HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 175 The first court was held at Willshire, October 3, 1836. The first session of the Commissioners convened at Willshire, April 29, 1836. At the time of its organization, Van Wert consisted of twelve townships, only four of which, namely: Pleasant, Ridge, Willshire, and Jennings, were organized. According to the statement of Davis Johnson—undoubted authority and who settled in Harrison Township, five miles north of Wiltshire, DI April, 1836, the first public sale of lots in the town of Van Wert was made on the 17th day of June, 1837. Mr. Johnson has held several of the most important offices in the county. James Gordon .Gilliland removed to the county in 1835. He served three terms as treasurer, and three terms as commissioner of Van Wert County. No public officer discharged duties more faithfully, and none had a firmer hold upon the public confidence. William Johns removed to Harrison Township in October, 1837; and in 1839 to Pleasant Township, where he remained until his death, which occurred Dec. 4, 1871. Mr. Johns was an old Indian trader, and his son, David Johns, is now one of the most successful business men in the town. Dr. P. John Hines, the first physician, and yet living, came to the town in 1838; but the Gillilands, the Hills, and John Mark, preceded the Doctor, and were here in 1835. Darius Evers, now even in the vigor of his manhood, came in 1839. Among those established in Van Wert in 1842, were Samuel Engleright, John W. Conn, I. D. Clark, J. M. Barr, Wm. Parent, Joseph Gleason, Samuel Clark, E. R. Wells, Thomas R. Mott, Wm. Thorn, Daniel Cook, David Fisher, Isaac Doherty, Robert Gilliland, Dr. P. John Hines, David Richey, Jacob Thorn, John Roach, George McManama, Thomas Thorn, Samuel Parent, James G. Cress, Win. Fronefield, R. C. Spears, and Reuben Frisbie. The late Perrin De Puy, a well-known and popular attorney, and Hon. Chas. P. Edson, became residents of Van Wert in 1846. Joseph Shilling, who was connected with the hotel business at Little Sandusky from 1865 until the removal of the Wyandots from their old reservation in 1844, and who had been, during many years, on friendly terms with the educated members of that tribe, came to Van Wert in 1855. The nearest water mills were at Fort Wayne and Piqua; though there Was a horse mill, at which corn and buckwheat were ground, situated on Jennings Prairie, and another in Union Township, Mercer County. Lesser mills, popularly known as the "arm-strong," or hand mill—the stones being " nigger heads," and worked by hand—would, by dint of hard labor, turn out a peck of corn meal in twelve hours; and these latter mills s found a place beside a hand-loom in nearly every cabin. The town of Van Wert was laid out on the 30th of March, 1835- Geo. Marsh, James Watson Riley, and Peter Augenbaugh being the original proprietors. The last addition, by Judge Wm. L. Helfenstein, was made on the 29th of August, 1840. There are thirteen churches-1 Presbyterian, 1 M. E., 1 English and 1 German Lutheran, 1 Baptist, 1 Disciple, 1 Catholic, 1 Evangelical Protestant, and 1 African M. E., 1 Society of Friends, 1 African Baptist, and 1 German Reformed.. New Structures. Within the last two years, the business houses and dwellings erected, and now in process, excepting those made by A. Jacobs, A. B. McCurdy, F. S. Bonewitz C. A. Melsheimer, J. S. Brumback, and a few others, have largely exceeded in value, improvements that were built before them, and which were made since the town was organized. During the preceding two years the following mentioned buildings, of brick walls, have been erected, or are now in process of construction:— The court-house, at a cost of at least $80,000, and which, when completed, will be the most attractive public edifice, considering its cost, that has been built in Northwestern Ohio, will be a credit to the. town and county. The firm of T. J. Tolan & Son, architects, whose names are becoming the most prominent in the country, in the line of their profession, made the plan, and have superintendence of the work. E. W. Wilson is contractor. A new Presbyterian church, now nearly completed, is the finest church building in the town. Its dimensions are 76 by 46 feet. The people of the town are indebted to the enterprise of T. S. Gilliland, Mayor, for the erection of the Opera Block—a building of three floors, and covering an area. of 422 by 100 feet, situated on Washington Street. The printing rooms of the Van Wert Bulletin and other offices are in this building. The opera room will have a capacity for comfortably seating, when fully. completed, over 700 people. A. mammoth block, 132 feet on Washington Street, and 88 feet on Main Street—the joint work of T. S. McKim, A. S. Burt, W. H. Pennell, and D. Newcomer, and another of magnificent proportions, on the diagonal corner, known as the "Iron Block," in which are included the -First National Bank, the Times, printing office and some of the most Prominent business offices of the place, were erected by J. S. Brumback, John A. Conn, Thomas Geppert. Other fine business blocks have been erected by Jacob Miller, Joe May, S. A. Norris, I. N. Alexander, J. W. Penn & Co., George Dasher, and A. Lynch. A new public school-building, at a cost exceeding $40,000, is pronounced by the State Superintendent of Common Schools, considering its cost, the best erected in Ohio within the last ten years. And the following elegant private residences, also of brick: Wm. H. Clymer, S. Swineford, Thomas Geppert, Col. I. N. Alexander, Dr. A. N. Krout, and George Dasher; and a much larger number of frame walls, some of which cost as large an amount of money as those mentioned and chief among these is the residence, lately erected, of the prominent clothier, General A. Jacobs, which is, in all respects, a model structure. All the benevolent orders are well represented. Manufacturing. Fully six hundred thousand dollars are invested in the following-named manufacturing industries: five steam flouring mills, 2 planing mills, 1 saw mill, .4 brick yards, 1 hub and spoke factory, G wron and carriage shops, 11 blacksmith shops, 1 woollen mill, 3 cabinet factories, 2 harness shops, 2 marble shops, 2 lumber yards, 1 broom-handle factory, 1 tile. factory, 7 shde and 3 tailor shops, 1 ashery, 1 brewery, flax 1 cheese factory; and 2 cooper shops. Nineteen steam engines are working within and directly outside the corporation. An efficient fire department is always in readiness to protect the property of the city against ravages by fire. General Business. One of the features in Van Wert business that indicates a rapid approach to metropolitan arrangements in trade, is discovered in the classification of goods. Some fifteen or eighteen years ago, the several stores were "general merchandise," which embraced nearly all lines of goods in demand by people of the town and country. Now this system has passed away; and those who are in search of dry goods, will seek dry-goods stores, and those desiring hardware or boots and shoes, will find those establishments—and thus all the several department of trade have now become sharply defined. Three newspaper establishments—all issuing journals creditable to the town and county. They are the Van Wert Times, by W. H. Clymer; the Van Wert Bulletin, by Jacob H. Foster, and the Van Wert Press, by James A. McConahy. The Bulletin is unquestionably the most metropolitan in all its appointments of any newspaper .establishment outside of Cincinnati, Toledo, Columbus or Cleveland, that is now in operation in Ohio. The enterprise of its proprietor has no limit. Six dry-goods stores: Bonewitz & Johns, McKim & Hall, J. S. Brumbach & Co., Levi Zimmerman, A. L. Teubner & Co., and Mr. Hackedorn. Three clothing stores: A. Jacobs, New York Clothing Store, and Alexander & Kassel. Five drug stores: A. P. Linn, C. A. Melshimer, P. J. Hines & Son, and W. H. Pennell. Three hardware stores: A. B. 'McCurdy & Son, Casto & Eyler, and S. B. Hertz. Six boot and shoe stores: Clark, Richey & Co., Philip Profit, William Martel, G. W. Mosure, Wilkinson & Son, and Toledo Cheap Boot and Shoe Store. Five millinery. stores: Mrs. Zannin Smith, Mrs. Schreffler, Mrs. W. T. Lamb, Miss McKim & Miss Rowley, and Mrs. Marshall. Two dressmakers: Mrs. Dunlap and Miss Reese. Twenty-seven grocery and provision stores: James E. Morrison, A. Lynch, D. H. Clippinger, Dunathan, Humphreys & Holbrook, Riechter & Faber, Joseph May, H. J. Wise & Son, Jacob Miller, C. W. Wallace, David Newcomer, James Conn, Edwards & Gaskill, Brehm & Slade, D. W. Purmort, S. Swineford & Sons, David & Allen, John Eckfeldt & Son, Thomas Geppert, Andrew Moebus, John P. Cline, McCoy & Co., D. H. Scholl, George Hammer, Gotleib Wise, George Hall, Tucker, Patterson & Co., and William Pier. One fruit store: John Springer. Five bakeries: Thomas Geppert, A. Lynch, John Eckfeldt, John P. Kline, and G. Wise. One hair store : Mrs. Kirk. One book store: Wenger & Pennypacker. Two jewelry stores : A. P. McConahay and William Snashall. Four hotels: DePuy House, American House, Van Wert House, and Davis House. Three saddle and harness shops: B. F. Shoop & Co., J. H. Strandler & Co., and N. Fugate & Co. Two photograph Galleries: J. F. Rank .& Co. and U. H. Hester. Two furniture stores: J. W. Penn & Co. and G. W. Gos. Two undertakers: C. W. Lown & Son and Jacob Conover. Five meat markets. Six sewing machine agencies. Clothing and Merchant Tailoring. Among the oldest business houses in Van Wert is that of Gen. A. Jacobs. Few have been more successful and enterprising, and none 176 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. have contributed more liberally and judiciously of their means to advance the interests of the town. These traits, added to the fact that he is the oldest merchant in the trade in Van Wert, and that his business transactions have ever been characterized by fair .dealings, have given him a hold upon the homes and trade of neighboring towns that cannot be shaken by competition however powerful. His stock embraces all lines of gentlemen's .furnishing goods ; and a large proportion of sales are of clothing manufactured for home customers, which are cut and made up by the most competent workmen that can he obtained. His present cutter is Mr. A. C. Elliott, who has selected Van. Wert as a home, and who has an. established character as one of the most accomplished cutters in the business. Jewelry and Music Store. The largest and best stocked establishment handling these goods in Van Wert, and having no successful rival in any place outside of Toledo, in Northwestern Ohio, is conducted by A. P. McConahay, whose business place is on Main Street, nearly opposite the new court-house. Among his goods are included diamonds, the best American and Swiss watches, for ladies and gentlemen ; jewelry of the latest styles and purest material ; solid silver and plated ware,, every kind of the best improved musical instruments, clocks, fine table cutlery, Italian violin strings, vulcanized rubber goods, and everything in the lines enumerated. Ills direct business relations with manufacturers enables him to successfully baffle all attempts at competition ; and through these arrangements his customers are secured the most advantageous rates in every character of goods embraced in the several departments belonging to the jewelry trade. Mr. McConahay commenced business here in 1864, and in that time has built up an establishment that is popular throughout Northwestern Ohio. Howe Sewing Machine. Gen. W. Day has the agency in Van Wert County for the sale of the Howe Sewing Machine. The Howe, as all well-informed people know, was the first machine in the market, and has maintained supremacy by repeated improvements, and is now, doubtless, the best in use. Thomas R. Burden, who has had many years experience in the sewing machine business, and who has ample facilities for repairing machines of any manufacture, has been employed by Mr. Day to assist him. The Howe rooms are in the basement of the iron front block, corner of Main and Washington streets, Robert Conn’s old corner. During the year over 108,000 of the Howe machines were sold in the United states alone, the European sales not included in this number. Drugs, etc. W. H. Pennell, whose building enterprise is noticed in another place, is the principal dealer in the above class of goods at No. 3 Union Block. The best retail establishment in Toledo is hardly better stocked with drugs, medicines, paints, oils, and other goods belonging to the trade, and none can exhibit better rooms. His jobbing sates are becoming large. A considerable portion of his attractive rooms is devoted to the sale of books and stationery. In the prescription department this house is especially popular among the prokssion, and really controls the entire trade. Board of Trade Rooms. On the broad plateau fronting the store of Conn & Noble, corner of Main and Jefferson streets, occur the principal sales of live stock and general farm productions ; and those sales, on account of the rapid increase within the last few years of agricultural wealth in the district of country that seeks Van Wert as a market, have grown into high importance, and have fixed Conn & Noble's grocery and provision store as a Board or Trade Booths, where balances are adjusted between buyer and seller. "torsos, cattle, hogs, sheep, and the various grains during market seasons first strike this busy corner, and here the competing purchasers erowd the stock droves and freighted grain, vegetable, and fruit wagons, and exchanges are made. Conn & Noble's establishment is, therefore in point of fact the Van Wert Board of Trade, or Exchange Building, one may please to term it. Charles Mount, T. S. McKim, and G. A. Hall. The oldest general merchandise management, and most continuously engaged in trade in the county and town of Van Wert without permitting their capital to become diverted to enterprises outside of legitimate merchandise, are those whose names are above written, although others who have extended their sphere have been equally successful. Mr. McKim established himself in the general merchandise business first, at Willshire, Aug. 25, 1846, in copartnership with his brother-in-law, Charles Mount (the latter having commenced trade in Wilshire as early as 1833). The partnership was dissolved at Willshire, and Mr. McKim removed to Van Wert in the fall of 1855. Mr. Mount was an honored citizen of the county and town, well known to all the old inhabitants, and now resides at Pleasant Hill, Mo., having retired from active business. In 1855, the partnership having been meantime dissolved, Mr. McKim removed to Van. Wert, where he opened a store, and continued in business ten years, arid then sold to Dr. Harb, of Willshire, the stock, reserving his real estate on the corner of Main and Washington streets, and engaged in the following year (May, 1866) in the auction and commission business in partnership with Levi Zimmerman, and continued this occupation until 1867, when the lease of Dr. Harb expired, and Mr. McKim resumed possession of the old corner, and supplied it with a new and fresh stock of goods, Dr. Harb returning to Willshire with the remnant of his stock. G. A. Hall, the now partner of Mr. McKim, is a merchant " to the manner born," having commenced on the lowest round of the successful business Man’s ladder. He is yet a young man, but possesses all the elements that have brought fortune to many who have started out in life with sound morals, good habits, and well-regulated brain. He left Germany, his native land, in 1853, and engaged with Mr. McKim as a sort of " boy of all work," bearing about the same business relation to Mr. McKim that the honored. President of the First National Bank of Van Wert bore to his first employer, Capt. Thomas Coulter, of Kalida. This is a brief intermingling of biography and the truth of history. The present condition is, that the firm of .McKim & Hall occupy a front rank among. the dry good business firms of the young cities of Ohio. All of which is fact. A. B. Mc Curdy. The finest establishment, exclusively hardware, of prominence, in Van Wert, was founded by A. B. McCurdy. Ills thorough knowledge of all the details of the business has enabled him to achieve a degree of success that has been awarded to only a few engaged in trade. lie erected the first prominent business block in the town, and none that have succeeded it have very largely improved upon his own. The firm is now known as A. B. McCurdy & Son; and in addition to hardware, they lire agents for the sale of the Studebaker wagon, and always have on hand a full line. of farm, garden, and household implements, as well as a considerable amount of the best field machinery. Boots and Shoes. Toledo made an error when it permitted Merry & Bloomfield to leave the city, and establish houses for the manufacture and sale of boots and shoes at Van Wert and Delphos. The same mistake occurred when the Ohio .Wheel Company was permitted to transfer its large business from Toledo to Delphos. But the change of base of Merry & Bloomfield from Toledo, and dividing their stock between Van Wert and Delphos, has resulted beneficially to the last-named places. While in Toledo, O., occupied the first place as manufacturers, and as also controlling, to to considerable extent, the trade in the choicest goods of Eastern manufacture. They bring to Van Wert and offer to their customers of goods at wholesale prices—an otter that no others in the business can afford to, make. The Van Wert establishment of Messrs. Merry and Bloomfield is known as the Toledo cheap boot and shoe store. First Building, Loan, and Savings Institution. The First Van Wert Building, Loan, and Savings Association was organized in January, 1871, and began business February 4, same year. The incorporators were I. N. Alexander, W H. Deniston, I. D. Clark, W. Moneysmith, T. S. Gilliland, A. S. Burt, G. M. Saltzgaber, O. D. Swartout, H. C. Glenn, and C. B. Sterner. The association has been doing business four years and a half, and has in that time collected and paid out to its members as advance loans nearly $70,00; for which the association holds mortgages for a sum exceeding $110,000. Home Building and Savings Institution. This organization has been in force about a year under very favorable patronage and auspices, embracing in the association, many of the most solid men in the place. The office is established in the banking house of Andrew S. Burt. Those who have invested in the enterprise have found it highly remunerative. People who have hitherto paid annual rents, are now placed in a condition that will enable them within a short time, by about the same monthly expenditure, to secure themselves comfortable homes. Van Wert County Loan Association. This association is an investment company, owned and controlled by Messrs. Emerson & Marble. Their business is largely an investment one--devoting themselves principally to the investment of their means, as they accumulate, in the mortgage and personal securities of the countY. They have also been quite successful in acting in a fiduciary capacity for others in effecting valuable negotiations. This association, like the First National Bank, with which it is connected in business relations, is man: aged on sound conservative methods—doing nothing but strictly legit-. mate banking, and venturing upon no outside scheme involving risks. HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 177 Carriages and Spring Wagons. W. H. Himmelreich, an old-established hOuse. has become popular in town and country, in the style and quality of' the carriages, spring and Heavy farm wagons, that he manufactures. No imported work can successfully compete with Mr. Himmelreich. Established in the midst of a country where the best raw material for the manufacture of carriages Ind wagons abounds, and employing none but skilled workmen, he naturally crowds goods manufactured eFsewhere from the Van Wert market. Repairs of farm machinery are so satisfactorily executed by him, that the farmers, during the harvest season, crowded his place. Bonewitz & Johns. This firm may be said to have been founded by F. J. Bonewitz, who purchased of Wm. .Anderson his .general merchandise stock, March 9, 1857. Afterwards he took into partnership his brother, D. R. Bonewitz, and during the same year the firm dissolved, leaving him alone. In March,, 1858, he again received a partner in the person of L. M. Funk, and this partnership continued until September, 1858, when the partnership, since and now known as Bonewifzz & Johns, was formed. In the produce business the strong firms of Bonewitz & Johns and of T. S. Gilliland have become united. In the merchandise department the firm transact a considerable jobbing business. Hotels. There are four established hotels. The Van Wert house is in charge of Capt. C. Neff, Col. F. J.. Miner, Clerk. This house is convenient to the depot, has 35 rooms, and can afford accommodations to 50 guests. The De Puy House is managed by the old and popular Van Wert landlord, Major E. Cole; and no one in the business is capable of conducting a better public house than Mr. and Mrs. Cole; but the trouble is, thatfhee town has become too large for the house, and "mine host" is oftentimes overcrowded. The public wants will soon afford a remedy, and Mr. Cole will have charge of a new one, which will be the leading hotel of the place. Cigars and Tobacco. Two establishments in Van Wert manufacture cigars and make sales (),f tobacco. The finest establishment of these, and holding principally the trade, was the one of J. L. Stauter, Washington Street, near the railway depot. He deals only in the finest brands of tobacco—fine cut and Ping—and in the manufacture of 'cigars makes use of the best im- Ported and domestic material, which secures for him an active home trade, in addition to outside demands, for his cigars. Mr. Stauter gives amployment to eight hands, and is one of the largest cigar manufacturers in Northwestern Ohio. Bakeries and Groceries Of the bakeries and groceries above mentioned, that of A. Lynch is to popular among all classes, as the business is confined strictly to baked bread, cakes, pastries, confectioneries, green and dried fruits, imported and domestic, such as oranges, lemons, canned fruits and meats of every description in their season. The enterprise of Mr. Lynch, exhibited omn the erection of his handsome brick block, is recognized by the people of Van Wert. Mr. Lynch transacts a considerable jobbing business in foreign and domestic fruits. Liquors and Wines. A wholesale house, stocked with the best foreign and domestic wines and liquors, has been recently opened, nearly opposite the new courthouse, by Fred. Young. Although only established a few months, the superior quality of his goods has secured a large trade. All the popular varieties of domestic wines are handled by Mr. Young. A. & F. Gleason, manufacturers and dealers in lumber, shingles, and lath. Their factory is in the west addition to the city, having been built in 1854-5, on the north end of Shannon Street, on portions of lots No. 12 and 13. This firm commenced business by running an old muley saw, competent to turn out an average of 2500 feet daily. At the present time the large circular saws in use by lumber manufacturers make every twenty-four hours from four to five thousand feet. The number of hands employed is nine. Capital invested $15,000. Joseph Gleason, Esq., their father, erected it and carried on business as early as 1837, but in 1866 he transferred it to his two sons. The mill has six large and small circular saws, turning-lathes, and all the necessary machinery, with an engine of sixty horse-power. J. A. Gleason & Brother established in the town of Van Wert, on part of lot 4, in the west addition, a spoke and bending factory, by which wagon, carriage, and sleigh work is furnished out' of the best and well-seasoned material to their - 22 - customers. They employ constantly from ten to twelve hands. Capital invested, $15,000. The frame building is two stories high, thirty by sixty feet, with an engine-room sixteen by twenty-Pmr feet. To this they added in 1878 a drying-kiln for securing lumber properly prepared for manufacturing purposes, which gives their work a decided preference. CHURCHES. METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. The first court-house (whose history we have given) was used by this denomination as their first place of worship. The enterprise, however, of erecting a church was inaugurated in the year 1846 tinder the pastoral labors ofilev. John Graham. A subscription to the church fund was liberal, and lot No. 20, on Jefferson Street, was purchased from Walter Buckingham, a merchant of Van Wert, the consideration being $50. Mr. Buckingham had purchased it of Abr. Marsh,.one of the proprietors of the town. The original trustees were Abel R. Strother, Abraham Zimmerman, Theophilus W. King, Samuel S. Brown,.and James M. Young, who officiated in this capacity for many years. The contract for the erection of a frame church was awarded to Mr. James H. Long,which included not only its erection, but the in rnishing of the materials. During the winter of 1846-47 the timber was hauled upon the ground; and in the summer of 1847 Mr. Long commenced the work, but peculiar circumstances compelled him to abandon it. Mr. A. Zimmerman undertook to finish the frame work, while Messrs. Darius and Joseph Evers put on the roof, inclosed the building, and laid the floor. The building was not plastered, but was seated with rough boards to accommodate the congregation, while neither pulpit nor tower graced. the church. In this condition it was used for several years as a house of worship by all denominations. The plastering was not finished until 1852, and measures were taken to have the rough board seats exchanged for better furniture. To the accomplishment of this object, Rev. Nathan H. Taylor devoted the energies of both body and mind, he having Keen sent to fill the pulpit. Through the days of the week, besides attending to pastoral duties, he assisted in cutting and hauling to the saw-mill the walnut logs from which the seats were sawed. In 1853, the timber being well seasoned and dried, measures were taken to raise the neces- sary funds, and in 1854 the church was finished. To perpetuate the principal actors and the respective parts taken, we add their names as an encouragement for others to dd likewise tinder similar circumstances. Rev. Mr. Taylor was the principal architect, and erected the pulpit and the altar ; the seats were made by I. W. Penn, Joseph Evers, and Morgan Mumaugh; the cupola was built by Darius Evers and Samuel Lattimore. The bell was placed in the tower on May 4, 1854, when its joyful notes were first heard. Ministers who have filled the pulpit as pastors since 1845: 1845-46, Rev. .John Graham 1846-47 Rev. John S. Kalb; 1847-48, Rev. James Albright , 1848-49, 11ev. .A.!llarmont; 1850-51, Rev. William Gniberson and 11ev. Jacob Burkholder; 1851-52, Rev. Reuben D. Oldficld and Rev. John K. Ford ; 1852-53, Rev. Nathan H. Taylor and Rev. Graham Lease; 1853-54, Rev. Nathan H. Taylor and Rev. J. Duvall; 1854-55, Rev. Joseph Fribley and Rev. N. B. C. Love. 'file Conference of 1855 made Van Wert a station. 1856-57, Rev. John Graham ; 1858, Rev. A. Hollington. The Conference of 1858 united Van Wert and Delphos with two ministers, viz.: 1858-59, Rev. William A. Baker and Rev. E. G. Longsworth ; 1859-60, Rev. William A. Baker and Rev. J. N. Priddy ; 1860- 61 ; Rev. P. Merett and Rev. J. N. Priddy : 1861-62, Rev: J. F. Mounts and Rev. L. A. Belt; 1862-63, Rev. J. F. Mounts and Rev. A. B. Webster; 1863-64, Rev. A. L. Nickerson and Rev. A. B. Webster. The Conference of 1864 changed Van Wert into a station, since which time the following ministers have supplied the pulpit : 1864-67, Rev. O. Kennedy, 1867-68, Rev. Geo. Mather ; 1868-69, Rev. H. E. Pilcher (his appointment supplied by Rev. J. F. Mounts); 1869-71, Rev. William Jones; 1871-72,. Rev. A. Hammont ; 1872-73, Rev. _____ Haldmans ; 1873-75, Rev. O. Kennedy ; 1876-77, Rev. William Jones ; 1877-78, Rev. J. R. Henderson ; 1878-79, Rev. J. R. Henderson ; 1879-80, Rev. A. T. Fish. In 1872 the congregation held a meeting to take measures in regard . to the erection of a more commodious and convenient church, and decided it was not advisable to build on the old site. The Hollinger property was suggested as the most advisable, being lots Nos. 59 and 60, on the corner of Jefferson and Water streets. But time passed on until Nov. 5,1815, when another meeting was held. Mr. Marble, with great generosity, stated that he had purchased the Hoaglin property for $3000, and if the congregation desired they could have it at cost, and he would donate the one-tenth toward the erection of a church, the cost of which should not exceed $30,000. The proposition was at once accepted by the congregation. Plans for the edifice were furnished by Mr. Thomas J. Tolan, of Fort Wayne, which being approved by the church, the work was at once commenced on the new edifice. The whole movement was under the management of 178 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Rev. O. Kennedy, then pastor of the congregation, who had the active co-operation of all the church. Laying the Cornerstone. This imposing ceremony was witnessed by immense concourse of people. Twelve clergymen were present, with the trustees of the church, the Masonic and Odd-Fellows' lodges, the Cornet band, and the citizens formed in Procession., and made an imposing parade through the streets. After this they proceeded to the church lot to lay the corner-stone of the church, when the following services were performed : 1, music by the choir ; 2, prayer by the Rev. Mr. Berry, Presiding Elder ; 3, inaugural address by Rev. Wm.. Jones; 4, subscription paper read by Rev. inaugural F. Mounts. The cornerstone .being laid, the following articles were hermetically sealed in. a box and deposited therein, viz., a Bible, Testament, Metho dist Episcopal Church Discipline, Church. and Sabbath-school records, with Church, State, and county papers also, constitution, by-laws, and list of members of the Masonic and Odd-Fellows' lodges; a Murphy temperance pledge, and badges, with the signers in town and country. Dedication of the Lecture room-The services were opened by singing, and the reading of appropriate Scripture lessons by Revs. Henderson and Geyer; prayer by Rev: L. A. Belt, of Toledo. Rev. 0. Kennedy preached an excellent and appropriate sermon, and concluded by soliciting from the congregation a thank-offering, which was liberally responded to. Col. J. M. C. Marble, President of the Board of Trustees, made the following financial statement concerning the building of the church Subscriptions secured to erect the church before May 16, 1875, $30,000; subscriptions received. since, $259.35; Total, $30,259.35 ; expended to date and for Material yet unused, $17,622.82; balance in treasury of unexpended Subscriptions, $12,626.58. The Ladies' Mite-Society furnished the windows. for the lecture-room and the carpet for the platform At a cost of $100. They have also on hand to expend for the completion of the church, $1255..29. The " Young. Workers" furnished three hundred chairs for the lecture,. room. The presentation ceremonies consisted in the trustees being called into the altar and presented the room through Mr. Marble for dedication to the worship of God. The dedicatory service according to the Ritual was then performed ; the doxology sung and benediction pronounced by Rev. L. S. Belt. An appropriate preamble and resolutions were read and adopted, thanking the efficient Board of Trustees, the faithful building Committee, the pastor, Rev. J. R. Henderson, and the Ladies' Mite Society. Elections.-The annual election of officers of the M. E. Sunday-school was held Tuesday evening, March. 29, 1881, and resulted as follows : Superintendent, J. F. Rank ; Assistant Superintendent, Arthur B. Whitmer; Secretary, Miss Jesse Fish; Assistant Secretary, Frank Masky ; Treasurer, Miss Minnie Woodruff; Organist, Miss Eliza. Little; Chorister, Rev. A. J. Fish; Librarian,: Capt.. D. P. Dunathan. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. The First Presbyterian Church of Van Wert was organized by the Rev. John H. Nevins, under the authority of the Presbytery of Miami„ June 10, 1843, a petition having been presented by the Presbyterians residing in Van Wert and its vicinity. At the time of the organization in the court-house it was called the First Presbyterian Church, and consisted of twelve members, viz. : Robt. McKee Thompson, Mrs. Lydia Thompson, Andrew Battery, Mrs. Rachel Battery, Joseph Battery, Mrs. Esther Hattery, Miss Annie. Battery, Nathaniel Battery, Andrew Battery, Jr., James Gordan Gilliland, Mrs. Margaret G illiland, and Mrs. Sarah Wells. After its organization according to the prescribed rules of the Form of Government, the members of the church proceeded to elect an elder, which resulted in the choice of Joseph Battery, who was regularly ordained and installed, and continued to discharge the duties of this office until his death. June 11, 1843. The first sacrament of the. Lord's Supper was administered this day, and on the Monday following the first two infants were baptized, viz., Hugh T., son of Robert Thompson, and Sarah Samantha, daughter of Mrs. Sarah Wells. Sept. 12, 1843. The church petitioned the Miami Presbytery for a minister to preach and administer the sacrament, inasmuch as the Rev. John H. Nevins, then pastor of the church at Decatur, and who had preaChed for Some months to the people of Van Wert previous as well as subsequent to its organization, finding himself unable to discharge the dirties, requested to be released. The church on the 18th of March, 1844, invited Rev. John Elliot, of Martinsburg, a licentiate of Richland Presbytery, to supply them one-half of his time, and promised. him as compensation $100 in produce. The call was accepted by him, and he continued his labors until March 21, 1845. In this year it was attached to Sidney Presbytery, the number of communicants being twenty-three. From this period to 1851 the church had no regular pastor, but was supplied by Rev. John B. Morton, Rev. John S. Galloway,. Rev. Richard M. Badden, Rev. Thomas Eleock, Rev. James H. Anderson, and Rev. Milo Templeton. In the spring of 1851 Rev. Richard Graham, a missionary of the Miami Presbytery, was called to the pulpit, and continued as pastor until the time of his death, Sept. 29, 1851. Rev. Thomas Elcock preached from Aug. 28, 1852 (once each month) until April 9, 1853, when he was elected the first regular pastor, and installed as such, the congregation promising to. pay him $250. His pastorate was the longest which the church has yet enjoyed, having con. tinned until 1861-a period of nine years-and was throughout a pros. perous one. In June, 1861, time Rev. Solomon Cook took charge of the spiritual interests of the .church as a. supply, and on the 26th of November, 1862, he. lave place to Rev. J. W. Allen, now of St. Louis, Mo., who preached from 1662 to 1864. In July, 1866, Rev. Frederick R. Wortring began his pastorate, which continued for two years. On June. 24, 1869, Rev. Wm. M. Claybaugh was elected, and served acceptably until Dec. 4,1871. On April 22, 1872, Rev. Brainard T. Dewitt was elected, and his ministration continued until March 21, 1874 ; his immediate successor was Rev. Eugene P. Dunlap, who was elected April, 1674, and served for one year. On May 9, 1675, the present pastor, Rev. John V. Stockton, began his labors, which have been so signally satisfactory. Ile was born near Utica, Ohio,. and after receiving a scientific education, graduated at the Wooster University in 1672. Immediately thereafter he entered on a three-years' course in theology,. and in 1675 received a diploma, from the Western Theological Seminary, of Allegheny, Penn. Previous to his graduation he had been elected pastor of the church of Van Wert, and on May 9, 1875,. he preached his first sermon as its minister. On 'the 23d of September following he was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Robinson, daughter of Rev. John Robinson, D.D., or Ashland, .Ohio. On Sept. 30, 1675, the Presbytery of Lima ordained Rev. J. V. Stockton to the full work of the ministry, and installed him as pastor of the church of Van Wert. Eldership.___ At the organization of the church, Mr. Joseph Battery was elected the first ruling elder, and continued to serve until August 22, 1851, when John Q. Adams and Isaac 'Golan were associated with him by ordination, September 7, 1851. These three administered the spiritual offices of the church until 1855. The death of Mr. Hattery and the removal of Messrs. Adams and Tolan caused vacancies which were filled by the election of Mr. Andrew Conn and Evans W. Jones, 00 January 19, 1856. On January 23, 1860, the church elected Messrs. Henry Robinson, James K. Scott, Thaddeus S. Gilliland,. and Oliver P. Clark, who were ordained February 19, 1860. The increase of the membership, and the, enlargement and interest of the church demanded that this body should be increased, and Wm. N. Longsworth, Dr. John Glenn, Moses H. McCoy, and John D. Ervin were elected and inducted into office November 25, 1879, and these eight officers. constitute the present eldership of the First Presbyterian Deacons.-On the 22d day of August. 1851, James Gordon Gilliland, George S. Crafts, and. Evans W. Jones were elected deacons and ordained September 7, 1851, which office Messrs. Gilliland and Craft, filled until their decease, and Mr. Jones until 185G, when he was elected the eldership. July 31, 1854, Messrs. Oliver P. Clark and Henry Robinson were elected deacons. Mr. Robinson was ordained as such October 3, 185' Mr. Clark having been previously ordained. These two deacons were promoted to the eldership in 1860. In 1866, Messrs. M. H. McCoy, J. L. Price, and L. M. Carey were elected and ordained. In 1869; Messrs. M. Richie, Dr. W. N. Longsworth, and Nathaniel Battery, and in 1874, Messrs. J. J. Humphreys and A. A. Griffin. Dr. Longsworth and Mr, McCoy have since been elected elders, and Messrs. Richie, Carey, and Griffin have removed from the bounds of the congregation. The present deacons are Messrs. J. L. Price, Nathaniel Battery, and J. J. Humphreys. Church Buildings.—The First Presbyterian congregation, as we have stated, was organized in the old court-house. Afterwards, when the Methodist Episcopal Church was built, the Presbyterians shared their hospitalities and worshipped in their church,. when they were able to secure a minister. In 1853 the Presbyterians, after due consideration, determined to procure for themselves a place of worship, and purchased a lot on south side of East Main Street, and west side Of Harrison Street, upon which they erected a neat frame building, which cost three thousand dollars, and was occupied by them until 1872, when the congregation wade arrangements for the erection of the present church. The present. beautiful brick church was commenced in the spring of 1873, by authority of the church. The building committee consisted of Dr. W. N. Longsworth, J. L. Price, M. H. McCoy, Nathaniel Hattery, John A. Conn, and T. S. Gilliland. The contract was given to E. AV. Wilson, architect. The erection of the building Was prosecuted with vigor, and in December, 1873, the lower room or basement was occupied, and the church on East Main Street was sold to the German Evangelical Congregation for two thousand dollars In 1877, the Building Committee again resumed their labors, and the HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 181 church was finished—the whole expense, including the lot, being fourteen thousand dollars. The audience room is artistically finished, and will thousand favorably with any church in Northwestern Ohio, being both tasteful and home-like, and will seat five hundred and fifty persons. on November 9, 1879, a board of trustees was constituted, consisting of six persons, to be divided into three classes, and to serve as follows: John A. Conn and I. H. Eldridge for three years; H. Kemper and Win. L. Scott for two years; James Montgomery and O. D. Swartout for one year. Officers and teachers in Sabbath School: Superintendent, I. H. Eldridge; Assistant Superintendent, Dr. .John Glenn; Secretary, Miss Anna V. Johns; Treasurer, Hathaway Kemper; Librarian, John D. Ervin; Assistant Librarian, Walter C. McFadden; Organist, Miss Ada Scott; Chorister, H. Kemper. Teachers: Miss Ella Alexander, Dr. W. N. Longsworth. Miss Nellie Johns, Mrs. L. Hopkins, Miss Emma Alexander, Mr. H. Kemper, Mr. J. J. Humphreys, Miss Emma Day, Miss Addie Scott, Mr. O. P. Clark, Miss Minnie Scott, Mrs. J. B. Parker, Miss Minna, J. Scott, Dr. John Glenn, Prof. D. R. Boyd, Miss Lucy Elcock, Miss Alice Grove, Mrs. P. H. Miller. School enrollment, 225. ST. MARY'S CATHOLIC CHURCH. In July, 1867, the Rev. Father Westervolt visited Van Wert, and organized the present congregation. His visits were continued for about one year. when, in 1868, lie was succeeded by Rev. Father Hoeffel, who continued in charge until 1875. Rev. Fattier Seetzer and Rev. Father Brent also paid a few visits. Rev. Fattier Leddy took charge in 1876, Rev. Father Cahill in 1678, and Rev. Father Berry in 1879. For over two years a room in Peter Roach's house served the purposes of a chapel. In 1868 the Rev. Father Hoeffel purchased two lots with a frame house thereupon, which was converted into a chapel. Soon this place of worship was found too small to accommodate the congregation. Then the present church, a neat brick building, 35 by 55 feet, was erected in 1870. The church and lots. cost $4000, a very large sum when the number and means of the congregation are considered. Rev. Father Hoeffel, however, assisted by the Catholics of Delphos and by the non-Catholics of Van Wert, overcame all difficulties, and honorably paid the debt which he had the courage to mama. The church as dedicated by the Rt. Rev. Bishop Swenger, of Fort Wayne. The sermon preached on the occasion was by the Rev. Alexander Shiley, then of Lima, which sermon was regarded as a specimen of great learning and eloquence. We shall relate one incident of many to show how the Catholics of Delphos were animated by the good spirit of their pastor, Rev. Father Hoeffel, in assisting to build the church at Van Wert. Stone, was wanted wanted for the foundation of the church, which amount was donated. Teams were needed to haul it, and volunteers were not slow in offering, and in one day fifty-two teams in procession left Delphos for Van Wert, and did the requisite [mauling. Ex une disce omnes. EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION OF NORTH AMERICA. The above branch of this church had its origin exclusively in this county among the German population. In the year 1852 Rev. A. Nicholai and Rev. J. Fox were sent on what was then St. Mary's circuit of the Ohio Conference. They established three new preaching places, viz., 1, in an old schoolhouse just north of where McKim's block ,now stands in Van Wert; 2, five miles soul h of Van Wert, in the Hertel settlement; 3, six miles north in the Mohr settlement. At the first-mentioned place efforts proved unavailing at the time; at the second place immediate success attended their labors, and it class was formed. In Mohr's settlement, Revs. Nicholai and Fox labored unsuccessfully, but their successors, Revs. Kronemiller and Strickler, succeeded in 1853 in organizing a class. In 1871, several members having moved into the town of Van Wert, Rev. P. Roth organized a class of eight persons. About 1865 the class north of Van Wert, in the Mohr settlement, built a church which cost $600. In 1872 the class in Van Wert built a church which cost $2400, and the class in the Hertel settlement, south of Van Wert, built a church at an expense of $1000. In 1874 the. Conference built a mission parsonage which cost $750. To the credit of the Christian liberality of the Evangelical sect, we may say that in the first twenty-eight years of its existence three churches Halve been erected at a cost of $4000, and a parsonage at $750. The following brethren have served in Van Wert County: Travelling Preachers, Revs. Nicholai and Fox, Goetts and Wesling. Kronemiller. and Strickler, Burgher and Geisel, Uphans and Evans, Krueger and Purr, Hertel, Koenig, Troyer, Pauli, Kerner, Bookman, Wales, Beyrer, Dickover, Ackerman, and B. F. Dill. The presiding elders were Revs. Dickover, Plotts, Sleffy, Fisher, Kiplinger, and Krueger. The north and south classes are rapidly becoming Anglicized, while the Van Wert class still retains the original language. BAPTIST CHURCH. A council of the following brethren convened in Van Wert, Van Wert County, Ohio, Nov. 2, 1853, to organize a Baptist church, viz., S. M. Brower, of Wapakoneta, Rev. D. D. Johnson, B. A. Welch, D. Welch, R. Hunter, and J. Casteel, from Bethel Church ; J. Lame and A. Smedly, from Harrison Church ; and Elder J. W. Bolster, from Pennsylvania, and took into consideration the propriety of constituting a Baptist church in this place, to be called the " First Baptist Church of Van Wert." Names of members : B. McCormick, Mrs. M. McCormick, Mrs. Lown, Mrs. Penn, Mrs. Emerson, Mrs. Wear, Mrs Grover, and Mrs. Oilier. The council was organized by calling Rev. D. D. Johnson to the chair, and Elder- A. M. Brower as clerk. The council agreed to recognize the above-named brethren and sisters as the First Baptist Church of Van Wert. The Articles of Faith were adopted as published in the Encyclopaedia of Religious Knowledge; after which the Rev. D. D. Johnson extended the hand of fellowship, and Elder Bolster read the charge. The church then proceded to elect a pastor, which resulted in the election of Rev. D. D. Johnson. D. D. JOHNSON, Moderator. A. M. BROWER, Clerk. Ministers of the First Baptist Church : 1853, Rev. D. D. Johnson ; 1854, Rev. Alex. Lerne ; 1856, Rev. Robert Edmonds; 1858, Rev. John .Bloomer; 1866, Rev. Robert Edmonds; 1867, Rev. A. Virgil ; 1869. Rev. Alex. Larne ; 1877, Rev. W. T. Lees ; 1879, Rev. V. IL Riley ; 1879, Rev. G. C. Graham; 1880, Rev. — Browser. Trustees of the church : Philip Troup, 1864; Charles Copeland, 1866; B. A. Welch, 1867 ; 'Philip Troup, 1870 C. Copeland, 1871 ; A. Lorie, 1874 ; C. Copeland. 1874. The present trustees are A. W. Duncan, L. J. Webber, and J. B. Riley. The First Baptist Church purchased the Wrest Ward School-house, corner of Linn and Caroline streets, and changed it into a church. The lot, buildings, and repairs cost $350. It is a frame building 40 by 60 feet. ZION BAPTIST CHURCH. This church, composed of our colored fellow-citizens, was organized in Van Wert December 26, 1870, with seven members. Names of Pastors: Rev. Jackson Young, of Paulding, was the first pastor in 1873 and 1874. Rev. Madison Viney, of Toledo, in 1875. Rev. Thomas S Evans, of Van Wert, in 1877 and 1878. When the church was organized Thomas Jordan, Primas Freeman, and Thomas Johnson were installed deacons, and John Guy, John Green. and Nathaniel Lee, trustees. The present deacons are Primas Freeman, Thomas Johnson, Hinton Evans, and John Jackson, and the trustees John Green, Richard Evans, and William Evans. The church was erected in 1875 at a cost of two thousand eight hundred dollars, to which is to be added one hundred dollars, the price of the lot. Rev. Thomas Evans was born in North Carolina and lived there until • he was 37 years of age. He came to the State of Ohio in 1859, to Union County, with a wife and five children. He remained there until 1875, when he and his family, then consisting of ten members, settled in Van Wert. lie united with the church and had charge of it in the years 1877 and '78. EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH. The first society was organized in Union township by the Rev. C. Caskey in 1857. The first members of the society were Michael Beck and wife, George Neely and wife, Joseph Rank and wife. They occupied the school-house on Section 16 as a place of meeting. The following spring there was quite an accession to the society, they numbering sonic forty members. They continued holding their meetings in the schoolhouse until the year 1878, when a church was erected. it is a neat frame building, which cost $1700. The pastors who have had charge of the congregation have been Rev. C. Caskey, Rev. F. Biddle, Rev. George Exline, Rev. Valentine Exline, Rev. George Haldeman, Rev. M. Dustman, and Rev. A. Leathers. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. HON: GAYLORD M. SALTZGABER was born at Shelby, Richland County, Ohio, March 14, 1846. At the age of eleven years he removed with his parents to Van Wert, Ohio, where he has since resided. At the age of fifteen years lie enlisted at Elmore, Ohio, in the Third Ohio Volunteer-Cavalry, and served with that company throughout the war, being honorably discharged in August, 186b. After leaving the army he attended school at Van Wert, and Poughkeepsie, until 1867, when he began the study of law 182 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. with R. B. Miceli, at VIM Wert, Ohio. In August, 1869, he was admitted to the bar, and formed a law partnership with Hon. I. N. Alexander. He was elected mayor of Van Wert, and subsequently served .as a mem- ber of the Board of Education. In 187.7 he was nominated by the Democratic party as the candidate for State Senator in the Thirty-second District, composed of the counties of Allen, Auglaize, Defiance, Mercer, Paulding, Van Wert, and 'Williams. He was, elected by the usual majority, and re-elected in 1879. Although one of the youngest members of the Senate, Mr. Saltzgaber took rank as an able lawyer in that body. Ile was Chairman of the Standing Committee On Fees and Salaries, and Municipal Corporations, and Chairman of a Special Committee of eight leading Members of the Senate to revise the Municipal Code, and also Chairman of a Committee, raised at his request, to perfect the system of Drains and Ditches in Ohio. In all he took an active and leading part in shaping the important. legislation that commanded the attention of the legislature. On December 20, 1874, he was married to Miss Ella Rice, of Van Wert, by whom lie has two sons, named William and Glenn. HIRAM C. GLENN was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, October 8, 1838. His parents, William and Priscilla Glenn, were born and raised in Jefferson County, Ohio, and had four children, two sons and two daughters, of whom Hiram is the third child. The elder brother was a Sergeant in Company K, 40th 0. V. I , and was killed at the battle of Shiloh on April 6th, 1802, and the youngest daughter died in 1865. The oldest daughter is married and lives in Nebraska. The father died in 1856. This family moved to Van Wert County and located in Harrison township, where they remained until 1847, when they moved to Pleasant township, and in 1850 they came to the town of Van Wert. The subject of this sketch attended the common schools in the country, the advantages of which were primitive, but by hard study and close application lie acquired the qualification to teach school during the winter. He also worked at the trades of carpenter and painter. He commenced reading law with J. H. Krole, Esq , who, about a year afterwards, removed to Indiana. Mr. Glenn then completed his readings with Judge 0. W. Rose, and in 1867 Ile was admitted to the bar by the District Court. The same year he was elected a Justice of the Peace for Pleasant township, which office he filled until 1870, when he was elected and served one term as mayor of Van Wert. While performing the duties of these offices he also practised law, and is now the oldest inhabitant of the county practising at the bar of Van Wert. He is a conscientious and faithful attorney, and in all respects an upright and honorable citizen. In August, 1805, he married Georgians Baughman, of Plymonth, Ohio, who has borne him four children, only one of whom, Ione, is living, aged twelve years. JAMES L. PRICE was born in Carroll County, Ohio, March 27, 1840. He attended the common schools in the country, which was followed by several years' attendance at an academic institution near Hagerstown, Carroll County, as a. preparatory step to entering college. The latter idea was abandoned, however, and in 1859 he commenced the study of law with Con. E. R. Eckley, and was admitted to the bar in the fall of 1861, at Cadiz, Ohio, and immediately began the practice of law at Carrollton, Ohio. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Carroll County in 1862, and Served two years. In April, 1865, he removed to Van Wert, where he continued to remain. In 1868 he was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Van Wert County, and held that office six years, having been twice re-elected. During. his residence in Van Wert he was also President of the Board of Education of that city for ten years. Recognizing the broad views held by him upon all questions of public interest and importance Lo the nation, as well as his wide popularity, the Republican party of the Sixth Congressional District nominated hint for. Congress in 1878, his opponent being Hon. W. D. Hill. Though the district was Strongly Democratic Mr. Price made an effective race and won many friends. He is an able lawyer, brilliant public speaker, quick in comprehending a point, and has peculiar ability in explaining his thoughts upon any question. Mr. Price has been twice married. His first wife was Martha Guinney, whom lie married in Harrison County, Ohio, January 1, 1862, and who died in Van Wert, August 13, 1866. His second wife was Elizabeth Marshall, to whom he was united March 8, 1868. He has one son living, Charles, aged 18 years. DR. H. C. MCGAVREN vas born in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, July 30, 1824. His father with his family came to Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1828. Remaining here four years or until 1832, circumstances warranted the family in removing to Hardin County, Ohio, where they permanently settled, and which was a part of the Northwest Territory. His honored father lied in 1853, but his beloved mother, after the death of her husband; removed to Iowa, and died at the advanced age of 83 years, and passed beyond the river of death to the happiness of a never ending immortality. Hugh, from his boyhood, expressed the great desire of his heart, to be enrolled among those who not only administer to the relief of his fellowmen, but relieve the ills and pains of life. Under this state of feelings, and brought up with bright hopes and prospects of success, and with that indomitable energy of mind, which has so effectually characterized his every act, entered upon the study of medicine in 1845, in Wyandot County, and in the true spirit of determined manhood proclaimed to his relatives and friends "there is no such word as fail." Dr. McGavren moved from Wyandot County with his brother Andrew in the spring of 1853, but did not commence the practice of medicine until 1854, when he entered into partnership with Dr. Mecker. In 1865 he removed to Shanesville, and at the solicitation of kind friends located permanently in 1867 at Van Wert. He married Miss M. J. Linderman, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and was blessed with five children, two of whom, hi their days of infancy and purity, passed from life—but one son (Dr. G. W. McGavren), and two daughters survive, one of whom is married to Dr. H. H. Holbrook, of Defiance, Defiance County, Ohio. In all public; enterprises he was among the foremost, and the people of Van Wert owe him a debt of gratitude for his herculean efforts in behalf of the establishment of the narrow-gauge railroad, which is laid out from Van Wert to Shanesville. We desire to record a fact in regard to the McGavren family which has not its equal on record. In 1866 there were sixty-five physicians of the name of McGavren, all relatives, engaged in the practice of medicine, who are scattered throughout the States of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska. Of his six brothers three were physicians. DR. WILLIAM SMITH William Smith and Mary Lyle Smith were the parents of Dr. William Smith, who was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, Feb. 28, 1822, and in the fall of the Sallie year his parents moved to Richland County, Ohio. William, when young, attended school at Mansfield, and as he advanced in years he entered the high school, and becoming perfett in the studies he was received into the academy taught by L. Andrews and J. Johnson, at .Ashland, Ohio. His academic course being finished, he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. A. G. Miller, he teaching school in the winter of 1845 in Millsboro', and pursuing his medical studies in the summer months. In the spring of 1846 there was a. call for volunteers to serve one year to protect our country from the aggressions of Mexico. Dr. Smith was elected 2d lieutenant of Company 0, Third Regiment of Volunteers, in which Thomas H. Ford was captain and Samuel L. Curtis colonel, who also served as colonel in the rebellion of 1861. The Third Regiment served its full term, and was discharged in New Orleans, July 4, 1841. On his return, Dr. Smith attended the medical lectures in the winter of 1847-48 at Cleveland Medical College, 101d commenced the practice of medicine in April, 1848, at Ganges, Richland County, and resided there eight years, after which lie removed to Van Wert in 1850. In removing to Van Wert he did not immediately commence the practice of medicine, but bought a saw-mill, made full and necessary repair, and added a pair of first-class chopping buhrs. After this mill was Di successful operation he erected the flour-mill which was built where the city Mill now stands, on Jackson Street, on the west side of Town Creek. Dr. Smith continued to run the flour-and sawmill until the rebellion broke out. Then a regiment was to be organized, for which he zealously labored, and was elected lieutenant, and was promoted to the rank of captain for raising the company. At the organization of the regiment he was elected major, and afterwards lieutenant-colonel. He was in the service of his country from 1861 to Sept. 1864, when his term of service of three years haying expired, Col. Smith returned to his peaceful home at Van Wert, threw aside his military life, and resumed the practice of medicine. As a physician he stands deservedly high in the affections of his fellow-citizens by his kindness, attention, and success, and as a citizen always Willing to assist in any enterprise which will promote and advance the interests and prosperity of the town and county which he has chosen for his permanent residence. Dr. Smith married Miss Elmira Mulford, of New Haven, Huron County, Ohio, and has been blessed with eight children, one of whom passed from earth in early life. J. KEARSLEY WOODS, M.D., was the son of Alexander Woods, and was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, in 1826. He received a classical education at the Delaware University in this State, and graduated in 1847. He attended one session at the Medical College of Ohio, which was located at Cincinnati, and graduated at the College of Medicine and Surgery in the same city. Dr. Woods commenced the practice of medicine in 1849 in Darke County, and removed to Lima in 1S52 and was engaged in an extensive practice until 1861. At the breaking out of the Rebellion lie had the honor of being appOinted surgeon of a regiment of Ohio volunteers. The regiment was stationed at Knoxville and other points, where lie HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 183 served nearly two years. In 1862 he settled in Mendon; Mercer County, and after remaining there ten years he removed to Van Wert in 1872. Dr. Woods married Miss Rebecca Lynch, of Greenville, Ohio, and has been blessed with five children, three sons and two daughters. He has been honored with membership in the Ohio State Medical Society in 1854, and in the American Medical Society in 1872, and also in several lotal societies. For thirty-two years he has applied himself to the practice of medicine, and in all these years his time and his talents have been devoted exclusively to his profession—a profession which was the choice of his life. By constant reading, thoughtful meditation, and forming his theory at the bedside of his patient, he has been eminently suctessful in not only alleviating suffering and pain, but in restoring to health the suffering patient. We desire to place upon record a remarkable incident in regard to the Woods family. Alexander Woods was born in a to cabin in Miami township, Montgomery County, Ohio; Lis son, Dr. J. Kearsley Woods, in the same room ; and also his son, Dr. J. K. Woods, and grandson of Alexander Woods. Thus for three generations the Woods family have entered the world in the same humble cottage—all possessed of intelligent and excellent minds—keeping steadily in view to act well and faithfully their respective parts on life's vast stage. DR. JOHN WHEATON UNDERHILL is a descendant of Capt. John Underhill, of Flushing, Long Island, N. Y., who emigrated to this country from Europe in 1617, and was a conspicuous and successful .participant in what is called King Philip's war. His genealogy may be thus traced : Abraham was the son of Capt. John Underhill; William, the son of Abraham Underhill ; Nathan, the son of William Underhill ; Tarltess Underhill, the son of Nathan and Lucina Strong Underhill, married Minerva Davis, of whom was born Dr. John Wheaton Underhill. The subject of this sketch was born in Bennington County, Vermont, August 13, 1824. He was reared and educated in the schools of his native State, New York, and Ohio, until his admission to practice medicine in 1845. He located in Cleveland, Ohio, for two years. and after- ,e wards in Kentucky, where he was recommended to go by the Faculty, hearing testimonials of a high character to Hon. Henry Clay., Ex-Gov. Desha, Col. Harris, and others. His residence in the South was a laborions hut a successful one. He emigrated to the State of Kansas in 1859, and in 1861 left on account of the rebellion and rejoined his friends in the North. Of the very many trials and difficulties he was obliged to encounter in the latter State in getting to the Union lines in July, 1861, he has nothing to offer. It is a matter of history in Arkansas on the frontier during the war, engaged for the most part in his profession, and although successful in business, he met with severe losses, having his home raided twice by bushwhackers; his residence moneys stolen, hospital burned down by incendiaries ; safe broken open, commands and having other reverses in consequence of change of his health and of unavoidable exposure in the Mississippi Valley hence his health failed him. In the fall of 1866, contemplating a change in locality, and being en route to Vermont, he was induced to stop at Van Wert in the spring of the following year and has continued to reside there ever since. In early life he was made a Free Mason, and received the chapter and Council degrees in 1853, the orders of Knighthood in 1857, traveled in 1860 and 1861 through the meandering route of the Scottish rite until lie had attained the 32d degree, or S. P.R. S. P. JOHN DINES, M.D., is a native of Frederick County, Maryland, and was born in the year 1815, and, after acquiring an education, commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Thomas Miller, of Washington City, and received the degree of M.D. from the Baltimore Medical College in 1837. In 1838 he went to Bucyrus, Ohio, and entered government land, and settled in an Wert Nov. 30, 1838, and has the 'distinguished honor Of being the first .physician and surgeon who settled in Van Wert, in which town he has always resided, except two years, when be went to California to recuperate his health, which had been broken down by the arduous labors of his profession. On March 6, 1842, Dr. Hines married Miss Relief Morse. They have been blessed with a family of six children—four boys and two girls—of these, three boys have arrived at manhood, and the daughter at womanhood, all of whom are married, acting their respective parts on life's stage; but one son and one daughter have crossed the silent river of death. Dr. Hines, in addition to attending to the arduous duties of his profession, has filled many important official positions. We mention that of deputy clerk under Robert Gilliland, auditor, during of the county in the lower branch of the Ohio Legislature during 1847-48, and also postmaster of this town. All and every position he filled with credit to himself and honor to the citizens, who respect The people of Van Wert owe him a debt of gratitude for his instrumentality in having the court-house removed from Wiltshire to this place in 1839. As the first physician and citizen who settled here, he a lie Kept pace with the public spirit of the town and won the smiles of whole community. DR. H. G. DAVIS was born in Loudon County, Va., in 1824. He is the son of Rev. Daniel Davis, of the M. E. Church, who settled in Barnesville in 1830, then removed to Muskingum County. Dr. Davis attended school in Zanesville, but his medical education was received at Buffalo and Baltimore Colleges. He settled in Brainbridge two years, then in Chillicothe twenty. years, then in Brookville two years, and finally to Van Wert in January, 1873. He is married to Miss Emelia Rice, and has two sons and two daughters. L. ARTHUR HINES, M.D., who is a son of the venerable Dr. P. John Hines, was born in 1842. He pursued in early life a regular education, and after becoming acquainted by close application to the usefulness and necessity of the arts and sciences, began the study of medicine with his father ; and after attending the medical lectures the full term, he was honored with the degree of M.D. by the Medical College at Washington. Dr. Hines and his father are also engaged in the drug business. COL. ISAAC N. ALEXANDER. Col. Alexander was born December 14, 1832, in Harrison County, Ohio. He received an academic education at New Hagerstown, Carroll County, and a scientific and philosophic education at Oberlin, Ohio. When he had finished his education thus far, lie chose the profession of law, and commenced its study under Hon. John A. Bingham at Cadiz, Ohio, and was admitted- to practice law in June, 1857, in the Supreme Court of Ohio. Col. Alexander married Miss Rebecca Alban at Findlay, Ohio, June 23, 1857, and immediately thereafter opened a law office at Van Wert, and continued actively engaged in its practice until the break- ing out of the Rebellion. Believing his duty to his country superior to all others, he entered its service for three months in Company E, Fifteenth Ohio. Volunteer Infantry, which expired in August, 1861. The love of country again prompted him to enter as a private. in the Forty-sixth Regiment Ohio. Volunteer Infantry, and he had the honor of holding all the grades of rank up to and including Lieutenant Colonel. He participated with the army .of the Tennessee in all its battles and skirmishes, and for his gallant and meritorious conduct received the congratulations of his soldiers and brother officers. On returning to his home he again resumed the practice of law, which he has continued uninterruptedly. His fellow-citizens have conferred upon him many political honors by electing him as their representative. Col. Alexander served in the Constitutional Convention of Ohio in 1.872, and discharged the duties incumbent on him as their representative, and was a member of the Electoral College which elected Rutherford. B. Hayes, ['resident of the United States. He has filled the offices of Mayor, member of the Board of Education, Notary Public, etc., acceptably to the 'people who honored him with their suffrages. Col. Alexander's family consists of himself, his wife, Miss Ella, Miss Emma, and their brother Willie. Miss Ella received the highest literary and classical education, and graduated at Wooster University with the highest honors. She has since held a position as teacher in the Van Wert High School. Miss Emma is at present a Junior in the Philosophical course of the same college. EMERSON, MARBLE & CO. The members of this old and highly successful banking firm have long been connected with the active business interests of this part of the State. Dr. Emerson, the senior member of the firm, established the first bank in this section of the country, under the style of Emerson & Wells. Agriculture being more to the taste of Mr. Wells, he early retired from the firm and removed to his farm, west of Van Wert, the business being continued by C. Emerson until 1864, when, in connection with Mr. D. Burt and others, the business was merged into the First National Bank of Van Wert in 1869. For health reasons Dr. Emerson removed to Colorado, establishing in that new and progressive State two banks, which are among the leading institutions of the State. J. M. C. Marble, Esq., established the First National Bank in this District, which has proved one of the most successful institutions in Ohio, and the principal means in the large development of the town of Delphos, and managed the same until he became interested in the First National Bank of Van Wert in 1872. Ile removed to Van Wert and took the management of this bank through the crisis of 1873 and the depression following, with what success is well known to the people in this vicinity. In 1878 Emerson & Marble sold their stock in that institution, and not finding retirement to their taste, shortly after established the present banking House, which from its safe condition has had a very liberal support. W. H. Pennell, Esq., the youngest man of the firm, is one of our most enterprising young business men, who has been equally successful in all his undertakings; whose energy and talents have done much to meet the success of the large and prosperous business. The firm and its members have always been foremost in all public works calculated for 184 - HISTORY OF. VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. the general good, and have done much to encourage all popular movements for the advancement of the best interests of the town of Van Wert and its people, the appreciation of which is shown by the public encouragement in a business which is exceeded by few or any country banks of the State. Aside from the general and usual business of bankers they loan very largely at long time on real estate mortgages, anti also to towns, townships, counties, and cities of this State. DR. P. W. DEPUY was born in Starke County, 1824, and, after receiving a scientific education, became a student of medicine under Doctors Underwood and Ferguson in Baltimore, Ohio. He commenced the practice of medicine at Willoughby, and afterward removed to Fort Wayne, and then removed to Van Wert in 1846. Here he remained but one year, and by special invitation settled at Wabash, Indiana, but returned again in 1858 to Van Wert, and went into partnership with Dr. Lenox. From 1859 to 1862 he was a partner of Dr. P. J. Hines. During the commencement of his professional career he had serious obstacles to encounter—the want of good roads, the streams without bridges, and the diseases incident to a wet, marshy soil, required patience and perseverance. lie is still actively engaged in the practice of his profession. CAPT. DAVID P. DUNATHAN. His father, Robert H. Dunathan, formerly resided in Mercersburg, Franklin County, Penna., but left there in 1831, and removed to Hamilton County, Ohio, and thence to Sidney, Shelby County. He married Mary Elizabeth Protsman. David P. Dunathan was born in 1840, and was raised on a farm until he was twenty years of age, then went into the army in Company A, Forty-sixth Regiment. After serving one year he was promoted to the captaincy of the same company, under Colonel Thomas Worthington and Lieutenant-Colonel I. N. Alexander. Captain Dunathan served during the entire war, and returned home in 1865. The first battle he was in was at Pittsburg Landing, where he was wounded and sent to the hospital at Louisville, Kentucky, but as soon as he was able he returned to duty. He was put on picket guard with a company of thirty men at Lafayette, Tennessce. and was captured by Col. Jackson, of Mississippi, and detained a prisoner for ninety days, and afterwards paroled at Vicksburg, Mississippi. lie came up the Mississippi River and joined his regiment at Memphis, Tennessee, and then remained with the regiment. He also marched with Gen. Sherman to the sea. After the close of the war he married Miss Amelia Gilliland, and has two daughters. He went into the drug business with Dr. Sterne'', and at the present time is engaged in the grocery and provision business. Capital invested, $8000. DR. G. W. McGAVREN, son of Dr. H. C. McGavren, of Van Wert, Ohio, was born in Wyandot County. Ohio, in 1850. He received an academic and classical education. Studied medicine with his father, and received the degree of' Doctor. of Medicine in 1873, from the Cincinnati Medical College. He married Miss Emma McKim, and we may predict that with the character, energy, and perseverance of his father, he Will arrive at the same degree of eminence. Purity of life and strict attention to business will abundantly secure to him the rewards and honors which await the labors of the devoted and sympathizing physician. ALONZO CONANT was born in Oxford County, Maine, March 17, 1817. At twenty-two years of age he came to Columbus, Ohio, and remained there and in its vicinity for thirteen years. He was married to Miss Esther A. Clark, of Delaware County, Ohio, November 22, 1849. lie removed to Van Wert in August, 1852, and engaged in the grocery and provision business until 1869. In 1870, a stock company was formed by the business men of Van Wert for the purpose of manufacturing staves, of which he was elected principal manager, and held the position for three years. At the present time (1880), lie is the President of the First National Bank of Van Wert. DR. LEVI A. KISER was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, October 4, 1809, came to Mercer County in 1826; settled in Centre township, four miles from Shanesville, when there were no houses between Mercer and Fort Recovery. In 1830 he commenced the practice of medicine—he has a wife and five children. He was in the Mexican war for one year, under Gen. Z. Taylor. Smith H. Clark was the captain of Company D, Seventh Regiment, in the Rebellion, of which he was a member. He served two years, and participated in the battles of Shiloh, Fort 'Donaldson, and Fort Henry, and on account of disability was discharged. DR. WILLIAM MULFORD SMITH, son of Dr. William and Elmira M. Smith, was born in July, 1857, and attended all the various grades of schools in Van Wert, and acquired the usual knowledge imparted therein. He commenced the study of medicine under his honored father, Dr. William Smith, in 1877, and received the degree of M.D. at the Medical College of Columbus. He has settlement in Van Wert, and remains with his father. O. D. SWARTOUT, ESQ., is the special agent of the Union Central Insurance Company of Cincinnati, and of the following companies: Phenix, of Brooklyn; Newark, N. J.; Watertown, N. Y.; Revere, of Boston; Centre, of Covington, Ky.; Cooper, of Dayton, O.; Merridan, of Ky.; Howard, N. Y.; Rochester .(German), N. Y.; Richland, Ohio, Mutual; Western Mutual, of Urban Mr; Swartout's office is in the Van Wert Bank building. His devotion to business, his experience in all matters relating to life and fire insurance, and his selection of the very best companies in the United States all established on a firm and solid basis, is the best evidence of the success which he deserves. DR. WILLIAM NELSON LONGSWORTH was born in Frederick County, Maryland, in 1818, received a liberal education, and commenced the study of medicine in Wayne County, Ohio, under Professor Leander Firestone, of Wooster University. Having completed his course, he commenced the practice in Canaan Centre, Wayne County, and afterward Moved to Cuyahoga County, Ohio; thence to Laporte, Lorraine County, and finally settled, in June, 1853, in V Wert City. Dr. Longsworth was also engaged with Mr. W. H. Pennel in the drug business. Seeing the necessity of improving the city as well as of developing the resources of the county, he established a Handle factory in 1871. The size of the building is forty by eighty feet, and is located on Jackson and Cherry Strcets. Capital invested, $15,000. Number of hands employed, twenty. Dr. Longsworth has another factory at Lima. The capacity of the two factories per annum is 800,000 fork, hoe, and rake handles, and 200,000 broom handles. T. S. McKim was born in Ross County, Ohio, in 1818, and spent much of his early life in Indiana and Ohio, up to 1844. At twenty-one years of age he learned the tin and coppersmith business at Richmond, Indiana. He commenced commercial life at Willshire, and settled in Van Wert in 1855. lie married Miss Elizabeth Barks, of Shane's Crossing, County, and has three children, two girls and one boy. He purchased lot 24, corner of Main and Washington streets, and erected thereon story brick building; the first story has three store rooms and bank building, at present occupied by T. S. McKim & Son, the second and third stories, offices and sleeping rooms. The lot cost $2200 and the building $11,000. Capital invested in buildings and stock $18,000, by T. S. McKim & Son. DR. C. A. MELSHEIMER was born in Stark County, Ohio, January 8, 1827, received a liberal and scientific education, and studied medicine with L. M. Whiting in Canton, Ohio. After completing his medical studies he settled in New Corydon, Indiana, and remained three years—then removed to Willshire and practised for eight years, and finally to Van Wert, where he also engaged in the drug business, February 3, 1860. He erected on lot No. 26, a three-story brick building; the first story being 22 by 130 feet, and the other two, 22 by 75 feet, which are thus occupied: first story as a drug store, second story as offices, and the third for public meetings. Value of property, $8900. Dr. Melsheimer married Miss Elizabeth Maria Haack on 25th of April, 1853, and leis five living children. A. P. MCCONAHAY is a practical clock and watchmaker and jeweller. He learned the business in all its branches with S. R. Turner in Terre Haute, Indiana, and afterwards settled in Van Wert, in 1854. As a practical business man, a good and exemplary citizen, devoted to the interests of the city and county and the wants of the people, he stands unrivalled. Purchasers never leave his establishment (after making their purchase), Without hieing well satisfied that in all things " his word is his bond." The capital invested in his business amounts to $5000. I. W. PENN was born in Baltimore County, Maryland, in 1816, and came to Wert in 1845. He learned the cabinet making buSiness in Zanesville. Was in the army from 1860 to 1865, in company K, Forty-sixth Regi- HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 187 ment. under Capt. Wm. Smith and Capt. I. N. Alexander, and did duty .,1, Pittsburg Landing, siege of Corinth, Memphis, siege of Vicksburg, ,Mississippi, and Big Creek, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. On lot No. 52 he erected a three-story furniture wareroom at a cost of $6000. Capital invested in the business belonging to I. W. Penn & Co., $4000. DR. E. L. WILKINSON was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1843, and after receiving the usual education he studied .medicine with Dr. McDonald, graduated at Starling Medical College, Columbus, received the degree of M. D., and „wed in Kansas in 1867 ; remained there, performing acceptably the requirements of his profession; until he removed and settled at Van Wert in 1874, where he is successfully employed. DR. CORBIN was born in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, in 1837, studied the Principles of Medicine and Surgery under Dr. McCandless (an allopathit physician) at South Amboy, Armstrong County, and afterwards, in 1871, with Dr. G. T. Harding (a homoeopathist) in Marion County, Ohio. He removed to Van Wert in June, 1879. SIMON SWINEFORD was born in Snyder County, Pennsylvania, July 10, 1819, and removed to Ashland County, Ohio, in 1837, and engaged in the business of. sign painting, and continued in the same for five years. During this period, or On Nov. 22, 1840, he married Miss Rachel Claburg. In 1852 he removed from Ashland and settled in Van Wert. Here his mind underwent a change on business questions. He felt he could be more useful as a citizen, and at the same time acquire a greater competency for himself and family, by entering mercantile life. Thus believing, he beeame a clerk in the mercantile establishment of Judge A. W. Baker, and continued until he became proficient therein. Mr. Swineford's industrious habits, moral deportment, and constant and unwearied attention to business attracted the attention of Alonzo Conant, Esq., which resnlted in a partnership being established, which proved eminently successful. In process of time it was dissolved, and Mr. Swineford commenced mercantile life on the corner of Main and Washington streets in which he continued until his death, which occurred on Nov. 30,1878, after an illness of one year, four mouths, and thirteen days, of a cancerous formation of the stomach. His beloved wife Rachel, two who are imitating the honorable example of their father, and an only daughter intermarried with Orlando D. Swartout, Esq , with a host of surviving friends, mourn the irreparable loss. During the years of his mercantile life he had acquired a handsome fortune by strict attention to business, without fraud or deceit, always keeping ini view the principles of truth and justice. Living according to these, he was blessed abundantly, and a part of the wealth he accumulated was judiciously expended in a family home, public improvements, and by investment in the First National Bank, so that the all citizens might be benefitted thereby. The public interests he espoused and managed, the offices he held by appointment and election from time to time, his official acts in the bank as a director and vice-president, are each and all monuments of his foreseeing mind and his sterling worth. His remains were interred in Woodland Cemetery, after services had been performed at his residence on Jefferson Street by Rev. D. L. McKenzie. GEORGE MARSH came to this place from Athens, Athens County, Ohio, and was a native of Connecticut. He was engaged in the sale of patent brass clocks, and came to Van Wert in 1834-5. He moved his family finally in 1847-8, and purchased the St. Charles Hotel (now the De Puy House), and afterwards removed to Athens County. He owned large tracts of land, and his son, George H. Marsh, resides on his farm adjoining Van Wert on the east. At the date of the sale of town lots he purchased a tract of land, commencing at the corners of sections 11,12,13, and 14, and from said corners south in the west line of section 12—one rod south of the middle fork of Little Auglaize River, and from thence to a point opposite the south end of Jefferson Street, and follow north to the section line, and from that point westward to the place of beginning—to have all the lands "except the commons" for $150, but if Mr. Marsh would erect a saw-mill within two years and within one mile of Van Wert, he was to pay only $100, and gave James W. Riley as security. DAVIS JOHNSON resided in Wiltshire Township until 1836, when he became a resident of Harrison Township, having moved with his father, Joseph Johnson, who was elected County Commissioner in 1837. Mr. Johnson and family were natives of Virginia. He is a man of positive character, with a vigorous constitution, habits of industry, temperance, and untiring energy. On the organization of Harrison Township he was elected Justice of the Peace, in which office he continued for fifteen years, and as long as he remained in that township. was also surveyor. In 1854 he moved to Van Wert, and was married by Rev. Thomas Elcock, Feb. 6, 1854, to Miss Susan A. Lennox. He continued his duties as Surveyor, and at the breaking out of the rebellion was County Treasurer. Each and every office he held has been filled to the entire satisfaction of the people. DANIEL COOK was born in Vermont, Oct. 3, 1800, and moved to Richland County, Ohio, with his parents in 1805. March, 1826, he married Miss Rhoda McMinima, who was born Dec. 5, 1806. April 4, 1837, they moved to Van Wert County, and kept the first hotel in the town in a frame house on the corner of Walnut and Main streets. he built a house and storeroom on the lot now occupied by Mr. McKim. Mr. Cook's lite was a busy one in caring for the wants of strangers who were here to select lands for a future home or for speculation. The hotel he kept was on the lot where the American House now stands. He kept. the hotel four or five years. then moved one-half mile west of Van Wert on a farm, Upon which he lived until his death, which occurred June 8, 1849, being forty-eight years, seven months, and five days old. The death of his wife occurred about a year later. They left six children, five of whom are still living—four daughters and one son. W. RILEY COOK was the only son of Daniel Cook. He was born in Richland County, Ohio, Dee. 28, 1833. When about three months old, or on 14th April, 1837, his parents moved to Van Wert, and he was the first white boy brought. to the town, where he lived until two or three years after the death of his parents, when he went to Iowa, but returned in one year. Mr. Cook married Miss Ethelinda E. Coe, daughter of Gen. James Coe. At that time he lived on a portion of what was once his father's farm, until 1862, when, the war breaking out. he enlisted in time 15th 0. V. I. and went South in the midst of strife and bloodshed, leaving a wife and two small children. Having passed through several battleS,he was wounded at Itesaca, Georgia, May 4, 1834, the ball striking his left shoulder and passing out at his back beneath the shoulder-blade. From the effects of this wound he came very near losing his life, and his wife visiting hint under the circumstances, brought him home to Van Wert on a two months' furlough. After its expiration he had recovered so far as to return, and remained until the close of the war. After returning north he engaged in the grocery business, in which he is now engaged ; also that of a money broker, buying notes and loaning money. JAMES W. EVANS is the son of Jordan Evans. He was born in Raleigh, North Carolina, March 25, 1835, and his father removed to Wiltshire Township, Ohio. He, however, left his father's home and settled in Van Wert as a barber, to which occupation he had been brought up. It is eminently due to him to state that his devotion to business and his refraining from intermedling with the business of others, has secured to him the friendship and esteem of his fellow-citizens. ADAM AND WILLIAM NIMMONS moved to Van Wert from Bucyrus, Ohio, with his brother William, in the fall of 1838. They built a storehouse on their lot where the old Buckingham storehouse stands, it being the first house west of Dr. DePuy's. In it they opened the first stock of drygoocls, groceries, and general merchandise, except a few articles which had previously been kept by S. M. Clark. These brothers, after some time, removed to Wolf Lake, Indiana. SAMUEL M. CLARK moved with his family to Van Wert from Allentown, Allen County, Ohio, and worked at the blacksmith trade, kept a hotel, and built a grist-mill on the north bank of Town Creek (see. History of Mills). He was elected and served as sheriff in 1844-45, and afterwards removed west of the Mississippi. W. S. and W. A. SNASHALL are engaged in the jewelry business. W. S., the father, settled in Van Wert in 1857, and is now in his eighty-first year. He purchased lot No. 15 in Van Wert, and erected thereon a house 22 by 80 feet, two stories high. Valuation, $6000. W. S. Snashall left England 1856, stopped at Zanesville, and finally settled at Van Wert. WILLIAM STRIPE, of Fairfax County, Ohio, settled in Van Wert on the lot he purchased, and commenced the business of cooper. The lot was No. 35, corner of Walnut and Main streets, and the house was the first frame building erected in the town. At the end of the lot was his cooper shoo. He died on this lot. 188 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. JOSEPH GLEASON was born in Ontario County, State of New York, in 1803, where he lived on a farm until May, 1837, when he brought his wife and three children to Lorain County, Ohio. There he left his family, and came to Van Wert County and entered 128 acres of land in the southwest corner of Pleasant Township. He then returned to Lorain County, and brought his family to Van Wert County about Aug 1, 1837. At that time there were but five families living in the township. In 1829 he married Harriet Brown, by whom be had eight children, seven of whom are living, viz., Mary E., Alonzo, Andrew J., Abraham, Frank, Julia, and Ellen. When Mr. Gleason first came to the county he lived On his land until Dec. 1839, when he received the appointment of county recorder. He then moved to the town of Van Wert, where he has lived to the present time. When he moved to town he rented a double log house, and kept a hotel for several years. Ile has been elected to the office of justice of the peace, but was not eligible, yet, his neighbors insisting, he filled the office for fifteen years. He was also one of the associate judges of the county for several years. Mr. Gleason is one of the oldest residents of the town, having lived therein for forty-two years without removal. He has retired from the active business and cares of M, and lives to enjoy the fruits of his past labors. CYRUS G. WILKINSON was born in Pennsylvania in 1808, and settled in Columbiana County in 1824. He married Rebecca Ladd in 1829, from which marriage twelve children have been born, six of whoM are living. Mr. Wilkinson moped to Hancock County in 1848, bought a farm and lived upon it until 1873, when he moved to the town of Van Wert and engaged in the boot and shoe trade with his son Malen, under the firm name of C. O. Wilkinson & Son. Malen Wilkinson was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1839; went with his parents to Hancock County, where he married Margaret A. Carr, Aug. 12, 1860. The boot and shoe firm of C. G. Wilkinson & Son Originally was under the title of Kleppinger & McKim. This was about 1860. In the year 1869 it passed into the hands of Wm. Seville, who in one year sold an interest therein to Mr. Wilkinson, and the firm became Seville & Co. One year afterwards Mr. Wilkinson became the sole owner, and kept it as such until he took his son into partnership. . JACOB FOX, son of John Fox, was born in Columbiana County in 1816, and resided there until 1852, When, with his wife and two children, he located in the town of Van Wert. In 183s he married Catharine Zimmerman, by Whom he had two children, one of Whom is now living, viz., 14 C. Fox; the other, Lucretia, became the wife of Abraham Gleason, but died in 1867. Mr. Fox is a carpenter by trade, which he has followed for thirty years. Mrs. Fox died in 1863. la .June, 665, he married Susan Zimmerman, the widow of John Zimmerman. In 1870 he bought an interest in the Union Mills, of Van Wert. and was the superintendent of the same for seven years; he then sold his interest in the in ill iii 1879. Mr. Fox ran the first train as conductor on the C. V. W. and S. L. Railroad, which he followed until the road was transferred to the C. V. W. and :Si. Railroad Company. He has now retired from active life. After 1863, and previous to his entering the mill, Mr. Fox engaged in the grocery and provision business. JUDGE ALONZO W. BAKER was born at Marion, Ohio, Dec. 31, 1828. His father moved to Lima, where he spent his boyhood days. In 1850 he married Charlotte Peters, of Fail field County, Ohio, by whom seven children have been born. T he first year after their marriage they liVed in Marion, Ohio, and in 1851 he settled in Van Wert. He engaged in the drygoods business, from which he retired during the war. He served his country four years as major of the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Ohio National Guard On his return he was appointed collector or internal revenue, and held the office until it was abolished by an act of Congress. He again entered the drygoods business for a season, but sold out and bought an interest in the Van Wert Foundry and Machine Works. This business he sold out to accept the office of probate judge, to which he was elected in 1872, and re-elected in 1875. He was renominated in 1878, but was attacked with hemorrhage of the stomach, and Sept. 9, 1878, calmly laid aside the joys and cares of an active life. WILLIAM PARENT was among the first inhabitants of the town, as the records show. He not only assisted in felling timber for the first houses that were built, but bid for opening new roads, constructing bridges and places or public interest. He married Miss Barbara Shingledecker, and purchased land a mile south of the east addition to the town of Van Wert, where he lived and died. J. K. SCOTT was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, Nov. 22, 1824. Tie came to Ohio With his father, William Scott, and located near Mansfield, Richland Comity. His education consisted of that acquired in the common school On Oct. 1, 1844, he married Miss Clarinda Patterson; of Richland County, born March 24, 1824, and daughter of ex-Congressman William Patterson. They settled on a farm in the same county, where he followed farming a few years. He then engaged in the saw-mill business, by taking contracts to furnish lumber for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, he doing the sawing himself. He was also an empioye of the road for three years as contractor for timber used in reconstructing the road. In the spring of 1853 he Moved his family to this county, and located on a farm one and a half Miles south of Van Wert. He again turned his attention to farming, Which he followed one year. In 1854 he moved to Van Wert and was employed by the Ohio and Indiana Railroad, bnt now called the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railroad, as road master. He had charge of the road from Van Wert to Lima, but afterwards from Van Wert to Fort Wayne, for four years, and then resigned. He followed farming, but in 1860 sold his farm and moved to Van Wert, where he has since resided. In 1861 he, in company with John A. Conn, engaged in the grocery business until 1870, When he sold out and purchased one-third interest in the Van Wert fight Barrel Stave Factory, which business he has since been engaged in. The firm is known as H. Butler & Co. He is the father of eight children, six of -whom are now living—three sons and three daughters. S. B. HERTZ, dealer in general hardware and farming implements, Nos. 21 and 23, corner of Main and Jefferson streets. Mr. Hertz was born in Union County, Penna., August 3, 1832. Ile obtained a common school education. He was raised On a farm, and followed farming until in 1862, when he removed to Van Wert. Soon after his arrival he, and his brother, U. W. Hertz, M.D., engaged in the hardware trade, June 1, 1863, his present location, the firm name being Hertz & Brother, and its business was carried on three years, when J. R. Heinly became a partner in the firm by purchasing' Dr. hertz's interest. and was changed to Hertz & Heinly. During the year 1866, Hertz & Heinly purchased the Van Wert planing mills and sash factory, Mr. Heinly taking charge of the factory and Mr. Hertz of the hardware trade. They continued as partners with both establishments until 1874, when it was dissolved by mutual consent, Mr. Heinly remaining at the factory and Mr. Hertz at the store. Mr. Hertz has conducted the business with eminent success, and Is considered the leading hardware dealer in the county; always keeping the largest and best assortment of everything required in the line o his business, also, paints, oils, sash, doors, etc., and agricultural implements. October 4, 1855, he married Ellen Rank, of Union County; she was born January 18, 1837. They celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary, of their marriage on October 4, 1880, which was made an occasion long to be remembered by their many friends. A. LYNCH, baker and dealer in groceries, confectioneries, glassware, notions, etc., at 47 East -Main Street. Mr. Lynch was born in Monroe County, Ohio, June 1, 1836. he was apprenticed in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, in 1859, and served three years to learn the trade of a baker. In 1662 he went to Upper Sandusky and took charge of a shop, and conducted the business for another person for three years. In 1865 he enlisted in Company 1 of the One Hundred and Ninety-second Regiment. and served until the close of the war. He was discharged, and returned home Sept. 8, 1865. In 1867 he located himself in Van Wert, where he began business for himself. He has conducted his business successfully, and by close application and energy he has increased his trade of the bakery, which requires two first-class assistants. In 1873-74 he erected the fine brick block, 22 by 80 feet, the lower room of which he uses as his main grocery department.; with other aril' ties in the line of his business. In 1665 he married Maggie Hammer, of Upper Sandusky, daughter Of Rev. George Hammer. They have four children--one son and three daughters. JOSIAH HATTERY. Josiah battery was born. in Virginia in 1820 in 1831 he moved to Columbiana County, and from thence in 1846 to Van Wert. In 1842 he married Elizabeth Ritter, by whom he had seven children. He was a cabinet-maker by trade, and kept the first cabinet and furniture store in the town of Van Wert. The first six months he was in his business in Van Wert he only received $2.50 in cash, and the balance of the account was paid in furs and skins. He died February 22, 1880, HISTORY OF VAN AVERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 189 S. SWINEFORD’S SONS, wholesale and retail dealers in groceries, provisions, queensware, glassware, etc., at the corner of Main and Washington streets. Mr. Swineford was born in Snyder County, Pennsylvania, July 10, 1819 ; he emigrated to Ohio and settled in Ashland in 1840. He married miss Rachel Clayburg, of Ashland. By this union they had five children, three of whom are now living-two sons and one daughter. In 1849 Mr. and Mrs. Swineford moved to Crawford County, Ohio, ,Ind located on a farm near Osceola, where he engaged in farming for a few years. In 1852 they settled in the town of Van Wert. He engaged as a clerk in A. W. Baker's dry-goods store for a short time, and in 1854, with Mr. A. Conant, commenced the grocery and provision business, and continued as partner until 1857, when Mr. Conant became sole proprietor. Mr. Swineford sought a new location for business, but returned again to Van Wert and erected a two-story frame building, 18 by 48 feet, on Washington Street (which is now used by the present firm as a ware-room), in which he engaged in the grocery trade, which he successfully conducted until 1865. He then took his two sons, B. C. and L. R. Swineford, as partners in the business, under the name of S. Swineford & Sons, which continued until his death, which occurred Nov. 30, 1878. The sons of Mr. Swineford then took charge of the business, under the same name, and deal in all kinds of groceries, provisions, queensware, glassware, and in tact everything in the grocery line. The firm. occupies the brick building erected by their honored father in 1866, on the corner of Main and Washington streets. The main business room is 22 by 75 feet, which is filled with a complete stock of goods. PERES M. DIX was born in Delaware County, Ohio, February 25, 1820. When he was twelve years of age his father died, and he was left largely dependent upon his own resources. When sixteen years old he had accumulated one hundred dollars, with which he paid for the entry of the eighty acres of land on which he lived. In the autumn of 1840 he married. Lavinia Wise, and in November following they moved to the farm already entered, which was located three miles southwest of the town of Van Wert. For some time after his settlement here he found himself contending with all the drawbacks incident to pioneer life. For instance, it was necessary, to go to Fort Wayne, a distance of over thirty miles, to mill, while groceries were to be obtained at Lima, distant about twenty-eight Miles. The money was obtained by the sale of " coon-skins," or by doing odd pieces of work here and there in the new settlement. It was no unusual occurrence to go a distance of eight or ten miles to assist in raising a cabin for some new settler. He has reared a family of ten 'Wren, as hereafter shown. Cynthia A. died in infancy; Mary E. married J. B. Pruden, but died in 1878, leaving a family of six children; Stephen L. was born in 1845, served throughout the late war, afterward married Sarah High, and has a family of throughout children; Nancy J. died at the age of four years; Peres Alvin was born in 1850, was married to Sarah E. Beck, and has a family of four .children; Thebe E. married Elias Morehead, and is the mother of three children; David N. married se J. Rockhold, and has two children; Druscilla Ann married Joseph Leslie, and is the mother of two children; John E., married Elizabeth Morrow and Clinton Main, who is unmarried Mr. Dix has been a resident of the county since November 10, 1840. July, 1858, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and has held the office continuously since that date, being now serving his eighth term. He became identified with the Republican party at its organization, and still believes it to be the party of liberty, equality, and progress. HENRY BUTLER, a native of England, was born in Nottinghamshire, February 12, 1839. he emigrated to America with his cousin William Cayworth, in 1849, when but ten years of age, leaving all his near connections in his native country. Landing in New York, he remained a short time, then removed to Zanesville, Ohio, where he had relatives. He finally came to Van Wert County, and made his home with his uncle, a farmer. He received a common school education, and was engaged at various business as an employe until the spring of 1861, when he enlisted in Company E, 15th Ohio Regiment, for three months, served four months and returned home. For two years he worked with a carpenter's gang on the railroad. In 1863 he re-enlisted in Company K, 88th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. He received his discharge July 8, 1865, and returned home. In one month afterwards he engaged in the manufacture of staves and heading for tight barrels, which business he has since been engaged in, and is considered one of Van Wert's best business men. March 1, 1866, he was married to Lizzie A. Trouty, daughter of Isaac Trouty. By this union they have one son and one daughter. In 1872 Mr.. Butler made his relatives in England a visit of three months, and then returned to Van Wert, where he has since continued his old business. - 23 - WILLIAM FRONEFIELD was born on Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Oct. 18, 1823. His parents came to Ohio in 1821, and located in Columbiana County for a few years, then to Stark County until 1839, when they settled in Union Township, Mercer County. Mr. Fronefield was raised on a farm, and naturally made farming his vocation, but in 1866 ,he settled in Van Wert town, and in company with two of his sons engaged in the butcher business, which they have conducted with great success. They have two establishments-one on South Washington Street, No. 14, and the other on East Main Street, No. 186. In 1844 he was married to Christina Chess, daughter of Henry Chess. She was born in Stark County, May 22, 1829, and came to this county with her parents in 1840. Mr. and Mrs. Fronefield settled on 80 acres of land in Ridge Township, made improvements, and lived four years. In 1848 they moved to Mercer County, and remained four years. In 1852 they removed to Ridge Township, and lived seven years. In 1859 he purchased and moved on his father's homestead, in Mercer County, where he remained until 18(35. He then sold the home-farm, moved to York Township, and purchased 80 acres, where they lived until 1866 ; then they removed to Van Wert, where they are now living. He served as constable of Ridge Township sixteen years, assessor of Pleasant Township, and coroner of the county. He raise a family of seven children-six sons and one daughter. His son Benjamin served about eighteen months in Company D, One Hundred and Ninety-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. Gable. WILLIAM C. SCOTT was born in Canonsburg, Washington County, Pennsylvania, July 1, 1833, and came to Ohio in 1839 with his parents, who located near Mansfield, Richland County. He was. educated at Haysville, Ashland County, in the Vermilion Institute, and after completing his education he made teaching his profession for a number of years. In 1855 he came to Van Wert and engaged as principal of the high school, and remained as such until 1860, when he purchased the Van Wert Bulletin, and became its editor. In 1861 he sold the Bulletin and entered Company H of the Fifteenth Ohio Regiment as 1st lieutenant under Capt. Gilliland, but, on account of sickness, Capt. Gilliland resigned his office, and Lieut. Scott was elected to fill the vacancy. He, however, resigned in May, 1862, came home, raised a company, and entered the Ninety-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry as captain of Company A, and served as such until he was fatally wounded at the battle of Stone River, on Jan. 2; 1863, and died Jan. 4, 1863. Aug. 26, 1856. he married M. T. McConahay, then of Van Wert. She was born in Mifflin County on Oct. 11, 1833, and came to Ohio with her parents in 1835. Their union resulted in two children, one of whom is living, viz., A. W. Scott, who resides in Van Wert. JACOB MILLER was born in Prussia, Feb. 18, 1825, and came to America in 1850, and located in this county. Dec. 6, 1850, he married Christina Fancier, who was born in Humbergh County, Russia, Aug. 25, 1824, and emigrated to America in 1850, and located here. They settled on a farm in Harrison Township, remained a short time, and then moved to within a short distance of Van Wert, and lived one year. In 1853 they moved to the town where they have since resided. They have five children—three sons and two daughters. Mr. Miller was engaged as an employe at different kinds of business until May, 1866, when he, in company with his son-in-law, Thomas Kippard, engaged in the grocery business in Van Wert. They deal in all kinds of groceries, confectioneries, and keeping an eating-house. In 1875 the partnership was dissolved by mutual consent, Mr. Kippard retiring. Mr. Miller then took his son Jacob Miller into partnership, which continued until April, 1881. Jacob Miller, Sr., sold his interest to .John Murphy, and the business is successfully conducted by Messrs. Miller & Murphy. JOSEPH S. HATTERY, son of Josiah Hattery, was born in the town of Van Wert, but was raised on a farm. In 1879 he married Julia Hackedorn ; they have one child, named Hillis H. Mr. Hattery, since manhood, has been engaged in trade. In December, 1877, he entered into the drug business, in which he is at present engaged. A. W. SCOTT & CO., dealers in groceries, queensware, glassware, etc. The firm was established May 17, 1880, by A. W. Scott & H. D. Moran. They occupy a large and commodious room at No. 43 West Main Street, which is filled to overflowing with everything in the line of their business. 190 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. C. P. RICHEY was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, on November 11, 1819. He was raised on a farm, and received a common school education, after which he engaged at farming for many years. In 1839 he married Martha T. Maddox, of Pickaway County, Ohio, and has five children, three of whom are living. In 1844 he located in Ridge Township and remained one year. In 1845 he purchased, made improvements, and moved on land in Pleasant Township, where he turned his attention to clearing land and farming for fifteen years. He built one of the first log-cabins north of Sugar Ridge, in Pleasant Township. In 1859 he was elected Sheriff of Van Wert County, served one term, and elected in 1861. After his election he removed to the town of Van Wert, where he has since resided. In May, 1864, he entered the army with the Ohio National Guard, of the 139th Regiment—served four months, and returned home. In the fall of 1864, he engaged in the boot and shoe business, and conducted it until 1876. In 1867 he was again elected sheriff, thus filling the office for six years. His wife died .July 24, 1866. He married Mrs. M. T. Scott, January 1, 1874. He was elected Justice of the Peace for Van Wert and Pleasant Township in April, 1880, and is now filling the office with his accustomed ability. THOMAS J. DAVIS was born in Pleasant Township, Van Wert County, in 1838. In 1860 he married Miss Martha La Rue : by this union they have seven children. in 1862 he enlisted in the 15th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served five months, and was discharged for injuries received and returned home. He afterwards raised a company for the 139th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, marched as captain of the company, and remained until his term of service had expired. William Davis, father of Thomas J. Davis, settled in Pleasant Township, and died in 1842. Capt. Davis now owns and resides on the old La Rue homestead, a view of which is shown in this work. EZEKIEL COLE was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, in 1827, where he lived until he was fourteen years of age, when his father came to Wayne County, Ohio. When eighteen years of age he learned the shoe trade, which he followed for nine years. In Dec. I858, he married Mary E. Spidle. They had three children, viz., Dr. T. J. Cole, Willie, and one deceased. In 1857 he commenced hotel-keeping at Milton, Starke County, and from that time to the present he has been engaged in the hotel business. Ile is at present the proprietor of the Van \Vert House. Mr. Cole is one of the popular landlords of Northern Ohio; his genial disposition and affable. was make him popular wherever he is known. Ilk hotel is always full of guests, who go away pleased, and are sure to return. ISAIAH JONES was born in Clermont County, Ohio, in 1826. He married :Rosanna R. Smith, and has three children. He settled in Van Wert County in 1852, in York Township, but in 1863 removed to Van Wert and engaged in the cooperage business, buying timber and hoop-poles. PLEASANT TOWNSHIP is bounded by Union Township on the north, Ridge Township on the east, Harrison Township on the west, and Liberty Township on the south.. This township was organized June 5, 1837, by the commissioners of the county upon the petition of citizens who requested its formation ; its limits as Pleasant Township to embrace township 2 south, of range 2 east, and the petitioners also requested that township 1 south, of range 1 and 2, and the north half of township 2 south, of range 1 east, be attached thereto for township purposes, which request was granted. An election for township officers was ordered to be held at the house of James Maddox on June 20, who resided on the farm belonging to E. R. Wells, Esq., and the number of votes polled was ten. At the first election no justice of the peace was voted for, but at a subsequent election held in Van Wert soon afterwards, Joseph Gleason was elected, which position he held by re-election for fifteen years. This election was held in the double log-cabin erected by Riley and his surveyors, and which was also used as a court-house. Oct. 20, 1840, an enumeration of the people of Pleasant Township was taken, which was as follows: 24 heads of families, or a total of 29 males, and 36 females. At this date, April 6, 1840, there was hut one assessor for the north half of Harrison was detached with its territory, an fall was organized into a separate township, March 27, 1839; Union was attached to Hoaglin March 22, 1840, leaving Pleasant Township in shape of all original Congressional township of thirty-six full sections until October 3, 1873, when the west half of section 18 and the southwest quarter of section 7 were taken from Ridge and annexed to Pleasant for the convenience of the citizens of Van Wert, included in the annexed territory. Mr. Hill was at the building of the first cabin in Van Wert, which was built by Wm. Brady for James Riley. First Settlers. Oct. 1835. Robert Gilliland. 1836., Augustus Bronson (died. Sept. 6, 1838), Asa Cook, Joshua Cook, Daniel Cook, Wm. Davis, Solomon Farman, Daniel Hipshire, Aaron Hipshire, Wm. Miller, James T. Maddox (2d settler), Samuel Maddox, John .Myers, John Maddox, Wm. Thorn, Robert M. Thompson, John F. Dodds, Elisha Wells, W. A. Wells, E. R. Wells, Wm. Stripe, Jesse B. Howes. 1837. Dr. Joseph H. Eaton, Joseph Gleason, Stephen Gleason, William Johns, Jacob W. Johns, Thomas Thorn, Benjamin Thorn, John Kessler. 1838. Asabel Aldeman, Rev. Simon Aldeman, Hercules Kane, Samuel M. Clark, James Q. Graves, Dr. P. John Hines, Wm. Caton. George McManama, Dr. Wm. Nimmons, Adam Nimmons, Levi Sawyer, Phineas S. Russell. 1839. Matthew Flagg, Thomas R. Mott, Jacob Thorn. 1840. Jacob Kyle, Gideon Mott, John Magner, Levi Stoltz, John Smith , John Tumbleson. 1841. Robert Miller. First Inhabitants. The first inhabitants of Pleasant Township, as we learn from there; cords in the beginning of the year 1837, were Mr. Myers and two families by the name of Hipshire, living three or four miles south of Van, Wert, on the same creek that runs through the town. Two families of the name of Maddox, on sections 8 and 9; Wm. Miller on section 3; Augustus Bronson on section 6, and Levi Sawyer on section 7. During the summer of the same year Mrs. Cook, the mother of Daniel and Asa Cook, William Davis and three families of the name of Wells settled four miles southwest of Van Wert. Elisha Wells then 50 years of age, with his son William, made the first start in this settlement. He the had previously entered his land in 1836. To get to it they followed wagon track along the ridge to a creek two miles west of Van Wert, then cut a track two miles up the creek to their land, which was the travelling with a team in that direction. Three families of the name of Gleason, from the State of New York, settled in the fall of 1837 on their land which they had previously entered in the southwest corner of Pleasant Township. After they had arrived at the little settlement of the Wells' and Cooks', they halted found until they found the location of their land. They set out, guided pocket compass, and by clearing out a wagon track, added two more of road in the direction of Willshire. The emigrant family of the Gleason's consisted of three men, six women, and seven children ; they built log cabins for winter quartet's—their wagons affording them shelter from cold and rain. Following these, the same fall, arrived three or four brothers of the name of Thorn, who built log cabins and devoted their time to hunting during the winter. Their location was four miles south of Vtil- Wert, and in the next season two of their families moved and settled permanently on the hand they had entered. At this date the settlement in Pleasant Township numbered sixteen families, which, according to statistics, Would uive a population of eighty persons. Then there were not eighty acres of cultivated land in the township, hence the materials for the sustenance of these people had to he obtained at a distance of from twenty-five to sixty miles. These newcomers, however, brought corn and hogs from Allen County at fabulous prices. In the region of Piqua, sixty miles south, the necessaries of life were More abundant, to which these settlers directed their way ; and the water-mills were peculiarly attractive. Gen. Wayne's trail, leading from St. Mary's to Fort Defiance, was the line of travel going south for provisions. The food of the early settlers consisted largely of torn bread, venison and wild fowl. These early settlers left comfortable homes, good friends, churches, and schools, and settled in a wilderness, destitute of all the coinforts,, and conveniences of life except the fertility of the soil. The floors or their cabins were made of hewn puncheons, or logs split into slabs, frog two to three inches thick, and then one side was hewn or faced with the broad-axe. The fire-place was constructed with damp clay, beat down and pressed together with a kind of maul. Chimney flues were made of clay, mortar, and sticks. The loft or upper doors were made of peeles HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 193 bark from the black-ash trees, fastened down with poles or split clap-boards, etc.; the wells were walled up with a hollow sycamore tree. To this early life must be added the herculean task of felling the timber of the forest before the land could be cultivated and the necessaries of life provided. The true kindness and amenities of life were practiced by the early settlers. When the provisions would become scarce, one of the number would go off to some older settlement and procure a fresh supply. On one occasion L. L S. Wells went to Sandusky City, and brought hack a supply of groceries, muslin, salt, etc., which enabled him to sell a portion of it to his neighbors. It has often taken five clays to make a trip to a horse-mill, four miles west of Lima and back again, when the creeks were full of water and the roads deep with mud. First Election. The first election ever held in Pleasant Township was in. Oct. 1837. The judges appointed to receive the votes were Daniel Cook, Levi Sawyer, a nd Elisha Wells. Mr. Wells declined to serve, and Stephen Gleason, who had only been a resident of the county three days, was appointed in his place. John F. Dodds and Mr. Hipshire acted as clerks. A hat was used for a ballot-box. About the middle of the day a fight occurred, and the judges and clerks all ran out to see the fight, carrying the hat with them. The election resulted in the choice of Robert Gilliland as county commissioner, James Gordon Gilliland treasurer, and J. P. Dodds auditor. During the Winter of 1837-38 there were few domestic animals in the township; perhaps there were not five horses; oxen were generally used. There were also a few cows and hogs, but no sheep. The cattle were Principally wintered on corn and browse, the former being raised from small patches of corn, which gave them but a limited supply, and on browse. by chopping down beech and sugar trees. The first journals of the commissioners show a map of the organized townships. of Pleasant, Ridge, Jennings, and Willshire. Two roads are platted: first, the Bucyrus and Fort Wayne road, one of which enters on the east side in section 25 of what is now Washington Township, entered Ridge Township at the southeast corner of section 12, Pleasant Township near the middle of the east line of section 13, passing through the southwest section 31 of Union township, and diagonally through the southeast corner of section 25 in Tully Township, and entering the State of Indiana near the .northwest corner of section 6, Tully Township. The other road was called the Shaneville and Defiance road. The first marriage in Pleasant township was David Johns, of Richland County, to Miss Sawyer. Two years afterwards Henry Foster to marriages: in 1840, there were sixteen marriages; in 1841, twelve 1945, eleven marriages in 1842, twenty marriages; in 1843, eighteen marriages; in marriages ; in 1846, twenty-six marriages; in 1847, thirty marriages; in 1848, thirty-two marriages; in 1849, sixty marriages; and in 1850, fifty-nine marriages—making 285 marriages in eleven years. The First Ditch was made by John Tomlinson, who came to this county in 1831. Mr. Tomlinson had, ten years before this period in Mercer County. First Death. Augustus Bronson, who lived in the northwest corner of the township, died of consumption, aged fifty years. Then there were no cabinetmakers or undertakers, or even lumber to make a. coffin, in the settlement. E. K. Wells and E. R. Parent, two young men who had but little experience in the carpenter business, concluded to prepare some kind of a coffin. After diligent search, they could find nothing but an old rough white-ash wagon box belonging to Mr. S. M. Clark, with several holes bored in the boards. Out of this they made the best coffin they could, and the body was interred on his own farm, a few rods from the cabin, the funeral being attended by his own family and six or eight neighbors. The original Entries in Pleasant Township as copied from the Records, giving entries up to 1854. Names. Acres. Year. 1 Charles Butler, 322 1836 James W. Riley, 80 1857 Henry Robinson, 80 " Chas. W. Baird, 80 " W. Hammel, 80 " 2 Charles Caples, 160 1836 Otis M. Wood, 40 " Charles Butler, 120 " David Edger, 161 1837 Hugh Thompson and H. Walker, 161 " 3 Charles Butler, 160 1836 Dan. Wyman, 160 " Ferdianand Haskin, 158 " 3 William Crooks, 160 1839 4 Lewis Culver, 119 1836 Amos Work, 120 1837 John Rusher, 118 1859 F. E. Shankland, 78 " John Hous, 80 " W. L. Helfenstine, 40 " Reuben Frisbie, 78 1851 5 Eli Uhle, 77 1838 . Abram Griffith, 120 1836 William Miller, 80 " Jonathan Clendening, 77 " Lewis J. Miller, 77 " Eli Uhle, 39 1838 5 Eli Adams, 80 1838 W. L. Helfenstine, 40 1840 P. M. Dix, 39 1841 6 Nancy Bronson, 80 1836 August Bronson, 40 " Jonathan Clendening, 76 " George Miller, 96 " Joseph Miller, 96 " Stephen Wilkins, 352 1837 7 George Hathaway, 40 1836 Geo. Bany, 80 1837 D. L. McMannis, 40 " Newell Stiles, 40 " Nancy Barry, 48 " Milton J. Ross, 100 " Mary L. Ross, 100 " Henry Zimmerman, 48 1838 Jesse Smith, 48 1840 John Smith, 168 " 8 Abraham Griffith, 40 1836 James T. Maddox, 80 " Samuel Chesier, 160 " John Tumbleson, 160 1837 John Uhle, 120 1838 William J. Thomas, 40 1839 John Shaw, 40 1852 9 John Hathaway, 40 1836 James J. Maddox, 160 “ P. M. Dix, 80 " Charles Butler, 160 " George Snyder, 160 " William Ammon, 40 1838 10 Abraham Griffith, 80 1834 Joseph Barnett, 80 1835 Charles Meldon, 80 1856 John Hathaway, 40 " Charles Maddox, 40 " William Moore, 160 " Charles Butler, 160 " 11 George Marsh, 320 1834 Samuel W. Parmley, 200 1836 William Versey, 40 " Charles Butler, 80 " 12 George Marsh, 120 1834 Joseph Wilson, 80 " Simon Perkins, 80 1835 P. M. Dix, 40 1836 Davis & Burt, 80 1852 William Glenn, 80 “ Warner Stripe, 40 " J. C. Parkerson, 40 " William Stripe, 80 1851 13 Riley, Marsh & Aughenbaugh, 240 1834 Joseph Griffith, 80 " Reuben Frisbie, 80 1851 C. P. Edson, 80 " Robert Gilliland, 80 1852 George Marsh, 40 1851 John Shaw, 40 " 14 George Marsh, 120 1834 Samuel S. Craft, 480 1836 W. S. Helfenstine, 40 1840 15 Joseph Barrett, 80 1835 Samuel S. Croft, 480 1836 John Lantz, 80 " 16 H. C. McGavren, 80 .1833 A. McGavren, 80 " Samuel Miller, 80 " P. O. & P. Ryan, 80 1833 Jonathan Tumbleson, 160 “ Zeph. Hartman, 80 " 17 James Henderson, 160 1835 Adam Troup, 160 " R. & Geo. McCoy; 160 " Ephraim Sniver, 120 1838 Joseph Uhle, 40 " 18 Henry Zimmerman, Sr., 192 1836 Thomas M. Thompson, 160 " Charles H. Williams, 80 1837 Josiah DeLong, 40 " David Balyeat, 192 " James S. Shrieves, 40 1838 19 Lucinda McCoy, 160 1836 John McCoy, 194 " C. Vananda, 160 " John J. Goodbread, 194 1837 20 Evan Weaver, 80 1836 Herman Henderson, 160 " William Davis, 240 " James H. Eaton, 160 1837 21 Daniel Cook, 320 1856 John McCoy, 80 " Elisha Wells, 240 " 22 Charles Butler, 160 1836 L. B. Garley, 80 " Matthew Makin, 160 " John Montgomery, 160 " John McCoy, 80 " 23 John Uncopher, 480 1836 Charles Butler, 160 " 24 Robert Conn, 80 1852 Johnson & Conn, 80 " John Shaw, 80 " O. W. Ross, 80 " Davis & Burt, 240 " 25 Samuel P. Hedges, 80 1836 George Dustman, 160 " Henry Myers, 160 " John Uncopher, 160 " S. W. Parmley, 80 " 26 Charles Butler, 160 1836 James Lindsey, 120 " Joseph Saint, 160 " Joseph Harbert, 160 " James Sims, Jr., 40 1838 27 Henry Boston, 320 1836 Hugh Thompson, 320 " 28 Andrew Smith, 160 1836 David W. Green, 160 " John Thompson, 160 " Margaret Thompson, 160 " 29 Andrew Smith, 80 1836 Hugh Thompson, Jr., 160 " Sarah Thompson, 160 “ Alex. Work, 200 " James H. Eaton, 40 " 30 Adam Conrad, 353 1836 William Thompson, 160 " Jonas Balyeat, 193 1837 31 Jonas Balyeat, 48 1837 Joseph Gleason, 208 " Alex. Work, 40 “ Abigail Gleason, 80 " Joseph Gleason, 292 1838 William Watson, 40 32 Joseph Thompson, 160 1836 Robert Thompson, 160 " Uriah & A. Drumb, 80 “ Levi Drumb, 80 “ May Gleason, 80 1838 Benj. Harmley, 80 1841 33 James Clendening, 80 1836 S. P. Hedges, 80 " John Montgomery, 160 " Levi Saint, 320 " 34 James Montgomery, 160 1836 William Thorn, 80 " 'Thomas Thorn, 120 " Benj. Thorn, 80 ‘ James Sims, 120 1838 Thomas Jacob, 40 1839 Peter Stump, 40 1851 35 David Fluelscher, 160 1836 Charles Baker, 160 " Arch. McCoy, 160 " Joseph Saint, 160 " 36 Daniel Hipshire, 80 1836 Aaron Hipshire, 40 " John Gossard, 80 " Joshua Gossard, 40 " Archibald Cooper, 160 " William Agaid, 80 " Aaron Hipshire, 40 " Benj. Harnley, 80 Levi Miller, 40 1839 Record of Marks and Brands for Pleasant Township, Van Wert County, Ohio. Asa Cook came forward on the 2d day of August, 1837, and made return of his mark for cattle, sheep, and hogs, to be recorded, which is as follows: A crop off the right ear. Daniel Cook, Township Clerk. A. Brubaker, two slits in the right ear. Joseph Brodnix, a square crop off each ear, and the end of the tail cut off. 194 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Aaron A. Brunson, a crop off the left ear, and a bit of the under sides of the right. Jonathan Balyeat, a slit in the right ear, and on under side of left: Ethan E. Bogne, two slits in the right ear, and a square crop of the same. John P. Beady, a crop off the left ear, and a slit and under bit in the right ear. D. Cook, a crop off the right ear, and a slit in the same.  Samuel M. Clark, a slit in left ear. John W. Clark, a slit in left ear. Wm. A. Clark, a slit on the under side of left ear. Joseph Clark, a crop and a half crop off on right ear. George Cress, a square crop off. the right ear, and a half crop. off the under side of left. George S. Crafts, a crop off the right ear, and a slit in each ear. Joseph Collins, a slit in each ear. Richard Cayton, a half crop off the upper side of the right ear, and a half crop off the upper side of the left ear. Win. Davis, a swallow fork in the right ear, and a half crop off the under side of left. Peres M. Dix, a crop off the left, and hole in right ear. Samuel S. Farnan, a slit in right ear. Soloman Farnan, a slit in right ear: Samuel Engleright, a swallow fork in the left ear, and a hole in the same. Enoch S. Edson, two under bits out of the left ear. Henry Foster, a swallow fork in the right ear, and a slit in under left. ear. Daniel Fisher, a crop off the left ear, and slit in same. L. F. Fletcher, a swallow fork in right ear, and a hole in left. Benjamin Fisher, the under bit out of each ear. Daniel Fisher, two slits in each ear. Benjamin Gleason, a standing crop off the upper side of the left ear. E. Griffith, two slits and a hole in the left ear. Daniel Hipshire, two slits in each ear. Harry Hipshire, a crop off the right ear, and two slits in left. Josiah Hattery, a crop off each ear, and slit in the right. Jacob Johns, a crop of the right ear, and swallow fork in the left ear.. E. W. Jones, a swallow fork in right ear. Wm. Johns, a square crop off the right ear. Thomas R. Bear, a square crop off the left ear, and straight crop off the under side of the right. Wm. H. Kyle, an under bit out of left ear. Jonathan Lewis, a crop off the right ear, and a slit in the same. Wm. Moneysmith, a small fork in the end of each ear. James Maddox, a slit in each ear. WM. Miller, a crop. off the right ear, and a slit in the left. Thomas J. Mitchell, a crop of each ear, and two slits in the right, and one in the left. Smith Miller, a half crop off the under side of each ear.  Sarah E. Morehead, the upper slope off each ear. Thomas S. McKim, a crop off and slit in the right ear, and a hole in the left ear. Joseph North, a slit in the right ear. Wm. Parent, a slit in the left ear. J. C. Parkinson, two slits in the left ear. Caleb Roberts, two under bits out of right ear. John C. Richey, a crop off the left ear, and slit in the left. John Roach, four under bits in each ear. Richison Rodgers, a crop off each ear, and a slit in each ear. Levi Sawyer, a crop off the right ear. Jesse Smith, a hole in the right ear, and two bits out of the left ear. John Smith, a square crop off the left and a swallow fork in right ear. Joseph Stewart, a swallow fork in each ear. Thomas Thorn, a crop and slit in left, and swallow fork in right ear. Wm. Thorn, a crop and slit in the right and a hole in left ear. Eli Taylor, a crop off each ear, and an under bit out of the right. Thomas Uncopher, a square crop off the left ear, and a hole in each ear. Lyman S. Wells, a crop off the left, and hole and slit in the right ear. Bernard B. Woodcock, a crop off each ear, and a hole in each ear. Lyman J. Webber, a swallow fork in the end of each ear. Matson Warren, a square crop off the right ear, and an upper bit off the same. E. R. Wells, a square crop off the left ear, and swallow fork in right, John S. Young, a crop off each ear, and two swallows in each. OFFICERS AND OFFICIAL BUSINESS. First Election. This election was held June 20, 1837, under the order of the commis, sioners, at the house of James Maddox. At this election- the following named officers were elected: Trustees-John F. Dodds, Lyman S. Wells, and Stephen Gleason. Clerk-Daniel Cook. May 22, 1838—" At a meeting of the Trustees of Pleasant Township, Van Wert County, Ohio, held at Van Wert May 22, 1838, for the purpose of laying off said tOwnship into school districts, it was agreed that Pleasant Township shall be divided into four districts." Here follows a description of the several districts as established, and which may be briefly described by saying district No. 1, occupied the northeast quarter of the township; No. 2, the northwest quarter; No. 3, the southwest quarter, and No. 4, the southeast quarter. Signed—Jno.F. Doods, Lyman S. Wells, Stephen Gleason, Trustees. March 4, 1839, the township was divided into four road districts; the trustees' meeting at the house of Lyman S. Wells. Daniel Cook, Clerk. March 4, 1840, Trustees met at house of Wm. Wells. Present, Ly. man S. Wells, Win. Parent, and Stephen Gleason. S. M. Clark, Clerk. Election held April 6, 1840, officers elect: Trustees, Lyman S. Wells, Samuel M. Clark, James F. Maddox; Clerk, Thomas R. Mott; Treasurer, Robert Gilliland; Overseers of Poor, M. Clark, Daniel Cook; Fence Viewers, E. R. Wells, J. Q. Greaves, Thomas Thorn ; Supervisors: District No. 1, Robert Gilliland; District No. 2, Wm. Miller; District, No. 3, J. H. Eaton; District No. 4, Benjamin Thorn. Oct. 20, 1840: Joseph Gleason and Thomas Thorn were commissioned Justices of the Peace. Enumeration "of all youths between the ages of 4 and 20, unmarried, taken between the 1st and 20th of Oct. 1840."