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of that section. Absalom A. Miller was thus reared amidst pioneer surroundings, and few know better than he, the courage, patience and effort required to endure the many hardships of early days. He attended the subscription schools in his boyhood, where the teaching was thorough if not very extended. Mr. Miller can still recall the log-cabin school in which he gained the greater part of his early knowledge of books. From childhood he was taught to work, and by the time he was 25 years of age and had left his native county, he was a thorough and practical farmer. For a number of years he lived in Allen County, and from that county enlisted for service in the Civil war, entering Company H, 179th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. He participated in the battle and siege of Nashville and served under General Thomas for one year, being honorably discharged on account of the closing of the war.

On September 7, 1853, Mr. Miller was married to Rachel A. Carmean, who was born in Ohio, February 3, 1833, a daughter of William and Margaret (Miller) Carmean, the former of whom was a native of Maryland and the latter of Ohio. They were early settlers in Ross County. The father was drowned in the Auglaize River when Mrs. Miller was a small girl. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have had 10 children, of whom three are now living: Sarah C., a music teacher, living at home; Alvira E., wife of Joseph Shaw, of Grover Hill; and Annie L., wife of R. A. Oakley, of Jackson township.

In the fall of 1874 Mr. Miller removed with his family from Allen to Van Wert County and settled on the farm where he now lives. Again pioneer conditions prevailed more or less, and both he and wife experienced many hardships in the early days which have long since passed away. For a number of years he served asschool director of District No. 3, and for nine years was a trustee of Jackson township. A portion of this time he was president of the board. Politically Mr. Miller is a Democrat. Both he and his wife are valued members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They are widely known, and they have a large circle of devoted friends. Their hospitable home is frequently the scene of social gatherings.

JACOB KISER, an estimable resident of Liberty township, has lived for the last 24 years on his finely improved farm of 80 acres, situated in section 11. He was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 21, 1837, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Harshman) Kiser.

Jacob Kiser, Sr., was born and raised in Pennsylvania and later moved to Wayne County, Ohio. He came to Van Wert County in 1852, and bought 160 acres of land in Liberty township, where he lived until the time of his death. Mrs. Kiser, who was the mother of nine children, is also deceased.

Jacob Kiser, subject of this sketch, was 15 years of age at the time of his father's removal to Van Wert County. He was reared on the home farm and assisted his father in clearing the farm of its heavy growth of timber. When 26 years of age he married Annie Flager a daughter of Adam Flager, who was one of the pioneer settlers of this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Kiser have been born five children namely: Margaret, wife of Benjamin Hoffman, who is at present mayor of Ohio City; John, who is single and lives at home; Simon, of Ohio City, who is a member of the firm of Goodman & Kiser, conducting a livery and feed stable ; Hannah, who married L. J.

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Schidt, of Liberty township and has three children—Esther, Laymo and Edith ; Emma, who married Jacob Swoveland, of Ohio City, and died March 9, 1906, leaving three children—Hugh, Madge and Dale ; and Myrtle, who lives at home.

In 1864 Mr. Kiser entered Company G, 17th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and served until the close of the war. He has lived on his present farm, which is a part of the old Flager farm, since 1882. In 1903 the frame house which the family now occupies was built, the house built in 1885 having burned down. The barn which is a fine red building was erected in .1894. Mr. Kiser is a member of the Grand Army of Republic and has served as school director and supervisor of Liberty township.

LEVI ELLIS FAWCETT, a representative farmer of Washington township, the owner of a fine farm of 80 acres in section 29, was born in Greene County, Ohio, April 3, 1833, and is a son of Robert and Mary (Pickering) Fawcett, and a grandson of John Fawcett. The Fawcetts are among the pioneer families of Virginia and originated in England. John Fawcett, the grandfather, was born and raised in the Old Dominion, where his entire life was devoted to agricultural pursuits.

Robert Fawcett, the father, was also a native of Virginia, in mature years first migrating to Belmont County, Ohio, and later to Greene County, where he owned a farm of 190 acres. This he operated until the time of his death in 1872; his wife had died in 1858. They were the parents of 10 children.

Levi Fawcett was reared on his father's farm in Greene County, was educated in the schools of that vicinity, and married on November 6, 1856, to Ellen Burr, a daughter of David and Louisa (Oxley) Burr. Mr. Burr was born and raised in Green County, and was a son of Peter Burr. Mrs. Fawcett's mother was a Virginian, and came to Ohio when six years of age. For two years after his marriage Mr. Fawcett lived with his father-in-law, then made his home for 14 years with his father on the home place. In 1873, after the death of his father, he leased the farm and moved to Van Wert County, where he bought a farm of 80 acres in Washington township—this being still his home, although he leases the land.

Mr. and Mrs. Fawcett have had 13 children : Emma Jane, who married Samuel Baer and died, leaving two children; Albert, who married Mary Summersett and has three children; Mary Louisa, who married Reuben Summersett, resides in Ridge township and has four children ; John, who married Mattie Conroy and has four children; David, who married Lillie Hamilton, and has four children; Robert who married Maggie Rarick, and has four children ; William, who married Anna Ferguson and has two children; Alma, the deceased wife of John Parlett, who left two children; Lulu, who married Sherman Davis and has one child ; Elva, married to George Clark, who is the mother of three children ; Frank, a resident of Van Wert; Nellie, who married Thomas Lynch, lives in Pennsylvania and has one child; and Charles Oscar, who died in infancy.

Politically, Mr. Fawcett has been a Prohibitionist for several years. He was some years Igo elected supervisor of Washington township, on the Republican ticket, and 'served one term. In his religious relations he is an over-seer of the Friends' Church of Middlepoint, both he and his wife being members of that denomination.

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ADAM FAUBLE, the owner of a finely improved farm of 100 acres in sec-

tions 27 and 28, Liberty township, is one of the well-known and progressive farmers of the township. He was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, September 20, 1854, and is a son of Christopher and Catherine (Martin) Fauble.

Christopher Fauble was born in Germany, and there was reared and educated. He was married to Catherine Martin and when 35 years of age emigrated to America. He settled in Fairfield County, Ohio, and later moved to Hocking County, where he purchased a farm of 200 acres. Here he lived until the time of his death, after which his wife moved back to Fairfield County and lived with her daughter during the remainder of her life.

Adam Fauble was reared on his father's farm and attended the district schools in Hocking County. He lived for a number of years in that county where he owned a farm of 160 acres. He disposed of this land in 1888, moved to Van Wert County and bought his present farm of 100 acres, of which 80 acres are situated in section 28 and the remaining 20 in section 27. In 1903 he added to the many other improvements already made by erecting a fine large barn on the farm.

Adam Fauble was married first to Lizzie Walborn, who died in Van Wert County iii 1899. They had six children : Edward, Clarence, Daniel, Charles, Florence and Edna. Edward, the eldest, died of typhoid fever August 20, 1905, aged 22 years.

In December, 1899, Adam Fauble was married to Mrs. Lizzie Stahl, a daughter of Charles Chilcote. She was the widow of Werley Stahl, by whom she had three children : Lula, Walter and Lloyd. She had been previously married to David Saum and had by that marriage five children, as follows : Emma, who married Charles Feasel, has four children, John, Noah, Heber and Dorl, and lives near Monroe, Indiana; Eva, who married Daniel Baumgartner, has three children Alma, Hoyt and Carl, and lives in Willshire; Bertha, who married John Demler, of Ohio City, has one child, Fay—she was the widow of Amos Avery by whom she had one child, Arabella; Charles, who lives at Willshire; and Leah, who married Frank Garwood and has one child, Eva. Mr. Fauble is a member of the Lutheran Church.

SAMUEL B. HARVEY, residing in section 11, Hoaglin township, is a native of Richland County, where he was born February 8, 1838. His parents were Zepheniah and Sarah (Stoner) Harvey. His father, who was a native of Maryland, died about 1843.

Samuel B. Harvey remained in Richland County with his mother until he had reached his majority, when he started out to do for himself. He came to Van Wert County in the spring of 1859, and located in Hoaglin township, which has been his home ever since. In 1866 he purchased his present 80-acre farm, which he has put under excellent cultivation.

On March 19, 1864, Mr.. Harvey was married to Martha C. Karr, who was born in Union County, Indiana, August 29, 1840. Her parents were Frederick and Elizabeth (Washburn) Karr, who moved to Preble County, Ohio, when she was a child. When she was about 18 they moved to Paulding County where they died. To Mr., and Mrs. Harvey were born five children, namely: Mary E., wife of Albert Eller; Lydia C., wife of N. F. Hattery; Minerva J., wife of Willis Black, of Union township; Henry A. ; and Samuel E., all of whom live in Hoaglin township except

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Minerva J. Mr. Harvey has a brother, John W., who lives in Van Wert. Samuel B. Harvey is known as a public spirited, upright and honorable man. For many years he was trustee of his township and served as president of the board.

DAVID W. EVANS, justice of the peace at Venedocia, has long been one of the leading citizens of York township and for years has been closely identified with all its important interests. He was born in Wales, in 1838, and is a son of William and Jane Evans.

The parents of David W. Evans came to the United States in 1839 and settled on a farm near Oak Hill, Jackson County, Ohio, William Evans, the father, being a man of thrift and ability. He accumulated 600 acres of land, only a small part of which he cultivated, as he was also interested in the industrial enterprises of his locality, and, in the course of time, became manager of the Cambria furnace. It was while he was superintending some building operations at this plant that he accidentally met his death, August 16, 1854. William Evans was survived by his widow and these children : David W.; Thomas, who died aged 27 years ; Jane, who is the widow of David E. Evans ; John W., a merchant in Van Wert County; William W., a farmer in Jennings township, Van Wert County; and Annie; who died in childhood. At a later date Mrs. Evans married Isaac T. Jones.

The large property left by William Evans, at the time of his death, remained intact until 1859, when, at the instance of David W., the eldest son, a division was made. The land was all situated in York township and David W. Evans' portion was 106 acres. To this acreage he has continued to add by purchase until he now owns 335 acres, partly located in section 18, Jennings township, and partly in section 13, York township, the latter being the home farm. Mr. Evans settled here in 1861, the year of his marriage. In 1873 he built the handsome and comfortable brick residence, which is situated just west of the Welsh Presbyterian Church. Nothing has been omitted to make. these farms productive and valuable, their owner having spent a large amount of capital in tiling and in the erection of good, substantial buildings. Although oil was discovered on his land as early as 1896, no special attempts were made to develop it until 1900, when experiments showed that wells could be profitably sunk am3 that in their output Mr. Evans possessed a source of large income. At present there are 19 wells flowing freely, the average depth being from 1,230 to 1,260 feet.

In 1861Mr. Evans was married to Jane Bebb, who was a daughter of the late William and Margaret Bebb, and eight children were born to them, as follows : William B., a liveryman and farmer, residing at Venedocia; Margaret, who resides at Columbus, the widow of Elmer R. Owen, formerly of Newark, Ohio; Thomas Charles and John Elias (twins), the former deceased and the latter, a practicing dental surgeon at Lima, Ohio; Laura Ann; Martha, who died in infancy; David, who is the manager of his father's farms ; and Mary, deceased. Thomas Charles, who was drowned June 17, 1890, while boating on the Blanchard River, near Findlay, Ohio, was, like his twin brother, highly gifted as a musician. The mother of the above named family died February to, 1887, leaving a sorrowing family and a large circle of friends. She was a lady of many virtues, an active worker in the Calvinistic Methodist Church at Venedocia, and beloved for her unvarying kindness to all who came within the circle of her influence.

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Mr. Evans can remember when Venedocia was represented by a single house, and when his, present valuable farms were covered with woods. Some of the woodland he cleared off himself, but a large part he hired cleared, as he has had many other interests, a number of them being of a public character. For several years he taught school, and from this source accumulated considerable capital which he invested in land. It is almost impossible to mention any reputable public movement in York township in which he has not been concerned, his interests having been hound up with the development of this section for the past 45 years. In many instances his public spirit has brought him much vexation and loss of time and money, before the majority of his fellow-citizens could be brought to see what was for the common good. He was mainly instrumental in bringing the "Clover Leaf" Railroad to Venedocia, and in this enterprise was associated with the late Morgan H. Morgan. By the time the right of way was secured from Delphos through Venedocia he had expended large sums, while the substantial benefits of the new transportation line were enjoyed by all.

Mr. Evans has always believed that good roads, schools and churches were the best developers of a district, and he has been consistent in advocating all of these agencies. For 24 years he was a school director, serving frequently as president of the School Board and also as school trustee. For about 22 years he has served as justice of the peace, and has had more to do with the peaceable adjustment of business and family difficulties than any other individual in this section. So satisfactory have been his successive years of administration in this capacity that in the fall of 1905 he was again reelected for a term of three years. Mr. Evans has been no less prominent in religious affairs, having for over 40 years been secretary of the Welsh Presbyterian Church at Venedocia and one of the elders almost since the time of his settlement here. He has also been particularly interested in the Sunday-school, having served as superintendent a great many years and always been a teacher of one of its classes. In marked degree, therefore, Mr. Evans enjoys the esteem and confidence of his fellow-citizens. He has always been ready to assist the worthy, has been a liberal supporter of many benevolent enterprises, and is a remarkably strong factor in the material progress and the religious and moral elevation of the community. His portrait accompanies this sketch.

JOSEPH M. KREIDER, a prominent citizen and representative farmer of Pleasant township, residing on his well-improved farm of 79 acres, situated in section 28, was born in 1851 in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, coming first to Richland County, Ohio, and then to Van Wert County. He is a son of John R. and Sarah (Hersh) Kreider, both born in Pennsylvania and both members of old and prominent families in Lancaster County. In 1864 John R. Kreider removed from Richland to Van Wert County, settling in sectiOn 27, Pleasant township, where he died in 1880. His wife, highly esteemed for her womanly virtues and strong character, survives and continues to reside on the old farm. Her husband was a Republican, and at one time a member and liberal supporter of the Pleasant Grove Methodist Episcopal Church.

The surviving children of John R. Kreider and wife were : Joseph M., Naomi, wife of J. M. Baker, of Pleasant township; Jeremiah R., of the same township; Mary, wife of John Gearhizer, residing near Marion, Ohio; John

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F., of Liberty township; Howard V., of Pleasant township; F. P., a doctor of Van Wert; and Clara, wife of Harry Hoghe, of Liberty township. Elias and Henry are deceased.

Joseph M. Kreider, the eldest of the family was 13 years of age when he accompanied his parents to Van Wert County, where he completed his education in the public schools. His training and interests have all been in an agricultural direction and he has proven himself one of the township's most successful farmers. Politically a Republican, his party has elected him to township offices on numerous occasions. He has served two terms (six years) as township trustee, during a portion of that period being president of the board; is a stanch friend of the public schools, and at present is a member of the School Board of Pleasant township.

In 1874 Mr. Kreider was married to Mary M. Henderson, who was born in Van Wert County, and is a daughter of the late John Henderson. They have three children, viz: Hattie A., wife of Charles Hermann, of Mercer County, Ohio; Bertha G., wife of Delmer Dietrich, of Mercer County, and Harry M. Mr. Kreider is a member of the Society of Friends, attending religious services at Antioch. He is a man of standing in his neighborhood, respected in public life and esteemed in private.

GEORGE W. McGAVREN, M. D., one of the leading professional men of Van Wert, who has distinguished himself in the field of medicine and surgery, belongs to one of the pioneer families of the State. Dr. McGavren was born in Wyandot County, Ohio, January 20, 1851, and is a son of Dr. Hugh C. and Margaret J. (Lenderman) McGavren.

The father of Dr. McGavren, for manyyears an honored man and beloved physician, was born in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, July 30, 1825, and died at Van Wert, Ohio, February 27 189 1. He was a child of four years when his parents moved to Columbiana County, Ohio, and was 10 years old when they settled permanently in the wilderness of Hardin County. He himself located in Wyandot County, Ohio, in 1847, and in 1853 the parents moved to Iowa where they both died—the father, aged 87 years, and the mother, at 83 years of age. In 1853, at Van Wert, Ohio, Hugh C. McGavren commenced the study of medicine, a profession for which the members of this family are obviously well adapted, the name being represented in this line of professional activity in greater numbers than any other in the State. In 1856 Dr. McGavren settled for practice at Rockford, Mercer County, removing in 1867 to Van Wert, where the remainder of his life was spent. He was one of the pioneer physicians here, one whose self-sacrificing labors and remarkable skill form an important chapter in the medical annals of the county. In 1847 he married Margaret J. Lenderman, who was born at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and they had five children, the survivors being : Mary C., wife of Dr. Holbrook, of Defiance, Ohio ; George W., of Van Vert; and Olive, wife of W. G. Streit, of Van Wert.

With so distinguished a father in the field of medicine, it is not surprising that early in life our subject turned his attention and directed his studies toward this profession. He was graduated, in 1873, at the Eclectic Medical Institute, Cincinnati, and in 1877 took a post-graduate course at the Fort Wayne Medical College, which was followed in 1884-85, by a special post-graduate course at the New York Polyclinic. After his return from Cincinnati, in association with his father. Dr. Mc-

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Gavren entered upon the practice of his profession, in Van Wert, where he has continued until the present, each year of practice adding to his prestige and prosperity. His remarkable skill in combating disease and relieving suffering has made his personality a comforting influence throughout the county, while his name is professionally honored, by his brethren of all medical schools. He has always been prominent in civic life, in the way of advancing sanitary and hygenic measures and in promoting good government, but he has consented to fill no strictly political office, although he is a stanch Republican.

In 1875 Dr. McGavren was married, first, to Florence W. Baker, who died within that year. His second marriage, April 19, 1877, was to Emma G. McKim, and they have one daughter—Nellie W. The family have a beautiful home, on the corner of Jefferson and Sycamore streets, where a generous hospitality is dispensed. Dr. McGavren's office comprises four well-appointed rooms in the McKim Block, situated in the business part of the city. He is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Van Wert Lodge, No. 218, F. & A. M., Van Wert Chapter, No. 71, R. A. M.; Ivanhoe Commandery, No. 30, K. T., of Van Wert ; Ohio Sovereign Consistory and Mystic Shrine, being a 32nd degree Mason. He is also a member of the Elks and the Knights of Pythias.

WILLIAM H. HIGH, justice of the peace of Liberty township, and owner of 280 acres of valuable farm land in sections 26 and 27, was born in Liberty township, February 25, 1867, and is a son of John and Mary Ann (Siniff) High, and grandson of John High, Sr., who was a native of Germany.

John High, the father of our subject, was born in Cincinnati. In 1855, after the death of John High, Sr., his widow came to Delphos with her son, then about three years of age. He made his home with an uncle, Henry Sprain, until he was about 15 years of age, when he went to Liberty township and lived with his mother. He was married in Mercer County to Mary Ann Siniff, daughter of John and Nancy Ann Siniff, and became the father of four children : William H. ; Oscar, of Upland, Indiana; Dorothy E. (Profit), who died in 1901 ; and Christopher, who lives on the old homestead in Liberty township.

William H. High was reared and educated in his native township, and on June 29, 1890, was married to Viola May Ries, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Ries of York township. They have had seven children : Edith Wilma; Grace Elma; Daniel Albert; Hattie Annetta, Elizabeth Pearl; Wilbur Glen and Doyt Blain. After his marriage, Mr. High moved with his bride to York township and located on his farm of 42 acres, where they lived for seven years. He then traded that farm for the 80-acre farm, where he now lives, paying the difference in value. He did not move upon the farm, however, until three years later, which brings us down to 1900. In 1901 he added 40 acres to his original purchase, and in the fall of the same year bought another 40 acres ; in the spring of 1902 he added 80 acres more and the next spring he purchased still another 40 acres, making a total of 280 acres, of which 200 are situated in section 27. He has 10 oil-wells on his farm, nine of which are operated by the Liberty Oil Company, of which Mr. High is a director and president. The other well is also leased. In 1903 and 1904 he erected the largest and most complete barn in the county. It has a cement floor, and is 34 by 120 and 34 by 60 feet.

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Mr. High leases the farm land, and is practically living in retirement. It is his intention to devote his entire time from now on to buying, feeding and shipping stock. His sales are considered the events of the year in his community.

Mr. High is a Republican, and was elected justice of the peace in 1900 on the Republican ticket. His reelection in 1904 is an evidence of the esteem in which he is held. He is a director of the Farmers' Bank of Ohio City. He is a trustee and member of the Walnut Grove Methodist Episcopal Church and is superintendent of the Sunday-school. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of the Maccabees.

RICHARD E. SMITH, whose valuable farm is situated in section 32, Willshire township, is not only a good farmer, but he can justifiably lay claim to being a successful inventor. Mr. Smith was born on a farm within a mile and a half of Elida, Allen County, Ohio, on November 4, 1864, and is a son of William and Barbara (Conrod) (Bumgardner) Smith.

Martin Smith, the grandfather of our subject, owned at the time of death about 300 acres of land, and William Smith, his father, owned 500 acres in Allen and Van Wert counties. The latter was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, and removed to Allen County in 1840, immediately after his marriage. He died just prior to the birth of our subject, from worry and excitement brought on, first by the death of his brother Jacob, who was accidentally killed, and the subsequent death of his father, all three dying within a period of two weeks. William Smith married Mrs. Barbara (Conrod) Bumgardner, who now resides on the old homestead near Elida, in the 81st year of herage. On both sides Mr. Smith comes of families noted for their longevity, his maternal grandfather living to be 87 years old and his grandmother to be 94.

The children of William Smith and wife, 11 in number, all survive, as follows : Isabella (Reed), of Auglaize County; Martin; Taylor, who lives on the old homestead in Allen County; Harrison, of Lima; Jacob, living near Lima; George, living near Bluffton; William, living near Lima; Ellen (Bumgardner), of Elida; Mary (Keller), of Muskegon, Michigan ; Sarah (Shook), of Muncie, Indiana ; and Richard E.

Richard E. Smith remained on the home farm until his majority, and was educated in the local schools. He then went to Lima and three years worked by the day, moving then to St. Marys, where he went to work in the oil field. For about six years Mr. Smith remained at St. Marys, and then sold his place there and purchased 20 acres in Amanda township, Allen County, on which he lived until he came to his present farm four years ago. He has done all the developing here, the farm in 1902 being entirely unimproved. He has erected a comfortable dwelling and all necessary farm buildings, and carries on a general line of agriculture.

Mr. Smith belongs to a family of natural mechanical genius and he has put his talent to practical account. While working in the oil field at St. Marys, he conceived the idea of a repair apparatus for surface-oil pump-rods which he had patented May 29, 1900. Its great utility was recognized and he sold the invention to the St. Marys Drilling Company, and it is now in use in all local fields. Mr. Smith is now working on other inventions.

In 1890 Mr. Smith was married to Elizabeth Alexander, who was born at Allentown, and died May 30, 1905, aged 37 years and 10

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days. She was a: daughter of James and Lydia Alexander. Mr. and Mrs. Smith had five children, namely : Terry P., Violet Chloe, Lelia, Belva and Berlin.

Politically Mr. Smith is a Republican. He is a member of the United Brethren Church.

GEORGE W. NEWTON who is prominent both in business and political life in Van Wert, mayor of the city and owner of the most extensive musical instrument business in the county, is a on of Gusta A. and Polly Ann (Baldwin) Newton, and was born March 30, 1851, in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. The grandparents of Mayor Newton were old residents of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, his maternal great-grandfather, William Carns, having been the first sheriff of Lawrence and Beaver counties before they were divided. Thomas Lukens, his great-great-grandfather, was the first Surveyor General of Pennsylvania. Mr. Newton's father was a farmer in Lawrence County all his life and reared a family of to children.

George W. Newton was reared and educated in his native locality. In 1886 he came to Van Wert County, and embarked in the musical instrument line, being for a time a member of The Anderson-Newton Piano Company, manufacturers of pianos. Subsequently he withdrew from that connection, but has continued in the sale of musical publications and instruments. He has connections with musical organizations throughout the county and supplies the demand for all kinds of instruments on the market, carrying an average stock valued at $5,000. In addition to his mercantile interests he is a large property owner, both in the city and county.

Mr. Newton's wife before marriage was Ida Webster, who is a daughter of A. W. Webster, a prominent resident of Van Wert. They have two children—Fred A. and Miles E. Their beautiful home is located at No. 215 North Vine street, Van Wert, and the family is actively identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church.

For a number of years Mr. Newton has been an active public man and a masterful force in the politics of his section, having been long identified with the management of Republican affairs in Van Wert County. He has been frequently honored by his party. In 1903 he was elected mayor of the city by a .flattering majority, and his public career was marked by the same sound judgment and unquestioned integrity, which has already brought him honor as a business man.

JOSEPH M. ROLLER, who resides on his well-improved farm in section to, Liberty township, was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, November 27, 1851, and is a son of John and Susanna (Fox) Roller.

John Roller was born in Greenford township, Mahoning County, Ohio, where he became a prominent farmer. His grandfather came with a brother to this country from Germany and settled in Mahoning County, where they were among the first settlers. John Roller, father of Joseph Roller, was reared in his native county, and there was married to Susanna Fox. They had nine children, five of whom are living. The record is as follows : Martha (Rice), now deceased ; Albert J., and Allen (twins)—the latter died aged 26 years and Albert J. lives in Jennings township; Urban, deceased at the age of 35 ; Joseph M., our subject; Mary Jane (Wentz), who lives in

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Bert Klinger, of Haviland, Paulding County, and has two children—Ruby and Carmen; Allen T., born January 3, 1881, who died September 18, 1882; Olive, who married Forest Williams, of Ohio City, and has one child—Cloyd ; Clyde who lives at home; Emmett, who attends high school at Ohio City; Glen; Guy; and Alena.

Mr. Roller lived for several years after his marriage in York township, and one summer in Ridge township. In 1893 he bought 40 acres in Liberty township, but did not move upon the place until 1896. He built his present house in 1899, and the barn was erected in 1897. He has been a member of the School Board, and was at one time candidate for county surveyor on the .Democratic ticket, but was defeated. He is one of the leading members of the Methodist Church and has several times been superintendent of the Sunday-school. He is the recording stewart of the circuit, find local steward of the church. He belongs to the Knights of the Maccabees.

WILLIAM THOMPSON EXLINE, now retired and residing on his large estate of over 452 acres of land, his home being in section 17,Liberty township, is one of the representative men of this locality and one who has had much practical experience in the development of that great source of wealth—the oil fields in the vicinity of Ohio City. He was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, September 22, 1837, and is a son of Rev. Valentine and Evaline (Thompson) Exline.

The Exline family is of Swiss extraction, and the name can be traced centuries back to the period when the Protestant Swiss were persecuted on account of their religious opinions.

Jennings township ; John who lives in Michigan; Wilson, who lives in York township, and Harriet, who died in 1870 at the age of five. John Roller moved from Columbiana County to Van Wert County, in September, 1865, and settled in York township, where he bought a farm of 60 acres. This was situated on the county line between Van Wert and Mercer counties, 20 acres being in Mercer County. He only lived 11 months after moving to Van Wert County, his death occurring in 1866. His widow is still living in Jennings township.

Joseph M. Roller received his primary schooling in Mahoning County, and was 14 years old when his father removed to Van Wert County. He attended school one winter after locating in Van Wert County. Later he took a course at the Ohio Normal University at Ada and also attended a private school for two seasons in his own district. He afterward taught school in Van Wert County for seven winters, and one winter in Mercer County. On September 20, 1877, he was married to Flora Black, a daughter of William and Margaret (Like) Black.

William Black was a native of Perry County, Ohio, where he was reared, educated and married. He enlisted as a private in the 162nd Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., later became a corporal and was discharged at the close of the war as a sergeant. His family had in the meantime moved to Paulding County, where he joined them at the close of the war. He remained there 11 years, and in 1876 moved to York township, Van Wert County, where he lived for about five years. Later he bought a farm of 70 acres in Jennings township, where he is now living.

Mr. and Mrs. Roller have had nine children, namely : Edna L., who married D. C. Gamble, of Van Wert, and has three children —Doyt, Vora and Ferne ; Ethel_, who married

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History tells of an early martyr—an ancestor of the present family—whose name was written Excellent Axline, and who suffered at the stake on account of his religious convictions. The first member of this old family to come to America was Christopher Axline or Exline, as the name came to be generally spelled, who located his home in Virginia. There his son Adam was born, who married and reared his family near Winchester, in the Shenandoah Valley. There was born Bernard Exline, the grandfather of William T., and then the family, seems to have branched out, one section settling in Pennsylvania. Valentine Exline, father of our subject, was born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, April 4, 1809, and was one of four sons who received a farm from his father. John Axline, brother of Adam, was of the family branch that remained in Virginia, following the old ways and retaining the old spelling of the name. Subsequently the descendants of John Axline moved to Muskingum County, Ohio, where they still cling to the old Swiss spelling.

The Taylor family, with which the mother of our subject was connected (John Taylor being her maternal grandfather), is well-known to be one of the oldest in Virginia, and it has produced one President of the United States, as well as many noted statesmen and political he' roes. She was a

daughter of William Redman and Sarah (Taylor) Thompson, both of old Virginia families, and was born in 1814 and died in June, 1894.

In 1846 Rev. Valentine Exline, who was a minister in the Lutheran Church, moved from Tuscarawas County to Allen County and settled on a rented farm. As early as 1837 he had entered 316 acres of wild land in Liberty township, Van Wert County. In 1850 he built a log cabin here, in the midst of a wilderness, and in 1851 planted wheat on his land, but did not settle on it until May, 1852. For many years he was concerned in the work of the ministry and was one of the early and well-known pioneer preachers. His death occurred January 5, 1887.

William Thompson Exline was nine years old when his parents settled in Allen County and was 15 when they removed to Van Wert County. Here he assisted his father to clear up the land—a mighty task in those days when little machinery was used to do the hardest part of the work. His education was the best that the times and localities afforded. When he was 18 years old, he was teaching school, being thus employed for five winters preceding the Civil War. On August 5, 1862, at Lima, Ohio, he enlisted for the Union service in Company A, 99th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and remained at his post of duty until the close of hostilities. At the storming of Lookout Mountain he was severely wounded, being first sent to a hospital at Bridgeport, Alabama, and later to the officers' hospital at Nashville, Tennessee. As soon as he was sufficiently recovered, he was given a furlough of 30 days and came home to recuperate. For bravery and gallantry on the field of battle, Mr. Exline received well merited promotion. Upon entering the service he was made 2nd lieutenant of his company, and in November, 1862, was promoted to be 1st lieutenant. At the battle of Stone River, the company lost heavily and when its captain, the lamented W. C. Scott; fell, Lieutenant Exline assumed command and was mustered out as captain of Company A, 50th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., reaching home July 22, 1865. Two days later, as a mark of public appreciation of his loyal services, Captain Exline was nominated or the position of auditor of Van Wert County, to which he was subsequently elected and served with efficiency through one term of two rears. In 1878 he was again elected county

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auditor and served for three years. The election was something of a Republican triumph, as he had a strong Democratic opponent. He was re-elected in 1881 for a second consecutive term of three years. At one time he also served as township treasurer, holding that office in Liberty township for five years. For many years he was a very prominent factor in politics throughout his section of the county but of late has contented himself with simply casting his vote.

For eight years Mr. Exline was superintendent of the Ohio Wheel Works at Delphos, a position he resigned in order to give his attention to oil development. He is familiar with all the practical workings of an oil field, and more than any other, he was the man who was instrumental in opening the oil field in the vicinity of Ohio City. His own land is rich in oil, and at the present time he has seven producing wells. Recently, with other heirs of Rev. Valentine Exline, he sold 160 acres of farm land to James M. Dull, who paid the sum of $12,000 in cash. He still retains over 452 ½ acres of land, which is really made up of three valuable farms. For some time he has lived retired from any active agricultural operations, having a capable farmer as a superintendent.

On December 21, 1865, Mr. Exline was united in marriage with Esther Scott, who is a daughter of Richard and Margaret Scott, then of Putnam, but formerly of Warren County, Ohio. Richard Scott died in 1884, but Mrs. Scott, now in her 88th year, still survives and resides with Mr. and Mrs. Exline. The latter have reared a family of seven children, these being: Eva May, who married Joseph Augustus Foor and resides in Denver, Colorado ; Scott Leroy, a prominent and wealthy citizen of Cleveland, Ohio, who married Sarah Roberts ; Williams Grant, who married Della Nothnagle and resides in Cleveland, where he is the assistant manager of the Exline Publishing Company, an important business enterprise ; and Margaret, Estella, Ethel and Georgia, who all reside at home. Mr. Exline is a well-read, intelligent man, and has given all his children many educational advantages, fitting them to acceptably fill the business and social positions to which his prominence as' a man of affairs has assisted them.

For many years Mr. Exline has been one of the leading members of the Lutheran Church in Liberty township, of which he is a trustee, the local organization belonging to the General Synod of the Lutheran Church. His life has not only been marked by unusual business enterprise, but he possesses the esteem of those with whom he has come in contact because of his adherence to honorable methods. A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Exline accompanies this sketch.

JOHN R. HAVENS, a prominent citizen of Pleasant township, president of the board of township trustees and a leading agriculturist, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, July 31, 1871, and is a son of Henry E. and Mary (Sprague) Havens. The Havens family which is a very old one in Ohio, was founded in Franklin County by the great-grandfather of John R. Havens. The paternal grandparents were John and Rebecca (Fanher) Havens, the former of whom was born n New Jersey and the latter in New York. John Haven was a lad of nine years when his parents left New Jersey and came to Ohio is pioneers. During his youth he worked on he Ohio Canal, receiving at first the sum of $8 per month. He proved his efficiency and later was made a foreman of construction, at salary of $16 per month. These figures are interesting, especially in comparison with the

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salaries paid for similar work and responsibility at the present. John Havens, the grandfather, settled permanently in Franklin County where he eventually acquired some 800 acres of land, and passed his last days in the vicinity of Columbus.

Henry E. Havens, father of John R., resides on his well-cultivated farm of 80 acres, in section 2, Pleasant township, Van Wert County, which he has occupied since 1884. He was born August 13, 1837, in Franklin County Ohio, where he was liberally educated for his time, and where as a farmer he passed a portion of his mature life. On March 9, 1862, Mr. Havens was married in Franklin County, to Mary Sprague, a daughter of William and Mary Sprague. The children of this marriage are : Nellie, wife of Franklin Johnson, of Columbus, Ohio; Mary, wife of M. H. Osborn, a well-known attorney of Van Wert; John R., of Pleasant township; Lucy, wife of Paulus Weisheimer, of Columbus, Ohio; and Florence, a teacher in the public schools of Columbus. Politically, Henry E. Havens is a Republican. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian Church at Van Wert, in which he is one of the elders.

In boyhood John R. Havens accompanied his parents to Van Wert County. After completing the common-school course, he spent two years at the Ohio Normal University at Ada, and the two following years at the Normal University at Wauseon, Ohio, thus thoroughly preparing himself for the exacting profession of a teacher. For several years thereafter Mr. Havens taught school in Van Wert County, and during his last year in the educational field was superintendent of the High School at Grover Hill, Paulding County, Ohio. Since then he has given his entire attention to agricultural pursuits and to the performance of his duties in connection with the township offices to which his fellow-citizens have elected him. Politically he is a Republican, and is serving his second year as township trustee, being president of the board.

On October 29, 1895, Mr. Havens was married to Cora Hardesty, a daughter of Amos and Caroline (Kauffman) Hardesty, residents of Paulding County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Havens have two children—Howard and Ruth. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian Church, at Van Wert.

HENRY MORKOETTER, a leading agriculturist of Washington township, residing on his farm of 80 acres, situated in section 34, was born in this township May 20, 185o, about one mile east of his present home, in section 35, and is a son of Balse and Mary Elizabeth (Lause) Morkoetter, old residents of that township. His father, who was born in Hanover, Germany, came to America about 1846 and settled first in Allen County, where he owned 40 acres of land, but which he never occupied as a homestead. He was married to Mary Elizabeth Lause in the old log Catholic Church in Delphos by Father John Otto Bredeick. He and his father-in-law, John Henry Lause, bought 160 acres of land in section 35, and were the first taxpayers on the land. Mr. and Mrs. Balse Morkoetter raised a family of eight :children, seven of whom are still living, as follows : Henry ; Gertrude (Mrs. John Goeble) ; Christian; Elizabeth (Mrs. Frank Kaverman) ; Theressa (Mrs. Samuel Alexander), of Delphos; Anna (Mrs. William Binlei), of St. Louis, Missouri; and John, who resides near Delphos. Balse Morkoetter died rune 28, 1872; his wife survived him many ;ears, dying December 19, 1893.

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Henry Morkoetter was reared and educated in Van Wert County. He married Barbara Koller, a daughter of George and Barbara (Renidl) Koller, who were natives of Bavaria, but were married in Cleveland, Ohio, and had eight children, four of whom still live, namely: Barbara wife of our subject; Mrs. George Wolke, formerly of Covington, Kentucky; Mrs. Mollie Vonderembse, of Delphos, and John, of Chicago. George Koller died in 1900 aged 83 years his widow resides in Delphos.

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Morkoetter have had eight children, all of whom are living, viz.: Mamie, wife of Gregory Wolfe, of Delphos, and the mother of two children—Arvella and Florence ; Lena who married Joseph Metzger, Jr., of Allen County, and has two children—Lucile and Philomene; George; Matilda (Mrs. Thomas Gengler), whose husband is a farmer in Allen County; Philomene, Theodore; Edward and Richard. ,

Mr. and Mrs. Morkoetter have lived on their present farm since October, 1883, when they purchased the land. They are Catholics, being communicants of the Church of St. John the Baptist at Landeck. Mrs. Morkoetter is a member of the Altar Society. She has the reputation around Delphos of making the finest butter of any one in the locality, and is also a breeder of chickens, ducks, turkeys and other poultry.

DAVID ASHBAUGH. Among the well-known and highly respected citizens of Jackson township, who have passed away, was the late David Ashbaugh, whose death occurred on February 28, 1883. He was born in Hocking County, Ohio, January I, 1844, and was a son of David Ashbaugh, who was a very early settler in that county.

The late David Ashbaugh was reared in his native county and obtained his education in the public schools. He grew to man's estate with an excellent knowledge of farming, and with industrious, temperate habits. Thus in early life he made many friends whom he retained through a long and useful life.

On February 9, 1865, Mr. Ashbaugh was married to Catherine Weidener, who was born in Hocking County, Ohio, February 1, 1845, and is a daughter of Frederick and Catherine Weidener, natives of Germany, who came in youth to Hocking County with their parents who were very early settlers in that part of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Ashbaugh had seven children, all sons, as follows: Elmer E., William L., James A. and Charles E., all of Jackson township; Alvaro S. of Paulding County ; and David S. and Nora C., both of Jackson township.

After his marriage, David Ashbaugh continued to reside in Hocking County for some years, and then moved to Allen County where he lived until the spring of 1882, when he came to Van Wert County and located near Wetsel. Here he died in the following year before he had completed his plans for a permanent home.

In 1884 Mrs. Ashbaugh, with her son, settled on the present home farm of 80 acres, which is situated in section 18, Jackson township. At that time the whole farm was a great woods, and it required much industry and good management to bring about its present ugh state of cultivation. Mrs. Ashbaugh, in very interesting way, can relate many pioneer experiences. She is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church at Wetsel.

NOAH C. ASHBAUGH, one of the sons of Mrs. Ashbaugh, was born in Allen County, Ohio, September 30, 1876. On October 7, 1903, he was married to Ortha M. Stemen, who is a daughter of David Stemen, of Wash-

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ington township, Van Vert County. Mrs. Noah C. Ashbaugh died April 2, 1905, leaving an infant son, David L., who was born March

5, 1905.

Politically Noah C. Ashbaugh, like his father, is a Democrat. He is a well-known and highly regarded citizen.

CONRAD RUPRIGHT. Probably no citizen of Van Wert is entitled to a greater share of credit for the steady growth and prosperity of the city during the past 30 years, than J. Conrad Rupright, junior partner of Rupright Brothers, the well-known manufacturers of tile and brick, whose enterprise and energy have made them one of the leading firms in Van Wert County. Mr. Rupright was born October 15, 1851, in Union County, Ohio, on the farm where he spent the years intervening between infancy and manhood. He attended the district school and assisted in the farm labors until he had reached his 21st year, when he came to Van Wert and for two years was in the employ of his brother, John George Rupright. He then entered the grocery business in partnership with Philip Scaer, but after one year withdrew and engaged independently in the same line for a couple of years. In 1877 the present partnership with John George Rupright was formed, and the honorable and upright dealings of the firm have brought a steady and permanent increase of business. Rupright Brothers also deal in coal, the sales of this commodity forming an important branch of the business. J. Conrad Rupright is also creditably identified with the municipal affairs of Van Wert, in the election of November, 1905, having been elected its city treasurer.

Mr. Rupright was married December 12, 1878, at Van Wert, to Elizabeth German, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth (Smith) German. Mrs. Rupright was born in Van Wert on March 19, 1859, and has always enjoyed a large circle of friends. They have two children—Otto C. and Walter A. The family are consistent members of the German Lutheran Church, of which Mr. Rupright is treasurer, and are prominent in both religious and social circles.

HENRY CLAY WILLIAMS, one of the most highly esteemed citizens and large land owners of Liberty township, residing on a farm of 172 acres, situated in section 16, was born in Mayfield, Cuyahoga County, Ohio, January 15, 1839. His parents were Daniel and Alice (Blish) Williams.

Daniel Williams was of Scotch descent, his father having been a native of Scotland. His wife's father was a native of Germany. Mr. Williams and his wife were born in Connecticut. Removing from that State, they settled in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, where Mr Williams followed his trade as a carpenter and joiner, also operating a farm which he owned. Here he died in 1843, at the age of 53 years. His wife died October 11, 1888, in her 82nd year.

Henry Clay Williams was reared and educated in Cuyahoga County, where he remained until he was 21 years of age. In 1860 he joined a party to go to California in search of gold. He returned in the winter of 1867-68 and located in Van Wert County, where he and his brother, Daniel B., bought a sawmill in Liberty township, and also a farm of 280 acres. He continued in the sawmill business until 1881, and since that time has been engaged in clearing and farming the land which

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he bought upon his return from the West. He is now practically living in retirement. Besides his farm, which lies just outside the corporation lines of Ohio City, he owns considerable property, comprising several town lots, a fine residence property on Main street, and a business block on the corner of Main and Jefferson streets within the city limits,. He at one time owned 13 acres within the corporation lines, which he divided into town lots and sold. A great many of these were in the section in Ohio City that is bounded by the Erie Railroad and Carmean street on the north, Williams street on the west, Shane street on the east and the "Clover Leaf" Railroad on the south.

Mr. Williams was first married on October 21, 1869, to Anna Catherine Brown, who died January 30, 1875, at the age of 29 years, leaving two children : Alice Daisy, who married Otto Pollock, of Cumberland, Iowa, and has five children—Harold, Catherine, Frances and Ruth and Ruby (twins), and Cora, at one time a teacher in the Van Wert County schools who died April 27, 1900. Mrs. Williams was a member of the Lutheran Church.

On October 5, 1876, Mr. Williams married Catherine Dobson, a daughter of Hugh Dobson. To them were born three children : Chauncy H., who married a Miss Ord on December 26, 1905, and lives near Colorado Springs, Colorado, on a large stock farm owned by his father-in-law; Anna M., who lives at home; and William H. Mrs. Williams was a Lutheran in religious belief. She died July 13, 1891.

In 1881 Mr. Williams erected his present large brick house. He sawed all the lumber and made with his own hands all the brick in the house. He also made all the brick used in the Brewer schoolhouse, which has since been torn flown and replaced by a larger building. He was never engaged in the brick business, and only made those required in building his residence and the schoolhouse. He is a natural mechanic and has done considerable blacksmithing. Mr. Williams has been a member of the School Board for nine years and was president of the board for two terms. He has also served as supervisor of Liberty township. Faternally, he is a Mason.

FRANK A. POLING, treasurer-elect of Van Wert County, is a successful agriculturist of Ridge township where he owns a farm of 83 aches. Mr. Poling was born in Barbour County, Virginia (now West Virginia), August 4, 1857, and is a son of Harvey and Mary (Markley) Poling, his father being also a native of that State, while his mother was born in Maryland. The latter died in 1880. The father is still living, being now in his 86th year.

Frank A. Poling received his. early education in a private school in West Virginia, and later entered the University of West Virginia at Morgantown, where he pursued a three years' course previous to teaching school. In 1880 he came north to Ohio and engaged in caching in Union County for one school year, Ind in 1881 came to Van Wert County. Here he both taught and successfully conducted a farm in Hoaglin township. This combining of he work of a farmer and a teacher was continued for some 13 years. In 1888 he purchased his recent farm of 83 acres in Ridge township. He then relinquished his school york and devoted his attention exclusively to agriculture. His farming operations are carried on along scientific lines and few farmers an show more pleasing or profitable results Ian his.

On August 15, 1885, Mr. Poling was married to Minnie Crader of Marysville, Ohio, and

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a family of five children have been born to them—Charles N., William L., Mae, Mary A, and Doyt. Mr. Poling is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a most upright, enterprising citizen. He is a Republican, and has been chosen to fill a number of public offices since locating in this county. While a member of the School Board, he was made its president, and the work done under his administration resulted most happily for the schools of Ridge township. While a resident of Hoaglin township, Mr. Poling served as assessor two terms and has been justice of the peace in Ridge township for nine years. He was recently elected Treasurer of the county by a very flattering vote and is one of the most popular men in the county. Fraternally he is a member of Abanaki Tent, Improved Order of Red Men and of Alpha Lodge, No. 1, Home Guards of America, both of Van Wert. A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Poling and their children accompanies this sketch.

REV. JAMES M. SHERER, of the United Brethren Church, has been a valued minister in this religious body for the past 15 years. He resides on his 60-acre farm in sections 8 and 9, Jennings township. Mr. Sherer was born in Spencer township, Allen County, Ohio, January 1, 1856, and is a son of Abram W. and Sarah (Miller) Sherer.

The record of the Sherer family is .clearly traced to the time of the great-grandfather of Rev. James Sherer—George Sherer, who was married in Virginia to Elizabeth Coler. The latter was born in 1779, and died December 20, 1848. James Sherer, a son of this union, and the grandfather of our subject, was born February 1, 1810, and died May 15, 1895. On February 3, 1834, he married Rebecca Nelson,who was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, September 26, 1818, and died September 30, 1848. They had these children : Abram W., Lucinda, Anthony, Huldah, Louisa, Sarah E. and Rebecca; the father of our subject being the only survivor.

In 1853 Abram W. Sherer, who was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, June 13, 1835, accompanied his parents to Allen County. His father entered 80 acres in section 3, Spencer township, and Abram W. Sherer still retains and occupies the old homestead. His life has been an entirely agricultural one. He married Sarah Miller, who was born October 12, 1838 and died March 6, 1863. They had four children, namely: James M.; Fannie, born February 22, 1858; Rebecca, born March 3, 1860, and an infant who died unnamed.

James M. Sherer was reared a farmer boy, and was educated in the district schools. He was a man of mature judgment when he entered the ministry of the United Brethren Church, in September, 1890, in which he has been active ever since. During the first two years his work was mainly of a local character, and then his sphere was widened and covered Allen, Hardin, Auglaize and Putnam counties, including Zanesville, Indiana. In 1894 he was ordained under Bishop H. T. Barnaby, at the annual conference, in Union Chapel, Mercer County. His subsequent charges were : Monticello circuit, Kenton mission, Olive branch,. Elida, Zanesville (Indiana), Miami and Twelve-Mile circuit.

In 1877 Mr. Sherer came to his present home—a valuable property consisting of 60 acres, 45 of which he has cleared, the rest having been cleared when he purchased it. His land has proved exceedingly fertile, his corn yielding under his fine methods of tillage, 50 bushels and over to the acre, and his oats fully 30 and over. Mr. Sherer successfully operates

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his farm and continues to improve it. When he settled here, it was almost entirely woodland, and a log cabin was the sole building. Now a handsome, comfortable residence stands in its place, and substantial barns and granaries shelter fine stock and store the fruitful yields of the farm.

On July 25, 1877, Mr. Sherer was married to Ella Garee, who was born April 16, 1860, in Allen County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Henry and Sarah Jane (Rupert) Garee and a granddaughter of Louis and Sarah (Wagner) Rupert, pioneers in Allen County. Louis Rupert still survives, being a venerable man of 92 years. Mr. and Mrs. Sherer have six children, as follows : H. F., who married Elnora Hance, has three children, and resides in Van Wert County ; Emma Florence, who married John Wilkins, of Allen County, and has three children; Abram, residing at home; Bessie Pearl, who married David Heiss, has one child and resides on the home place; and Clara Belle and William Floyd, both living at home. Mr. Sherer is one of the trustees of the United Brethren Church at Monticello. While pursuing his agricultural activities with excellent results, he devotes a great deal of time to his religious duties. His people admire and esteem him, and they know that he is ever ready to befriend them, and in time of need to give them the most practical kind of sympathy. Politically he is a Republican and is serving his second term as justice of the peace in Jennings township.

FORGE W. STRIPE, a well-known agriculturist of Van Wert County, was born and reared on a farm in section 29, Hoaglin township, where he now resides. He was born October 11, 1860, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Harvey) Stripe—one of four surviving children, namely : John, a resident of Indiana ; William H., of Hoaglin township; Jacob L., of Van Wert; and George W. Jacob Stripe was a native of this State, and at an early day came to Van Wert County, where he entered a large tract of land from the government, in what is now Hoaglin township. Here he resided until his death in 1882, when the county lost a reliable, honorable citizen.

George W. Stripe attended the public schools during his boyhood, and has always been interested in husbandry, being known as one of the best farmers in the township. He was married January 21, 1885, to Hermia A. Hattery, who was born on the farm now occupied by our subject, her parents being Nathaniel and Ellen (Acheson) Hattery. Both parents were natives of Ohio, the father coming to this county from Carroll County when a young man and entering the land which is now the home of Mr. and Mrs. Stripe. At that time Van Wert was but a small hamlet, and no roads had been laid out in the vicinity of his land. Mr. Acheson was a Republican in politics, public-spirited to a degree and took an active interest in township affairs, serving at one time as treasurer ,of the township. He was a member of the Van Wert County Agricultural Society of which he served as president; was affiliated with the Royal Arcanum and was a consistent member of the First Presbyterian Church of Van Wert. He died March 12, 1882 and is survived by six children, viz.: Elizabeth, wife of A. A. Giffin, of Hoaglin township; Thomas F., of Van Wert; Mary E., wife of H. K. Vincent, of Van Wert; Hermia A., wife of George W. Stripe; Margaret E., wife of S. W. Long, of Van Wert; Ind Nathaniel.

Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Stripe, namely : Marie, and one that

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passed away. Mr. Stripe is a Democrat. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and Marion Encampment at Van Wert, and is also a member of Alpha Lodge, No. 1, Home Guards of Amercia, of Van Wert. Mrs. Stripe and her daughter also hold memberships in the latter organization. The family are highly esteemed by every one. Mr. Stripe is a director of the Victor Horse Breeding Company.

WILLIAM H. PENNELL, vice-president of the People's Savings Bank, of Van Wert, and one of the city's representative men, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, April 18, 1843, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Baker) Pennell. Mr. Pennell is one of a family of 12 children, and was educated in the public schools of Fairfield County. He was but a lad when he offered his services in defense of his country, at the opening of the Civil war, first serving for three months in the 17th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf. In 1862 he reenlisted in Company D, 99th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and having been detailed as a druggist in the medical department, continued to serve until his honorable discharge in 1865.

In September, 1865, Mr. Pennell came to Van Wert and for a time was engaged in a plaster business, but later accepted the position of cashier in the Van Wert National Bank, with which he remained connected for the succeeding to years. After a few years of comparative retirement, he again entered into active business relations, assuming the position of vice-president of the People's Savings Bank of Van Wert. Mr. Pennell stands very high in banking circles, and, with his family, occupies a prominent place in the educational and social movements of the city.

At Van Wert. Mr. Pennell was marriedto Percelia, daughter of John Zimmerman, and they are the parents of two sons—Charles and Frank H.—enterprising young business men, who own and operate the leading drug store of the city. Mr. Pennell owns one of the luxurious homes on. South Washington street, and is, in all respects, one of the most substantial citizens of Van Wert. Politically he is affiliated with the Republican party. He is a liberal supporter of the Lutheran Church.

JACOB A. WISE, township trustee and owner of a fine farm of 80 acres situated in section 1, Liberty township, was born November 5, 1865, in this township, and is a son of George Michael and Elizabeth (Hertel) Wise, who were both natives of Germany.

George M. Wise was born February 29, 1816, in Germany and later came to this country and settled in Philadelphia, where he ran a bakery. He was married on March 9, 1847, to Elizabeth Hertel, and shortly after his marriage sold the bakery and moved to Bethlehem, Stark County, Ohio. In 1852 he moved to Liberty township, Van Wert County, where he purchased a farm of 80 acres, which was mostly timberland. This he cleared and built a log house. He added to this farm from time to time until he owned 320 acres of land, besides several dwelling houses and a building in Van Wert in which a grocery store was conducted. Before his death on March 21, 1898, he sold the greater part of this land to his sons. He was the father of nine children, namely: George J., who lives in Liberty township; Mary, who married David Elick, of Paulding County, and is now deceased ; Elizabeth, who died during infancy ; Susan, who is the widow of William Davis—she operates a grocery store in Van Wert; Catherine, now deceased,

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who was the wife of C. T. Bailey; Adam, who is a miller in Van Wert; Michael, who lives in Liberty township; Jacob; and Agatha, who married Rev. J. A. Mosier, of Indianapolis. Mrs. Wise was born April 4, 1825, and died April 9, 1800.

Jacob Wise was reared and educated in his native township, and has spent the whole of his life here engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was married on November 6, 1887, to Josephine Sidle, a daughter of James and Elizabeth Sidle, of Pleasant township. Mrs. Sidle died in 1873 ; her husband's death occurred 10 years later in 1883. To Mr. and Mrs. Wise have been born nine children: Goldie; Lillian; Ilo; Daisy ; Grover, deceased at the age of one year; Naomi; Lucile, Waldo and an infant not yet named. After his marriage Mr. Wise first went to housekeeping on the farm adjoining the one now occupied by his brother, and the next year moved to the farm of 80 acres which he still occupies. He has made many substantial improvements on the farm, erecting his large frame house in 1890, and five years later the fine large barn. He also owns one lot and two residences in Van Wert. Politically Mr. Wise is identified with the Democratic party, and has served in several township offices. He was for six years one of the school directors, and, at present he is one of the township trustees. He is one of the leading members of St. Peter's Evangelical Church and a teacher in the Sunday-school.

JOHN W. FISHER, mayor of Delphos and editor and proprietor of the Delphos Courant, is a citizen who enjoys in a large degree the confidence and esteem of his fellow-townsmen who have known him for a number of years in both the newspaper field and in official life. He is stilla young man, having been born March 24, 1874, at Columbus Grove, Putnam County, Ohio.

In November, 1880, Mr. Fisher accompanied his parents to Delphos, where his father died and the brothers and sisters married, and established homes of their own. He was educated in the public schools and his ambition was to prepare for college, but at the time when his aim seemed about to be realized his father met with financial reverses which changed his course in life. Putting aside his personal ambitions, with the cheerful manner and practical outlook which have ever been noted characteristics, Mr. Fisher obtained employment first with W. T. Dolbey, in the express and newsstand business, and later with C. M. Tolan, who was then the publisher of the Delphos Weekly Herald, his resolve being then to learn the printing business. Later he was employed at Van Wert in both the Times and the Bulletin offices, and then removed to Toledo, where he was connected with the Blade.

During the winter of 1893-94 Mr. Fisher returned to Delphos, where he established an agency for the Lima Times-Democrat, and during this period his energy in securing pertinent articles concerning Delphos for publication in the journal which he represented, brought him into very favorable local notice. Among those who noted Mr. Fisher's success was Mr. Tolan, who established the Delphos Daily Herald, securing Mr. Fisher as city editor. One year later the Herald was sold to Gasson & Sentz, and Mr. Fisher continued with the new firm until in January, 1902, when he bought the Delphos Courant from E. B. Walkup.

Mr. Fisher has always been a consistent Democrat and, along with his continued work or the welfare of his city, has also labored for he success of his party. In 1900 he was electd city clerk and was re-elected in 1902 and in

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1903, his official life proving satisfactory to all concerned. When he announced his candidacy for the mayoralty, he met encouragement on every side, and his election was almost a matter of course, in a great measure on account of his personal popularity. Mr. Fisher is known to be honest, and fearless of opposition when he advocates necessary municipal reforms. Able, alert, having the best interests of the city at heart, with a ready comprehension of what these are, his administration promises much for the permanent progress of Delphos.

Mr. Fisher was married May 16, 1896, to Mary J. Kolb, of Delphos, daughter of George and Mary M. (Beck) Kolb, natives of Somerset, Ohio, and New York State, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher have four children living, and one deceased, viz.: Vera Leola, born March 3, 1897; Howard Francis, who died October 3, 1904, aged six years ; Earl James, born March 20, 1901 ; Eula Christina, born August 2, 1903; and Olga Catherine, born November 25, 1905. The family are members of St. John's Catholic Church. Personally Mr. Fisher is a member of several societies, among which are the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Knights of America, Catholic Knights of Ohio, Improved Order of Red Men and Knights of the Maccabees. His portrait accompanies this sketch.

REV. SILAS SHERMAN HUNTER, a minister of the Church of God and also one of the successful agriculturists of Union township, where he owns a fine farm of 100 acres in section 7, was
born in Morrow County, Ohio, September 9, 1844, a son of Kilbreath and Delilah (Lindsley) Hunter. The father of Mr. Hunter was born in Licking County, Ohio, and in boyhood

accompanied his parents to Morrow County. In that county he married Delilah Lindsley, who died when her son, Silas S., was eight years of age. The father was a lifelong farmer. His later years were spent with his children and he died at the home of his eldest son, at the age of 72, years. His three children were: John, now a resident of Willow Springs, Missouri, and a survivor' of the Civil War; Silas S., of this sketch; and William Morgan, who resides near Scott, Van Wert County.

When Silas S. Hunter was about four years old, his parents came to Van Wert County and settled on a farm in Liberty township, on which he remained until he was 18 years of age. In February, 1864, he enlisted for service in the Civil War, serving until he was honorably discharged in December, 1865. He was a member of Company H, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol,. Inf., and his commanding officers were Captain Updegrove and Col. Frank Askew. The regiment took part in the second fight at Resaca and was continually under fire, from Buzzard's Roost to Atlanta. It was attached to the division of Sherman's army which intercepted General Hood, and participated in the battle at Pickett's Mills, in which engagement the division lost 1,700 of its heroes in two hours. At the battle of Nashville the 15th Regiment was on the first line of the advance. Thence it proceeded to New Orleans, to Indianola and to San Antonio, Texas, where it was held on provost duty for five months. Then commenced the homeward march,. through Indianola to New Orleans, and thence to Columbus, Ohio, where the regiment was mustered out. Mr. Hunter arrived home on December 29, 1865.

On February 4, 1864, just before leaving for the front, Mr. Hunter married Philura Welch, who was born in Van Wert

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County, Ohio, and was a daughter of John Welch. At her death she left two sons—Jesse, of Scott, Ohio, and John K., of Toledo. In 1874 Mr. Hunter was again married, his wife being Mrs. Katherine Weaver, who was born in Van Wert County, Ohio, and was a daughter of John and Sarah Underwood. The children of this union were : Ida May, wife of Edward Allison, of Union township; Olive May, deceased, who was the wife of Bert Place; David, a resident of Union township; Harry Vinton, of Paulding County; and Benjamin Harrison and Walter Gaylord, both living at home. Mr. Hunter was married (third) in August, 1904, to the estimable lady who now presides over the household. She was formerly Mary Blanchard, was born in New jersey and is a daughter of Manning and Susan (Cook) Blanchard. Mrs. Hunter is a highly accomplished, as well as a very capable lady. For 15 years prior to her marriage, she served as a trained nurse, being a graduate of the Women's Hospital, New York City. She has worked under physicians of both of the principal schools of medicine, in various places, where her professional efficiency has been very generally recognized.

After his return from the army, Mr. Hunter remained with his father on the farm for two years and then bought 15 aces of land in Liberty township, to which he removed. After clearing it, he sold it to advantage. He located on his present farm in 1873, for $400 buying 80 acres of heavily wooded land, to which he has since added 40 acres. At the time of the original purchase no road had been cut through to reach it. The highway now passing it is known as the Hunter and Davidson road. Mr. Hunter has done all the clearing and made the many improvements, which have added beauty and value to the place. The handsome home alone could not have been constructedfor less than $4,000, while all the other structures needed in the successful operation of a large, modern farm are of a substantial character. In addition to his main business of general farming, Mr. Hunter operated a clover threshing machine for some four years.

Mr. Hunter prepared for the ministry by personal effort and for 15 years traveled a circuit, his itinerancy covering Defiance, Williams and Hardin counties. Politically 'Mr. Hunter is a Republican and, while taking but a good citizen's interest in public matters, he has, on occasion, made campaign speeches. For a number of years he was a member of the School Board, and has served in other offices, notably as road supervisor.

RICHARD J. MORGAN, M. D., physician and surgeon at Van Wert, a specialist in diseases of the eye and ear, was born August 10, 1866, in Van Wert County, and is a son of William H. and Esther (Harris) Morgan.

The parents of Dr. Morgan, who were both born in South Wales, came to America in their youth, were married in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and soon after located in Ohio. The father engaged in coal mining in Jackson County until 1860, and then removed to Jennings township, Van Wert County, where he purchased a farm of 172 acres. Both parents died in 1881—the father in April, and the mother in September. Both were consistent members of the Welsh Presbyterian Church, and honored for their unostentatious goodness and piety. They had seven children, viz.: Henry, William, John, Hugh, Richard J., Lizzie and David H. The family possessed the Welsh gift of song, and four of them were members at one time of the well-known Venedocia Male Chorus, of Jennings township.

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Richard J. Morgan's boyhood was passed on his father's farm, and he obtained an excellent education, through his own efforts passing through the normal schools at Ada, Ohio, and Angola, Indiana. In 1887 he entered Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, from which he was graduated in 1890, and entered into practice at Van Wert, in partnership with Dr. G. W. McGavren. From the first his success has been most gratifying, and he is numbered with the leading specialists in his line in this section of the State.

On September 26, 1893. Dr. Morgan was married at Van Wert, to Dode M. Lynch, a (laughter of Abner and Margaret (Hammers) Lynch, of this city, and they have two sons—Richard J., Jr., and Chester A. Both he and his wife are connected with the Lutheran Church.

Fraternally, Dr. Morgan is a Mason and a Knight of Pythias, and politically, a Republican.

HARVEY EIKENBARY, one of the well-known business men of Van Wert, a member of The Ireton Brothers & Eikenbary Company, engaged in the grain and elevator business, is a native of the Buckeye State, born April 22, 1872. He is one of a family of 10 children, his parents being Henry and Sarah (Fireland) Eikenbary. As a boy, Harvey was given good educational advantages, which prepared him for a successful business career. In 1896 Mr. Eikenbary came to Van Wert and entered the grain and elevator business, in 1901 becoming a partner with the Ireton brothers, under the firm name of The Ireton Brothers & Eikenbary Company .

Mr. Eikenbary is not only associated with his partners in business but he is also a member of the family, his wife being formerly Ella Ireton. They have a pleasant and comfortable home located at No. 502 East Main street, Van Wert. Mrs. Eikenbary is a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church.

JAMES EDWARD SMITH, a highly respected citizen, and one of the most

substantial farmers of Liberty township, the owner of a finely improved and highly cultivated farm of 120 acres in sections 20 and 29, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, November 28, 1845. His parents were Jacob and Mary Ann (Stickler) Smith.

Jacob Smith was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, and was a son of Jacob Smith, Sr., a native of Pennsylvania, who came to Fairfield County, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until the time of his death in 1855. Jacob Smith, the father of our subject, was reared and educated in his native county, and there married Mary Ann Strickler, a daughter of Jacob Strickler.

Jacob Strickler, who was a native of Germany, upon his arrival in this country first settled in Pennsylvania. Later he moved to Fairfield County, where he purchased a farm of 36 acres, adjoining the farm of Jacob Smith, Sr., and here gave his whole attention to farming until the time of his death in 1870.

Our subject, James E. Smith, was reared on the home farm which was situated on the line between Fairfield and Franklin counties. On October 10, 1867, he was married to Barbara Elizabeth Hart, a daughter of Bernhardt and Anna Mary (Wooster) Hart. Mr. Hart was born in Pennsylvania, but while he was an infant his parents moved to Fairfield county and located on a farm. Here they died when he was still quite young.

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To Mr. and Mrs. Smith were born five children, four of whom still live, namely : William and George Washington (twins), Etta May and Lewis Charles. William and Lewis Charles live at home. George Washington married Ida Moore and lives in Ohio City ; they have seven children—Mabel May, Walter, Glenn, Gaylord, Elva, Samuel Floyd and Eva. Etta May married George S. Clouse and lives in Ohio City ; they have four children : Charles Edward, Ella May, Edna Elizabeth and Michael Roy.

After his marriage, Mr. Smith continued to live on his father's farm until the spring of 1886, when he moved to his present location, which was then a farm of 80 acres, and which he bought two years later. In February, 1906, he purchased 40 acres of land directly across the road from his home. The pleasant home which the family occupies was erected before Mr. Smith took possession of the farm; but he has made many other substantial improvements on the place, which make it one of the best farms in the township. In 1905 he added to these improvements by building a fine large barn.

Mr. Smith is a man of public spirit and enterprise and has served in several minor township offices. He was for a number of years a school director of Violet township, Fairfield County, and served four years as township clerk. He is a member of the Lutheran Church.

HENRY HIPSHER, for many years one of the foremost agriculturists of York township, moved to his present farm in section 29, Ridge township, in the spring of 1904, and has been busily engaged in making it conform to his ideas of a desirable country residence. Mr. Hipsher was born July 27, 1834, in Marion County, Ohio, and is a son of Asrom and Mary (Myers) Hipsher. Asrom Hipsher was born in Pennsylvania, both he and his wife being of German descent. He came to Van Wert County soon after the birth of our subject, and settled in Pleasant township where he resided until 1848. He then located in York township, where he died two years later, leaving four children, who are now living, viz.: Henry ; Daniel, a resident of California; Eliza, wife of Peter Pixler, of Oklahoma ; and James A., who resides in Michigan.

Henry Hipsher has been engaged in agricultural pursuits since his boyhood, and is one of the practical and successful farmers of the county. Soon after the Civil War he purchased 154 acres of land in section 4, York township, and improved it until it was one of the best farms in the county. He made this his home until within the past two years. The farm in section 29, Ridge township, contains 16 acres, and it is safe to say that with Mr. Hipsher's methods of improvement it will not be long before this property shows a decided increase in value.

Mr. Hipsher enlisted in August, 1862, in Company K, 46th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and saw much active service, being with General Sherman; with Grant at the siege of Vicksburg; Big Black River; Jackson; Mission Ridge; and many minor engagements. At Mission Ridge he received a severe wound in the left thigh, which cut short his career as a soldier. This necessitated his removal to the hospital, where he was confined for about months, first at Columbus and later at Cleveland.

Mr. Hipsher has been twice married, his first wife having been Mary Pixler, a native 3f Wyandot County, Ohio, to whom he was married in 1854. Four children from this

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union survive, viz.: Joseph E., Amanda A., wife of Richard T. Hughes ; William J.; Rosina, wife of Edward Lamar—all of York township. On February 6, 1902, he was married to his present wife, Mary L. Keist, a native of Van Wert County. Her parents are John and Lydia A. (Gibson) Keist, the formet a native of Germany and the latter of Ohio. The fruit of this union is one son, Clark H., who was born May 4, 1905. Mr. Hipsher is a Republican and a member of W. C. Scott Post, No. loo, G. A. R., at Van Wert. In religion he is a Methodist, being a member of the Beech Grove church.

WESLEY CHARLES HOLDEN, V. S., a skilled veterinarian of Delphos, was born in Harrison township, Dearborn County, Indiana, Max 9, 1852, and is one of five sons and five daughters born to John Dennis and Melissa Ann (Odenboy) Holden. His grandfather, Hughey Holden, came from New Jersey about 1768, and settled in the then Western wilds which was destined to become the State of Indiana.

Wesley Charles Holden was educated near the Ohio line, his studies being carried on in Dearborn County, Indiana, and Hamilton County, Ohio. In 1879 he entered the College of Veterinary Surgeons in New York, from which he was graduated in 1881. It was not until he had tried a number of locations that he finally chose Boone County, Indiana, as his Headquarters and opened an office there on November 8, 1882, having practiced for a very short time in Franklin County, Indiana, and Butler County, Ohio. He was associated with Dr. John Nicholas Naven for some time. After 12 years of successful practice in Boone County, Dr. Holden moved his office to Delphos, where the many calls for his services made him one of the busiest men of the county. Not only does he practice throughout Van Wert County, but also in Allen, Putnam and Auglaize. He has two barns and some of the finest horses ever brought to this section. Two of the animals are draft horses which were imported from England and Belgium, respectively, while a third, a young stallion named "Dr. Arp," is a trotter who gives promise of taking rank among the swiftest in the State.

Dr. Holden was married on June 30, 1898, to Goldie Turner, of Forest, Ohio, by whom he has an interesting family of five children, namely : Frank Bruce, born April 17, 1899; Ruth, born June 13, 1900; Vivian, born August 19, 1901 ; Lelia Ann, born August 17, 1803 ; and John D., born May 20, 1905.

The Doctor is an active member of the Ohio State Veterinary Medical Association and of the American Veterinary Medical Association of the United States and Canada.

JOHN L. CORATHERS. Among the prominent citizens of Pleasant township, identified with its public offices and agricultural development for a number of years, is John L. Corathers, whose well-cultivated farm of 286 1/2 acres is situated in section 35. He was born September 25, 1855, in Seneca County, Ohio, and is a son of Phillip C. and Delilah (Huffman) Corathers. The parents of Mr. Corathers came toOhio from Pennsylvania, settling first in Seneca County, from which they moved, in 1877, to Van Wert County. They resided on a farm n the western part of Pleasant township for number of years, but later moved to Van

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Wert, where the father continued as a carpenter, builder and contractor, dying there in 1896. The mother of the family still survives and is a venerated resident of Van Wert. The children of Phillip C. Corathers and wife were : John L., Cynthia J (Mrs. S. J. Stump), Mary A. (Mrs. Harry Handwerk), Wilbur R., and Edgar B., all residents of Pleasant township; Mathias E., of Van Wert; and Nelson P., deceased.

John L. Corathers was reared an agriculturist, but enjoyed better educational advantages than were afforded many of his companions. After completing the public school course in his locality, he attended the State Normal School at Republic, Ohio, returning with fresh zest to farming, which had been his choice of occupation. In the fall of 1880 he engaged in farming in Pleasant township, where he has since lived.

On November 11, 1875, Mr. Corathers was married to Mary Schaaf, who was born in Seneca County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Jacob Schaaf. They have had four children, namely : Cora E., deceased ; Harley W.; Rolla F.; and Lemuel C. These children have been given good educational opportunities, Mr. Corathers being a stanch friend of the public schools.

Politically he is a Republican, and has served in a number of the local offices with the greatest efficiency. For nine consecutive years he was a member of the School Board, was assessor for one year, and for seven years was one of the township trustees, during a part of this period serving as president of the board: It is mainly due to his energy and enterprise that this township has notably good roads. Mr. Corathers has always been of the opinion that much of the prosperity of a section is founded on well constructed roads and well conducted schools. He is a man of social instincts and is connected with a number of the fraternal and social organizations of the country, among which are : Van Wert Lodge No. 251, Marion Encampment and Uniform Rank, I. O. O. F.; Beecher Council, No. 275, National Union; Alpha Lodge, No. 1, Home Guards of America; Fraternal Order of Eagles; and the Sons of Veterans—all of Van Wert. Religiously, he is a member of the Society of Friends.

WILLIAM HENRY AYERS, one of the successful and enterprising business men of Liberty township, owner and operator of a valuable farm of two hundred acres situated in sections 34 and 35, is a native of Van Wert County, where he was born on September 2, 1853. He is the, son of Cyrus and Rachel (Butler) Ayers.

His father was born in Ashland County, Ohio, June 20, 1826, and was a son of James M. Ayers of Wayne County, Pennsylvania, who married Jane Richie, and subsequently moved to Ashland County, Ohio. He was married September 5, 1848, and moved to Van Wert County in 1850. On April 3, 1858 while felling timber, he was caught by a falling tree, which broke his spinal column and caused his death 17 days later. His wife Mrs. Rachel Ayers, was a daughter of John and Mary (Lindsay) Butler, of Tuscarawas County, Ohio, and died on July 2, 1905. They had six children, all of whom are living.

William H. Ayers, the subject of this ;ketch, was reared in Liberty township, received a good, common-school education, afterward devoting his time to agricultural pursuits, and in 1878 was married to Alvina Vangundy, daughter of Abraham Van-

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gundy, a prominent farmer of Mercer County, Ohio. They have six children : Vernon, who married Nellie Smith and lives in Rockford, Mercer County; Emery Lee, who married Nellie King, of Van Wert, lives in Ohio City, and is the father of one child; Orley, who lives at home; Tony Gaylord, unmarried; Ethel Burdella Edna and Agnes Edith May.

About three years after his marriage, Mr. Ayers purchased 80 acres of land (the old home place) from the heirs of the estate, his father having originally entered 40 acres of land in section 35. He has added to this tract until now he is the owner of 200 acres of productive and valuable farm land. At one time he had 240 acres, but disposed of 40 acres in 1905. He also owns two residence properties in Ohio City, and has 13 producing oil wells on his land. In addition to the 13 wells on his own farm, which is leased to the Trial Oil Company, he has in operation 10 complete oil wells on other land which he has himself leased. He has two producing wells on the Straw lease, one on the Butler lease, and four on the Peter Temple lease. Mr. Ayers had on his farm the second oil well drilled in the Ohio City field, which for several months produced 200 barrels per day. It has been pumping since April 1, 1904 and is yet productive.

Mr. Ayers is recognized as one of the township's progressive and public-spirited men—one whose interests are coincident with those of the community. He is a Democrat and has always taken a lively interest in the success of the party, being elected trustee of the township by that party and serving thus for several years. He was for three years treasurer of the township and for two years township clerk, being at one time an unsuccessful candidate for county commissioner. For several years Mr. Ayers was one of the directors of the warehouse andelevator at Van Wert, which is owned by the Grange of Liberty township. In all these various duties Mr. Ayers has ever striven to give the public his best and most conscientious efforts. On a preceding page in proximity to this, is shown a picture of Mr. and Mrs. Ayers and their family, executed from a recent photograph.

ALONZO CONANT. deceased, formerly president of the First National Bank

of Van Wert, was born March 17, 1817, at Turner, Maine, and was a son of Benjamin and Althea (Staples) Conant. In tracing the ancestry of Mr. Conant back to the founding of the family in America, the biographer calls to mind many historic spots and men and women are brought to light who were distinguished in their day and whose names are still honored in various annals.

Roger Conant, the emigrant and the probable ancestor of those on American soil who bear the name, was baptised at All Saints Church, East Budleigh, Devonshire, England, April 9, 1592, a son of Richard and Agnes (Clarke) Conant. In November, 1616, he was married in London and emigrated in 1623, probably sailing in the good ship "Ann," which arrived at Plymouth, Massachusetts, in July, 1623. The early accounts of the various religious differences of the time are too complicated to be fairly discussed in the limited space here allotted ; for there were many men of many minds, all equally eminent in some respects and all equally honest in their views. Sufficient he it to say, after due study of the history of the early settlements in Massachusetts, that in the winter of 1624-25, Rev. John White selected the stern and inflexible Roger Conant to go to Cape Ann and take charge of the Puritan colony there established. This

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colony was the first permanent settlement in the Massachusetts territory and was the nucleus of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The selection of Roger Conant, a man of influence and authority, proved admirable in every way, and soon, on his representations, a class of colonists, superior to the former, left England to make their homes in the New World. In 1625 he was made governor of Salem, Massachusetts (having built the first house in the place), and in 1628 was superseded by John Endicott.

Benjamin Conant, the grandfather of the late Alonzo Conant, was born August 29, 1756, at Bridgewater, Massachusetts, and in April, 1775, was one of Capt. Nathan Mitchell's company which, on the Lexington alarm, marched to Cambridge. In 1795 he removed to Turner, Maine.

His son Benjamin, father of Alonzo, was born September 24, 1794, before the family left Massachusetts. Benjamin Conant became a farmer in Androscoggin County, Maine, and in 1816 married Althea Staples, who was born in Massachusetts, July 8, 1793, and died in 1848, the mother of 10 children. The father of the family died in 1868.

Alonzo Conant was reared on the home farm, received the ordinary educational advantages of his day, and in 1839, with several companions, left his home to visit Ohio. He was well enough educated to be able to teach school and was strong enough to make his way by physical labor, while at the same time his mental gifts equipped him for business. For some five years after leaving home, all these accomplishments were called into requisition as necessity or choice demanded. In 1852 Mr. Conant came to Van Wert. Here, in partnership with Simon Swineford, he was engaged in a grocery business until 1868. At that time the manufacture of staves engaged theattention of a number of the capitalists of Van Wert, and when a stock company was formed and the business organized, Mr. Conant was elected general manager, a position he filled for three years. In 1871 be came interested in the First National Bank as a director, and in 1878 was elected its president, an honorable position he filled with dignity and efficiency until the time of his decease, August 3, 1896.

On November 22, 1849, in Delaware County, Ohio, Mr. Conant was united in marriage with Esther A. Clark, who was born September 13, 1825, at Zanesville, Ohio, and they became the parents of four children, namely: Mary A. (deceased), Myrtle A., Ione E. (deceased), and Lida E.

In politics Mr. Conant was long prominently identified with the Republican party in Van Wert. At various times he filled offices of trust and responsibility, both in the municipality and county, and was in every way a representative citizen. He was one of the oldest members of the Odd 'Fellow fraternity in Van Wert, and until the close of his life took a deep interest in the work of the order. In religion Mr. Conant was a firm Universalist. His death brought to a close a useful, honorable and well-rounded life.

MYRON VALPAN LONGSWORTH, the well-known buggy and harness man of Delphos, was born June 6, 1849, in Oberlin, Lorain County, Ohio, and is a son of Dr. William N. and Rebecca Ann (Doolin) Longsworth. The family moved to Van Wert county about 1855, and in June, 1857, the mother died. Dr. Longsworth began the practice of his profession in this county at a time when the work of a physician was hampered

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by many trials and difficulties. After 20 years of service to his fellowmen, he retired from practice in 1875, and engaged in the drug business. Later he became a stockholder in a handle factory, and in 1890 ' moved to Convoy, where he passed to his reward on May 12, 1903.

Myron V. Longsworth was reared and educated principally in Van Wert County although three years were spent with an uncle in Noble County. He learned the trade of harnessmaker with one Strandler, finishing in the shop of Frank Shoop. He then located in Delphos, where he first secured work with J. D. Lloyd, with whom he entered into partnership in 1875. Upon the death of that gentleman, Mr. Longsworth succeeded to the business, and in 1885 moved to his present quarters. He handles buggies, saddles, harness—in fact almost every article of equipment that is used in connection with a horse. The magnitude of his business and the confidence reposed in him speak more eloquently of his integrity and worth than any words that might be written.

Mr. Longsworth was married in 1870 to Mary Mauk, daughter of Michael Mauk, who resides near LaFayette in .Allen County. They are the parents of six children, as follows : William Alden; Harry M.; Emery, who died in infancy; Otis; Mabel, who died at the age of 19 years; and Effie. Mr. Longsworth is a Mason and a member of the Royal Arcanum.

BENJAMIN F. HOFFMAN, mayor of Ohio City, vice-president of the Farmers' Bank, and identified with numerous business enterprises here, was born in Liberty township, Van Vert County, Ohio, in 1863, and is a son of the late Christopher Hoffman, who settled in Van Wert County in the '50's. Mr. Hoffman was reared on his father's farm, where he remained until he was 20 years of age, after which he held clerical positions in a drug store and a grocery store. In 1892, in association with his brother, he established the firm of Hoffman Brothers, which was continued until 1903, since which year Mr. Hoffman has been giving his attention to his various investments and to the duties of his public offices.

Politically Mr. Hoffman is a Democrat. He has served three terms as township clerk, three terms as a member of the City Council, and in the November election of 1905 was chosen mayor of Ohio City by a majority of 35 over G. C. Marston, although the Republican majority in the other offices was 60 votes.

In 1888 Mr. Hoffman was married to Myrtle Spence, who died 18 months later, leaving one daughter—Myrtle. In February, 1891, he married, as his second wife, Margaret Kiser, who is a daughter of Jacob Kiser, a farmer of Liberty township. They have five children, viz.: Ray, Thelma, Georgia, Lucile and Vera. Mr. Hoffman is connected with the St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church and is a member of the church council. Fraternally he is an Odd Fellow and a Knight of Pythias.

The Farmers' Bank of Ohio City, Ohio, was organized in 1899, with the following officers : S. G. Sheller, of Dayton, president ; M. M. Agler, cashier; and Benjamin F. Hoffman, vice-president. The other members of the company comprise these substantial citizens: O. G. Hackedon, manufacturer; J. A. Swoveland, druggist; C. A. Leasenhoff, grocer ; W. H. High, farmer and stockraiser ; and Frank Caster, Samuel Hertel, and L. Disher, farmers. Although the bank has been in existence but a few years, it has secured

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partnership in the dry goods and clothing line, under the name of Lytle & Roebuck, which continued until 1859.

In 1864 Mr. Lytle returned to Sidney; where he lived retired for some years, recuperating from a state of impaired health. In 1871 or 1872 he returned to Delphos, and in 1874, upon the organization of the Commercial Banking Company, he was called from his retirement to become its president, an honorable and responsible position he continued to fill until his death. He was interested in other successful business enterprises, and was on the directing boards of the Ohio Wheel Works and the Union State Works. He was considered a man of great business capacity and among his associates was looked upon with respect and consideration.

In his political views he was a Republican and on one occasion was selected by his party as a candidate for Congress. Although he was not elected on account of the district being notably a Democratic one, his personal popularity was shown by the vote he polled, it being the largest ever received by a Republican in this district.

Mr. Lytle was married first to Martha L. Major, a daughter of Samuel Major. Six children were born to them, all of whom died young. The death of the mother occurred in 1864. In 1866 Mr. Lytle was married (second) to Mary Sprague, of Wooster, Ohio, and They had two children: Lindol S., who was accidentally killed in 1902 ; and Margaret K.. who is the whole survivor of the family. Het mother died in March, 1875. On May lo, 1876, Mr. Lytle was married to Isabella R. Harn, of St. Marys, Ohio.

Fraternally Mr. Lytle was a Royal Arch Mason and a member of the Royal Arcanum. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church the public confidence and occupies an enviable position among the financial institutions of this locality. Much of its prosperity is directly due to the high standing of the officials and the careful, conservative course they pursue.

REYNOLDS KNOX LYTLE was born in Stark County, Ohio, February 17,

1819, and died at Delphos, November 9, 1890. His parents were Robert and Hannah (Knox) Lytle, natives of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and on the maternal side the line was the same which produced James Knox Polk, the 11th President of the United States.

Mr. Lytle came of a family of substance, and being the youngest of the eight children was afforded more than the ordinary educational advantages. His father died in 1821.. His mother removed with him to Sidney, Ohio, in 1833, where he prepared for college, and in 1839 he entered the freshman class of the Miami University, at Oxford. He remained a student there until he completed his junior year, and then entered upon the study of medicine with Dr. G. Volney Dorsey, of Piqua, Ohio. It seems that this profession, at close range, lost its attractions, for he soon gave up medical study and engaged in teaching school. His mother died in 1842, and in 1845 he came to Van Wert County and very soon took charge of the general store of Hollister, Bliss & Pettit, at Delphos. Within two and a half years he became' a member of the firm, the name of which became Hollister, Bliss & Lytle. This partnership continued until 1856. Mr. Lytle had proved his adaptability for a mercantile career, and in that year he formed a business

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at Delphos and one of its trustees. His remains were interred in the West Side Cemetery, at Delphos.

The late Lindol S. Lytle, only brother of Margaret K. Lytle, married Fannie Hume. She survives with two children—Leila S. and Fern B.

CLARK GOOD, a well-known member of the Bar of Van Wert, recently elected to the office of city attorney, was born in Van Wert County, January 10, 1877, and is one of a family of two born to his parents, Abraham B. and Rachel (McLaughlin) Good.

Mr. Good was reared on his father's farm in Van Wert County. His education; which was commenced in the common schools, was completed at the Ohio Northern University, where he was graduated in 1903. On June 11, of that year, Mr. Good was admitted to the bar, and opened an office at Van Wert, where he has continued in the practice of his profession ever since, meeting with gratifying success.

December 25, 1903, Mr. Good married Millie Reed, who is a daughter of William I. Reed, one of the county commissioners of Van Wert County, of whom extended mention will be found in another part of this work. The pleasant family residence is at No. 514 North Cherry street, Van Wert. Mr. Good occupies well-appointed offices at No. 116 1/2 East Main street. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. Good's political affiliations have always been with the Republican party. In 1905 he was nominated by his friends for the office of city attorney, and at the election held in November was successful, receiving a plurality of 227 votes over his Democratic opponent, Levi X. Jacobs. He is a valued member of the Van Wert County Bar Association.

M. M. AGLER, cashier of the Farmers' Bank of Ohio City, was born in Willshire township, Van Wert County, Ohio, in 1870, and is a son of Timothy Agler, formerly a soldier in the Civil War and now a prominent farmer of Willshire. Mr. Agler was liberally educated, attending the Western Ohio Normal School at Middlepoint, and then for 13 years teaching school in Van Wert County, in all this period having only three schools. He has always been an intelligent, public-spirited citizen, deeply interested in public affairs, and from 1897-98 represented Van Wert County in the State Legislature. For some years he held other offices, including that of township assessor. Since the organization of the Farmers' Bank, he has served as cashier and has other large interests of a business nature.

On October 5, 1903, Mr. Agler was married to Miss L. A. Johnson, daughter of the late Joel Johnson of Willshire township. Fraternally he belongs to the Knights of Pythias, at Ohio City, and the Red Men, at Van Wert.

REV. AMOS O. RABER, until recently pastor of the First Presbyterian

Church of Delphos, and one of the esteemed citizens of the city, was born at Wolcottville, Noble County, Indiana, and is a son of Daniel and Mary Ann (Dice) Raber.

The father of our subject died when he was

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six years of age, leaving a family of five children, of whom Amos O. was the youngest, the others being: Joel D.; Andrew J., Salome, who married Carl Risch ; and one deceased.

Without a father, the youth had a much harder path to travel than would have been his if he had had some careful, strong and interested fatherly help on which to depend. He was a brave little fellow, however, and determined to make his own way without incurring expense for his mother. He went to school at a place known as Dutch street, in Noble County, and paid for his clothes and board by working on neighboring farms. He early developed an ambition to enter the ministry, and with this for an incentive he worked hard and saved his money. He was' thus able to attend' the Waterloo Normal School in' De Kalb county and the Wolcottville Seminary. By 1891 he was able to realize his cherished hopes and was admitted as a minister of the Presbyterian Church. His first charge was at Mount Carmel, Indiana, where he remained almost four years. From there he accepted a call, in December, 1894, to the Wayne Avenue Presbyterian Church, at Dayton, Ohio, where he remained until January, 1899, when he came to Delphos. Mr. Raber had here a large and intelligent congregation of about 350 members. He found the church heavily in debt, but, by excellent management he greatly reduced the indebtedness, and also made many advances in the spiritual state, while adding to the material welfare of his charge.

On September 9, 1880, Mr. Raber was married to Mary A. Wise, of Stryker, Ohio, who is a daughter of George and Caroline (Strawman) Wise. Mr. Raber was a faithful pastor to his flock, and he and his estimable wife won the regard and affection of the members of the congregation, as well as of thosewho became acquainted with them in the social life of the community. He impressed all with his fidelity to the cause to which he has devoted his life and talents, and, while not being active in any factional contests, he was always ready to forward all the movements for the betterment of the moral standards of the community. Rev. Amos O. Raber closed his ministry^, in Delphos March 18, 1906, having accepted a unanimous call to the First Presbyterian Church at Derry, Pennsylvania.

REV. HARVEY BERGMAN, an ordained minister in the Society of Friends, is one of the most highly esteemed citizens of Washington township, where he resides on his thoroughly improved farm of 160 acres, situated in section 20. He was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, November 26, 1830, and is a son of George and Mary (Seger) Bergman.

The Bergman ancestry reaches, through many generations, to Scotland, from which land our subject's ancestors were driven by religious persecution. In the 17th century two members of this old Scotch family migrated to Germany, and, in the course of time, their children came to America and located in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia. George Bergman, the father of Rev. Harvey Bergman, was born in Maryland. Soon after his birth his parents moved to Virginia and thence to Licking County, Ohio. After George Bergman's marriage in Licking County, he moved to Fairfield County, Ohio, and subsequently to Jay County, Indiana, where he became a man of wealth and prominence. He reared a large family, 12 of his 14 children reaching maturity, and he was able to establish his sons on farms of 160 acres each and provide his daughters with 80 acres

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each, his estate at death, even then, amounting to some 500 acres. This large property had been acquired through industry and frugality, his trade as a cooper being profitable in his day, although much of his fortune was made in judiciously investing his earnings in land.

Rev. Harvey Bergman's educational advantages were only those of the common school, but a native intelligence advanced him beyond the majority of his companions, and he was teaching school when the large number of them knew nothing but to follow the plow. Reared in the faith of the Society of Friends, and thoroughly accepting the peaceful principles which are the foundation of their faith, the opening of the Civil War brought to him a problem difficult to solve. He was a strong supporter of the government, but to support it by force of arms was to be at variance with the tenets of his religious body. However, as the war was prolonged and as personal sentiments, however laudable, were not recognized by the authorities in whose hands was the suppression of rebellion, and drafts pressed all men into the service, Mr. Bergman enlisted, in 1864, and made a conscientious and faithful soldier.

At the close of the war, Mr. Bergman returned to his home in Jay County, Indiana, from which county he had enlisted and where his family still resided. Prior to his enlistment he had married Ann Axe, who died in 1868, the mother of seven children, namely : Mary, wife of William Rowe, who resides at Indianapolis; Sarah Ann, wife of Henry Kreusch, a merchant of Bryan, Williams County, Ohio; Perry, in business in California; Clarinda, formerly wife of Ivens Smith, who died at Coldwater, Ohio; Samantha Ellen, wife of Frederick Huntwork, a farmer of Portland, Indiana; and George and Hannah (twins)—the former of whom, now deceased, was the Republican nominee for judge at Portland, and the latter the wife of Rev. Charles Hiatt, pastor of the Friends' Church at Muncie, Indiana.

Mr. Bergman was married (second), at Winchester, Indiana, to Mrs. Almira (Pierce) Smith, widow of George Smith, and a daughter of Rev. Asa Heath Pierce. The latter was born at Mount Washington, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, July 30, 1809, and died in 1902, at which time he was the oldest recorded Free Will Baptist minister in the United States. Mrs. Bergman was born in Knox County, Ohio November 4, 1838, and is a thoroughly educated lady, having received her mental training at Mount Hesper Friends' Seminary, in Morrow County, Ohio. For four years previous to her marriage to our subject she had been an acceptable minister in the Society of Friends.

After their marriage in November, 1877, Mr. Bergman and wife came to Van Wert County. A religious concern had brought them and a great awakening followed their efforts, which resulted in the conversion of 500 persons, 300 of whom united with the Society of Friends. In March, 1878, with the co-operation of some substantial citizens of Ridge and Washington townships, they engaged in the erection of the present commodious church edifice at Middlepoint, at the same time holding meetings in the Presbyterian and the' Methodist Episcopal churches and in a school hall. On November 1, 1878, was dedicated their own church in which they have been ministers and evangelists ever since.

Mr. Bergman cleared his present fine farm and erected the substantial buildings thereon and, with his wife, owns 40 acres of land west of Portland, Indiana, as well as an attractive summer home at Bay View, Michigan. During his residence in Jay County, Indiana, he served for six years as county commissioner, but has taken no active interest in public matters since coming to Ohio. Both he and his

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wife stand very high in the community, exercising as they do, a gentle, refining influence, and exemplifying in their beautiful lives the value of the simple faith they profess and teach. Portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Bergman accompany this sketch.

NEWTON PUTMAN, whose valuable farm of 99 acres is situated in section 30, Liberty township, was born here March 30, 1857, and is a son of Peter and Sarah Elizabeth (Niferd) Putman.

Peter Putman was born in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, and was the son of Peter Putman, who was of German descent. In Somerset County the father of our subject was married to his first wife, Mary Ann Adams, and seven children were born to this union. Subsequently Peter Putman moved to Stark County, Ohio, where his wife died. In the meantime he had entered 160 acres of land in Liberty township, Van Wert County, and had returned to Stark County to make preparations for removal to the new home in the following spring. Removal was made by Mr. Putman, with his seven children, and settlement was made in Liberty township in the spring of 1841. Later he married Sarah Elizabeth Neiferd, in Van Wert County, and 11 children were born to this second union, making in all eighteen children of whom he was father. He resided in Liberty township for the rest of his life, dying here in 1887, aged 84 years. His venerable widow still survives, at the age of 79 years.

J. Newton Putman was reared and educated in school district No. 1, Liberty township, and has always been a farmer. In 1879 he was married to Emma Frances Fortney, who was a daughter of Daniel Fortney, whowas a very early settler in Liberty township and entered the farm on which Mr. Putman resides. Mr. Fortney died in 1899 and his wife in 1901.

Mr. and Mrs. Putman have had five children, the survivors being: Fremont, who married Lucy Krisher ; Grace, who married Frederick Lindemoot and has two children—Clara and Zelma ; Ira ; and Sherman Earl. Lucy Lee, a twin of Grace, died aged five months. Mr. Putman is a member of the Odd Fellows. His land is more than usually valuable on account of oil having been developed here, of which at present there are to producing wells.

S. J. WINNEY, postmaster at Ohio City, ex-mayor and ex-city clerk, has been a dominating factor in politics here for a number of years. He was born in 1862 in Michigan, where he was reared and received a good common-school education.

Mr. Winney began the business of life in the school room, where he engaged in teaching for some three years and then for a time was interested in a grocery business. Later he accepted a position on the "Clover Leaf" Railroad, as foreman of a railroad construction gang, which he filled for eight months. In 1888 he located in Ohio City, where for 14 years he managed the Wells-Fargo Express business. In the meantime he had taken much interest in city and township politics, and was successively chosen township clerk, city clerk and mayor. He has also been a member of the Republican County Central Committee, and is serving as' postmaster under a second administration, having been first appointed by the late President McKinley.

In 1891 S. J. Winney was married to Winnie L. Upton, a native of Ohio, and they have three children—Glenn E., Claud E. and Rea

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Ethel. Fraternally Mr. Winnie is a member of the lodge of the Knights of Pythias at Ohio City.

FRANK STIPPICH, a prosperous young agriculturist of Washington township, residing on his mother's fine farm of 90 acres, which is situated in section 33, was born January 12, 1876, on this farm, and is the youngest child of August and Mary (Schorr) Stippich.

August Stippich was born in Baden, Germany, and when only six years old came to America with his father, Michael Stippich, who first located near New Riegel, Seneca County, Ohio. Here August was reared, educated and married, the latter event taking place in 1856. He was united with Mary Schorr, a daughter of Michael and Catharine (Mumber) Schorr, who were also natives of Germany, but who came to this country during their early married life and settled in Seneca County, Ohio. Here Mrs. Stippich was born April 3, 1836. After their marriage, August Stippich and his wife moved to Van Wert County. They purchased 240 acres of land and built a log cabin. At that time the land was covered with a forest growth. This was cleared, substantial buildings were erected and many other improvements were made. The log cabin was later replaced by the house which is now occupied by the family. Mr. and Mrs. Stippich had the following children : Nicholas, the eldest, who died at the age of 20; Joseph, who died at the age of 19; Kate ; Michael, who lives at Delphos and is proprietor of the Inter-Urban Restaurant ; Mary, who married Thomas Gengler, of Clover Dale, Ohio; Agnes, who married John Metzger, of Delphos; Andrew, who married Julia Hugel and lives in Jennings township; Lena, now deceased, who was wifeof Louis Hugel; and Frank, subject of this sketch. Kate married Nick Goshe, of Seneca County. They lived for a time at Delphos, where she died, leaving five children, namely : Clara, who married Charles Hennig, lives in Kansas and has one child—Loretta; Rosa, deceased ; Joseph, who is in the United States Army, being stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas ; Edward, also is in the United States Army, at Fort Leavenworth ; and Fred, who lives with his grandmother on the old homestead. August Stippich died August 26, 1877, and was buried in the Catholic Cemetery at Landeck. His wife is still living on the home place with her son Frank.

Frank Stippich, the subject of this sketch, has always had his home in Washington township, where he was reared and educated, and has always been engaged in farming the home place. The farm originally consisted of 240 acres, but has been divided among the children until it is reduced to 90 acres. Religiously the family are all members of the Catholic Church at Landeck, Ohio.

ELDER WILLIS PUTMAN, whose well-improved and valuable farm of 181 1/2 acres of land is situated in Liberty township, resides on that portion of it which is located in section 29. He was born on this farm on May 6, 1864, and is a son of Peter and Sarah Elizabeth (Neiferd) Putman.

The father of Mr. Putman was born in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, where he was reared and educated. Later he came to Ohio and settled in Stark County where he remained until 1843. He then located in Van Wert County, on the present homestead farm. He was married twice and was the father of 18

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children. Many of these are settled in Liberty and adjoining townships.

Elder Willis Putman was reared in Liberty township and was educated in the public schools. In 1890 he was united in marriage with Lena Gaier, who is a daughter of Martin Gaier, of Willshire township. They have had these children: Walter, Clarence, Glen, Gaylord (deceased at the age of three years), Archie, Esther and Leland.

Mr. Putman's farm is a very valuable one on account of oil having been found here. At present he has four producing wells. In 1893 he erected his handsome and commodious frame farm residence. He is looked upon as one of the substantial men of his township. Mr. Putman is extensively known throughout this section, as he has operated a steam thresher for the past 18 years in Van Wert and Mercer counties.

JACOB S. ZOOK, a prominent and heavy contractor and builder of Van Wert,

whose portrait accompanies this sketch, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, April 5, 1838, being a son of Daniel and Nancy (Steel) Zook.

Daniel Zook, who was a native of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, removed with his parents to Wayne County, Ohio, when 18 years old. Nancy Steel was also born in Pennsylvania, and was a mere child when brought to Ohio, her parents being among the first families to locate in Wayne County. Daniel and Nancy reached maturity near Wooster, Wayne County, and were married in 1834. The husband then engaged in farming in that county, remaining there until 1841, when he moved to Crawford County and in 1851 to Wyandot County, where he entered 40 acres of land and cleared up the farm on which he died in 1854.

To Daniel and Nancy Zook were born six children in the following order : Mary, Jacob S., Amanda E., John W., William N. and Dennis C. In 1888 Mrs. Nancy Zook died.

Jacob S. Zook was about 13 years of age when his parents moved to Wyandot County, where he resided until 1856, when at the age of 18 he went to Oceola, Crawford County, where he served an apprenticeship of three years at the carpenter's trade with John Dome. For the succeeding four years he worked in partnership with Mr. Dome and. then went to Nevada, Ohio, where he commenced contracting on his own account, and thus continued until 1873. In that year he came to Van Wert . as this city afforded a wider scope for the exercise of his skill and ability.

When first coming to Van Wert, Mr. Zook formed a partnership with E. W. Wilson, which continued for four years, at the expiration of which time he established an independent business. In this city he has since erected the Hotel Marsh, the First Methodist Episcopal Church, the City Hall, the Second Ward schoolhouse, the machine shop and roundhouse of the Cincinnati Northern Railroad, the Brumback library, the Auditorium, the Home Guards Temple and various other prominent buildings. He owns a fine residence on South Washington street and 400 acres of well-improved land in Van Wert and Paulding counties. He is also a stockholder in the First National Bank and a member of its board of directors.

Mr. Zook's first marriage took place in Oceola, Crawford County, Ohio, January 21, 1862, to Amanda E. Barrick, who was born in the county named, July 20, 1839, and was a daughter of John and Jane Barrick. Both he and his wife were members of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, of Van Wert, until Mrs. Zook's death, which occurred in 1902. They had no children. Mr. Zook was afterward

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married to Mrs. Rosa F. DeMoss Gamble. In politics Mr. Zook is a Republican and as such has served in Van Wert's City Council for two years. Fraternally he is a Mason, ranking as a Knight Templar. As a business man he is broad and progressive, and his social standing is among the best citizens of Van Wert.

PETER KNITTLE, a former commissioner of Van Wert County, and one of the foremost agriculturists, has been a resident of section 14, Ridge township, practically all his life. His farm, which he purchased in 1875, consists of 260 acres of land and is among the best in this part of the State. Mr. Knittle was born April 8, 1850, and is a son of George and Margaret (Walter) Knittle. Both parents were of German descent, the father being a native of Pennsylvania and the mother of Hocking County, Ohio. Locating in Allen County, George Knittle entered 160 acres of land from the government and remained upon it until 1853, when he removed with his family to Van Wert County and settled in section 14, Ridge township. He was a prominent man in this township and county, and one who was highly esteemed. He was a devout member of the Lutheran Church at Middlepoint. In politics he was a Democrat. He died May 10, 1894, at a good old age, having attained to within a few months of 91 years. Three children survive him, viz.: Samuel, a farmer of Ridge township; Caroline, wife of Jacob Burgner, of Pleasant township; and Peter.

After leaving school, Peter Knittle gave his entire time to agriculture and in 1875 purchased 260 acres of heavy timberland, upon which he built a home and which he began toimprove. Cutting off the greater part of the timber, he converted it into clean tillable land, and began the work of cultivation. This all took years of hard and persistent work ; but Mr. Knittle may feel well repaid for his trouble. June 24, 1875, he was married to Lucy A. Steward, a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, and a daughter of Thomas and Angeline (Nye) Steward. They came to Van Wert County in 1872, and lived in Ridge township, where the father died in February, 1904. Since then the mother has made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Joseph Taylor, of Ridge township. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Knittle are: Nettie M., Joseph E., Laura E., Orah E. and Noah A. Mr. Knittle has been a prominent Democrat for. years and was an efficient and faithful commissioner of Van Wert County for two terms, two years of which time he was president of the board. He is a member of Abanaki Tent, Improved Order of Red Men, at Van Wert.

GOTTLIEB MOHR, a representative pioneer and well-known citizen of Hoaglin township, has resided on his present farm in section 18 since 1863. Mr. Mohr was born in Baden, Germany, September to, 1836, and is a son of Frederick G. and Catherine (Kuhn) Mohr.

The parents of our subject were also natives of Baden, Germany. In 1849 they emigrated with their children to Richland County, Ohio, and in 185o they came to Van Wert County and settled in Hoaglin township. Frederick G. Mohr entered 160 acres of land from the government, situated in sections 18 and 19, and settled in a rude log cabin in the wilderness. Here, with all the hardships attendant

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upon pioneering, he succeeded in developing the fine farm on which he lived until his death in June, 1871. The two surviving children are: Gottlieb, our subject, and Jacob, a resident of Van Wert County. Those deceased are Charles, Frederick, Christian and Catherine, who lived to old age and had families.

Gottlieb Mohr spent his youth on his father's farm in Hoaglin township, and attended school in a little log school house for a time; but in his day children were not afforded present day educational advantages. He grew into a good, reliable farmer, able practically to assume the duties of such when still a young man. In 1863, when he purchased his present 80-acre farm, he was able to operate it successfully, and has continued here ever since, now being somewhat retired from activity. He carried on a general line of farming and stock-raising for many years, and through natural increase and his excellent methods attained independence long ago. He now owns 495 acres of choice, well-improved land.

On April 1, 1861, Mr. Mohr was married to Sarah A. Snearly, who was born in Portage County, Ohio, February 13, 1842, and is a daughter of George F. and Mary (Voltz) Snearly. This was also a German family which came to Ohio at an early day and settled as pioneers in Portage County. When Mrs. Mohr was about seven years old, her people moved to Allen County, Indiana, where she was reared and married. A family of 11 children was born to this union. The survivors are: Edward G., of Union township; Susie M., wife of William M. Hoaglin, of Cavett; Cassie S., wife of George A. Foust, of Hoaglin township ; Lydia E., wife of James W. Rumble, of Hoaglin township ; Alta J., wife of Wilbur Moon, of Paulding County, Ohio; Hattie, wife of James Cavanaugh, of Cavett; and Walter. of Hoaglin township. The deceased members of the family are: David F., John, Solomon and Benjamin F. All died in infancy, except David F., who died aged 37 years. He left to his wife and seven children a 160-acre tract of land in Paulding County, with a clear title.

Mr. Mohr has always given his support to the Republican party. He has frequently been invited to hold office, and for three terms was the efficient treasurer of Hoaglin township. Both he and his estimable wife are members of the Evangelical Association. They are well known all through the township and are respected and esteemed. Their long lives have been filled with kind deeds, and their example of domestic happiness, thrift and industry has not been lost on their community. They are truly representative citizens and no history of this township would be complete without an extended mention of them.

DAVID J. DAVIS, deceased, formerly county commissioner of Van Wert County, Ohio, and for more than 20 years an active business man at Delphos, was born July 7, 1841, in Jackson County, Ohio, and was a son of Jenkin and Anna (Edwards) Davies. He died at Delphos on February 21, 1888, and was laid to rest in the West Side Cemetery.

Mr. Davies was reared and educated in Jackson County, enlisting in the Union cause before his education was completed, and serving both in the ranks and as a hospital steward. Upon his return from the Civil War he entered Lebanon University and after graduating therefrom (on October 21, 1867), locating at Delphos, where he entered into partnership with the late Henry J. Moennig. Mr. Davies was also interested in the insurance business, and. being

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a man of business capacity and promptitude, commander the general respect of his fellow-citizens. He served two terms as commissioner of Van Wert County, performing his public duties with the same faithful ability which he applied to his private business.

On October 8, 1867, Mr. Davies was married to Nancy Ellen Richey, who was born April 1, 1840, and is a daughter of Charles P. and Martha T. (Maddox) Richey. Mr. Richey was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, and settled in Van Wert County, in October, 1844, when his daughter was four years old. He still resides in Van Wert, having been a justice of the peace for 28 years. His wife died in 1866.

The children of Mr. and Mrs. Davies are : Charles Walter, born April 19, 1869, who married Stella Waugh, lives in Chicago, has one child—Verna—and occupies a very responsible position with the Illinois Steel Works, of that city; Jenkins Virgil, born October 1871, who married Anna Patterson and resides in Alabama; Homer Moening, born September 22, 1873, who is cashier of the Commercial Bank of Delphos; Ethel Armeda, born January 20, 1876, a teacher in the Delphos public schools; and Villa Verona, born November 26, 1879, who resides at home. of Van Wert County. The father died Feblin township.

GEORGE A. MOHR, one of Hoaglin township's best known citizens and prominent farmers, resides on his well-improved estate, which contains 120 acres and is situated in section 3, Hoaglin township. Mr. Mohr was born in this township, September 4, 1860, and is a son of Christian and Mary A. (Liest) Mohr.

The parents of Mr. Mohr were born in Germany, and were early settlers in this section of Van Wert County. The father died February 2, 1902, after a long, useful and exemplary life. He was a member of the Grand Victory Evangelical Church of Hoaglin township. His surviving children are : Mary A., wife of Thomas K. Rowley, of Hoaglin township ; George A., of Hoaglin township ; William J., of Union township; Samuel C., of of Hoaglin township; Benjamin C., of Van Wert; Elizabeth, wife of Wesley Reid, of Paulding County, Ohio; Amelia, wife of William Sealscott, of Hoaglin township; Savilla, wife of Elmer Stripe, of Hoaglin township; and Susan, wife of William Inwood, of Hoagland township.

George A. Mohr was reared in Hoaglin township and was educated in the public schools. His life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits. Since 1888 he has operated his present farm, and with such success that it is justly considered one of the most valuable in the township. He is a public-spirited and enterprising citizen, always ready to lend his influence to forward movements for the public welfare.

On October 28, 1888, Mr. Mohr was united in marriage with Sarah N. Bennett, who was born in Hocking County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Erastus H. and Mary E. (Poling) Bennett, the former of whom was born in Morgan County, Ohio, and the latter in Virginia. Mrs. Mohr was about 13 years old when her parents removed to Van Wert County. They resided for several years in Scott, Union township, Van Wert County, but now live in Paulding County.

Mr. and Mrs. Mohr have four children, viz. : William L., born August 12, 1889; Remus Irvin, born February 4, 1892: Ira G., born November 27, 1893: and Otto L., born November 17, 1898.

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Politically Mr. Mohr is identified with the Republican party. He has served three years as assessor of Hoaglin township. He is a member of Pequod Tribe No. 102, Improved Order of Red Men, at Scott, and of the lodge of Odd Fellows at Grover Hill. Formerly Mr. Mohr was president of District No. 4 Grover Hill Home Telephone Company.

JOHN B. BROWN, one of Van Wert County's well-known and respected citizens, and a prominent farmer of Pleasant township, residing in section 31 on his well-improved farm of 80 acres, was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, December 7, 1849, and is a son of William and Mary (Baum) Brown.

The father of Mr. Brown was born in Pennsylvania and his mother in Maryland. In 1835 they moved to Montgomery County, Ohio, as very early pioneers, where they became substantial farming people. The survivors of their family are: John B., of this sketch ; Martin, a resident of Van Wert, Catherine, widow of Ephraim Summers, of Montgomery County; and Annie, wife of Amos Dilts, of Pleasant township.

John B. Brown was reared on his father's farm, attended the district schools and was trained to be, practical farmer. He has been a resident of Pleasant township since 1883, and has lived on his present farm since 1903. It is considered one of the very valuable farms of the township and it is very well managed by its owner.

Mr. Brown was married June 1, 1881, to Etta Eckfeld, who was born in Harrison township, Van Wert County, Ohio, January 22, 1861, and is a daughter of John N. and Catherine (Gehres) Eckfeld, both natives of Germany and early settlers in Harrison township. For many years the Eckfelds lived in Van Wert, where the father died June 5, 1888, and the mother, April 12, 1903. The children who survive John M. Eckfeld and wife are : Elizabeth, wife of Martin Brown, of Van Wert; Etta, wife of our subject; Esther, wife of M. H. Standish, of Van 'Wert ; and John E., who resides in Van Wert.

Mr. and Mrs. Brown have had these children: Catherine M., William J., Elizabeth, Leah and Carl, the latter deceased.

Politically, Mr. Brown has always been affiliated with the Democratic party. In 1897 he was his party's candidate for the office of sheriff, but was defeated by a man who was also very popular, Sheriff John M. Webster, who had but 130 more votes.

Mr. Brown is a great advocate of good roads and he has been agitating this question for a long time. It was mainly through his earnest efforts that the first turnpike road was built in Van Wert County, which runs through Pleasant township, and which was named the Brown turnpike in his honor. He has proved himself one of the township's valuable and public-spirited citizens.

Fraternally, Mr. Brown is a member of Brookville Lodge, I. O. O. F., of Brookville„ Ohio.

DAVID L. McDONALD, one of the leading business men of Van Wert, now engaged in handling automobiles, is one of a family of five children born to his parents, Dr. David L. and Margaret (Robertson) McDonald, who resided near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The father of Mr. McDonald, now deceased, was one of the leading physicians and surgeons of Franklin Coun-

492 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

ty, Pennsylvania, where the family is well and favorably known.

David L. McDonald was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, November 26, 1872. In February, 1897, he became a resident of Van Wert, embarking in a drug business which he successfully conducted for some years. He then disposed of the business in order to enter into the automobile line, in which he has met with encouraging success. Politically Mr. McDonald is a stanch Democrat and for years has been looked upon as a party leader. He has held numerous positions of prominence in the party and in the fall of 1905 was the Democratic nominee for mayor.

Mr. McDonald was married to Anna K. Rupright, a native of Van Wert, and they have two children—John R. and David L., Jr. Mr. and Mrs. McDonald have a very pleasant home on the corner of Cherry street and Central avenue, Van Wert, and are members of the German Lutheran Church.

CHRISTOPHER GEPHART, who owns and resides on a farm of 76 acres, situated in section 22, Liberty township, is one of the substantial farmers of the locality. He was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, June 27, 1850, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Vinegar) Gephart.

Henry Gephart was a native of Germany, where he was reared, educated and married. He came to America in 1846 with his wife and one child, Peter, and located first in Tuscarawas County, where he worked on a farm, earning 25 cents per day. By economy and good management he saved enough from his meagre wages to purchase a farm in Adams County, where he lived for some time, and later bought18 acres more. He subsequently moved to Van Wert County and bought 80 acres of farm land, retaining at the same time the farm in Adams County. At this time he also owned two houses and lots in Decatur, Indiana. He passed the remainder of his life in Van Wert County; engaged in agricultural pursuits, dying here in 1889. His wife died in July, 1893. They were the parents of nine children, Christopher being the third in order of birth.

Christopher Gephart was quite small when his parents moved to Adams County, where he received his education in the district schools. He assisted his father in clearing the farm, which was mostly in timber, and was 21 years old when his parents moved to Van Wert County. He was married to Alice C. Dickerson, a daughter of Lewis and Hannah Dickerson, who lived in Liberty township. Lewis Dickerson owned a farm of 46 acres, besides two lots and a house in Dull. He died December 2, 1905. They reared to maturity nine children, as follows : Ardellas F., who married Jessie Smith, and lives in Glenmore and has three children; John P., who married Mamie Cowan and lives in Chicago—they have one child; Maud, who married Albert Custer, lives in Liberty township and has one child; Charles, who married Florence Adams and lives in Liberty township ; Lewis Herbert, who lives on the home farm; Ilo; Claude; May and Beatrice.

Mr. Gephart owned 80 acres in Willshire township, which he sold and then moved to Mercer County where he purchased a farm of 100 acres. After residing there four years, he sold out and moved to Paulding County, where he purchased 80 acres. He lived there for the next 10 years, and then traded his farm for 105 acres in Harrison township. After remaining there three years, he again made a trade for 80 acres in the same township, and in March, 1901, he sold the land in Harrison

AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 493

township and bought his present farm of 76 acres in section 22, Liberty township, where he has since resided. He has made many changes and improvements, among which may be mentioned a new frame house which he erected in 1902. Mr. Gephart is a member of the Improved Order of Red Men.

SAMUEL A. McCULLOUGH is one of Tully township's influential and progressive citizens, and an extensive farmer and shipper of hay. For many years he was an instructor in the public schools, and it is a notable fact that his success has been undisputed in every branch of business to which he has devoted his energies and abilities. Mr. McCullough was born in Perry County, Ohio, March 27, 1847, being a son of William and Elizabeth (Nixon) McCullough and a grandson of William McCullough.

Our subject's grandfather was born in Ireland, and was raised by an uncle, iii whose care he had been left while his parents crossed over to Scotland. As they were never heard from thereafter. it is presumed they were victims of the plague which prevailed at that time. He was 19 years old when he emigrated to America and located in Pennsylvania. In 1806 he entered land in Fairfield County, Ohio, where he lived until his death at the patriarchal age of 97 years. During his early residence there, he was asked to subscribe for a paper which was then contemplated, which was afterward established (nearly loo years ago) and which has since been conducted as the Ohio Eagle. It is the oldest paper in Ohio, published without change of name or politics; it was sent regularly to the address of William McCullough during his lifetime, afterward to his son—William, and upon his death to the third and pressent William, grandson of the original subscriber. No notice, however, was ever sent to the paper to change the name of the party to whom it was sent, so far as the books of the paper show, it is William, the grandfather, who still receives it.

William McCullough, the father of our subject, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, and after reaching maturity moved across the line into Perry County. There he bought a tract of 160 acres, which was then considered of little value, being purchased for $700, but four years later he sold it for $5,000, the marked increase in value being due to the discovery of coal upon it. He then returned to Fairfield County where he died at the age of 75 years. The deceased had married Elizabeth Nixon, who was born in Virginia, a daughter of John and Rebecca (Holt) Nixon and a granddaughter of George Nixon, who was a native of England and had a son George who served in, the American Army during the Revolutionary War. John Nixon, Mrs. McCullough's father, was also born in England and at an early age moved to Virginia. The Nixons were Southern soldiers during the Civil War, while some of the McCulloughs were in the Northern Army.

William and Elizabeth (Nixon) McCullough had 12 children these nine reaching maturity : Rebecca (Larimer), deceased ; Jennie (Martin), who lives in West Virginia; Lucinda (McCune), of Moxhala, Ohio; Samuel A.; Maggie (Barnes), of Somerset, Ohio; Nancy (Sherburn), residing in Cowden, Illinois; J. W., who lives in the neighborhood of his old home; E. B., who is on the home farm of 320 acres in Fairfield County ; and Caroline (Focht), deceased. The mother of our subject is still living at the advanced age of 86 years.

Samuel A. McCullough, whose name heads

496 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

this sketch, was eight years old when his parents removed to Fairfield County, and there he

attended the district schools until he was 16 years old. He then engaged in teaching, a vocation he followed successfully for 29 years, during which period his residence continued in that county. He farmed through the summer months and taught winters. While on a visit to Bloomfield, Iowa, he was offered a position as a teacher and remained there two years, but in 1892 came to Van Wert County, and located on a farm in Hoaglin township. The following spring Mr. McCullough located on the T. S. Gilliland farm, where he remained four years, after which, for one year, he occupied the Little farm, adjoining the County Infirmary. He then purchased the 160 acre tract in Tully township on which he has since lived. This place was unimproved when he acquired it, but he has since erected a modern home, a good substantial barn and outbuildings, and made many other important improvements. The three last appraisements, all made by Dr. Leslie, indicate that Mr. McCullough's energy has been well expended. In 1880 the land was appraised at $4 per acre; in 1890 at $7 and in 1900 at 5o cents more per acre than any other piece of land in the township. That Mr. McCullough is of a progressive nature was shown by his activity in securing two pikes in his section of the township, over the opposition of some extensive owners, who could not appreciate the value of the work at that time, but who have since acknowledged their mistake. For 18 years past he has been largely engaged in buying and selling hay, mainly shipping to Eastern cities. Besides raising annually from 150 to 200 tons of hay on his home place, he produces some small grain—barley being the best crop, with considerable live-stock. As his farm is distinguished for being one of the highest points in the county, it is called "Grand

View", and as it commands the surrounding country for miles around the name is most appropriate.

In 1874 Samuel A. McCullough was united in marriage with Anna Jane Wright, who was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, and is a daughter of William and Betsy (Hansacker) Wright. William Wright, the father, was born in Fairfield County and was an extensive dealer in all kinds of livestock. His wife, Betsy Hansacker who came to Fairfield County from the State of Virginia, was a daughter of Jacob Hansacker, who had been captured by the Indians when a small boy and held in captivity for some 25 years; upon his escape and return to civilization, he still possessed the traits and habits of the Indians. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Samuel A. McCullough : Isaac W.; Kate; Benjamin F.; and William A., who is teaching school in Pleasant township. Politically, Mr. McCullough is a Democrat, and for a number of years has efficiently served as justice of the peace. Religiously, he is a Spiritualist.

On a preceding page, in connection with this sketch, are shown views of Mr. McCullough's residence and barn.

ELIAS L. SHEETS, whose fine farm of 190 acres, all in one body, is situated sections 7 and 18, Willshire township, was born in this township on February 1, 1857, being a son of Adam and Sarah Ann (Davis) Sheets. His grandparents were John and Catherine Sheets, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneers of Richland County, Ohio. John Sheets died when almost 80 years of age and his wife at the age of 84; they were the parents of 12 children.

Adam Sheets, father of Elias L., was born

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in Richland County, Ohio, and in young manhood came to Willshire township, Van Wert County, with no capital but his trade, that of a carpenter. He became a large farmer, acquiring 340 acres of land, of which he cleared a large portion, and was also a successful stockraiser, although he lived to be but 37 years of age. Adam Sheets married Sarah Ann Davis, who still survives him, at the age of 78 years; their children being : Mary Jane, who died young; Oliver, of Wren; Nancy A., wife of John E. Major, of Willshire township; Elmina (Mrs. Joseph Moser), of Adams County, Indiana; and Elias L., of this sketch.

Elias L. Sheets has always resided in Willshire township and is one of its best-known citizens. After his marriage he came to his present farm, in the spring of 1886 purchasing 80 acres of land, which, added to the 110 he previously owned, made one of the largest and most valuable farms of the township. The estate is a part of the Richland reservation and is mainly devoted to stock-raising. Mr. Sheets was a large buyer and shipper of livestock for two years, handling sheep, cattle, hogs and horses. He now makes a specialty of raising the best grade of draft horses. The log buildings which were on the farm when he settled upon it have given way to attractive, modern structures of all kinds.

In June, 1883, Mr. Sheets was united in marriage with Eliza E. Lichtenstiger, born in Black Creek township, Mercer County, Ohio, in October, 1855. They have one daughter—Sarah E. Both Mr. and Mrs. Sheets are valued members of the United Brethren Church at Wren, in which the former is a trustee. Politically, Mr. Sheets is identified with the Democratic party. He is serving on the board of directors of the Wren Telephone Company and is one of the township's enterprising, successful men.

AUGUST C. GROTHOUSE, deceased, was one of the substantial businessmen of Delphos, where he owned property and conducted a blacksmith shop for 30 years. Born in Washington township, Van Wert County, Ohio, February 10, 1847, he was a son of John and Gertrude (Krift) Grothouse, his parents being natives of Germany. When they came to America, in 1845, they settled in Van Wert County, where the father died on January 11, 1877, and the mother in September, 1899.

Until he was 18 years of age August C. Grothouse attended school during the winters and during the summers assisted his father in clearing and cultivating the home farm. As he did not wish to be a farmer, he then learned the blacksmith's trade, receiving instruction from two excellent workmen, Charles Vonderemze and Henry Weible; and in 1872 he was prepared to go into business for himself. He opened a shop on Canal street, in partnership with Joseph Will, and they worked together for four years, when Mr. Grothouse purchased his partner's interest and removed his shop to a fine location, having bought land at the corner of Second and Canal streets. Here Mr. Grothouse transacted a large business until the time of his death, which occur= red on November 14, 1902. He retained the entire tract which he had purchased until 1901, when he sold half of it to Henry and Joseph Metzger. The deceased also owned other property, and left his family well provided for, having always been industrious, prudent and farseeing.

On October 27, 1870, Mr. Grothouse was married to Catherine Reker, who was born September 16, 1852, and is a daughter of Harman and Gertrude (Hempker) Reker. The parents of Mrs. Grothouse were born in Germany and came to Van Wert County, Ohio, in

498 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

1849, marrying in Washington township, where the father died November 3, 1883. Mrs. Reker still resides on her farm three miles from Delphos. Mr. and Mrs. Grothouse had seven children, as follows : John, who died July 30, 1872, at the age of 10 months; Anna, born December 26, 1872, who resides at home; Frank, born August 25, 1874, who continues the business founded by his father; Rose, born December 31, 1877, and Eda, born August 3, 1883, who both live at home ; Frederick, born July 19, 1884, who married Amelia Barrelsman of Putnam County, Ohio, and is a marble cutter at Delphos, and Sylvester, born March 11, 1890, who is employed in a large grocery house at Delphos. Mr. Grothouse lived to see his children well on the road to honorable independence, having afforded them all the advantages in his power. The family all belong to St. John's Catholic Church, at Delphos. Mr. Grothouse was a worthy member of 5t. Joseph's Society.

JAMES A. UNCAPHER, a prosperous resident of Van Wert County, is a prominent citizen of Ridge township where he owns a valuable farm of 80 acres located in section 35. He was born September 19, 1855, in Indiana County, Pennsylvania—which was also the birthplace of his parents, William and Sarah (Black) Uncapher—is of German descent, and inherits much of the sturdiness and thrift of the ancestral stock.

Mr. Uncapher received his schooling in Pennsylvania, and it was not until 1879 that he left that State and located in Ohio, settling in Van Wert County. He was a farmer by education and choice, and engaged in that work for some time before he purchased his presentfarm in 1884. Since that year it has been his homestead, and he derives not only a considerable income from the products of the soil, but from the four oil-wells on the farm, which have a large output of crude petroleum.

On October 6, 1883, Mr. Uncapher was married to Elizabeth F. Ireland, who was born in this county January 20, 1861; is a daughter of William D. and Martha M. (Stemen) Ireland, both natives of this State, and is a lady possessing many charms of mind and heart. Mrs. Uncapher is one of seven children now living, viz.: John S.; Mary M., wife of George H. Poe, of Hardin County; Eliza J., wife of Jacob C. Smith; Lydia A., wife of John Chamberlain, of Isabella County, Michigan; Rachel L., wife of H. S. Sanders; Christian S., of York township; and Elizabeth F., wife of our subject. To Mr. and Mrs. Uncapher five children have been born, namely : Goldie B., wife of Charles R. Downing, of Jackson township, and the mother of one child, Alta Leola ; Mattie M.; Iva B.; William A. and Elmer D. Both he and his wife are members of the Whitfield Methodist Church, of which he is trustee. Mr. Uncapher is a Republican, and was for many years a member of the School Board of Ridge township, but is now devoting his entire time to his private interests. Fraternally, he is identified with the lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Van Wert..

JOSEPH AGLER, a well known resident and prosperous farmer of Liberty township, living on a farm of 80 acres in section 19, was born in Stark County, Ohio, August 1, 1835. He is a son of Conrad and Margaret (Wagner) Agler and grandson of William Agler, who was of English descent and an old settler of Pennsylvania.

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Conrad Agler, the father, was born in Pennsylvania, but when he was about 15 years of age his parents moved to Stark County and located on a farm of 160 acres, where Conrad remained until after his marriage. He then moved to Van Wert County and purchased a farm of 80 acres in Liberty township, which he occupied until his death in 1860. He was the father of 13 children—nine girls and four boys—our subject being the youngest son.

Joseph Agler was practically reared in Van \Vert County, whither his parents moved when he was six years old. He can remember the time when this section of Ohio was all a wilderness and hears, wolves and deer were plentiful. In 1856 Mr. Agler was married to Susan Neiferd, a daughter of George and Mary Neiferd, old residents of Van Wert County, who originally came from Stark County. After his marriage Mr. Agler lived on his father's farm for several years, and in 1873 bought his present homestead of 80 acres, which is very valuable because of the discovery that there is oil under it. He has seven oil-wells on the farm, six of which are producers and now in operation.

To Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Agler were born seven children, four of whom still live, namely : Charity Ann, who married George D. Johnson, of Liberty township, and has four children—Birdie, Cary, Willis and Laura; Willis, who married Ida Walters and has nine children—Frank, Lewis, Fred, Joseph, Grace, James, Clark, Roy and Besse; Isaac, who married Louisa Voltz, lives on a part of the old farm and has seven children—Susie, Florence, Wilma, Georgia, Doral, Bertha and Leland; and Frank, who married Florence Humrickhouse, lives in Mercer County and has one child —Harold. Conrad, the eldest born, died at the age of 22; one child died shortly after birth ; Nancy, who was the wife of Alonzo Smith, left four children at her death—Bertha, Vernie, Fay and Etho. Mr. Agler and his family are all members of the United Brethren Church.

SIMON BECHTOL resides in section Hoaglin township, and occupies a place in the ranks of the representative men of Van Wert County. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, November 18, 1840, and is a son of Samuel and Catherine (Long) Bechtol. His parents were also natives of Pennsylvania, but when Simon was about four years of age they moved to Marion County, Ohio, where they remained about 10 years, coming thence to Allen County in 1854. Mr. Bechtol has a brother, Israel, and a sister, Catherine A. (Mrs. Henry Kelly), residing in Van Wert County.

Simon Bechtol attended the district schools and then engaged in farming until the spring of 1861, when he enlisted for service in Company A, First Ohio Squadron, and served one year. In August, 1862, he reenlisted in Company A, 118th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. A more fearless soldier never entered the ranks, and the many scars he carries are vivid reminders of the fierce contests in which he engaged. Among the generals under whom he fought were Burnside and Thomas, and the battles in which he participated were as follows : Mossy Creek, Buzzard's Roost, Snake Creek Gap, siege of Atlanta, siege of Knoxville, battle of Loudon, siege of Nashville, Chattanooga, Duck River; Franklin, where the contending armies met in a hand to hand fight and where Mr. Bechtol was shot through the arm and received two sabre cuts ; siege of Fort Andrew, where he was wounded by the flying fragments of a shell; and many other battles. He was close at hand when the Confederate President, Jefferson Davis, was captured, and served until

500 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

the close of the war, receiving an honorable discharge June 24, 1865. Returning to Allen County, he farmed for many years and then moved to Van Wert County, in the fall of 1888. After living in Union township about four years, he moved to the farm he now occupies in Hoaglin township.

Mr. Bechtol was married in 1862 to Sarah Furrey, native of Fairfield County, Ohio, who bore him one son, William, now deceased. On September 11, 1882, Mrs. Bechtol died and on October 21, 1883, Simon Bechtol was joined in marriage to Barbara Dias. The present Mrs. Bechtol was born November 30, 1861, in Scioto County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Richard and Mary (McElhaney) Dias, who were natives of Pennsylvania. She was reared to young womanhood in Scioto County where her father having died, her mother chose as her second husband William Ambler. When she was about 18 the family removed to Fayette County, where they lived two years before moving to Van Wert County and settling in Ridge township where her brother, William R. Dias, now lives. Another brother, John C. Dias, lives in Pleasant township. Her mother died in Union township November 9, 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtol have nine children, viz: Goldie M., wife of J. R. Jones; Sylvia F.; Mary C.; Simon H.; Samuel M.; Retta F.; John E.; Mildred R. and Gladys M. Mr. Bechtol is a Republican in politics.

ADAM BOLLENBACHER, an influential and progressive farmer living on a fine farm in section 23, Harrison township, in October, 1905, had been a resident of Van Wert County for 17 years, coming from Mercer County, Ohio, where he was born November 1, 1866. He is a son of Adam and Christina (Koch) Bollenbacher.

Our subject's father was born in Germany and was over 21 years of age when he emigrated to the United States and located in Liberty township, Mercer County, where he died in April, 1902. There all of his children, except our subject, still reside.

Adam Bollenbacher was reared on a farm and remained at home until he was nearly 22 years of age, when he came to Van Wert County and purchased the farm of 80 acres upon which he is now located. Later he added 40 acres to his original purchase and also operates the Miltenberger farm of 60 acres.

Mr. Bollenbacher was married, October 21, 1888, to Maggie Miltenberger, who was born in Van Wert County, Ohio, a daughter of William and Mary Elizabeth (Wendel) Miltenberger. They have two children : Oscar, who is attending the Van Wert High School, and Lydia, who is living at home. Mr. and Mrs. Bollenbacher are both members of, the Evangelical Church.

In 1899 Mr. Bollenbacher built his present fine, modern home and has made many other improvements on the farm. He is an up-to-date man, in every respect, possessed of exceptional business ability, and is financially interested in the National Bank of Convoy. Politically he is a Democrat and has served twice as supervisor.

M. S. CRAMER, M. D., one of the well-established and able physicians and surgeons at Ohio City, was born in Seneca County, Ohio, in 186i, and is a son of John Cramer.

The father of Dr. Cramer, moved from Seneca to Van Wert County in 1864, settling on land which he subsequently cleared and developed into a fine farm. He became a man

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of substance and prominence and lived to old age, dying in 1905, at the age of 84 years.

M. S. Cramer was two years of age when his parents located on the farm in Van Wert County, where he grew to manhood. He was afforded educational advantages in Van Wert and prior to entering Starling Medical College, taught school for five years, in the meantime making ready for his chosen profession. Dr. Cramer was graduated at the above mentioned college in 1888, and at once located at Ohio City, where he has been engaged in continuous practice for the past 18 years. He stands very high among the medical men of the State, and enjoys a large measure of popularity in his own city. For the past 16 years Dr. Cramer has served as surgeon for the Erie Railroad, during this time having had a varied and beneficial experience. He is president of the Association of Erie Railroad Surgeons. He is also examining surgeon for several reputable life insurance companies, and is examining surgeon, and for the past eight years has been president, of the local examining board of the Bureau of Pensions. Dr. Cramer was an active member of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association which has been merged into the Third and Fourth Councilor Districts of the Ohio State Medical Association, with which the Doctor is now actively identified. Dr. Frank D. Bain, of Kenton, Ohio, is the councilor for this district; the president of the council is Dr. Brooks F. Beebe, of Cincinnati.

In 1893 Dr. Cramer was married to Florence E. Runnion, who is a daughter of E. N. Runnion, who for years was a business man of Ohio City. They have two children, Donald R. and John E. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Dr. Cramer is interested in all its various benevolent enterprises. Fraternally he belongs to the Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias.

JOHN BLACK, the well-known agriculturist of Union township, whose portrait is shown on the opposite page, is a son of Matthew and Catherine Black and was born in Richland County, Ohio, November 10, 1843. Both parents were of German descent, the maternal grandparents being natives of Germany.

Matthew Black was born in Adams County, Pennsylvania, February 4, 1817, and his wife March 13, 1821, she being a native of the same locality. It was not until they had both moved to Richland County, Ohio, that they became acquainted, and there they passed the first few years of their married life. In 1842, the husband came to Van Wert County and entered 80 acres of land—40 in Union and 40 in Hoaglin township. In 1848 he moved his family to this farm and, by later purchase, added a tract of 160 acres. At the time of his death, February 12, 1872, he had about 50 acres cleared, most of the present improvements having been made by his sons. There were six children in the family, viz. : John; Adam; Elizabeth, wife of Charles Mohr, Jr.; George, who died at the age of 16 years; Henry; and Sarah, wife of Samuel Albright, of Putnam County, Ohio.

Matthew Black was a man whose honor and integrity were above question, and won him general confidence and esteem. Being a poor man, he worked in a sawmill in Richland County until he had saved sufficient money to enter his original land and bring his family here, but at his death he left a substantial estate and, of even greater value, the rich legacy of in honored name. At different times he served is township trustee and held a number of minor offices. In politics he was a Republican and a strong anti-slavery man, having been reared )y a Whig stepfather, his own father having lied before his birth. He was a devoted mem-

504 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

ber of the new school Lutheran Church, and aided materially in its support. His wife survived him many years, passing away January; 30, 1902.

John Black has been a hard working man, spending his time in farming and in the line of carpentry, having been a resident of Union township since his fifth year. As the other children grew up and left the old home, it fell to his lot to take care of his aged mother, and it was with pleasure that he tended her declining years. Mr. Black was made the administrator of his father's estate, and the handsome residence was built under his supervision. He now owns 120 acres of land in section 1, Union township, and is a first-class farmer in every respect. Mr. Black is a Republican and was at one time supervisor of the roads in this district; also served as school director for several years. He is trustee and secretary of the Evangelical Church Association in .Hoaglin township, and has been the efficient superintendent of the Sunday-school several times, Fraternally, he belongs to Tribe No. 102, I. O. R. M., at Scott, and is a man whose sterling worth brings him the esteem of his friends and of the community at large.

GEORGE C. YOH, one of the leading men and successful agriculturists of township, who resides on his fine farm of 70 acres, located in section 9, was born in Van Wert County, Ohio, December 15, 1857, and is a son of Jacob and Sarah (Plank) Yoh.

The parents of Mr. Yoh were natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Ohio at a very early day, and settled in Seneca County, where they resided for a number of years. In 1852 they removed to Van Wert County andlocated in Hoaglin township, where both subsequently passed away. They were among the most highly respected residents here, worthy and consistent members of the Grand Victory Evangelical Church.

George C. Yoh was reared in Hoaglin township and attended the district schools in the neighborhood of his home. He was reared to farm life, and agricultural pursuits have claimed his attention ever since. He is a man of progressive ideas, and carries on his large agricultural operations with the assistance of modern machinery and according to modern methods.

On December 14, 1879, Mr. Yoh was united in marriage with Hannah Snyder, who was born January 26, 1863, in Hocking County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Daniel and Mary (Stabaugh) Snyder, the latter of whom died when Mrs. Yoh was a child of five years. Her father now resides in Mercer County, where he moved in Mrs. Yoh's childhood, and where she grew to marriageable age. Mr. and Mrs. Yoh have had five children, namely : Ansel M., born December 2, 1880; Mertie M., born May 17, 1883; Mary Leotie, born October 20, 1885; Zelma A., born August 20, 1887; and George W., born July 18, 1898. Mertie M. died August 1, 1893, aged 10 years. The other members of the family are all at home with the exception of Zelma A., who is the wife of Roy Baker, of Hoaglin township; and Ansel M., who married Ina Busick, and resides at Grover Hill, Ohio.

In politics Mr. Yoh is an active Republican, and he takes considerable interest in public matters, as becomes a good and intelligent citizen. He is a member of Alpha Lodge, No. 1, Home Guards of America, a beneficiary organization which has many members in Ohio. Both he and his wife belong to the Grand Victory Evangelical Church, of which

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he is one of the stewards and a liberal supporter. Mrs. Yoh belongs to the Ladies' Aid Society of this church.

MARTIN WISE has been closely identified with the history of Van Wert County for the past 33 years, during which time he has been located on his farm, which originally comprised 80 acres in section 9, Jackson township. To this property 40 acres were added sortie time ago. A man of strong character, he has been a powerful factor in the township and has exerted a beneficent influence on those among whom he has lived. He has taken great pleasure in the steady growth and prosperity of the county to which he has largely contributed. Mr. Wise was born February 27, 1845, in Erie County, New York, his parents being George and Saloma (Gerhard) Wise, who were born in Baden, Germany, and there married. Coming to America shortly before the birth of our subject, they settled in Erie County, New York, where the father died before Martin had reached his loth year.

Leaving New York, Martin Wise came to Ohio, and for several years made his home with his brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Krouse, of Putnam County. When old enough to do for himself, he secured employment on the Miami and Erie Canal in Ohio, and was so employed for 12 years. While living in Putnam County, he was married to Susan Harpster of that county, by whom he had one child, Sarah E., since deceased. His second union was with Elizabeth C. Leatherman, to whom he was married October 31, 1875. The present Mrs. Wise is a native of Allen County, Ohio, born September 28, 1855, and is a daughter of Danieland Mary A. (Allstetter) Leatherman. Her father, now deceased, was a native of Allen County, Ohio, and her mother, who now resides in Paulding County, was a native of Germany, where she was born April 9, 1827. Mrs. Wise was one of 12 children, seven of whom are living, viz.: Matilda, wife of George Butler, of Putnam County; Jacob E., of Paulding County; Elizabeth C. (Mrs. Wise) ; Peter, of Paulding County; Louisa J., wife of Noah Myers, of Paulding County; Sarah A., wife of Marion Ayers, of Paulding County; and William, who lives in Illinois.

Six children have been born to our subject and his estimable wife, namely : John, who lives in Paulding County; Laura, wife of Walter Spraw, of Paulding County; Florence, a teacher in the Ohio City public schools ; George, deceased; Charles C., who is at home, as is David M. Mr. Wise was an efficient trustee of Jackson township for a period of seven years, and is at present a director of school district NQ. 1. Mr. and Mrs. Wise are valued members of the Christian Union Church. Mr. Wise is a prominent member of Hope Lodge, No. 214, F. & A. M., at Delphos. He is a Democrat in politics.

MATHIAS FISCHER, whose death occurred April 11, 1895, was one of the highly respected men and successful farmers of Washington township, where he owned a fine farm of 80 acres, situated in section 36. Mr. Fischer was born in Hanover, Germany, November 11, 1844, and was a son of Henry Fischer, who died in Germany.

Throughout his boyhood Mathias Fischer attended school in Germany, and when he attained the legal age entered the army to serve as the German law requires, but when there

506 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

was a probability that he would be sent on military service to Prussia he decided to emigrate to the United States. At this time he was 25 years of age. Landing in the port of New York, he soon made his way to Delphos, Ohio, where he found remunerative work in a stave factory. Being industrious and temperate, he soon acquired some capital, which he increased during a year's residence with an uncle at Landeck, and then returned to Delphos. Subsequently he purchased the farm which his widow still occupies, making many substantial improvements upon it and developing it into a valuable property.

On September 7, 1871, Mr. Fischer was united in marriage with Elizabeth Wegesin, a daughter of Herman and Gertrude (Baumgarten) Wegesin, who were born in Germany and married at Delphos. The father died in 1884, but the aged mother still survives and lives with Mrs. Fischer.

Mr. and Mrs. Mathias Fischer had six children, namely : Kate, who married Fred Gorman and lives at Fort Wayne, Indiana; Henry, living at home; Frank; Rosa, Benjamin and Anna. The last named entered the convent at Cleveland, Ohio, as a member of that noble Christian community, the Sisters of Charity, and bore the name of Sister Mary Frederica. Her beautiful life came to a close on March 28, 1899. All the family belong to St. John's Catholic Church at Delphos, and Mr. Fischer himself was a member of St. Joseph's Society.

SOLOMON PUTMAN, one of the repprestative men and substantial farmers of Liberty township. resides on his fine farm in section 32. With his wife he owns 158 acres, 80 of which are in the home place and 78 in section 31. Mr. Putman was born in Dublin township, Mercer County, Ohio, March 11, 1858, and is a son of Isaac and Sophia (Mihm) Putman.

Peter Putman, the grandfather of our subject, was one of the pioneers who settled at a very early day in Van Wert County. Here he reared his family and died. Isaac Putman was a successful farmer in Mercer County.

Solomon Putman was reared in Mercer County and there went to school. In 1880 he was united in marriage with Mary D. Brubaker, who is a daughter of the late Peter Brubaker and a sister of Naaman Brubaker, of whom an extended sketch will be found in this work. Peter Brubaker married Catherine Dull of Lafayette County, Pennsylvania; they had a family of 10 children. In December, 1850, Mr. and Mrs. Putman moved to their present home in Liberty township. This land at the time belonged to the late Peter Brubaker. At his death Mrs. Putman inherited 73 acres of the land, as did also, her sister, Mrs. Nettie Smith. Mr. Putman bought Mrs. Smith's inheritance, and later purchased 12 acres from his brother-in-law, Naaman Brubaker, and now possesses a very fine farm. He has made many improvements here, among which may be mentioned his large frame house, a very comfortable and attractive residence, which he built in the fall of 1899.

Mr. and Mrs. Putman have nine children, as follows : Bertha, who married Peter Shindelecker and resides in Indiana; Peter, who married Gertrude Williams, a daughter of Wallace N. Williams and resides in Liberty township—they have one son, . Stanley; and Isaac B., Curtis, Naaman B., Ellen May, Arthur B., Sherman B. and Edgar B., all at home.

Mr. Putman is very well-known through Liberty township, and very highly respected. He served one term as township trustee, retir-

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ing from office on January r, i906, and for seven years was a member of the School Board of Education. He belongs to the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

ENOCH M. HOAGLIN. Among the old and honorable family names of

Hoaglin township, none is more justly held in esteem than that of Hoaglin, which is preserved in the township's name. The late Enoch M. Hoaglin was a worthy member of this family which has been identified so many years with the northern section of the county. He was born in Richland County, Ohio, March 20, 1836, and died in Van Wert County, December 19, 1903. He was a son of Enoch Hoaglin.

The father was one of the pioneer teachers of Hoaglin township, and for a number of years taught in various parts of the township, also serving at one time as a justice of the peace. His log cabin was a meeting place not only for judicial functions, but was the center of social life and also the scene of the first religious exercises ever held here. He lived on the banks of Hoaglin Creek, also named in his honor, and died at an advanced age, some years since, at Middlepoint, Ohio.

Enoch M. Hoaglin was five years old when in 1841, he accompanied his parents to Van Wert County, where he was reared amid pioneer conditions. He attended school in the little log structure built for this purpose, in his district, and had advantages superior to those enjoyed by many others, on account of his father being an unusually well-informed man. Even so he had not the advantages afforded the youth of the present; but that fact did not interfere with his becoming an intelligent, well-balanced man, whose advice and judgment were frequently consulted by his fellow-citizens in later life. He was a practical farmer and, at the time of his death, was able to leave a large estate to his family.

On December 1, 1853, Mr. Hoaglin was married to Elizabeth Holtrey, who was born December 17, 1835, in Licking County, Ohio, and is a daughter of John and Eliza (Roahn) Holtrey. Her parents were natives of Pennsylvania, Mrs. Hoaglin being 13 years old when they moved from Licking to Van Wert County, Ohio, and settled in Hoaglin township, as one of its pioneer families.

The children born to Enoch M. Hoaglin and wife were eight in number and seven of these still survive, viz.: Eliza M. (Mrs. James Fife) and Elverta (Mrs. John Rank), both of Union township ; Mary E. (Mrs. Albert Fife), McClellan C., Emma (Mrs. Milton J. Coil) and Adelia M. (Mrs. Samuel Mohr)—all four residing in Hoaglin township ; and John W., who resides with his mother in the township named. George W. is deceased. Mrs. Hoaglin owns the well-improved farm of 100 acres, left by her husband, upon which she has spent a large part of her life, bravely facing the many pioneer hardships of her earlier years and still residing there as one of the township's most highly esteemed ladies.

The late Enoch M. Hoaglin was a man of the highest integrity and was frequently urged to accept public office. In politics he was a Democrat. For some years he was a trustee of the township and an esteemed member of the Hoaglin Grange. In religious belief he was a Methodist, but, on account of the long distance to the church of his membership, during the last few years of his life he worshiped with the Evangelical Church, known as the Grand Victory. It is not too much to say that the late Mr. Hoaglin was respected by all who

510 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

knew him, for he was one of the finest types of a good citizen and honorable man that ever resided in this section. A picture of the Hoaglin family accompanies this sketch.

JOHN C. RANK, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser, whose homestead is located in section 14, Union township, was born July 5, 1857, on the farm upon which he now resides, and is widely and favorable known throughout this entire section. He is a son of Samuel and Mary (Koser) Rank, natives of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, who were the parents of 10 children, viz.: Elizabeth (Coffey), Sarah (Dice), George W., and Lida (Calhoun) all deceased; Jennie (Barr), of Van Wert; Kate (Kannel), deceased; Jacob, of Van Wert; Maggie (Beck), of Union township; Samuel, of Van Wert; and John C. In 1863 the father dropped dead while going for a load of hay in his field, dying at the age of 56 years, his wife surviving him until 1895, when she passed away at the age of 82 years.

John C. Rank has always given his attention to farming and is one of the leading agriculturists of Van Wert County. In addition to operating his own tract of 56 acres, he also cultivates the adjoining farm of his brother and raises considerable stock in connection with his general farming. He has a well-improved place with new house, barns and other out-buildings, and is a progressive man who believes in using modern methods.

John C. Rank was married in 1879 to Cynthia Alberta Hoaglin, of Hoaglin township, and a daughter of Enoch M. and Elizabeth Hoaglin. They are the parents of four children, namely: A. Theodore, a physician; Bertha, who died at the age of six years: Omah; and John E. The younger children are in school, John E. being a student in the Van Wert High School.

After graduating from the common schools, A. Theodore Rank, oldest child of our subject, taught a number of years before entering the Ohio Northern University, at Ada, where he remained two terms. He graduated from the Tri-State Normal College, at Angola, Indiana; spent three years in the Cincinnati Medical College, and then went to West Virginia, where he successfully passed the State medical examination and practiced for one year. Returning to Cincinnati, he reentered the college, and then took the complete four years' course, which he completed in May, 1906. Dr. Rank' married Florence Kimmel, a former teacher in the Van Wert High School, and has one child—Fred Theodore, born March 20, 1905.

John C. Rank is a Democrat in politics (although voted for Roosevelt for President) and was school director many years. He is a member of North Union Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has been class leader for 25 years and chorister for 30 years. Fraternally he is a member of the Royal Arcanum lodge at Van Wert.

JOHN P. SHARKEY, superintendent of the schools of Van Wert County, and one of the well-known educators of the State, was born in Virginia, March 25, 1857, being a son of Gideon and Mary (Malory) Sharkey. The father of Mr. Sharkey was a contractor and a millwright during his active years and is still living at the advanced age of 90 years, the father of three children.

John P. Sharkey was reared in Virginia,

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received, a liberal education, and for more than 22 years has followed the profession of teacher. For 12 years he was superintendent of the schools of Eaton, Ohio, following a period as principal of the Shandon High School, in Butler County. In 1898 he was invited to become superintendent of the schools of Van Wert County, and has filled that honorable office for the past seven years. He has under his charge some 36 teachers and 1,600 pupils, and the improvement shown in the educational work of the county since he became head of the system speaks well for the permanent benefits of his administration. In educational circles he is well known in every part of the State and is a member of the State Board of School Examiners.

Mr. Sharkey was united in marriage with Laura Ressler, who is a daughter of Henry Ressler, and they have three children : Clare G., a constructing engineer, located at Dayton, Ohio; Lucile, a student in the Ohio State University; and Katherine Elizabeth, who is still at home. The family belong to the Presbyterian Church, and their pleasant, hospitable home is situated at No. 295 South Cherry street, Van Wert. In political sentiment Mr. Sharkey is a Republican. Fraternally he is a Mason and a Knight of Pythias.

A. J. BAUGHER, who for several years has successfully conducted a blacksmith shop at Ohio City, was born in Hancock County, Ohio, in 1867, and is a son of Joseph Baugher, who was a well-known farmer of Mercer County.

When only 11 years of age, Mr. Baugher's parents moved to Mercer County, where he was reared. He was educated in its common schools, and early in life learned the blacksmith's trade at Rockford, remaining there two and a half years, and afterward working at Chattanooga, Ohio, Celina and St. Marys. On May 20, 1902, he removed to Ohio City and engaged in business for himself, at that time opening his present shop, where he does general blacksmithing and repairing. He is an expert at horseshoeing and has a large patronage.

A. J. Baugher was married, in 1892, to Sarah Gorham of St. Marys. They are the owners of a pleasant home in Ohio City. Mr. Baugher is a member of the Woodmen of the World, Knights of the Maccabees and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, lodge and encampment.

JOHN JARVIS JONES, a retired resident of Venedocia, has been identified with Van Wert County since the days when dense woods covered a large portion of it, and game and wild birds were plentiful where now stand substantial buildings, cultivated farms and villages, all connected by rapid lines of transportation. Mr. Jones was born in the parish of Pennant, North Wales, May 26, 1826, and is a son of John and Catherine (Jarvis) Jones. His parents were natives of Montgomeryshire, North Wales, and of their six children, the following survive: John Jarvis, the eldest born; Margaret (Richards), who lives in Montgomeryshire; and Evan, a noted divine, who resides in Caernarvonshire, Wales.

It has been often remarked that an illiterate Welshman is rare, the school laws of Wales making it almost impossible for her sturdy sons to leave her shores in the shadows of ignorance. Being a young man of native intelligence, John J. Jones was especially well educated prior to coming to America. Arriv-

512 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

ing at the port of New York in June, 1851, after a trip of seven weeks, the sailing vessel "Guy Mannering" safely deposited in the first city of America its mixed human freight of 1,000 individuals, composed of English, German, Irish, Scotch and Welsh immigrants. Mr. Jones was one of these. He made his way from New York to Cincinnati, adding to his capital by working in a boiler shop in the latter city, until he had learned that better opportunities awaited those willing to labor, in Van Wert County. When he arrived, there was but a single house standing between Spencerville and Jennings Prairie. The forests still harbored bears, wolves and deer; there were plenty of squirrels and turkeys, and, as Mr. Jones humorously expressed it, "concerts were given by the blackbirds in one swamp, which were equaled by the frogs in another." Mr. Jones found plenty of hard, physical labor here, assisting settlers in clearing the land, in grubbing out the roots of forest giants and in building the early log cabins. He became almost an expert in the making of corduroy roads—those necessities in a wet and swampy section, which have long since been displaced by gravel and rubble, while drainage has redeemed the land. For work of this kind Mr. Jones received $13 a month and he continued to perform it for four years.

In 1857 Mr. Jones visited Iowa, but in 1860 returned to Van Wert, where he engaged to work by the year; but on August 19, 1862, at Delphos, he entered the Union service, enlisting at Delphos, in Company F, 118th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and serving under Generals Doyle, Burnside, Judah and Scofield. The 118th Ohio was attached. to the Army of the Cumberland. He participated in a number of battles, notably those of Moose Creek, Kingston, Franklin and Nashville, the various engagements aggregating 24. At Knoxville, Tennessee, he was confined for six weeks in a hospital, and on account of disabilities, resulting from his three years of hard service, receives a pension of $24 per month.

Mr. Jones is an independent thinker, both in politics and religion. He is a good American citizen, although not born on American soil, and believes in giving practical support to statesmen whose actions prove that they have the best interests of the country at heart. He expresses admiration for the character of such men as Abraham Lincoln, Grover Cleveland and Theodore Roosevelt. During his residence in Venedocia Mr. Jones has accumulated considerable valuable property and has done considerable building here. Through his just philanthropy, he has made it possible for many people to obtain comfortable homes without being burdened by embarrassing debts or heavy interest. He stands very high in public esteem and possibly is as well known as any other resident of the village, being a man of wide reading and enlightened views. Mr. Jones is unmarried.

JOHN WILLARD SWITZER, a trustee of Liberty township and one of the most prominent young farmers of the section, owner of a valuable farm of 40 acres in section 16, was born in this township, February 20, 1877. He is a son of John A. and Mary Jane (Morehead) Switzer, both of whom are still living and residing in Liberty township.

John A. Switzer, the father, is a son of Frederick Switzer, of German birth, who came to America and spent the greater portion of his life here. John A. Switzer was born in Fostoria, Ohio, where he was reared and educated. At the age of 18 years he enlisted in the vol-

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unteer service of his State: He served throughout the entire Civil war, at the close of which he came to Van Wert County, where he was married and raised a family of 11 children, of whom John Willard was the fifth in order of birth.

John Willard Switzer has spent his entire life in his native county, and here received a common-school education. On March 3, 1893, he was united in marriage with Lillian Everett who is a daughter of Thomas and Mahala Everett. Her grandfather was a native of New York State, but later moved to Allen County, Ohio, where he died at the age of 45 when his son Thomas was but nine years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Switzer have one son and one daughter—Dean and Wanda.

Mr. Switzer has always been engaged in agriculture, and his farm, besides being well improved, is otherwise a very valuable piece of land, four producing oil-wells upon it being kept in operation. Mr. Switzer is a man of enterprise and public spirit, and in the fall of 1904 was elected township trustee by the Republican party, his term of service being for three years. He is a member and one of the first officers of the lodge of the Fraternal Order of Eagles at Ohio City, which was recently organized.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN POLLOCK, for many years one of the most successful farmers of Washington township, who owns and operates a fine productive farm of 42 acres in section 31, was born on a farm adjoining his present home, in Jennings township, Van Wert County, Ohio, and is the oldest son of Asa and Mary (Leathers) Pollock.

Asa Pollock was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1823. When he was 13 years ofage his parents, Thomas and Elizabeth Pollock, settled in Ridge township, Van Wert County, just across the road from the present home of our subject. Thomas Pollock, the grandfather, was one of the pioneer settlers of Van Wert County, and at one time owned 1,000 acres of land. Mr. and Mrs. Asa Pollock had 11 children, all but two of whom are living, the family record being as follows : John, who died aged 18 months; Alfretta, wife of Jacob Turner, of Van Wert; Vesta Ellen, who married Jacob M. Dibert and lives in York township; Abraham L., subject of this sketch; Allen B., of York township; Catherine E., who married J. B. Wilcox, of Delphos; Hugh Grant, who lives in Middlepoint and is the manager of the Pollock Grain & Elevator Company; Louis Otto, of Cumberland, Iowa; William H., who resides on the old homestead in Jennings township; Jesse L., also living on the home place, and Charles, who died in infancy. Mrs. Asa Pollock, who lives in the old home in Jennings township, is a daughter of Christian Leathers, who came to this county from Fairfield County, Ohio, at a very early day.

Abraham L. Pollock was reared and received his education in Van Wert County, being married (first) to Clara Ziegler, daughter of Noah and Elizabeth Ziegler, of York township. They had two children—Myrtle, who died June 19, 1901, aged 16 years; and Russell. Mrs. Clara Pollock died November 26, 1900. Mr. Pollock's second marriage was on March 8, 1902, to Ethel Van Tilburg, of Hartford City, Indiana. They had two children—John, born February 12, 1903, and Eugene, born July 29, 1904. Mrs. Ethel Pollock died March 28, 1905.

In 1899 Mr. Pollock erected a large frame house, a decided addition to the value of the farm, which, in improvements and develop-

514 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

ment, compares favorably with any in the township. He is also a member of the firm which operates the Pollock Grain & Elevator Company, previously mentioned. Religiously, Mr. Pollock is a member of the Ridge Methodist Episcopal Church and for three years was one of the deacons of that organization.

CHARLES DAVIS, a farmer of Ridge township, the owner of 80 acres of land in section 25, was born in St. Marys, Ohio, November 16, 1845, and is a son of John and Sophia (Benner) Davis. The father came from Hocking County to Van Wert County at an early day. He enlisted from this county for service in the Civil war and while in the army contracted the measles, from which he died at Bowling Green, Kentucky, in 1861.

Charles Davis attended school until his 15th year, when he began working on the farm. On October 3, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, 47th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was in the 15th Army Corps under Gen. John A. Logan, with General Sherman, commander-in-chief. He took part in the fight at Fort McAllister, Georgia, and started with Sherman in the march to the sea, but was taken ill at Raleigh, North Carolina, and was sent to Chestnut Hill Hospital, Philadelphia, where he was honorably discharged June 15, 1865. Taking up the life of a private citizen once more, he engaged in farming in Washington township until 1877, when he purchased his present farm upon which he has since resided.

Mr. Davis was married February 11, 1868, to Mary J. Hire, daughter of Jeremiah Hire, deceased, and a well-known resident of Washington township for many years. Two children have been born to this worthy couple : Sylvester S.; and Minnie C. S., the wife of L. A. Price, formerly of Mercer County, Ohio, now of Ridge township, Van Wert County. Sylvester S. Davis was a young man of excellent character and integrity. He was married to Hannah L. Faucett of Washington township, by whom he had one son, Eugene, who lives in Middlepoint with his mother. Sylvester S. Davis died August 15, 1904, cut down in the prime of manhood, but he left behind him the heritage of a good and noble name and the love and esteem of all who knew him. Mrs. Davis died September 29, 1904. Mr. Davis is a member of the G. A. R. post at Middlepoint, of which he is past commander. He is also a member of the tent of the Improved Order of Red Men at that place and also belongs to the Society of Friends.

JAMES W. RUMBLE, an influential farmer of Van Wert County and a trustee of Hoaglin township, resides on a farm of 80 acres in section 8, which he purchased about five years ago. He was born January 8, 1868, in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, his parents, Henry and Paulina (Leech) Rumble, being also natives of that State.

Henry Rumble was of German stock. In 1876 he left Pennsylvania with his family, and for a time was located in Allen County, Ohio, coming thence to Van Wert County and settling in Hoaglin township. Here he took an active part in all that pertained to the advancement of the general public, serving as commissioner of Van Wert County at one time, and for a number of years filling the office of justice of the peace in a fearless and praiseworthy manner. Squire Rumble, as he is affectionately known by his friends, is now in his 80th year, and has resided in Van Wert for

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several years. His children are Bruce W., of Ironton, Ohio; Annie B. (Mrs. P. F. Remagen) ; Alexander C., of California; Susan (Mrs. C. H. Hymen) ; and James W. Mr. Rumble has long been a supporter of Republican principles.

James W. Rumble farms because he likes the work, and his land shows the result of the care and thought expended in its cultivation. He is a lover of fine horses and a breeder of standard bred roadsters—horses that will compare favorably with any in the county. Mr. Rumble was married in January 10, 1889, to Lydia E. Mohr, daughter of Gottlieb and Sarah A. (Snearly) Mohr, highly-respected residents of Hoaglin township. Gottlieb Mohr is a native of Germany, while his wife was born in Ohio. He is a stalwart Republican, and for a number of terms was treasurer of the township. His surviving children are as follows : Edward G., of Union township ; Susie M., wife of William M. Hoaglin, of Cavett; Cassie S., wife of George A. Foust, of Hoaglin township; Lydia E., wife of Mr. Rumble; Alta f., wife of Wilbur Moon, of Paulding County, Ohio; Hattie, wife of Jambes Cavanaugh, of Cavett; and Walter J., of Hoaglin township. Six children have blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Rumble, namely : Dale E., Nellie G., G. Bruce, Frank H., Sarah L. and Harriet A. They are members of the Evangelical Association and of the Home Guards of America, and count their friends by the score.

CHARLES L. LEHMANN, a well-known farmer, fruit grower and bee raiser, of Washington township, who lives on his valuable farm of 160 acres, 80 acres of which are situated in section 16 and the remainder in section 9, was born in Charloe, Paulding County, Ohio, June 18, 1844, and is a son of Gabriel and Anna Elizabeth (Bockman) Lehmann.

Gabriel Lehmann was born in Baden, Germany, March 19, 1819, and was the son of Leopold Lehmann, who was also a native of Germany and was a soldier under Napoleon in Spain, when only 15 years of age. Gabriel Lehmann came to America in 1830 with his parents, who located first in Columbus, Ohio, where he completed his education. Later he and his father moved to Sandusky, Ohio; his mother having died during their first year in Columbus. He was married in Paulding County, to Anna Elizabeth Bochman, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Bochman, who were natives of Germany, where her father died when she was but five years old. Mrs. Lehmann was also born in Germany. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Lehmann moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana, one year later returning to Paulding County. In 1845 they located at Delphos, making the trip in one of the first boats that run on the canal, and here they lived until 1860, when they purchased their present farm, being among the first of the pioneer settlers. During the Civil War Mr. Lehmann was a member of the 55th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., and was with Sherman on his famous march from "Atlanta to the Sea." Mr. and Mrs. Lehmann had four children, but two of whom still live, namely : Henry G., who resides in Van Wert and is married, who was a soldier in the Civil War, serving for four years in the 32nd Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., under Grant; and Charles L., of this sketch. Fredrick died in 1876 aged 30 years, and Matilda passed away at the age of 27 years. Gabriel Lehmann, the father of the family, died February 28, 1879.

Charles L. Lehmann has lived in Van Wert County since he was a child one year of

518 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

age, receiving his early educational training in the schools of Delphos. He has never married and lives with his widowed mother, who is a respected member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Lehmann is an extensive fruit grower, and has a fine orchard of about 10 acres of apples, peaches, pears, cherries and plums. He also makes a specialty of bee raising and has over 100 hives of bees, selling considerable honey in Delphos, Van Wert and Middlepoint. His portrait accompanies this sketch.

GEORGE D. JOHNSON, one of the enterprising farmers of Liberty township, living on a farm of 80 acres in section 19, was born in Willshire township, Van Wert County, Ohio, August 11, 1855, and is a son of Elias and Gemima (Dimmett) Johnson.

The father was born in Pennsylvania, and was reared, educated and married in that State, moving to Van Wert County in the early '40's. There he entered a farm of 640 acres, mostly wilderness and much prairie. He first built a round-log house for the family to occupy and then entered upon the task of clearing the timberland. He placed a large part of it under cultivation, under his good management the property being converted into one of the best farms in the township. Elias Johnson's wife died when our subject was about two years of age, and in 1861 he married Elizabeth Leslie, who passed away just four weeks after their union at the age of 51 years.

After the death of his father, George D. Johnson, made his home with his brother Benjamin until he was about nine years of age, when he went to live with his aunt, Mrs. Mary Johnson. In 1876 he was married to Charity Ann Agler, a (laughter of Joseph Agler, asketch of whom will be found in this work. Mr. and Mrs. George D. Johnson have four children, namely—Birdie, who married Benjamin Dull, lives in Glenmore, Van Wert County, and is the mother of five children; Cary, who married Mollie Miller, also resides in Glenmore, and has one child; and Willis, and Laura, who both live at home.

Mr. Johnson inherited a farm of I19 acres from his father, operating it until 1882, when he sold it and purchased the farm of 80 acres where he now lives. Mr. Johnson is a member of the United Brethren Church, and fraternally is connected with the I. O. O. F.

GEORGE LEMUEL SINIFF, a well-known citizen of Liberty township, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits on his farm of 47 acres situated in section 21, and who for a number of years has been an instructor in various schools of this county, is a native of Ohio, having been born November 10, 1862, in Dublin township, Mercer County. He is a son of George L. and Hannah (Anderson) Siniff, and grandson of John Siniff, who was one of the pioneers of Mercer County.

George L. Siniff was reared in that county and received his early education in the common schools of Dublin township, later taking a course at the normal schools of Middlepoint and Ada, Ohio. In 1885 he was united in marriage with Martha Holzer, who is a daughter of Christian Holzer, and their four . children are : Ocie, Anna, Raleigh and Dale. Mr. Siniff and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

After his marriage Mr. Siniff remained but one year in Mercer County, in 1886 moving just across the line from that county into

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Liberty township, Van Wert County, where he spent the following eight years, subsequently moving to Ohio City, where he was an instructor in the schools for nine years. In 1903 he purchased his present farm of 47 acres, upon which he moved, being both engaged in teaching (at the Dull school) and interested in general farming. The large frame house which the family now occupy was erected in 1903, and many other needed improvements have been made upon the place.

LEWIS W. ROGERS, who owns and cultivates a farm of 95 acres in section 6, Hoaglin township, is a native of Morrow County, Ohio, where he was born December 12, 1853. His parents were Rev. William H. and Mary (Curtis) Rogers.

Rev. William H. Rogers was born in Pennsylvania, but was little more than a boy when he located in Morrow County, in after life being known as a teacher and a local minister of the United Brethren Church. In politics he was a Republican, and loyal to his convictions in that field, as in all others. By his marriage to Mary Curtis, a native of Ohio, he had the following 13 children (11 of whom are living and mostly residents of Morrow County : Eliza J., widow of Abraham ' Hardman; Moses C. ; John H., who resides in Michigan ; Abigail, wife of G. W. Squibb, of Scott; Levi; Mary A., wife of G. W. Kightlinger; James F., of Scott; Lewis W.; Daniel S., of Missouri ; Deborah, wife of John Christy; Enoch ; and Obed and William H., both deceased. Three of these sons were in the Civil War; Moses and John serving during the entire struggle and Obed giving his life to the Union cause. The father died December 28, 1883, leaving the record of a noble, useful life and good name, as a rich heritage.

During his boyhood Lewis W. Rogers attended the public schools and then engaged in farming in Morrow County until 1879, when he came to Van Wert County and three years later bought his present farm. He was married May 6, 1880, to Elizabeth Jenkins, who was born February 6, 1858, in Fayette County, Ohio, which was also the birthplace of her parents, Andrew J. and Melinda (Flax) Jenkins. Her maternal grandfather, John Flax, still resides there and has passed the 94th milestone in life's journey. In 1865 Mr. Jenkins came with his family to Van Wert County, for a number of years residing in Pleasant township and later in Union township, where Elizabeth Jenkins and Lewis Rogers were married. Subsequently, they moved to Paulding County, where they still reside, the parents of five children—Roy A., Ray B., May, Mabel and Cleo. Mr. Rogers is a Republican voter, but not a politician. He takes a deep interest in all that pertains to agriculture, and was formerly a member of Prairie Creek Grange, Patrons of Husbandry.

MRS. HARRIET WEAVER, a well-known and highly esteemed resident of Pleasant township, who owns a well cultivated farm of 80 acres. located in section 33, is the widow of the late Charles L. Weaver. She was born in Coschocton County, Ohio, April 18, 1848, Ind is a daughter of Michael and Margaret (Albert) Born.

The parents of Mrs. Weaver were both born in Pennsylvania. When she was five tears old they removed from Coschocton to Mercer County, Ohio, and there she was eared to young womanhood, obtaining her

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education in the district schools. After her first marriage, in 1866, she removed with her husband to Wisconsin, where she lived until his death, when, with her children, she returned to Mercer County, Ohio. After her second marriage, in 1877, she came to Van Wert County, and in 1878 she and her husband settled on the farm which she now owns. It is a valuable, well-cultivated piece of property, and under Mrs. Weaver's excellent management is very productive. She carries on general farming.

On October 11, 1866, our subject was married, first, to George W. Fisher, who was born in Ohio and died in Wisconsin, leaving three children, namely : Euphemia, wife of Cyrus M. Uhrich, a resident of Des Arc, Arkansas; Lewis; of Harrison township; and George M., of Ohio City. On August 17, 1877, she was married, second, to Charles L. Weaver, who died July 9, 1884, leaving three children, namely : Catherine J., wife of H. A. Winkler, of Mercer County; and James L. and John C., of Pleasant township.

THADDEUS STEPHENS GILLILAND of whom a complete biography would be also a history relating to the leading events of the central part of Van Wert County, during the last 70 years, was born about four miles from Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania, October 27, 1834. His parents, James Gordon Gilliland and Margaret (Lawson) Gilliland, moved to Van Wert County in July,
1835, before the subject of this biography was a year old. They settled in Ridge township
three miles east of Van Wert, on what is now known as the Ridge road. Their nearest neighbors were 15 miles distant, with the exception of two families that had come a few days previous and had not yet built cabins, but were living in camps covered with bark from the linden or basswood tree (then commonly called "linn") and open in front.

The family, consisting of the parents and three children came from Pennsylvania in a two-horse wagon as far as Bucyrus. There the father traded one of the horses for a yoke of oxen, and soon found that one of them had what was then called the "trembles" (milk sickness) and when over-heated would fall down and shake like a person having the ague.

After reaching his land, the father and his brother Adam cut small logs such as four men could raise and then called upon his two neighbors, named Hill and Mark to help raise the house. Thus he had the first house in Ridge township. It had only one room but made a comfortable home. The glass and sash had been brought from Bucyrus. The roof was of clapboards split out of oak timber and held in place by weight poles—poles laid on so that by their weight they would hold down the clapboards. The door was made of clapboards shaved. The door lock was a latch made of wood that of its own weight dropped into a notch in a piece of wood at the side of the door, and this formed a bolt which in the daytime was worked with a string passed through a hole in the door ; to lock the door all you had to do was to go inside and pull in the string. From this originated the saying "you will find the latch string out," which was always true in those times. All comers were welcomed with rare exceptions.

We will let the subject of this sketch tell in his own words some of the incidents of his life : "I recollect once or twice when the latch string was pulled in—that was when some drunken Indians wanted in. One incident of this nature is particularly fresh in my mem

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cry : My sister next older than I and myself had each taken a tin of bread and milk and gone back of the house to eat our breakfasts. We heard some Indians coming and when they stopped we went around to see them; one had fallen off his pony and the other was trying to get him to his feet. As soon as we saw that they were drunk, we ran for the door but the string had been pulled in and we were locked out, and the drunken Indians were near us. We first went back of the house, but for fear they would come to the back window we went back farther to a brush heap about 10 rods from the house and secreted ourselves where we finished our breakfasts and waited until we heard the Indians leave. They wanted to trade a cake of homemade sugar for their breakfasts, but as father was not at home mother would not let them in. They would take a bite off the sugar to show that it was not poison and then offer it. Had they been sober, they would have gotten their breakfasts free, as Indians were never turned away either day or night if sober. But the sugar would not have been taken in exchange for anything, as this particular lot of sugar was not appetizing.

"An Indian by the name of Half John was a frequent visitor at our house; his hair was so long that it would touch the chair when he sat down. I used to slip up and pull his hair and then run away. He would laugh and say : `That boy will be worth a thousand dollars to his pap.' He told my mother that she did not cook her venison right. He said that it ought to be cooked just enough so that the blood would run out of each side of the mouth when eating. He was an intelligent talker when none but our family were around; but if strangers were about he would not say a word. John Lake, a relative of Half John, would frequently stay over night at our house; hewould not sleep in a bed but would curl down on the hearth and there sleep all night.

"Father had to go to Piqua to mill and to buy corn to make meal. It took two weeks to make the trip with an ox team. When he arrived there, he wanted to buy flour but there was none for sale; they told him if he would say he had no money they would give him a barrel as there was plenty there that had been sent from Zanesville for those that were not able to buy. He would not take it as a gift but paid a dollar a bushel for corn. He went to Dayton for dishes, dry goods and groceries. One of my uncles went to Sandusky City for salt, and to Findlay for provisions, groceries and dry goods.

"After clearing six or seven acres during the fall and winter, it was planted in corn but at husking time fully one-half of it had been destroyed by the bears and raccoons. Bears would come within a hundred yards of the house and tear down the corn.

"After settlers began to come in . larger numbers, a good part of my father's time was taken up helping raise houses and rolling logs. One spring he spent 27 days attending log rollings with the result that he got his corn out late. This showed him that there was a good deal of time wasted in going to the rollings late and starting home early, therefore he told his neighbors that it would not do to keep oil in this way, as it was costing too much. From that time on he hired all his own farm work done, and still went to house raisings. I recollect of his going sometimes eight and ten miles to help raise houses and barns in Union, Hoaglin, Pleasant, Liberty, Washington and York townships.

"Our food for a number of years was mostly corn bread and venison, and occasionally hear meat. Hogs were cheaply raised but

522 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

the bears would kill many of them; what were left alone by the bears would fatten in the woods on the mast (acorns and hickory nuts). When there was land enough cleared to spare for wheat, it was sown and such a thing as a failure of crop was not known; but from the time it began to fill until it was in the stack it had to be watched to keep the blackbirds and squirrels from destroying it. The blackbirds would come in flocks of thousands; then the whole family would get out with cans, boards and rattle-traps (some called them horse-fiddles) and make all the noise possible to scare the birds away. If we were successful in driving them to the next farm, we would not be bothered until towards evening. They always went east in the forenoon and west late in the afternoon, to their roosts along Town Creek.

"When I was about eight years old, there were three families—those of Peter Wills, S. S. Brown and my father's—in the neighborhood, with eight or ten children whose parents built a log schoolhouse which was 16 feet square, all built of basswood logs, with puncheon floor and seats of the same wood, with a clapboard roof and ceiling. The window on the west was about eight feet long and ten inches high, made by cutting out a part of two of the logs forming the wall on that side; the one on the north was about three feet long and ten inches high; neither had any sash. The building stood nearly opposite where is now the house of Hugh Evans, who lives on the old Gilliland homestead farm. Our first teacher was Clarissa Gleason, an aunt of Julius A., Andrew J., Abram B. and Francis J. Gleason. We had three months of school every two years by the parents of the pupils paying a part of the teacher's salary out of their own pockets. Our next teacher was Louisa Spear, who afterward married R. C. Spear, whose son is a well-known newspaper correspondent and traveler, John R. Spear, of New York City.

"When I was 12 years of age, during the winter that we did not have any school at home, I went to school in the district east of where the County Infirmary stands, walking the three miles morning and evening, and missed only one day during the entire winter, and that day it was so stormy that there were only two pupils at school. The three miles were through the woods where bears, deer, wolves and other wild animals made their homes. Only one family—that of J. M. Young—lived on this road within the three miles. During the entire winter I. was not tardy once, and as school was out at four o'clock it was after dark before I was half way home. It was a custom at that time to `spell down' the last thing each day; I stood at the head of my spelling class most of the evenings, although there were half a dozen pupils several years older than I.

"Later on, when more families had moved into the district, we had three months of school each year. Many of our teachers had never seen the inside of a grammer or had gone as far as the single rule of three in Smith's or Adam's arithmetics, which were then the textbooks."

In 1853 Mr. Gilliland entered Farmer's College at College Hill, now a part of Cincinnati, where he studied one year, but met with an accident shortly before the opening of the next college year which resulted in a severe illness from which he did not fully recover for several years. He did not return to college again, much to his regret.

He taught school for two winters and was engaged two years in a dry goods trade at Elida, Allen County, after which he returned to the farm.

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In the fall of 1857 he was married to Ruhamah Baker, daughter of Jacob S. and Mary (East) Baker, of Allen County.

In 1858 he commenced teaching school in Van Wert and did not give up school work until President Lincoln's first call for 75,000 men, when he entered the service of his country, enlisting in Company E, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., being chosen orderly sergeant. The regiment was sent to Virginia and guarded the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad for a time. Then his company with two others was detached from the regiment and sent to Philippi, where they had their first engagement on June 3, 1861; again at Laurel Hill, on July 8th; and at Carrick's Ford on July 14th of the same year. At the last named battle, he had command of this company, although only a non-commissioned officer.

After the expiration of the term of service, he was mustered out with his company on August 27, 1861.

On the 7th of September of 1861 he re-enlisted for three years in Company H, 15th. Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was chosen captain. They were immediately ordered to Camp Mordecai Bartley at Mansfield, Ohio, for the purpose of drilling, and later were transferred to Camp Dennison, where they received their arms and other equipments. They were then sent to Lexington, Kentucky, and from there to Camp Nevins near Nolin Station on the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. There they remained in camp during the winter of 1861-62: While at Camp Nevin, he was taken ill with typhoid fever and the eight succeeding weeks are a complete blank to him; during this time his father and his wife brought him home—the latter had been obliged to secrete herself under the car seats in order to pass through the lines, as an order had been issued that no woman was to be allowed to travel to the front.

He remained ill for three months after returning home. Being very anxious to return to the front, he overdid himself and suffered a relapse, which detained him longer. He returned to his regiment in March, 1862, but was too weak to march, so was placed in charge of the wagon train, consisting of 80 wagons. When they reached Nashville, Tennessee, he joined the regiment and on the first day's march they were obliged to wade Chartier's Creek. After they had marched until quite warm, they went into camp at Columbia, Tennessee, where he was taken down with a severe case of catarrhal jaundice, which in his weak condition still further reduced him. When ordered forward to Savannah, Tennessee, he was not able to march but was hauled in the ambulance until Sunday morning, April 6, 1862, when the battle of Shiloh began. The regiment was then 30 miles from Savannah. They hastened forward, one of his men carry his sword and another his blanket; thus aided he marched those 30 miles from sunrise until 11 o'clock that night. The next morning they entered the fight and were engaged until 4 in afternoon. He says that he never felt better in his life than during the excitement of the battle but after the battle ceased he collapsed, As they did not receive their tents for t0 days and it rained every night and often during the day, he was soon in a condition far worse than ever. He remained, hoping for some improvement but in vain, until the first of May, when he resigned and returned home, where he continued in poor health for six or eight years. Though thus handicapped, he could not remain idle and on September 14, 1863, he was commissioned by Governor David Tod, colonel of he First Regiment of Ohio Militia for Van Wert County. On September 22nd of the same year he was appointed by Gen. Charles W. Hill, colonel of the Forth Regiment of the

524 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

Third Brigade, at Camp Lucas, Toledo, Ohio. This' regiment was composed of commissioned and non-commissioned officers from all parts of the State, assembled there to drill. Mr. Gilliland's experiences at the front and the fact that he was recognized as an unusually good drillmaster and well up in tactics made him especially suitable for the position of colonel.

After peace was declared, he settled down to peaceable pursuits, converting the sword into a plowshare, but owing to the poor condition of his health, brought on by the exposures mentioned above, he was forced to give up farming and moved into Van Wert where he engaged in the handling of grain and seeds, and later on added the produce business. For many years he carried on an extensive business in those lines. In 1893 he disposed of the produce business, and devoted himself to the grain, seeds and hay business and soon added coal. In July, 1905, after over 39 years in active business, he sold all his business, including the grain elevator which he had run for many years and which had replaced the one destroyed by fire in 1891. His intention was to retire from active pursuits and enjoy the rest and peace earned by so many years of activity.

Besides the business relations, he did not neglect his duty t0 his neighbors. He was elected by them to the office of mayor, and after one term was reelected, serving in all four years. While mayor, he suggested and formulated the plans for converting the old "Commons," which till then had been used as a place for hitching teams, into parks and in his official capacity as mayor appointed the first park commissioners and took the first steps towards protecting the magnificent elms, now the pride of the parks, from destruction. The parks were fenced in, trees planted and the beginning made of the parks of which Van Wertcan well be proud. To him the city must give the credit for the creation of the park system.

The first street improvements were commenced during his term of office, when Main street was macadamized. The first sewer, the Jackson street sewer, was also constructed while he was mayor. Van Wert made her first active step forward to_ the position of an up-to-date city at this time, when a number of brick business houses were built, also the Court House.

He was a member of the Board of Health for a number of years and at the present time-is a member of the Board of Public Service. Mr. Gilliland has always been very active in all measures for the improvement of the city. He is a member of. the First Presbyterian Church, of which he has been an elder for over 40 years. He is a Mason, and a charter member of W. C. Scott Post, No. 100, G. A. R.

HARRISON LEATHERS, deceased, formerly one of the leading men and highly esteemed citizens of Ridge township, and for many years closely identified with the township's various interests, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, October 30, 1834. His death occurred June 5, 1902, at his home in this county. He was a son of Christian and Catherine (Shoup) Leathers, his parents being among the hardy pioneers who first brought civilization to the wilderness embraced by Van Wert County of the present day. Although Harrison Leathers had but meager educational opportunities, he was endowed with an active and receptive mind, advancing therefore more rapidly than his companions of the pioneer schools and becoming a teacher of others. He grew to manhood as a practical farmer, fully capable of conduct-

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ing large agricultural operations even when little labor saving machinery had been invented or been put in use.

On April 15, 1858, Harrison Leathers was united in marriage with Martena A. Cummings, who was born October 4, 1836, in Guernsey County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Emanuel and Mary (Redman) Cummings, her father being a native of what is now West Virginia, and her mother of Ohio. Mrs. Leathers was four years old when her parents moved to Van Wert County and settled in Liberty township, where they lived until she reached her 21st year, when they located in Ridge township. The children born to Harrison Leathers and wife were: Edmond A., William C. and Delora V. (Mrs. William C. Gilliland), all of Ridge township; and Florence E. B., wife of John G. Prill, of Paulding County, Ohio. All the children are honorable and respected members of society, and a credit to their parents and to themselves.

Mr. Leathers was a soldier of the Civil War, on August 12, 1862, becoming a member of Company A, 99th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and seeing much hard service until his honorable discharge in July, 1865, at which time he had devoted himself to the Union cause for a period of nearly three years.

The late Harrison Leathers was a man of sterling traits of character, his absolute reliability being recognized on many occasions when his fellow-citizens made him their choice for local offices. He served, with honest efficiency, as clerk of Ridge township and as assessor, and for years creditably filled some position on the School board. Politically he was a Republican, and is remembered generally as one of the township's representative men—one whose standard of citizenship was high, and who invariably conformed to it himself. The deceased was a man of excellent business perceptions, accumulated a comfortable competency and was numbered with the township's most substantial farmers. For a number of years Mr. Leathers had been an interested and active member of the Odd Fellows fraternity, and his burial was conducted according to the ritual of the order. For many years he was an elder in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the General Synod.

GEORGE COVER, residing on his well-improved farm of 147 acres, located in section 30, Washington township, is one of the prominent and progressive farmers of Van Wert County. Born in Perry County, Ohio, February 11, 1845, he is the oldest son of Henry and Mary Magdalene (Foster) Cover, who originally came from Pennsylvania. The Cover family is of German extraction, the great-grandfather of George C., who was born in Germany being the first of the Cover family to come to America, his first location being in Pennsylvania.

Henry Cover, the father, was born in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, and when only a few years old accompanied his parents to Perry County, Ohio, where he was reared and educated. He moved to Van Wert County September 17, 1848, settled on a farm of 160 acres in section 24, Ridge township, and married Mary Magdalene Foster, daughter of George Foster, who was also a native of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Cover became the parents of four children, two or. whom are still living—George, of this sketch and Frances Marion. Christina (Mrs. Samuel Walser) died May *27, 1903, and William Henry, in infancy. The father of the family passed away December 16, 1903, his wife having died September 26, 1885.

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George Cover was three years old at the tine of his father's removal to Van Wert County, and here he was reared and received a common-school education. He was married December 27, 1868, to Elizabeth Crooks, a daughter of Robert and Mary Ann (Foster) Crooks, and they have been the parents of six children—five living and one deceased. Mary Elizabeth, the wife of Ora Mohler of Ridge township, is the mother of five children—Harold, Ilo Abertus, Marie, Frances Ruth, and Chleo Ninetta. Henry E., the second born, died in infancy. Lawrence A., the third child, was reared and educated in the district schools, later studied music at Ada, Ohio, and is now a leading tenor with the Sho-Gun Opera Company. His first season was with John W. Vogel's minstrel company, in 1902. The following season he was with the Ada Rehan-Otis Skinner company, and, for a time, was also connected with the Parsifal Company. Marion F., the fourth child of Mr. and Mrs. George Cover, was educated at the Lima (Ohio) Business College, and is now bookkeeper for the Pennsylvania Railroad at Baltic, Ohio. He married Agnes Burkey, of Tuscarawas County, and has one child—Dorothy Marjorie. George Luther, unmarried, lives at home with his parents. Nettie La Verne, the sixth child, married G. C. Heist, of Washington township, and is the mother of one child—Virgil Marcile.

In 1878 Mr. Cover erected his present fine large frame house and is now preparing to build a new barn. For many years he was a breeder of Polled Aberdeen-Angus cattle, and a raiser, of fine sheep, having won many premiums at the county fairs. Mr. Cover is one of the directors of the Allen County Fire Insurance Company, serving now his sixth year, and is also a director of the Home Telephone Company of Middlepoint. In his religious connections he is a member and a deacon of the Lutheran Church at Middlepoint. A picture of the Cover family accompanies this sketch, being presented on a foregoing page.

ALBERT E. FOUST, for upward of half a century a resident of Hoaglin township, was born June 11, 1835, in that portion of Marion County, Ohio, which has since been designated as Morrow County. He is a son of Job and Sarah (Hardman) Foust, who died in this county many years ago. Job Foust was born in Marion County and was a son of Jacob Foust, who came there at a very early day from Pennsylvania. The former was married to Sarah Hardman, who was a Virginian by birth and remained in Marion County until 1856, when he located in Hoaglin township. Three children survive them, namely: Albert E. ; Lucy, wife of Milton Hemlinger, of Defiance County, Ohio; and Chauncey M., of Indiana.

Albert E. Foust has been an agriculturist most of his life, but for about 12 years was employed as timber purchaser by the Oil Well Supply Company of Van Vert. His education was derived from both the subscription and the public schools and upon the foundation thus laid has been built a superstructure of information obtained from observation and experience, giving him a varied and useful fund of available knowledge which marks the well-read man. In 1864 Mr. Foust enlisted in Company G, 47th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., and, while he was in service only about one year, he was under fire the greater part of the time and experienced all the vicissitudes and excitement of army life. He assisted in the taking of Fort McAllister, was at Bentonville, saw the capture and burning of Columbia, South Carolina, and accompanied Sherman's

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army on its "March to the Sea," receiving an honorable discharge in June, 1865.

Albert E. Foust has been twice married : In 1857 to Elizabeth Beamer, who died in 1886, leaving four children, viz : Loren A., of Indiana; Perry C., of Paulding County; George A., of Hoaglin township; and Shannon L., of Fostoria. His present wife was Mrs. Louisa (Shoemaker Shreckengaust, widow of Abraham Shreckengaust and a daughter of Samuel H. Shoemaker, who was a native of Pennsylvania and a pioneer of Fairfield County. By her first union Mrs. Foust had five children of whom three are living, viz: Samuel H., of Scott; Charles W., of Hoaglin township; and Martha E., wife of Leroy Foust, of Morrow County. Mr. Foust is a Democrat and is now serving his third term as trustee of Hoaglin township, being, in all walks of life, an honorable, upright gentleman, who commands general and deep respect.

EDMOND A. LEATHERS, one of the prominent and representative farmers and stockraisers of Ridge township, whose well-improved farm of 120 acres is situated in section 34, was born in Ridge township, on February 26, 1859, and is a son of Harrison and Martena A. (Cummings) Leathers. The father was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, October 30, 1834, and was a son of Christian Leathers, who was of German extraction but a native of Maryland. The parents came to Ohio at an early day, and in Harrison's boyhood settled in Ridge township, Van Wert County. The latter spent the remainder of his life in the township named, where he died June 5. 1902. He was a prominent and valued citizen, and served efficientlyin a number of the local offices, at various times being assessor and township clerk. During the greater part of his life he was an elder in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the General Synod. He was a valued member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and his burial was conducted according to the ritual of the order. His widow still resides in Ridge township. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Leathers were : Edmond A., of this sketch; William C. and Delora V. (Mrs. William C. Gilliland) both of Ridge township; and Florence E., wife of John G. Prill, of Payne, Paulding County, Ohio.

Edmond A. Leathers was reared in Ridge township and was educated in both its public and private schools as well as at Van Wert. After completing his education, he taught for four consecutive years in Willshire and Liberty townships, and after his marriage settled on his present valuable farm on which he has erected one of the most attractive modern residences in the township. The land owned by the estate of the late Harrison Leathers has become doubly valuable on account of the great development of oil upon it. In 1901 there was drilled on the farm mentioned, which is situated in section 34, Ridge township, an oil-well which, for 33 consecutive days, flowed 250 barrels of oil per day, without being pumped. Later pumping machinery was installed and oil was produced in large, paying quantities.

On June 3, 1883, Mr. Leathers was married to Mary J. Bell, who was born in Ashland County, Ohio, and is a daughter of James and Charlotte (Reame) Bell. Seven children have been born to this marriage, namely : James H., Arthur M., Urban C., Clara B., Earl E., Beulah B. and Luther E.

Politically Mr. Leathers is usually in accord with the Republican party. He has served

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several terms as assessor of Ridge township and as land appraiser, his knowledge in this direction being very considerable. Fraternally he belongs to Van Wert Lodge, No. 251, I. O. O. F., which he joined in 1880; the Knights of Pythias, at Middlepoint, and the Modern Woodmen, at Van Wert. Since his youth he has been a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, is an elder in the Ridge township church, is serving as secretary of the joint council of the Salem charge, and is also a church trustee. In short, he is a man in whom his neighbors have placed implicit confidence for many years—one of the township's most intelligent and representative men, in every relation of life.

THOMAS K. ROWLEY. Few residents of Van Wert County enjoy a. more extended acquaintance, or stand higher among their fellowmen, than Thomas K. Rowley, who has resided in Hoaglin township for more than 50 years and is one of the leading agriculturists of the locality. He was born in Carroll County, Ohio, February 17, 1844, and is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Bird) Rowley, both natives of England, his mother coming to America in 1822. When Thomas was an infant of about six months, his father died and Mrs. Rowley was again married, her second husband being Andrew Wisener. In the fall of 1851 Mr. Wisener brought his family to Van Wert County and located in Hoaglin township. He entered the Civil war from which he never returned, dying at Nashville, Tennessee, but the mother continued to reside in Hoaglin township until 1892, when she passed to the beyond. Four children survive her, Thomas K. Rowley being the only one by the first marriage; the others are Lorenzo D. Wisener, Hannah C. (wife of Benjamin Gesey) and John, all of Hoaglin township.

Thomas K. Rowley was educated and reached manhood in the district in which he still lives, in the fall of 1859 moving to his present homestead where he has since resided. He is a practical farmer, the owner of 130 acres of land (all under cultivation), and is also a _shrewd business man.

Thomas K. Rowley was married November 18, 1896, to Mrs. Mary A. Yoh, widow of the late Jacob Yoh, of Hoaglin township, her father being Christian Mohr, deceased, a prominent farmer of Hoaglin township. She is the mother of four children by her first union, viz : Arthur who, since his wife's death, resides with Mr. and Mrs. Rowley; Roma A.; Irvin S.; and Sarah E., wife of Charles Rogers, all of Hoaglin township. Mr. Rowley was trustee of the township one year, and is now serving on the pike commission. He is a Republican and always ready to work for the good of his community and the public in general. He is a member of the Evangelical Association, being a trustee of Grand Victory Church, of Hoaglin township.

FRANK KING, owner and operator of a fine farm of 40 acres in section 16, Liberty township, was born in Black Creek township, Mercer County, Ohio, October 11, 1865, and is a son of Amasa and Catherine (Mihm) King. The father was a native of Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio, and there was reared and educated, later being there engaged in farming upon a tract of 100 acres. He died in March, 1869, when his son Frank was but four years of age and who has therefore but very little recollection of him.

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The widow is still living, being a resident of Mercer County. Mr. and Mrs. Amasa King had six children, as follows : Emma, who died in early childhood; Taylor, who lives in Rockford, Mercer County; Laura Ellen, widow of Benjamin Hartzog, who also resides in Mercer County; Louis, who is married and lives in Lima; and Frank.

Frank King was reared in both Mercer and Van Wert counties, the family homestead being located on the county line. He was married December 25, 1886, to Minnie Putman, a daughter of Peter and Sarah (Neiferd) Putman, old settlers of Liberty township, Van Wert County. Mr. and Mrs. Frank King have had four children—Leona, who died aged one year; Willis; Earl and Aubrey. After his marriage Mr. King lived first in Liberty township, about four miles south of his present home. In March, 1899, he moved to his present location, having bought the farm during the previous fall. There are three producing oil wells on the farm, which is one of the best improved places in the township. Mr. King is a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, of Ohio City.

ORIN G. VICKROY, a prosperous farmer and stock-raiser of Union township, although not beyond middle life, is the pioneer of this section of Van Wert County. He was born in Richland County, Ohio, April 3, 1854, and is a son of Emanuel and Matilda (Hardman) Vickroy, and grandson of John Vickroy, whose family settled in Pennsylvania at an early date. Emanuel Vickroy, the father, was born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, July 11, 1824, and farmed there until his removal to Ohio on November 4, 1853. He purchased and farmed a small place in Richland County, then abandoned agriculture, and for a time was engaged in merchandising at Belleville, that county. At the end of three years he resumed farming and continued thus until 1853 when he engaged in huckstering until 1884. Emanuel Vickroy was married August 14, 1848, to Matilda Hardman, a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Hardman, both .of German descent. This union resulted in the following offspring: Remina, wife of Henry Schwartz; Martha; Orin G.; Jacob ; Mary E., deceased, who was the wife of E. R. Kelly; Sarah; John H. and Alice, wife of Cassius Huntsman. The mother of these children was born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, September 10, 1831, and on November 4, 1853 accompanied her parents to Richland County, Ohio, where she died on the 25th of December, 1863. The deceased was a member of the Disciples' Church and a woman of most 'estimable character.

Orin G. Vickroy attended the common schools of Richland and Morrow counties and through his father early learned the dignity of labor. After assisting, during his early years, on the home farm, he worked out as a farm hand, a little later buying territory in which to sell patent wire fence. But he lost faith in the article of which he was the agent, being unable to conscientiously say it was the best fence the farmer could buy, and as a result abandoned the venture and thereby lost several hundred dollars. In 1876 Mr. Vickroy went to Wyandot County, where for one year he worked as a farm laborer. He then rented several places, which he farmed until he came to Union township in November, 1884. In June of that year le had visited the county, crossing his present place (then under water), in gum boots. He made an examination of the land; saw how it ay from a report made by a competent stir'eyor, and decided that it could be under-trained to advantage. As a result he pur-

536 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

chased 80 acres, knowing the land to be a good investment if he never moved upon it. In the fall of the same year, as stated, he returned to Van Wert County to reside permanently, and his since converted a portion of the swamp into a well-drained farm, which he has cleared of its timber and placed in a good state of cultivation. Redeeming waste land was a most difficult task, but, when success crowned his efforts, his example was followed by many others. The trials and hardships of those early days were certainly many, and it was often a difficult matter to keep the wolf from the door ; but Mr. Vickroy persistently cleared and tilled the original purchase of 80 acres, and gradually added to it until he owned 235 acres, all of which he himself drained, cleared and otherwise improved. It is perhaps needless to say that he is a man of energy and enterprise, and has been unqualifiedly successful. His standing in the community was shown by his election as justice of the peace, on the Democratic ticket, without the opposing party placing a man in nomination ; but he has steadfastly refused to run for offices of importance.

March 18, 1880, Orin G. Vickroy married Rebecca Gongwer, who was born in Ashland County, Ohio, June 21, 1859, and is a daughter of Philip and Saloma (Long) Gongwer, her father a native of Pennsylvania. They have no children, except by adoption—a boy, James G,, being taken by them from the Wayndot County Infirmary and now bears the name Vickroy. The young man is now serving in the United States Marine Corps, being stationed in the Philippines. In 1901 Mr. Vickroy erected a beautiful home on his farm, the residence containing 11 large rooms, with many closets, and is arranged most attractively and conveniently. It is finished in quarter-sawed oak and finely furnished throughout, being an ideal country home, from which a commanding view of the surrounding country may be enjoyed. A view of Mr. Vickroy's home and portraits of himself and wife accompany this sketch.

HENRY BUSCH, one of the highly esteemed residents of Delphos, was born in Hanover, Germany, in March, 1842, and is a son of Harmon Henry and Mary Busch. The father, with his family, emigrated to America when Henry was two years of age, locating for a few months in Cincinnati, Ohio. He then moved to Washington township, Van Wert County, where he purchased 80 acres of land at $1.25 an acre, the tract—mostly swamp and timberland—having since been cleared and highly cultivated and brought to a valuation of $100 per acre. Harmon H. Busch died July 17, 1874, his wife surviving him until 1895.

Henry Busch was reared on his father's farm, and endured many hardships while assisting in its clearing, cultivation and general improvement, in the midst of which he received his educational training in the schools of Washington township. He was married November 19, 1872, to Barbara Auer, daughter of Joseph and Barbara Auer, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Busch have had six children, five of whom are still living. The record is as follows: Joseph, born December 27, 1874, who resides in Brookville, Indiana; Charles, born November 4, 1877, who married Anna Wilcox, of Delphos, and is connected with the Gempke Brothers & Busch Hardware Company, of Delphos; Josephine, born January 28. 1882, who died at the age of six months ; Ida, born July 28, 1885, who lives at home; George, born July 22, 1887, who resides in Cincin-

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nati ; and Edward, born March 27, 1893, who lives in Brookville, Indiana. Mr. Busch and family are all members of St. John's Catholic Church, of Delphos.

Mr. Busch owns a fine farm of 110 acres in Washington township, which he operated until December 6, 1889, when he rented the farm and removed to Brookville, Indiana, becoming the proprietor of the St. Charles Hotel, which he 'managed successfully for 15 years. In 1904 he sold that property and returned to Delphos, where he owns a fine residence located on East Third street. At one time he was the proprietor of 190 acres of farm land, but has sold 80 acres. He also bought the building where the Gempke Brothers & Busch Hardware Company's store is situated, and started his son Charles in business. Mr. Busch was for many years supervisor and school director of Washington township, and is a citizen of high and substantial standing.

FRANKLIN GOOD, a reputable and influential agriculturist of Van Wert County, living in section 31, Ridge township, on a farm of 75 acres, was born May 17, 1852, in this county, his parents being George W. and Martha (Miller) Good. The father was born in Pennsylvania and was about 10 years of age when his parents removed to Richland County, Ohio, and later to Pleasant township, Van Wert County, where they died. He was a member of the , Methodist Episcopal Church and a man who earnestly endeavored to square his life with his convictions. During his later years he was a strong Prohibitionist. His death occurred January 7, 1898, after a long and well-spent life. Martha Miller Good, the mother, wasa daughter of William Miller, who came to what is now Pleasant township, Van Wert County, at such an early day that few white. settlers had found their way thither. He took up his residence in an Indian cabin, in which he lived for several years and in which his daughter, Mary A., was born. At one time his nearest white neighbor lived io miles away. The first female white child born in the township was Mrs. Mary A. (Miller) Bronson, born in 1836, who is the widow of the late Aaron Bronson—a prominent farmer and at one time county commissioner. Six children are left to survive George W. Good and his wife, namely : Franklin; William; Elizabeth E., wife of Peter Collins; Calvin, of York township; Victor H.; and Delilah J., wife of Rev. F. L. Hook, a Methodist minister now stationed at Waterville, Ohio. All are residents of Ridge township, except Calvin and Mrs.. Hook.

Franklin Good was married November 25, 1874, to Martha J. Clippinger, a native of Allen County and a daughter of Samuel A. and Joanna (Valentine) Clippinger. Mr. Clippinger was born in Pennsylvania, and at an early day moved to Lima, Ohio, there being then but eight log cabins in the village. He remained a resident of Allen County until soon after the Civil War, when he located in York township, Van Wert County, where both he and his wife died. Two sons have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Good, viz. : Barton L., a rising young physician, of Wilmington, Illinois; and Merrill M., who is living at home. The parents are adherents to the Methodist Episcopal faith and take an active part in both church and Sabbath-school work. Mr. Good believes in using his utmost influence for the righteous cause, and is a firm supporter of the principles of prohibition.

538 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

of the trustees of Jackson township, and a prominent agriculturist, resides in section 19 on a home farm of 80 acres, and also owns 80 acres in Washington township. He was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, March 23, 1838, and is a son of Zachariah and Catherine (Deener) Stewart. The father of Mr. Stewart was born in Ohio, and his mother in Maryland. About 1848 the family moved from Fairfield County to Washington township, Van \Vert County, where they were esteemed pioneers and passed their last years.

Andrew J. Stewart was reared in Washington township and there attended the district schools, in the meantime, under his father's ' instructions, learning to be a practical farmer. In the fall of 1869 he settled on his present farm in Jackson township, which at the time was thickly covered with woods and brush. Through his industry and persistent work he has since transformed the virgin land into a fine, productive farm.

Andrew J. Stewart is an honored survivor of the Civil War. In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company H, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Stone River, Chickamauga, Buzzard's Roost, the siege of Atlanta, the battles of Franklin and Nashville, and in innumerable smaller engagements, being honorably discharged from the service in 1866. . Although always at the post of duty, fortunately he escaped the dangers of the fever camp and the battle field.

After his war service was over, Mr. Stewart returned to Van Wert County, where he has resided ever since. His children are : Ebsen, of Washington township; Stephen, of Jackson township; Nevada, wife of Emmet Neese, of Michigan ; Eli, of Jackson township; and Della, Mrs. Elmer Myers, of Hoaglin township. Politically Mr. Stewart is a Democrat. He served in a number of county and township offices entirely to the satisfaction of his fellow citizens. For six years he was one of the Infirmary directors of Van Wert County, has been township treasurer and for three years was township trustee, during this period being president of the board. All in all, he is one of the best known and valued citizens of this locality.

ISAAC R. TUDOR, of Van Wert, has been a prominent figure in the history of Van Wert County for many years past, and his retirement to private life as a member of the hardware firm of Jones & Tudor Co. did not permit him to entirely withdraw from the public service. Mr. Tudor was born in 185o at a place in Butler County, Ohio, which was known as Paddy's Run, and is a son of Richard and Elizabeth (Owens) Tudor. Both parents were natives of Montgomeryshire, North Wales, and came to this country about the year 1842, settling for a short time at Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. From there they went to Long Creek, Iowa, near Iowa City, but soon returned East and located in Butler County, .Ohio, where they remained about five years. They moved from there to, Allen County, Ohio, where the father was accidentally killed by falling off a load of hay
at the age of 55 years, and the mother died at the age of 67. There were nine children in their family, five of whom died in infancy; the subject of our sketch is now the only survivor. William and David gave their lives in defense of the "Stars and Stripes," the former meeting death by starvation in Andersonville

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Prison. Owen has also passed into the Great Unknown.

Isaac R. Tudor was reared on a farm, and continued to do farm work until 1873 when he went to Delphos, Ohio, and secured a clerk-ship. This employment being much more to his taste, he continued to act as clerk for various parties for 12 years. In the meantime his acquaintance and popularity increased and his well-know executive ability caused his friends to urge his candidacy for sheriff of Van Wert County, to which office he was elected in the fall of 1885. He moved to Van Wert on the first of the following year and took up the duties of the office, discharging them in such a manner that he was elected for a second term when the rest of the ticket went down in defeat. A partnership in the hardware business was arranged with W. B. Jones and the store of Jones & Tudor was opened in 1891 and has been conducted with the energy shown by Mr. Tudor in all his undertakings. It is safe to say that few enterprises in the city have had a more substantial growth. In 1896, when William McKinley was first elected President Mr. Tudor was one of the presidential electors, and had the honor of carrying the Ohio electoral vote to Washington. Although he still takes a lively interest in the success of the Republican party, he is devoting his attention entirely to the hardware business.

Mr. Tudor was married in 1876 to Elizabeth Peat, who was one of a family of five children, born in Llanbrynmair, Montgomery . shire, North Wales, where she lived until the death of her parents, when she came to this country, a young girl. Their only child, Bessie Tudor, who is now in New York City, is a musician of rare ability, having studied with the best teachers in this and foreign countries. She bids fair to become one of the leading concert singers of America. She is giftedwith a refined musical temperament and possesses a rich soprano voice of great compass; so full of sympathy that she never fails to captivate her audience. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Tudor is also prominent in Masonic circles, being a 32nd degree Mason.

NELSON F. SHAW. One of the best improved and most productive farms in the northern part of Van Wert County, is situated in section 34, Hoaglin township, and comprises the 170 acres owned by Nelson F. Shaw, who is widely and favorably known throughout this locality. He was born in Morrow County, Ohio, October 3, 1859, and is a son of Francis M. and Nancy (Dunkelbarger) Shaw. The father, now deceased, was also a native of Morrow County, but moved to Van Wert County some time in the 70's and died here many years ago. He was a Republican, a man of strong character and a friend to everyone, who was an acquaintance. He married Nancy Dunkelbarger, who was a native of Marion County and was born in 1837. Mrs. Francis M. Shaw is now a resident of Hoaglin township. Seven children now survive, viz.: Nelson F.; Lydia M. (Mrs. Joseph Hoaglin), of Van Wert; Jacob R.; Grant, of Paulding County; and Isaac V. W.; Florence Y. (Mrs. Delmar Roby) and Harry, of Hoagfin township.

Nelson F. Shaw attended district school in Hoaglin township, and then turned his atten:ion to the subject of agriculture, an occupa:ion in which he has been very successful. On November 8, 1885, he was married to Clara k. Ferguson, who was born November 22, 1866, in Champaign County, Ohio, and is a

542 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

daughter of Enos M. and Arminda V. ( Jett) Ferguson. Both her parents were natives of that county, but in 1868 moved to Columbia City, Indiana, which was their home for many years. There the mother passed away when Mrs. Shaw was a child of 12 years, the father surviving her until March 23, 1896, when he died at Fort Wayne, Indiana. On September 16, 1861, Enos M. Ferguson enlisted at Mechanicsburg, Ohio, serving under Captain Stou until the close of the Civil war. Mrs. Shaw came to Van Wert County early in 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Shaw have one child, Estella M., who was born March 28, 1901. They count their friends by the legion and are among the most popular families in their locality. While not a member of any church, they are willing contributors to the cause of religion, and may safely be relied upon to lend a hepling hand where aid is required for any worthy object. Views of the Shaw home and the farm buildings accompany this sketch.

LOREN P. LEWIS, one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of Van Wert County, has owned and operated a farm of 40 acres in section 6, Hoaglin township, for almost a quarter of a century, during which time he has been constantly adding to his long list of friends, the number being limited only by the extent of his acquaintance. He was born November 18, 1827, in Hocking County, Ohio, and is a son of Isaac and Emily (Morse) Lewis, both of whom were natives of Connecticut. That State was also the birthplace of Philo Lewis, who was the paternal grandfather of our subject. When a young man, Isaac Lewis, the father, settled in Hocking County, Ohio, where he died in 1862. Five children survive him, viz.: Sarah A., wife of John Tomlinson, of Hocking County; Horace M., a resident of Union township, Van Wert County; Abner M., who lives in Hocking County; Legrand B., a resident of Oklahoma; and Loren P.

The schoolhouse attended by Mr. Lewis was the primitive log building, with slab seats and puncheon floor, presided over by a master who instructed them in the "Three R's." During his earlier years he engaged in carpentry, but soon turned his entire attention to farming, which has since been his vocation. In February, 1865, he enlisted in Company K, 194th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., at first performing picket duty in the Shenandoah Valley, but later sent to the hospital at Grafton, West Virginia, as a victim of pneumonia. There he remained three months, when he was honorably discharged from the service. Mr. Lewis moved to his present farm in 1883, and has occupied an honorable and useful place in this community. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Scott.

Loren P. Lewis was married, on November 3, 1853, to Sarah L. Sudlow, who was born in Hocking County, December 14, 1835, and is a daughter of Joseph and Hannah (Clapp) Sudlow. Her father was a native of Connecticut and her mother, of Dutchess County, New York. They were among the first white settlers of Hocking County, Ohio, making their home in a log cabin in the woods of what was afterward Starr township, at a period when bears and wolves were no uncommon sight in the little clearing which constituted their dooryard. Mrs. Lewis has a brother and sister still living—Elizabeth, widow of Oren Buckingham, of Hocking County, and Samuel T. Sudlow, of Indiana. To Mr. and Mrs. Lewis three children have been born, namely : Claretta, deceased : Hat-

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tie L., wife of Frederick Mohr; and Lucy M., deceased, who was the wife of Albert L. Booher, who resides in Huron County, Ohio, two of whose children—Bertha J. and Glenn L. Booher—live with their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Loren P. Lewis, while the third, a daughter, Ilo E. Booher, resides in Scott with Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Brian.

PETER KESLER, a former trustee of Jackson township, who is now a resident of Middlepoint, has been a prominent citizen of this section for many years. He was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, August 8, 1840, and is a son of Abraham and Mary (Shupe) Kesler. The parents of Mr. Kesler were natives of Pennsylvania. They resided in Fairfield County, Ohio, at the time of his birth, but removed to Allen County when he was about six months old. They were early settlers of German township, that county, where Peter was reared by his father, his mother dying when he was 10 years old.

Peter Kesler was educated in the public schools of German township, Allen County, and when ready to enter business located at Wetsel, where he was the first general merchant in the village. Soon, however, he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, and has since followed farming and stockraising with great success. He owns a fine property of 159 acres, at Wetsel, known as the "South View Farm," one of the finest estates in Jackson township.

On November 26, 1864, Peter Kesler was married to Elizabeth Crites, who was born in Allen County, October 16, 1840, and is a (laughter of Charles and Sophia (Ludwig) Crites. Her parents were natives of Pennsylvania and very early settlers in German township. Allen County, where the Crites familyis one of unusual prominence. Hon. Charles Crites, father of Mrs. Kesler, represented Allen County in the State Legislature, and served as justice of the peace in German township for many years, being one of Allen County's truly representative citizens.

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kesler have had seven children, the survivors being : S. Willison, of Allen County; Albertis, residing at Wetsel; and Julia A., wife of Winfield M. McGinnis, of Middlepoint. Those deceased are Mary, A., Charles W., Sophia E. and May V.

Early in 1870, Mr. Kesler and his family located in Jackson township, of which he has since been a resident, with the exception of several years when he resided in Allen County. Both he and his wife are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church at Wetsel, in which he is serving as deacon and church treasurer. He has taken a deep interest in public affairs and the cause of public eduction has ever found in him a friend. Mr. Kesler has served as township trustee and is looked upon as one of Jackson township's most reliable and substantial men.

NOAH WEISMAN, a prominent and influential agriculturist of Van Wert County, residing on a farm of 93 1/2 acres in section 18, Pleasant . township, came to this locality early in the 50's with his parents, Joel and Sarah (Troup) Weisman. They were natives of Perry County, Ohio, as is our subject, who was born August 9, 1846. The father was of German descent and long a school teacher in Pleasant township; both he and his wife have been dead for several years.

Noah Weisman grew to manhood in Pleasant township and has been a farmer since his early years. In December, 1861, he enlisted

544 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

in Company K, 46th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was in the Army of the Tennessee until honorably discharged in the fall of 1862. He took part in the engagements of his regiment in Kentucky and Tennessee, but was not present with his comrades in the battle of Pittsburg Landing, as he was then sick in a hospital.

On October 4, 1864, Mr. Weisman was joined in marriage to Isabelle Zimmerman, who was born March 17, 1846, in Pleasant township, on the farm which is still her home. Her parents were Christian R. and Barbara (Greenamyre) Zimmerman, natives of Columbiana County, Ohio. In 1844 they located in Pleasant township, Van Wert County, and were among the first white settlers in that locality, their cabin being built in the woods and communication with the outside world being by trails marked by blazed trees. Mr. Zimmerman died in 1887 and his wife the year following. Mrs. Weisman is the sole survivor of the family. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Weisman are as follows : Oran W. ; Ina D. (Mrs. B. T. Pile) ; John B.; Alice R., deceased ; and Perry Z. They are both members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, General Synod, and Mr. Weisman is elder of Mount Zion Church in Pleasant township. Although he is a Democrat, he accords to others the perfect liberty of thought on political questions which he desires for himself. His fraternal membership is confined to Pleasant Grange, No. 399, Patrons of Husbandry, of which he has served as master.

WILEY M. KEAR, one of the leading business men of Van Wert, who conducts a real estate, investment and brokerage business in his office at the corner of Main and Washington streets, was born at Van Wert, April 22, 1851,and is a son of Thomas Reed and Catherine (Frisinger) Kear.

Thomas Reed Kear, father of Wiley M., was born in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, April 27, 1806, and was a son of John and Mary (Reed) Kear, his ancestry being English and Scotch. John Kear was a soldier in Capt. William Holt's company, Eighth Regiment of Virginia Militia, in the War of 1812. His father worked in a shipyard, and did other service in the Revolutionary \Var. About the year 1818, John Kear moved with his family, excepting his son Thomas, to Licking County, Ohio, where he died November 31, 1820, leaving three sons—Thomas Reed, William Reed and John Reed (the last named deceased when a young man, unmarried) and four daughters : Eleanor, intermarried with John Pring; Mary Ann, intermarried with Richard Pring (a brother to John) ; Amelia, intermarried with Frederick Baylor; and Ophelia, who died when a young woman, unmarried. Mary (Reed) Kear, the mother of Thomas Reed Kear, was a native of Maryland, a descendant of one of the oldest families of that commonwealth. The Reeds were engaged in ocean traffic with ships of their own building, and were merchants in Baltimore after the Revolution, especially. Mrs. Kear's brothers, William and Thomas Reed.

Thomas Reed Kear, after several years spent as a sailor, joined his mother in Licking County subsequent to the death of his father and engaged with his brothers-in-law, John and Richard Pring, in cabinet making and farming; all of them moved to Champaign County, Ohio, about the year r828. By reason of John Pring being a millwright, an additional source of employment was provided for the three young men, who in 1829 went to Willshire Van Wert County, Ohio, to build a mill ; but on account of an insufficiency of grain

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to make such an enterprise pay they went on West to Muncie, Indiana, where a cousin by the name of Muncie lived. In that section, and in Adams County, Indiana, they plied their vocation for several years. Finally the Prings located permanently in Van Wert County, in 1833 and 1834, and Thomas R. Kear in Adams County, Indiana, where he lived until 1835, when he removed to Willshire township, Van Wert County, where he lived, working at his trades, until 1843, when he removed to Van Wert, at that time a village of 11 families, which offered a fine field for his business. Here he died May 1864, from pneumonia brought on by exposure. He saw the village grow into a thriving and prosperous town. He served as deputy under the first sheriff of Van Wert County, was subsequently elected sheriff by the Democratic party, and served in that office, and in the office of public crier, for several years. On May 1, 1846, he was appointed aid-de-camp, Second Regiment, 12th Division of Ohio Militia, to serve in the Mexican War.

On April 29, 1829, in Champaign County, Ohio, Thomas Reed Kear was married to Catherine Frisinger (see Marriage Record B, on page 223), who was born in Rockingham County, Virginia, April 12, 1812, and was a daughter of Peter and Catherine (Aker) Frisinger. Peter Frisinger and his father were both in the War of the Revolution, and in the Virginia Militia in the War of 1812, Peter Frisinger serving as a private in Capt. Christopher Morris' company of Light Infantry, Fourth Regiment of Virginia Militia, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Wooding Huston and Lieutenant Colonel. He died in the service on January 4, 1815. Catharine Aker (German"Eker") was a daughter of John Aker, who by his descendants is called both John and Henry, from which fact it is presumed that his name was John Henry Aker.

She had several brothers and sisters, and some of the younger generations have spelled the name "Akers," "Acer". "Acers" and "Eckers". Peter Friszinger was the father of 11 children—five sons and six daughters. Five of the daughters married and lived in Champaign County., Ohio. The youngest daughter, Catharine, who became the wife of Thomas Reed Kear, with her brothers, John and Peter, moved to Willshire township, Van Wert County, Ohio. The other three brothers, William, Jacob and Noah, moved into Mercer County, Ohio, and were among the first settlers in that county, where there are many of their descendants still living. A son of Peter is still living at the age of 87 years. The children born to Thomas Reed Kear and his wife were : Mary M., wife of Jackson Pence, of Willshire township ; John J., of Van Wert and Toledo ; Amelia C., deceased; Lydia A., of Petersburg, Illinois; Amanda A., of Van Wert and Granville, Ohio, now of Norfolk, Virginia; Benjamin F., deceased and buried about three miles west of Hennessey, Oklahoma, who lived in many different places in the United States ; Sarah E., deceased, who lived near Brandon, Buchanan County, Iowa ; Robert T., deceased, who lived at Van Wert; Wiley M., of Van Wert; and Elisie A., who died when a child. The mother of our subject survived until November 1, 1895, she being at that time over 83 years of age. In 1836 she united with the first Methodist body organized in Van Wert County, which was known as the "Pring Class", its spiritual leader being Richard Pring known in this section, and later in Iowa, as "A man of God, and full of the Spirit." On moving to Van Wert, she immediately attached herself to the Methodist body there, and remained an active and efficient member through her long, beautiful life.

After the death of his father, when he was

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but 15 years of age, Wiley M. Kear commenced working in the first stave factory built in Van Wert, operated by Warren & Wells, where he continued to be employed until his 18th year, when he secured a position on a farm near Plymouth, Indiana, where he was permitted to attend school during one winter, under the instruction of that good teacher, Albert Nash. Returning to Van Wert, he resumed work in the stave factory, working eight months in the year, and devoting four months to advancing his education. When 21 years of age he went West, and was engaged in farm work in the vicinity of Brandon, Buchanan County, Iowa, until 1837, when he came back to his native place. Here he worked at cutting bolts for staves, general teaming and assisting in a sawmill, and teaching school in winter, until January, 1879, when he entered the county recorder's office, and served four years. At the same time he began his loaning business, which he carried on with the real esstate business, which he had commenced as an agent for his mother in 1873, laying out and platting "Catherine Kear's Addition to the Village of Van Wert." He sold off the lots, and built a house on the remaining land of his mother. In 1883 he decided to devote his entire attention exclusively to real estate, investments and brokerage.

On June 17, 1879, at Brandon, Iowa, Mr. Kear was married to Malinda Romig, who is a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth (Young) Romig. Mrs. Kear was born October . 14, 1853 in Jefferson County, Wisconsin but several years prior to her marriage removed with her parents to Brandon, Iowa. Isaac Romig was born in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, March 26, 1814, and was married March 13, 1842, too Elizzabeth Young, who was born in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, August 8, 1823. She was a daughter of Jacob Young and Katharine Strong (Williamson) Young, who was a daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Richey) Williamson. Isaac Roming was a son of Isaac and Mary Catharine (Schubert) Romig. Isaac Romig, Sr., was a son of John Romig, who was born about the year 1737 in Macungie township, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, and died in 1803. John Romig had two wives; the second one, a Miss Rothermel, who died in 1816, came originally from Holland and was a daughter of John and Sybilla (Zimmerman) Rothermel. John Rothermel died at sea, and his widow landed in Philadelphia. Sybilla (Zimmerman) Rothermel was a daughter of John George Zimmerman and Barbara (Metzger) Zimmerman, who was a sister to Lieut. Gen. Theobold Metzger, Governor of Breda, known also as "Theobold from Weibnom", who left a large estate in Holland, which was forfeited to the crown, over which estate there has been much litigation and useless expenditure of money by some of his heirs in France and the United States, in a vain attempt to secure it. George Schubert, father of Mary Catharine (Schubert) Romig, was born in Germany, and came to the United States when a child of two years. He lived in Weisenburg township, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, where he died at the age of 80 years. He was married to Christiana Nunygesser (spelled sometimes Nunygosser), who was born in Weisenburg township, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania.

The children of Mr. and Mrs. Wiley M. Kear, are as follows: C. R., a lieutenant in the United States Navy; Helen L., Georgiana M., Roy Donald, Paul Winfred, Harry Alexander and Thomas W., deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Kear are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, the subject

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of this sketch is a Republican. Fraternally he is an Odd Fellow, a Mason and a member of the Home Guards of America.

BENJAMIN JONES, deceased, formerly one of the substantial farmers of Willshire township, where he owned a finely improved farm of 293 acres, located in section 10, was also an honored survivor of the great Civil war in which he served for four years. He was born in Richland (now Ashland) County, Ohio, January 17, 1837, and died. January 27, 1903.

Benjamin Jones, the great-grandfather of our subject, was born in Wales and came to America in company with a number of colonists, with whom he settled on a portion of the site of the present beautiful city of Baltimore, Maryland, where he subsequently died, leaving children. James Jones, a son, was born at Baltimore, resided there until he was 21 years of age, when he migrated to Ohio and in 1808 settled in Columbia County. He married Rachel Arnold and they lived in various sections of the State, including Stark, Wayne, Medina and Richland counties. In the county last named he died in 1840 and was survived by his widow for five years.

James Jones, son of James and father of Benjamin, was born near Baltimore, Maryland, in December, 1807, and hence was but an infant when his parents brought him to Ohio. In July, 1843, in Medina County, he married Catherine Deweese, a ,daughter of Joseph and

Elizabeth (Shaffer) Deweese, and to this marriage were born these children : Joseph, Benjamin, Elizabeth. Uriah and Daniel, all deceased; James of Idaho: and John of Michigan. At different periods James Jones and his family resided in Medina and Richland counties, Ohio, and Adams County, Indiana. The mother of the family was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, December 19, 1819, and died in Indiana, September 12, 1899. In political sentiment James Jones was a Democrat, and in religious belief, a Catholic.

The late Benjamin Jones was brought up to hard work and strict discipline, both on the home farm and in the household. His education was that afforded by the district schools of his locality, where, in spite of their disadvantages, he became a well-informed young man. He was reared to be loyal to the government, and no one opposed him, when, in 1861, he decided to enter the army to assist in overcoming the rebellion. He became a member of Company A, 47th Reg:, Indiana Vol. Inf., and during the entire four years of his army life proved himself a true, loyal and courageous soldier on the field of battle, and a cheerful bearer of the innumerable hardships which fell to his lot. The list of terrible battles in which he took part proves conclusively that his service was one of danger as well as honor. He participated in the battles of Fort Madrid, Missouri; Fort Pillow, Tennessee; Browns Plantation, Mississippi ; Jackson, Mississippi; Catau Bayou ; Muddy Bayou, Martinsville and Atchafalaya, all in Louisiana; Spanish Fort, Fort Blakely and Mobile, Alabama; Vicksburg, Riddle Point, Gibson, Champion Hill and many smaller engagements. At Vicksburg, June 18, 1863, he was seriously wounded in the head, and bore the mark to his grave. On another occasion he was kicked on the head by a mule which produced an injury to his skull, and he also had one leg crushed—an injury which also gave him trouble all his subsequent life and on account of which, the government justly awarded him a pension. Mr. ones received his honorable discharge from is country's service, on November 1, r865,

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having been appointed to the rank of sergeant on October 30, 1862.

When this brave soldier returned from the army, he possessed what he had saved from his wages and what he had earned by working for some of his less thrifty comrades. He had always been accustomed to hard Work, as his father had died when he was only 11 years old and heavy responsibilities had thus fallen early upon him.

On December 24, 1865, Mr. Jones was united in marriage with Mary Dailey, who was born November 12, 1846, in Adams County, Indiana, and is a daughter of James and Mary ( Johnson) Dailey. James Dailey was born in Athens County, September 23, 1819 and his wife in Harrison County, in 1822. Mr. Dailey acquired 600 acres of land in Adams County, Indiana. He died February 27, 1863, but was survived by his widow until December 4, 1886. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Jones, Joseph Johnson, entered 240 acres of land in section 10, Willshire township, coming here from Harrison County on May 14, 1836.

On March 17, 1866, Benjamin Jones and wife settled on their present farm, a part of it being a portion of the land entered by Joseph Johnson. It then contained 160 acres, which had been partially cleared and on which stood good log buildings. Mr. Jones continued to acid to the original farm until he owned 293 acres, 65 acres of which form so valuable an oak forest that the place is appropriately known as the "Forest Oak Farm." This farm he continued to operate during his active life, carrying on a general line of agriculture and raising excellent stock. The property has been greatly improved, in 1882 Mr. Jones erecting the commodious brick residence, which was fitted up with everything to make it a comfortable and even luxurious borne. Here his last days were passed in comfortable retirement.

Mr. Jones left his widow and numerous descendants, having had a family of 13 children, as follows: Emma, wife of George Hawkins, of Wren; Eva, wife of Nelson Moser, also of Wren ; Daniel D., who is studying medicine at Chicago, Illinois; Esias T., of Adams County, Indiana; Benjamin Oscar, who is the capable home farmer, taking all care from his mother; James, who died aged three months; Charles J., a resident of Adams County, Indiana; Harry O., a practicing physician in Oklahoma; Mary A., a student in the Van Wert High School ; and Harvey H., Clarence C., Fred C. and Clara A., all attending school and living at borne.

In his political convictions, the late Benjamin Jones was a stanch Republican, but he was no seeker for public office. He took a deep interest in the Grand Army of the Republic organization at Willshire and thoroughly enjoyed meeting his old war comrades. As a business man Mr. Jones possessed keen insight and sound judgment. He was a devoted husband, a kind and careful father, reared a family which is creditable to him and to the community, and took an honest pride in his reputation as an honest and upright man, When he passed away he was mourned by the entire community, for many there were who, during his lifetime, had experienced his practical kindness and profited by his friendly advice. A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Jones and their family accompanies this sketch.

JOHN F. BAKER, one of the representative men of Hoaglin township, who resides on his well-cultivated farm of 70 acres, situated in section 8, was born in Coshocton. Ohio. February 22, 1856, but was raised in Fairfield County. He is a

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son of Amos and Lucinda (Valentine) Baker.

It is not known definitely where Amos Baker was' born, but probably Coshocton County, Ohio; his wife, a native of Pennsylvania, was brought to Fairfield County, Ohio, when she was a small child. The family ancestry is Scotch.

Our subject was reared to the age of 19 years in Coshocton County, being educated in the local schools and then going to Pickaway County, Ohio, where he engaged in farming until 1889. He then came to Van Wert County and in the fall of 1892 settled on his present farm, which he has vastly improved, possessing now good, substantial buildings and well-cultivated fields.

On July 30, 1879, John F. Baker was married to Eliza J. Helvering, who was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, March 22, 1863. They have four children, viz.: J. William, of Paulding County; Estella M., wife of Eldo Myers, of Van Wert ; Leafie D., living at home; and Roy V., of Hoaglin township. The parents of Mrs. Baker, George and Elizabeth (Cline) Helvering, were old settlers in Pickaway county, the father dying when she was an infant. Politically Mr. Baker is a Democrat. He has served three years as a trustee of Hoaglin township, and is considered one of the township's excellent citizens in every respect.

JAMES F. JAMISON, a progressive farmer of Section 24, Washington township, was born in Jennings township, Putnam County, August 18, 1854, and is the youngest of nine children born to Marmaduke and Elizabeth (Van Meter) Jamison. His paternal grandfather, James Jamison, was a native of Pennsylvaniaand was of Irish ancestry, while the maternal grandparents were from Virginia, of Dutch origin. Marmaduke Jamison was born and reared in Ross County and his wife in Fairfield County, Ohio, removing to Putnam County, where they were married and resided many years near Columbus Grove. Their children were as follows : Jasper.; Isaac, deceased; Susan, wife of Samuel Oatman, now deceased ; Francis; Cinderella; Adam; John, deceased ; Alexander and James.

James F. Jamison reached manhood on the farm upon which he was born, and acquired his education in the district schools. He has been a farmer since childhood, when he assisted with the chores before he was large enough to take a more responsible task, and at the age of 16 years assumed the duties of the household. In March, 1905, he located in Washington township, Van Wert County, and purchased 30 acres of land, and although his residence there has been comparatively brief he has attached to himself many warm, enduring friendships. He has an enviable reputation as a breeder of superior hogs, making a specialty of the Poland-China variety, and has some of the finest animals to be found in the county.

Mr. Jamison was married December 12, 1882, to Huldah Engelman, a daughter of Charles and Margaret (Buettner) Engelman. Her parents were born and reared in the same village in Saxony, Germany, and when Charles Engelman came to America in 1848, he was followed, a year later, by Margaret Buettner to whom he was married upon her arrival here. Mrs. Jamison has one brother, George Paul, Living in Paulding County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. James F. Jamison have four children—Stewart, Carl, Laura and Herbert. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Delphos, Mr. Jamison being a trustee. He

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was a member of the School Board in Jennings township, Putnam County for 23 years and has been a lifelong Republican.

JOHN S. IRELAND resides on a farm of 93 acres in section 33, Ridge township, and is widely and favorably known throughout Van Wert County, where he was born June 24, 1848, and where he has resided all his life. His parents were William D. and Mary M. (Stemen) Ireland.

William D. Ireland, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, is supposed to have been of Irish extraction. His parents removed to Allen County while he was still young, and it was there he reached manhood and married Mary M. Stemen, a native of Pennsylvania. With his brother, Elihu S., he came to Van Wert County and entered 120 acres of land in section 33, Ridge township, upon which they located in 1847, and where he continued to reside until his death some 18 years later. He took an active interest in township affairs, serving as trustee and also as constable for a number of years; was a Republican in politics, and a member of the Masonic blue lodge at Van Wert. The following children survive him, viz.: John S.; Mary M. (Mrs. G. H. Poe), of Kenton, Ohio; Eliza J. (Mrs. Jacob C. Smith) ; Lydia A. (Mrs. John Chamberlain), of Michigan ; Christian S.; Rachel L. (wife of Harvey Sanders) ; and Elizabeth F. (Mrs. J.. A. Uncapher).

John S. Ireland spent his early years in the manner of other country boys of his day, going to school during the winter and assisting in the farm duties during the spring and summer months. When old enough to start in life for himself he continued the work with which lie was familiar and in which he has been so successful.

On July 4, 1873, Mr. Ireland was married to Iva C. Junkins, who is a native of Hardin County, Ohio. Six children have blessed their home, viz.: Elmer H., Alvin W.; Orven O.; Walter H.; Marion E. and Freddie O.—the two last named being deceased. Mr. Ireland is a Republican and was at one time constable. He was also on the School Board for a number of years, and was a strong factor in raising the standard of education in Ridge township. Mr. Ireland is a member of the Society of Friends and is a trustee of the church in Ridge township, known as the "Prodigal Home."

WILLIAM H. DAILEY, senior member of the law firm of Dailey & Allen, at Van Wert, and one of the leading members of the Van Wert bar, was born August 28, 1865, the son of the late Judge Amos T. and Eliza J. (Ainsworth) Dailey.

Thomas Dailey, the great-grandfather of William H., came to Ohio in 1820 and settled in Meigs County. Esaias Dailey, the grandfather, was born in Harrison County, Virginia, and accompanied his father to Ohio. He married Mary Ann Thompson, and of their eight children the late Judge Amos Dailey was the eldest. From 1882 until 1888, the latter served as judge of probate in Van Wert County, from 1889 to 1893 was postmaster at 'Van Wert, and for years was recognized as one of the leading public men of the county. He married Eliza J. Ainsworth, and our subject is the fifth member of their family of six children.

William H. Dailey was reared and primarily educated in Van Wert County, in 1889 graduating from the law department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor. In

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1890 he entered into the practice of his profession' at Van Wert, continuing alone until 1895, when he formed a partnership with H. W. Blachly, which was continued until 1897. The association was then dissolved and he again continued in independent practice until March, 1905, when the present law firm was organized. Mr. Dailey has been an active member of the Republican party since attaining his majority.

William H. Dailey was married June 1, 1904, to Margaret E. Handlen, who is a daughter of John Handlen, a well known resident of Van Wert. Mr. Dailey and wife have a pleasant home at No. 230 South avenue, while his well appointed offices are in the Albright Block. Mrs. Dailey is a member of the Catholic Church but Mr. Dailey belongs to no denomination. Fraternally he is a member of the Elks, the Home Guards and the Knights, of Pythias.

WILLIAM HOOVER, for many years an esteemed citizen of the county, residing on his farm in section 33, Hoaglin township, was born July II, 1848, in Seneca County, Ohio. He is a son of Benjamin and Sarah (Boyer) Hoover, both of whom were of German descent, the father being a native of Perry County, Ohio, and the mother, of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, her parents moving to Perry County when she was a child of some three years. There Benjamin Hoover and his wife were married and it remained their home until about 1835, when they located in Seneca County at a time when that part of the State was but thinly settled. During the summer of 1849 they moved to Wyandot County, and later to Hancock County.

William Hoover grew to manhood in Wyandot County, Ohio, and there acquired his education in the public schools. When not yet 16 years of age, on February 29, 1864, he enlisted in Company D, 123rd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and served until the close of the war, being mustered out May 24, 1865. This 15 months of service covered many of the fiercest battles of the entire war. Among the engagements in which Mr. Hoover participated may be mentioned, the battles of Newmarket, Piedmont, Winchester, Opequon, and Fisher s Hill. He was wounded at the two battles last named, as also at Cedar Creek, where he received a bullet wound in the right hand and another in the right arm. In the battle of Hatcher's Run, which \vas fought March 31, 1865, he was wounded 'in the left foot. These were among the most important engagements in which he participated, but he took part in many skirmishes and minor battles, and for some time was in the military hospital at Germantown, Pennsylvania. Returning to Wyandot County, Mr. Hoover resumed the duties of a private citizen and the year following moved to Hancock County, Ohio, where he lived for 11 years, when he located in Hardin County, Ohio, where he spent nine years. In 1886 he moved to Van Wert County and fixed his residence in Hoaglin township, which has since been his home. He is one of the prominent agriculturists of this section, having passed .his entire life in his chosen vocation.

On March l0, 1872, William Hoover was married in Hancock County to Harriet E. Cummans, who was born there March 7, 1849. and is a daughter of the later James and Sarah (Richey) Cummans. To this union five children have been born, namely: Eliza L. (Mrs. John Blythe) ; Anna M. (Mrs. Ellsworth Rice) of Paulding County; Sarah E. ; Tames O.; and 5. Ethel (Mrs. Charles S. Stripe). All the :children, except Mrs. Rice, reside in Hoaglin

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township. Mr. and Mrs. Hoover are members of Fairview United Brethren Church. Mr. Hoover is a prominent member of the Grand Army of Republic ; is a Democrat in his political views; has served as constable for three years ; was school director of sub-district No. 2 for a like period, and is a man universally respected for his patriotism and his substantial abilities. On a preceding page are shown portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Hoover.

JAMES R. BELCH has been a resident of Van Wert County since the spring of 1881, when he moved to his present farm of 40 acres in section 36. Ridge township. He was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, November 14, 1842, and is a son of Joseph and Rebecca (Alford) Belch, both of whom were natives of that State. They were married December 13, 1838, in Tuscarawas County, and in the fall of 1864 moved to Allen County, where the mother died; August 16, 1893. The father then moved to Middlepoint where he, also, passed away, December 28, 1894.

James R. Belch remained in his native county until his 22nd year, when he moved to Allen County and there engaged in farming, operations until he located at this place in 1881. He is a very successful farmer—one who thoroughly understands his calling.

Mr. Belch has been twice married (first) in Allen County to Elizabeth Hammel, a native of Tuscarawas County, who died, without issue, in 1886. On January 24, 1889, he married his present wife, who was Mrs. Emily A. Pollock, born July 18, 1859, in York township, Van Vert County, and a daughter of Benjamin D. and Rachel (Thomas) Strother —the former of Muskingum County, and the latter, of Madison County, Ohio.

Mrs. Belch's father settled in York township more than half a century ago and reared a large family of children who are a credit to his teaching, all but one of whom are residents of this county, viz.: Harriet R., wife of John Tipple; Mary E., Mrs. William Johnson; Nancy I., who married A. L. Everett; James M.; Emily A., wife of Mr. Belch; and Erwin Arthur, a minister of the M. E. Church stationed in Toledo, Ohio. Emily A. Strothers was first married to Benjamin F. Pollock, and three of the children of that marriage are living, viz.: Arthur R. of Columbus ; Cora B., wife of F. H. Lehmann of Washington township ; and Bessie I.

By his second marriage Mr. Belch became the father of three-children, namely : Velma E.; Mary U.; and Ernest A. Both Mr. and Mrs. Belch are members of the Methodist Church at Middlepoint. He belongs to the Improved Order of Red Men at that place and to the G. A. R., being a veteran of the Civil war. In the fall of 1863 he enlisted in Company D, 161st Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was in service, for the most part in Virginia, until September, 1864, when he was honorably discharged and returned home. In politics Mr. Belch is a Republican.

FRED H. WEGESIN, one of the successful agriculturists of Washington township, who with his brother John owns and operates a fine farm of 160 acres, 80 acres of which is situated in section 36, Washington township, Van. Wert County, and 80 acres in section 1, Marion township, Allen County. He was born in Delphos, Ohio, February 23, 1871, the son of Henry and Catherine (Ballman) Wegesin, and the fourth of a family of seven children.

Henry Wegesin was born in Hanover.

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Germany, and came to this country when only 17 years of age. Mrs. Wegesin was also a native of Germany and when a small child emigrated with her parents to the United States, first locating in Cincinnati. Her parents had been undecided about coming to America, because some of the members of the family preferred remaining in Germany. When first locating in Cincinnati they took a house previously occupied by a family who had had the typhoid fever, and Mrs. Wegesin's brother and sister both contracted the disease, dying within nine weeks after landing in America.

Mr. and Mrs. Wegesin were married in Delphos, where he was engaged in the marble business, later becoming a mason contractor for bridge work. The seven children born to this union were as follows : Frank, who lives in Marion township, Allen county, Ohio and married Johanna Hampf ; Anna, who married Henry Bruner and died April 5, 1897; Rose, who lives on the home farm; Fred H., Carrie, wife of Henry Honhost of Marion township, Allen County, Ohio; John, who has an interest in the home farm; and Kate, wife of Henry Moreo of Delphos. The family are all members of the St. John's Catholic Church of Delphos.

SILAS H. EKEY, for many years one of the successful farmers of Washington township, resides on his well improved farm of 129 1/2 acres, 80 acres of which are located in section to, the remaining 49 1/2 acres being across the road in section 3. He was born March 22, 1858, in Jefferson County, Ohio, and is the son of Andrew and Catharine (McCullough) Ekey.

Andrew Ekey is of English descent, his paternal grandfather emigrating from the mother country. He himself was born in Jefferson County, Ohio. There he was reared and educated, and remained in that county until after his marriage. Mrs. Ekey's ancestors came from Ireland. Andrew Ekey and family came to Ashland County, Ohio, when Silas was only two years old, and purchased a farm of 200 acres upon which. they located. The eight children of the family were : Taylor, the oldest son, now living in Ashland County, who married Tillithea Beckman; Martha, wife of Lige Bright of Ashland county; Isabelle, who married Marion Brown and is deceased; Hugh who married Laura Wallace and resides in Ashland County; Emma, wife of Albert Barnes, who lives in Richland County; Albert, who married Pearl Hoffman and lives on the old homestead in Ashland county; and Mary, formerly Mrs. Barcillian Scott, now deceased.

Silas H. Ekey was reared and educated in Ashland county, having always devoted his time and energies to farming. In 1895 he moved to Van Wert County, Ohio, purchased his farm of 129 1/2 acres from Simon Timbers and has since resided there. Mr. Ekey has never married. While he continues to live on the farm, except for raising some corn and wheat, he has not been actively engaged in agricultural operations for some time, but leases the ground to others. He is now devoting his time to the breeding of cattle, and at present has a fine herd of 17 head. ,

WILLIAM H. WALTERS, one of the leading agriculturists of Pleasant township, who owns a well-cultivated farm of 119 acres, situated in section 6, was born in Ridge township, Van Wert County, August 13, 1860, and is a son of John J. and Julia A. (Gilliland) Wal-

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ters. The late John J. Walters was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, and died during our subject's childhood. Later his mother became the wife of Christian Palmer, of Ridge township, where she still resides.

William H. Walters was reared and educated in Ridge township and his whole life has been devoted to agriculture. Since 1884 he has occupied his present farm and by thrift, enterprise and excellent management he has transformed it into one of the best homesteads in the township. His agricultural operations are of a general nature.

On December 13, 1883, Mr. Walters was married to Mary J. Fisher, who was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, February 22, 1861, and is a daughter of George and Sarah A. (Walters) Fisher, and a granddaughter of Mary E. (Wallace) Walters, the latter of whom still survive, being 95 years of age. Her home is in Tuscarawas County, to which she came in pioneer days, and her descendants of four generations are gathered around her. George Fisher, father of Mrs. Walters, is deceased, but his wife still resides in Tuscarawas County. The Children of Mr. and Mrs. William H. Walters are as follows: Olen L., Ethel, Anna D., David W. and Nellie M., the two last named being twins. Mr. Walters has faithfully cared for his children's education and is giving them every advantage in his power. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church at Convoy.

Politically Mr. Walters is a Republican. He has served as school and cemetery trustee. He is overseer of Pleasant Grange, No. 399, Patrons of Husbandry, having already served as master, and altogether is widely known through this section of the county as a man of sterling character who commands unwavering esteem and confidence.

ELIJAH W. WILSON, deceased, who died April 23, 1900, at his beautiful home, No. 631 South Washington street, Van Wert, was long one of the leading business men of this city. He was the senior member of the large contracting firm of Wilson & Zook, a sketch of the latter appearing in this volume.

Elijah W. Wilson was one of a family of eight children born to John and Mary (Morrison) Wilson. He was born on October 15, 1824, in Richland County, Ohio, and there resided until he located at Van Wert in 1860. In the early days of the Civil war he enlisted in defense of his country, and served three months as a member of the 15th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., after the expiration of his term he reenlisted, but was discharged shortly afterward on account of sickness. He was a good soldier and through life a patriotic citizen.

After settling in Van Wert County, Mr. Wilson entered into the contracting business and later became associated with Mr. Zook, the partners building many of the finest residences and most substantial business blocks in the city of Van Wert. The death of Mr. Wilson was deeply deplored by his fellow citizens, as it removed a man who was thoroughly honest and upright in all his business dealings and, to the close of a long life, consistently thoughtful and considerate.

Mr. Wilson was married to Ellen S. Linn, a daughter of the late Andrew Linn, who still surviveshim. Andrew Linn was a native of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and married Jennie Patterson. In 1837 he moved to Richland County, Ohio, and in 1848 settled in section 10, Washington township, now a part of Delphos. He served as the second postmaster of Delphos, was justice of the peace for a long

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time, and active as an old-line Whig. He was the father of the following eight children : William Scott; Mary Ann (Barnett), of Richland County, Ohio; Martha and Elizabeth, both deceased ; Catharine, deceased, former wife of H. S. Hunter, of Delphos; Andrew, deceased; Susan C., widow of Gideon Ditto, who resides in Spencerville; and Ellen S., the widow of our subject.

Mr. and Mrs. Wilson were the parents of four children, all of whom died in infancy. A child was taken into their home, whom they raised and educated—Lillian Murray, who is now married and lives in Bellefontaine, Ohio.

Mr. Wilson was a member of the different branches of Masonry and of the order of Knights Templar and during his earlier years was active in that organization.

CHRISTIAN PALMER, a veteran of the Civil war and leading farmer of Ridge township, has resided on his farm in section 32 for many years. He was born March 4, 1842, in Allen County, Ohio, and is a son of Samuel and Louisa (Ash) Palmer the former a native of Virginia, and the latter, of Maryland. When Christian was a lad of ten years the father died, leaving a number of children.

Christian Palmer received his education in the common schools of Allen County, and, at the age of 18 years (his mother having in the meantime married again) he left home to support himself and make a place for himself as a man of the world. He at once gave his attention to farming and has been uniformly successful. On June 22, 1862, Mr. Palmer enlisted in Company F, 118th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was detailed as teamster. He was in the Georgia campaign ; the siege and captureof Atlanta; battle of Nashville, Tennessee;. was with Sherman at Goldsboro, North Carolina, and participated in many other important engagements, receiving an honorable discharge from the service in June, 1865.

Returning to Ohio, Mr. Palmer came to Van Wert County, where he was married to Margaret Oman, who was a native of Allen County. This union resulted in the birth of two sons—Leroy and Charles, both of whom are deceased. The present Mrs. Palmer was formerly Mrs. Julia A. Walters, to whom he was married on June 22, 1871. She was the widow of the late John J. Walters and a daughter of Adam and Sarah (Shaffner) Gilliland, who resided in this county at an early day and died in Ridge township. Mrs. Palmer is a native of Van Wert County, where she was born January 9, 1838. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer have had five children, viz.: Frank H., who lives at home; Robert G., a farmer of Ridge township; Adam A., residing in Liberty township; Sarah L., wife of George Poe of Pleasant township; and Carrie A., deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Salem. Politically Mr. Palmer is a Republican and was formerly trustee of Ridge township.

GEORGE MICHAEL KIMMET, one of the prominent farmers of Washington township, who resides on his farm of 147 acres, located in section29, was born in Seneca County, Ohio, on February 14, 1843, and is the son of George and Helena (Baumgartner) Kimmet, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father vas born in the village of Hessler County of Karlstatt, Kingdom of Bavaria, in the year of 1797, being reared and educated in Germany.

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After completing his education he learned the trade of a stone mason, and subsequently became a building inspector. His wife, formerly Helena Baumgartner, was a native of the village of Minster, County of Germunter Unterfranken and Asheffenburg, Kingdom of Bavaria. Mr. Kimmet, with his wife and six children, emigrated to America, landing in New York after a voyage of 83 days. Mr. and Mrs. George Kimmet were the parents of the following children : Jacob, Barbara ; Adam; and Ottilia—all born in Germany and now deceased ; John, born in Seneca County, Ohio, also deceased ; George M., of this sketch ; George W., born in Seneca county, Ohio, and now living in Howell County, Missouri ; and Henry, a native of Seneca County, Ohio, who now resides in Coffey County, Kansas.

George Mitchell Kimmet was reared and educated in Seneca County, Ohio, and at the age of 21 years removed to Van Wert County. After disposing of his 40 acres of land in Seneca County, he purchased 40 acres in Van Wert County, and has gradually added to his original farm until now he has 228 acres of land located in sections 20, 29, and 32. All of the buildings on the place are convenient and modern, Mr. Kimmet having built his present large barn in 1881, and in 1903 erected another large one on section 32. In 1887 he built the fine large brick home now occupied by himself and family.

On May 3, 1870, Mr. Kimmet was married to Mary Barbara Reindel, daughter of George Reindel, one of the old settlers of Washington township, Van Wert County, and they have become the parents of 15 children (14 of whom are still living), as follows : Mary Kimmet, born February to, 1871, and who died September 20, 1871; George J., born April 6, 1872, who married Laura Sendelbach of Seneca County; Christina, who was born

October 30, 1873, and lives in Toledo, Ohio; Anna May, born January 21, 1875, now Mrs. Jacob Reurick, who lives near Landeck, in Allen County, Ohio; John, born March 9, 1876; Joseph, born December 15, 1877, who married Anna Fonefelt; Barbara, born February 28, 1880; Michael, born July 5, 1881; Helen, born May 13, 1883; George Henry, born May 2, 1885; Anna Frances, born August 3, 1886; Leo, born December 31, 1887; Anna, born March 2, 1890; Aloysius, born June 17, 1891 ; and Albert F., who was born February 1, 1893. They are also rearing a boy—Oscar Ireland—born February 12, 1897, who was sent to them July 27, 1898.

In his public and fraternal relations Mr. Kimmet has served as trustee of Washington township, has been a member of the school board, and is connected with the St. Joseph society. Mr. Kimmet and family are all members of the St. John's Catholic Church of Delphos.

JOSHUA WAGERS, who is now serving his eighth term as a justice of the peace, in Willshire township, resides on his well improved farm of 160 acres in sections 8 and 9. He belongs to one of the old, honorable and numerous pioneer families of this section of Ohio, and was born in section 9, Willshire township, October 5, 1837, his parents being John and Anna ( Johnson) Wagers. The father was born in 1806, in Baltimore County, Maryland, and was 14 years of age when he accompanied his parents to Harrison County, Ohio, where he married Anna Johnson. The children of Mr. and Mrs. John Wagers were : Rachel, (Mrs. Tindall) and Joseph J., both deceased; Mary (Mrs. Neiford) of Willshire township; Joshua, of this sketch ; David, a member during the Civil war

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of the Fourth Regiment, Ohio Vol.. Cav., who died in the service at Chattanooga, Tennessee, Catherine (Mrs. Wolf) ; and John K., both of Wren, and Eliza, who died young. Three of the children were born in Harrison County and five in Van Wert County.

In April, 1837, John Wagers and family settled on section 9, Willishire township, where he entered 320 acres of land and later bought 40 acres, having 360 acres in one body, 80 of which was in section 8 and the balance in section 9. He cleared 150 acres of the land and placed it under cultivation, devoting his active life to farming and the improvment of his property. During nearly all his life pioneer conditions prevailed, and it was a long distance from his log cabin to the nearest mill point—Fort Wayne or St. Marys. In the early years the family subsisted largely on game, which was then plentiful on the land, which now embraces his fertile fields. John Wagers lived to the age of 85 and his worthy wife until nearly 91 years.

Joshua Wagers has always resided in Willshire township and, like his father, has devoted himself to agricultural pursuits, which include a general line of farming, stock raising and the buying and selling of cattle. His farm is a part of the old homestead entered by his father 70 years ago, and the land is well located, productive and valuable.

In 1858, Mr. Wagers was married (first) to Elmira Medaugh, who was born September 22, 1837, and died September 20, 1894. She was a daughter of those pioneers, Ephraim and Jane (Slater) Medaugh. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Wagers were: Willis B., of this township; Anna J. (Mrs. Close), deceased; Mary S. (Mrs. Agler), of Michigan, Ephraim J., of Geneva, Indiana; Charity A. (Mrs. Kreisher), of this township; and Minnie R. (Mrs. Hard), of North Dakota. Mr. Wagers was married (second) to Mrs. Elizabeth Roland, widow of Levi Roland and daughter of Charles and Sarah Fleck.

Since casting his first vote for Abraham Lincoln, in his first presidential candidacy, Mr. Wagers has been identified with the Republican party. He has always taken a deep interest in public matters and has long been one of the prominent men of his township. During his long term of service as justice of the peace, Mr. Wagers has satisfactorily adjusted many difficulties and has rendered hundreds of decisions which have met with the public approval. For 13 years consecutively he has served. as school director and for one term was township trustee. As to his religious connections, he is one of the leading members and most liberal supporters of the United Brethren Church at Wren.

JOHN J. HOFMANN, of the firm of J. J. Hofmann & Company, hardwood lumber dealers in Pleasant township, is also an agriculturist of pronounced success and resides on a farm of 71 acres in section 30, Pleasant township, which has been his home for over 20 years. Mr. Hofman was born in Van Wert County, Ohio, November 25, 1860, and is a son of John C. and Magdalena (Germann) Hofman, the former a native of Germany, and the latter, of Van Wert County.

John C. Hofmann, the father, located in Pleasant township and was among the first to engage in running a. sawmill in Van Wert County, doing quite an extensive business. He was married here to Magadelena Germann, daughter of Adam Peter Germann, who was an early resident of Harrison township. Six children were born to our subject's parents,

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namely; John J.; Annie K., deceased ; Martin H., of Pleasant township; August C., of Denver, Colorado; Rosa M., wife of Frederick Busch, of Pleasant township; and Lucy M., wife of Frederick Dauler, of Union township. The father of the family died in 1870.

When John J. Hofmann had attained his 16th year, he entered a sawmill, where he learned the business and continued as an employee for seven years. He then engaged in that line as a proprietor, adding the sale of lumber to its manufacture; and has succeeded beyond his expectations. He now handles large quantities of hardwood lumber and his yards and sawmill have such an extended patronage at to place them among the important industries of Van Wert County. In addition to being the proprietor of this enterprise, Mr. Hofmann is a farmer of no mean ability and is the owner of three tracts in this county, viz.: The farm upon which he resides in section 30, Pleasant township, which contains 71 acres of well-kept land; a farm of 46 acres in section 31, Pleasant township; and a half interest in 60 acres lying in Harrison township. His partner in this ownership, as well as the sawmill and lumber business, is F. C. Wambsgamss, of Harrison township. On a preceding page of this work are shown views of Mr. Hofmann's home and barn.

Mr. Hofmann was married November 25, 1883, to Anna C. Siegel, a native of Holmes County, Ohio, and their six children are: Theodore C., John R., Henry J., Ora A., Olga A. and Arthur C. Mr. Hofman is a member of St. Peter's German Lutheran Church, of Harrison township, and is one of the elders. He is a member of the School Board of Pleasant township and has endeavored maintain the schools at the highest grade. In politics he is a Democrat. His portrait accompanies this sketch.

HON. AMOS T. DAILEY, deceased. The late Judge Amos T. Dailey belonged to one of the pioneer families of Ohio, one which has proved itself, down to the present generation, worthy of the esteem and consideration of the communities in which its members dwell. He was born in Athens County, Ohio, March 16, 1832, and was a son of Esaias and Mary Ann (Thompson) Dailey.

Thomas Dailey, the grandfather was born of Irish parentage, in Delaware, in the year 1775. He was reared in Virginia, to which State his parents removed; was married to Mary Majors, in 1798; reared 10 children, and lived in Virginia until 1820. In that year he migrated to Ohio and settled in Meigs County, where he died in 1860, being survived four years by his wife.

Esaias Dailey, the father, was born in Harrison County, Virginia, December 6, 1805, but entered into manhood in Meigs County, Ohio, where he engaged in farming. It cannot be stated in what year he first located in Athens County, but in May, 1831, he was married there to Mary Ann Thompson and lived in that county until 1832. His wife was a daughter of Amos and Jane (McBain) Thompson—Irish *and Scotch, respectively—she herself being a native of Virginia, born in October, 1810. The children of Esaias Dailey and wife were: Amos T., the immediate subject of this memoir; Jane, Mrs. John Smith; Nimrod, deceased; Esaias, of Kankakee, Illinois; Albert' William, of Walkerton, Indiana; Victoria, Mrs. Joseph Foster, of Adams County, that State; Clayton, of Decatur, Indiana: and Mary Ann, wife of Dallas Foor. In 1833 Esaias Dailey moved to Auglaize County, Ohio, and resided for one year at St. Mary's, and in 1834 located in Van Wert County, entering land two miles west of Willshire, just

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across the Indiana line. From 1837 until 1850 he followed farming here, and also conducted an old-fashioned inn situated on the stage route. He died October 14, 1869, his wife, the mother of Judge Dailey, having preceeded him long before, dying of cholera on July 22, 1854.

The late Judge Dailey was mainly educated in private schools, and at the Ohio Weslyan University, Delaware, Ohio, having come upon the stage of life before the present excellent public school system was perfected. Like many other of the young men of his time and manner of rearing, at the age of 24 years he was a practical farmer and an excellent judge of stock, engaging for several years in buying and driving stock, and on one occasion (in 1853) taking several droves of horses and cattle as far as Chicago. After his marriage, in 1856, he located in Athens County, Indiana, farmed until 1864 and then became a general merchant at Pleasant Mills, Indiana. He continued there in the mercantile business until 1870, when he settled in Willshire township,

Van Wert County, Ohio, where he resumed farming.

In 1882 Mr. Dailey was selected for one of the most responsible and honorable positions in the county, that of probate judge, and this office he filled to the entire satisfaction of his fellow citizens until 1888. During a part of 1889 he resumed the buying and shipping of stock, but in that year he was appointed postmaster at Van Wert. After four years of faithful, honorable service in this office, he retired to private life, his death occurring on May 20, 1902.

On July 14, 1856, at Van Wert, Judge , Dailey was married to Eliza Jane Ainsworth, a daughter of William and Susan Ainsworth, 1 who was born January 1, 1837, at Madison, Ohio. The six children born to this union . twere : Orsini and Susan, both deceased; Laura B.; Sarah G.; William H.; and Esaias. Of the above family William H. Dailey is one of the leading attorneys at Van Wert, and is the senior member of the law firm of Dailey & Allen. Mrs. Dailey died on January 21, 1906.

Judge Dailey was a lifelong Republican and for a number of years was one of the party leaders in this section. He was a man of high principles, both in public and private life, and enjoyed the confidence, esteem and deep respect of his fellow citizens. In his fraternal relations he was a Royal Arch Mason.

JACOB BURGNER, a prominent farmer residing in section 7, Pleasant township, on a highly cultivated farm of 160 acres, has lived in Van Wert County 42 years and all but one year of this period in Pleasant township. He was born July 4, 1839, in Fairfield County, Ohio, and is a son of Joseph and Julia A. (Bailor) Burgher. The great-great-grandfather was born in Switzerland, whence he came to America, in 1734, and settled in Pennsylvania, from him laving descended the numerous family of that lame in the United States.

Joseph Burgner, the father of Jacob, was born in the State of Pennsylvania in 1811, and vas 17 years of age when his parents came to Ohio and located in Fairfield County, where he died April 29, 1900, at a ripe old age. He vas the father of ten children, four of whom re living, namely: Jacob; Aaron; Martin L., nd Ardilla, widow of Joel McDonald. Eliza, the second child, died January 31, 1906. All ere residents of Fairfield County, except Jacob Burgner, who was reared and educated there but came to Van Wert County in De-

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cember, 1863. For a short time he farmed in Ridge township and ex-county commissioner part of Pleasant township and there carried on agricultural operations until the spring of 1894, when he purchased his present farm in section 7. When Mr. Burgner first came to this section the scattering cabins, primitive frame houses and struggling hamlets gave little promise of the prosperity which now presents to view cosy homes, handsome residences, highly cultivated fields and thriving villages and cities—all bound together by telephone, electric and steam lines and the rural mail de livery.

Mr. Burgner was married December 22, 1864, to Caroline Knittle, born in Allen County Ohio, November 26, 1846, and a daughter of the late George Knittle of Ridge township, this county. Peter Knittle, a prominent farmer of Ridge township and ex-county commissioner of Van Wert, is a brother. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Burgner, viz.: Mary M.; Julia A., wife of Jacob Debolt, a farmer of Pleasant township; and Ora E., residing at home. In politics Mr. Burgner is a Democrat. He was for many years a director in sub-district No. 4, and took a lively interest in the successful management of the schools.

SAMUEL G. BAER, one of the representative farmers of Washington township, who now resides on his well-developed and finely improved farm of 80 acres in section 10, was born in Richland County, Ohio, July 21, 1856, and is the son of Daniel and Margaret Elizabeth (Peters) Baer, old settlers in Hoaglin township. In 1859 Daniel Baer moved his family from Richland County to Hoaglin township, subsequently selling his farm of 80 acres and locating at Scott, Van Wert County, Ohio, where he lived until the time of his death, October 1, 1894. To Mr. and Mrs. Baer were born the following children : John D. ; William H., now living in Middlepoint; Hannah, who died at the age of 18 months; Samuel G., the subject of this sketch; Mary A., who died at the age of 20; Daniel A. L., of Hoaglin township; Leonard F., who died when 19 years of age; and Anna, who died when an infant of two years. Mrs. Baer resides with her son, John D., who lives near Scott, Union township, Van Wert County.

Samuel G. Baer was reared and received his education in the schools of Hoaglin township, later attending the Ohio Normal University, at Ada, and after graduation taught for one year in Hoaglin township, but subsequently engaged in agriculture. On March 29, 1883. Mr. Baer was united in marriage with Rebecca Jane Friesner, a daughter of Ephraim and Dianah Freisner. Her father was one of the old settlers of Washington township, originally coming from Fairfield County, Ohio. Ha is still living and makes his home with Mr. Baer, the farm being jointly owned by them. The land is all cleared and drained and in a high state of cultivation. In 1902 they built the present large barn upon the place and have made many other improvements which add to its attractiveness and value.

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel G. Baer have become the parents of four children, three of whom are living and one is deceased, namely : Effie Ethel, a high school student; Zenas Marion, who is taking a course in the Delphos High School; Lester Floyd: and Dane Lawrence, who died in infancy. Mr. Baer and family are members of the United Brethren Church of Middlepoint circuit. He has acted in the capacity of teacher and superintendent of the Sunday-school and secretary of the church, and

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is at present the president of the township Sunday-school organization. Politically, Mr. Baer has always been a Republican, and for one year was census enumerator. He has also been a candidate for the School Board, but it was impossible to overcome the Democratic majority in Washington township.

LANDY JEFFERSON CLIFTON, one of the prominent general farmers and stock-raisers of Willshire township, where he owns a finely-improved farm of 160 acres in sections 7 and .8, was born in Liberty township, Van Vert County, October 18, 1854, being a son of Daniel and Sarah (Burk) Clifton.

Daniel Clifton was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1826, and was a son of Job Clifton, who passed his life in Pickaway County, where he died aged 40 years. While still young he was 'thrown upon his own resources, and when but 18 years of age was married to Sara Burk, also a native of "Pickaway County, who died in March 1863, aged 38 years. Their children were : Catherine (Mrs Bowen) of Willshire township; Margaret (Mrs. Dunathan), deceased ; John, of this sketch ; Charles M., deceased ; and Abraham, of who nothing has been heard for the past 30 years. After his marriage Daniel Clifton moved to Springfield, Illinois, but subsequently returned to Pleasant township, where he lived from 1850 until 1864, when he enlisted in Company H, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and died in the army about one years later, on January 1, 1865, aged 38 years.

At the age of 11 years Landy J. Clifton was thus left an orphan, being reared in the home of a brother-in-law until he was 18 years old, when he began life for himself as a day laborer. He was industrious and willing, and during the years preceding his majority, while laboring at various occupations he made friends everywhere and providently saved his money, so that when he reached manhood he found himself able to first rent land and, later, to buy 80 acres in Adams County, Indiana. This tract he worked prior to his marriage, but never resided on it, subsequently selling it and purchasing his present home in the village of Wren. To this first purchase he continually added, until he possessed 200 acres as the direcet result of his industry and excellent business perceptions. After selling 40 acres he still owns 160 which he has continued to improve until the present time. He has probably one of the most attractive homes in the township, having given great care to the arrangement of the evergreens and other shrubbery which ornament the lawn around the comfortable residence. All his buildings are neat and substantial and the entire appearance of the homestead testifies to the thrift and good management which prevail.

Mr. Clifton has not always been a farmer, having been engaged for 17 years in manufacture and sale of tile, during which time he gave employment to six men. For many years he has also acted in the capacity of auctioneer, and is very popular throughout the township. Politically he has long been prominently identified with the Republican party and for the past four years has served as a member of the County Central Committee from Willshire township. He has also been a member of the Town Council of Wren and president of the Board of Education.

On October 18, 1883, Mr. Clifton was married to Laura Belle Sheets, who was born in `his township and a is a daughter of Frederick Ind Nancy Ann (Merica) Sheets. They have lad these children : Davis Leroy; Lambert

568 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

Dennis, who died when an infant of five months; Benjamin Harrison; Sherman Corval; Olive Viola and William McKinley.

Mr. Clifton is one of the leading members of the Radical United Brethren Church at Wren, is one of the trustees and has been a church steward ever since their edifice was erected. He is a good example of the self-made man—one who has overcome many obstacles through individual energy and one who enjoys in large measure the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens.

EDWARD E. CHAMBERS, county commissioner of Van Wert County, and one of the prominent farmers of Ridge township, where he has a well improved farm of 120 acres, was born in Knox County, Ohio, September 18, 1849, and is a son of John W. and Ellen (Cook) Chambers. The father removed from Knox County to Van Wert when his son, Edward E., was to years of age. For many years he was very prominently identified with the stock interests of this section, and was known throughout the county for his large operations in that line. He died in 1883, survived by a number of his fam ily of to children.

Edward E. Chambers has been a resident of Van Wert County since 1860, being mainly educated in this county and having devoted the greater part of his life to agriculture. His well improved farm in Ridge township is one of the very valuable properties in his section of the county.

Mr. Chambers was united in marriage with Ada E. Roberts, who is a daughter of John Roberts, one of the substantial farmers of Van Wert County. She is also a native of Knox County, and accompanied her parents to Van Wert County when a child of five years. Mr. and Mrs. Chambers have seven children, as follows : Walter Curtis, married, who is a farmer of Pleasant township; Daisy, the wife of Frank Huffine, who resides in Van Wert; Olive, at home; Louis, married, who resides on the home place; John R., single, who also resides on the old homestead; Hal and William.

Mr. Chambers is affiliated with the Republican party and has always taken a good citizen's interest in township and county affairs. The county commissioners are selected from a body of substantial, reliable and representative citizens, and Mr. Chambers has been a member of this board since 1904. Fraternally he is a Mason.

GEORGE W. GRIMM, one of the oldest and best known citizens of Van Wert County, settled on a tract of 80 acres in section 18, Ridge township, about 35 years ago, and has since been identified with the farming interests of that community. He is a son of Andrew and Annie (Reisley) Grimm, both natives of Stark County, Ohio, where George W. was born March 22, 1842. At the age of 19 years he located in Jefferson County, Ohio, which was his home until he came to Van Wert County, in 1871. Upon first locating here, Mr. Grimm operated a sawmill and later devoted himself to farming, his success in that line making him one of the leading agriculturists in the township.

On October 11, 1866, occurred the marriage of George W. Grimm and Sarah J. Wallace of Jefferson County. Mrs. Grimm is a daughter of Hugh and Martha (Stone) Wallace, the former a native of Jefferson County, and the latter, o of Maryland. His wife is a

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consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of Van Wert, and a lady of high Christian character; Mr. Grimm himself being identified with the Evangelical Association of this city, in which he has held a number of offices. To this worthy couple five children have been born, as follows : Cora J., wife of R. A. Arnold of Defiance County, Ohio; Anna L., deceased ; Bertha L., who is living at home; John C., a resident of Washington township; and Chalmer, also residing at home. Mr. Grimm is an active worker in the Grange, having held numerous offices in that body—any movement which has as its object the good of the agricultural element being sure of his sympathy and support.

WILLIAM SCHUMM, a worthy member of one of the old and substantial families of Willshire township, resides on his well-improved homestead of Too acres, in section 26, and is a son of Frederick and Magdalena (Meyer) Schumm, being born on an adjacent farm September 16, 1840. The father was a native of Rupercoven, Wurtemberg, Germany, born April 24, 1814, and in 1833 accompanied his father, John Schumm, to America, settling in Holmes County Ohio. He purchased a farm there and conducted it for five years, after which he came to Van Wert County with his father, who entered 800 acres of land, and gave each of his five children a quarter section. Frederick Schumm was a hardworking man and made considerable progress in clearing up his property, which he later traded to his brother-in-law, buying the property situated in section 26, adjoining on the north the tract now occupied by his son. William. On that he resided until his death cm August 6, 1902. Being naturally an accumulative man and assisted in his thrift by a very capable wife, he one time owned 500 acres of land, and possessed ample means to have increased his acreage to 1,000 had he so desired. He gave but slight attention to matters outside of his farming, with the exception of religious affairs, being for years one of the pillars of the Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Frederick Schumm's wife, formerly Magdalena Meyer, was born in Germany and came to the United States when she was eight years old, her parents settling in Philadelphia. As her parents were poor, she entered the employ of a French baker, and when he removed his business to Holmes County, Ohio, she accompanied the family. There she met Frederick Schumm, who was also in the employ of the Frenchman, and later they were married. The wife lived until the spring of 1897, dying at the age of 78 years, the mother of 12 children, namely : A child who died in infancy ; William, of this sketch ; John, who died soon after his removal to Memphis, Tennessee ; Frederick, of Black Creek, Mercer County, Ohio; Katherine (Stamm), of Pittsburg, Kansas; Jacob, who died aged 14 years ; Hannah (Zimmerman), of Chicago ; Mary (Zimmerman), of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Louis, of Van Wert ; George F., of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Barbara, single, who remained with her parents until they died, and now lives at Fort Wayne, Indiana; Henry M., of Colorado; and Ferdinand G. C., minister of a Lutheran Church in New York City.

When he was 18 years old, William Schumm began to learn the carpenter's trade and also assisted on the home farm until he was 23 years of age, when he started out as an independent workman and was employed at his trade until 1900. As soon as his sons became old enough, he placed the operation of the

572 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY

farm in their hands and continued to work at his trade, but has been practically retired since the year above named. Since 1891 he has owned his present farm of too acres and has all but 15 acres of it under fine cultivation. A very comfortable modern home has taken the place of the little shanty which stood on the land when he came here, and he has erected a number of other substantial structures for housing his stock and grain. Through careful cultivation his land is very productive and yields him ample returns.

In 1874 William Schumm was married to Maria Heffner, who was born in Mercer County, Ohio, December 7, 1855, and is a daughter of George and Sophia (Martin) Heffner, natives of Germany. They have a happy, healthy and prosperous family of to children, the circle never having been broken by death, the following being a brief record of its members : Amelia: wife of William A. Koch, of West Cairo, Ohio; Hugo H. and Otto G. (twins), both of Chicago; Rudolph Alexander, of Jackson, Michigan ; Theodore, of Black Creek township, Mercer County ; Conrad A., of Harrison township, Van Wert County; Bertha O., wife of H. W. Garrison, of Marion, Ohio, and Paul E., Oscar and Julia, all at home.

Politically Mr. Schumm has been a lifelong Democrat, but takes only the interest of a citizen who desires good men in office. He is a member of the German Evangelical Lutheran Church, of which his father was one of the founders. As one of the faithful religious pioneers of his section, he can remember the little log cabin church, which was built 60 years ago, but which has long since given place to a substantial edifice. All the Schumms are consistent in both their religious sentiments, and their political sympathies, all being Democrats and all Lutherans, and no family of this township is held in higher esteem. A group picture of the family of Mr. and Mrs. William Schumm accompanies this sketch.

ROBERT C. FLEMMING, M. D., coroner of Van Wert County and one of the leading physicians and surgeons of Van Wert, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in March, 1877, and is a son of Robert and Cornelia (Peeples) Flemming, his father being a contractor of Cincinnati.

Dr. Flemming was educated along literary lines in the schools of his native State, and after a thorough course of professional preliminary reading, entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Baltimore, Maryland, where he was graduated in 1900. During 1900-01 he was a member of the hospital staff of the City Hospital of Baltimore and subsequently took post-graduate courses, first in New York and later in Berlin. He settled in Van Wert in 1902, and since 1903 he has been county coroner. Dr. Flemming is the senior member of the firm of Flemming & Church, physicians and surgeons, whose well appointed offices are to be found in the Home Guards Temple, Van Wert. He is house physician of the Marsh Hotel, of this 'city, and is a member of the Van Wert Medical Society. He keeps thoroughly informed and in close touch with all the professional organizations of the country and is a progressive member of his calling. In politics he is a Republican ; in 1903 was appointed to fill the unexpired term as coroner; in 1904 he was his party's choice for that office and was elected for a term of two years. Religiously he is a Presbyterian. He is thoroughly educated and he possesses those strong and sterling characteristics that win attention from

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thoughtful and observant people. Fraternally Dr. Fleming belongs to a number of the leading societies, being a Mason, an Elk, Eagle and Knight of Pythias.

JOHN S. GOEBEL, a prosperous agriculturist of Washington township, residing on his fine farm of 77 acres, located in section 22, was born in Findlay, Hancock County, Ohio, September 12, 1853. He is a son of Joseph and Kundigunda (Foxenburg) Goebel ; his parents both being natives of Germany, where they were reared and married. They emigrated to America in 1844 and located in East Findlay, Hancock County, Ohio. Here they lived for nine years and in November, 1853 removed to Van Wert County. After selling nine lots which he owned in East Findlay, he took the money and purchased a farm of 80 acres in Washington township, for which he paid $600—this being considered a very high price in those days. During the summer of 1853 he had built a cabin of round logs on the farm, and on November 2nd permanently located there. The family occupied this cabin for nearly 30 years. Mr. and Mrs. Goebel had six children: Casper, who lives in Marion township, Allen County, Ohio; Mary, wife of George Sendelbach of Washington township; Joseph, Jr., now deceased ; Frances ; who married John Sharp and is now deceased ; and Caroline, who is unmarried and lives with John S.

John S. Goebel was raised on his father's farm in Washington township, assisting his father in clearing the land and making many improvements on the place, and individually obtaining such an education as the schools of that locality afforded. His independent careeras a farmer has been continuous and successful.

On October 8, 1874, Mr. Goebel was married to Gertrude Morkoetter, a daughter of Balse and Mary Morkoetter, both natives of Germany, who were among the early settlers and taxpayers of Washington township, having located there in 1845. Mr. and Mrs. Goebel have had 12 children, nine of whom are still living, namely : Mary, wife of John Scherger of Delphos, who has two children—Leona and Ruth; Frances, who married (first) Jacob Frederick and became the mother of one child —Gertrude—and after Mr. Frederick's death, the wife of Robert Fosnought, by whom she had one child—Marie; Lena, wife of Frank Depinet, who had two children—Albine and Josephine; Josephine, Eleanor, Martha, Henrietta and Agnes, all unmarried ; and Joseph, Jr. Elizabeth, Johnnie and Anthony are the deceased children. The family are all members of St. John's Catholic Church at Delphos.

C. C. CLARK, of the firm of James Clark & Son, leading shoe dealers, located at No. 102 West Main street, Van Wert, stands as one of the city's representative business men. He was born February 9, 1853, at Van Wert, and this city has been his lifelong place of residence. He is a son of James and Annie W. (Wilson) Clark.

Mr. Clark belongs to one of Van Wert's old families, his grandfather, Samuel McKnight Clark, coming to Van Wert in 1838, opening the first blacksmith shop and gun store here and also conducting a hotel. His establishment was located on the corner of Main and Washington streets. Samuel M. Clark

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married Lydia Daugherty, and their children weft: : John W., William A., James, Steward B., Reuben, Margaret and Samuel.

James Clark, father of C. C., was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, April 30, 1832, and died at Van Wert, January 31, 1904. He accompanied his parents hither in 1838, and in 1852 founded the present shoe business conducted by his son. The elder Clark was identified with this line from the age of 15 years until his death, his older brother, William A., having taken him into his employ at that early age. James subsequently bought his brother's interest. Later he admitted C. P. Richey to partnership, and the firm style was Clark & Richey until 1875, when Mr. Richey sold his interest to his son, G. W. Richey and to C. C. Clark, the son of the senior partner. For one year the firm name was Clark, Richey & Company, when C. C. Clark purchased Mr. Richey's interest and the present firm name was adopted. Our subject's mother now has an interest in the business.

The late James Clark was more or less prominent in political life for many years, serving efficiently in various township offices. When 18 years of age he married Annie W. Wilson, who was reared in Shelby County, Ohio. The children born to them were as follows : C. C.; Kate, wife of E. J. Pennypacker, of Virginia; Emma, wife of Judge A. A. Frazer, of Zanesville, Ohio; John O., a commercial traveler ; Lucy, who died aged '14 years; and Horace W., who is a clerk in the employ of our subject.

When about 16 years of age C. C. Clark completed his course in the public schools of Van Wert, and then went on the bench in his father's shop. After learning the practical part of the manufacturing business, he became a clerk for his father and later a partner, when he was given the entire management of the establishment. The business has been conductedat the same stand for over 30 years and "Clark's Shoe Store" is one of the landmarks of the city. For some years Mr. Clark has been a member of the Board of Education, and at the recent election was chosen clerk of that body. Politically he is a Republican.

In 1876 Mr. Clark was united in marriage with Frances Major, who was born in Van Wert County, and is a daughter of Willis and Martha J. Major. They have three children, viz : Mamie, wife of E. E. Scott, a postal clerk at Van Wert; Vesta, who lives at home; and Ralph R., who assists his father in the store. With his family, Mr. Clark worships at the English Lutheran Church, while his fraternal connections are with the Knights of Pythias, the Home Guards of America and the Royal Arcanum.

JOHN SHIRACK owns and operates a very productive and well-improved farm of 80 acres, 40 acres of which are situated in section 2, Washington township, and the remaining 40 acres directly across the road from his residence in section 35, Monterey township, Putnam County, Ohio. He was born in Prussia, Germany, June 24, 1840, and was a son of Anthony and Catherine Shirack.

When only five years of age John Shirack came to America in a sailing vessel with his parents, the family first settling in Hancock County, Ohio, on a farm of 80 acres, where they lived for two years and in which locality our subject received his early schooling. When he was about 12 years of age his parents sold their farm in Hancock County and purchased a homestead of 120 acres in Seneca County. Ohio, where he completed his education. In 1859 his father sold his farm in Seneca County

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and settled on a farm of Z40 acres on the banks 'of the Little Auglaize River, part of which is now occupied by our subject. His mother died in Hancock County when he was 10 years old, his father passing away in Washington township.

On May 3, 1864, John Shirack was married at Ottoville, Putnam County, to Catherine Schulien, daughter of Matthias and Mary (Petry) Schulien. Mrs. Shirack was also born in Prussia, and when four years of age came to America with her parents. They first settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, and in 1857 moved to Putnam County, where they passed the remainder of their days. Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Shirack moved into the house which is still occupied by them. They have had nine children; John M.; Mrs. Mary Grubenhoff; Mrs. Katie Eichold; Mrs. Tillie Droll; Anna (Mrs. Henry Kehres) ; Mrs. Emma Sheibley; Mrs. Maggie Wannemacher ; Joseph, who married Anna Schneider and has one child—Maletius; and Charles, who died an infant. The family are all members of the Catholic Church, at Ottoville.

SAMUEL B. HERTZ, of Van Wert, has recently retired from business after more than 40 years spent here as a hardware merchant; his reputation for honesty and integrity has grown with the years, until he is one of the most highly esteemed, as well as popular, citizens of the city. Mr. Hertz was born near Lewisburg, Union County, Pennsylvania, August 3, 1832, and is of German descent, his paternal great-grandparents being emigrants from the Fatherland. His immediate ancestors were John and Mary (Keim) Hertz, both natives of Pennsylvania, for many years being farmers in that State,and finally removing to Van Wert where they died, both having reached the advanced age of 85 years. Of their children, seven grew to adult years, namely : Uriah Washington, a prominent physician, who died in California in 1890; Joseph J., a farmer residing south of Van Wert; Samuel B., the subject of this article; Eve Ann (Heinley), who resides in Lyons, Kansas; Mary B. (Specht), a resident of Pennsylvania until her death about a year ago; Lydia C. (Spangler), deceased; and John L., a resident of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Samuel B. Hertz remained in Pennsylvania during the first 30 years of his life, part of the time as an agriculturist, and the last nine years of that period engaged in teaching school. On January 1; 1863, he moved to Van Wert, where he has been an honored citizen ever since. In company with his brother, U. W., he started the hardware store of Hertz Brothers, which they conducted together for about three years, when our subject purchased his brother's interest and from that time carried on the establishment alone until 1902, when he disposed of the stock and retired from active business life. Some two years later he also sold the building which was situated on Main street, and which is now being replaced by a handsome business block.

On October 4, 1855, Mr. Hertz was married to Ellen R. Rank, who was born January 18 1837, in Union County, Pennsylvania, being a daughter of Jonathan and Mary Ann (Dieffenderfer) Rank, both of whom were also natives of Pennsylvania. Their family consists of an adopted daughter,. Edna, who married William B. Trout and resides with Mr. and Mrs. Hertz. The family residence, a view of which appears in the historical department of this work, is among the most attractive in the city, and was erected, in 1890, on the site of the old house, which was built by Mr. Hertz