TWINSBURG TOWNSHIP- 1039
TWINSBURG TOWNSHIP.
ETHAN ALLING, deceased, whose portrait appears in this work, was born in North Milford, Conn., Aug. 13, 1800, and was a son of Lewis and Elizabeth (Clark) Ailing. His education was received by a limited attendance at the schools of his neighborhood. In 1814, he entered the grocery store of Loomis & Johnson, in New Haven, where he remained two years, when the firm failed. In March, 1817, he came to Ohio with three hired men for the purpose of improving some land his father had bought in Twinsburg Township, and in Tract 3. They at once commenced preparations for building, Mr. Ailing thus becoming the first actual white settler in the town. In July, his father and mother arrived and became settlers. They both died in September, 1823. The subject was married, April 24. 1824. to Miss Eliza Blackman, of Bridgeport, Conn., who is yet living, and is now (1881) in her 80th year. Mr. Ailing opened a tavern in Twinsburg in December, 1826, a business he continued for a number of years. He was appointed Postmaster in October, 1827, and, in 1831, he commenced the mercantile business, and, in 1835, built a storehouse, in which he long did a good business, and was finally succeeded by his two eldest sons, Francis and Hoadly, who carried on the business until their death. Mr. Ailing retired from business, and, during the latter years of his life, lived upon the old homestead; he died April 22, 1867. He was an active and energetic business man, liberal in his support of churches and charitable objects, and in public enterprises a leader. By his marriage there were five children, but one of whom is now living, viz., E. L. Mrs. Ailing
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has lived on the old homestead since her husband's death.
MRS. SARAH C. BENNETT, farming; P. O. Twinsburg; was born in Orange Township, Cuyahoga Co., May 14, 1838, to Almon and Henrietta (Squires) Smith, natives of Connecticut, to whom were also born Almon S., Asher V., Susan H., Orange V., Orville and Lyman. Henrietta was a daughter of Morehouse, whose wife was a Mead. Henrietta came to Mahoning Co. about the year 1820, and moved to Orange, Cuyahoga Co., in 1822; her husband died in Orange in 1849. Mrs. Bennett was married, Jan. 27, 1858, to Elam Bennett, whose name she now bears; he was born in this township, on the farm which she now owns; his parents were Henry and Fannie (Streeter) Bennett, natives of the Eastern States. Henry Bennett was one of the early settlers in this township ; he had three sons—Cyrus, Henry S. and Elam. Mr. Bennett's life was spent on the farm on which he settled. He was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He and his wife were members of the M. E. Church. He died Oct. 14, 1873, and she in May, 1878. Mrs. Sarah Bennett lived happily with her husband until his death, which occurred Sept. 8, 18 71. Since his demise, she has remained on their farm of 175 acres, with her three sons, Almon C., Delos H. and Otis.
REV. SAMUEL BISSELL, educator, Twinsburg. The ancestors of the above were of English descent, and the family trace them to one John Bissell. who left Somersetshire in 1628, landing in Plymouth in the same year, and, in company with others, went overland to Windsor, on the Connecticut River, where he settled, and from him have sprung a numerous family. Here was born Israel Bissell, who was the grandfather of our subject; he entered the Colonial army, and died of camp distemper, at the age of 45; the same fate came to the grandfather on Samuel's mother's side. Israel Bissell had three sons and four daughters, viz.: Israel, Justus and Robert; Eunice, Roxana, Prudence and Anna. Robert had three sons and two daughters, viz.: Samuel, Roswell and David; Laura and Bianca. Samuel was born April 28, 1797, in Middlefield, Mass.; he came West with his parents to Ohio in 1806, and settled in Aurora, now Portage Co., which was at that time on the verge of the " Far West." Here his father settled and raised his family amid the wild scenes of that period. No schools existed here at this time, except those of privation and hard labor. Up to the year 1816, Samuel assisted his father in clearing up their forest home. Having a burning desire for an education, and, in the absence of proper schools, he began a systematic course of study, including the classical, and fitted himself for college, and graduated in Yale in 1823; two ! years later, in New Preston, Conn., he was licensed to preach, and returned to Aurora, where he engaged in teaching a select school, and, shortly afterward, took charge of a small I Congregational Church society at Twinsburg, then in a weak and feeble condition, and ministered to their spiritual wants for about four! teen years; the society, in the meantime, grew and prospered. About this time, he gave up his pastorate and resumed teaching, and es tablished the well-known Twinsburg Institute, a description of which the reader will find in the history of the township in this volume. Since that time, he devoted himself to teaching, having had charge of this institute for fifty-two years, during which time more than 6,000 students of both sexes have been under his instruction; among this number were 201) Indians. from five different tribes, some of whom have surpassed in scholarship any of the white youth in the institution. It may truthfully be said of Mr. Bissell that, in his labors, he has been unselfish in his ends, not too highly esteeming worldly wealth or honors, but has given his life and labors to benefit his fellowman. Mr. Bissell was twice married—first, to Fannie A. Gaylord, who died leaving no children; his present wife was Amelia C. Sikes, born Nov. 28, 1823, in Summers, Tolland Co., Conn. ; her parents were Chauncey and Cynthia (Hancock) Sikes; Chauncey was a son of Abel Sikes, and Cynthia was a daughter of Gibson and Eunice (Green) Hancock, all of South Wilbraham. The children of Chauncey and Cynthia were Amelia C., Henry C., Francis, George M., Ralph F., Julia A. and Elizabeth M. Mrs. Bissell graduated, June 30, 1850, in the Wesleyan Academy at Wilbraham, Conn., and for
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many years has been a successful teacher. Mr. and Mrs. Bissell have one daughter—Fannie A.
H. A. BISSELL, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; was born March 3, 1847, on the farm where he now lives; his parents were Cephas and Isabel (Crawford) Bissell; his father was born in Middlefield. Mass., June 25, 1800. and was the son of Justus, who was a son of Israel Bissell, who was a native of Connecticut. Cephas came West with his parents to what is now Portage Co. in 1800, and settled in Aurora. Feb. 23, 1829, he was married, by Rev. John Seward, to Isabel Crawford, who was born in Orange Co., N. Y.. May 20, 1806, to Solomon and Anna Crawford, whose other children were Alexander and Cadwalder. Solomon was born Feb. 14, 1772, and Anna, his wife, Feb. 24. 1783; they were married March 13, 1800. Cephas Bissell spent the early part of his life in Aurora, and removed to the eastern part of Twinsburg Township in 1832, where he lived until his death. which occurred May 18, 1867; his wife still survives him. Their children were Cephas, born in Aurora April 19, 1830, died Sept. 28, 1873, leaving one son, Freddie; Isabel. who was born in Aurora Sept. 20, 1831, and died Dec. 27, 1833; Anna. born in Twinsburg Dec. 25. 1840, married Nelson Dodge. and died Jan. 30. 186 2. Henry A. was married, Dec. 18, to Anna Nichols. born in this township Feb. 25. 1859; she was the daughter of Oscar A. and Ellen (Hutchinson') Nichols; she bore him one son —Roy H.. Sept. 22. 1880. Cephas Bissell. the father of our subject. was regarded in the community as an upright man and worthy citizen; he and wife were both members of the Congregational Church. Henry A. is the only child living; he is engaged in farming and dairying, and is doing a good business; his farm consists of 415 acres.
JAMES BROWN. farmer: P. O. Twinsburg: was born Dec. 1. 1806, in Hampden Co.. Mass, to James Brown, whose father's name also was James. The mother of our subject was Orvilla Phelps, of Connecticut; his father, being a poor man, he left home at the tender age of 7, and was buffeted about from place to place until he was 11 years of age, when he was bound out until his majority, after which he worked out by the day and month, receiving small compensation for his labor. In his 27th year, he married Emeiline Waterman, daughter of Zebedee, a soldier in the war of the Revolution. Mr. Brown came West in the spring of 1839, to Twinsburg, where he manufactured shoes, which business he had followed to some extent before he came West. In 1841, he purchased the laud where he now resides, which then was mostly unimproved. April 14, 1843, his wife died, leaving one daughter—Caroline, now Mrs. John W. Barge, who is a resident of Cleveland. Jan. 10 of the following year, he married Miranda Hanchett, born July 1, 1825, in Yates Co., N. Y., daughter of Seth and Patty Remington Hanchett, who were natives of Connecticut, and removed to Yates Co., N. Y., prior to the war of 1812. To them were born nine children. The family came West to this township in 1833, locating in the southeastern part. Mr. Brown, by his last marriage, has one child only—Almon James, who perpetuates the family name. To James, the grandfather of our subject, were born James, William, Nicholas, Daniel, Thomas, Lewis, Israel, Petsey and Jennie. To James and Orvilla Phelps were born Hannah. Orvilla, James, Roswell and Almon. Almon James was born Feb. 16, 1846, and, on March 5. 1868, married Miss Dunchee, who was born Dec. 18, 1848, to Harrison and Sylphinia (Nye) Dunchee. Almon J. has one son—James H., born Dec. 27, 1877. The farm consists of 300 acres, the result of hard labor and rigid economy.
H. W. CANNON, farmer; P. O. Twinbsurg; born in Blanford Township, Hampden Co., State of Massachusetts. Match 5, 1830; was the only child of his parents, Nathan and Elizabeth (Waterman) Cannon, and came West with them to Portage Co. in 1833, and thence to this township in the following year, where his father purchased 80 acres of land on Lots 41 and 42. Upon this place our subject has since resided. His early youth was spent on the farm and attending school, his education, in his later school-days, being received under the guardianship of Rev. Samuel Bissell, of the Twinsburg Institute, where he attended several terms. Since he has grown
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to manhood, he has conducted the farm, and has been identified with the interests of the township. He has always been a stalwart Republican, and has repeatedly filled important offices of the township. He has been twice married—first, to Violetta Hamilton, Feb. 1, 1856, daughter of John Hamilton, of Nelson, Madison Co., N. Y.; she died in May, 1862, leaving two children—Clayton and Hattie. Jan. 1, 1869, he married Delia Harmon, born in Aurora, Portage Co., Oct. 23, 1838, daughter of Israel and Maria (Benjamin) Harmon. Mr. and Mrs. Cannon are members of the Congregational Church. They have one child, Julia May. Israel Harmon was born Dec 25, 1808, and died at the age of 72; his wife was born Dec. 24, 1814; to them were born five children. Nathan Cannon was a son of Nathan, of English ancestry; his children were Israel, Sylvester, Tryphenia, Artamissa and Salomi. Zebedee Waterman, the grandfather of our subject on his mother's side, entered the Continental army at the age of 14, and served as teamster. Nathan Cannon died Aug. 17, 1869, and his wife Nov. 20, 1879.
ALBERT CHAPMAN, retired farmer; P. O. Twinsburg: was born April 12, 1812, in Hampden Co., Mass., being the fifth of a family of nine children of Nathan and Eunice (Parks) Chapman. Nathan was born in Groton, Conn., and was the son of Isaac Chapman, who was a soldier in the Revolution, and to whom were born Elisha, Abner, Nathan, Isaac, Bradford, Susan, Mary and Thankful. To Nathan and Eunice were born Polly, Betsey, Oriel, Albert, Vinson, Norman, Aldin, Carlos and Laura. Albert's father was a first-rate farmer, and raised his sons to become tillers of the soil. Albert, leaving the parental home about the time he became of age, engaged his services by the month, and labored industriously. In 1837, he came West to this State, spending the first year at Kent, Portage Co.; he afterward went to Clay Co., Ind., where he bought 160 acres from the Government, and, shortly after, purchased 40 more. ' After nearly six years of pioneer labor, he traded his land for 65 acres in this township, where he removed in 1845. Here he has sines resided. He formed a matrimonial alliance with Sarah Eno, born May 15, 1815, at East Granby, Hartford Co., Conn., daughter of Gaylord and Azubah (Phelps) Eno; her father was born in East Granby, and was son of David, who was wounded while a soldier in the war of the Revolution; Azubab ! was a daughter of Azariah, of Welsh descent. Gaylord and Azubah had a family composed of David, Delia, Sarah, Lorenzo, Gaylord, Azubah, Charles, Lydia and Virgil. The worldly result of the labors of Mr. Chapman, assisted by his faithful helpmeet, is 250 acres of land, situated in the northern part of the township, mostly on Lots 5 and 6; they have also valuable property in Cleveland. Since 1868, he has been retired from active business, and resides at the Center. They have two children—Nathan A., who married Grace How, having two children, Jennie G. and Albert C.; Lydia, who married Ed Johnson, and has also two children—Albert E. and Arthur G. Mr. Chapman is a Baptist, and his wife a Methodist.
MRS. MARGARET COCHRANE, farming; P. O. Twinsburg; was born Aug. 14, 1824, in Edinburgh, Scotland, to William and Isabella (Shaw) Baxter; Mr. Baxter was a tanner by trade, having in charge a tannery in Scotland, the proprietor of which became bankrupt, which threw Mr. Baxter out of employment, when he decided to come to America. Mrs. Cochrane emigrated to this country with her parents when she was 9 years of age; the ship was the Royal Blackburn, which was three months in coming across. They came near being wrecked, and at one time were out of provisions. The family located at Ravenna, Portage Co., where he followed his trade two years, and then engaged in farming, which business he followed until his death; his first purchase was 50 acres at Shalersville, for which he paid $4 per acre; he afterward added 64 acres, remaining upon it until removed by death, on Feb. 6, 1874; his wife died suddenly, Aug. 6, 1876; they were members of the Established Church; they had four children—James, in Ravenna; Isabel, now the wife of John Moore, of Kent; Mrs. Cochrane, and David (deceased). June 10, 1845, our subject married David Cochrane, whose name she bears: he was born in Scotland, to John and Mary (Brodie) Cochrane. David came to
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this country with his parents when it was new, the family locating on what is now Liberty street, this township. Mr. Cochrane was a farmer, a kind man, and good citizen; he died Nov. 17, 1878, of consumption, having been in poor health for twenty years; the children born to him are ten, viz.: James, Robert, Margaret, Willie, David, Isabella, Mary and Martha (twins), Almina and John. Mrs. Cochrane still remains on the homestead, owning land in Ravenna and in this township, amounting to nearly 300 acres in all.
ELMORE W. CLARK, hotel, Twinsburg; was born April 10, 1816. in Watertown, Conn.; he was one of nine children born to Leverett and Amy (Warner) Clark, their names being Ann, John, William, Burk, Phila. Park B., Mabel, Elmore W. and Leverett. In 1823, Elmore came West with his father, who located on the south side of the square, purchasing 100 acres of land, paying for it at the time of the purchase: when he came, he had 81,000 in money, which was considered a very large amount at that time, its possessor being looked upon as a rich man. At the age of 17, Mr. Clark engaged as clerk to Ethan Ailing at this place, remaining with him three years: he afterward spent some time in the South, engaged in the manufacture of lumber, boating the same to New Orleans; next, he went to Willoughby, where he clerked three years, after which, for a period of three years, he was engaged in the mercantile business at Drakesburg, Portage Co.: Oct. 12, 1842, he was married to Arvilla Carver, who was born at Whitehall, Washington Co., N. Y.; Oct. 6, 1823, to Bernice and Rachel (Collier) Carver. Since 1855, Mr. Clark has been engaged in the hotel business at this place, and is an efficient and popular landlord. Of five children born to him, three are living, viz.: Bela B., Stella (the wife of O. P. Nicholds, of this township) and Etta M. Bela B. was married to Alice Pratt, born in this county to M. D. and Amanda (Hull) Pratt, who were early settlers in Copley Township. Elmore W. was elected Justice of the Peace in 1876, serving one term. Bela B. was his successor, which position he yet retains. For many years, Mr. Clark has been a member of the Masonic fraternity. Bela B. is a member of Summit' Lodge, No. 213, and Summit Chapter, R. A. M., No. 74.
EZRA CLARK, retired farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; son of Ezra and Naomi Williams; was born March 25, 1807, in Saybrook, Middlesex Co., Conn.; his father was a son of Paul, whose father was William, who, with two brothers, came from England and settled in Saybrook. Sarah Wheeler was the wife of Paul, who served in the war of the Revolution; their children were Sarah, Jesse, Asa, Betsey, Irene, Eliza and John (twins), Benjamin and Adah. Bemen, George, Peter and Paul were the offspring of William. To Ezra ' and Naomi were born Ezra, Gilbert, Fannie, Rufus, Dianah, Mary, Norman and Henry. Ezra came West with his mother and stepfather in 1821; they made the journey with two yoke of oxen, and by one horse, and were thirty days in coming; they located on the Wilcox Tract, Lot No. 10, for which he had traded his land in Connecticut. In September, 1831, Ezra was married to Lucy Webster, who was born in Washington Co., Ohio; she died Feb. 19, 1874, leaving four children, viz.: Celia, Mrs. Seymour S. Fowler, of Franklin Co., Penn.; Clarissa N., Mrs. Edwin Betts, in Hamden, Geauga Co.; Harrison L., same county; Emma M., Mrs. Edgar Betts, Hamden, Geauga Co., Ohio. Mr. Clark was married. Dec. 6, 1874., to Mary C. Wright, who was born March 20, 1821, in Saybrook; she was the daughter of Joseph and Irene (Clark) Dennison; Irene was a daughter of Paul and Sarah (Wheeler) Clark. To Joseph and Irene were born Louisa, Charles, Sylvia and Mary; Joseph died in 1838, and his wife in 1835. Mr. Clark's first purchase of land was in the northern part of the township; this he sold soon after, and made his permanent settlement on Lots 9 and 16; he and wife are members of the M. E. Church, and he is a consistent Republican.
ERASTUS DANIELS, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; son of Lemuel C. and Eunice (Young) Daniels; was born in August, 1824, in Middlesex Co., Conn.; he was raised to farming in his early boyhood, which business proved distasteful to him, and he learned the wagon-maker's trade. Of the children born to Lemuel and Eunice Daniels, were Aristar-
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chus, Seth, Levi, Amasa, Edmund, Harriet, Rosetta, Esther A. and Euncie. In 1849, Erastus came West, to this township with his brother Levi, purchasing 105 acres of E. Carver, on Lot 14, for which they paid $3,000; for about fifteen years they followed their trade, in connection with farming. Jan. 9, 1860, he married Wealthy Matthews, who came West in 1853; she was born June 26, 1836, in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., and was the daughter of John Matthews, who was born in January, 1807, in Hamilton Co., Vt.; her father was a son of Joseph, who was born on Cape Cod Aug. 16, 1772, and was a Sea Captain; he died Dec. 6, 1845; his wife was a Hall. The mother of Mrs. Daniels, prior to her marriage was Delulia Thompson; their marriage was solemnized Jan. 1, 1827, and her death occurred Sept. 20, 1840; the Matthews family are of English ancestry: the children born to John and Delulia Matthews were as follows: Louisa, Mary, Martha, Amelia, George, Wealthy, Harriet and Alma. To Mr. and Mrs. Daniels have been born one child-Minnie G.; they are members of the Congregational Church; in politics, he is Republican, yet no politician; his farm, consisting of 105 acres, is situated nearly one mile south of the Center; his brother Levi died in February, 1865, and was unmarried.
S. FREEMAN, physician. Twinsburg. Among the successful practitioners of materia medica in this county who are self-made, and who have justly merited the success gained, is Dr. Freeman, who was born in Painesville Oct. 1, 1830, to Jeduthan and Sally (Edison) Freeman; Jeduthan's father bore the same name as himself, and was of pure English stock; his children were Jesse R., Calvin, Russell, Moody, Jeduthan, Lucy and Keziah; Jeduthan was a soldier in the war of 1812; was a blacksmith by trade, which vocation the Doctor became thoroughly versed in during his minority; having a love for the science of medicine, he began a course of ding while at work at his trade; he took his first course of lectures in the school of homoeopathy in Cleveland, and his last in Chicago; he began practice in 1858 in this township, and has since continued, having a large practice.
Dr. L. G. GRISTE, physician, Twinsburg. The Griste family descended from John Griste, the great-great-grandfather of our subject, who came from England to America in 1720, and settled in Norwich, Conn.; he had three children, among whom was John, Jr., born July 31, 1734, married Delight Lathrop, had the following children: George, Charlotte, John and Eunice. George was born Aug. 14, 1772, and married Lois Bradner; had thirteen children, among whom was John B. Griste, the father of our subject, born Nov. 13, 1811; married Louisa Hale Aug. 31, 1837 ; was born April 3, 1813. The fruits of this union was two children—Perry O. and Luman G. Obed Hale, the grandfather of L. G., was born in Enfield, Conn., Oct. 29. 1740. His wife was a Mindevell by name, born in Massachusetts May 10, 1741. The Hales are dissentients of Sir Matthew Hale, the Jurist. John B. Griste came to Ohio in 1833; was a carpenter by trade, he died Aug. 11, 1867; his wife yet survives him. The Doctor was raised to farming. but, at the age of 19, began reading medicine Aug. 7, 1862. Enlisted in Co. E, .105th O. V. I.; after serving in several hotly-contested battles was wounded in the hand, losing his third finger by gunshot. Was discharged Feb. 24, 1864, on account of disability. In November, 1867, married Zilpha Freeman, born April (3, 1846, in Chagrin Falls; daughter of Jeduthan and Sarah (Edison) Freeman. He was born June 9. 1808, in New York: son of Jeduthan of English ! stock. Sarah Edison was a daughter of Levi I and Clarrisa (Moulton) Edison; he was a son of Levi, born in Tolland Co., Conn. His wife was Mary Blodgett; Levi was in the war of 1812, and the father of seven children: To Levi and Clarissa were born twelve children. In 1869. the Doctor graduated at Eastman's College at Poughkeepsie. Served as Town Clerk six years, when he resigned and attended lectures at the College of Homoeopathy at Cleveland. In 1874, began the practice of medicine in Twinsburg, where he has a lucrative practice. Has two children-Le-Mars and Ethel L.
MRS. LUCIA. HAWKINS, farming; is the relict of Joseph A. Hawkins, who was born March 7, 1805, in Litchfield Co., Conn.;
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his father was a native of England, and upon his arrival in America, settled in East Windsor, Conn. His children were named Joseph, Hannah and Grant. At the outbreak of the war of 1812, he went out to battle; he died about the year 1817, leaving his wife with seven children, and in straitened circumstances. Joseph came West about the year 1829 to Hudson Township. Dec. 15, 1831, he married Lucia Pond, who was born March 5, 1815, in Winchester, Conn. Preston and Esther (Whedon) Pond, both natives of Connecticut. The family came West in 1818, with their ox team, and her father's first location was on Lot 14, in Twinsburg Township; he was among the first arrivals, there being but about five families in the township at that time. Lucia was one of eight children, viz., Lucia, Harriet, Mary, Sarah, Laura, Julius, Julia and Lewis. Mr. Pond remained in this township but a few years, and then removed to Hudson, where he died about the year 1833. His companion reached the ripe age of 85. He was a good man, upright and conscientious in his dealings. and although not a member of any ecclesiastical order, yet he lived a Christian life. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins; they lived in Hudson until 1837, when they moved to the southeastern part of this township, and engaged in farming. In his early life, he served as Captain in the militia, afterward as Colonel. He was the first to introduce the stock of Devonshire cattle in this township. Mr. Hawkins died Aug. 12, 1873, having at the time of his death 400 acres of land. The farm was first settled by Lewis Ailing. Mr. Hawkins was a member of the Congregational Church, of which his wife is an active representative. There are two sons—Albert W. and Alfred; A. W. resides on homestead.
CHAUNCEY LANE, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; was born Aug. 31, 1803, in Middlesex Co., Conn., and was the son of Phillip Lane, who was born in Killingworth Jan. 9, 1766, and was married, November, 1795, to Rebina, who was born Nov. 26, 1770, in the same county. To them were born Luman, Henry and Harry, Lovina, Chauncey, Julius, Abner, Harriet, Nathan and Polly. The parents of the above died in Killingworth Jan. 11, 1851,and June 2, 1850, respectively. Phillip was a son of Joseph, whose father was John, the son of Robert, who emigrated from England about the year 1670. Chauncey remained at home until he passed his majority, when he came West in November, 1828. In February of the following year, he purchased 100 acres of land for $300, on Lot 12. May 31, 1837, he married Phebe Bailey, born Jan, 20, 1811, in Groton, New London Co., Conn., to Asher and Abigail (Smith) Bailey, her father having been born in the same place in December, 1775. He was a son of John, who was one of three brothers, who came from England and settled in Connecticut. Abigail was a daughter of Samuel Smith, who was 16 years of age at the time of the battle of Fort Griswold in Revolutionary times. The Baileys were Congregationalists, and the Smiths Baptists. Mrs. Lane came West to Geauga Co. with her brother in 1836; her parents followed soon after, and settled in Munson, same county. Two children Chauncey P. and Caroline, were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lane. C. P. now resides on the farm where he was born Jan. 14, 1844. He married Mary E. Ames, a native of Vermont, and has three children—Carrie, Frank and Eddie, who is now serving as Justice of the Peace. Caroline resides in Minnesota, the wife of Hon. William Fowler. Mr. Lane has a good farm of nearly 100 acres.
ORRIS LEACH, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; son of Daniel and Anna R. (Bissell) Leach; was born Oct. 18, 1818, among the hills of Hampshire Co., Mass. His father was a son of Daniel, Sr., whose sons were Daniel, Ira, Joseph and Isaiah. Anna Bissell was a daughter of Justus, who served in the war of the Revolution. The Bissell family have all descended from one John, who came from Somersetshire, England, to America in 1628. The parents of Orris died when he was in his minority. His father was a farmer, and was also engaged in the milling business. At the age of 23, Orris came West to Aurora, where he engaged at farm labor. April 28, 1850, he married Sallie M. Blair, who was born Aug. 21, 1819, in Aurora: she was a daughter of Isaac and Rebecca (Taylor) Blair, who were among the early pioneers of that county. Isaac
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Blair was a son of Isaac and Bathsheba (Frost) Blair, to whom were born ten children —Matthew, Elijah, Elam and Eli. (twins); Isaac, Bohan, Mollie, Julia, Anna and Rebecca. To Isaac and Rebecca Taylor Blair were born Mary A., Milton, Emily, Sallie, Carroll, Jane, Louisa, Emeline and Armilla. Isaac served in the war of 1812. Mr. Leach came to Twinsburg in 1851, and for several years was engaged in trading. He moved to his present home in 1870, and has over 160 acres of land where he resides; he also owns 65 acres in Michigan. Mrs. Leach was for twenty-three years a teacher, and taught eleven years in one place. Their children are —Addie, Mrs. L. Hawkins; Bride, Mrs F. L. Haggett; and Manly.
HENRY LIVINGSTON, cheese manufacturer, Twinsburg; son of Henry and Nancy (Lacore) Livingston; was born April 26, 1830, in Watertown, Jefferson Co., N. Y. His father was a son of Henry Livingston, Sr., who was born in Armagh on the Emerald Isle. Nathaniel was the father of Nancy, he had born to him Nancy, Margaret, Luke, Cleantha, Champion and Jerusha. Henry, the father of our subject, was born about the year 1786, in Ireland, and emigrated to New York in the early part of the present century. He was an Irishman, born of a highly respected family who were among the intelligent class, ranking high in social position. He was identified prominently with the interests both of a local and general character. As a Freemason he ranked high, having advanced from the Blue Lodge to the orders of Knighthood. To him were born seven children, viz., Margaret, Sarah, Henry, J. A., John W., Jane and William. The family came West to Cleveland Sept. 10, 1837, where the father died soon after. At the age of 16, Henry learned the shoemaker's trade at this place. Dec. 25, 1850, he was married to Laura Done, born in this township May 23, 1832, and the daughter of A. B. a Maria Done, who were from Connecticut, and came West about 1826. Aug. 20, 1864, he enlisted in Co. E, 177th O. V. I, and served until the close of the war. Upon his return home, he resumed his former , occupation. About the year 1868, he engaged0 in the manufacture of cheese at this place. He has but one child—Ella M, who is now the wife of George L. Fuller, of this town ship. Two others died—Russell H., at 17 and Laura A., 2 years of age. Mr. L. is ; member of Summit Lodge, A., F. & A. M. No. 213, and Summit Chapter, R. A. M., No 74. He is in politics a Democrat.
J. W. McINTOSH, retired farmer; P. 0 Twinsburg; is one of the early settlers on Liberty street; he was born Feb. 4, 1805, ii Trumbull Co.. this State; son of Pascal am Abi (Clark) McIntosh. He was a son o: Ebenezer, whose birth place was Scotland and emigrated to the Eastern States prior to the Revolutionary war. in which he was an active participant. To him were born Betsey Pascal, 'Moses, John and Daniel. Ebenezer's wife was a Marvel prior to her marriage. Pascal was born in New Hampshire, received a collegiate education at Yale, and was a man of superior ability. He came West about thE year 1799; first to the mouth of Chagrin River, where he lived about two years; then moved to Mantua, where he kept bachelor's hall for some time. Abi was a daughter of Ephraim, whose children were Isaac. Ephraim, Acenath, Rachel, Abi, Polly, Hannah, Pascal. The father of the above died in Mantua Township; for many years he has been a substantial member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His superior education made him a useful member of the society in which he lived, and of which he was ever a loved and honored member. John W. left home at 22, and learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, at which he worked for several years. At the age of 24, he married Olive Ferris, who was born March 11, 1814, in Suffield, Portage Co., to Granderson and Mary (Card) Ferris. Her mother was born in Portage Co., and her father in Virginia; he was a son of John, who married Jerusha Lockwood. Mary Card was a daughter of Silas Card. Mr. and Mrs. McIntosh came to this township in September, 1831. He built his cabin about forty rods south of his present residence, "all woods" at this time, and game very abundant; he killed, one afternoon, three deer and two turkeys. They had several children, all of whom are deceased; but two lived to be grown, viz., Mary, who married David Riley, and died
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leaving two children—Randolph and Mary. Alexander, who died at the age of 19, was a young man of much promise. He was a student under James A. Garfield at Hiram, and before his death prophesied that Garfield would be President.
A. L. NELSON, merchant, Twinsburg; only son of Salmon C. and Mary (Thompson) Nelson, was born Dec. 8, 1827, in Hebron, Washington Co., N. Y. Salmon was born June 11, 1804, in Washington Co., and was the son of Moses, whose father was John Nelson. Moses Nelson married Chloe Carver, who bore him Salmon, Mary, Silas, Fannie, Harley, Daniel, Almira and Eliza J. Mary Thompson, the mother of A. L., was born Nov. 2, 1807, in North Granville. N. Y., to James and Catharine (Kelleyham) Thompson. Her father was born in England, her mother in Ireland. They died when she was quite young, hence she knew but little concerning their history or origin. Mrs. Nelson was married to Salmon C. Dec. 30, 1826. They came West in 1833, locating in this township and engaged in farming, remaining until he was removed by death. April 7, 1866. He was a man highly respected in the community, and possessed kind and generous impulses. She still survives him. A. L. was married, June 12, 1853, to Belvia A. Smith, a native of the Empire State, daughter of George B. Smith, who married Clara Everest. In 1853. Mr. Nelson engaged in business at this place, and has since continued. He is a successful and reliable business man. He was for several years Postmaster. He keeps a general store, composed of such things as are required in the farming community. Although not a member of any church society, he is not unkindly disposed toward any ecclesiastical order, and in bestowing charity where it is needed, he is not found wanting.
JUNIA NORTH, retired, Twinsburg; was born in Litchfield Co., Conn., April 30, 1796. He was the son of Junia and grandson of Noah North, whose ancestors came from Farmington, England. Noah North's wife, whose maiden name was Looms, bore him three sons and two daughters. To the father of our subject were born Romania, Tryphenia, Ariel, Rube, Willard, Sabrina, Junia, Lura, Lorain, and Frederick and Philomelia (twins). Mr. North who was wised a farmer, came West in the spring of 1823, and lived in Braceville the first year; the year following he purchased with $1,500 100 acres on Lot 24, in this township. April, 1824, he married Lovina Meriam, who taught the first school in the township. She came West with her uncle, who settled in Hudson as early as 1802. Mr. North remained on his farm from the time of his marriage until about the year 1862. His wife died leaving seven children. Mr. North's present wife was Mrs. Mary Knapp, whose maiden name was Wolcott. His home and church, to which he was greatly devoted, are at the Center. For sixty-five years he has been a member and one of the pillars of the Regular Baptist Church, and was one of the six who formed the church body at the time of its organization in the township, and has filled the office of Deacon for many years. Far advanced in years, he is nevertheless remarkably well preserved, and, like a shock of grain fully ripe and fit for its master's use, he stands ready awaiting His call.
HORACE NORTON, retired farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; youngest son of Aaron Norton, was born June 10, 1808, in Otsego Co., N. Y. His father was born July 3, 1751, in Killings worth, Conn., and served as a soldier in the Revolution. He was twice married—first to Eunice Rutty, and moved to Pittsfield, Mass. ; thence to New York. where he married Lydia Hutchinson. He has ten children, viz., Uriah, Selden, Eber, Lebbeus, Simon, Joseph (by the first marriage); Lydia, Sawyer, William A. and Horace (by last marriage). The parents of Horace died suddenly of an epidemic disease, and were buried in one grave. Horace came West to Aurora, Portage Co., in the year 1811, with his brother Selden, with whom he lived for several years. When a lad of 8 years, he was sent to mill with oxen and cart to Northampton, seventeen miles distant, which journey occupied three days; the first day he reached the mill, sleeping on his sacks; the following day he had his grist ground, and started home in the afternoon; night coming on he sought lodging of George Powers, and, in the absence of money, proffered
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a portion of his grist, which was not required nor taken; on the following day he reached home. His early life. was spent in the woods battling with the monarchs of the forest. For several years he took jobs of clearing, and, at the age of 21, he in one year, chopped 25 acres ready for logging, and cleared 10 acres ready for wheat. May 14, 1833, he married Miranda Fisk, who was born April 13, 1816, at Batavia, N. Y., to Benjamin and Beulah (Lamberton) Fisk. Her father was born in York State Dec. 22, 1787, and her mother in the same State Aug. 22, 1794. He was a son of Benjamin, who served in the war of 1812, and was sent to Canada as a spy and was poisoned by eating food given him by a woman. The Fisk family came West to Chester, Geauga Co., in 1818. Benjamin Fisk died October, 1872, his wife Jan. 18, 1868. To them were born Meranda, Tryphena, Orin, Sophrona, James, Benjamin and Horace. Mr, Norton purchased land in Geauga Co. before his marriage, and sold it soon after; then he purchased 123 acres upon which he lived nine years. In 1842, he removed to this township, where he has since lived. He now has 118 acres of land. Of a family of ten children, he alone is living. The others died at the average age of 70 years. None of the boys were ever intoxicated or went to law; all were hardworking and industrious men, honest and upright in their dealings. Mr. and Mrs. Norton are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Their children are . Paulin, who married J. M. Baker, of Ashtabula Co., Ohio; Cordelia, Mrs. C. Baldwin; Newton, in Michigan, and Mrs. Samuel Crankshaw.
S. F. OVIATT, farmer; P. O. Hudson; born Nov. 27, 1827, in Hudson Township; was the son of Benjamin and Rhoda (Kellogg) Oviatt; his father's name was Benjamin, who married a Carter, and by her had the following children, viz., Luman, Heman, Benjamin, Salmon, Nathaniel, Hulda, Olive, Mary and Betsey. She was captured by the Indians at the age of 12, remaining a captive fourteen months, when she was ransomed by the British. Her father was an early settler in Connecticut; in his absence to the settlement for provisions, the Indians came, massacred the mother, a son 17years of age, and infant, burned the cabin and ' took Miss Carter, a sister and her little brother, 5 years of age, with them, whom the tribe adopted and he ever after remained with them. The Oviatts are said to be of Scotch descent. Benjamin, the father of Salmon F., was born in Litchfield Co., Conn., February, 1779, and emigrated West in 1799, to what is now Hudson Township, locating on the land his father had previously purchased. He married Rhoda Kellogg, who was a daughter of Bradford Kellogg, whose wife was a Thompson, to whom were born Alonzo, Alfred, Rena,. Luna, Alvira, Rhoda and Polly. To Benjamin and wife were born eleven children, of those who grew to be adults were Elizabeth, Olive, Hanford, Julia, Silas, Salmon F., Martha and Mary. Benjamin, the father of the above, died in 1849, aged 69, having at the time of his death about 700 acres of land. He was for a number of years a member of the Presbyterian Church, and took an active part in religious matters. May 9, 1849, Salmon F. married Margaret Cameron, who was born in Stark Co. Jan. 31, 1831, to Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Andrews) Cameron, to whom were born six sons and three daughters. Since Mr. Oviatt's marriage, he has resided in the southeastern part of the township, where he has been prosperous and happy. He has no children. His land consists of 575 acres.
JOEL R. PARMELEE, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg. The Parmelee family originated from three brothers, who came from England to America prior to the Revolution. The family settled in North Killingworth, Conn., one of whom was killed in King Phillip's war. The subject of these lines was born in Fairmont, N. H., July 14, 1815; son of William Parmelee, whose wife's maiden name was Fannie Rice. William was a son of Daniel, who was a son of Lemuel, who was born in 1700, in .Killingworth, Conn. To William Parmelee was born thirteen children. Those who grew up were Lucius, Mary, Fannie, Joel R., Samuel N., Harriet, Daniel S., Emily and Edward (twins). William Parmelee came West in 1828, located in this township, and cleared up his farm; remained in the township until his death; he was a good citizen; a
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Deacon in the Congregational Church for several years. Joel R. received a liberal education, fitted for college, taught school some, but finally settled down to agricultural pursuits. Aug. 24, 1844, married Harriet A. Holt. Dec. 7, 1815, in Chester, Conn.; daughter of Benjamin and Lucy (Southworth) Holt. The Holt family emigrated from England to America; descended from one William Holt, born 1610; removed to Wallingworth, Conn., in 1675.: Had seven children born to him, among whom was Nathan, who was wounded in King Philip's war; he married Rebecca Bebee; by her had three children; his son Nathan married Phebe Tomlin; had four children. His son William married Sarah Way, and had seventeen children. Sir John Holt was a Baronet. Joseph Holt was born in September, 1769: he was a soldier in the war of the Revolution. Benjamin Holt was born Dec. 22, 1766, his wife Julia July 2, 1764. Mr. and Mrs. Parmelee have four children—Howard R.. now a minister in Edinburg, Portage Co.: Mary E., now the wife of Amizi Wilson : Harriet F., who is now a missionary to Kiyata, Japan: William B., a student in college. Mr. Parmelee and all his family are members of the Congregational Church—he for fifty years.
GARDINER PARMELEE, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; born April 2, 1827, in this township: is the eldest child of Zeno and Juliet (Post) Parmelee. His father was born Jan. 21, 1801, in Killingworth, Conn. He was but a small lad when his father died, and, at the age of 7, went to live with one Mr. Wilcox, remaining seven years, when he began learning the blacksmith's trade. with him, and, on completing it, he walked from his native State to this township, where he established a business in a log shop at the Center as early as 1822 or 1823. He was married to Juliet Post, daughter of Joshua and Mollie (Dee) Post, who was born Aug. 29, .1806, in Westbrook, Conn. She was the daughter of Joshua and Mollie (Dee) Post. To them were born five children, viz., Gardiner, Mary, Henry and Juliet. He died in April, 1862; she also is deceased. Both were members of the Congregational Church. Gardiner learned the blacksmith's trade with his father; afterattaining his majority, he conducted the business for his own benefit for a few years. Nov. 9, 1848, he married Rhoda Roach, who was born Dec. 10, 1829, in Hebron, Washington Co., N. Y. She was the daughter of James Roach, whose wife was Mary Nelson. February, 1862, Mr. Parmelee purchased 100 acres a little west of the Center, which place has since been his constant residence. On the farm is an excellent stone quarry, which is a considerable source of revenue to its owner. He has three daughters, viz., Mary, who married F. Dolaishe, residents of Put-In-Bay; Jose B. at home; andChloe O., now Mrs. Charles Riley, of this township. He is not a member of any church, but favors religion and practices morality.
PHILO POST, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; was born June 29, 1817, in Saybrook, Conn., to Joshua and Mollie (Dee) Post. His grandfather's name was also Joshua Post. The father of Mollie Dee was Marcus. To Joshua and Mollie (Dee) Post were born thirteen children, viz., Joshua, Polly, Deborah, Emily, Dianah, Jerusha, Mercy, Belinda, Sallie, Hettie A., Hannah, Juliet and Philo. Philo came to this county with his parents when 4 years of age; the family located in the southern part of the township, near Brandywine, upon land which his father purchased before leaving Connecticut. Joshua died about two years after his arrival. When 14 years of age, Philo moved to Liberty street, this township, with his mother, who purchased 50 acres. With her he lived until his union with Miss Luna Carpenter, which event took place Jan. 1, 1850. She was born Aug. 7, 1828, in Boston Township, and was the daughter of Aaron and Tirzah (Drake) Carpenter, both of whom were natives of Connecticut, and were among the early settlers of Boston Township. To them were born a family of :children whose names were Melinda, Luna, Martha, Mary, Cynthia, Maria, Elijah, Cornelius B., George, Comfort, Elijah. Aaron Carpenter was for many years a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a Classleader of the same. He was a just and upright man, and worthy citizen. The political status of both sides of the families have been Whigs, and more recently Republicans. Since Mr. and Mrs.
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Post have been married, they have resided on the farm where he first located. He has been an industrious man, and has been successful in accumulating a good share of this world's goods—having 200 acres of land, which is adorned by excellent farm and house buildings. Of six children born him, those living are: Emma V., now the wife of L. Bennett; Stella L., Harry E. and Rosa M. Willie died when 15 months old, and William at 5 years of age.
MOSES N. ROACH, mechanic and farmer: P. O. Twinsburg; was born Oct. 16. 1832, in Hebron, Washington Co., N. Y., to James and Mary (Nelson) Roach. His ancestors came from Ireland. The Roach family came West in 1836, locating in this township on Lot No. 1. When Mr. Roach arrived here, he had but $5 in money. He was a carpenter and joiner, and worked at his trade, earning enough to pay for his land, which was unimproved. He worked at his trade during the day, came home, and by night cut down trees, which the boys would trim up the next day; this was continued until the land was cleared. For nearly a score of years he worked at his trade, and spent the remainder of his life on the farm. He died in February, 1876; he was an upright man, and a. member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. To him were born Gilbert, now in Cleveland; Chloe C., Mrs. Horatio Bartlett, in East Cleveland; Rhoda, the wife of Gardiner Parmelee; Moses N. and Martin V. B. At the age of 16, Moses left home and learned the blacksmith's trade. June 11, 1853, he married Minerva Beldin, daughter of Erastus and Betsey (Armstead) Beldin, to whom were born seven children. Since Mr. Roach was married, he has been engaged at his trade and at farming, and, with the exception of three years spent in Hudson Township, he has been a resident of this. He rents 180 acres of land in the west part of the township, and carries on his shop at the Center. He has two children—Albert E. and Alonzo N. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is much interested in the Sunday-school cause; is a Superintendent thereof, and an excellent cellent mechanic. He is a zealous member of the Masonic fraternity; a member of Summit Lodge, A., F. & A. M, and Summit Chapter, R.A.M.
OLIVER RONIGER, farmer; P. O. Twinsburg; he was born June 10, 1807, in Eri, Switzerland; his parents were Mecher and Frances (Miller) Roniger, to whom were born seven children-two sons and five daughters. Oliver was bereft of his father when 2 1/2 years old; remained with his mother until a lad of 14. when he began to provide for himself. When 21, he went to learn the stonemason's trade, at which he worked four years, learning the plasterer's art and the laying of brick as well. To better his condition. he set sail for America in November, 1832. coming on direct from New York to this township: arriving here, his worldly possessions amounted to a haversack of old clothes and 75 cents in money, which he afterward loaned to an acquaintance to purchase necessaries for his family. When Mr. Roniger came, he was not familiar with the English language, which was taken advantage of, at times, by unprincipled men, who endeavored to profit by his native honesty and unsuspecting manner. Two years afterward, by diligence and economy, he purchased 35 acres in the southeast part of the township. In November, same year, he married Jane Burroughs. born April 1, 1812, in Mifflin Township, Mifflin Co.. Penn.; her parents were John and Sarah (Durst) Burroughs, who emigrated to Palmyra, in Portage Co., when she was about 15 years of age. Since the location of Mr. Bolinger in this township, he has been a constant resident and worthy citizen; he has been industrious and prosperous, having acquired 175 acres of land. He is a member of Summit Lodge. No. 213, A., F. & A. M.; has no children, but adopted a son, Morris Dunn, at 2 years of age, who now bears their name; he was born in Boston Township, Oct. 22, 1846, son of John and Martha (Reed) Dunn. Morris married Mary Sabin, born in Ravenna; they have five children—Minnie, Martha. Millie F., Elsie M. and Oliver.