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Ninety-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. The Ninety-ninth was organized at Camp Lima, Ohio, and mustered into service August 26, 1862. Of this regiment two companies were raised in Allen County, two in Shelby, two in Hancock, and one each in Auglaize, Mercer, Putnam, and Van Wert. For the regiment seventeen hundred men were recruited, but seven hundred were at once transferred to the One Hundred and Eighteenth Ohio. They left Camp Lima, August 31, with one thousand and twenty-one men, under orders to report at Lexington, Kentucky. While en route it was learned that the enemy had taken Lexington and the regiment w; ordered to Cynthiana. After a few weeks it went to Covington at entered the fortifications at Fort Mitchell. In September it went I steamer to Louisville, and was so disposed as to assist in the defence that place against the threatened assault of the army under Bragg. c the 1st of .October the regiment was transferred to Colonel Stanley Matthew's Brigade, which was composed of the Fifty-first and Ninety- ninth Ohio; the Eighth and Twenty-first Kentucky, and the Thirty-fifth Indiana. This subsequently became the Third Brigade, Third Division, Twenty-first Army Corps. The regiment now marched in pursuit ( Bragg's retreating forces as far as Wild Cat, from which place the hr gale moved to Mount Vernon, and again in regular order to Somerset, Columbia, Glasgow, and Gallatin. From this last point it was orderd to Lebanon to intercept the command of John Morgan. The march t Lebanon and back to Silver Springs was made in one day, and Mor- gan's command was first dislodged, Wit followed the brigade on it retreat and captured about one hundred of the Union forces who were unable to keep up the rapid march of the brigade. About twenty o these stragglers who were captured belonged to the Ninety-ninth. Afte a few days' rest the regiment moved toward Nashville and took position about seven miles from that city. Here the troops suffered greatly from sickness, and when the forward movement was ordered to Stone River the regiment could only muster three hundred and sixty-nine privates, two field officers, seven line officers, and three staff' officers, who were fit for duty. On December 26, the regiment advanced toward Murfreesboro', being under the rebel fire during part of the march. Al the battle of stone River it formed on the extreme left of the line. On the morning of December 31 the division crossed Stone River, but on account of the disaster on the right, was ordered back to hold the ford while the first and second brigades were sent to re-enforce the corps of General McCook. On January 1, 1863, the third division crossed the river and took a position which it held until Friday afternoon, when the rebels formed in heavy column, and doubling on the centre, drove VS! Cleve's division across the river. This division was at once reinforced and drove the Rebels back, capturing all the artillery used in the attach' Bragg 'commenced his retreat under cover of that night. In this battle the Ninety-ninth lost three officers and seventeen men killed ; two officers and forty-one men wounded, and one officer and twenty-nine men cal turgid. After this battle the regiment took position at Murfreesboro' on the left of the line. On June 30, 1863, it marched to McMinnville, where it remained until the 16th of August, when it moved to Pikeville. After various marches and duties the regiment moved to Ring. and 'participated in the battle of Chickamauga. Soon afterward; Twentieth and Twenty-first Corps were consolidated, and the Ninety. ninth Regiment was transferred to the Second Brigade, First Division, Fourth Corps. This brigade camped for a time opposite Lookout Moun- tain, but on the 1st of November moved to Shell Mound, where it did duty guarding and repairing the railroad from Chattanooga to Bridgeport. On the 22d it moved up the valley, and on the 24th participated in the "battle above the clouds," being the second line of the charging I column. As the lines swept around the mountain the Second closed-up on the FirSt until nearing the Point, it rushed impetuously through the first line arid held the advance until relieved by fresh troops after, nightfall. The next day the regiment was engaged at Mission Ridge, occupy the extreme right of the National line. After following the Rebels Ringgold the regiment returned to Shell Mound, where it remai until February, 1864, when it moved to Cleveland, Tennessee, and the 3d of May entered upon the Atlanta campaign. It next participated in the actions of Rocky Face Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain, Pine Mo tain, Atlanta, Jamesboro', and Lovejoy, in all of which engagements regiment bore an honorable and prominent part. On the 28th of June it was assigned to the Fourth Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-third Corps, and on the 19th of July took possession of Decatur. The regiment participated in the actions before Atlanta and moved to Jonesboro' and Lovejoy. It was next assigned to the First Brigade and returned to Decatur, having lost in the Atlanta cam- HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 157 paign thirty men killed and fifty-six wounded. On the 1st of October the regiment started in pursuit of the command of Hood, moving to Centreville by way of Resaca, Johnsonville, and Waverly. For a few weeks its communication was cut off, but it finally received orders by courier march to Franklin. As this place was in the hands of the enemy the march was continued to Nashville. It next appeared in line in front of Nashville, and on the morning of the 15th of December moved against the intrenched army of Hood. It drove the enemy from one position to another until it found them posted on a hill covered by a stone wall. The division, without orders, charged the position, carried it, and turned the guns upon the retreating foe. The enemy was pursued to Columbia, where this regiment was consolidated with the Fifteenth Ohio and the Ninety-ninth ceased as an organization. The regimental colors were then sent to Governor Brough, who acknowledged their reception in a very complimentary letter. Company A, Ninety-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. When the company was first organized it was commanded by the following officers: Captain, W. C. Scott; 1st lieut. Edward King; 2d lieut. W. T. Exline. In the battle of Lookout Mountain, Nov. 1863, Captain Scott was killed, and the duties of the office devolved upon Lieut. Exline. Captain, William T. Exline. 1st Lieut., Thos. J. King. 2d Lieut., W. S. Williams. 1st Sergt., H. P. Thomas; promoted to 2d Lieut. vice Lieut. Exline promoted vice Ed. King, resigned. 2d Sergt., Thos. J. King ; promoted to 1st Lieut. vice Holmes, promoted and transferred. 30 Sergt., Wm. S. Williams; promoted to 2d Lieut. vice Holmes, promoted. 4th Sergt., David Harnly; promoted to 1st Sergt. vice Eyler, transferred ; wounded at Kenesaw Mountain June 20, 1864. 5th Sergt, John S. Eyler ; promoted to 1st Sergt. vice Holmes, promoted, transferred Sept. 1863. Sergt., David A. Elder ; transferred to Company C, vice Hanley, Dec, 1863. 1st Corporal, Clinton Arnold. 2nd Corp. 2nd Sol. R. Moneysmith ; wounded at Stone River Jan. 2, 1863 ; transferred to C. V. R. May 1, 1864. 3d Corp., R. Z., Leffingwell ; promoted to Sergt. vice Eyler, promoted. 4th Corp. John Wentz; promoted to Sergt.; wounded at Chickamauga; killed at Lookout Mountain Nov. 24, 1863. 5th, Corp. William P. Brey; promoted to Sergt. March 1, 1864; killed June18, 1864 6th Corp., Alex R. McCoy; honorably discharged at end of war. 7th Corp., W. A. Hill; died Jan. 10, 1863, from wounds at Stone River, Tenn. 8th Corp., George W. Quik; discharged March 21, 1863, at Louisville, Ky. 1st Musician, James W. Wells ; 1862, near Nashville, Tenn. 2d “ Calvin Richard ; honorably discharged at end of war. Teamster, Israel Downing ; honorably discharged at end of war. Privates. Allgire, Joshua; Nov. 5, 1862, at Glasgow, Ky. Allgire, Alpheus ; captured at Dalton, Ga., Aug. 14, 1864. Albert, William; honorably discharged at end of war. Allen, William T.; killed June 16, 1864, near Kenesaw, Ga. Ayres, Andrew ; discharged March 30, 1863, at Camp Dennison, 0. Ammons, Hiram; died March 10, 1863, at Murfreesboro, Tenn. Allen, James L.; wounded at Stone River Jan. 2, 1863. Bitler, Harrison ; died Nov. 29, 1864, at Nashville, Tenn. Beerington, John ; honorably discharged at end of the war. Bryan, Emanuel ; " “ Burk, Edward ; " " " " Barrett, W. R.; discharged Dec. 1862, at Bowling Green, Ky. Binkley, W. H. Bryan, Enos ; slightly wounded at Stone River and taken prisoner. Booth, Michael died of wounds received at Stone River Feb. 27, 1863, at Nashville, Tenn. Carpenter, Charles W.; missing in action at Chickamauga Sept. 19, '63. Casto, Benj. killed June 21, 1864, at Kenesaw, Ga. Conner, Alex. W.; wounded at Stone River Jan. 2, 1863. Cleuse, W. M.; wounded at Lookout Mountain Nov. 24, 1863. Cleuse, Jacob ; transferred to U. S. Engineers July 29, 1864. Cable, George W.; wounded at Chickamauga, Tenn. Cluff, Marcus discharged Feb. 7, 1863, at Bowling Green, Ky. - 20 - Downing, Israel ; discharged June 22,1865. Davis, John ; died Dec. 22, 1862, at Bowling Green, Ky. Dennison, Geo.; discharged June 24, 1865. Estell, Thomas J.; discharged Feb. 15, 1863, at Nashville, Tenn. Exline, Geo. W.; discharged at end of war. Exline, S. R. ; discharged Sept. 1864. Eysenbaugh, Thos. J. ; discharged at end of war. Eyler, John S. Fisher, Benj.; wounded Dec. 5, 1864, at Nashville, Tenn. Foster, Wm. ; discharged at end of war. Foster, Davis J.; died June 28, 1863, at Louisville, Ky. Fuhrman, Henry ; promoted to Corporal vice Hill, died. Gamble, Geo. W. ; discharged at end of war. Harnly, Abraham ; killed June 20, 1864, at Kenesaw, Ga. Hickman, S. M.; discharged at end of war. Hitesman, John ; transferred to V. R. C. Nov. 30, 1863 ; died March 6, 1864. Hire, Thomas W.; wounded May 27, 1864, near Kenesaw, Ga. Hamilton, Reuben; killed at Stone River, Jan. 2, 1863. Hill, George W.; died Nov. 23, 1863, at Bowling Green, Ky. Hissler, Peter; honorably discharged, August 10, 1865. Hartzog, Benjamin S.; missing in action at Chickamaugua, Sept. 19, 1863. Johnson, Daniel ; discharged to enter marine service, March 11, 1863. Justus, John W.; died February 10, 1862, at Nashville, Tenn. Johnson, Joseph E.; honorably discharged at the end of the war. Jacobs, Henry ; discharged March 2, 1863, at Nashville, Tenn. Jackson, Simon A.; honorably discharged at the end of the war. Johnson, W. H.; transferred to V. R. C., Jan. 30, 1864. Johnson, Sylvester W.; honorably discharged at end of the war. Johnson, Wilson ; promoted to Sergt., vice Williams promoted. Krugh, W. H.; honorably discharged at end of the war. Krugh, Jacob ; honorably discharged at end of the war. Kesler, Peter ; transferred to V. R. C. Nov. 30, 1863. Kear, Benjamin F. ; honorably discharged at end of the war. Kampf, Jacob ; died of wounds received at Stone River, Tenn., .Jan. 12, 1863. Larue, Edward W.; promoted to corporal, vice Leffingwell promoted to sergeant, missing in action at Chickamauga, Sept. 20, 1863. Little, George W.; died Jan. 15, 1863, of wounds received at Stone River. Leathers, Harrison ; transferred to V. R. C. Nov. 30, 1864. Lichty, John F.; died Feb. 4, 1863, at Murfreesboro', Tenn. Miller, Cornelius H.; died March 14, 1863, at Murfreesboro', Tenn. Mann, James O. died March 18, 1862, at Camp Dennison, Ohio. Medaugh, John ; discharged March 9, 1863, at Cincinnati, Ohio. Mortimer, G. W.; honorably discharged at end of the war. Prottsman, H. J.; died December 29, 1863, at Nashville, Tenn. Patten, John ; died December 28, 1862, at Bowling Green, Ky. Patten, George H.; died Jan. 3, 1863, at Nashville, Tenn. Pollock, Horace P.; killed at Lookout Mountain, Nov. 21, 1863. Recheet, John; Oct. 1, 1864, from hospital at Cleveland, Ohio. Roberts, W. A.; wounded at Stone River, Jan. 2, 1863. Royer, Joseph; transferred to V. R. C., Nov. 30, 1864 ; died July, 1865. Russell, John ; died Dec. 1862, at Nashville, Tenn. Scherger, Constantine ; transferred to U. S. engineers, July 29, 1862. Shinaberry, Benjamin; wounded June 18, 1864, Kenesaw, Ga. Spahr, Jesse ; killed at Stone River, January 2, 1863. Schnepp, Solomon; wounded at Stone River, January 2, 1863. Shaffer, George ; died Jan 29, 1863, of wounds received at Stone River. Thompson, Thomas; honorably discharged at end of the war. Tucker, Alfred ; transferred to V. R. C. May 1, 1866. Vail, W. G.; honorably discharged at end of the war. Wentz, George ; honorably discharged at end of the war. Warren, H. B.; died June 3, 1864, at Bridgeport, Alabama. Welch, Israel S.; wounded at Kenesaw, Ga. Wyandt, Henry ; died May 31, 1863, at Murfreesboro, Tenn. Weagler, Albert ; died Nov. 15, 1862, at Silver Spring, Ky. Walter, Christopher ; died Dec. 24, 1863. Whipple, David R.; died Jan. 29, 1863, at Murfreesboro, Tenn. Company F, Ninety-ninth Regiment, O. V. I. James K. Miller, enlisted Sept. 1, 1861 ; died at Shiloh May, 1862. Charles M. Gorden, Corporal, enlisted August 15, 1862; died .June 19, 1865. Philip King, enlisted 1862; killed at Nashville, Tenn. Henry King, enlisted 1862; wounded and discharged 1864. George W. Mapes, enlisted 1862; killed at Murfreesboro. James F. Mapes, enlisted 1862 ; discharged 1865. Henry C. Morrison, Sergeant, enlisted August 14, 1862 ; discharged March 4, 1864. Jacob Kesler, enlisted 1864 ; discharged 1865. George Shaffer, enlisted April; 1862 ; wounded at Stone River, died 1863. 158 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Company E, Ninety-ninth Regiment, O. V. I. David. Counseller, enlisted Sept. 11, 1862 ; discharged 1865. One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry—National Guard. This was one of the several Cincinnati hundred-day regiments which was filled largely by men who had seen service in the earlier part of the war. It first rendezvoused at Camp Dennison, but moved ten days later to Camp Chase, where, on May 11, 1864, it was armed and mustered into the United States service. On the 20th of May it went by the Baltimore and Ohio Railway to Washington City, where it went into barrack quarters. On the 1st of June it was put on duty at Point Lookout, Maryland, there being then twenty-two thousand rebel prisoners held at this place. Here the regiment remained on duty until August 22d, when it was taken to Baltimore and thence to Camp Chase, where it was mustered out of service on the 26th of A ugust, 1864. Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment, O. N. G. Jacob B. Lichty, enlisted May 2, 1864 ; discharged Aug. 6, 1864. Wm. H. Witten, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Aug. 6, 1864. Adam Smith, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged April 12, 1864. John Hie, enlisted May 2, 1864 ; discharged Aug. 6, 1864. David Wallack, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Aug. 26, 1864. John Everett, Corporal, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Sept. 12, 1864. John J. Switzer, Corporal, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Sept. 12, 1864 Wm. E. Weagley, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Aug. 6, 1864. Wm. G. Walters, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Aug. 26, 1864. Wesley J. Walters, enlisted May 2, 1864, discharged Aug. 26, 1864. Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment, O. V. I. Moses H. McCoy, Corporal, enlisted May, 1864; discharged Aug. 1864. J. McConnell, Corporal, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Oct. 25, 1865. Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment, 0. N. G. Daniel McManama, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Aug. 24, 1864. John E. Ramsey, enlisted Feb. 27, 1865; discharged Sept. 7, 1865. Joseph Larue, Sergeant, enlisted May 2, 1864 ; discharged Aug. 26, 1864. Company I, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment, O. N. G. William Sheets, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Aug. 26, 1864. George Sheets, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Aug. 26, 1864. S. L. Ramsey, enlisted May 2, 1864; died Sept. 9, 1864. John Wilkins, enlisted May 2, 1864, discharged Aug. 26, 1864. Lewis F. Switzer, enlisted May 2, 1864; discharged Sept. 12, 1864. Company G, Twentieth Regiment, O. V. I. John G. Spahr, enlisted Oct. 1, 1862; discharged July 14, 1863. Isaac Balliet, enlisted Oct. 1, 1862; discharged July 23, 1863. John Murphy, enlisted Oct. 6, 1862; discharged July, 1864. Joseph Wert, enlisted Oct. 1, 1862; discharged July 1, 1863. Nicholas Gersler, enlisted Oct. 1, 1862; discharged July 1, 1863. Littleton L. Roberts, enlisted October 1, 1862; discharged July 1, 1863. Ebson Stuart, enlisted October, 1862; discharged July, 1803. Frederick Reed, enlisted Sept. 20, 1863 ; discharged Aug. 28, 1865. Company B, Twentieth Regiment, O. V. I. Johnson Mans, enlisted Sept. 15, 1861; discharged Sept. 24, 1864. Company E, Thirtieth In. B. Josiah Bowers, enlisted May 18, 1861 ; discharged Oct. 15, 1861. R. J. Wybourn, enlisted July, 1861 ; discharged February, 1865. Company C, Thirtieth Regiment, O. V. I. Joseph B. Fronfield, enlisted Feb. 15, 1863; discharged Feb. 15, 1864. Martin I. Beauchamp, enlisted September, 1863; discharged Sept. 1, 1864. Fifth Ohio Battery. J. Stephens, private, enlisted 1861; discharged 1863. V. Stevens, private, enlisted 1861; discharged 1863. P. C. Grendon, private, enlisted 1861; discharged 1864. Samuel Grendon, enlisted 1861; discharged 1864. Ephraim B. Grendon, enlisted 1861; discharged 1864. McLaughlus' Squadron of Cavalry. Robert Fife, Co. B, enlisted August, 1862; discharged June, 1865. Adam Merrick, Co. A, enlisted August, 1862; discharged June, 1865. Eli Taylor, Co. A, enlisted October, 1861; discharged October, 1864. John Stanter, Co. A, enlisted October, 1861 ; discharged October, 1864. Nathaniel Allen, Co. B, enlisted August, 1862; discharged 1865. James Merrick, Co. A, enlisted October, 1861; discharged October, 1864. Company F, Thirty-second Regiment, O. V. I. John J. Friedley, enlisted Feb. 28, 1865; discharged July 30, 1865. Joseph Roether, killed at Murfreesboro', 1863. Company B, Thirty-second Regiment, O. V. I. Wm. G. Walters, enlisted Sept. 22, 1864; discharged May 11, 1865. Company C, Forty-seventh Regiment, O. V. V. I. Wilson S. Gauze, enlisted Oct. 6, 1861; discharged August 28, 1865. L. D. Avery, enlisted Oct. 6, 1861; discharged Nov. 1865. Lafayette Riker, enlisted Sept. 1861 discharged Dec. 1865. Eli Biker, enlisted Sept. 1861; died July, 1863. Company D, Forty-seventh Regiment, O. V. V. I. Amos W. Chilcote, enlisted Sept. 21, 1864; discharged May 31, 1865.: Company G, Forty-seventh Regiment, O. V. V. I. Albert Foust, enlisted Sept. 21, 1864; discharged May 31, 1865. John Medougle, enlisted Sept. 21, 1864; discharged March 14, 1865. Company B, Forty-seventh Regiment, O. V. V. I. G. W. Baston, enlisted Sept. 20, 1864; discharged June 7, 1865. Company F Sixty-fourth Regiment, O. V. I. C. H. Spahr, enlisted Oct. 2, 1861; died at Nashville, Tenn., May 1862. Reuben Ramsey, enlisted Oct. 1861; killed at Murfreesboro', Dec. 3 Elijah Ramsey, enlisted Oct. 1861; killed at Chattanooga, June 1864. Granberry Ramsey, enlisted Oct. 1862; died at Nashville, Tenn., 26, 1862. George W. Alexander, enlisted Sept. 1864; discharged June 7, 1865 Company G, Sixty-fourth Regiment, 0. V. I. Philip Kensden, enlisted Oct. 10, 1864; discharged August 2, 1865. Company E, Sixty-fourth Regiment, O. V. I. Wilfred Copper, enlisted Sept. 1864; discharged July 1, 1865. George S. Chilcote, enlisted Feb. 1863; discharged Nov. 1865. Company B, Eighty-first Regiment, O. V. I. Edward Carmean, enlisted 1863; discharged July 17, 1865. John Jorden, enlisted August 30, 1861; discharged Sept. 20, 1864. Company K, Eighty-first Regiment, 0. V. I. Peter Snyder, enlisted August 21, 1862; discharged July 18, 1865. Company H, Eighty-first Regiment, O. V. I. Jacob C. Hurless, enlisted August 26, 1862; discharged July 13, Company A, Eighty-first Regiment, O. V. I. G. H. Rider, enlisted August 5, 1862; discharged July 22, 1865. Samuel S. Rider, enlisted July 15, 1862; discharged July 22, 1865 HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 159 Company F, One Hundred and Ninety-sixth Regiment, O. V. I. Peter Bolenbaugh, enlisted March 14, 1865; discharged Sept. 11, 1865. Franklin Baker, enlisted March 14, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 11, 1865. George Mericle, enlisted March 13, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 11, 1865. Company B, One Hundred and Ninety-second Regiment, O. V. I. Thomas F. Priddy, enlisted Feb. 11, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. Shaffner M. Gilliland, enlisted Jan. 21, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. Francis T. Gilliland, enlisted Jan. 21, 1865; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. Enoch M. Hoaglin, enlisted Jan. 21, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. Matthias M. Rittenhouse, enlisted Feb. 11, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. John C. Ramsey, enlisted Feb. 11, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. John Everett, Corporal, enlisted Feb. 22, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. Company D, One Hundred and Ninety-second Regiment, 0. V. I. Wm. H. Noel, enlisted Jan. 27, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 1865. Company C, One Hundred and Ninety-second Regiment, 0. V. I. Daniel Snyder, enlisted Feb. 3, 1865 ; discharged Sept. 1, 1865. MISCELLANEOUS. Amos Tony, Co. A, 151st 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1864. Franklin Carlo, Co. I, 134th 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1864. Isaac N. Glover, Corporal, Co. H, 132d 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1864. Felix B. Shaw, Co. I, 3d 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1861 ; discharged Feb. 1866. Theodore P. Aldrich, Co. E, 78th, enlisted July, 1864 ; discharged July, 1865. Charles Landon, Co. C, 3d 0. V. I., enlisted July, 1861; discharged Oct. 1861. Wm. Sands, Co. G, 2d 0. H. Art., enlisted June, 1863 ; discharged Dec. 1865. James Long, Co. H, 59th N. Y. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1861 ; discharged May, 1863. James Heffelfinger, Co. I, 3d 0. V. I., enlisted. April, 1861 ; discharged August, 1861. James Heffelfinger, Co. B, 43d 0. V. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1861 ; discharged Sept. 1865. W m T. Sterling Co. K, 96th 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1862 ; discharged August, 1865. Frederick Giessler, Co. C, 41st 0. V. I., enlisted .Sept. 1864; discharged June, 1865. David Sterling, Co. F, 31st 0. V. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1861; discharged Sept. 1865. John Albright, Co. D, 82d 0. V. V. I., enlisted Dec. 1861 ; discharged July, 1865. Samuel R. Glover, Co. H, 132c1 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864; discharged Sept. 1864. John W. Brubaker, Co. B., 102d 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1861 ; discharged Jan. 1863. William Nicely, Co. G, 43d 0. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1864 ; discharged June, 1865. George E. Brubaker, enlisted May, 1864 ; died August, 1864. Andy Agler, Co. H, 129th 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1864. James P. Brewer. Michael Clouse, Co. A, 41st 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1864; discharged May, 1865. Harrison L. Allen, Co. E, 7th 0: V. I., enlisted April, 1861 ; discharged July, 1864. John A. Switzer, Co. D, 9th 0. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1862 ; discharged July, 1865. Wesley Keslar, 4th 0. V. I., enlisted 1862; discharged July, 1865. Wilson Adelblue, Co. C, 169th 0. N G., enlisted May, 1864; discharged Sept. 1864. Samuel Johnston, Co. D, 34th O. V. I., enlisted 1862 ; discharged 1864. Reuben Hooks, Co. A, 41st 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1864 ; discharged June, 1865. Peter Swoveland, Corporal, Co. H, 0. V. V. Cav., enlisted Sept. 6; discharged July, 180. George W. Briggs, Sergeant, Co. H, 139th 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864; discharged Sept. 1864. Francis Lewis, Co. D, 27th U. S. C. T., enlisted Oct. 1864; discharged Oct. 1865. John Wyandt, Co. F, 41st 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1864; discharged June. 1865. Josiah Bowers, Co. E, 188th 0. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1864; discharged Sept. 1865. Isaac W. McElwain, Co. F, 154th 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1864. William H. Gibson, Co. G, 34th 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1861 ; discharged March, 1862. John B. Melchi, Co. L, Heavy Art., enlisted Jan. 1863 ; discharged July, 1865. Richard Pearson, Sergeant, Co. G, 110th, enlisted Aug. 1862; discharged June, 1865. Solomon R. Moneysmith, Corporal, Co. A, 5th 0. V. I., enlisted July, 1862 ; discharged July, 1865. James R. Crooks, Sergeant, Co. B, 178th 0. V. I.; discharged May, 1865. Henry Zeller, Corporal, Co. F, 118th 0. V. I., enlisted Aug. 1862; discharged June, 1865. Abraham Hawkins, Co. D., 69th 0. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1861.; discharged July, 1865. William W. Beall, Co. E, 80th 0. V. I., enlisted Feb. 1862; discharged Dec. 1862. William W. Beall, Co. E, 129th 0. V. I., enlisted Feb. 1863 ; discharged March. 1864. Henry A.. Tindall, Co. G, 54th 0. V. I., enlisted Feb. 1864 ; discharged Aug. 1865. Fredrick Lillich, 1st Lieutenant, Co. B, 2d 0. M., enlisted July, 1863 ; discharged 1864. James H. Sims, Co. C, 34th 0. V. I., enlisted 1863 ; discharged August, 1865.. Henry S. Hudspeth, Co. H, 169th 0. V. I., enlisted May, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1864. Fred. Reed, Co. G, 2d O. Heavy Art., enlisted Sept. 1861 ; discharged Aug. 1863. William Frick, Co. F, 38th 0. V. I., enlisted Jan. 1863; discharged July, 1865. John Hilton, Co. C, 74th Ind., enlisted July, 1862; discharged August, 1865. Jesse Longsworth, Co. G. James H. Bell, Co. D, 160th 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864; discharged Sept. 1864. Benj. P. Filler, Co. .F, 66th 0. V. I., enlisted Aug. 1862 ; discharged June, 1865. John Whitcraft, Co. B, 31st 0. V. I.,. enlisted Aug. 1861 ; discharged Sept. 1864. Edward Jolley, Co. D, 180th 0. V. I., enlisted Sept. 1864 ; discharged June, 1865. Levi Barber, Co. E, 118th 0. V. I., enlisted July, 1862; died April 1, 1864. Henry Weller, Co. F, 65th 0. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1862; discharged Aug. 18e3. Justice Rutan, Co. I, 9th 0. V. Cav., enlisted Oct. 1863 ; discharged July, 1865. William Frech, Co. F, 38th 0. V. I., enlisted Jan. 1863; discharged July. 1865. Alex. F. McVicker, Co. K, 118th 0. V. I., enlisted Oct. 1863. William W. Hillerman, Co. F, 135th 0. N. G., enlisted May, 1864 ; discharged Sept. 1864. THE FOUNDERS OF VAN WERT. In 1834, James W. Riley, of Mercer County, concluded to found a town on sections 12 and 13 in Pleasant Township, Van Wert County. This selection was deemed judicious, as the location was central, besides being at that point of the Middle Fork of the Little Auglaize River, at which the stream breaks through the Van Wert Ridge, which, in ages remote, formed the southern shore of the great lake of the north. In October, 1834, Mr. Riley went to Piqua, where, by previous arrangement, he met Peter Aughenbaugh of Dayton, George Marsh of Athens, and W. B. Hedges of Mercer County. After setting forth his plans, an article of agreement was entered into on October 24, 1834, under which they formed a partnership under the title of P. Aughenbaugh & Co., "for the purpose of mutual and joint benefit," as set forth in the instrument. They had previously purchased of the United States the northwest quarter and the west half of the northeast quarter of section 13 in Pleasant Township, containing 240 acres, on which to lay out a town, and the "said land was to be used for no other purpose." Soon after this purchase they bought additional lands in sections 12 and 13 and 160 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. other contiguous sections in Pleasant. Township. In March, 1835, James W. Riley, then Deputy Surveyor of Mercer County, proceeded with a surveying party and laid out the original plat of the town of Van Wert. The work of surveying and platting was completed March 30, 1835, and a report made to Justin Hamilton, Surveyor of Mercer County, which was approved and recorded the following May. The article of agreement herein referred to is hereto annexed, and is as follows:.— Agreement entered into between P. Aughenbaugh, George Marsh, James W. Riley, and W. B. Hedges for the purpose of laying out the town of Van Wert. This article of agreement, made at Piqua in Mercer County and State of Ohio, witnesseth : That the contracting parties hereto, subscribing for the purpose of mutual aid and joint benefit, have each paid in the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars as a joint fund, and with which they have already become the purchasers of the northwest quarter of section 13 and the west half of the northeast quarter of said section 13, of township number 2 south, range number 2, in the county of Van Wert and State of Ohio, in the name of George Marsh and J. W. Riley 240 acres, and the north quarter of section 13 and east half of northeast quarter of section 14 of township number 2 north, and range number 2 east, in the county of Paulding in the State of. Ohio 240 acres, in the name of W. Botts Hedges, making in all 480 acres, and the whole purchase money $600, all of which lands are by virtue hereof to be owned in common and holden for the mutual and joint benefit of all the contracting parties in the name and firm of P. Aughenbaugh & Co. during the continuance of these presents. And whenever it may become necessary to appoint special agent or agents, attorney or attorneys of said company, and in their name to transact general or special business, whether it may be one or more of the company or another individual or individuals, each agrees to the other to promptly furnish proper powers of attorney or other grants for the transaction of business, and particularly for conveyance. It is, moreover, mutually agreed by the contracting parties that the firm shall continue for three years hereafter, and that either party, his heirs or administrators, shall not be entitled to a division of lots or lands, or in any other, secede from the firm (except by selling his share as joint tenant or partner upon the same condition and time), and that after such time shall have elapsed either party may call for and demand a division of his interest, which shall be made in equal proportion of all lands, lots, notes, interest, and which may then be on hand, and otherwise such firm shall continue after the expiration of said time, with as full powers as before, until these presents be fully revoked. The costs of purchase shall be paid to each proprietor as aforesaid when so much money shall be paid as will pay the same and expense's attending the sales, and the balance of the funds arising from the sales may from time to time by each be withdrawn, as per share, or laid out in speculations for the benefit of the parties as shall best suit the company. It is the object of the parties hereto annexed to lay out towns on each of the tracts so purchased as aforesaid, and to sell and dispose of the same for the mutual benefit of all, so soon as the same can be done consistent with the interest of the company, and the said lands are to be used for no other purposes, and each pledges himself to the other to endeavor to his utmost to promote the interest of the company. And this article is to all intents and purposes to be held good and valid according to its legal sense, meaning, and intent, and as contracted by the laws regulating contracts as if made in more ample and better form—dated at Piqua, October 24, 1834. PETER AUGHENBAUGH. [SEAL.] GEORGE MARSH. [SEAL.] JAMES WATSON RILEY. [SEAL.] W.B. HEDGES. [SEAL.] Signed, sealed, and acknowledged in presence of RUFUS W. STEARNS, B. LEAVELL. On the 24th day of October, 1834, Peter Aughenbaugh and George Marsh of the county of Montgomery, Ohio, and James Watson Riley and W. B. Hedges, of Mercer County, Ohio, the above contracting parties, came personally before me, the President of the Corporation of the town of Piqua, and acknowledged the signing and the sealing of t above covenant as their .act and deed for the purpose therein expresse and also that they admit the same to be recorded in each of the counties wherein the lands are situated. Given under my hand and seal the date above written. THOMAS PRICE, [SEAL] President Entered of record, Nov. 5, 1834
COUNTY SEAT. In consideration of the permanent location of the seat of justice at Van Wert, the proprietors of the town gave to the county certain lots within the original plat, and certain lands adjacent thereto, as set forth and described in the following Deed :—Peter Aughenbaugh & Co. to Van Wert County :- Know all .men that I, James Watson Riley, for and on my own account, and as agent and attorney in fact for Peter Aughenbaugh and Elizabeth his wife, and George Marsh and Caroline his wife, as proprietors of the town of Van Wert, in the county of Van Wert and State of' Ohio, under the name and firm of Peter Aughenbaugh & Co., in consideration of a contract heretofore made between said Peter Aughenbaugh & Co., Lewis Dills, James Fergus, and Justice Hamilton, commissioners appointed by joint resolution of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio to locate the seat of justice for the county of Van Wert, whereby the following described real estate was given as a donation to the county of Van Wert upon condition that the seat of justice should be fixed at the town of Van Wert, which condition was complied with by said commissioners, and accepted by the county through her constituted authorities, and by .authority of regularly executed powers of attorney from the said Peter and Elizabeth Aughenbaugh, and George and Caroline Marsh, duly recorded upon pages three hundred and fifty-six (356), and three hundred and fifty-seven (357), and four hundred and ninety (490) of Book E, Mercer County, Ohio Records, do by these presents release, convey, and confirm unto Henry Reichard, Win. Purdy, and .Joseph Johnson, as commissioners of the county of Van Wert, ill the State of Ohio, for the time being, and their successors in office, for the use of the county forever, all the lots of odd numbers on the original plat of said town of Van Wert from number one to number seventy-seven, inclusive, saving and excepting number three, which is set apart as a school lot, and so recorded; and all of the east half of the northwest quarter, and the northwest quarter of the northwest quarter of section number thirteen in township number two, south of range number two east, not laid out in lots, streets, or alleys, or appropriated as commons on the original plat, supposed to be about one hundred acres, but be the same more or less according to the legitimate subdivision of the section: To have and to hold the same unto the said commissioners and their successors for the use of the county of Van Wert forever: Hereby covenanting that the title hereby conveyed is clear, free, and unencumbered, and that the said party of the first part will warrant and defend the same against all persons claiming or to claim by, from, or under them, their heirs or assigns. In witness whereof the said James Watson Riley, for and on his own account, and as agent and attorney in fact as aforesaid, together with Susan Q. Riley, the wife of said James Watson Riley, who releases her dower in said premises, have hereunto set their hands and seals at St. Marys, this twelfth day of April, A. D. eighteen hundred and thirty-eight. JAMES WATSON RILEY. [SEAL.] SUSAN Q. RILEY. [SEAL.] PETER AUGHENBAUGH. [SEAL] ELIZABETH AUGHENBAUGH. [SEAL] GEORGE MARSH. [SEAL] CAROLINE MARSH. [SEAL.] By JAMES WATSON RILEY, Attorney in Fact. Signed, sealed, and acknowledged in the presence of B. F. SCHROEDER. CALEB MAJOR.
HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 163 The State of Ohio, Mercer County ss: On the twelfth day of April, A. D. eighteen hundred and thirty-eight, came James Watson Riley before me, the undersigned, and acknowledged the signing and sealing of the above deed on his own account, and as attorney, for the purpose therein specified; and also Susan Q. Riley, the wife of said James, who, upon a separate examination, declared that she signed the same voluntarily, knowing the contents thereof, and was still satisfied therewith. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal. CALEB MAJOR, J. P. [SEAL.] VAN WERT COUNTY, OHIO, Recorder's Office, March 9, 1839. This deed was received and recorded this day. Attest: CHARLES MOUNT, Recorder. At a Session of the Commissioners held at Willshire March 6,1838, it was ordered " That one hundred and forty lots be laid out on the land belonging to the county, in order to fill out and make square in form the original surveyed and recorded plat of the town of Van Wert, and that the same be known as the County's addition to the town of Van Wert; and be it further ordered, That Martin B. Wilson be and hereby is appointed to survey and lay off the same, and that after he is duly qualified he shall, after having selected and qualified chain carriers, markers, etc., proceed on the 15th or 16th of March next, to lay off the aforesaid number of lots in the same manlier as the lots are laid out on the original recorded plat. Ordered, That the lots in the town of Van Wert which belong to the county be offered at public sale on Tuesday, the 22d day of May, A. D. 1838." Under the provisions of these orders the lots were duly laid off and platted in March and offered at public sale May 22, 1838, at which date lots number 1, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 29, 31, 35, 37, 41, 43, 47, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59, 61, 63, 65, 67, 69, 71, 73, 75, and 77 were sold. At a Session of the Commissioners held March 23d, 1839, it was "Ordered, That the Auditor notify John G. Morse, County Surveyor, to survey a number of town lots in the northwest addition of Van Wert," and further " Ordered, that the lots in the town of Van Wert which belong to the county be offered at public sale on Wednesday, the 22d day of May, A. D. 1839." At this sale sixty-nine (69) lots were sold. The purchasers' names and the numbers of the lots purchased will appear by reference to " Early Proceedings of the County Commissioners," found elsewhere in this volume. INCIDENTS AND REMINISCENCES OF EARLY DAYS. BY AN OLD PIONEER. 1837-39. In the fall of 1838 the startling intelligence that a small boy by the name of Manley was lost in the woods, flew over the settlement in the southwest part of the county, and soon about one hundred men were in search of the lost child. The parents of the child lived in the northwestern part of Wiltshire Township, and the whole country north of them for many miles was an unbroken wilderness, except two or three families living some six miles north. It was on Saturday the boy was lost. He started from the house to go a short distance into the woods, where his father and an older brother were at work, and mi sing his course, wandered away from home. An unsuccessful search was made Saturday evening and the following night by the family and a few neighbors who had been apprised of the fact. Early Sunday m rning the word that a boy was lost was rapidly carried to the settlers for miles around, and by night there were perhaps one hundred men at Mr. Manley's house. Those who had been on the search reported at night that no trace of the lost boy had been discovered. Monday morning, as soon as it was light enough to see to travel, the company started out in an easterly direction, went in a line abreast so near each other that each one could see those nearest to him on his right and left. In this way they travelled some five miles easterly, then turned to the left, and spread over ground north of that traversed and returned to the cabin of Mr. Manley. After getting such refreshments as could be obtained at Mr. M.'s and a few kind neighbors, the company started again in a northerly direction. Nearly every man carried a rifle. A signal for finding the boy was agreed upon to be the firing of three guns in succession, and then if the boy was found alive a volley by as many as knew the fact. That arrangement gave each one the privilege of shooting a wolf or bear, should he chance to meet one, without disturbing the search, as no shooting was to apply to the object of the search except three guns in immediate succession at one point or place. Most of us had now been one night with the family whose boy, if alive, was in the wilds of the forest, liable to be torn in pieces by wild beasts, and we men in deep sympathy with the distressed and weeping parents, brothers and sisters of time lost child. For two nights he had already been in the woods without food or shelter. Our company was again. spreading out in line for another search, and had moved something like a half mile from the house when word came to the centre that the boy was found and was then some six miles north, at the house of a Mr. Johns, alive and well. The three signals were given, and such a scene followed as language cannot describe. Every one discharged his rifle, every one hallooed, threw up his hat, and in the wildest enthusiasm and joy ran back to the house to congratulate the heart-stricken family on the safety of their child ; after which the people returned to their homes, it now being nearly night. The boy had been in the woods two days and two nights, during which time he wandered about seven miles from his home, came to the cabin of a Mr. Johns, who had not as yet heard that the boy was lost; however, he soon obtained the information from the boy himself. They took him in and gave him something to eat, and learned his name. Thinking that the boy was too weak to go home that day, Mr. J. went immediately to inform the friends of his whereabouts. The boy said that he slept in a hollow log one night, and that a very pretty little spotted dog came to him and slept. with him. It is supposed that little spotted dog was a skunk. It was no infrequent thing for persons to get lost in the woods and lie out one night. I remember of two or three instances of old women getting lost and lying out a night in the woods, and be wonderfully tormented by the tens of thousands of hungry mosquitoes that were constantly swarming about them. In the early spring of 1838 our provisions were getting short, and it became necessary that a new supply should be obtained, and for the purpose of gettingthis supply my eldest brother started with an ox-team for a tramp mill owned by a Mr. East, near Lima. At this time the small creeks were full of water, consequently the roads were unusually muddy. When he left home it was arranged that I should meet him on the fourth day of his absence at the Little Auglaize Creek to assist in crossing the same. In pursuance of this agreement I started pretty early on the morning of the fourth day after he left home, and arrived about noon at the crossing of the Little Auglaize, where, awaiting his arrival until it was quite dark, and being satisfied he would not come that evening, retraced my steps some two miles back to the house of Mr. 0. Stacy, stayed over night there, and next morning, as soon as one could see to travel, again started eastward to meet him ; went some ten miles, met him at the Big Auglaize River a little before noon, about where the railroad crosses now. We drove down to Mr. Clawson's, the last house we should pass in entering the long woods. Here we got dinner, and some provisions for supper and breakfast; also some straw, with a view of camping out the following night. That afternoon we drove some three or four miles, arriving in the evening on the banks of the Middle Jennings Creek, near where Delphos now stands. Here we took our oxen from the wagon, cut down a few saplings, so as to form a pen about twenty-five or thirty feet square, in which we placed our oxen and fed them for the night, partook of our cold grub, and about nine or ten o'clock crawled into our wagons to sleep. We did not remain quiet in this condition but for a short time, when the wolves began a terrible howling, apparently in three or four directions but a short distance from us, at which I was somewhat alarmed, and got up and went, to where .we had left the axe, got it, and took it into the wagon with us. We were destined to have more imaginary trouble, for soon afterwards we heard a rustling noise in the leaves which we supposed to be wolves coming to attack our oxen. We sprang up with axes to frighten them off. The moon was shining, consequently the woods were pretty well lighted up. After having examined the ox-pen and the surrounding 164 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. forest for a short distance, we could see no ravenous beasts or anything other than ourselves, and went back again to our wagon to rest. The wolves continued their howling at intervals. In a short time we again heard the rustling noise in the leaves, at which we carefully pulled aside a portion of our wagon cover to see if the wolves were again upon us. This occurred several times and prevented us from sleeping. In the mean time the night had become quite cold, and ice was forming on the water, and now we were too chilly and cold to sleep in the wagon, so we got up, built a good birch fire near our ox-pen, took the cover from our wagon, and constructed a kind of tent close by the fire, in which we put some straw we had in the wagon; here we tried to get some. rest. It was now about midnight ; the wolves were still saluting us occasionally with their hideous howling. At last daylight broke upon us, and we were up again preparing for our homeward journey. Upon examination of affairs in the morning we were satisfied that the wolves had made no attempt to attack us or our oxen; that our scare came only from the wind at intervals blowing and disturbing some dry leaves on a young white-oak tree standing close to our wagon. We examined the ford of this creek and were satisfied we could not take our wagon through without wetting our sacks of corn meal. We then went up the creek some thirty or forty rods, and found a beaver dam which had been constructed some time in the century past; here seemed to be the most favorable place to cross, but to make the thing sure of success we concluded to make a sounding of the depth of water. The creek had overflowed its banks, and ice a quarter to a half inch thick had formed during the previous night. Taking, up a good substantial stick, with which to break the ice, I waded to the channel and by sounding with my stick and person found that we could pass through at this place by placing our meal sacks on top of the wagon box. I went back to our camping ground, cut a number of small poles into such lengths as would reach across and lie upon the top of our wagon box, upon which we placed the sacks, hitched on our team, cut a road to Beaver Dam, and made the crossing without damage to the load. Some time about the middle of Thursday we arrived at the Little Auglaize. This stream was also overflowing its channel ; a flat on the eastern side was covered with water some ten or twelve rods in width ; here we halted, and in order to make a crossing we had to carry the sacks across on our shoulders. To effect this we had to wade through the overflow, some places two feet deep, carrying the sacks on our shoulders to a large black walnut log that had been felled across the channel ; upon this log we would lay our sacks, then climb up and take them across to dry ground. In this manner we conveyed our load over the stream. The next thing was to get our oxen and wagon across, which was done as follows : we prepared a strip of line bark some forty feet long, drove the oxen and wagon through the overflow to the channel, which was seven or eight feet deep; here we loosened the oxen from the wagon and made them swim across, then tied the bark to the end of the wagon tongue and placed it as near the channel as we could, then I swam across with the other end of the bark, to which we hitched the oxen and drew the wagon across. It, however, went down some with the current of the stream, which brought the side to the bank, so as to give us some trouble to get it out of the water; also the box came very near leaving the wagon and swimming down the stream. The day was now pretty warm and pleasant, the ice having all melted before we reached this stream. We reloaded our wagon and started again for our homes. Having a much better road than the one just passed over, we got along quite comfortable until we came within a mile or so of home. It was now night, and in attempting to ford the creek, some two miles west of town at a point a mile or so above where the Fort Wayne road crosses, the wheels of the wagon became tangled by a dry black ash pole, which had formerly been used by the Indians for a coon choker. We were in water about two feet deep, and the pole had got through the spokes of the hind wheels in such a manner that it completely locked them and brought us to a dead halt. Before we could extricate ourselves from this difficulty we were compelled to chop the pole in two. It was a foot or so under the surface of the water, and it was now dark. We worked perhaps more than one hour before we were liberated, and did not reach home until near midnight. Something more than five days had been occupied in this trip. The accessions to town this year were Robert Gilliland, County Com. missioner ; E. R. Wells, County Auditor ; Joseph Gleason, County Recorder and Justice of Peace and tavern-keeper ; Thomas R. Mott, merchant.; Mr. Clayton, tailor ; Asahel Alderman, shoemaker ; Simeon Alderman, clergyman in the M. E. connection ; Widow Daugherty and her son Isaac, and two young men, brothers, by the name of Stripe. Jacob Stripe boarded in town for a year or so, and in the mean time built a log cabin and cleared some ground on a tract of some three hundred acres of land he had previously entered, about three miles north of town, where he commenced keeping bachelor's hail and improving his land as best he could. After having realized the ills and discomforts of a single life alone in the wilderness for some two years, he found a Miss Harvey who was willing to cheer his log cabin with her presence, as partner of his joys and sorrows. Mr. S. made it a point to attend strictly and promptly to all his own affairs and let others alone ; consequently he prospered, made a large farm, raised about him a respectable family, and is still living on the farm in independent circumstances. The other brother, William, had also entered land adjoining that of Jacob's, but he preferred to remain in town and improve as best he could the property he owned in it. He at once set to work to clear away the timber, logs, and brush that had grown upon one of his lots on the corner of Main. and Walnut streets, preparatory for further improvements. Then, in the course of another year, he built a small frame house of two rooms ; this was the first frame house in Van Wert, or within fifteen miles of it. Mr. S. did all the work on his house himself except raising the frame, although he had been raised a farmer. He also built several log cabins to rent ; also a frame shop for coopering, in which he worked for several years, filling such orders for barrels, tubs, etc., as the necessities of our little settlement required. After a residence of some three years among us, he obtained the consent of Miss Lydia Royce to become a partner in the enterprise in which he was engaged. Mr. S. died some twelve or fifteen years ago, leaving a small family and fine property that he had accumulated by industry and economy. He was a good citizen, strictly honest and temperate in all his life with us. His widow is now living in the same building he erected some thirty-five years ago. James H. Easton married a wife in Crawford County, Ohio, and commenced housekeeping in the western part of Pleasant Township, Van Wert County, this year, and directed his attention to clearing up a farm. After a residence of a year or so his wife died, and Mr. E. went back to Crawford County. During this year, 1839, Harrison Township was organized. I am not aware that the Church or Conferences in the older settled portions of the State, or any ecclesiastical authority, made any provision for the preaching of the gospel in our new county prior to the year 1839. Yet we were not without the preached word and means of worship, for among the earlier settlers were many who had been church members in their former homes, and their religious zeal did not die out when they came into this wilderness. Among them were a number of local preachers of the Methodist Episcopal connection. In the settlement in Ridge Township were Mr. William Priddy, Oliver Stacy, John Summersett, John Hill, Thomas W. Bowdell, and William H. Ramsey; and in Jennings Township, Jesse Tomlinson, all local preachers. The most of these men were untiring laborers in the cause they had espoused, holding meetings here and there in the log cabins of the settlers throughout the county. One of the earliest societies formed in the county was in Ridge Township, and known as the Ridge Society, or church, although they had no church edifice or house for public worship for a number of years later. Besides the local preachers already named, there were a number of strong members, whose example and kind labors in the cause was a power that could not be unnoticed—a light that could not be hid. This society has had an onward and upward growth until the present time they have a large membership and a fine brick edifice in which to worship. Within the last year the writer attended a meeting of this society held in their new church, at which several of the old pioneer members spoke of the early history of the society, and rejoiced that they had been permitted to live and see so much accomplished from the little beginning they helped to make about forty years ago. When we duly consider the wants of the pioneer, in a moral or reli- HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 165 oils point of view, we cannot but admire the system of itineracy of the M. E. Church. It is truly a system of aggressiveness on the power of darkness; it is the angel of God flying through the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach, and to some extent the fulfilment of the prediction that " Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased." It also seems to be in perfect accordance with the divine. commission, "Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." In this system there is no waiting for men to form themselves into a society, and then call in a minister to be their pastor and dispense the church ordinance to them ; for no sooner has the pioneer erected his log cabin, and quietly domiciled his family therein, than a Methodist preacher is standing at the door, and says, " Come, go with us, and we will do you good." Thus leading, and inviting the people to follow—searching out the rich and the poor, the civilized and the savage, making the wilderness resound with shouts of joy and anthems of praise. Faithfully, too, has it filled its mission and done its work with us. As time progressed societies were formed here and there, keeping pace with the growth of the settlement until the county is dotted all over with neat and commodious church edifices and large congregations to worship therein. It would, however, be unjust to some other denominations to give all the praise to the M. E. Church in supplying the spiritual wants of our people, for we would here award a goodly portion to the Presbyterian, Baptist, Lutheran, and some other denominations who have also labored faithfully in the cause of the Master and co-workers with the M. E. Church, and to-day have a strong hold upon the affections and moral status of our people (1876). EARLY DEEDS. Deed—George Marsh to Thomas Carter.—Know all whom it may concern that we, George Marsh and wife, Caroline Marsh, of the town of Athens in the county of Athens, and State of Ohio, for and in consideration of the sum of thirty-eight dollars and seventy-five cents to us in hand before the ensealing hereof, and truly paid by Thomas Carter, of Ames Township in the county and State aforesaid, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, have given, granted, bargained, and sold, and by these presents do freely and absolutely give, grant, bargain, sell, remise, release, convey, and confirm unto him the said Thomas Carter and his heirs and assigns forever, all of the following described real estate, to wit: Lots numbered 123, 220, and 206 in the town of Van Wert, in the of County of Van Wert and State of Ohio aforesaid; to have and to hold the said granted and bargained and described premises, together with all the privileges and appurtenances to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining to him the said Thomas Carter and his heirs and assigns forever to his and their only proper use and benefit and behoof forever. And we, the said George and Caroline Marsh, for ourselves and our heirs, executors, and administrators do covenant to and with the said Thomas Carter and his heirs and assigns forever, that we are lawfully seized and possessed of said premises in our own proper right as a good, perfect, and absolute estate of inheritance in fee simple, free and clear of all encumbrances whatsoever, and that we have full power and authority to sell and convey the same in manner and form as aforesaid; and, furthermore, that we will and our heirs, executors, and administrators, shall warrant, secure, and defend the same to him the said Thomas Carter and his heirs and assigns forever against the lawful claims and demands of all persons. In testimony whereof we the said George Marsh and Caroline, have hereunto set our hands and seals this eighteenth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-seven. Signed, sealed, and delivered in presence of us— JOHN E. ANDERSON, A. N. BROWN. GEORGE MARSH. [SEAL.] CAROLINE MARSH. [SEAL.] Acknowledged July 18, 1837, before A. N. Brown, J. P. Examined and recorded April 12, 1838. Joseph Gleason, Recorder. EARLY ENTERPRISES AND INDUSTRIES. Hotels. Daniel Cook, the first inhabitant of the town, moved into the cabin erected by the Riley surveying party, and opened what was known as "The Tavern." This building ,vas constructed of small round logs, and consisted of two rooms, each eighteen feet square, one of which was provided with a fire place. It was built for J. W. Riley by Win. Priddy and sons, of this county. In 1837 Mr. Cook erected a hewed log house, 18 by 24 feet in dimensions, and one and a half stories high. It stood near where the "Commercial Hotel" now stands. On the north side of the main building was a kitchen which was provided with a clay fireplace. The main building was divided into two apartments, one serving as dining-room, parlor, and family bed-room, and the other as office and bar-room, from which the stairway ascended to the sleeping room. As there was no door through the partition below, communication was effected through the outside doors which opened to a porch running the whole length of the building. The floors were all of hewed puncheons, and the rafters and -shingles formed the upper ceiling. Such was the "Eagle Hotel," which flourished some six years, while it passed under the management of Daniel Cook, J. Q. Graves, T. R.. Mott, and Joseph Gleason. Under the Management of Mr. Gleason it was soon made to give way to the "American House," which has since passed under the management of .John NV. Conn, H. Campbell, S. Stake, Joseph Slater, 0. W. Rose, N. D. McMillan, S. Holmes, S. Saltzgaber, C. McCoy, E. Cole, Wm. Underhill, J. Close, S. Saltzgaber, John M. Davis, and H. Saltzgaber. In 1870 the old building was removed and a brick structure erected in its stead, by Mr. Davis. It then became the " Commercial Hotel," since which time it has been conducted by several different parties. S. M. Clark opened the " Other Hotel" while the Eagle Hotel was in operation. Its only designation was the "Other Hotel." Its accommodations were meagre, as it was only a log cabin 18 by 20 feet, with a low roof, puncheon floor, and a fireplace at one end. In details and outfit it resembled the Eagle Hotel. In 1840 Mr. Clark increased his hotel facilities by the erection of a good hewed log house, two-stories in height, adjacent to the old buildings. Soon after this the building passed into other hands ; and after being occupied by several parties, among whom were Thomas Thorn, Morgan Savage, and Benj. Fisher, it was converted into a drygoods store, but was ultimately removed to give room for business blocks. Brick Kiln. William Groscost burned the first kiln of bricks, the off-bearers being two boys named James Conn and John W. Clark. Tailor Shops. William Cayton opened the first tailor shop in the building which occupied the site of the present residence of Dr. H. C. McGavren. Blacksmith Shops. In the winter of 1838 S. M. Clark opened a blacksmith shop, and engaged a young workman named John Keiser. This was the first shop in the town. Postmaster and Route Agents. At the establishment of a post-office Thomas R. Mott received the appointment as postmaster. A weekly mail was carried between here and Kalida, Putnam County. A man named Phillips was the first agent on this route, and carried the mail on horseback. A little later a route was established between here' and Greenville, and Samuel S. Brown became mail-carrier. Carpenters and Cabinetmakers. Peter Wills and Abraham Zimmerman were probably the pioneer carpenters, although Wills lived east of town. In 1842 George Dress opened a shop and worked at the trade some four or five years, when he 166 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. moved away. Jacob Thorn and Daniel Evers were also among the early workmen at this trade. In 1841 W. H. Brown established a cabinetmaker's shop, and also worked at clock and watch repairing. Streets. In 1839 the town plat was yet covered with timber, except some ten or twelve lots. While streets had been located and platted, none had yet been opened to travel. The taxes assessed for highway purposes had been applied to the opening of county roads. Under these circumstances, the few citizens of the town agreed that each should work one hour each alternate day in felling trees and opening Main Street to public travel. By this means about half a mile of the street was opened, when the citizens bestowed their labors upon Washington Street, which was soon opened to travel. Stores. As already indicated, T. R. Mott and S. M. Clark were the pioneer merchants. In 1840 Robert and J. G. Gilliland opened a store in a hewed log building, which occupied the present site of the drug store of Dr. Hines. In 1841 J. J. Hoffman succeeded T. R. Mott in this business. The next year this building was purchased by William Buckingham, who brought a stock of drygoods, groceries, and hardware from Mansfield, Ohio, and conducted a general supply store until 1852, at which time the property passed into the hands of G. S. Craft and Perrin De Puy, who continued in partnership until the next year, when De Puy retired from the firm. The business then fell into the hands of Craft alone, who conducted it until his death. He was succeeded by Messrs. 0. P. Clark and A. McGavren, who after three years retired from the business, thus closing the mercantile history of the old store-room as it was now abandoned. It was a log building, about 18 by 22 feet, and was built by Adam Himmons in 1838, in a lot fronting the public square. In 1851 Reese & Kyle erected a small two-story frame house adjoining the public square on the east, in which they opened drygoods, but in 1858 sold both house and goods to E. R. Wells. The building is now occupied as a grocery and drygoods store by D. A. Hackedorn. Wheelwrights. In 1840 Joshua and Isaiah Shaffer, both wheelwrights by occupation, built a shop on the corner of Washington and Jackson streets, and worked at their trade until it was found unremunerative, then abandoned it and bought farms. Mills. The mills of the infant settlement were known as hand-mills. They were made of hard rock, cut and sharpened like ordinary burr stones, yet much smaller in size, being generally from 15 to 20 inches in diameter, and from six to eight inches thick. Their grinding capacity ranged from three to five bushels per day. These mills were supplanted by horse mills, which ranged in grinding capacity from 30 to 40 bushels per day. Wagon Shop. In 1842 A. R. Strother opened a wagon manufacturing and repair shop, which was probably the first in the town. INSTITUTIONS. Schools. In the winter of 1839-40, E. R. Wells taught the first school term in the cabin erected by the town proprietors. About eighteen pupils attended this term The next winter term was taught by Miss Relief Morse, in the building erected by the Schaffer Brothers for a wheelwright shop. The following winter Miss Clarissa Gleason taught in the same building. She was succeeded by Jacob Parkinson, who held the position several successive terms. The first school-house erected as such, occupied a lot adjoining site of the " Van Wert House." It was used until 1855, when two frame buildings were erected, one in the east, and the other in the west part of town. These were two stories high, and contained two rooms each, thus enabling the board to grade the schools to some extent, and employ four teachers. Sunday School. Jacob Hines, of Washington, D. C., while visiting his son, Dr. P. J. Hines of this place, organized the first Sunday school by the assistance of Abel R. Strother. Mr. Hines died at Washington City Nov. 19, 1874. Court-House. The first court-house was a double log building which in time gave place to a frame house erected on the lot now occupied by Humphrey’s grocery store on Main Street. It, too, was abandoned as a court-house in 1850, and after serving as a printing office, it was moved across the street in 1859, when it served as a clothing store, and again as a furniture room, but was finally moved again, and now stands at the rear of the business of Penn & Co., where it is used as a cabinet shop. Jail. It was resolved by the commissioners that the first money arising from the sale of town lots should be appropriated to the construction of a jail. In obedience to this resolution, on July 11, 1838, a contract was awarded Jesse King, of Mercer County, he binding himself to have the work completed on or before November 1, and for which he was to receive $483. Under this contract the building was finished October 25, 1838. It was built of hewed logs, the sides being of three thicknesses, the second or middle thicknesses, being of upright logs. The doors were of several thicknesses of plank, and the whole outside covered with sheet iron. REMINISCENCE. In 1843 Thomas R. Kear moved here from Wiltshire. Mrs. Kearis still living, and converses with special interest upon the early incidents of the county and town. Speaking of the town and inhabitants to the writer, she recalls the one frame house in the town occupied by E. R. Wells, and of the first court-house and jail, to which we have already referred. Of the inhabitants in 1843, she recalls the names of E. R. Wells, James Barr, an attorney ; S. M. Clark, a blacksmith; William Buckingham, a merchant; Robert Gilliland, a county officer ; Mr. Inglewright, a blacksmith; Mr. Gleason, a hotel-keeper ; Mr. Dress, a carpenter; William Parent and Daniel Cook, farmers. Up to this time particular or extended improvements had been made. With the exception of the one frme house, the dwellings were all log cabins, and only about a dozen in in number. The streets were only being cleared out for public use, and this was chiefly done by volunteer labor. Town lots yet consisted of timber plats, while mud was encountered everywhere. It was rude, but it was germ of a promise of something better. INCORPORATION In pursuance of an act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, passed Feb. 18, 1848, incorporating the town of Van Wert and defining its boundaries, John W. Conn, P. J. Hines, and Robert Gilliland, Esqs., were authorized to put up in three public places in said town a notice to the electors thereof, that an election for one mayor, one recorder and five trustees would be held at the court-house, on Saturday, the 13th day of May, 1848. ELECTIONS. The qualified electors met, pursuant to notice, on May 13,1848 and proceeded to choose S. M. Barr and Isaac Dougherty, judges, and E. G. Jones, clerk of said election, who were severally sworn by Joseph Gleason, justice of the peace, to discharge their duties according to law, After the polls were closed and the ballots counted, they announced that Richard C. Spears was elected mayor, E. G. Jones, recorder, and J. G. HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 167 Aan Valkenburgh, Reuben Tristre, William R. Kear, Walter Buckingham, and Hiram Campbell were elected trustees of the town of Van Wert. On May 16,1848, the foregoing officers took the prescribed oath before George S. Crafts, justice of the peace. 1848, May 18. The first meeting was held ; the following members being present : Richard C. Spears, Mayor ; E. G. Jones, Recorder ; and J. G. Van Valkenburgh, Reuben Tristre, William R. Kear, Walter Buckingham, and HiraM Campbell, who organized themselves into a body • corporate. The, certificate of election of R. C. Spears as mayor was ordered to be deposited with the Clerk of the Court. 1848, May 25. James M. Barr was elected Treasurer. 1849, May 2. R. C. Spears elected Mayor ; O. W. Rose, Recorder ; and George Marsh, Reuben Tristre, John W. Penn, William Moneysmith, and Isaac Dougherty, Trustees ; Abel Strothers, Treasurer. It is worthy of remark that James M. Barr, former treasurer, received during his term of office $32.57, and expended $29.41, leaving a balance of $3.16, which he handed over to his successor in office. 1850, May 20. C. P. Edson was elected Mayor; O. W. Rose, Recorder; Isaac Toland, Joseph Gleason, J. IV. Penn, William Moneysmith, and A: R. Struthers, Trustees; A. R. Strothers, Treasurer. 1851, May 20. John W. Conn was elected Mayor ; 0. W. Rose, Recorder ; A. R. Strothers, Joseph Gleason, William Moneysmith, Benjamin McReese, and Isaac Dougherty, Trustees; A. R. Strothers, Treasurer. 1852, May 17. Same officers continued. In conformity with an act passed by the Legislature, May 3, 1852, an election was held on- 1853, April 4. John W. Conn, Mayor; C. P. Edson, Recorder ; and five trustees, viz., Joseph Gleason, Henry Robinson, Perrin De Puy, M. Howland, and O. W. Rose ; Robert Conn, Treasurer. 1854, April 3. W. C. Gallaher, Mayor ; 'L. F. Fletcher, Recorder ; J. B. Coffin, M. Mumaugh, 0. P. Clark, Jacob Fox, IN: M. D. McMullen, Trustees ; Robert Conn, Treasurer. 1855, April 2. W. C. Gallaher, Mayor; L. F. Fletcher, Recorder; W. A. Clark, R. Tristre, 0. W. Rose, Jacob Fox, Joseph Gleason, Trustees ; Robert Conn, Treasurer. 1856, April 9. George L. Jacobs, Mayor ; J. C. Johnson, Recorder ; Jacob Fox, William E. Pier, Charles Emerson, Henry Robinson, and Andrew McGavren, Trustees ; A. W. Baker, Treasurer. 1857, April 6. Davis .Johnson, Mayor ; James Webster, Recorder ; W. Baker, S. Swineford, William Smith, Thomas McKeon, and B. F. Shoop, Trustees; A. F. Priddy, Treasurer. 1858, April 5. Davis Johnson, Mayor ; James Webster, Recorder; s S. McKeon, Washington Ziegler, B. F. Shoop, G. G. Gross, and Samuel Gross, Trustees ; A. W: Baker, Treasurer. 1859, April 4. Davis Johnson, Mayor ; James Webster, Recorder ; Alonzo Conant, John W. Clark, A. McGavren, Isaac N. Alexander, and James Clark, 'Trustees; A. W. Baker, Treasurer. 1860, April 2. Davis Johnson, Mayor; W. C. Scott, Recorder ; A. Conant, John W. Clark, James Clark, G. G. Gross, and I. N. Alexander, Trustees ; A. W. Baker, Treasurer. 1861, April 7. Davis Johnson, Mayor; I. IL Kroh, Recorder ; I. N. Alexander, A. Conant, I). Newcomer, C. A. Meisheimer, and B. F. Shoop, .Trustees; A. W. Baker, Treasurer. 1862, April 15. Joseph Slater, Mayor; J. K. Kroh, Recorder; I. E. McConahay, William Patterson, I. D. Clark, Peter Cummens, and James W. Mount, Trustees, and A. W. Baker, Treasurer. August 4. J. D. Clark and William Patterson having resigned, Alonzo Conant and Emery Mullen were appointed to fill the vacancies. 1863, April 5. Joseph Slater, Mayor; I. H. Kroh, Recorder; J. S. Bumback, James W. Mount, T. S. McKeen, Darius Ebers, and Reuben Tristre, Trustees, and A. W. Baker, Treasurer. 1864, April 4. Joseph Slater, Mayor; Reuben Tristre, Recorder; Charles P. Rechey, John H. McCullough, James L. Reed, Charles P. Edson, and James Clark, Trustees; A. W. Baker, Treasurer. 1865, April 3. Joseph Slater, Mayor; Reuben Tristre, Recorder; Lewis Evers, G. W. Moltz, Jacob Fox, Samuel Saltzgaber, and I. D. Clark were elected Trustees; A. Conant, Treasurer. - 21 - April 17. S. Swineford, appointed in room of L. Evers, deceased. 1866, April 3. James M. Barr, Mayor; Reuben Tristre, Recorder; A; W. Baker, George W. Moltz, Henry Robinson, I. N. Alexander, and D. Newcomer, Trustees, and A. Conant, Treasurer. 1867, April 4. I. N. Alexander, Mayor ; Reuben Tristre, Recorder ; George W. Moltz, John Darnell, Samuel Saltzgaber, Emery Mullen and Joseph Cassel, Trustees, and Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1868, April 6. I. N. Alexander, Mayor; Reuben Tristre, Recorder; Joseph Cassel, George W. Moltz, Ira Sutton, Joseph Brodnix, and John H. McCulloch, Trustees; Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1869, April 12. Gaylor M. Saltzgaber, Mayor; Reuben Tristre, Recorder; George W. Moltz, Joseph Cassel, Burget Miner, Joseph Brodnix, John H. McCulloch, Trustees, and Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1870, April 4. H. C. Glenn, Mayor;. Henry Robinson, Recorder; O. P. Clark, Cyrus Little, S. Swineford, for two years, and W. H. Denis-ton, John Darnell, and David 1-Iarnley for one year, Trustees; Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1871, April 11. H. C. Glenn, Mayor; Henry Robinson, Recorder ; O. P. Clark, Cyrus Little, S. Swineford for one year, and William Peer, Joel W. Hetrick, and James Clark for two years, Trustees, and Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1872, April 5. George E. Wells, Mayor; Henry Robinson, Recorder ; William Pier, Joel W. Hetrick, and JAmes Clark for one year, and James K. Scott, James Webster, and Cornelius Neff, Trustees for two years; Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1873, April 4. George E. Wells, Mayor; Henry Robinson, Recorder; James K. Scott, James Webster, and Cornelius Neff for one year, and J. W. Hetrick, William Pier, and R. M. Skelley, Trustees, for two years, and Jacob Fox for two years. 1874, March 6. An ordinance was passed by the Town Council dividing the town into four wards, and fixing places to hold the elections in the different wards. 1874, April 6. Thaddeus S. Gillilan 1, Mayor; Henry Robinson, Clerk; Alonzo Conant, Councilman for ward No. 1; John W. Tucker for ward No. 2; Andrew J. Gleason for ward No. 3; Peter H. Miller and David Harnley for ward No. 4. Mr. Miller for two years, and Mr. Haul-ley for one year; Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1875, April 9. T. S. Gilliland, Mayor; Henry Robinson, Clerk ; Amos Smith for ward No. 1; W. H. Denniston for ward No. 2; J. W. Hetrick for ward No. 3; John G. Upright, for ward No. 4; Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1876, April 7. T. S. Gilliland, Mayor ; Henry Robinson, Clerk; Samuel Slade, ward No. 1; Cyrus Little, ward No. 2; Thomas L. Lehew, ward No. 3; George H. Haffner, ward No. 4 ; Councilmen. 1877, April 2. T. S. Gilliland, Mayor; Henry Robinson, Clerk; Amos Smith, ward No. 1 ; James B. Broadnix, ward No. 2; Francis M. Shaffer, ward No. 4 ; Joel W. Hetrick. ward No. 3 ; Jacob Fox, Treasurer. 1878, April 5. Andrew J. Porter, Mayor; Henry Robinson; Clerk ; James L. Reid, full term, and Frank Pier to fill a vacancy for 1st ward ; James K. Scott, for full term, and H. L. Allen, to fill a vacancy for 2d ward; Thomas L. Lehew, for 3d ward, and Henry Butler for 4th ward. 1879, April 4. Andrew J. Porter, Mayor; Henry Robinson, Clerk; J. W. Hetrick for 3d ward, and F. M. Shaffer for 4th ward; Jacob Fox for two years. 1880, April 5. Andrew J. Porter, Mayor; Jacob Fox, Treasurer ; Henry Robinson, Clerk; S. B. Austin for 1st ward; David Newcomer for two years, and W. R. Cook for one year, for 2d ward; Washington Ziegler, 3d ward; A. L. Tuebner for 4th ward. 1880, December 15. George E. Wells, elected Mayor to fill the unexpired term of Andrew J. Porter. 1881, April 4. George E. Wells, Mayor ; Joseph S. McCoy, 1st ward ; W. R. Cook, 2d ward; W. L. Scott, 3d ward, and Albert Wolf, 4th ward. 1882, April. Ira P. Shisler. 1st ward, S. B. Austin. 2d ward, D. Newcomer. 3d ward, E. L. Strack. 4th ward, Dr. Wilkenson. Marshal, Thomas Redrup. 168 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. NEWSPAPERS. It appears from old documents and files that the "press" was introduced at a very early date. We present the titles of the different papers, and the names of editors, from the first publication to the present time. The pioneer journal was " The Van Wert Patriot," founded in 1844 by George E. Buron. It was printed by one of the old Ramage presses, which have long since passed into disuse. "The Bugle" was the next paper, published by William Moneysmith. The title was subsequently changed to " The Native American," when it changed hands, Messrs. Conn and 0. W. Rose becoming the editors and proprietors, by whom the name was again changed to " The American." Under this title it was edited by I. N. Alexander, Lewis Evers, and _____ Felburg. After a few years it changed its title to "The Ohio Weekly Bulletin," and was edited by I. C. Clark, W. L. Scott, R. B. Ensall, A. C. Tucker, and H. C. Glenn. On the 5th of May, 1859, the name was changed to the more appropriate title of " The Van Wert Bulletin," and has since been edited by the following persons in the order named : H. C. Glenn and J. H. Foster, J.. H. Foster, Foster and Hammer, Glenn and Foster, and finally by J. H. Foster, who is at present editor and proprietor. The paper thus traces its history back to "The Bugle" of 1844. The "Bulletin" office is now supplied with a Potter cylinder press, a medium and small nonpareil press, and a Gem paper-cutter. As a job and news office, it is supplied with every variety of type for all styles of work. It represents a capital of $10,000, and is ably conducted. The paper is Republican in politics ; and while laboring for the integrity of the party with marked ability, does not forget the immediate local interest nor the general news of the day. Foreman, N. B. Evers; Compositors, P. and C. Auchutz, Charles Cline, and Win. A. Bigford. Office on South Washington Street. "The Watchman" was established by W. Moneysmith in 1854. He was succeeded by H. S. Knapp in 1856, and he by Duane Roberts in 1857, in which. year the establishment was purchased by a joint stock company, by whom the title was changed to " The Weekly Constitution." Its editors in succession were H. S. Knapp, J. Clutter, E. B. Hearn, and Van Valkenberg. On Aug. 29, 1865, it was purchased by Moneysmith & Tucker, and the name changed to " The Van Wert Times," and until the year 1870 was edited by the following-named persons consecutively : A. C. Tucker, Wright & Phillips, A. C. Tucker, D. McDowell, Hall & J. J. Moore. In 1870 it was purchased by W. H. Clymer, who is editor and proprietor at this writing. The " Times" is a Democratic organ, and is well conducted under the present management. The office is well supplied with job and news outfit, having a Campbell cylinder job and paper press, a Peerless job press, Gem paper-cutter, and a well-selected supply of type. It represents a capital of $9000 Office on South Washington Street. "The Press" was a paper established in 1874 by Grimes McConahay & Son. It subsequently passed into the hands of J. A. McConahay, and was finally discontinued. From the "Press" office another paper styled "The Morning Star" was issued as a journal of Spiritualism, but it failed to materialize, and so was discontinued. At this writing, "The Van Wert Bulletin" and "Van Wert Times" are the only papers published at the county seat. These are both well conducted and liberally patronized. They are both of pronounced political opinions-the former Republican and the latter Democratic-but both at the same time keep the welfare of the community in view, and supply the general news of interest, manifesting in their whole management a spirit of praiseworthy enterprise. They are entitled to a full share of credit for the development of the county and the growth of the town, and the efficiency of the public institutions. In the march of development the press is at the front. Where are the other enterprises and institutions ? We will see. SOCIETIES. Van Wert Lodge, No. 218, of Free and Accepted Masons was constituted in Van Wert, the charter having been granted by the R. W. Grand Lodge of Ohio, on Oct. 22, 1852. The charter members were G. McConahay, Robert Gilliland, Robert Conn, O. W. Rose, George S. Crafts, James Emerson, George Marsh, and Thomas Emerson. The charter was signed by the following Grand Officers: Win. B. Hubbard, R. W. Grand Master; A. P. Bigelow, R. W. D. G. M. ; Wm. B. Dodds, S. G. W. ; L. V. Bierce, J. G. W. ; B. F. Smith, G. Sec. ; Leonidas Jewett, Grand Treas. The charter officers of Lodge 218 were G. MeConahey, W. M. ; Robt. Gilliland, S. W.; Robt.Conn, J4. W. ; G. S. Craft, Sec. ; G. Marsh, Treas. The lodge acted under dispensation from Feb. 27, 1852, to Oct. 22, 1852, at which time the charter was granted. The first person initiated into the lodge was Israel D C. Clark. The following brethren are Past Masters of the lodge since its organization : Oct. 1852, Jas. McConahay; Dec. 4,1852, Robert Gilliland ; Dec. 3, 1853, Robert Conn ; re-elected Dec. 2, 1854 ; Dec. 1, 1855, Israel D. Clark ; Nov. 8, 1856, Caleb Roberts; Dec. 26, 1857, Israel D. Clark ; re-elected Dec. 11, 1858 ; Dec. 3, 1859, Robert Conn ; Dec. 27, 1860, James Webster; Dee. 13, 1861, James Webster ; Dec. 5, 1862, Benj. F. Shoop; Dec. 5, 1863, Benj. F. Shoop; Dec. 4, 1864, N. W. Davenport ; Dec. 2, 1865, Charles W. Long; reelected Dec. 1, 1866 ; Dec. 7, 1867, Levi Meredith ; re-elected Dec. 12, 1868; Nov. 27, 1869, James L. Price; re-elected Dec. 3, 1870 ; Dec. 9, 1871, re-elected ; Dec. 23, 1872, re-elected ; Nov. 29, 1873, re-elected ; Nov. 21, 1874, Leonard C. Conn ; Dec. 4, 1875, Henry Butter ; Dee. 2, 1876, A. P. McConahay ; re-elected Dec. 1, 1877 ; Dec. 7, 1878, Leonard C. Conn ; Dec. 7, 1879, James L. Price. Number of members, 108. Meetings are held 1st and 3d Saturdays of each month. The following are the present officers for 1880 : James L. Price, W. M.; Levi Meredith, S. W.; Ira P. Shysler, J. W.; Orlando D. Swartout, S.; Henry Butter, T. ; A. I'. McConahay, S. D. ; Perry Zimmerman, J. D.; Wm. Brown, Tyler. Royal Arch Chapter, No. 71, is located in Van Wert, and was chartered Oct. 20, 1856. The following companions are the charter members : Caleb Roberts, Robert Conn, Reuben Tristre, Davis Johnson, W. S. Ainsworth, G. McConahay, J. Blether, W. C. Gallagher, A. P. Conn, James Webster, and George T. Craft. The Grand officers who issued the charter under the seal of the Grand Chapter of Ohio, were Horace M. Stokes, G. H. P. ; Kent Janis, D. G. H. P.; Platt Benedict, G. K. ; Ezra Griswold, G. S. ; John P. Caldwell, G. S ; and Isaac C. Copefield, G. Tres. The first officers of the chapter were W. C. Gallagher, H. P.; G. McConahay, K.; Davis Johnson, S. The following companions are Past High Priests, having assumedtheh office of High Priest at the date affixed to their respective names:- Dec. 5, 1856, W. C. Gallagher; Dec. 4, 1857, Robert Conn ; Dec. 9, 1858, Reuben Tristre; Dec. 6, 1859, Caleb Roberts ; Dec. 4, 1800, Caleb Roberts ; Dec. 4, 1861, T. S. McKim ; Dec 2, 1862, Reuben Tristre; Dec. 1, 1863, Reuben Tristre ; Dec. 7, 1864, Reuben Tristre; Dee. 5, 1865, Israel D. Clark ; Dee. 4, 1866, Israel D. Clark ; Dec. 3, 1867, Israel D. Clark ; Dec. 1, 1868, Lorenzo C. Conn ; Dec. 7, 1869, Lorenzo C. Conn; Dec. 6, 1870, Chas. W. Lown ; Dec. 5, 1871, Charles W. Lown ; Dec. 4, 1872, Israel D. Clark ; Dec. 2, 1873, Israel D. Clark; Dec. 1, 1874, Levi Meredith ; Dec. 7,1874, Levi Meredith ; Dee. 7, 1875, Levi Meredith ; Dec. 6, 1876, Levi Meredith ; Dec. 4, 1877, Henry Butter; Dec. 3, 1878, Grimes McConahay ; Dec. 2, 1879, John Myers. Number of members in 1880, 45. Officers of the present year, 1880; John Myers, IL P.; John Zug, K.; Ira P. Shissler, S.: L. Meredith, C. H. ; I. D. Clark, P. S. Henry Butter, Rae. ; L. Patterson, M. I. V. ; D. P. Donathan, M. 2 V. ; Samuel Neill, M. 3 V.; O. D. Swartout, Sec.; C. W. Lown, Treas.; W. L. Scott, G. Meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of each month. These two Masonic bodies meet in the Masonic Hall, on the corner of Main and Washington streets, in Van Wert. Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Van Wert Lodge, No. 251, was established in Van Wert, Ohio, by the R. W. Grand Lodge of Ohio, which granted a charter February 23, 1854, to the following brethren, viz : J. B. Coffin, L. B. McGowan, E. L. Jacobs, HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 169 F. T. Coffin, J. Slater, G. McConahay, D. S. Miller, T. Profit, W. C. Gallagher, D. Majors, L. B. Fletcher, J. Shaw, R. Conn, and J. C. Parkinson. The names of the Grand Officers attached to the charter are R. W. w. G. Neilson, G. M.; R. W. W. F. Curtis, G. W.; R. W. W. F. Slater, Gr. Treas.; R. W. J. S. McGinnis, D. G. M.; R. W. A. E. Glenn, G. See. The lodge was constituted May 18, 1854, by Bro. John A. Lee, and the following brethren installed into office: J. B. Coffin, N. G.; L. B. Me- Gowan, V. G.; G. L. Jacob, See.; John Shaw, Treas. It has a membership of 132, who are devotedly attached to their principles. The lodge held their first meetings after organization in the third story of the Van Wert Hotel, but at the present time in McCurdy's block, corner of Main and Washington streets. Meetings are held regularly on Wednesday evening of each week. The present officers (October, 1880) are: W. G. Edward, N. G.; H. Billman, V. G.; A. J. Porter, Sec.; H. C. Glenn, Treas.; F. S. Blake, Permanent Secretary. The Past Grands of Lodge 251 are: I. N. Alexander, Joseph Castle, D. Newcomer, J. A. Gleason, A. J. Gleason, J. W. Penn, F. J. Bonewitz, G. W. Meltz, Dr. Win. Smith, L. C. Conn, A. Conant, M. L. Punwort, J. S. Hardsock, H. C. Glenn, T. Murphy, P. H. Miller, C. A. Mel-shinier, Jacob Fox, J. D. Foutz, J. S. Brumbeck, D. 1'. Young, J. B. Brodnix, H. Updegrove, Silas Smith, J. W. Baker, John Strandier, R. N. Skelly, L. B. McGowan, G. W. Day, H. Campbell, H. N. Croninger, C. A. Hutchinson, John Titus, L. Evers, S. S. Shoemaker, C. Link, C. Neff, C. W. Cowan, H. Robinson, A. G. Howell, J. H. Mount, E. Mullen, W. H. Dennison, John Cling, S. B. Hertz, W. Highwood, J. Bookwalter, T. W. Gaston, D. Harnley, E. L. Wilkinson, W. R. Cook, S. R. Moue-smith, and J. L. Stoddard. Marion Encampment, No. 61, I. O. O. F. When first instituted met at Delphos ; the charter granted March 30, 1854) by the Grand Encampment of Ohio; the following being the Grand Officers of the State: M. W. Payson Coats, G. S. W.; M. W. A. J. Young, G. S. W.; M. W. Samuel Ross, Gr. Treas.; M. W. Addison Pronsin, G. H. P.; M. W. A. R. Foote, Gr. Sec.; M. W. Nathan Stewart, G. J. W. The charter members were L. B. Wilson, C. H. McCluney, M. P. Clark, Wm. Cust, J. R. Murphy, H. Fisher, and C. H. Hoover. It was constituted by G. W. Cowan, who installed the following officers: H. FIsher, C. P.; L. B. Woolson, H. P.; C. H. McCune, S. W.; J. R. Murphy, Sec.; Wm. Crist, J. W.; C. H. Hoover, Treas. Past Patriarchs of No 61: I. N. Alexander, A. W. Baker, F. J. Bonanntz, I. S. Brunbeet, It Campbell, J. Castle, L. C. Conn, W. G. Edwards, Jacob Fox, A. J. Gleason, J. A. Gleason, H. C. Glenn, Wm. Hopwood, C. Melshimer, P. H. Miller, G. W. Moltz, J. W. Mount, T. Murphy, D. Newcomer, M. L. Purmont, Wm. Smith, U. S. Wise, H. Billman, Ab. Dennison, H. H. Updegrove, and W. R. Cook. Liberty Grange, No. 322, Of the Patrons of Husbandry, was organized at Van Wert; December 29, 1873. L. B. Shaffer was elected Master, and C. H. Koogle, Secretary. Deputy District Grand Master Robbins, of Mercer County, installed the officers. The order holds regular meetings every Friday evening. The number of members at its organization was thirty ; but at the present time, March, 1881, it numbers one hundred and thirty-four. It has a good financial basis, handling about eight thousand dollars' worth of goods per year. The following is a list of officers since its organization: Masters—L. B. Shaffer, H. C. Williams, E P. Weagley, and W. H. Witten. Secretaries—C. H. Koogle, John Koogle, E. Elkhart, and Alfred McElwan.. Improved Order of Red Men, Abewalci Tribe, No. 77. The dispensation to organize this benevolent association is dated the 23a of the Flower Moon, G. S. D., 382, and signed by W. A. Brands, Grand Sachem of the Grand Council of Ohio, and attested by C. S. Bells, Chief of Records, which body was subsequently organized by the Grand Council of the United States, April 7, 1852. Its motto is Friendship, Freedom, and Charity. The constitution provides that if a member be disabled by sickness or injury to his person the weekly sum of $3 shall be paid out of the funds of the Order. To this end there is a relief committee, whose duty it is to attend to all such cases. The Order also provides by assessment for a widow and orphans of deceased members. The Abewaki Tribe, No. 77, of Van Wert, was organized by dispensation, and meets every Thursday evening in their hall, in the third story of the corner of Main and Washington Streets. The hall is finished in Indian style, with bows and arrows, tomahawks, knives, war clubs and canoes, in fine every thing characteristic of the Indian character. Dr. John W. Underhill is one of the representatives of the Grand Council or Ohio to the Grand Council of the United States. W. H. Hester is the representative of No. 77 to the Grand Council of Ohio. Van Wert Division, No. 290, of the Sons of Temperance. A petition for a Dispensation was presented to A. W. Collins, S. D. G. W. P., on April 1, 1872, for the institution of Van \Vert Division, No. 290, composed of one hundred and six persons, who signed the application, but only sixty-eight were present at the organization. At its organization the following members were elected to their respective offices, viz.: 1. Mary Elcock, P. W. P.; 2. Sarah R. P. Moon, W. P.; 3. Sarah E. Roebuck, W. A. ; 4. George W. Mowry, R. S. ; 5. Georgia Glenn, A. R. S.; 6. Silas Smith, F. S.; 7. G. A. K. Young, Treasurer ; 8. Rev. Thomas Elcock, W. Chaplain; 9 E. C. Wilson, W. Conductor; 10. Rachel Little, W. C. Conductor; 11. Ella Ketchison, W. G. S.; 12. C. R. Alberry, W. 0. S.; 13. 0. L. Neff, D. G. W. P. Bro. A. M. Collins, State D. G. W. P., installed the officers in ample and regular form, and pronounced the Division in good working order under dispensation. On April 6, the charter was granted with full powers to proceed. April 8. The following Board of Trustees were elected: Bro. W. Underhill, for one year ; Bro. Silas Smith, two years, and C. E. Clark, three years. Miss Rachel Little was appointed organist, and C. S. Crossman, Chorister. The Trustees were instructed to negotiate a lease for Mr. Swineford's hall, and at the next subsequent meeting reported they had rented it for one year at $75, with the privilege of three, five, or ten years. April 15. O. D. Neff, Mary Elcock, and Georgie Gleason were appointed the first Literary Committee. The object of this committee was to have performances of a literary character every alternate meeting. An organ for the use of the Division was purchased. June 24, 1872, a regular election held, and up to this time the membership of the Division was 112. The Division had festivals, literary exercises, dramatic performances. The following members have filled the office of W. P. since the organization of Division No. 290: R. P. Moon, J. W. Underhill, E. W. Manfield, J. T. Cumming, Z. Houpt, Henry A. Pease, Rev. Thomas Elcock, J. W. Shultz, M. E. Bowser, G. M. Saltzgaber, O. L. Neff, I. D. Clark, James A. McConahay, E. T. Woods, George W. Maltz, C. B. Church, Sarah E. Roebuck, E. C. Wilcox, A. L. Sweet, George E. Wells, D. P. Donaldson, John Darnell, J. R. Beary, George Glenn, and Lee Cashill. Number of persons initiated 445; number of members —. It is eminently due to state that the Rev. Thomas Elcock in all the labors of the Division, besides attending to his arduous ministerial duties in the Presbyterian Church, and, notwithstanding his advanced age, has filled. the office of Worthy Chaplain for twenty-five full terms. The election of the Sons of Temperance, for the ensuing quarter, was held Monday evening, March 28, 1881. Below is a list of officers chosen: W. P., J. H. Foster; W. A., Kate Evers; P. W. P., Rev. S. M. Bowser; R. S., Arthur B. Whitmer; A. R. S., Cora Graham ; F. S., Asa Moltz ; Chaplain, Oliver Eagy ; Con., S. W. Long; A. Con., Kittie Cassel ; I. S., Myrtle Graves; 0. S., Lee Cassel; L. A., 1st, Ella Howe; 2d, Mary 170 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Lowery ; 3d, Nettie Rhodes; Organist, Ellis Melsheimer ; Chorister, Dr. D. L. Corbin. VAN WERT'S FIRE DEPARTMENT. Preceding the year 1872 the only evidence for combating the ravages of " the devouring element," fire, consisted simply of a " bucket brigade," which involuntarily sprang out to relief at the dread alarm of any incipient conflagration. About the beginning of the year 1872 some of the enterprising citizens, under the lead of J. H. Foster, deeming it of vital importance to have more efficient agencies in subduing fires, proceeded to the organization of a systematic fire department. A constitution and by-laws were adopted and officers elected, and a hand-engine, " Van Wert, No. 1," with two trucks, reels, and hose were purchased by the town Council. This was considered a sufficient protection to the town until 1877, when the city purchased one of Ahren's famous steam engines, and a new era for protection dawned. Both engines are under the control of one company—" Van Wert Fire Company, No. 1." The department is conducted on the volunteer plan, although the engineer is allowed a compensation for constant attendance. • The last annual report of the company showed the apparatus to be in condition, and to consist of Steamer, one hand-engine, four hose-carriages and reels, and 2000 feet of hose, all under experienced officers and in 'first-class working order. The officers from the beginning of the organization to the present time are as follows:— Jan. 30, 1872. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; Geo. H. Mowry, 1st Assistant Foreman ; C. F. Bickford, 2d Assistant Foreman ; D. A. Clark, Secretary ; George W. Clark, Treasurer. Nov. 12, 1872. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; Jos. Faudrill, 1st Assistant Foreman ; C. F. Bickford, 2d Assistant Foreman ; D. A. Clark, Secretary; P. C. Conn, Treasurer. 1873. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; T. J. Saltzgaber, 1st Assistant Foreman ; C. F. Bickford, 2d Assistant Foreman ; D. A. Clark, Secretary ; P. C. Conn, Treasurer. 1874. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; Get. Todd, 1st Assistant Foreman ; C. F. Bickford, 2d Assistant Foreman ; John Rison, Secretary ; P. H. Miller, Treasurer. 1875. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; P. H. Miller, 1st Assistant Foreman ; C. F. Bickford, 2d Assistant Foreman ; John Rison, Secretary ; P. H. Miller, Treasurer. 1876. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; U. H. Hester, 1st Assistant Foreman ; E. C. Wilcox, 2d Assistant Foreman ; Wilson Hires, Treasurer. 1877. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; Al. Brown, 1st Assistant Foreman ; U. H. Hester, 2d Assistant Foreman ; John Rison, Secretary ; Wilson Hires, Treasurer. 1878. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; Al. Brown, 1st Assistant Foreman : U. H. Hester, 2d Assistant Foreman ; Scott Johnson, Secretary ; Wilson Hires, Treasurer. 1880. J. H. Foster, Foreman ; Al. Brown, 1st Assistant Foreman and Engineer ; U. H. Hester, 2d Assistant Foreman ; J. W. Sherrick, Secretary ; D. A. Clark, Treasurer. Directors: F. M. Shaffer, J. G. McCoy, Charles Webster, John Troup, and John Mathys. 1882. J. H. Foster, President ; Al. Brown, 1st Assistant Foreman ; John J. Shoemaker, Foreman Hose Thomas Noble, Assistant Foreman Hose. Directors : A. Jackson, Thomas Redrup, Daniel Mullen, A. C. Walters, and A. Grandstaff. Buckeye Hook-and-Ladder Company. About the time of the organization of the Fire Department in 1872, O. J. Coiner became the leading spirit in organizing an independent hook-and-ladder company. The company was organized and named the "Buckeye," and elected O. J. Comer Foreman, and A. W. Clark Secretary, with a complement of about fifty men. With their own money the company purchased a hook-and-ladder truck and the necessary apparatus. Several years afterwards the company sold their to the city at the original cost price. It now maintains its organization on the volunteer plan, with an active membership of forty-one men, offs. cered as follows : George Clippinger, Foreman.; John Shoop, Assistant Foreman ; Ed. Montgomery, Secretary ; George Clippinger, Treasurer. Directors: Frank Shoop, Harry Darnell, and George Moebus. Van Wert Fire Company, No. 1. This is to certify that on the 20th day of February, A. D. 1872, at a regular meeting of the members of the fire company hereinafter named, held at the engine house in Van Wert, County of Van Wert and State of Ohio, and which is the usual place of holding the meetings for said company, a majority of the members were present, and the following proceedings were had, as shown by the minutes of said meeting, to wit: VAN WERT, OHIO, February 20, 1872. This being the regular meeting of the members of the fire company, held at the engine house, in Van Wert, Ohio. There were present J. H. Foster, presiding officer, and a majority of members. It being in order to select a name for said company, it was unanimously agreed that the corporate name adopted by said company, and by which it shall be known, shall be " The Wert Fire Company, No. 1," and whereupon, it being in order, an election of directors for said company was proceeded with, when James E. Morrison, George F. Pier, George F. Todd, David L. —, and Joseph Rose were duly elected said directors and trustees, to serve for the period of one year, and until their successors are elected and qualified. It was further resolved that these proceedings be furnished the Recorder of Van Wert County, Ohio, for record, to make this body an aggregate corporation under the law of Ohio. Signed, D. A. CLARK, Secretary. The Van Wert Gas Company. The Van Wert Gas Company was organized February 14, 1881, by . H. Miller, C. R. Miller, A. B. McCurdy, H. C. Glenn, and 0. C. McCurdy with capital stock of $25,000, the building having been erected the previous year by J. H. and C. R.. Miller. The works consist of a fire-proof brick building, 60 by 70 feet, with all the modern improvements for making illuminating gas. By the use of the gas the city was illuminated for the first time the 10th of January, 1881. Directors: John Van Liew, 0. C. McCurdy, Perry Zimmerman, O. I. Saltzgaber, and H. C. Glenn. property The Board organized Jan. 1, 1882, by electing the following officers: President, H. C. Glenn ; Secretary, O. C. McCurdy; Treasurer, John Van Liew. MANUFACTURING AND INDUSTRIAL INTERESTS. Van Wert Stave Company. The charter for this company was procured by D. H. Pennypacker, R. Sheppard, George Sibbett, Samuel Neel, and Josiah Sibley. They purchased ten acres of land within the corporation, and on the line of the P., Ft. W. and C. H.. H., between West Main Street and Bear's addition. Flour and sugar barrel staves, finished heading, and flat and patent hoops form the line of manufacture. The establishment represents a capital of $70,000, and employs eighty workmen. Two engines are operated, one of sixty and the other of eighty horse power. Stave capacity, 20,000 per day; heading from 1.500 to 2000. A specialty is made of the manufacture of stock barrels for flour, salt, glass, and lime. Officers: President, W. G. Pennypacker; Vice-President, W. S. Craig; Secretary and Treasurer, I. H. Eldridge. Directors : George Holton, John H. Grove.
HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 173 People's Milling Association. This company was incorporated April 15, 1872. The charter members were L. Meredith, M. Mumaugh, Samuel Neel, C. P. Edson, Samuel Collins, D. W. Burt, Alexander Le Rue, J. S. Brumback, A. W. Baker, I. N. Alexander, and I. D. Clark. On April 18, the following Board of Directors was elected: Levi Meredith, Samuel Collins, Samuel Neel, A. W. Baker, D. W. Burt, Alexander Le Rue, and P. De Puy. The board then elected the following officers: D. NV. Burt, President ; A. W. Baker, Secretary, and Samuel Neel, Treasurer. Levi Meredith was appointed Superintendent. The charter provides for the annual election of officers on the 1st day of January, at which time dividends are to be declared. The capital stock was $20,000, divided into 400 shares of $50 each. A brick mill was erected, 40 by 60 feet, the basement seven feet deep ; first floor 12 feet high, and the second story 14 feet high. The cost of the building was $15,245.66. Cost of lot $800. E. W. Wilson, architect and builder. Capacity of mill, 30 bushels of wheat and 20 bushels of corn or chop per hour. Officers: President, A. J. Gleason ; Secretary, Ed. Burt; Treasurer, H. G. Richie. Directors: M. F. Richie, F. J. Gleason, S. Kohn, J. W. Clark. City Mills. These mills were built by W. A. Clark and .Charles Mahan in 1874. The building is 24 by 52 feet, engine-room. 20 by 30 feet, and the office 12 by 32 feet. The mill has three run of burrs, with a capacity of fifteen bushels per hour. The mill occupies lot No. 14 West Jackson Street. Their specialty is custom and merchants' work. The building was erected at a cost of $8000, and the lot purchased for $1000. J. W. Boss, of Fort Wayne, proprietor ; W. A. Clark and Chas. Malian, Managers. Union Mills Flouring Company. This company was chartered Feb. 27, 1871, the incorporators being P. J. Bonewitz, S. Swineford, John A. Conn, T. S. Gilliland, and Jacob For. The mill is situated on the corner of Crawford and Walnut streets. The building is frame, 65 feet square, and furnished with, a 10 horse-power engine, four run of burrs, with a capacity of 400 bushels per day. The building is three stories high, and the whole building and machinery represent an investment of $16,000. Present directors: D. R. Bonewitz, O. P. Bonewitz, S. Swineford, W. L. Scott, and O. D. Swartout. W. L. Scott has acted as superintendent from the first, and being a practical miller and reliable business man, is eminently qualified to discharge the duties of his position. President, L. G. Schumm ; Vice-President, B. C. Swineford ; Secretary, O. D. Swartout ; Treasurer, L. R. Swineford ; Superintendent, W. L. Scott. Banking Institutions—First National Bank. A moneyed institution, being chiefly a bank of deposit, exchange, and discount, existed in the early business history of Van Wert, and was under control of Dr. C. Emerson and E. R. Wells—but eventually passed under the sole ownership and control of Dr. Emerson. In 1864, the First National Bank of :Van Wert, succeeding this old and well-conducted private bank, was established with a capital of' $60,000, and now has a surplus of $14,000. The present directors of the bank are Dr. C. Emerson, A. Conant, S. Swineford, W. A. Buckingham, and Col. John M. C. Marble—J. M. C. Marble, President ; G. A. Sahlquist, Cashier, and John A. Conn, Assistant Cashier. That this bank rests upon sure foundations, the public have ample assurance in the fact of the large wealth of the owners, and their high character—they being among the most substantial .business men of Northwestern Ohio, and their credit thoroughly established in all the important financial centres of the country.. First National Bank of Van Wert. Report May 1, 1881. United States bonds, $67,000 ; real estate, etc., $13,000 ; expenses and taxes, $2774.92 ; bills, discounts, $92,922 ; over drafts, $670.04; due from other banks, $64,837.76; cash on hand, $23,713.22 ; with United States Treasury, Washington, $3000 ; cash items, $766.92; total, $268,684.97. Capital and surplus, $74,000; undivided profits, $6464.32; circulation, $60,000 ; deposits, $128,220.65; Total, $268,684.97. Charles Emerson, President; A. S. Burt, Cashier. The Van Wert National Bank. Dr. Charles Emerson and Edw. Wells established the first bank in this vicinity in 1856, as Emerson & Wells. Soon thereafter Dr. Emerson succeeded to the business, and conducted it very successfully until February, 1864, when, in connection with many of the leading citizens of the place, he established the First National Bank of Van Wert, Ohio. Col. J. M. C. Marble, long identified with the leading business interests of Delphos and the founder of the First National Bank and Savings Bank of that place, became interested in the First National Bank of Van Wert in 1871, and that bank remained under the control of Messrs. Emerson & Marble and their associates until 1879, when they sold their stock in the same, and the following year, associating with them, William H. Pennell, established the banking-house of Emerson, Marble & Co. This banking-house from its first opening was awarded by the public a very considerable and valuable business, and soon became the largest loaning institution of the county, and on March 21, 1882, merged its business into that of the bank that heads this article, "The ran Wert National," which opened business with a capital of $100,000, and numerous wealthy and successful shareholding interest. The board of shareholders, comprising Dr. A. N. Krout, J. S. Zook, A. A. Bronson, D. Shepard, Joseph May, Dr. B. F. Leslie, Jonas Stuckey, Levi Meredith, John Atchison; A. R. Merrick, J. B. Fronefield, Marvin Woodruff, Stewart Lippman, Ira P. Shissler, Philip Scaer, Jr., Dr. Wm. Smith, Dennis C. Zook, Miss Julia Putnam, Major E. C. Dawes, Prof. C. S. Grossman, John E. McGettigan, Mrs. M. F. Dawes, Dr. Charles Emerson, Col. J. M. C. Marble, Lester Patterson, I. H. Eldridge, A. B. McCurdy, Henry Butler, Dr. H. C. McGavren, Benjamin Olney, William H. Pennell, Union Mutual Life Insurance Company of Maine, and Guilford S. Marble. The shareholders designated from these numbers as directors and officers are Daniel Shepard, Lester Patterson, Dr. Chas. Emerson, I. H. Eldridge, J. S. Zook, Joseph May, Henry Butler, Dr.. H. C. McGavren, Benj. Olney. Wm. H. Pennell, Cashier ; J. M. C. Marble, President ; A. B. McCurdy. Van Wert Book and News Company. Incorporated Jan. 1, 1881 ; capital, $10,000. President, Mrs. S. E. Roebuck Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Leila Zimmerman. An extensive stock of books, periodicals, weekly and daily newspapers, stationery, pictures, and wall-paper is constantly carried. The whole stock is well selected, and the business conducted with systematic skill. The Court-house. The present court-house is a magnificent structure, which reflects great credit upon both the town and county. It is situated in a public part Of the town, and is finished with great skill and taste both outside and within. The offices are all commodious, well lighted, heated, and furnished. The court-room is large, well arranged, and elaborately finished. The original contract was awarded for $78,100 ; contract for finish, $10,125 ; extra work on foundation, $3538.55 ; extra work on foundation, $617.46 ; cornice in hall, $738.18; flooring, 1116.96; ceiling, $1151.42.; lining for stairs, $29.04; concrete, $2437.20 ; painting, $365.58; painting, $609.30; marble tile, $1447.42; steam apparatus, $7897.93; clock, $2000. The whole building is complete in all details, and is in many respects a model of architectural design and construction. Thorp's Artificial Stone. The manufacture of this stone was established here by Matthias Springer. At the factory may be found specimens of this stone, which is a chemical combination, said to be both frost and fire-proof. It is highly recommended for window-caps and sills, plain of ornamental, steps, ranges, chimney-tops, and pavements. The stone has already been tested in different manners, and has proved satisfactory. 174 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Tile Factory. Edward Germann is engaged in the manufacture of tile of all sizes, having facilities for the manufacture of 25,000 rods per annum, for which he finds a ready sale. Waverly Hall. This hall is on the second floor of a large brick. building on South Washington Street. It is 40 by 100 feet in dimensions, and is provided with a good stage and full scenery. The building was erected in 1876. by Swineford Brothers & Co. at a cost of $11,000. Opera House. This building was erected in 1874 by T. S. Gilliland. The first floor is occupied as business rooms, and the second to some extent by offices, which reduces the size of the hall. Still it is pleasantly located, and well adapted for amateur performances. Woodand Cemetery. The cemetery is located about eighty rods west of the corporation line. The grounds were purchased in 1874 by the trustees of the town and township for joint use as a burial-ground, and contain 100 acres. Great taste has been displayed in laying out the naturally beautiful grounds, which are beautified by shrubbery of different varieties artistically arranged. Patrons' Warehouse, Van Wert. This association was incorporated April 10, 1875. The charter was granted to P. M. Dix, Abraham Balyeat, A. A. Bronson, Smith Miller, A. Mentser, Samuel Collins, John Collins, Ira Cavett, J. K. Cooper, Joseph Custer, James Montgomery, L. B. Shaffer, H. C. Williams, 0. Koogle, M. L. Brewer, Edwin Smith, Hugh Gilliland, N. Hattery, A. R. Merrick, and Abijah Goodwin. 1875. First directors were P. M. Dix, Samuel Collins, N. Hattery, A. Mentser, O. Koogle, E. Smith, and Abijah Goodwin, who organized by electing P. M. Dix, President; Samuel Collins, Treasurer ; and O. Koogle, Secretary. 1876. All the directors and officers were re-elected. 1877. A. A. Bronson, A. Balyeat, H. C. Williams, Joseph Custer, James Sidle, 0. Koogle, and A. R. Merriek. A. Balyeat, President; A. A. Bronson, Treasurer ; A. It. Merrick, Secretary. 1878. P. A. Dix, Samuel Arnold, H. C. Williams, A. A. Bronson, S. C. Duff, Joseph lister, and A. R. Merrick. P. M. Dix, President ; A. A. Bronson, Treasurer; A. R. Merrick, Secretary. 1879. F. T. Gilliland, H. C. Williams, A. Mentzer, Joseph Crook, Smith Miller, S. Arnold, and A. Merrick. F. T. Gilliland, President ; H. C. Williams, Treasurer ; A. R. Merrick, Secretary. 1880. The board reduced to five directors : P. M. Dix, Jos. Crooks, Rufus Dufrey, H. F. Jones, and A. R. Merrick. P. M. Dix, President ; A. R. Merrick, Treasurer and Secretary. The elevator is located on lots 1, 2, and 3, corner of Cherry and Jackson streets. The main building is 34 by 60 feet, with an L of 20 by 40 feet and an engine-room 18 by 20 feet, and is expected to carry 60,000 bushels of grain, and can elevate from 900 to 1000 bushels per hour. Grain is removed to any part of the building with elevators and conveyers, and without handling it. The building and improvements cost $12,000. It is managed and worked by the superintendent, A. R. Merrick, who is also treasurer, secretary, and engineer. DUNATHAN & HUMPHREYS, wholesale and retail dealers in groceries, flour, queensware, glassware, etc., at Nos. 51 and 53 Main Street. This firm commenced business at No. 5, in the McCurdy block, Main Street, Feb. 1874. In the spring of 1878 they removed to their present location. Their storeroom is 40 by 70 feet ; their adjoining room is 30 by 40 feet ; and about one-fourth the up-stairs, which is used as a wareroom. They are also agents for all kinds of agricultural implements. THE TIGHT BARREL STAVE AND HEADING FACTORY. These works are located near the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and eidetic,. Railroad, between Cherry and Walnut streets. They were established in Aug. 1865, by Messrs. Butler & Meredith, and operated on a small scale, the machinery being run by horse-power for a few months. In the spring of 1866 Mr. Meredith sold his interest in the factory t, J. R. Brumback. The firm then purchased an engine and commenced operating their machinery by steam, and erected suitable buildings, in which they have been conducting the business of manufacturing stave; and heading for tight barrels. In 1870 they received as a partner J. K. Scott, of Van Wert, and the business has been conducted by H. Butler, J. R. Brumback, and J. K. Scott, under the name of H. Butler & Co. However, H. Butler is the manager of the business, who by energy and perseverance has made it a success. Their capacity is now sufficient to manufacture 8000 stave; and 4000 headings per day. They are enlarging their works, and attaching machinery for cutting and making slack barrel staves. They will soon have the capacity to use thirty cords of staves and heading per day. PATTERSON & HALFHILL, wholesale and retail dealers in groceries, queensware, glassware, etc., at No. 7 East Main Street. Mr. Patterson, senior member of the firm, engaged in the retail trade in 1873 in company with Mr. Tueker, as successor to Mr. Webber, former partner of Mr. Tucker. The fine name then became Tucker & Patterson, who continued in the business on the corner of Main and Shannon streets until Nov. 1875. Mr. Tucker sold his interest to Mr. A. P. Halfhill, and the firm name was changed to Patterson & Halfhill. They remained at the old stand until Dec. 1875, when their business-room was destroyed by fire. The)! changed their location to No. 12 Main Street, and carried on their business until the spring of 1878, when they removed to their present location. They occupy a room 22 by 80 feet as their salesroom, and a wareroom 18 by 50 feet. They are extensive shippers of butter, eggs, etc. In 1880 they commenced wholesaling groceries in connection with their retail trade, and have been eminently successful. STRACK & PATTERSON, manufacturers and dealers in all kinds of hardwood lumber, near the C. V. W. and M. Railroad, on Shannon Street. In 1871 there was a flax-mill erected on the ground where the saw-mill now stands, by the Patterson Brothers & Co., and was operated under that name until 1872, when Mr. L. Patterson purchased his brother’s interest, which made him owner of one half of the mill. The name of the firm was then changed to "The Van Wert Flax Company," and managed by Mr. L. Patterson, who operated it successfully, until all the buildings, . except the boiler-house, were destroyed by fire in 1877, at which time all operations of the flax-mill ceased. Mr. Patterson then purchased his partners, interest in the engine and boiler-rooms and formed a partnership with Mr. E. W. Strack—the firm name being Strack & Patterson. They erected a saw-mill for the manufacture of all kinds' of hard-wood lumber, which has been successfully operated. They purchase logs by the million, which are shipped to them by the railroad or hauled on wagons. These are the only shippers of lumber from this point; their average shipments are about two hundred car loads per year. NOTES TOUCHING THE EARLY HISTORY OF THE COUNTY AND TOWN-- ITS PIONEER SETTLERS, AND BUSINESS CONDITION AND PROSPECTS, IN 1875. (From a Town Journal.) This county was formed, with many others, now comprehended within the limits of Northwestern Ohio, April 1, 1820; and, like Williams and Paulding, named from one of the captors of the unfortunate British officer, Major André—Isaac Van Wert. The county, at its date of formation, was populous only in Indians and wild game—the white settlers being few in number. It was attached to Mercer for judicial purposes; and it was not until 1836, that the county became relieved of its swaddling-clothes, and organized as a distinct and independent county. |
