. HERMAN H. SOELMAN, a native of Prussia, was born in the year 1829, and came with his parents to this county in 1845. He was married in 1856 to Caroline Woebling, who had come with her parents to this county from Germany in 1840. Their children are named Jasper H. Mary, Anna, Eliza, Louisa, Wil- liam, Theodore, and Emma. Mr. S. H., served as trustee and clerk of township. C. H. BECKER was born in this county in 1850, and has since lived here, and been engaged in farming. His parents, Henry C. and Miana Becker, were old pioneers, having come here in 1837, while the country was yet new. They were thus witnesses to the primitive condition of the county. WILLIAM M. BAKER was born in Cincinnati in 1832, and came to this county with his parents the next year. He has served as assessor, trustee, justice of the peace, and county commissioner. In 1853 he married Sarah F. Wakeman, who was born in New Jersey in 1836. They reared a family of nine children, four of whom are dead. EDWARD A. JONES, a native of Cincinnati, was born in 1830, and came with his parents, John W. and Sarah S. Jones, to this county in 1845. He now occupies the old home farm, his father having died in 1862. In 1852 he was married, and has since lived on the old place, which contains 140 acres of land. CHRISTIAN BOESEL, a son of Christian and Dorotha Boesel, was born in Auglaize County in 1839. In 1854 he married Miss Miana Wierwill, of New Knoxville Ohio, and moved to Shelby County. She was a native of Germany, and was born in 1838. Their children are, Edward J., born 1865; Josephine D., born 1867; Ida C., born 1869; Clementina W., born 1872. JACOB FRITZ, a native of Germany, came to this county in 1861, and settled on sections 6 and 7, where he purchased 120 acres of land, which he still owns, as also a ninety-acre farm in section 21. In 1853 he married Barbara Hiel, who was also a native of Germany. Their children are Jacob, Adam, Lena, Charles, Phillip, Lizzie, Meanna, August, Emma, Flora. HENRY H. SCHROERLUKE, a native of Germany, came to Cincinnati about 1849, where he lived about two years. He then moved to New Knoxville, where he lived about six years, and moved to New Bremen, where, after about thirteen years, he went to Piqua. Here he spent five years, and came to section 23 of this township. He was married in 1857 at New Bremen. Their children are named Frederick W., Henry H., William H., August, Sophia, Anna, and Callie. WILLIAM EVERSMAN, a native of Germany, was born in 1841, and came to this county in 1858 with his parents, John F. and Mary E. Eversman. In 1862 he married Elizabeth Wierwill, who was born in Germany in 1842, her parents having settled in the county in 1861. Their children are named Henry, Annie, Benjamin, Louis, and Elizabeth. MICHAEL MORGAN, a native of North Carolina, was born in 1811. In 1856 he settled in this county, and by persistent effort and industry reclaimed a farm from its native wildness. In 1841 he married Eliza E. Conner, who was born in North Carolina in the year 1806. Their only child is Martha A. SAMUEL UNUM was born in 1837, and is a native of this county, and has been a farmer all his life. He has served two terms as township trustee. In 1865 he married Lydia Swebert, who was born in Preble County in 1841. They have two children, named Frank P. and Oda J. HENRY WILLIAM LUDIKA was born in Auglaize County in 1852, and settled in this county in 1875. The same year he married Anna Feeman, who was born in Shelby County in 1856. They have two children, Rosena M. and William F. JOHN BANNING, a native of Miami County, Ohio, was born in 1844, and came to this county in 1870. Since that time he has been engaged in farming. In 1867 he married Miss Lavina Shidler, who was born in Miami County in 1850. Their children are named Edward A., Laura B., Samuel, and Simeon B. AUGUST MILLER, a farmer of this township, was brought to this county by his parents in 1843. He was born in Germany in 1840. In 1867 he married Elizabeth Maier, who was born in 1848, but whose parents came to the county in 1850. Their children are named Henry C., Eliza C., William F., Polly D., Christian H., Lafayette H., and Eddie C. JOHN H. BLUMENHORST, a farmer near McCartyville, was born in Germany in 1852, and settled in this township in 1874. He was married at New Bremen in 1874 to Miss Hannah Cook, who was born in Auglaize County in 1856. They have two children, named William H. and Henrietta C. JOHN C. SCHNELLE was born in Hanover in 1829, and was brought to this county in 1834. He was married in this county in 1854, and has raised seven children, viz., John H., William H., deceased, Minnie M., Ann M., Louis H., Alvina M., and August E. He held the office of township trustee during two terms. 234 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. WILLIAM LUSTY, a native of Ireland, was born in 1848. When about two years of age he was brought to the United States by his parents, they first locating at Sidney. In 1853 they moved to section 26 of this township. Of their four children, our subject and a brother, James, are still living. Their father died in 1862,while their mother still lives with her two sons. William and James are both farmers near McCartyville. JAMES VANNATE was born in New Jersey in 1811, and settled in this county in 1850. In 1830 he married Elizabeth Johnson, of New Jersey, and has reared two children, named Mary E. and Elizabeth. Mr. V. first settled on section 25 on woodland, where he built the first frame house in the section. His home became the place of meeting of the first religious societies in the neighborhood. WALTER SMART, a native of Scotland, was born in 1822, and came to this county in 1854. After coming to America he first located at Cincinnati, remaining there from 1849 until his removal here. His first settlement here was upon a forty-acre lot in section 36, but since that time his farm has increased to 232 acres, of which 100 acres are under cultivation. In. 1848 he mar- ried Miss Jane Graham, who was born in Scotland in the year 18.17. Their family consists of four children, named William, Robert, Jeannetta, and Isabella. Mr. Smart has been engaged in farming all his life. His post-office is Botkins Station. MICHAEL PAUL was born in Ireland in 1820, and settled in this county in 1857. He was married in New Hampshire in 1846. When he came here he located in a forty-acre lot in section 26, but afterwards purchased another farm of forty acres. His only son, John, now occupies the old homestead, and Mr. F. makes his home with him. His son's family consists of wife and two children, named Mary C. and John, one child, Joseph M., being dead. MICHAEL COCHLIN was born in London, England, in 1820, and came here in 1837. He was married in this county to Miss Catharine Hunt, and has reared four children, named Laura, Thomas, Elizabeth, and Emma. ADAM PAUL was born in Germany in 1809, and came to this county in 1833. He was married at New Bremen in 1835. On coming to this township he settled on a farm of seventy-eight acres, where he still resides, after clearing and improving it as one of the best farms in the township. He has raised a family of ten children. BENJAMIN SCHOF, a native of Prussia, came to this county in 1849, and was married in 1853. Their children are named Catherine, Peter, Nancy, Lena, Joseph, Laura, Eliza, Andrew, Frank, and Barnie. WILLIAM BRANDT was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1833, and settled in this county when twenty years of age, locating in 1855 in section 17. He married Frederica Baker in 1862, she being born in this county in 1841. Their children are named Eliza, Henry, Christian, Caroline, Rose Amanda, Frederica, and Ameal. WILLIAM CRONING, a native of Ireland, was born in County Cork, and settled in Shelby County in 1847. He is a farmer by occupation. Post-office address, McCartyville. CHARLES YOUNG was born in Germany, and came to this county in 1851. He married Elizabeth Fitzjohn in 1868, and has a family of ten children. McLEAN TOWNSHIP. Location. This township lies on the west side of the county, being bounded north by Auglaize County and Van Buren Township; east by Van Buren and Turtle Creek townships; south by Cyntliian Township; and west by Auglaize County. Water Courses. The township is watered by Loramie Creek, which flows from Dinsmore Township, and then seeks a southeastern outlet. and by Mill Creek and Second Run. The Loramie reservoir, covering an area of about six thousand acres, is located largely in this township, about one thousand acres being in Van Buren. This reservoir is formed by the damming of Loramie Creek, and constitutes one of the water supplies of the Miami and Erie Canal. This canal also traverses the township from north to south, and affords. shipping facilities in the absence of railroads. These streams afford ample outlet for drainage, and enable the reclamation of all lands without the limits of the reservoir. The value of these advantages cannot be overestimated in a section which is generally level, and largely dependent upon artificial drainage. Organization. The organization was legally effected by virtue of the following order:— "Commissioners' Office, Sidney, March 1, 1834. Members of the Board present: Samuel Gamble, John Francis, William Cecil, and Auditor William Murphy. Entry.—The Board being satisfied that it is necessary to erect a new township, and being petitioned for that purpose, they proceeded to erect a new township of the following bounds, to wit: Beginning at the county line between Parke and Sheihy counties, where the old Indian boundary line—made at the Greenville Treaty Conference in 1795—intersects said county line, and running thence with said Indian boundary line in an easterly direction to the southeast corner of section 8, in town. 8 south, range 5 east; thence north with the section line to the county line between Shelby and Allen (Auglaize) counties; thence west with said line to northwest corner of Shelby County; thence south and west with the west boundary line of Shelby County to the place of beginning; and the Board orders, That said township be known and designated by the name of McLean. It is further ordered and directed, That notice be given, by advertisement according to law, to the electors of said township, to meet at the house of Hezekiah Hubble on the first Monday of April next, for the purpose of electing officers for said township. List of Officers as far as ascertainable. 1850. Trustees, Henry Wehrman, Joseph Sherman, Philip Hoffman. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. 1851. Trustees, Henry Wellman, Joseph Mendenhall, Henry Mayer. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. 1852. Trustees, Henry Wehrman, Joseph Mendenhall, Joseph Sherman. Clerk, James Flinn. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, A. H. Ayers. 1853. Trustees, Henry Wellman, Joseph Sherman, Adam Poul. Clerk, James Flinn. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, Henry Schulze. 1854. Trustees, Bernard Deiters, Henry Wehrman, Joseph Leaman. Clerk, James Flinn. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, William Sherman. 1855. Trustees, James Flinn, W. Hathaway, John Sherman. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, William Sherman. 1856. Trustees, John Sherman, Wesley Hathaway, J. B. Bovendick. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, Wesley Hathaway. 1857. Trustees, John Sherman, Wesley Hathaway, Bernard Bovendick. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, Wesley Hathaway. 1858. Trustees, John Sherman, Frederick Kramer, Y. H. Hutt. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, William Sherman. 1859. Trustees, Frederick Kramer, Henry Quartman, Bernard Deiters. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, William Sherman. 1860. Trustees, J. H. Quartman, Frederick Kramer, John Waucop. Clerk, Henry Sherman. Treasurer, H. H. Pressman. Assessor, William Sherman. 1861. Trustees, John Waucop, Frederick Kramer, H. Quartman. Clerk, J. B. Rottinghaus. Treasurer, Jacob Quartman. Assessor, William Sherman. 1862. Trustees, John Waucop, Bernard Pille, J. H. Meyer. Clerk, J. B. Rottinghaus. Treasurer, Joseph Quartman. Assessor, G. H. Lauversiek. 1863. Trustees, John Waucop, Bernard Pille, Bernard Vocke. Clerk, J. B. Rottinghaus. Treasurer, Joseph Quartman. Assessor, Henry Sherman. 1864. Trustees, John Waucop, B. Pille, B. Vocke. Clerk, J. B. Rottinghaus. Treasurer, Joseph Quartman. Assessor, Bernard Deiters. 1865. Trustees, John Walkup, Joseph Sherman, F. Kramer. Clerk, J. B. Rottinghaus. Treasurer, Joseph Quartman. Assessor, James Quartman. 238 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. 1866. Trustees, John Walkup, John Sherman. F. Kramer. Clerk, J. B. Rottinghaus. Treasurer, F. Gast. Assessor, Philip Raterman. 1867. Trustees, John Walkup, Joseph Sherman, F. Kramer. Clerk, J. B. Rottinghaus. Treasurer, F. Gast. Assessor, Henry Menke. 1868. Trustees, Joseph Sherman, John 'Walkup, F. Kramer. Clerk, W. J. Sherman. Treasurer, F. Gast. Assessor, Bernard Deiters. 1874. Trustees, Clemens Gudenkauf, John Sherman, Joseph Quartman. Clerk, Philip Raterman. Treasurer, Henry Rottinghaus. Assessor, Henry Menke. 1875. Trustees, John Sherman, Clemens Gudenkauf, Henry Bushman. Clerk, John Inderrieden. Treasurer, Joseph Lemm. Assessor, Stephen Kerne. 1876. Trustees, John Sherman, Henry Bushman, Henry Schlater. Clerk, J. D. Inderrieden. Treasurer, F. Gast. Assessor, Stephen Kerne. 1877. Trustees, Henry Bushman, Henry Barnhorst, Henry Schlater. Clerk, J. D. Inderrieden. Treasurer, F. Gast. Assessor, Joseph Raterman. 1878. Trustees, Henry Schlater, Henry Barnhorst, Christian Kirsch. Clerk, J. D. Inderrieden. Treasurer, H. H. Bushman. Assessor, Joseph Raterman. 1879. Trusteees, Henry Barnhorst, Christian Kirsch, Anton Winner. Clerk, J. D. Inderrieden. Treasurer, H. H. Bushman. Assessor, Herman I nderrieden. 1880. Trustees, Christian Kersch, H. Schlater, John Toeller. Clerk, J. D. Inderrieden. Treasurer, Joseph Quartman. Assessor, Herman Inderrieden. 1881. Trustees, John Toeller, John Walkup, Joseph Raterman. Clerk, Philip Raterman. Treasurer, Joseph Quartman. Assessor, B. F. Chessler. Justices of the Peace. W. C. Ayers, Nov. 18, 1837. Isaac Edwards (resigned May 25, 1842), June 8, 1841. Jacob Hauss (resigned October 14, 1843), June 18, 1842. Francis Pilliod, Nov. 11, 1843. Alex. H. Hayes, Oct. 24, 1846. Wm. A. Edwards, Jan. 18, 1850. Wm. A. Edwards, Jan. 22, 1853. John B. Rottinghaus, April 14, '53. Joseph Mendenhall, Jan. —, 1856. John Walkup (resigned June 2, 1857), April 14, 1857. Andrew Ginn, Oct. 21, 1857. J. B. Rottinghaus, April 12, 1859. Milton Kemper, Nov. 10, 1860. J. B. Rottinghaus, April 22, 1862. Wm. Ginn, April 17, 1863. J. B. Rottinghaus, April 14, 1865. Henry Menke (refused to serve), April 11, 1866. Wm. Ginn, June 24, 1866. Henry Sherman, April 13, 1868. J. W. Barber, April 12, 1869. J. B. Rottinghaus, Oct. 11, 1869. Henry Rottinghaus, Oct. 12, 1872. Henry Rottinghaus, Oct. 20, 1875. David K. Brown, April 20, 1877. Joseph Raterman, Oct. 14, 1878. Henry Rottinghaus, May 26, 1880. Albert Hasebrook, Oct. 14, 1881. Statistical. At the State election in 1850, ninety-three votes were cast, Reuben Wood, Democratic candidate for Governor, receiving seventy-nine votes, and William Johnston, Whig candidate, receiving fourteen votes. At the election held in 1851 for the adoption or rejection of the new constitution, and for or against a license for the sale of intoxicating liquors, the vote stood : for the new Constitution, 120 ; against the new Constitution, 3. For license, 118 ; against license, 5. In 1852, at the Presidential election, 122 votes were cast for the Democratic electors, and 28 for the Whig electors. In 1856 the Presidcntial election called out 156 votes. In 1860 the Democratic electors received 158 votes, and the Republican electors 34. In 1864 the McClellan electors received 219 votes, and the Lincoln electors 20. School Districts. Agreeably to law the trustees ordered the township to be divided into six school districts, as follows:- District No. 1 : Beginning at the northwest corner of section 5, town. 8 south, range 4 east ; thence east to northeast corner of section 3, town. 8 south, range 4 east; thence south to the southeast corner of section 10, town. 8 south, range 4 east ; thence west along the section line to the southwest corner of fractional section 3, town. 8 south, range 4 east ; thence north to place of beginning. District No. 2: Beginning northwest corner of section 3, town. 11, range 4 east ; thence east along the boundary line to the northeast corner of northwest quarter, section 1, town. 11, range 4 east ; thence south, dividing sections 1 and 2 in the middle, to the southeast corner of southwest quarter, section 12, town. 11, range 4 east ; thence south to the southwest corner of section 10, town. 11, range 4 east ; thence north to place of beginning. District No. 3: Beginning at the northwest corner of section 2, town. 8 south, range f east ; thence east to the northeast corner of northwest quarter, section 12, town. 8 south, range 4 east; thence south, dividing sections 12 and 1, town. 8 south, range 4 east, through the middle ; thence south, dividing sections 5 and 8, to the southeast corner of southwest quarter of section 8, town. 10 south, range 5 east; thence to the south west corner of southeast quarter, section 12, town. 11, range 4 east ; thence north, dividing said sections 12 and 1 in the middle, and to the northwest corner of quarter-section 1, town. 11, range 4 east; thence west along the boundary line to the southwest corner of fractional section 15, town. 8 south, range 4 east ; thence north to the northwest corner of fractional section 15 ; thence east to the southwest corner of section 10, town. 8 south, range 4 east ; thence north to place of beginning. District No. 4: Beginning at the northwest corner of northeast quarter section 1, town. 8 south, range 4. east; thence east to the northeast corner of section 5, town. 8 south, range 5 east ; thence south to the southeast corner of section 8, town. 8 south, range 5 east ; thence east to the corner northeast of section 2, town. 10, range 5 east; thence south to the southeast corner, section 11, town. 10, range 5 east ; thence west to the southwest corner of southeast quarter section 8 in town 10, range 5 east ; thence north, dividing sections 8, 5, 12, and 1 in the middle, to place of beginning. District No. 5 : Beginning at the northwest corner of section 9, town. 7, range 5 east ; thence east to the northeast corner of section 20, town. 7 south, range 5 east ; thence south to the southeast corner of section 32, town. 7 south, range 5 east ; thence west to the southwest corner of section 31, town. 7 south, range 5 east ; thence to place of beginning. District No. 6: Beginning at the northwest corner of section 31, town. 6 south, range 5 east ; thence east to the northeast corner of section 32, town. 6 south, range 5 east ; thence south to the southeast corner of section 17, town. 6 south, range 5 east ; thence west to the southwest corner of section 18, town. 7 south, range 5 east ; thence north to the place of beginning. Recorded April 13, 1850. HENRY WEHRMANN, JOSEPH SHERMAN, PHILIP HOFFMAN, HENRY SHERMAN, Clerk.  Trustees. BERLIN-LORAMIE P. O. Berlin was surveyed Dec. 2, 1837, by Jonathan Counts, for Wm. Prillaman, proprietor. All its lots are four by eight rods except fractional ones. Main Street is eleven rods wide, and runs north 25̊ east; Walnut, Water, and Elm streets run at right angles, which is south 65̊ east, and are each four rods wide ; High Street runs south 89̊ east and is four rods wide. The alleys are each one rod wide. The graveyard contains .51 of an acre. The Miami Canal and the Piqua and St. Marys State road pass through Main Street. The plat and description were certified to by the surveyor Dec.. 2, 1837. The town was laid out on Loramie Creek and had very irregular boundaries. The original plat contained forty-three in-lots and fifteen out-lots, and was bounded south by the old Indian Boundary or Greenville Treaty line. Acknowledgment. The State of Ohio, Shelby County, ss.. Be it known that on the 5th day of December, 1837, before the undersigned, a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said county, personally appeared William Prillaman, above named, and acknowledged the foregoing to be a true and correct plat or map of the town of Berlin aforesaid, to the end that it may be recorded as such. Given under my hand and seal this day and year first above written. HUGH THOMPSON, Judge Sheihy Corn. Pleas. Recorded December 29, 1837. The town is located on the Miami and Erie Canal, in McLean Township. It is an active little village of some five hundred inhabitants, and enjoys the distinction of a location within less than a mile of the site of old Fort Loramie or Pickawillany, which carries the memory back to the struggles which preceded the old French and Indian war of 1756. Near by the village flows Loramie Creek, the " West Branch of the Big Miami" of some older publications. The fort itself, instead of being at the mouth of this stream,- as generally stated in other works, was less than one mile from the site of Berlin., while the mouth of the " West Branch," or Loramie, is below Lockington, south of the county line. Several relics have been discovered in this locality, and among these was a silver cross, evidently belonging to the French chevaliers of that early and warlike period. This relic is preserved by the Priest at Berlin, at whose house it may be seen at any time. The town population, like that of the township in general, is composed of Germans, or direct descendants of this nationality. A marked characteristic of the people is the industry observable on every hand. This German element came here into the woods, and by hard, incessant. toil, cleared away the primeval forest, wringing farms from the wilderness, and building a town on the ruins of a forest.. In common with the people of the township, the HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 239 inhabitants are almost uniformly Catholics in religion, and Democrats in politics. There were peculiarities which brought about these results, among which we mention one fact on the authority of Rev. Bigot. After settlement here, the Germans strove to prevent the settlement of Americans in their midst, and by different methods very nearly succeeded. Still a few straggling Americans settled on lands within the township, but each soon found it desirable to leave, and so was bought out as early as he would sell, and was generally succeeded by a German. This, at least, was the plan of the German settlers themselves, and keeping the plan in view, they have preserved the characteristics of nationality, reli- gion; and politics up to the present time. From the town, a daily mail is carried by stage to and from Sidney, while communication is had with Minster, on the L. E. and W. Ry. and different towns on the Narrow-gauge road in Mercer and Darke counties. Berlin has no railroad nearer than Minster, about three miles north, this being the southern terminus of the St. Marys and Minster branch of the Lake Erie and Western Railroad. Throughout the town and township the German characteristics are preserved to such an extent that a stranger would question his senses as to the possibility of a community, no larger than this, maintaining the integrity of all German habits, customs, and manners. They have cleared excellent farms, erected substantial buildings, and in their own way and according to their own ideas, pursue the enjoyments of life. Perhaps their church comes first, and ;he building is almost fit for the abode of personal gods. Next come social customs, and fronting these is lager beer, without which it appears life would be a burden, and liberty a misnomer. Following this comes politics, in which field some one man will be found to hold an electoral dictatorship, and on election day Democratic ballots will be found " thick as autumnal leaves in Valambrosa." There are, in short, characteristics here which the next generation will not entirely outgrow nor outrun. Business Interests. The business of the town at this time is represented by the following persons and pursuits, with the year in which such business was opened. John H. Willman, 1855, drygoods and groceries. Henry Teckelenbuge, 1877, harness shop. Michael Moormann, 1876, drygoods and groceries. J. D. Inderriden, 1872, hardware, stoves, and tinware. J. H. Rottinghaus, 1869, grocery and restaurant. Bushman & Rottinghaus, 1873, stave factory and cooper shop. J. H. Menke, 1877, general store, post-office, and notary public. Jacob Ullemann, 1878, boots and shoes. Joseph Quartman, 1880, blacksmith. John A. Lowmann, 1867, harness and saddler shop. Joseph Riger, 1857, boots and shoes. Herman Bushman, 1865, plow and blacksmith shop. Joseph Vondrell, 1869, proprietor Vondrell House. H. W. Hopkins, M.D., 1882. Vincent Schmitt, 1875, merchant tailor. Mrs. Mary Chesler, 1868, millinery and dress goods. Jacob Schuler, 1878, restaurant and saloon. Valentine Gain, 1864, carpenter and contractor. Moormann & Kerne, 1861, flouring mill. Joseph Quartman, 1856, general blacksmith. Henry Borchers, boat yard and dry dock. J. Henry Quartman, 1870, grocery and restaurant. Rev. William Bigot, Pastor St. Michael's Church. Menke Bros. (J. H. and H. B.), hardware, tinware, and stoves, established 1882. Hamer & Vocke, drugs and medicines, established 1882. St. Michael's Church at Berlin—Roman Catholic. [See engraving.] On. Sunday, October 2, 1881, the new St. Michael's Church of Berlin was solemnly consecrated by the Right Reverend Coadjutor Bishop W. H. Elders, of Cincinnati, Ohio. This fact is very significant when it is remembered there are only three or four consecrated edifices in the whole archdiocese, for the most worthily built churches are usually only dedicated or sanctified. To be consecrated, it is necessary: 1st. That there be a well-defined congregation, not only able to build, but also to support the edifice, and this also includes the idea of regular clergy at all times and under all circumstances. 2d. That the high altar be at the same time consecrated, and that the church be well and substantially built. 3d. That the building must be under a distinct roof, constructed of substantial materials, and be free from debt. These qualities 411 belong to this church, as beauty of design, strength of structure, and richness of ornament all unite to make an impression of admiration. The congregation of over two hundred families consist largely of farmers, whose means are largely at the disposal of the church, thus guaranteeing the maintenance of the beautiful structure to which they have so generously contributed. The building is 150 by 65 feet, is clear of debt, and represents a cost of over $40,000. The congregation. lies in the northwest part of Shelby County, and is bordered on the north by the Minster congregation ; on the west by the St. Joseph's, Egypt, and Woodland; on the south by Newport and Russia; and on the east by St. Patrick's. and Sidney. The parish is long but narrow, being about fifteen miles from east to west, while it is scarcely three miles from north to south. About eighty families live in the village of Berlin, seventy east of the village, and fifty-five on the western side of the parish. Berlin appears to have been constituted a parish in 1838, for at that date an old book contains the minute: " This congregation took its beginning in the year of salvation one thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight, on the fourth of June." At that date forty families registered here at one time. Some German families were already here for several years, but the chief growth was experienced during the construction of the canal, when many families came here from Cincinnati and other cities. About this time a log Church was erected, and occasionally a priest came from Minster, read mass, baptized children, solemnized marriages, and interred the dead. The priest of the society of "The Precious Blood" labored at Minster, and to that place the Catholics of this community frequently went to attend regular services. Under these circumstances they were not discouraged, but proved their tenacity to the mother church by their ardent adherence thereto. It was a period of rudeness, but earnestness was not wanting, and in the midst of all happiness sat in smiles. Their dwellings were log huts, but they hid few skeletons away; their church was a log building, but hypocritical fashion was a stranger within its walls. How the old folks love to converse of those early "better" days. Here one tells of his pride in a new two-story log House in which he slept one night, to awake in the morning and find the building sadly out of the perpendicular, through the influence of one night's stiff breeze. They all have their story to tell, those old settlers, and while one tells of his building, another speaks of clearing, and still another of his exploits with the gun. Then the grandmothers tell of their struggles to protect their poultry and vegetables, as well as of the dangers against which the children had to be guarded. Markets were distant, but as wants were few the people still enjoyed life, and the productions of the land satisfied most every necd. Thus matters largely stood until 1840, when the parish embraced over one hundred families. Along the years they ran, until the log hut of the farmer was giving place to brick dwellings, and so, in 1849, a brick church, sixty by thirty feet, was constructed, and hung with a seven hundred-pound bell. But this season, 1849-50, proved trying to the new community, for it was the season of the cholera in its most dreaded type. Twenty-eight persons fell its victims in the space of two months, while some tw.o hundred died from the same disease in the larger and neighboring community of Minster. But the plague ran its course, and again the people resumed neglected undertakings. The church was dedicated, and the services of Rev. Augustus Berger, of the Grand Duchy of Baden, were secured by the congregation. Under his care the new priest's house was built. He was succeeded in 1857 by Rev. Henry Muckerheide, of Oldenberg, who labored here until 1863 with great zeal and ability. He was succeeded by Rev. M. Anton Meyer, of Canton Basel, Switzerland, who, with characteristic energy, had an addition of twenty feet added to the church, and in a few years later carried the construction of a school-house to completion. On account of failing health he retired in 1873, after ten years of active labor in this field. In 1873 the institution of the " Fathers of the Holy Spirit " was abrogated in Germany, and Archbishop Purcell wrote to the Reverend General-chief of the society to procure some priests for this country. Accordingly, on January 1, 1874, four priests and twelve lay-brothers of the society left Paris with the intention of coming to the. United States. Among these priests was the present pastor of Berlin, Rev. William Bigot. He was born in. Upper Elsase (Alsace) diocese of Strasburg, and was ordained a priest May 22, 1864, in the seminary chapel of the. Mother-house-of-the-Holy-Ghost. Soon after ordination he was sent to Kaiserwerth, near Dusseldorf, as superior, to take the superintendency of the Archbishopric Hermit-house, and perform the services of the church connected with the cloister. From 1864 to 1870 he was allowed to serve near the grave of Suitbertus, the apostle of the Saxons and Frieses. Then came the Franco-Prussian war, and the Right Rev. Bishop Hefele, of Rottenburg, demanded priests to minister in French and German to the wounded and the prisoners. The lot fell upon Father Bigot to leave the cloister at Marienthal, near A u, at the Sieg, Rhenish Prussia, to assume the pastorate over 12,000 captured and wounded soldiers at Stuttgart, Ludwigsberg, Asperg, and Grund, in Wurtemberg. The royal government aided him in every possible way, so that he found his eleven months' sojourn among the soldiers rather pleasurable, although attended by arduous labors and many privations and exposures. After this service he was entrusted with the conduct of the cloister of Marienthal, archdiocese of Cologne. Under the French Government he was authorized: 1st, to collect certificates of death of such French soldiers as died in captivity, in response to which he filled and forwarded to the ministry a volume of 18,400 such certificates ; 2d, to erect suitable monuments in all graveyards of French captives, and to cause anniversaries to be founded at the chief stations. This request of the Government was accompanied by a bill of exchange for eighty thousand francs. With this, in one hundred and sixty German burying-grounds, monuments and tombstones were erected, and about twenty anniversaries established. For these services the French Government conferred upon Father Bigot the Cross of Chivalry, of the Legion of Honor, and the Cross of Merit ; also the sum of one thousand &trcs and a recommendation to take a journey of recreation after the arduous labors were performed. Soon afterward he left Europe and reached Berlin, January 20, 1874. On his first visit to Cincinnati, the Most Rev. Archbishop Purcell said 240 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. to him:, " In Berlin you .will find enough work to do ; a large parish, and there you must build a church." In the mean time old debts amounting to $700 had to be paid, the priest's house to be repaired, and the holy vessels to be renewed. All this was readily done, but the congregation did not. yet feel disposed to undertake the construction of a new church. Three bells were first procured at a cost of about $1000, and weighed respeetively 1600, 1200, and 700 pounds. Still, as the congregation did not think these bells loud enough, the priest invested his year's salary in a 3800 pound bell. But a new tower was needed for this bell, and a new church for the tower. The year 1879 was prosperous, and the plan of building met with great favor. It was resolved to build, and further, that over and above the manual labor which the members could perform, the building should .not 'cost more than $30,000. This sum was further to be raised by two collections in 1879 and 1881. The collection throughout the parish lasted about nine days, and resulted in obtaining $16,000. This, added to the $4000 fund of the church, gave a starting point with $20,000. The collection. for the year 1881 brought $8,000, which, added to a pew-rent surplus fund of $2000, raised the aggregate to $30,000, before the .completion of the church. Aside from this, individual gifts were received, such as a stained glass window, or a figure. One family contributed $800 for the Saint Mary's Altar, while many others gave in &quiet manner something above the regular subscription. Messrs. Cudell & Richardson, architects, of Cleveland, were secured to furnish plans, and the edifice as it stands is their only necessary recommendation. Henry Quartman, of Berlin, assumed the task of burning one million bricks, to be delivered at the building site at $4 per thousand. A basement ten feet high, 150 feet long, and 65 feet wide was first constructed. Messrs. Sutherland & Co., of Sidney, used 900 perches of stone in the foundation walls. By the 12th of October, 1879, the foundation was completed, and on that date the Most Reverend Archbishop laid the cornerstone with imposing ceremonies. For the year -1880 Mr. John Deman, of Defiance, Ohio, assumed the entire brickwork ; Messrs. John Bier & Co., of Cleveland, did 60.00 feet of stonework ; Mr. Anton Goehr, of Minster, constructed the roof framework ; Messrs. Auld & Coacher did the slatework, and Mr. John Inderrieden, of Berlin, assumed the tin and galvanized ironwork. A tower 200 feet high adorns the build. ing, and in this are hung the four magnificent bells already mentioned. During 1881 Mr. Sarflat, of Toledo, furnished the entire material for the arches of the three naves and the spires. In June and July the plastering was done by Messrs. Hays & Co., of Sidney. The decoration was next furnished by Fr. X. Hefele and his corps of artists from Cincinnati. Messrs. Booth & Riesler, of Buffalo, New York, furnished the seventeen magnificent windows of stained glass, twelve of which show designs worthy of a master hand. Mr. Schroeder, of Cincinnati, furnished the altars, pulpit, and communion table. Messrs. Ricker & Krill, of Delphos, furnished the pews; Schwartz & Gair the floors; and Mr. Schaefer, of Wisconsin, the organ; The whole building is a magnificent specimen of Gothic architecture, and reflects great credit upon all who in any. manner contributed to the design or execution. The Consecration Ceremonies.—Sunday, the 2d day of October, 1881, will . remain a memorable day for St. Michael's congregation in Berlin, for on that day their new and beautiful house Of God was solemnly consecrated by the Right Rev. Bishop Wm. H. Elders. On Saturday afternoon the highly venerable consecrator, coming from Sidney, Ohio, was met at the boundary of the parish by the .young men belonging to the congregation, about forty in number, mounted on horses, and was by them received and escorted to Berlin. As the procession came in view the bells of the new church were merrily ringing, and cannon shots resounded. The inhabitants of Berlin had also, in honor of their distinguished guest, festively decorated their houses, and upon the streets triumphal arches were erected, Soon after the arrival of the Right Rev. Bishop the relics destined ,for the high altar in the new church were transferred and carried over in solemn procession, in which all Berlin participated, to the old church, and there set to view during the night for reverence and adoration by the faithful.. The church was not vacatcd the entire night by the devout, until early on Sunday .morning at four o'clock the holy masses began, which were celebrated by the priests that were present. At six o'clock A. M. ,in the presence of the entire congregation and a large number of persons from the neighboring congregations, the imposing- and solemn ceremonies of the consecration began and continued until after ten o'clock. Four priests were present. After the consecration the Right Rev. Bishop .Celebrated a pontifical high mass. The Rev. Moeller, D. D., acted as Master of Ceremonies, and the Bev.. General-vicar P. Otto Jair, 0. S. F., as assistant; as honorary deacons, the Revs. Messrs. Provincial P. Henry Drees, C. P. P. S., and P. Andrew Kunkler, C.. P. P. S., of Minster, as deacon,. the Rev. P. Johannes Von den Brock, C. P. P. S., of Egypt; as sub-deacon, the Rev. P. Mathias Kent, C. P. P. S., of Minster. Besides these there were :present in the sanctuary the. Rev. Messrs. Nicholaus Nichols of Osborn, P. Albert Vow", C. P. P. S., of Minster; Honoratus Bourbon, of Bellefontaine ; Alcide Bourion, of Frenchtown; J. Kayser, of Milford ; Francis J. Roth, of Russia; O.. F. Steinlage, of Piqua ; Dominic Shunk,. of St. Patrick, and Wm. Bigot, Pastor of the St. Michael's congregation. After the pontifical high mass Rev. N. Nickols ascended the pulpit and preached the festal sermon in the German language. He demonstrated in eloquent words to the attentive and devout congregation, how man as the temple of God must be constituted; that peculiar qualifications must distinguish him just as a building dedicated to the Lord distinguishes itself distinctly from a common dwelling-house. After Father Nickols had concluded the Right Rev. Bishop held an address to the congregation. He gave them deserved praise for their self-sacrifice and magnanimity which enabled them to erect such a. magnificent temple of God and to so embellish and endow the same, that soon after its completion it could not only be dedicated, but also consecrated. He exhorted them also in the future to. stand together so unanimously and generously as to serve as an example and type for other congregations. In the afternoon at three o'clock solemn vespers were held, after which the General-vicar, P. Otto Jair, O. S. F., preached. He exhorted the congregation that they should henceforth frequently and regularly visit their beautiful house of God, upon which they could 'look with pride ; then God would likewise look complaisantly upon. the temple erected to him ; otherwise God would have no pleasure in the same even if it were built of pure gold and silver. During the pontifical high mass the Maennerchor of Piqua, Ohio, sang, and during vespers, the church choir of the congregation. At ate close of vespers the Te Deum was struck up, and with it the festivities closed. The St. Michael's church is a really magnificent structure ; proudly it towers aloft with its tall slender steeple, as one of the most beautiful churches of the archdiocese. It is built in the Italian Gothic style. Four slender pillars alternately divide the interior, which is decorated extraordinarily rich, into three naves. Magnificent, is the glass painting of the windows. . Upon the main window in the sanctuary Christ and the archangel Gabriel are represented. Both the sidc windows contain respectively St. Augustine and St. Boniface.. or the fourteen other windows, five are in fresco painting, while upon the remaining are represented St. John the Baptist, the most blessed Virgin Mary, St. Anna, St. Elizabeth, St. Catharina, St. Henricus, St. Anthony, St. Lawrence, and the child Jesus. The three altars built by Mr. Schroeder, of Cincinnati, are real masterpieces, namely: the high altar whose table is supported by six small pillars. The fields between the pillars are filled up with emblems, of which the middle one contains the book with scven seals with the lamb. The tabernacle has richly ornamented folding doors; above these is a niche for the ostentation of the Most Holy Sacrament, beside which two worshipping angels are standing under canopies. The altar-picture is the crucifixion-group in a niche under a canopy which terminates in turrets with buttresses and finials richly provided with carved ornaments. The side fields contain the statues of both apostle-chiefs, likewise under canopies with richly articulated tower and pyramid. Beside the altar there are placed on both sides pedestals for worshipping angels. Both of the side altars (St. Mary's and St.. Joseph's altars) are wrought correspondingly with the high altar, and contain in the chief niche respectively St. Mary's and St. Joseph's statue. The St. Mary's altar contains in the side niches the statues of St. Rosa and St. Theresa ; the altar table, decorated in the Gothic style, contains the statue "St. Mary." The St. Joseph's altar contains in the side niches the statues St. Francis Xavier and St Alois ; the altar table the signature "St. Joseph." Pulpit and communion table are held in like style and are splendid works. Likewise is the organ built by Schaefer of Schleisingerville, Wis., in its outward appcarance corresponding with the building style of the church, held in rich Gothic: the work praises its master. If one, therefore, condenses the whole, it must be said that thee St.. Michael's church in Berlin numbers among the most beautiful churches. in all America. And what is the. main point, it is free of debts and could. be consecrated immediately after its completion, a prerogative which only about three churches in the archdiocese of Cincinnati can share with it.*. BIOGRAPHIES. HENRY MENKE was born in Cincinnati January 11, 183g, and in 1853 entered as an apprentice at the machinist trade at the shops of Harkness & Sons. In. 1858 he married Miss Bernidina Schulze, and haS reared six children, three boys and three girls. In June, 1861, he left Cincinnati with $17, and came to Berlin, where he began work in a sawmill, earning $15 per month.. On the 23d Of August, 1862, he enlisted in Company C, 118th O. V. I,, under Capt. Thomas L. Young, and was discharged at Cleve- land, Ohio, July 9, 1865, having served until the close of the war. Returning to Berlin he again worked in a sawmill until 1867, and then carried the hod for thirteen years, while his wife attended to the little store they had already started. In 1866 he was elected justice of the peace, but declined to serve. In 1869 he was elected assessor, which office he held until 1876. He also served as constable from 1870 to 1873, when he was elected to the school board, and at once made president of that body, which position he still retains. In 1877 he was appointed post- * The material for this sketch was obtained from Rev. Wm. Bigot, Pastor of the congregation. HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 241 master at Loramie (Berlin), which position he also holds at this writing. In 1880 hc was -appointed census enumerator of.McLean Township, and has been township collector of taxes for sixteen years. He is now engaged in the mercantile trade, having a well-stocked general supply store. He is also a notary public, and is one of the leading men of the township. JOSEPH RIEGER, a resident of the town of Berlin during the past quarter of a century, was born in the village of Stodlin, county Elwangen, kingdom of Wurttemberg, on the 31st day of October, 1832. In June, 1852, he came to the United States, and located for a short time at Lancaster, New York, where he worked at the shoemaker trade. From Lancaster he moved to Dayton, Ohio, where he worked at his trade about two years, and then went to Greenville. He only remained here a short time, however, for, in 1857, he moved to the village of Berlin, where he has since been engaged at his old trade, in connection with which he has kept saloon. He is now one of the leading, influential citizens of the township. In 1857 he married Margaret Wyse, who was born in Amsterdam, Holland, but came to this country with her parents in 1853. They were married in Dayton, and the result of the union was twelve children, named Louisa, August, Catharine, Caroline, Mary, Joseph (deceased), Joseph (deceased); Maggie, Cecelia, John (deceased), Joseph, and William. Mrs. Rieger died May 3, 1872, and about a year later Mr. Rieger married Mary Schwarz, who was born in Piqua, Ohio, and was the daughter of John Schwarz, an old resident of that town. Six children were the fruits of this marriage, viz., Anna, Rosine, Joseph (deceased), Francis, Peter, and Jacob (deceased). HENRY A RUNG was the son of Henry and Elizabeth Arling, who settled in Auglaize County in 1834. He was born February 15, 1841, and brought up to farming and stock raising. He married Elizabeth Linge March, 1863, by whom he had two children, Elisha and Bernard. September 9, 1879, he again was married to Mary Fisher, daughter of John and Christena Fisher, who was born October, 1855, by whom he has one child, John. FERDINAND ARKENBURGH, son of Bernard and Mary A. Arkenburgh, who settled in this county in 1831, was born March, 1822, in Germany, and is a farmer and stock-raiser. On February 17, 1852, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Hiram and Catharine Surmann, who was born January 18, 1824. Their children are named Joseph F., John B., Ferdinand N., Mary C., Herman H., Caroline E., and Frank B. He has filled the office of supervisor, and furnished a volunteer, but was not drafted. His father-in-law, Hiram Surmam, was the first settler on sections 10, 11, and. 12. His house stands almost upon the site of the ancient Fort Loramie, or the site of the first English settlement in this State. JOHN G. BERNING, son of John H. and Mary E. Berning, was born in Germany February 13, 1826, and raised a farmer. On April 18, 1850, he married Benedacia, daughter of Henry Gerkison; she was born in 1830. Their children are Elizabeth, Mary, John Henry, Anthony Herman, Josephine, Altoney, Armia, Frederick, and Agnes. He has filled the offices of supervisor and school director. His father was the first settler on section 30, and cut the first road through the section. HENRY BERNING, brother of John D. was born in 1831, and is a farmer. In 1856 he mar- ried Mary G., daughter of Bernard and E. Doudging, who was born in 1835. Their children are Demia, John, Richard, Antoney, Bernard, Agnes, Mary, and Elizabeth. BERNARD BOVENDICK, son of John D. and Margaret Bovendicke, who settled on section 30 February- 1, 1855. He married his wife, Benedenia, May 20, 1846, and she was born in 1823. Their children are Bernard, Mary A:, Henry, John„ and Mary. He has held the office of supervisor. FREDERICK BRAND, son of Herman and Maria H. Brand, was born January 20, 1850, and raised a farmer and stock-raiser. January, 1873, he married Maria, daughter of Joseph and Maria Olbers, who was born in October, 1854. He was pike director two years. Their children are Antony, Henry, Herman H., and Herman. HERMAN F. BRORING, son of Herman H. and Mary A. Broring, was born May 6, 1846, and was raised a farmer. On the 19th day of May, 1875, he married Annie Margaret Eilermann, daughter of George H. and Mary Eilermann. She was born March 9, 1853. Their children are Agnes, Henry, and Frank. JOHN B. BORCHERS, son of John H. and Catharine Borchers, was born August 7, 1832, and was raised a farmer.. April 19, 1866, he married Catharine, daughter of Henry and Mary E. Zimmerman, who was born May 4, 1847. Their children are Catharine, Elizabeth, Mary, Henry, Bernard, and Climana. He has filled the offices of school director and supervisor. BENJAMIN BEANCER, son of Andrew and Elizabeth Beancer, was born in 1840, and was raised as a farmer. In 1869 he married Huldia, daughter of August Wehinger and Frances his wife; she was born in 1843. Their children are Charles, Frances, John, Andrew, and Henry. JOSEPH BORHORST, son of Antony and Elizabeth Borhorst, was born March 10, 1840. and was raised a farmer, and married Elizabeth Strucamp, daughter of Garret H. Strucamp and Margaret his wife. Their children are Diana, Catharine, Teracey, Joseph, Mary, and Henry. Stepchildren are Frank and John. JOHN H. BRAMLGA, son of Herman H. Bramlga and Catherine his wife, was born July 6, 1849. He was raised a farmer and stock-raiser. His parents came to the county in 1832. June 6, 1875, he married Mary, daughter of Christian and Catherine Berger, who settled here in 1833. She was born November, 1855. Their children are John B. and Herman H. He has filled the office of school director and supervisor. JOHN W. BEAVER was born August 24, 1826. His parents were Isaac and Rachel Beaver, who settled in Shelby County in 1832. He is a blacksmith, and runs a sawmill. He married Lydia, (laughter of John G. and Mary Ann Shaffer, settlers here in 1832. She was born February 11, 1827. Their children are Isaac Newton, John George, Catharine, Sophie, Nancy, Elvira, Francis Marion, Charles Daniel Martin, Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, and Martha Jane. His ancestors, Christopher Beaver and Engle Bowyer, were Revolutionary officers in 1776. Isaac Beaver, his father, served in the war of 1812 at Norfolk, Bladensburg, Baltimore, and Washington. He himself was in Company I, 138th 0. N. G., Capt. James Huston, Col. S. S. Fisher, of Cincinnati, Ohio, Brigadier General Wetzel, &c. FREDERICK BRONS, son of Joseph and Nettie Brons, settled herc in 1837. He was born in 1837, and was a farmer. In 1859 he married his wife, Angel Brons. She was born in 1846. Their children are Joseph, Elizabeth, John, Bernard, Herman, Henry, and William. He filled the office of supervisor. Henry Brons served three years, and then became a veteran, and died in the service. John Brons, his father, was the first settler on section 2. ANDREW CLOWSON, son of Josiah and Sarah McGraw Clowson, was born March 30, 1825. He was a stock-raiser and farmer. He married Nancy, daughter of Oliver Jones. Their children are J eremiah, Laura, Mary, Jesse, Jane, Barnard, Levi, Anna Elizabeth, and John. He has filled the office of supervisor. His grandfather served in the war of 1812. WILLIAM DONCING, son of Frank and Margaret Doncing, was born December 12, 1831, in Hanover, Germany, and is a farmer and stock-raiser. In 1861 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Henry and Jane Gear. His wife was born in 1841. Their children are Henry, Bernard, Frank, and Mary. He has filled the offices of supervisor and school director. BERNARD DRESS, son of Tobias and Mary Drees, was born October 6, 1842, and was raised a farmer. On May 24, 1869, he married Josephine, daughter of Henry Appleman and Catherine his wife, who settled in this county in 1837. She was born April 3, 1851. Their children are Henry, Mary A., John, and Frederick. He has filled the offices of supervisor, school director, and clerk. He enlisted in 1862 in the 118th Regiment, Company O, Ohio Volunteers, and was discharged at Cleveland, July 20, 1865. BERNARD FRIEMERRING, son of Frank and Catharine Friemerring, was born December 8, 1831, and raised a farmer. October 13, 1854, he married Mary, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Powels, who was born in 1835. Their children are Frederick, Bernard, Joseph, Henry, and Elizabeth. He has filled the offices of school director and supervisor. Berhard Powels and Jerry Powels enlisted in the 58th Regiment (Company A) Ohio Volunteers. 242 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. JARVIS CIRCHER son of E. & M. Circher, was born in 1838 and raised a farmer. In 1868 he married Mary, daughter of Anthony and Margaret Schuler. She was born in 1839 and settled in this county in 1841. Their children are Frank, Anthony, Jacob Rhinehart Martin, and Bernard. HENRY J. DRESSMAN, son of H. H. and Catharine Dressman, was born June 14, 1856, and was raised as a clerk. He has served as constable. His father was born July 4, 1812, and was one of the first settlers of the town of Berlin. His mother was born July 31, 1818. HENRY FORTMAN, son of Richard and Mary Fortman, was born February 22, 1841, and raised a farmer and stock-raiser. In 1864 he married his wife, Elizabeth. They have three children, Henry, Elizabeth, and Lena. Mrs. Fortman died September, 1874. de has filled the office of school director. PHILIP FARLEY, son of Peter and Bridget Farley, was born in Ireland in 1832, and raised a farmer. In 1860 he married Mary A., daughter of Jeremiah and Catharine Cone. She was born in 1851. Their children are Peter F., James, Mary K., and Patrick He has filled the office of school director. He enlisted in 1863 in the 135th 0. V. I., and was discharged September 2, 1864. He owns 80 acres of land in section 2. JOHN FISHER, son of Christian A. and Mary Fisher, was born in Prussia February, 1824, and was raised a farmer and stock-raiser. In 1853 he married Christena, daughter of Henry Hulswaide. She was born in 1829. Their children are Mary E., Ferdinand, Bernard, Andrew, Henry, and Herman. He served in the German army three years. ENRY GUDORF, son of Garret H. and Mary C. L. Gudorf, was born April 10, 1837, settled here in 1849, and raised a farmer. June 1, 1865, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Bernard and Mary Vonderheige, who settled here in 1835. She was born October 15, 1847. He has filled the office of supervisor and school director. JOHN B. GAUSEPOHL, son of Charles and Agnes Gausepohl, was born Feb. 16, 1843, and raised a farmer and stock-raiser. June 15, 1867, he married Annie, daughter of Frank and Catharine Bargman, who settled in Auglaize County in 1833. She was born Nov. 20, 1847. He has filled the office of school director. Their children are Mary, Caroline, John, Frank, Henry, Julia, and Catharine. HENRY C. GUDENKAUF, son of Henry H. and Mary A. Gudenkauf, was born April 27, 1827, and raised a farmer. They settled in this county in 1833. On Feb. 22, 1851, he married Mary Catharine, daughter of Anthony and Mary E. Borhorst. She was born Nov. 15, 1833. Their children are Mary, Minnie, Denia, Catharine, Lucretia, Caroline, Clemence, Anthony, Mary, and Henry. He has filled the offices of supervisor, trustee, and school director. His father was one of the first settlers on section 4, in 1833. JACOB GAlER, son of Ferdinand Gaffer, was born January 6, 1841, and raised a farmer. June 25, 1866, he married Louisa, daughter of August Wise. She was born in 1839. They had two children, Margaret and Mary. He married his second wife in 1871, and has the following children : Charles, Louisa, Joseph, and Francis. FERDINAND GAIER, son of George and Josie Gaffer, was born October 9, 1811, and raised a farmer and stock-raiser. In 1845 he married Miss Siggel, daughter of George and Catharine Siggel, who was born Feb. 17, 1823. Their children are, Gatrot, Jacob, Caroline, Valentine, Charles,. Magdaline, Catharine, Elizabeth, Ferdinand, George, Joseph, and Herman. In 1845 he emigrated to America, and purchased eighty-five acres of land in Shelby County, Ohio. JOHN CLEMANS HILGEFORT, son of Dedrick and Margaret Hilgefort, was born October 26, 1837, and raised a farmer and settled here in 1848. July 3, 1859, he married Mary, daughter of Henry and Catharine Poppelmann, who settled here in ,1838. She was born in 1843. Their children are Mary, Joseph, Catharine, Josephine, Frederick, Bernard, Frank H., and Francis D. He has tilled the office of supervisor. PATRICK FARLEY, brother of Philip Farley, was born in 1823 and raised a farmer. In 1863 he married Catharine, daughter of Joseph Riley. She was born'in 1831. HENRY HENKA, son of Frederick and Rachel Henka, was born Oct. 12, 1834, and raised a farmer. April 30, 1857, he married Annie, daughter of August and Margaret Wise. She was born Feb. 23, 1839. Their children are, Henry, Frederick, Annie, Magdaline, Mary, John, Joseph, and Michael. He has been supervisor and trustee. JOHN BERNARD HOLSCHER, son of Francis J. and Clarissa Holscher, was born March 19, 1849, and raised a farmer and stock-raiser. His parents settled here in 1835. In 1877 he married Mary M., daughter of John and Elizabeth Bernard, whowas born March 14, 1858. They have two sons, John B. and John H. He has filled the offices of supervisor and school director. RICHARD HINNERS, son of Richard. and Mary Hinners, was born in 1837. He was raised a farmer. On May 5, 1806, he married Mary A., daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Duenigen. She was born Nov. 14, 1840. Their children are, Henry, John, Margaret, Herman, William, and Frank. He has filled the office of school director. CLEMANCE HOYING, son of Charles and Margaret Hoying, was born July, 1833. His parents settled here in 1834. He was raised a farmer. In October, 1857, he married Belledania, daughter of Frank and Mary C. Weller, who was born in 1831. Their children are, Charles, Henry, Anthony, Catharine, Joseph, Frederick, Clemance, Herman, and .Maggie. He has filled the offices of school director and supervisor. He was the first settler on section 5. FERDINAND HORSTMANN, son of Herman H. and Mary C. Horstmann, was born Oct. 4, 1827, and raised a farmer. In 1857 he married Mary Ann, daughter of Frank H. Schlarman and his wife, Mary C. She was born in 1834. Their children are, Herman H. and Josephine. THOMAS HICKEY, son of Dennis and A. Hickey, was born Jan. 25, 1826, in Ireland, and was raised on the farm. In 1855 he married Catharine, daughter of James and Bridget Fitzgibbons. She was born in 1826. He has been school director. He settled on section 2 in 1866. He assisted to build the C. 0. and C. Railroad in 1850. He owns 160 acres of well-improved land. BENJAMIN GREGORY INMAN, Physician and Surgeon, was born Aug. 11, A. D. 1826, near Pleasant Hill, Miami County, O., and spent his boyhood days in the cares of farm life. He is the son of Elder George Inman, who was one of the pioneers of Miami County, 0., having emigrated from South Carolina in 1814. He purchased section 14, in Newton Township, Miami County, and retained his original title up to the clay of his death, which occurred December 14, 1880. Dr. B. G. Inman received an early and liberal education, his father desiring him to enter the ministry (of which he was himself a prominent member of the Miami Christian Conference). The Doctor, however, choosing the medical profession, early began the study of the same under the instruction and guidance of Dr. Simmons, who was strictly allopathic in his views. The Doctor feeling a desire to widen the field of medical literature and research, accordingly entered the eclectic school of Philadelphia, and graduated with the highest honors of said school in 1851, and from that date has proved himself an efficient physician and close student, having canvassed nearly all the text-books of the different schools, viz., allopathic, hydropathic, homoeopathic, physomedical, and eclectic. He has one among the best chosen libraries of the Statc. The Doctor is temperate in his habits, liberal in his views, genteel genteel in his manners, Republican in politics, Protestant in religion, and fluent as a public speaker. Doctor Inman was married to Melissa Thuston in 1854. The result of this union is three sons and five daughters, all of whom are still living. Dr. Inman is permanently located at Berlin, Ohio, having moved from Pleasant Hill, Ohio, Jan. 25,1881, and from which date has received a liberal share of patronage. JOHN F. KNUVER, son of Philip and Mary Knuver, was born in the county, September 25, 184i, and is a farmer and stock-raiser. In November, 1870, he married Catharine, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Bender. Their children are Henry, Mary, Catharine, and Garrett. HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 243 STEPHEN KENNER, son of Joseph and Mary J. Kenner was born in Ohio, and raised as a miller. On May 22, 1867, he married Caroline, daughter of Bernard and Mary A. Mayer. The parents of both families settled here in 1838-39. Their children are Joseph B., John H, Mary A., and May E. He has been assessor, constable, and trustee. He enlisted August 16, 1862, in the 99th 0. V. I., Company H, under Capt. Wyman, and was discharged March 11, 1863. HERMAN KLOCKER, son of Herman H. and Annie M. Klocker, was born May 1, 1850, and raised a farmer. On May 6, 1875, he married Mary E., daughter of J. B. Rottinghaus; she was born March 11, 1851. Their children are Annie, Elizabeth, and John H. Herman H. Klocker (his father) enlisted August 2, 1864, in the 106th 0. V. I., Company D, and was discharged May 15, 1865. JOHN H. LOWMAN, son of John Lowman, was born January 1, 1835, and settled in this county in 1841. He served his time as a harness-maker. In 1857, he married Caroline, daughter of Frank and Dennis Leesing she was born in 1840. Their children are Henry, John, Joseph, Frank, William, Charles, Mary, and Catharine. He has been pike superintendent. John Lowman, his brother, served in the Mexican war. John Leesing served three years in the late war, and also John Wilbcring. BERNARD LEISNER, son of Herman and Margaret Leisner, was born in 1825, and raised a farmer. April 30, 1857, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Bernard Myer, who settled here in 1833; she was born in 1823. Their children are Elizabeth, Rosie, and Agnes. He has been school director and supervisor. HENRY MEYER, son of Lucas Meyer, was born November 15, 1847, and raised a farmer. He has been twice married. His first wife was Mary Case. His second wife was Annie Romie, daughter of Martin and Louisa Romie. They were married October 19, 1880. His parents settled here in 1836. HENRY H. MEYER, son of Bernard and Mary Meyer, was born August 20, 1841, and raised a farmer and stock-raiser. Aug. 20, 1869, he was. married to Mary, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Vintie; she was born July 3, 1850. Their children are Henry, Bernard, Joseph, and Frank. Bernard Meyer enlisted in 1863 for nine months. JOSEPH MEYER, son of Joseph and Elizabeth Meyer, was born in 1845, and was raised a farmer. In 1879 he married Catharine; daughter of Benjamin and Jane Hightman; she was born in 1861. They have one child named Joseph. FRANK OTTENG, son of Bernard and Mary Otteng, was born December 25, 1814, and raised a farmer. In 1857 he married Mary Elizabeth, daughter of H. H. Resonbeck and Anne M. his wife; she was born October 27, 1824. Her parents settled here in 1843. Their children are Dena., Mary, Anna, Elizabeth, Catharine, Agnes, and Henry. He has filled the offices of school director and church trustee. FRANK OTTENG, son of Frank and Mary E. Otteng, was born July 11, 1846, and raised a farmer. In 1876 he married Mary, daughter of Henry and Francis Naber. Their children are Mary E., Frank H., and Anne M. ISAAC POWELL, son of Peter and Elizabeth Powell, was born February, 1829, in Holland, and raised a farmer, and afterwards hotel-keeper. In 1860 he married Mary E., daughter of John and Mary Q. Stern. She was born May, 1842. Their children are John, Benjamin, Anne, Margaret, and Julia. Benard Powell served in the 58th Ohio Volunteers, and ''died at Mt. City General Hospital. Julian Powell served in the 58th Ohio Volunteers, and died in the hospital in Arkansas. Isaac Powell owns 108 acres of land. JOHN B. POPPERMAN, son of Henry and Mary Popperman, was born October, 1845, and raised a farmer. In May, 1871, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Henry and Mary Dressman, who was born in April, 1853. Their children are Mary, Joseph, Anna, and Catharine. He has been supervisor. Henry enlisted in the 118th O. V. I. April 15, 1863, and was discharged May 10, 1865. BERNARD PRENGER, son of Herman M. and Catharine Prenger, was born May 18, 1835, and raised a farmer. On May 18, 1858, he was married to Agnes, daughter of John H. and Mary A. Aihers; she was born December 8, 1840. Their children are John N., Clemance A., Mary E., Joseph, Tracey, Bernard, Antony, Elizabeth, and Catharine. He has filled the office of school director and supervisor. BERNARD PIENING, son of John B. and Annie M. Piening, was born April 22, 1843, and raised on a farm. May 13, 1865, he married Sophia, daughter of Christopher Bernhold and Angela his wife. Sophia was born in 1839. He filled the office of supervisor and school director. Enlisted in the war of 1861 in the 181st Regiment, Company A., 0. V. I., and was discharged in 1865. JOHN H. PELSTER, son of Garrot H. and Elizabeth Pelster, was born November 6, 1825, and raised as a farmer. In 1867 he married Catharine, daughter of H. and Maria Lange; she was born in 1839. Their children are Alenia, Mary, Henry, Elizabeth, Joseph, Bernard, and Catharine. He served three years in the German army. JOSEPH QUARTMAN, son of H. H. and Mary A. Quartman, was born September 28, 1831, and learned the blacksmith business. In 1854 he married Mary A., daughter of John Wesling and his wife Elizabeth. Mary A. was born November 1, 1834. He has filled the office of township trustee. James Quartman enlisted in 1862 in Company C, and discharged in 1865; and Bernard Drees in 1863 in the 118th 0. V. I., Company E, and discharged in 1865. J. H. QUARTMAN is the son of H. H. and Mary A. Quartman, born April 15, 1825, and keeps a grocery store and restaurant. In 1849 he married Margaret, daughter of Joseph Wenting and Anna his wife ; she was born November 20, 1831. They settled here in 1831. He has held the office of township treasurer. James Quartman and John Dreese, his half-brother, served in the Indiana Cavalry, Company H. Enlisted in 1861, and were discharged in 1865. HENRY ROOP, son of Tobias, born November 11, 1814, and Mary Roop, born March 8, 1822, was born February 9, 1842, and is a farmer and stock-raiser. On October 5, 1880, he married Melissa, daughter of James and Elizabeth Goodall, who was born February 18, 1857. His great-grandfather, John Cremell, was in the Revolutionary War. HENRY SCHLATER, son of Henry and Christine Schlater, was born December, 1840, and is a farmer. In 1866 he married Mary, daughter of Joseph and Clara Holscher, who was born May 21, 1845. He has been township trustee. He enlisted in 1862 in the 11.8th 0. V. I., Company C, and was discharged in 1865. JACOB SMITH, son of John J. and Margaret Smith, was born August 28, 1854, and is a farmer. On November 3, 1878, he married Jane, daughter bf Anthony and Margaret Schuler, who was born in 1848. Their children are Henry B. and John J. His father served three years and nine months in the German army.. FREDERICK SCHLATER, son of John H. and Christena Schlater, was born October 7, 1835, and was a farmer. His father settled here in 1835. On November 24, 1857, he married Tracia, daughter of Henry Holthaus and Anna Mary his wife. The daughter was born in 1838. Their children are Bernard, Mary, Elizabeth, John H., Mary A.., and Annie. HENRY SHERMAN, son of Joseph and Annie Sherman, was born April 13, 1826. He is a farmer. In October, 1858, he married his wife Barbara,. and they have had the following children: Joseph, Catharine, John, Jonisia, Jacob, Elizabeth, Andrew, Priscilla, Frederick, and Andrew. He served one year in the German army. EVERETT HENRY SMITHMYER, son of John H. and Godretta Smithmyer, was born in 1822, and is a farmer. In 1859 he married Catharine, daughter of Arnold P. Lechtran and Margaretta M. his wife. The daughter was born March, 1839. Their children are Herman 0., Frank, and Mary. He has been supervisor and school director. HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 245 JOHN B. ROTTINGHAUS, son of J. H. and Catharine Rottinghaus, was born November 12, 1812, and raised a farmer. On January 9, 1842, he married Elizabeth linter-brink, daughter of Henry Unterbrink, who was born June 7,1822. Their children are Elizabeth, Matilda, Anna, and John William. He has filled the office of justice of the peace for eighteen years, and township clerk. He was the first settler on section 5. He settled in this county in 1832; the Indians had just left, and were at Fort Wayne. J. H. ROTTINGHAUS, son of John F. and Elizabeth Rottinghaus, was born in 1843. In 1868 he was married to Agnes, daughter of Bernard and Mary A. Wiggernars, of Minster, Ohio. Their children are Rose, Emma, J. C.; and John F. Mr. R. has a grocery and provision store in Berlin, and is doing a good business; also a small farm in the township. By industry and economy he is now worth over fifteen thousand dollars. He has filled the office of justice of the peace eight years. JOHN H. SCHULZE, son of Christopher and Mary Schulze, was born in 1814, in Hanover, and is a farmer. In 1835 he married Mary A. Adeldarp, born in 1816. Their children are Elizabeth, Francis, Josephine, John Henry, and Leander. He has been assessor and school teacher for twenty years. When he settled in 1837 he had to go for his flour either to Sidney or Piqua, and there were only three cabins in Berlin. WILLIAM J. SHORT, son of George and Elizabeth Short, was born in Shelby County October 11,, 1841. He was married January 17, 1867, to Mary E., daughter of Jonathan Swallow. His wife was born January 14, 1844. He enlisted in August 22, 1862, in the 118th Regiment, Company C, 0. V. 1,, and was discharged January 24, 1865. His children are named Frank, John C., Anne B., Charles, and Mary. HENRY STRICKER, son of Henry and Elizabeth Stricker, was born November, 1831, and is a farmer. On November 1, 1854, he married Mary, daughter of Herman Boudwin and Caroline his wife. Elizabeth was born in 1840. Their children are Martin, Elizabeth, Henry, Bernard, John, Catharine, Mary, Anthony, and Godvolk. He has been supervisor and school director. JOHN G. SCHILMILLER was born May, 1804, raised a farmer, and, on November 16, 1844, married Wilhelmina, daughter of Oliver and Mary Diers. She was born May 28, 1822. Their children are Anna W.,. Frank H., Henry, Mary, John, Elizabeth, Francis, and Frederick. JOHN SOMMERS, son of John F. and Mary C. Sommers, was born September 25, 1840, and raised a farmer. On June 23, 1864, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph and Mary.A Garyvells, who was born August 15, 1844. Their children are Mary A., Mary C., Josephine, Anthony, Benedicia, Josephine, John F., and Lewis F. He was supervisor. Henry Recton served three years, and returned a veteran. SAMUEL SOMMERS, son of Joseph C. and Elizabeth Sommers, was born December 4, 1843, raised a farmer, and, on June 11, 1867, married Josephine, daughter of Bernard and Elizabeth Nagel. She was born in Germany in 1848. Their children are Rosa, Bernard W., William, Charles, and George. He held the office of supervisor. HENRY SOMMERS, son of Henry and Anna Sommers, was born October 11, 1841, and raised a farmer and stock-raiser. On February 25, 1866, he married Phillimenia,, daughter of John H. and Phillimenia Schillmiller. She was born in 1841. He was supervisor, and his father was one of the first settlers on section 3. JOSEPH RATERMAN is the son of J. B. H. and Maria Raterman, who came from Hanover to this township in the year 1834 and settled the land now owned by their son. Mr. Raterman died Sept. 23, 1873, while Mrs. Raterman survived him until June 16, 1874, when she too laid down the burden of life. Their son Joseph was born in this township Sept. 1, 1850, and has all his life been engaged in farming, to which pursuit hc recently added that of a grain dealer, and to this end has erected a warehouse at the village of Berlin. Here he is one of the most enterprising citizens. He is now one of the trustees of the township, and has also served as justice of the peacc. On the 4th of May, 1875, he married Maria Meier, who was born in this township Sept. 29, 1857. Four children are the fruits of this union, named respectively Henry (dec'd), Rosic, Tillie, and Charlie (dec'd). JOHN SHERMAN, son of William and Elizabeth Sherman, was born Sept. 19, 1827. They came to this county in 1836. He was raised a farmer. In 1852 he married Dinna, daughter of Anthony and Elizabeth Barhorst. She was born in 1836. Their children are, Hosea, Louisa, Bernard, Joseph, Annie, Sophie, Mary, Catharine, Dinna, and Johannie. Has been supervisor and township trustee. JOSEPH SHERMAN, son of John W. and Elizabeth Sherman, was born October 22, 1816, and brought up a farmer. His first wife was Elizabeth, daughter of Antony and Elizabeth Grear his second wife was Mary, daughter of John B. and Elizabeth Rotinhouer. Their children are, Joseph A., Catharine, Mary E., John B., Mary C., John H., Mary J., Mary M., Henry F. Has been supervisor four years, and township trustee six years. HENRY B. SHERMAN, son of John W. and Elizabeth Sherman, who settled in this county in 1835. He was born March 27, 1819, and raised a farmer. In 1845 he married Catharine, daughter of Francis and Mary C. Ernstes. She was born October 17, 1826. Has filled the office of justice of the peace nine ycars ; also, clerk, assessor, and land appraiser. JOHN TOLLER, son of Herman and Catharine Toiler, was born Oct. 4, 1821, brought up a farmer, and in May, 1844, married , ___ ____, who was born in 1819. Their children are, Herman, Christina, Catharine, Annie, Mary, Frank, and Cybela. Has been supervisor. JACOB ULLERMAN, son of Jacob and Mary Ullerman, was born in 1849, brought up a boot and shoemaker. On May 9, 1876, he married his first wife, Caroline, and after her decease, in clue time, his second wife, Margaret. Their children are, John Peter, Joseph George, and William Jacob. George Ullerman enlisted in 1861, and served three years and three months. JOSEPH B. VONDRELL, son of John H. and Elizabeth Vondrell, was born in 1834 and learned the trade of a carriage maker. In 1860 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Herman F. Klane and Bernedine his wife, who-came to live in this county in 1837. HERMAN H. VOCKE, son of H. H. Vocke and Elizabeth his wife, born October 20, 1854, and brought up as a farmer. On May 20, 1880, he married Mary, daughter of John Stegerrnann. She was born Feb. 19, 1859, He filled the offices of supervisor and school teacher. JOHN WALKUP, son of Thomas and Elizabeth Walkup, who settled here in 1835, was born March 2, 1831, in Ireland, and was brought up a farmer. On April 3, 1856, he married Mary, daughter of Isaac and Jane Edwards. She was born Nov. 27, 1834. Their children are, Thomas, Joseph, William, Margaret, Nancy, and John. He has held the offices of justice of the peace, trustee, and county commissioner. Thomas Edwards, his wife's grandfather, served through the Revolutionary war and that of 1812, and died in his ninety-fourth year. Thomas Walkup (John's brother), through the war of 1861. Thomas Edwards, his wife's brother, three years, and became a veteran, and died at the hospital of Chattanooga. Newton Edwards from April, 1861. He was first lieutenant of Company E, 40th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded at the battle of Chickamauga. Jacob Edwards also enlisted April, 1861, and was in the service until he was taken prisoner and confined in the Andersonville prison five months. He was then released, started for home, and was lost on the steamer Sultana. FREDERICK WACHSMUTH, son of John D. and Gerdrata Wachsmuth, was born March, 1823, in Germany. He was a farmer. In 1853 he married Mary Timmans, daughter of H. H. and Mary A. Timmans. Their children are, Elizabeth, Sophie, and Henry. Has filled the offices of school director and supervisor. HENRY WATTERKUTTER was the son of Ferdinand and Elizabeth Watterkutter, and was born July 17, 1841. His parents settled in Sheihy County in 1830. On Nov. 27, 1867, he Married Caroline, daughter of Henry and Catharine Loman, who was born in 1851. Their children are, Frank, Elizabeth, Henry, Mary, and Josephine. His father settled section 20 in 1830, and was the first settler on that section, where he lived until his death, Feb. 29, 1876. PHILIP ANTONEY, son of John Antoney, was born in Auglaize County in 1840, and married Tracey, daughter of John Schwartz, in 1867. She was born in 1850. Their children are, John, Tracey, Elizabeth, and Emma. He enlisted in 1861 in the 118th Regiment, Company C. 246 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. CYNTHIAN TOWNSHIP is one of the west tier of townships in the county. It is bounded on the north by McLean, on the east by Turtle Creek, on the south by Loramie, and on the west, by Parke County. It is oblong in form, being- eight miles east and west, and four miles north and south, containing thirty-two sections. Surface. The surface of this township is more rolling than that of any other in the county. Along the streams it is considerably broken. Drainage. The drainage is to the south. Loramie Creek crosses nearly central from north to south. It has as its tributaries from the west Buffalo Run, Lawrence Creek, and Salt Lick. The Miami and Erie Canal also crosses the township close to and parallel with the Loramie. Its water flows north. Great and South Panther Creeks empty into it from the east. Soil. The soil throughout a great portion of the township is clay, and in some parts rather thin, while in other sections, particularly along the streams, it is sandy or a black alluvian. Some excellent beds of gravel are found here, which are being used for road purposes. The Organization and Settlement. Originally the township belonged to Loramie, but was detached in 1822. The following is the record of the metes and bounds as given by the commissioners' journal of that year: Beginning at the west line of the county between townships 10 and 11, range 4 east;. thence east to the west line of Turtle Creek Township; thence north to the county line ; thence west to the northwest corner of the county; thence south to the place of beginning. The first election was ordered to be held at the house of Alexander Miller on the 4th day of July, 1822. Early Settlement. The first settlement made within the present limits of the township was made in the year 1815. There were three families known to have been located here that year, but which one came first we cannot learn. These three were Thomas Butt, John Wise, and Conrad Pouches, and their families. These were soon followed by Leonard and Tobias Dan- ner, Zachariah Hurley, Samuel and Benjamin Leighty, Henry Hershaw, Jacob Seerfauss, John and Alexander Miller, and perhaps a few others. The following is a complete list of those known to be here in 1824: Thomas Butt, John Barker, Leonard and Tobias Danner, John Gates, C. Stoker, 'William Hicks, George Harman, Zachariah Hurley, William Jerome, Charles Lovell, Benjamin and Samuel Leighty, George Moyer, John and Alexander Miller, Conrad Pouches, Jacob Seerfauss, Jacob, John, and Andrew Wise, Robert Steen, John Border, Robert Chambers, and J. Shagley. It will be remembered that the township at this time embraced all the territory within the county that lay north of the present limits of Cynthian Township. The first frame house was built by Josias Reaser, but was sold to and occupied by Cyrus Reese. This was within the present site of Newport. The first brick house was built by George Butt. The first sawmill was erected by Conrad Pouches. The first tannery was by Stephen Blanchard. The first blacksmith was William Mills. The first school-house was on the land of Jacob Wise, and the first school was taught by Robert Gibson. This was in the year 1816 or 1817. The first religious society formed was a U. B. at the house of Henry Hershaw. Official Record. The following is as complete a record of the township officers from its organization to the present time as can be gotten from the records in existence, giving names and date of election :- Trustees: 1822, Leonard Danner, Alexander Miller, Robert Chambers. 1823, Thomas Butt, Zachariah Hurley, Cornelius Stoker. 1824, Aaron Hicks, William Jerome, Jacob Shagley. 1825, Aaron Hicks, William Jerome, Leonard Danner. 1826, Samuel Leighty, William Jerome, Leonard Danner. 1827, Thomas Butt, Zachariah Hurley, C. Stoker. 1828, Thomas Butt, Joseph Mills, Tim Greene. 1841, Isaac Short, Henry Wolhaver, J. Thwaits. 1842, Isaac Short, Henry Wolhaver, J. Thwaits. 1843, Josiah Clawson, Henry Wolhaver, Isaac Short. 1844, Josiah Clawson, Stephen Blanchard, Isaac Short. 1845, Josiah Clawson, Jacob Nishwitz, Isaac Short. 1846, Thomas Wauchob, Jacob Nishwitz, Isaac Short. 1847, Jacob Wright, Jacob Nishwitz, Isaac Short. 1848, .lames Miller, John F. Mann, Philip Hoffman. 1849, Samuel Penrod, John F. Mann, Francis Erwin. 1850, Isaac Short, Jacob Nishwitz, George Butt. 1851, James R. Johnston, John Link, Jacob Nokes. 1852, Isaac Short, Garret Clawson, Henry Wolhaver. 1853, Isaac Short, J. S. Chrisman, Thomas Costolo. 1854, Isaac Short, Reuben Luckey, Thomas Costolo. 1855, Isaac Short, Reuben Luckey, Henry Wolhaver. 1856, Isaac Short, James Miller, G. W. Lemming. 1857, Amos Maxon, James Miller, George Barker. 1858, Peter Layripe, James Miller, Henry Wolhaver. 1859, Peter Layripe, James Miller, Henry Wolhaver. 1860, M. Merrick, James M. Pilliod, R. Luckey. 1861, S. Stoudt, William Hale, G. W. Lemming. 1862, S. Stoudt, William Hale, G. W. Lemming. 1863, R. Luckey, John I. Rowe, M. Merrick. 1864, J. B. Snow, C. Short, M. Merrick. 1865, Isaac Short, E. Frosard, William Hale. 1866, J. C. Akerman, J. J. Rowe, William Hale. 1867, J. B. Snow, J. J. Rowe, William Hale. 1868, J. E. Emert, George Butt, R. Luckey. 1869, J. E. Emert, George Butt, R. Luckey. 1871, J. E. Emert, Jacob Sweigart, A. H. Luckey. 1879, Job Kay, Francis Turner, August Mills. 1880, R. Luckey, Joseph Marshall, August Mills. 1881, Job Kay, R. Luckey, John Swob. 1882, Joseph Mougie, Daniel Killian, A. Mills. 1883, John C. Swob, Jacob Bows, Samuel Schwartz. Clerks: 1822, Robert Steen. 1823, Charles Lovell. 1824, John Gates. 1825, John Gates. 1826, Z. Hurley. 1827, D. C. Flinn. 1828. Z. Hurley. 1841 and 1842, James Curry. 1843, Francis Erwin. 1844, James Curry. 1845 and 1846, D. Skillen. 1847, Francis Pilliod. 1848, William Skillen. 1849 and 1850, W. Skillen. 1851, S. M. Stephenson. 1852 to 1854, William Skillen. 1857 to 1864, E. Pilliod. 1865, C. Short. 1866, E. Pilliod. 1867 and 1868, Samuel Schwartz. 1869 and 1871, J. Foust. 1879, W. H. Leighty. 1880, Julius Foust. 1881, J. F. Ecabert. 1882, J. F. Ecabert and L. P. Brandon. 1883, L. P. Brandon. Treasurers: 1822, Thomas Butt. 1823, John Border. 1824, 'Thomas Butt. 1825, William Mills. 1826, John Miller. 1828, John Miller. 1842 to 1846, Peter Wright. 1847, John Miller. 1848 to 1861, Francis Pilliod. 1862 to 1864, P. Layripe. 1865, John Hale. 1866 to 1868, E. Frosard. 1869 to 1871, J. Hale. 1879 and 1880, Peter Goffena. 1881, G. F. Schauffer. 1882, F. Pilliod. 1883, August Miller. Justices of the Peace. Michael Penrod, Aug. 29, 1835. John Miller, April 28, 1837. George Hale, Aug. 13, 1838. John Miller, April 16, 1840. Isaac Short, Aug. 24, 1841. John Miller, April 11, 1843. G. G. Murphy, Sept. 5, 1844. Josiah Clawson, April 23, 1846. H. Gloyd, Aug. 7, 1847. G. G. Murphy, Aug. 7, 1847. John Miller, July 22, 1848. Harry Gloyd, Aug. 2, 1853. W. W. Skillen, April 14, 1854. James R. Johnston, April 14, 1855. Isaac Short, April 16, 1858. J. S. Chrisman, Aug. 2, 1859. Isaac Short, April 22, 1861. Eugene Pilliod, Sept. 5, 1862. Isaac Short, April 23, 1864. Eugene Pilliod, Oct. 17, 1865. M. Merrick, April 6, 1867. Isaac Short, Oct. 21, 1868. George Barker, Nov. 10, 1869. Eugene Pilliod, Jan. 12, 1871. Charles Mann, Oct. 18, 1871. Edward Huston, Jan. 6, 1874. Charles Mann, Oct. 18, 1874. Edward Huston, Jan. 4, 1877. N. W. Mills, July 6, 1877. A. H. Leckey, Oct. 19, 1877. Julius Foust, July 6, 1880. Francis Turner, Oct. 20, 1880. NORTH PORT. (Incorporated into Newport (?).) This town was located on the west half of northeast quarter of section 30, town. 10, range 5 east, and was surveyed June 4, 1839, for Richard Short, proprietor. The lots were each four by ten rods, except fractions. Main Street was four rods wide, and occupied the Piqua and St. Mary's road line, bearing north 130 east; North, Elm, and South Streets each two rods wide, and run at right angles to Main Street. The alleys were each one rod wide. The plat contained twenty lots. Was certified January 4, acknowledged January 5, and recorded January 7, 1839. NEWPORT is situated on the Miami and Erie Canal in section 30. It was surveyed and platted in 1839 by Jonathan Counts for Nicholas Wynant, after whom the post-office is named. The village contains about 350 inhabitants. The first dwelling erected was used as a hotel by Cyrus Reese, on the lot now occupied by Dr. B. F. Foust. The second house was by Cyrus Reese, for a grocery. The first store was owned by the Pilliod Bros., the first shoe-shop by C. Belt. The first blacksmith was John Link. The first steam saw and grist mill by E. Pilliod. The town at the present time has two general stores, one hotel, three saloons, one grain warehouse, one flax mill, one blacksmith shop, one cabinet shop, two churches, one school-house, and three physicians. CYNTHIAN. This town was laid out for Haes & Hagamein and Alexander Miller September 14, 1819, and was located at the Loramie crossing in section 30, town. 10, range 5 east, and was on the farm now owned by Henry Sweigart, just south of Newport. Although the town was platted, surveyed, and recorded, and a number of lots sold, it never arose to the distinction of a town or village. In 1825 William Mills bought the lands 248 - HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO. adjacent to it, and shortly afterward bought the lots and attached them to his farm, since which time the old town of Cynthian has become extinct, except in name. BASINBURG. The town was located in northwcst quarter of section 18, town. 10, range 5 east, and was laid out by Herman Mier. Lot 65 was donated to the citizens for the purpose of erecting a church for the use of all religious denominations. Main Street was run north at a variation of 5̊ west of magnetic bearing, and at right angles to the south line of aforesaid quarter section. All other courses given at same variation. All other streets and alleys are either parallel with or at right angles to Main Street. Main and Canal Streets are earls four rods wide. Basin, Water, and East Streets are each two rods wide. All alleys and South Lane each one rod wide. All lots four by eight rods, except fractions. Main Street occupied Piqua and Saint Mary's road. The plat shows 65 lots, was certified February 14, acknowledged the 15th, and recorded thc 20th, 1839. CHURCHES. Methodist Episcopal Church. The nucleus of the M. E. Church of Newport was a Sabbath-school started in 1872 through the efforts of Dr. Reaner, Mrs. Henry Sweigart and daughter. Mrs. Sweigart had been reared in the Methodist Church. When she first came to Newport in the fall of 1870 she found no Protestant society or Sabbath-school of any kind. She determined that she would at least make an effort to start a Sabbath-school. Through the effort of her daughter they secured from the directors of the school the use of the school-house. Accordingly on the following Sabbath eight persons met together and organized, with Dr. Reaner as superintendent. The following Sabbath there were thirty present, which in a short time increased to one hundred and thirty. Among these there were a number from Catholic families. They determined to have a Sabbath-school celebration on the 4th of July following. This cclebration proved a success, and was one of the largest ever held in the county. Two Methodist ministers, by the names of Rauch and Long, hearing of the demonstration, attended it, and seeing the interest taken in the community, they offered to come and preach for the people, if they would find them a preaching place. Mr. Sweigart told them he would fix seats in his door yard, which he did, and the following Sabbath Mr. Long preached for them under the shelter of shade trees in Mr. Sweigart's door yard. Again the little Sweigart girl came to their relief. She a second time went to the school directors for the use of the house. Two of the members of the board were Catholics. They afterward said that the girl had pleaded so earnestly and pleasantly that they could not refuse her. The first steps takeh for the erection of a church were in the fall of 1872. A subscription was started. The Rev. Rauch, who was preaching for them, offered to give the half of his salary toward the new church. In the spring of 1873 they commenced its erection. It was completed and dedicated in September, 1873. It was dedicated by the Rev. Wesley G. Waters. The structure is of brick, and is 34 by 48 feet, at a cost of $2200. The members who constituted the first class were Dr. Reaner and wife, Mrs. H. Sweigart, Catharine and Emma Sweigart. There is a present membership of forty. The following pastors have been over the congregation : Reuben Ranch, in 1872; P. P. Pope, in '1873 ; Wm. Dunlap, 1874 and 1875 ; J. R. Colgan, 1876 ; J. Armand, 1877; B. W. Day, 1878 ; — Oldfield, 1879 ; D. B. Rhinehart, 1880 to 1882 ; George Mailers, 1883. Cynthian Christian Church was organized in 1833 by Caleb Worley at the home of Samuel Penrod. The first members, were Samuel Penrod and wife, Isaac Short and wife, Isaac Mann, George Butt and wife, and Samuel Butt and wife. The meetings for a number of years were held in a log school-house and in private houses. In 1851 they built a frame church on Panther Run, at what is now known as Orin .P. 0. This church is still used as a place of worship. The ministers who have been over the congregation were Caleb Worley, James Fahnestock, John B. Robertson, Hallet Barber, Snow Richardson, J. T. Hunt, Asbury Watkins, Matthew Jones, and Albert Long. Tile society at the present time consists of about one hundred members. There is a Sabbath-school connected with the society which is kept up during the summer season. The Loramie German Baptist Church. The first meeting held by this denomination in Cynthian was in 1848, the time when John Hollinger came to the township. They held their services in private houses and in the Christian Church for a number of years. In 1865 there were a number of other brethren moved in, and the following year (1866) they erected a church, which was dedicated by Elder Sand Mohler, of Covington, Ohio, that same year. The society was known as The North Branch of the Covington Society until 1877, when they were formed into a congregation by themselves and elected their own minister. Jacob Hollinger was elected to fill the office of minister, which .he has filled since that time. He also fills the office of Bishop of Loramie District. The present membership of the society is about seventy-five. Newport Flax Mill. This institution was established in 1881 by O. O. Mathers, of Sidney, and is supplied with one set of machinery, employing ten workmen. During the first year of operation about four hundred tons of straw were handled and worked up in the :manufacture of green tow. The building is frame, 80 by 40 feet, and one story in height. The engine-room is constructed of brick. The mill is operated in connection with the Sidney Flax Mill, also owned and operated by Mr. Mathers, the president of the Sidney Agricultural Company. BIOGRAPHIES. ELIPHALET BLANCHARD. The Blanchards are of French extraction ; they came to America early in the seventeenth century and settled in Andover, Mass. We would be glad to trace this family in a chronological manner down to the present, but we are compelled to skip several generations and come down to thc eighteenth century, to the person of Stephen Blanchard, the grandfather of the Shelby County Blanchards. The date otitis birth we cannot learn, but we know that he was at the battle of Bunker Hill. He was married to Lucy Adams. They had a son Stephen, who was the father of Eliphalet. He was born in New Hampshire in the year 1784. He married Christiana Penny in 1807 (whose father also was at the battle of Bunker Hill). She was born in the State of Maine in 1788. They emigrated to Ohio in 1818 and located in Butler County, where they remained until 1823, when thcy moved to Warren County, lived there until 1832, when they came to Shelby County and located in Loramie Township, remaining there until. 1837, when he bought some wild land in Cynthian Township and moved on to it. The family at this time consisted of Christian, Eliphalet, Lucy, Sarah, Rachel, and John. Two of the older children (Abigail and Stephen) had married and left home: Mr. Blanthard died Nov. 1856. His wife died Feb. 1873. Eliphalet, the third son, was born in Butler County in 1821 ; came with his parents to Shelby County in 1832. He was reared on the farm and educated in the primitive schools of his day. He was the main help of his father in clearing his farm, and did not have the advantage of schools that the children of the present day have. In 1846 he married Miss Mary J. Penrod, a daughter of Samuel and Rachel (Chambers) Penrod. By this union they bad born to them four children, viz., Almira, born Jan. 25, 1847 ; Rachel, born Nov. 16, .1855; Ira, born April 8, 1859, and John, born Oct. 10, 1862. Mr. Blanchard' is now the owner of the old homestead, beside other lands he has since purchased, making in all some 280 acres in section 33. He is one of the most theoretical as well as practical farmers in the county. He makes agrictilture a study, and believes that whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well ; as a result, success has crowned his efforts. HARRISON CROMER. The Cromers, as far back as we can learn of them, are from Kentucky. Abraham Cromer, with his family, came from Kentucky to Miami, Ohio, some time prior to the war of 1812. He served as a soldier in that war, and was one of the party who found and cared for Dilbone and Girard at their massacre by Indians in 1813. He died near this place. His wife, Hannah Cromer, died 'about 1876, aged ninety-eight years. Elnathan, a son of the above, was born in Kentucky in the year 1808, was brought by his parents to Miami County when a small child, and has lived there from that time to the present. He married Sarah Cavault in 1832. They raised a family of nine children. Harrison Cromer, of this township, was born in Miami County in 1834. He is the eldest son of Elnathan Cromer. He is a farmer, and has made that his business through life. In 1856 he married Phebe A. Gaskill, of Miami County. They have seven children, viz., Laura P., William IL, Thomas H., Mary A., Elnathan E., John M., and Anna M. In 1868 he bought a farm in this township, to which he moved his family. His farm is among the best improved ones of the township. He has erected upon it fine buildings and improvements, all of which have been made by his own industry, never having inherited anything. JOSEPH HUGHS was born in the State of New Jersey in the year 1800. His parents were from England. They came to Ohio in 1802, before it became a State, and settled in Greene County. He lived here to grow up to manhood. In 1821 he married Hannah Clark. She died in 1822, leaving no children. In 1824 he married Susan T. Dorsey, with whom he had two children ; both died. She died in 1828. In 1832 he married Mary Raines. By this marriage there were nine children born. His third wife died in 1847. In 1848 he married Catharine Brenner. With her he lived until 1870, when she died. In 1874 he married his fifth wife, Mrs. Nancy McLellen, widow of James McLellen and daughter of Frederick Christman. Mr. Hughs made his first settlement in Shelby County in 182 with his first wife, but after her death he left the county and did not return until 1846. HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY, OHIO - 249 REV. SAMUEL PENROD was born in the State of Pennsylvania in the year 1800. His father had died when he was quite young. About the year 1812 his mother, with her family, emigrated to Montgomery County, Ohio. Here, as a boy, he took some part in the struggle of the war of 1.812. At the age of 22 years he married Miss Rachel Chambers, of the same county. With empty but willing hands they commenced the battle of life together. The first start Mr. P. got was by taking contracts and working on the canal near Miamisburg; With the money he saved he came to the wilds of Cynthian Township and entered land. In the year 1832 he brought his family and settled on apiece of land he afterward bought in section 29, where he lived until the time of his death in 1879. They reared a family of. seven children. Mrs. Penrod died in 1867. These children are all still living in the county, except William C., who died from the effects of wounds received at the battle of Murfreesborough. When Mr. Penrod's family first cane to the township there were no religious meetings in the neighborhood. Mrs. Penrod spent her first Sabbath in the woods shedding tears because she had no place to attend worship. The men in the neighborhood took their rifles and went hunting on the Sabbath instead of meeting for worship. Mr. Penrod felt that the good of the community demanded that they should spend the Sabbath in a more sacred way than by hunting and sporting. Accordingly on Monday morning he interviewed some of his neighbors with regard to holding prayer meetings on the Sabbath day. To this they all agreed. Accordingly they met at the home of John Gearhart the following Sabbath. From this beginning, meetings for worship have been held in that neighborhood ever since. They had no minister to preach to them ; Mr. Penrod would talk to the people by way of exhortation. He soon began to preach, and was in 1837 regularly ordained as a minister in the Christian Church. He filled the office of a minister from that time to the time of his death, and when he passed away he died with an assurance of an immortal life. GEORGE CYPHERS. The Cyphers are of German extraction, but we can only trace them back to Maryland. John Cyphers, the grandfather of the above, came to Ohio before the war of 1812, and served as a soldier in that struggle ; also in the Mexican war. He died in Sheihy County in 1872. Philip Cyphers, his son, and father of George, came to Shelby County in 1857, and is at present a. resident of Orange Township. George was born in Montgomery County. in 1846, and married Mary Dunn, a daughter of John and Susannah (Rasor) Dunn, in 1870. They have three children, Lenta D., Carrie E., and Addie T. Mrs. Cyphers' parents were among the early settlers of Shelby County. They were located in Orange Township, where they both died. FRANCIS TURNER, Esq. Henry F. Turner, the father of Francis, was born in Hanover in the year 1805, and married Mary M. Nelker in 1841. They came to the United States the same year, and located in Delaware County, Ohio. He was a farmer by occupation. In 1853 they removed to Shelby County, where he died in 1858. His widow still survives. She was born in 184: They had born to them two children, Elizabeth and Francis. The latter was born in Delaware County in 1844. In 1865 he married Miss Mary A. Goffena, a daughter of Peter and Anna (Smith) Goffena. They have reared a family of six children, viz., Peter F., Mary E., Mary A., Frances N., Tracy M., and Caroline M. In 1867 Esquire Turner bought a farm in this township, where he now resides. He has served as trustee of his township, and at the present time is justice of the peace. HUGH WILEY. The Wileys are of Irish descent, but the first that we learn of them was in Pennsylvania, where Hugh Wiley, the grandfather, was born, and served as a soldier in the Revolutionary War. He married and reared a family of five children. Hugh, the second, one of his sons, was born in Pennsylvania in 1777, and married Isabella McKee about 1807. Their family consisted of three children. They emigrated to Harrison County, Ohio, in 1812, and remained there until 1818, when they removed to Perry County, where he spent the remainder of his days. He died in 1855. His wife died the same year. Hugh Wiley, third, his only son, was born in Pennsylvania in 1812. He received a liberal education, having studied the languages. He followed teaching for a number of years, but made farming his principal business. In 1857 he married Rebecca Baird, a daughter of Alexander and Rebecca (Huston) Baird. By this union they have five children, viz., Martha A., James A., John T., Joseph W., and Hannah R. The ancestors of Mrs. Wiley are from Ireland. Her mother was born in Ireland. They located in Perry County, Ohio, in 1806, and remained there until they died. Her father was born in Pennsylvania in 1797, and died in 1881.. Her mother died in 1819. Mr. and Mrs.. Wiley settled in Cynthian in 1866. ANDREW PEQUIGNOT. Tannis Pequignot, the father of Andrew, was born in France in 1787. When a young man he was drafted into the Napoleonic army and served seven years as a private soldier: He was wounded in battle. He was with Napoleon at the battle of Waterloo. After his return home from the army he married Frances Grizza, about 1813. They reared a family of five children. They emigrated to the United States in 1831 and first located in Stark County, Ohio, lived there three years, then removed to Darke County, where he died in 1876. His wife died. in 1861. Andrew, his son, was born in France in 1825, lived with his parents until twenty-one years of age. In 1818 he married Mary Maldena, who also was born in France. In 1857 they moved on to a piece of wild land in this township. When he settled on his land there was not a stick cut. They moved into their cabin without a roof. Although there had been settlements made in the township years before he came, yet this part of the township was an unbroken forest with plenty of wild deer and other game. They have reared a family of six children, whose names are as follows: John, Josephine, Andrew, Frank, August, and Alice. DAVID DUNLAP. David Dunlap, Sr., was born in Ireland in 1780. When twenty years of age he came to the United States to seek a home. He located in Lancaster County, Pa. Here he married Mary Sharp in 1807. They lived on a farm as laborers and continued as laborers on the same farm as long as they lived. One of his sons succeeded him as a tenant and resides there at the present time, so that some of the family have resided as tenants on this farm for over seventy years. The father died in 1865. His wife died in 1863. David Dudley, Jr, a son of the above, was born in Pennsylvania in 1821. In 1849 he married Mary A. Lemon, of Lancaster, Pa., and the same year came to Montgomery County, Ohio, where he lived one year, then came to a wild piece of land in this township. Here he built himself a hewed log house, and commenced his present home. There were born to him by this marriage threc children, viz., Jacob D., Mary C., and William W., both sons now dead. His wife died in 1861. In 1866 he married for his second wife Elizabeth Wolf. By this marriage there was one child, Emma E. His second wife died in 1878. Death has visited his home not less than six different times. He has buried from his house two wives, two sons, a brother, and his mother-in-law. Although his past has been clouded by affliction, may his future be bright with the sunshine of 'hope, THE PILLIOD FAMILY. JAMES M. PILLIOD, the head of the family, who came to the United States, was born in France in 1787. He was one of two brothers, and was early educated for the priesthood, but as he was about to enter upon his duties as a priest, he learned that his brother had been drafted into the army of Napoleon. Believing it to be his duty to take the place of his brother, who was the only support of his widowed mother, he determined to sacrifice his own personal ambition and pleasure, and serve his country in his brother's stead. The clergy tried to persuade him against this, and offered to furnish a substitute to fill his brother's place. He replied to them : "I love Napoleon, 1 love France, and I will go myself." He accordingly entered the army as a quartermaster of a dragoon regiment, in which capacity he served for seven long years. He was frequently offered promotions in other regiments, hut he declined, preferring to remain with his own regiment and boys. He was with his beloved commander in his defeat at Waterloo. He was wounded seven times hi battle, once severely in the neck, and once in the abdomen, so that his bowels protruded, but with all this he lived to .get home again, after giving seven years of his life to his country. He was discharged in 1814. After returning home he followed teaching school for several years. was crippled in one arm, so that he could not perform manual labor. In 1815 he married Mary Bony, a daughter of the mayor of his town. After several years he applied to the government for a pension for wounds received in the army, but on account of his love for Napoleon and his former government, Louis Philippe would not grant it. After several years of effort in trying to get his rights as a citizen of France, and failing, he became disgusted with the government, and determined to leave his native land and come to the United States. Accordingly; in 1827 he, with his wife and six children, set sail for the " land of equal rights." They landed in New York, and immediately came on to Stark County, Ohio, where they remained until 1836, when they removed to this county, and located in McLean Township. They lived there until 1r58, when they came to Newport. Mr. Pilliod was one of the large landholders of the county, owning at one time over 4000 acres of land in Shelby, Darke, and Mercer counties. They had born to them three children after they came to the United States, making in all nine, all of whom became men and women. The seven first-born were sons, the lass two daughters. After fifty-two years of married life, this aged couple, together with their seven sons and two daughters, had a reunion in the city of Toledo, where they were represented by four generations. Father Pilliod departed this life April 1, 1877. His wife died April 26, 1873.