Samuel & Rebecca Milligan WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 673 died at six months of age; Margaret A., now the widow of Joseph Furster, of Fostoria; Emma, who married Isaac Dicken, and died in Fostoria; James and Joseph B., farmers in Montgomery township; Mary J., now the wife of Fred Whitman, of Oro Grande, Cal. ;Louisa, married to George Arnold, of Montgomery township; Jesse, who wedded Alta Byers, of Risingsun, and lives in Perry township; Orvilla, married to Ovid Byers, of Risingsun; and Arminta and Ira J., both at home. Increasing prosperity has enabled Mr. Milligan to assist his children substantially, and they are well- fitted for useful places in life. In September, 1892, Mr. Milligan bought a home in Risingsun, and has since resided there, enjoying a well-earned leisure. Both he and his estimable wife have greatly impaired health by reason of their years of hard work, and it is fortunate indeed that their later days can see the reward of their labors. In spite of all the exposures and hardships our subject has experienced, he has never yet, with the exception of one occasion, required medical attention. They have been members of the Old-school Baptist Church for thirty-six years, and are devout and consistent in their faith, their high character, no less their past labors, gaining for them the esteem of all who know them. Although Mr. Milligan is a Democrat on State and National issues, he uses his judgment as to the relative fitness of the individual candidates in local politics. He has served two terms as township trustee, and for a number of years he was school director in District No. 7, where he did much to advance the cause of education, his own lack of opportunities in youth making him desire that the children of this and future days should be within the reach of thorough and practical instruction. JOHN DAVIS. The essential qualities of success are not fortunate circumstances and influential friends, but indefatigable energy, industry that stops not at difficulties, a resolute purpose and perseverance. These qualities Mr. Davis possesses, and he is known as one of the leading farmers of Middleton township. He was born in Monroe county, Ohio, January 20, 1842. His father, Michael Davis, was born in Pennsylvania, where he followed the occupation of farming, .and married Catherine Basinger, a native of Germany. Of their union the following children were born: John, Christian, Fannie and Rebecca. The father died in Monroe county, Ohio, and the mother afterward married Jacob Hiphire. Mr. Davis, of this review, spent his boyhood in the usual manner of farmer lads, attending school in the winter and working on the farm during the summer months, in Putnam county, Ohio. When only eight years of age, he was thrown upon his own resources, and worked on a farm for his board until fourteen years of age, when he began receiving wages. He was employed at farm work and on the canals until thirty-three years of age, when he came to Wood county, locating in Middleton township, where he purchased seventy acres of unimproved land. This he cleared and transformed into finely cultivated fields, and to-day he owns and operates a valuable farm of ninety acres, improved with good buildings. In 1875, in Putnam county, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Davis and Magdalena Mosier, a native of Allen township, and a daughter of John Mosier. One child graces their marriage Edward, who was born August 10. 1878, was educated in the common schools, and now aids in the work of the farm. For six years our subject has served as school director, and is a warm friend of the cause of education. In politics he is a Democrat, and with his family attends the Lutheran Church in Waterville. Dependent on his own resources from the early age of eight years, he certainly deserves great credit for himself, and to-day he has the consciousness of knowing that he has not a dollar that he has not himself honestly earned. He is a popular citizen, well liked, and is deserving of honorable mention in the history of his adopted county. J. L. KRAMER, a progressive and intelligent agriculturist residing near Bowling Green, was born in Hancock county, Ohio, February 3, 1855. Levi Kramer, his father, was a native of Fairfield county, born in 1825. For many years he was a contractor and builder near Columbus, Ohio, but in his later years he engaged in agricultural pursuits, first in Hancock county, and then in Wood county, where he died in 1888. He was married, in 1850, to Miss Margaret Beatty, who was born in Franklin county in 1828. She survives him and resides at the homestead, near Bowling Green. Six children were born of this union, our subject being the eldest. Mr. Kramer's youth was spent chiefly in Hancock county, and after acquiring an elementary education in the schools near his home, he entered the academy at Fostoria, from which he was graduated February 3, 1881. He was married October 28, 1887, to Miss Christiana Ries, who was born in Huron county, April 8, 1867; she is a WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 674 very clever woman intellectually, and had taught school up to the time of her marriage. In this union 'intellect as well as heart are mated, and Mr. and Mrs. Kramer are students together on all the questions of the day, and the best books and periodicals are to be found in their happy home. Both are prominent workers in the Wood County Farmers Institute, of which Mrs. Kramer, a lady of considerable business tact, is now secretary. She has been highly complimented by the press upon her able and scholarly addresses and papers on various occasions, Mr. Kramer held the office of secretary for six years previous to 1889, when his wife succeeded him. He is an energetic and enterprising business man, owning and operating a farm where he puts scientific theories to the test of practice. He and his wife are active members of the U. B. Church at Portage, taking especial interest in the Sunday-school, of which Mr. Kramer has been superintendent for six years, and Mrs. Kramer, a good musician, is the organist. JOHN MERCER, whose well-cultivated farm indicates his industrious and energetic nature, was born April 4, 1831, in Columbiana county, Ohio, and is a son of George Mercer, a native of Pennsylvania, who came to Wood county, in 1833, locating in Liberty township, where his remaining days were passed. Our subject was therefore only two years of age when he became a resident of this county. Upon his father's farm he spent the days of his boyhood and youth, early becoming familar with the labors of the fields. He remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority, when he began learning the carpenter's trade, which he followed for three years. With the capital he acquired through his own efforts, he then purchased l00 acres of land in Liberty township, and with characteristic energy began its development and improvement. This work he continued until 1885, when he removed to his present farm in Middleton township. He here owns sixty acres of rich and valuable land, and a fine residence and good barns add to its attractive appearance, and make it a very desirable property. All this he has acquired through his own efforts, and he may well be proud of his well merited success. On April 13, 1858, Mr. Mercer was united in marriage, in Middleton township, with Amanda Creps, a native of Perrysburg, Ohio, born November 26, 1833, and a daughter of David and Rosanna (All) Creps. They became the parents of nine children, namely: Emma A., born February 15, 1859, wife of Henry E. Morris; Shebner A., born May 19, 1862, a farmer of Liberty township; Owen, born June 3, 1865, a farmer of Jackson township; Leonard S., born August 21, 1871, operating the old homestead; Milla, born November 6, 1875, Walter, who was born September 20, 1860, and died February 28, 1864; Clara A., who was born May 29, 1867, and died in January, 1873; and two who died in infancy. Mr. Mercer has several times been called to public office by his fellow townsmen, who recognize his worth and ability. He has served as trustee for six years, was school director for ten years, and a member of the township board of education for eight years. He belongs to the Disciples Church, and gives his political support to the Republican party. In all the relations of life he has been found true and faithful to the trust reposed in him, and his friends throughout the community are many. J. H. WESTERFIELD, a leading farmer of Montgomery township, was born in Scipio township, Seneca Co., Ohio, November 27, 1853, son of J. William and Catherine (Overholt) Westerfield, both of whom were natives of Hanover, Germany, the former born in February, 1811, and the latter in November, 1816. In that country the name is spelled Westerfieldt. Being the son of poor parents, the father received no aid in starting out in life for himself, and in the fall of 1853, with his little family, he started for the New World in hope of improving his financial condition. After a voyage of seven weeks they landed in this country, and made their first home in Seneca county, Ohio. From there they came, in 1868, to Wood county, locating upon a thirty-five-acre tract of land in Section 2, Montgomery township, in the midst of the wilderness, where a modest log cabin served as their home. In the family were five children, namely: Mary E., who became the wife of Reuben Kiser, and died in Sandusky county, Ohio, March 24, 1869; Engle, who died at sea, October 28, 1853, while the family were coming to America; J. H., the subject of this sketch; William, a farmer of Montgomery township; and Amanda, now Mrs. Frank E. Wirebaugh, of Montgomery township. The parents are both now deceased, the father dying October 29, 1889, and the mother January 6, 1888, and rest in the Bradner cemetery. Religiously they were Lutherans. The mother, who was strong and robust, was a good weaver, and was of great assistance to her husband in early days. At the time of his death he was the owner of a good farm of seventy-five acres, and WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 675 possessed all the thrifty habits characteristic of the German race. His ballot was cast in support of the Democratic party. The common schools afforded our subject his educational privileges, and his labors were devoted to the improvement and cultivation of the home farm until he attained his majority, when he began working at the carpenter's trade, which he followed for three years. In the spring of 1879 he purchased forty acres in Section 1, Montgomery township, from George Bierly, for $2,000, for which he was compelled to go in debt over $1, 500. On laying aside his trade, he began working as a farm hand for that gentleman, and on January 5, 1882, married his daughter, Miss Malinda E. Bierly, who was born February 3, 186o, and they now have four children-Bertie R., Addie, Helena and Milo. Mr. Westerfield began his domestic life upon his forty-acre farm, where he has since resided. In 1885 was erected his comfortable dwelling, and six years later his barn was built. He is numbered among the self-made men of Montgomery township, his accumulations being the result of his own industry, obtained by self-denial and economy, and the exercise of a naturally good judgment, both in regard to agricultural pursuits and business matters. Though riot strictly partisan, he usually supports the Democratic party, and for nine consecutive years served as a member of the Bradner school board, filling that position when the new building at that place was completed; for two years he was president of the board. An active member of the Lutheran Church, he is at present superintendent of the Sunday-school at Bradner; his excellent wife belongs to the Protestant Methodist Church. George Bierly, the father of Mrs. Westerfield, was born in Miles township, -Center Co., Penn., July 17, 1819, and as there were no free schools his education was limited to four weeks' attendance at English schools, but he received considerable instruction at Sunday-school. At the age of eighteen years he learned the wheelwright and wagon-maker's trades. On April 25, 1844, in Center county, Penn., was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Bierly and Miss Sarah Magee, who was born in Union county, that State, and is the daughter of James and Elizabeth (Buchner) Magee, in whose family were seven children, three sons and four daughters. Her father came from Londonderry, Ireland, to the United States at the age of fifteen years, being eleven weeks upon the ocean, and was married in Union county, Penn. By trade he was a weaver, making carpets, table cloths, etc. Both himself and wife died in Center county, Penn., he at the age of sixth-three years, and she at the age of eighty-eight. With his wife Mr. Bierly came to Wood county, April 2, 1857, locating on a partially improved tract of eighty acres in Section 1, Montgomery township, for which he paid $2, 700 cash, and they still live upon that place. They have now traveled life's journey together for over fifty-two years, sharing its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity, and are still well-preserved old people, highly respected by all who know them. In early life Mr. Bierly was a Democrat, but since Lincoln ran for the Presidency has been a stalwart Republican. His wife holds membership with the Methodist Protestant Church. The following children graced the union of Mr. and Mrs. Bierly-Alfred and Edward, who died in infancy; Cyrus, at home; Nancy, wife of Peter Plants, of Bradner, Ohio; Lorenzo D., who died at the age of twenty-one years; Thomas N., of Wood county; Emma E., now the widow of F. S. Furbrush, of Bradner; and Malinda E., who is the only member of the family born in Ohio, and is now the wife of J. H. Westerfield, whose name introduces this sketch. F. E. WIREBAUGH, an agriculturist of energy and ability, who is residing in Montgomery township, Wood county, was born near Bucyrus, Ohio, May 6, 1863, and when but a boy was brought to this county by his parents, N. P. and Elizabeth (Anderson) Wirebaugh, who located first in Freedom township, thence removing to Section 30, Montgomery township. Later they took up their residence upon a farm in Section 17, of the same township, and on selling out there located in Section r, Montgomery township, where the father made his home until his removal to Risingsun, Ohio, his present place of abode. The mother died while living near Bradner, this State. In their family were four children-F. E., of this sketch; Charles E., who died at the age of twenty-two years; Laura, now Mrs. Charles Aldrich, of Toledo; and Bert E., of Risingsun. Since the death of his first wife the father has been again married. The education of our subject was such as the district schools near his home afforded, and during the days of his youth he assisted in the labors of the farm, thus becoming familiar with his chosen calling. On leaving home, at the age of twenty-one years, he started out in life for himself as a farm hand. In April, 1888, in Freeport township, Mr. Wirebaugh was united in marriage with Miss Amanda Westerfield, who was born 676 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. June 3, 1861, in Scipio township, Seneca Co., Ohio, and is the youngest child of J. William and Catherine (Overholt) Westerfield. One child now graces their union Walter R., whose birth occurred December 15, 1894. Mr. Wirebaugh began his domestic life upon a rented farm in Freedom township, and later one year was passed upon a rented farm in Section 1, Montgomery township. In the spring of 1891 he removed to his present place, then comprising fifteen acres, but now has a fine tract of thirty-five acres, under a high state of cultivation. In 1893 he remodeled the house, which was the old homestead of his wife's people, and now has a very comfortable and attractive dwelling. Besides his agricultural pursuits he also has charge of two oil leases, having a general supervision of affairs and looking after the oil pumping. Mr. Wirebaugh is a decided Democrat, but is no politician in the sense of office seeking, preferring to devote his entire time to his business interests. An industrious and enterprising man who has already won success, we feel assured that he is destined to become one of the substantial citizens of Wood county. His estimable wife is a member of the Lutheran Church. ABRAHAM KEEFER, one of the oldest pioneers of Perry township, and a most estimable citizen, was born July 23, 1822, in Orange township, Richland Co., Ohio, son of William and Barbara (Kreps) Keefer. Our subject, who is the eldest son, when old enough assisted in supporting his parents. He went to school in Orange township until seventeen years of age, at which time he came to Wood county, which was then, for the most part, a dense forest. On December 22, 1844, he was united in marriage with Miss Christina Bare, a daughter of Nicholas Bare, and a native of Pennsylvania. At that time he was $25 in debt, and owned an axe, a wedge and a wife. He was to have, for the clearing, forty acres of land to use for ten years. Commencing work in Section 28, he secured from the profits of this hard bargain a beginning in life, and upon the expiration of the time he left the land and moved to forty acres in Section 21, which he had bought two years before at a cost of $450. Ten acres of this were cleared and had on it a log house, the first home he ever had that he could call his own. From this time he worked and prospered, and later on added, at different times, forty and eighty acres more. In July, 1858, before the last purchase of eighty acres, he moved to his present place, which then contained a log hut, and in July of the following year he moved into the house he now occupies. To Mr. and Mrs. Keefer were born the following children: Eliza J., who died in infancy; M. D., who died in Perry township at the age of thirty-eight, leaving five children; Catherine, married to I. C. Conley, of Perry township; William, who died at the age of ten years; Nancy, who died when seven years old. The mother of these died April 29, 1889, and was buried at Center. On May 10, 189I, Mr. Keefer married Mrs. Eliza (Wiseman) Frink, a native of Washington township, Hancock Co., Ohio, who was a. daughter of James and Elizabeth (Sommers) Wiseman. This wife died May 19, 1896, at 2.30 A. M. The previous day she had prepared supper for herself and her husband, conducted the family worship that evening, and retired feeling as well as usual. She is buried in the cemetery at Fostoria. Mr. Keefer first voted the Democratic ticket; but on the formation of the Republican party he joined it, and in 1892 again changed his political views, and voted in the ranks of the Prohibitionists. He has served as treasurer and trustee of Perry township, as the choice of the Republican party. He is a member and one of the pillars of the Union Methodist Church, to which he has belonged since 1858, and has been a class-leader for thirty-two consecutive years. At present he is one of the trustees, and is a most liberal contributor to the Church work. On May 2, 1864, he enlisted in Company E, 144th Regiment, of which he was first lieutenant, doing guard duty at Wilmington, Del., and serving until August 24, 1864. He is a quiet gentleman, well-preserved, and an earnest worker in the cause of Prohibition. He enjoys the best of health, and, at the age of seventy-three years, " Does not know of an ache or pain." He is the owner of 16o acres of excellent land, which he has drained with 3, 30o rods of tile, and all but thirty acres of which he has cultivated from its primitive condition. William Keefer, father of our subject, was born in October, 1801, in Mahoning county. His parents moved from Pennsylvania to Richland county at an early day, and settled in Orange township (now Ashland county). Mr. Keefer left there for Perry township, where he bought eighty acres in Section 28. He and his wife moved into a small cabin of round logs, with clapboard roof, no doors nor floors, the hearth made of mortar, under which a groundhog had burrowed and made his, home. The only clearing on the place was the spot oc Abraham Keefer WOOD COUNTY, OHIO.. - 677 cupied by the cabin. There was wild game in abundance, bears, turkeys, etc. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Keefer were : Abraham, our subject; Mary, now the widow of Peter Bare, of Eaton county, Mich. ; Barbara, who married Eli Culbertson, and died in Eaton county; Margaret, who married Andrew Burns, of Eaton county, and is deceased; Catherine, who became the wife of John Hays, and died in Henry county, Ohio; John, who enlisted July 30, 1862, in Company B, 111th Regiment, O. V. I., and was taken prisoner in action at Lenoir, Tenn., November 16, 1863, and died in a Rebel prison at Richmond, March 20, 1864; and Christopher, a farmer, in Perry township. Mrs. Keefer died October, in 1837, and was buried in Richland county. Mr. Keefer, for his second wife, wedded Miss Barbara Bare, by whom he had four children: Christina, who died young; Susan, who became the wife of Frank McConnell, and died in Toledo, Ohio; Sarah (now Mrs. William Fox), of Defiance county, Ohio; and Eliza (Mrs. Albert Becker), who died in Toledo. Mr. Keefer departed this life in Perry township, at the age of sixty-four years; Mrs. Keefer died about 1849, and both are buried at Center, Perry township. Mr. Keefer was at one time a Democrat, and later became a Republican, belonging to that party at the time of his death. He was a member of the Lutheran Church when in Pennsylvania, but as there was no Church of that denomination convenient in Perry he joined the Methodist one. He was a man of few words, a hard worker, and possessed of a peaceable disposition. ALLEN S. FERGUSON comes of a family whose loyalty and devotion to the country was well manifested during the Civil war, and in all the relations of life our subject has been found true and faithful to the trusts reposed in him. This Ferguson family is of Irish origin, and was founded in America by Samuel Ferguson, the grandfather of our subject, who was born on the Emerald Isle and crossed the Atlantic when a young man. In Pennsylvania, he wedded Mary Miller, a lady of German extraction. He was a weaver by trade, and followed that business during the greater part of his life. His death occurred in Belmont county, Ohio, at a ripe old age. The father of our subject, James Ferguson, was born in Pennsylvania, and was a millwright by trade. At the age of eighteen he accompanied his parents to Belmont county, where he wedded Mary Scroggs, a lady of Scotch descent. For two years they lived in Shepherdstown, Ohio, and then removed to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, locating near Cumberland, on Conotton creek. In 1853 they came to Wood county, making the journey by team, and the father entered forty acres of land in Section 33, Jackson township, from the government, and erected thereon a log cabin. He afterward worked at his trade in different parts of the State, but died in Jackson township, October 28, 1878. His wife passed away some years previous. They had seven children, namely: John, a farmer in Jackson township; Allen S.; Eliza Jane, deceased wife of Demos Leatherman, of Jackson township; James M., a farmer of Jackson township; Sarah Ann, deceased wife of Jesse Ruff, of Jackson township; Samuel M., of Jackson township; and Mrs. Cynthia Wright, deceased. The father and all of his sons were soldiers in the Civil war. John was a member of Company G, 21st O. V. I., and later of Company K, 111th O. V. I. James M. belonged to Company L, 1st O. H. A.; and Samuel M. to Company K, 29th O. V. I. Our subject was a child of two years when the parents went to Tuscarawas county, where he acquired his education in the district schools, and learned the trade of a carpenter and millwright with his father. At the age of nineteen he came to Jackson township with his brother-in-law, Mr. Leatherman, for whom he worked during the summer. In the winter he engaged in hunting coons, deer and turkeys, and the game brought good prices in the city markets, he realizing more from this source of income than from any other work in those days. In Pleasant township, Hancock Co., Ohio, January 28, 1858, Mr. Ferguson married Alice Mitchell, who was born in Lancaster county, Penn., June 18, 1836, a daughter of Robert and Miriam (Butler) Mitchell. The family removed from Pennsylvania to Fairfield county, Ohio, thence to Hancock county, and subsequently to Jackson township, Wood county, where the parents passed away. Our subject and his wife began their domestic life on a farm in Jackson township. Mr. Ferguson purchased forty acres of land, erected a log cabin, and began to improve his property; but when the war broke out, he felt that his country needed his services, and he enlisted in Company G, 21st O. V. I., at McComb, for the three-months' service. When his term had expired he returned home and engaged in the erection of a school house. In June, 1863, Mr. Ferguson sold his first farm and purchased forty acres in Hancock county, to which he removed his family. He then re-enlisted in Company L, 1st O. H. A., and going again to the front, served until the 678 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. close of the war as a valiant defender of the Union cause. When he again came home he sold his Hancock county farm, and purchased eighty acres in Jackson township, Wood county, on which he erected two dwellings. He afterward traded ten acres of this property for forty acres of his father's land, and subsequently sold an additional ten acres. In connection with his brother, J. M., he also bought a forty-acre tract in Jackson township, and then traded the land which he received from his father for his brother's forty acres, so that he there had eighty acres. This he later sold, and bought forty acres of the farm which he now owns, and which he has since doubled ii extent. In addition he owns several town lots, and a third interest in the opera house in Hoytville, also eight shares in the creamery there. He is a man of excellent business ability, of sound judgment and sagacity. To Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson have been born five children-Eliza Jane, wife of John L. Tyner, of Jackson township; Aaron B., of Hoytville; Myrtie M., wife of Milton J. Hoot, of Hoytville; and Maud M., at home. Mr. Ferguson is a stalwart Republican and an active worker in his party. He was first called to public office as assessor, afterward served for three years as supervisor, for four years was trustee, two years township clerk, six years justice of the peace, census enumerator in 188o, and for six years as county infirmary director. He was also mayor of Hoytville for one term, and school director for a number of years. In these various positions he has discharged his duties with a promptness and fidelity that has won him high commendation. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity of Deshler, Ohio, and to the Grand Army of the Republic at Hoytville, and holds membership with the Christian Church. He is now living practically a retired life, enjoying a well earned rest and the fruits of his former toil. WILLIAM WESTERFIELD. Among the influential and progressive farmers of Montgomery township the subject of this sketch occupies an honorable position. He was born in Scipio township, Seneca Co., Ohio, on February 25, 1856, and is the son of John William and Catherine (Overholt) Westerfield, who brought him to Wood county during boyhood. His education was acquired in the district schools, which at that date were not as far advanced as at the present time. Early becoming familiar with farm work upon his father's place, he decided to follow that vocation throughout life, and assisted in the operation of the home farm until after the death of his parents. For a time he then worked for others, but in 1894 purchased twenty acres in Section 2, Montgomery township, adjoining another twenty acre tract, which was a part of the old homestead belonging to him. In 1891 he erected a very pleasant house upon his farm, where he now makes his home, and devotes his entire time and attention to the cultivation of his land. Although Mr. Westerfield regularly votes the Democratic ticket, and is a stanch supporter of his party, he cares nothing for political preferment. He is a steady-going, honest, industrious man, quiet and unassuming in manner, and has the confidence and regard of all who know him. By his earnest, persistent efforts he has now secured a good home and farm, and well deserves the success which has come to him. Besides his farming operations he has also worked at the carpenter's trade, being employed at tank building in Bradner. ELIJAH H. HOPPER, a well-known agriculturist of Webster township, was born in Lucas county, Ohio, June 1, 1841. His family is of English origin, and his grandparents, William and Mary Hopper, were lifelong residents of the county of Kent, England. George Hopper, our subject's father, was born there in 18o8, and in early manhood came to the United States, locating first in New York State, where he was married, in 1830, to Miss Annie Robbins, who was born in New York, June 12, 1808. Nine children were born to them: Rufus, deceased; William, deceased; Mary, the wife of Samuel Lyman, of Leesburg, Ind.; Priscilla; James J.; Elijah H; Luella, the wife of Fred Leathers, of Michigan; Augustus H., a resident of New York; and Benjamin, who lives in Toledo. In 1840 our subject's father came to Wood county, and bought 16o acres of land in Troy township, which he improved. He was a man of excellent qualities, much esteemed by those who knew him, a Republican in politics, and a member of the M. E. Church. He died in 1878, followed two years later by his wife. Mr. Hopper attended the district schools of Troy township during his boyhood, and in 1863 went to Webster township and bought ninety-six acres of fine land near Fenton, which he has since cultivated. His industry and frugality have met their due reward, and he now has a handsome residence and a barn of the latest model. He is chiefly engaged in general farming and stock raising. He was married in 1863 to Miss Catherine S. Allen, who was born in Sandusky county, in 1842. They have had four children, WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 679 two of whom died in infancy. The others are Mary, who married Adrian Hiser, and Ada, the wife of Eugene Morris, of Stony Ridge. In the year 1895, Mr. Hopper lost his barn and all of his out-buildings by fire, occasioned by combustion. He afterward sold his farm and purchased a vegetable and fruit farm in Findlay, Hancock Co., Ohio, upon which he and his wife moved, and where they still reside. Mr. Hopper holds a high place in the community, and has held positions of trust in the township most of the time for twenty years. He is a leading member of the M.. E. Church, and has been influential in the Sunday school for thirty-eight years. WILLIAM HEUER. In political office, in his business career, and in his private life this gentleman has ever displayed a fidelity to duty and high moral principle, that has justly gained him a place among the prominent and respected citizens of his adopted county, and it is with pleasure that we present to our readers the record of his life. He was born in Prussia, Germany, May 25, 1848, and is a son of Frederick and Mina (yoga) Heuer, also natives of Prussia. When a young man the father served as a soldier in the German army, being first called out in 1848, and after that, on two different occasions. In the spring of 1857, with his wife and family, he sailed from the Fatherland on the vessel "Marcus," which after nine weeks and three days dropped anchor in the harbor of New York. The voyage was a very stormy one, and the vessel was driven far from its course. Mr. Heuer took his family at once to Lorain county, Ohio, and purchased twenty-five acres in Sheffield township. This he afterward sold, and bought fifty-eight acres where he was living at the time of his death, in 1865, at the age of forty-nine years. His widow still lives in the old homestead, and has a life interest in the estate, which was sold by the heirs to the Johnson Steel Company, and a large plant has since been erected thereon. The children of the family were: William; Julius, of Lorain county; Harvey, who was drowned in 1885, at the age of twenty-five years; Charles, of Lorain county; Elizabeth, wife Andrew Robinson, of Lorain county; Mary, wife of J. L. Hohn, of Milton township; and John, of Lorain county. Our subject began his education in his native land, and completed it in the district schools near his early Ohio home. At the age of sixteen he left the parental roof, and engaged in service on freight boats which plied between the islands and Cleveland. He was afterward mate on a schooner for five months, and made a trip by way of the lakes to Quebec, Canada, with the intention of going to Prussia, but instead re-shipped on the old schooner, "Van Volkenberg," which sailed for San Francisco, Cal., stopping at different points on the way. The ship was laden with sugar and coffee, and at San Francisco took on a cargo of merchandise. His parents hearing no news of him supposed he had been lost at sea, but after the two-years' voyage of this schooner was over, he returned to his home, and engaged in the manufacture of cheese in Lorain county. Mr. Heuer was married in Elyria, Ohio, June 26, 1867, to Anna Maria Brown, who was born in Germany. They then removed to Berrien county, Mich., where Mr. Heuer purchased thirty-five acres of land which he operated until 1871, when his buildings and improvements were all destroyed by fire. He then sold his land and returned to Lorain county, where he operated the family homestead for two years. He next began work on the dock at Lorain, as foreman of the C. L. & W. Railroad Co., and continued in the employ of that company for fifteen years. In October, 1887, he traded his property there for his present farm of 10o acres in Milton township, and has since resided in Wood county. Only eight acres of this was then under cultivation, but he has made excellent improvements upon it, erected a fine residence and good barns, and the well-tilled fields yield to. him a golden tribute in return for his care and labor. To Mr. and Mrs. Heuer have been born three children-Lorenzo, an oil man of Bays, Ohio; William, who is working in the oil fields at Gibsonburg, Ohio; and Minnie, at home. The family attend the Disciples Church, of which our subject is a member. In politics he was formerly a supporter of the Republican party, but is now a stanch Prohibitionist. He has served his school district as director for some years, and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend, while to all interests calculated to benefit the community he gives a liberal support. He is himself a well-read man, and is ever found on the side of progress and advancement. SAMUEL B. CESSNA, an enterprising young business man and agriculturist of Montgomery township, residing near Risingsun, has already won a reputation for his industry, shrewdness, and able management of affairs. He was born in Bedford township, Bedford Co., Penn., September 13, 1862, the son of James B. and Margaret (Elliott) Cessna, and grandson of James 680 -WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. ha (deceased), who was sheriff of that county four years, and held the office of justice f the peace some forty years. The family has had a high standing in that locality for several generations, and the members for the most part have been long lived, the grandparents of our subject on both the paternal and maternal sides having attained the advanced ages of over eighty years. James B. Cessna, father of our subject, was born in Bedford, Bedford Co., Penn., September 28, 1838. In his younger days he taught school, and then took up farming pursuits, in in which he still continues, being owner of 360 acres of fine land in Bedford county, Penn., improved and equipped with substantial buildings. He married Miss Margaret Elliott, by whom he had four children, three sons and one daughter, viz.: Sylvester T., Samuel B., Pendleton A., and Alida Blanche, who died in her tenth month. The mother of these passed from earth at Centerville, Bedford county, June 6, 1896, in the sixty-second year of her age, and was buried in Bethel M. E. cemetery, in the Cumberland Valley. She was a strict member of the Methodist Episcopal Church up to the time of her decease. Mr. Cessna is now living in Centerville, Penn., his business and public cares having been laid aside some years ago. In his active days he held various township offices, and was an influential worker in the ranks of the Democratic party. Samuel B. Cessna, our subject, was reared as a farmer's boy, with the usual district-school advantages, and plenty of work at home. On attaining his majority he came to Fostoria, Ohio, where some relatives were living, and for two years rented a farm near Longley, Ohio. Although his father offered him 12o acres of land at. his early home in the Cumberland Valley, he chose to remain in this region, and in the spring of 1888 he purchased his present farm of eighty acres in Section 26, Montgomery township, where in 1893 he built an elegant residence, supplied with water and other conveniences seldom found outside of cities. Soon after coming to this county he engaged in various lines of work in the oil fields, such as rig-building and dressing tools, and at times as field-boss, pumper, and operator, and as he prefers this to the actual labor of the farm he employs others to attend to the latter, under his general supervision. Steady going, honest, industrious and progressive, his success has been marked, and he is regarded as certain to become one of the substantial men of his locality. In the fall of 1883, Mr. Cessna was married in Bedford, Penn., to Miss Emma Wertz, daughter of-John Wertz, one of the most prominent agriculturists in the Cumberland Valley. Mrs. Cessna is a leading member of the Church of God, and with her husband takes an interest in every worthy movement. Socially he belongs to Risingsun Lodge, K. of P., and politically he is a Democrat on the State and National issues, but in local elections votes for the "best man." ELIAS SIMON (deceased), who in his lifetime was one of the most highly respected citizens within the limits of Bloom township, is a fit representative of the honored family of that name. He was a son of Henry and Catherine (Stemple) Simon, the former of whom was born June 7, 1796, the latter on July 10, 1798; they were married October 5, 1822, and died May 15, 1872, and April 2, 1836, respectively. Mr. Simon was born August 12, 1827, in Mahoning county, Ohio, where he attended an excellent German school. When he was but a few months over seventeen years old his parents moved to Wood county, accompanied by five of their children-Jonas, Carolus, Elias, Abigail and Joshua. They drove through the woods with three wagons, bringing their household goods. Our subject's father had met with financial reverses in Mahoning county, and he made a new start in life upon a tract of eighty acres of timber land on what is now known as the North Ridge road. A rude log house, which he had built previously, furnished a shelter for the newcomers, and their first meal was cooked by the side of a brush heap. Our subject did many a hard day's work in clearing and breaking the soil of this farm, but he also found some time to attend an English school on the old Leathers farm, where Cornelius Simon, a cousin, was the first teacher. At the age of twenty-one he began to work on his own account, chopping and clearing for one year, and then working in a sawmill as a laborer. His savings were invested in 120 acres of land, his brother's estate, near Bairdstown, bought from the heirs, and its purchase left him nearly $ 1,000 in debt. On August 2, 1855, Mr. Simon was married to Miss Margaret Frankforder, a native of Springfield, Mahoning Co., Ohio, born March 15, 1837, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Kugler) Frankforder, who came to Wood county in 1852, and located on a farm in Weston township. They were both natives of Ohio, the father born May 11, 1805, in Springfield township, Mahoning county, the mother born August 11, 1804. They Elias Simon WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 681 were married August 27, 1826; the former died August I9, 1891, at Roca, Neb., the latter having passed away January 2, 1857, in Weston township, Wood Co., Ohio. The young couple began housekeeping upon the farm which became their permanent home. Mr. Simon continued to work in the sawmill and carried on his farm, at the same time hiring some of the work done. In 1864 he enlisted in Company E, 144th O. V. I., and was sent to Wilmington, Del., where he was on guard duty until August 22, 1864, when he was discharged at Columbus. In 1868 he built a sawmill upon his farm, and, notwithstanding many predictions of failure, his energy and thorough knowledge of the business enabled him to make a success of it, and in three years he had paid off every obligation. He has been noted for his knowledge of milling machinery, often repairing for others. In 1889 he gave up his mill to his sons, Jackson and Delton, who conducted it for some time. There are two oil wells upon the place, producing about fifteen barrels per day, and on this farm was drilled the second gas well in the township. Mr. Simon's right wrist had been strained by overwork in lifting, and he afterward lived a semi retired life, finding much pleasure in reading. He possessed strong intellectual powers, which should have been developed in youth. In 1878 he built one of the most substantial brick houses in the township, and his old home gives evidence not only of his worldly prosperity, but of his intellectual aspirations and artistic tastes. His wife had but limited educational facilities in her youth, but with ready adaptation she has availed herself of later opportunities at home, as her duties would permit. They have had five children: Mary E., born December 11, 1856, died February 6, 1857; Jackson, born March 16, 1858, now resides in Hancock county; Delton, born October 7, 1860, is farming the homestead and conducting the mill; Maud, born November 3, 1865, married Frank Elston, of Garrett, Ind., a Baltimore & Ohio railroad engineer, Chicago division; and Tressie, born August 9, 1875, now a successful music teacher, is at home. Elias Simon, the subject of this sketch, died at ten minutes past eleven in the forenoon of September 21, 1896, of apoplexy, and was laid to rest September 24, in Bloom Chapel cemetery, Bloom township. He, as is also his widow, was a leading member of the Liberal U. B. Church of Bairdstown, in which he held every office, and was the principal financial supporter. When the new church was being erected he loaned a large sum of money, and afterward canceled the debt. Mr. Simon was no office-seeker, but took a keen interest in public affairs, and was in early years a Republican, but in later years voted with the Prohibition party. JOHN LOUY is a strictly self-made man, who owes his success in life to his individual efforts, to enterprise, undaunted perseverance, and unfaltering industry. His career has also made him a man of broad sympathies, and he is ever ready to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate than himself. Mr.. Louy was born September 11, 1831, in Marzlich, near Trier, Prussia, and is the eldest of nine children born to Henry and Margaret (Kirche) Louy. The other members of the family are: Magdalena Clapper, of East Toledo, Ohio; Regina, widow of George Frische, of Toledo; Antony, a farmer of Milton township; Peter, deceased; Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Diemer, of Toledo; Henry (1), who died in childhood; Henry (2), also deceased; and Mary, who passed away. The father was a farmer id Prussia, and in 1862 came with his wife to America, landing at New York, whence they came direct to Milton township, Wood county, where they resided some years. They then removed to Toledo, Ohio, where his death occurred in October, 1867; his wife died in 1871. John Louy, the subject of this sketch, received a good education in the common schools of his native land, and at the age of fourteen began work as a farm hand at a shilling per day. He was thus employed until, coming to America. On April 12, 1855, he left home, sailing from Havre, France, on the 16th, on the vessel, "Connecticut," which after thirty-three days reached New York. One day, while crossing the deck, he fell down an open hatchway, and was picked up in an unconscious condition, with his shoulder broken. His clothing being removed in order to get at the hurt, someone managed to confiscate some gold coins he had sewed inside the lining of his vest his only capital. Just before landing he sold his trunk and bedding for eighteen cents, and this was all the money he had with which to begin life in the New World, and this small sum was expended for bread. He then started for Tiffin, Ohio. At Dunkirk, N. Y., he was obliged to wait for some time, and while gazing longingly at the tempting display in a restaurant window, the proprietor came out and asked him what he wanted. He was unable to speak a word of English, but the. owner took him to a house some distance away where a German girl was working, who acted as interpreter between the two. On learning that he was hungry, the man took him back to the 682 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. restaurant and gave him a good meal. After many hardships he reached his destination, but had to walk all the way from Sandusky to Tiffin, Ohio. He there made his home with his uncle, Nicholas Kirche, and after three weeks secured work in a brick yard. Later he was employed as a farm hand, and in grading the railroad near Lima, Ohio. He was afterward made section hand on the railroad, and subsequently served as brakeman. He was next engaged in laying track from Toledo to Lima, and then became section foreman from Toledo to Perrysburg. To Custar he was sent as section boss, and in a short time he became express and station agent at that place. On abandoning that position he embarked in merchandising, and later erected a large store into which he put an extensive stock of general merchandise, which he sold out. He became interested in the lumber business, and at one time owned two sawmills and a stave factory. He also bought and sold Boo acres of land, and has thus been connected with various business enterprises. Mr. Louy was married in Maumee, Ohio, September 16, 1860, to Miss Julia Ann Ganshirt, who was born in Kappal-am-Rhine, Baden, Germany. Their children are: John Henry, who was born September 15, 1861, and is chief train dispatcher at Lima, Ohio; Ellen, born August 4, 1863, now the wife of Henry Rechener, of Lima, Ohio; Josephine, born March 31, 1865, widow of Frank Drummer, of Lima, Ohio; Mary Ann, who was born December 23, 1867, and is living at Lima; Charles, born June 26, 1869, also a resident of Lima; Andrew William, born March 26, 1871, now a medical student at Toledo, Ohio; George Albert, born April 20, 1873, yard clerk for the Dayton & Michigan railroad, at Toledo, Ohio; Joseph H., born April 7, 1875, fireman on the Dayton & Michigan railroad, with residence at Lima, Ohio; Fred Ed was, born February 21, 1877, at present engaged in teaching; Frank Albert, born February 17, 1879, clerking for the Standard Oil Co., at Lima, Ohio; and Genevieve Wilhelmina, born March 15, 1881, now in a convent at Lima, Ohio. When our subject landed at Custar in 1859, there was but one Catholic family in the vicinity, that of Edward Byrnes, and the first mass was performed on the present site of that now thriving town, Father Bauer, D., of Fremont, Ohio, officiating, later in an old log cabin. Now there are seventy-two families who worship in the Catholic church at Custar. Mr. Louy is now living retired, enjoying the fruits of his former toil. He owns a valuable farm of eighty acres in Milton township, a large store building with hall rented, and a spacious and beautiful residence in Custar, which was erected in 1872, at a cost of $5,340.00. In politics he is a stanch Democrat, has been treasurer of Custar for two years, and councilman for two years. In religious belief he is a devout Catholic, and has been trustee of the Church. JAMES KELLEY, deceased, was one of the leading and influential citizens of Middleton township, and his death was felt by the entire community. A native of the Keystone State, he was born in Northumberland county, September 5, 1826, and was a son of Joseph and Mary (Reed) Kelley, also natives, of Pennsylvania, where they spent their entire lives. In his boyhood days their son James attended the district schools of the neighborhood, and aided in the labors of the home farm. In March, 1852, in Pennsylvania, Mr. Kelley was united in marriage with Miss Annie Palmer, who was born in that State June 14, 1825, a daughter of Daniel Palmer. Three children were born of this union. Daniel, born June 9, 1853, was educated in Middleton township, and at Toledo, Ohio, and in August, 1879, he married Ettie Chapman, who was born April 25, 1856, a daughter of Sylvester Chapman, of Sandusky county, Ohio. For nine years he has been an employe at the Toledo State Hospital. William, born April 16, 1857, now operates the old homestead. He was married in 1888, to Flora Camm, who was born in Huron county, April 8, 186o, and they have one daughter, Alta. Elwood, born in Plain township, this county, July 31, 1862, married Nellie Miller, and has two children. He has been employed at the Toledo State Hospital for seven years. The subject of this review removed from Pennsylvania to Wood county in 1862, and located in Plain township, where he remained one year, then moved to Hancock county, where he carried on farming for six years. In 1869 he came to Middleton township and purchased seventy-two acres of land, which, with the aid of his sons, he cleared and improved, continuing its cultivation up to the time of his death. He was a man of sterling worth, honorable and upright in all things, was a loyal citizen, a faithful friend and a loving and devoted husband and father. He served as school director of his township, gave his political support to the Democratic party, and was a consistent and earnest member of the Baptist Church. He passed away January 5, 1891, and one more name was added to the list of honored dead, but his memory will be WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 683 kept green in the hearts of his friends for many years. Mrs. Kelley, a most estimable lady, has since conducted the home farm, and displays excellent business ability, while her many womanly graces of character have won her high regard. HENRY SARVIS. The life of this gentleman has been prominently connected with the history of Wood county since early pioneer days, and many interesting incidents can he relate of the time when this region was but sparsely settled, and gave little indication of its present highly cultivated and prosperous condition. He was born in England, and was the fifth in a family of nine children-four sons and five daughters. His father was a man in comfortable circumstances until, through the failure of a bank, he lost much of his property. As his children grew up he would say to them: "All I can do for you now is to give you a good common-school education, and teach you a trade; the rest you must do for yourself. Industry, perseverance, a wise economy, and honorable dealing will bring you success in life. Let your reading be historical and practical, and take the Bible for your guide through life. " A favorite volume of the father's was a history of the United States. When Henry Sarvis was a lad of twelve years he was sent to a boarding school in a farming country, where he first became acquainted with agricultural life, and this and his United States history exerted a great influence on his after career. After leaving school he was engaged in making piano keys in the piano factory, of Broadwood & Co., London, until nineteen years of age, his father holding a responsible position in that establishment. When Henry was nineteen, his brother-in-law had to go to Canada to look after some property, and our subject sailed with him. After a short time spent in Canada, he went to New York, where he accidentally met his brother-in-law, and together they returned to England; but Mr. Sarvis had resolved to save money enough to establish a home in America. He resumed work at his trade, and soon afterward married a farmer's daughter, who proved to him an efficient and capable helpmeet on life's journey. An old-time friend, John Wright, proposed to him that they come to America, and after consulting with his wife, Mr. Sarvis determined to try his fortune in the New World. They were also joined by a boy of fifteen, and the four started for New York in the spring of 1844. On reaching that city Mr. Sarvis and his wife went up the Hudson river, then by canal to Buffalo, and parted with their friend, Mr. Wright, in Cleveland. Leaving their luggage in Detroit, they made their way to the home of Mr. Sarvis' brother-in-law, about ten miles from Chatham, Canada, but he could not secure the land he had hoped to in that locality, and so returned to Chatham. While sitting outside the "Exchange Hotel," thinking what to do next, he became engaged in conversation with a gentleman there who said he lived in Perrysburg, Ohio, and the result was that Mr. Sarvis and his wife accompanied this gentleman to Wood county. They had a letter of introduction to a Mr. Isaac, living on Hull Prairie. Their newly-found friend, Mr. Spafford, told them of the excellent advantages afforded by this country; but the sight which greeted them soon after their arrival seemed anything but hopeful. For two days they remained in the hotel at Perrysburg, and the next morning started for the Prairie, about eight miles distant. Every few rods, so deep was the mud, they had to stop and clear the wheels before they could proceed. It may well be imagined that the progress was slow; and when they reached the Prairie its appearance was much more that of a lake, for it was covered with water, sometimes several feet deep. They found the driving through the water, however, better than driving through the mud, and finally reached a substantial log house, all surrounded by water. On presenting their letter of introduction-for this was the home of Mr. Isaac-they were cordially welcomed in the true spirit of pioneer days. The prospect for comfortable homes in this locality, however, seemed to be very poor, but they were assured by their newly-found friends that the inundation was an unusual one, and that they looked for a bright future. The next morning the host drove Mr. Sarvis to the different farmers on the Prairie, who all seemed hopeful, and believed they would soon have good farms. Mr. Sarvis purchased eighty acres of land at $2.50 per acre, on which stood a log cabin, and forty acres at $1.25 per acre. He also bought two yoke of oxen and two cows, and began breaking the land. He planted a crop, but again all that region was flooded, and in the autumn it was parched by the hot August sun. For several years this was the condition of things, and the families were forced to endure many hardships and trials, such as are entirely unknown to the settlers of to-day. At length a meeting was called, and the settlers on Hull Prairie discussed the advisability of draining the land. Mr. Sarvis was asked for his opinion, and said that he would like two weeks' time in which to study the question. During that time he wrote a letter to the 684 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. editor of the Journal, in connection with Mr. Isaac, and the editor requested that they write a communication of this sort every other week. It was done, and as a result the "ditch law " was passed, the Prairie was drained, and was transformed into a most valuable and productive tract of land, its farms being now unrivaled in excellence and richness. It was also through the instrumentality of the settlers on Hull Prairie that the county fair was first instituted, and the work of progress and improvement has been carried steadily forward by them, until they may well be proud of their improved homes, and what they have accomplished. Mr. Sarvis' first wife died February 25, 1880, and was buried at Perrysburg, Ohio. Mr. Sarvis married Miss Alice Terry, who was born in England in 1858. They have no children. Mrs. Sarvis has two brothers-Thomas, formerly a surgeon in the British army, and now living in England; William, a business man in England. There is also a sister living there-Mrs. Harcourt. court. Mr. and Mrs. Sarvis are members of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics he is a Republican. His well-spent life, and honorable, upright career have gained for him the warm friendship of the neighbors, and the high regard of all with whom he has come in contact. JOHN PERRIN, the earlier part of- whose life was a most checkered one, is now a most extensive land owner in Middleton township, having to-day a valuable farm of 500 acres, highly cultivated and improved with all the accessories and conveniences of a model farm of the Nineteenth century. He belongs to that class of honored men known as "self-made," who, dependent upon their own resources, have worked their way upward from humble surroundings to positions of affluence. Mr. Perrin was born in Nova Scotia, near Pictou, March 19, 1828. His father, James Perrin, was also a native of Nova Scotia, born of French parentage, and followed the occupation of farming in that province. There he married Helen Byers, a native of Scotland, born November 17, 1795, and they became parents of nine children as follows: Jane, wife of James Young; Mary, deceased; John; Josephine, wife of Foster B. Pratt; Catherine, deceased wife of Stephen Langell; William, postmaster at Roachton, Wood county; and three who died in childhood. From his native province the father of this family came to Ohio, afterward removing to Indiana, where he and his wife both died in 1838, the latter on September 27, of that year. As will be seen, our subject was ten years old when death deprived him of both his parents, at which time the children took up their residence in Perrysburg, Wood county, where they remained until the spring of the following. year, the family circle being then broken up, John making his home with William Russell. With him he worked for his living some eighteen months, at the end of which period he went to Seneca county, Ohio, there working for Isaac Ingraham, also eighteen months, but from him he " ran away," returning to Perrysburg. Here for about a year and a half he worked for Charles Shepard, his remuneration being three dollars per month, he part of the time attending school, and then returned to Seneca county, where he was employed on the farm of a Mr. Ingraham, who, later, removed to Henry county, our subject accompanying him, and remaining with him till he was eighteen years old. All. he claims he got from Mr. Ingraham was his board and inferior quality, and a sparse quantity of clothes, his wardrobe at the time of leaving Ingraham's employ consisting of but one suit of clothes. Nothing daunted, young Perrin hired out at $12.00 per month, saved his earnings and in course of time, in 1848, bought 120 acres of wild land in Henry county, near Liberty Center, about the same time taking up the pursuit of fishing, which he followed in connection with farming up to 1853. In that year he set out for the then "New Eldorado "-California-to try his luck in the gold diggings. He set out from St. Louis by boat to Council Bluffs; but, the steamer becoming disabled, he, with some 500 others, had to be landed in the woods where they remained four days suffering greatly from hunger. A steamboat, however, arrived opportunely, and took the temporarily marooned adventurers to Independence, Mo., where Mr. Perrin joined a company of 101 other travelers who formed themselves into an "outfit," the entire company setting out for the gold fields in April. The journey occupied six months, our subject walking most of the way, and doing the hunting for the party, his previous experience in that line, in Ohio, and general knowledge of woodcraft, proving of much value to the party. Arriving at the gold fields, Mr. Perrin immediately commenced mining, which he followed five years, not with much success, he says, after the first year, at the end of that time taking a prospective trip up the Frazer river, in British Columbia, where he mined for gold three years, in this venture meeting with good success, and a proportionate degree of adventure. He there, John Perrin WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 685 however, experienced the greatest hardships. There were some 30,000 people on the Frazer river, no law had been established, and the Indians killed many whites, while the whites killed many Indians in return, so that each man had to protect himself. Mr. Perrin relates many an exciting tale of his experiences, the Frazer river itself, a large stream of water, in the springtime a perfect torrent, being in itself a source of considerable danger, as it had to be navigated with small boats, and many people lost their lives by drowning. Provisions most of the time were scarce, and death from starvation was not infrequent during the winter of 1858-59. Robbers were also a source of great anxiety to the golddiggers, who had to hide their treasure as fast as they found it. In 1861 Mr. Perrin ascended the Frazer, river as far as Cariboo, where a new gold field had been opened out, and he there purchased a rich claim, but in the month of October, that year, the snow was so deep he could not work his claim, and as a consequence had to remain idle there and all alone, monarch of all he surveyed for the time, with nothing to read save the labels on the cans of provisions he had with him; and this highly interesting literature he says he committed to perpetual memory, "canned salmon," pickled beets," etc., being a sort of mental pabulum, the contents of the cans serving for the inner man, Here he remained some six years, made money, and became the owner of many rich claims, paying for some as much as $20,000. From Cariboo Mr. Perrin went to Oregon and Washington Territory, intending to revisit the Frazer river, but while in Portland, Ore., he made up his mind to return to his old Ohio home, which he did, and has remained there ever since. Much has been written about travel and adventure, and did Mr. Perrin's innate modesty permit him to give his personal mining experiences to the world, he could fill a good sized volume with exciting scenes and hair breadth escapes rarely met with in a single lifetime. On his return home in 1868 after an absence of fifteen years, Mr. Perrin found his land in Henry county sold, his relatives, with whom he had never communicated, having given him up for dead. He now, however, purchased 300 acres of land in Middleton township, Wood county, covered with timber and water. Tiling and draining was necessary to make this cultivable, while the trees had to be cleared away ere crops could be planted. Ultimately the boundaries of the farm were extended until it now comprises 500 acres of very valuable land, covered in summer time-with waving fields of grain, and where the surrounding good buildings and modern improvements tell the passer by of the thrift and enterprise of the owner. On December 16, 1891, Mr. Perrin married May Halbert, a most estimable lady. Her father, Henry Halbert, was born in New York, April 6, 1838, and throughout life has followed farming. In 1865 he came to Middleton township, Wood county, and purchased a farm which he yet operates. He was married in New York, to Maria L. Hogan, who was born at Rome, that State, September 15, 1842. They have five children: Harriet, born December 27, 186o, deceased wife of Dr. H. W. Legalley; Henrietta, born June 17, 1863, wife of Oliver Mears; May F., born August 3, 1869, now Mrs. Perrin; Edward, born September 23, 1879; and Miles, born December 5, 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Halbert now reside in Haskins. Mrs. Perrin is a graduate of the Haskins High School, taught school some six years, and is an accomplished lady. To the Republican party Mr. Perrin gives his support. Aside from his farming interests, he is a stockholder in the Bank of Perrysburg, and he is in all respects one of the best known men in the county. His experiences have been varied; but he has steadily worked his way upward, and today ranks among the substantial citizens of the community, owing his success to persistent labor, thorough application and honorable dealing. Pleasant and genial in manner, he is very popular with all classes, and together with his amiable life partner commands the respect of all. JOHN RUDOLPH was born in Germany, September 5, 1848, and is a son of Frederick and Mary (Kroeger) Rudolph, who were natives of the same locality. The father was born January 4, 1815, and the mother on January 18, of the same year. In the fall of 1868 they sailed from Hamburg for New York, but after being on the water for twenty-six days the vessel, having been damaged by storms, was forced to put into port at Halifax, where it remained for repairs five days. After reaching New York, Mr. Rudolph and his family came directly to Cleveland, Ohio, and a year later to Wood county. They located on forty acres of wild land which was unimproved save with a log cabin. There the father still carried on agricultural pursuits; his wife died April 28, 1895. In the family were only two children John and Sophia, the latter now the wife of Joseph Rossow, of Milton township. Our subject attended school between the ages of six and fifteen years, and afterward worked at various employments until twenty-one years of 686 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. age, when he came with his parents to America. As he could not secure work in Cleveland, he went to Iowa, where he secured employment as a farm hand at $14 per month, and board. After some time he returned to the Buckeye State, and has since been a resident of Wood county. He aided in clearing his father's farm, selling the timber to the railroad company. Mr. Rudolph was married in Custar, May 14, 1879, to Miss Christina Wismer, who was born in Prussia, Germany, August 25, 1855, and is a daughter of John and Caroline (Henning) Wismer. They now have six children: Frank, a freight agent in Toledo, Ohio; and Fred, Daniel, Mary, Annie and George, all at home. Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph began their domestic life on a forty-acre farm which our subject purchased of his father. He has made excellent improvements upon this place, and his commodious and pleasant residence is one of the best in the township. He has served on the school board for a number of years, and is deeply interested in all that pertains to the welfare of the community. His political support is given the Republican party. He is a prominent member of the Lutheran Church, and is serving as trustee and Sunday-school teacher. A. GEORGE GALLIER. The splendid farm owned by this gentleman, in Center township, is a standing monument to his industry, preseverance and good management. He comes under the category of self-made men, having been thrown upon his own resources early in life, and has succeeded only by the exercise of his steady, earnest application to his duties. Just at this time he is one of the prominent representatives of the agricultural interests of Wood county. Mr. Gallier was born in Herefordshire, England, February 24, 1848, and is a son of Samuel and Annie (Amond) Gallier, who were the parents of the following children: Millie F., wife of John Jinkson, of Salt Lake City; Jane, widow of John Dryer; William, a landscape gardener, of Toledo, Ohio; Annie, wife of Robert Barnes, of Wood county; Mary, who makes her home in Salt Lake City, Utah; A. George, of this sketch; Esther, still a resident of England; and two who died in infancy. The father followed the occupation of a common laborer, and died in his native land in 1866, but the mother still makes her home in that country. Our subject received a very limited education in the schools of Herefordshire, and when a small boy entered a store where he was employed for three years, receiving one pound for the first year and two for the second, together with his board. He then obtained a position as page in the home of a wealthy gentleman, where he remained for five years, receiving only his board and clothing and five pounds per year. On the expiration of that time he became a hotel clerk, being thus employed until reaching the age of twenty-one, when he started in business for himself on a small scale. After a year, however, at the solicitation of a brother who had previously located here, he resolved to come to America. He landed on the shores of the New World in 1871, and in Toledo, Ohio, found employment as a gardener, which occupation he followed there for nine years, when he came to Wood county, locating in Center township on forty acres of unimproved land, which he had purchased. This wild tract he cleared, ditched and tiled, erecting thereon a good house, barns and other outbuildings, besides planting an orchard. To this later he added another tract of forty acres, and now has eighty-two acres of arable, to the development of which he gives his entire attention. Before leaving his native land Mr. Gallier was married in Herefordshire, July 1, 1869, to Sarah Jones, and they have become the parents of the following children: William, born July 8, 1872; H. A., September 11, 1874; John, June 28, 1876; Monroe, January 27, 1878; James, January 2, 1880; George, November 5, 1883; Millie, April 27, 1886; Walter, October 9, 1888; Mabel, September 22, 1891; and Myrtle, May 9, 1894. Mr. Gallier is quite prominent in local affairs, and politically is a stanch Republican. For several years he has served as school director and president of the board of education, and is at present supervisor of his township, which' position his son William filled last year, having run on the ticket with his father, and receiving more votes than he. Our subject is a genial, pleasant gentleman, widely and favorably known, and he and his family attend the United Brethren Church. JOHN R. MARWICK, a retired farmer, living at Bowling Green, was born in Cambridgeshire, England, August 13, 1835. His parents were William and Ann (Amos) Marwick, the former of whom, born in England in 1796, died there in November, 1859. The mother was born in 1792, and died in 1853. Religiously she was a Baptist, and her husband was an Episcopalian. They had twelve children, of whom four grew to maturiy: Mary Ann married James Earl, and is living in Australia; she came from England to Wood county, and then removed to her present WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 687 home. Sarah is the wife of William Walker, who lives in England. William went to Australia in 1853, and is in the gold fields there. John R.. is our subject. Mr. Marwick grew up in England, coming to America in 1855. His means were limited, and he walked from Toledo, Ohio, to Bowling Green, and went to work by the month on a farm in the vicinity. He had been reared as a drover in Merrie England," and found life here in the wilderness hard and uncongenial. In 1856 he was married to Miss Susanna Wakefield, who was born in Cambridgeshire, England, July 28, 1832. She is the daughter of John and Mary (Barley) Wakefield, who came to America in 1851, and located at Monroeville, Huron Co., Ohio, moving from therein 1857 to Wood county, where they lived in Plain township. Mr. Wakefield built a house in Bowling Green, where he spent the latter part of his life. He was born in 1795 and died in 1869; his wife was born in 1798 and departed this life in 1885. Six of their children grew to maturity, namely: John, who died in Plain township; Mary, who died soon after her marriage; Sarah, married to John Wills, and now residing in Chillicothe, Mo.; Susanna. wife of our subject; William, living in Bowling Green; and Lizzie Jane, wife of James Wright, living in Weston, Ohio. Mr. and Mr. Marwick first settled in Erie county, Ohio, then coming to Bowling Green located in Plain township, and finally in Washington township, where they now own eighty acres of land. They have one child, William R., born May 29, 1857, who married Miss Ella -Crum and resides in Bureau, Ohio; they have four children-Earnest, Nellie May, Arthur and Marie. Mr. Marwick is a Republican, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Church. He also belongs to the I. O. O. F., and his wife is a member of the Daughters of Rebekah. They are model citizens of Bowling Green, where they are well-known for their hospitality and philanthropic works. JACOB SOMMERS. Among the worthy citizens who claim Ohio as the State of their nativity, none are more deserving of a conspicuous place in the history of Wood county than this gentleman, whose honorable and well-spent life has gained him the high regard of all with whom he has been brought in contact. He was born in Medina county, Ohio, June 2, 1858, and is a son of Frederick and Rosana (Groah) Sommers, who came with their family to Wood county in 186o. Our subject attended the district school at Flint Hill, in Portage township, and also the common schools of Liberty township. His vacation periods were spent at work upon the home farm, and at the age of eighteen he began running an engine in a sawmill, where he was employed for two seasons. He afterward worked as a farm hand in Seneca county for one year, but, returning to Wood county, secured a situation as a farm hand with John Metzger, of Liberty township. Later he operated the old homestead. On March 8, 1885, in Portage township, Mr. Sommers married Ellen Knight, who was born in Ottawa county, Ohio, December 27, 1864, and is a daughter of Thomas W. and Elizabeth ( Warren) Knight. The young couple began their domestic life on the Bradshaw farm in Liberty township, which Mr. Sommers rented for a year, and then returned to the old family homestead, where he resided until removing to his present place in November, 1893. In connection with his brother Fred, he purchased 120 acres of land. His home is a comfortable dwelling, and he has made many excellent improvements upon the farm. To Mr. and Mrs. Sommers have been born a daughter, Mabel Matilda, born December 4, 1885. The parents are active and leading members in the Disciples Church, and Mr. Sommers belongs to the Odd Fellows Society of Portage. He has served as school director for some time, and gives a hearty and willing support to all measures- calculated to advance the general welfare, educational or otherwise. JACOB BALEY. There is probably no man in Bloom township wider or more favorably known than this gentleman, who came to that section of the county in the pioneer days, and is recognized as one of the important factors in its progress and development. He is a native of Ohio, born in Canfield township, Mahoning county, April 19, 1820. His father was a Pennsylvanian by birth, and married Miss Catherine Sanon, by whom he had nine children, namely: Lavina, Elizabeth, Jacob, Eliza, Catherine, Peter, Jeremiah, Amanda and John. The parents departed this life in Canfield township, Mahoning county. Until reaching the age of seventeen or eighteen years, Jacob Baley assisted in the work on the home farm, and at intervals attended the schools of his day. He was then bound out to William Lyman to remain until twenty-one years old, but left him and for three months worked for William Giger; then he worked for Christian Dustman for seven months, receiving ten dollars per month for his services, and during that time 688 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. only two days. The following winter he teed with Jacob Hammon, and went to school, helping with the work and doing chores. The next spring he worked several months for Mr. Hammon, and at odd times or on wet days young Baley worked in the blacksmith shop for a Mr. Wonsetler, and later on he arranged with him to learn the trade, and remained with him one and a half years, then worked for him on the shares for about a year. Later he went to Poland, Ohio, and worked in the same manner for Jacob Lee. In this way he earned money enough to buy a partial outfit for himself (making the rest), and began business at the four corners of the roads leading to Youngstown, Boardman, Canfield and Austintown, Ohio. On November 10, 1840, our subject was married, in Mahoning county, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Abraham and Catharine (Crous) Simon, born May 6, 1822, in Mahoning county, Ohio. In the spring of 1847, Mr. Baley sold out and with a small one-horse wagon brought his wife and three children to Bloom township, locating in Section 21, where he had bought land the year previous. On his eighty-acre farm he built a log shop, and his father-in-law brought his tools here sometime later. He had only received $14 from his father's estate, and by his trade earned the money with which he paid for his land. The settlers in this section were widely scattered, so that at first work at his trade was not rushing, even though his patrons' came for miles around, and much of his blacksmithing was paid for by his customers in clearing his land for him. For six weeks the family lived at Bloom Center, while a log house, 16 x 20 feet, was made ready for occupancy. He continued to work at his trade, in addition to his agricultural pursuits, and as his income increased secured more land until he was the owner of 260 acres, but has now given 16o acres to his sons, still retaining the remainder. For over fifty-five years, Mr. and Mrs. Baley have now traveled life's journey together, sharing with each other its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity, and they have reared a family of which they may justly be proud. They are as follows: Delilah, born November 23, 1841, is the wife of W. S. Richard, of Bloomdale, Ohio; Harriet, born May 6, 1844, is now Mrs. Alfred Simon; Mary, born September 13, 1846, is the wife of Thomas Loman, a grain merchant of Newmarket, Iowa; John is a prominent resident of Wood county; Martha A., born August 28, 1851, is the widow of Alfred Stephens, of Knobnoster, Mo.; Amanda, born November 5, 1853, is the wife of Byron Frederick, of Bloom township; Simon C. is a leading citizen of Wood county; Lucy A., born June 11, 1858, married D. L. Kunkler, and died October 26, 1894 (the first death in the family); and Olive E., born August 1, 1860, is now Mrs. Morrison Brunstetter, of Butler, Indiana. Mr. Baley is a fine specimen of physical manhood, being six feet and one inch in height, and weighing 185 pounds, and though he is still quite active, in his younger days he was very strong, being able to perform a big day's work very easily. He still engages in blacksmithing to a limited extent. He has always voted the Democratic ticket, and has been called upon to serve as school director of District No. 5, supervisor and treasurer for three years. He is truly a self made man, and there are no more highly respected citizens in Wood county than Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Baley. W. T. THOMAS, M. D. This prominent physycian and surgeon, who, at this writing (1896), is filling the responsible office of mayor of North Baltimore, is one of the best-known citizens of Wood county, where for many years he has taken an active part in political matters. A politician, like a poet, seems to be "born, not made," and the peculiar qualifications which fit a man to fill the many arduous and trying positions belonging to an active public life must be inherent in his nature to make him successful in such a career. Dr. Thomas was born in Wayne county, Ohio, November 28, 1851. His father, Levi Thomas, was a native of the North of Ireland, and was obliged to leave his native land on account of his religious faith, being a Roman Catholic. He came to America in 1846, finally settling in Ohio. He married Susan Lawrence, who, was born at Lancaster, Penn., and, in 1853, the family came to Wood county, where they located in Henry township. The father died December 21, 185o, the mother in 1895. The paternal grandmother of our subject is still living near Wauseon, Ohio, at the remarkable age of 105 years. Our subject did not learn to speak the English language, until he was ten years old. He then entered a select school at Weston, also attending one at South Toledo, and learned so, rapidly that when seventeen years old he began teaching. This occupation he followed some eleven years, in the meantime studying medicine. He was graduated from Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio, in May, 1881, after a three years' course, and soon after located in North Baltimore, where he built up a successful prac- W. T. Thomas WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 689 tice. Under the term of President Harrison, Dr. Thomas was appointed postmaster of the city, serving as such four years, until the opposing political party came into power. Dr. Thomas has always had a penchant for politics, and is by nature intended for a leader among men. He served as clerk of Henry township for eight years, 'and resigned the office of mayor to accept the Federal appointment as postmaster. He had been chairman of the Republican Executive Committee of Wood county for three terms, and a member of the County Central Committee a number of times. He has repeatedly been a delegate to Congressional and Gubernatorial Conventions, and in other ways has for years been prominently identified with the politics of the city, county and State. He is a man of ability, keen foresight and shrewd judgment, and has the confidence of the people to a large degree. After resigning his position as postmaster, in 1893, he attended the Chicago Polyclinic, in which he took a post-graduate course. He is very popular in the community, and has an extensive practice. The Doctor is a contributor to the St. Louis Medical Brief. By his first marriage, to Miss Nancy De Rode, Dr. Thomas had two children: Jessie and Susan. His present wife, to whom he was married July 2, 1888, was Miss Flora Clough, who was born in Perrysburg, Ohio, March 12, 1859. They have one child, Bertha, born July 29, 1891. Dr. Thomas is an active member of the I. O. F., the K. of P. and the Woodmen of the World. JAMES JOHNSTON is one of the honored pioneers of Portage township who, by developing a good farm from the forest, has materially aided in its growth. He has met with a well-deserved success in his calling, and his fine, well-ordered farm (pleasantly situated in Section 9), with its carefully cultured fields, its neat buildings, and all their surroundings, denote the skillful management, industry and well-directed labors of the owner. The birth of Mr. Johnston, our subject, occurred Richland county, Ohio, March 1, 1819, and he is a son of John and Elizabeth (Humphrey) Johnston, the former a native of the North of Ireland, and the latter of Irish descent, but born in Pennsylvania three weeks after the landing of her parents in this country. When a young man the father came to the United States and was married in Pennsylvania. Before the war of 1812 he came to Ohio, and participated in that struggle under Gen. Harrison. By occupation he was a farmer, and about 1816 removed to Richland county, becoming one of its earliest settlers. His family consisted of the following children: Thomas died in Fostoria, Ohio; Jennie, who was never married, died at the age of sixty years; Fannie married William Underwood, and died in Portage township; Cynthia first wedded James Scott, and later married Edward Coyne, who died in Libby prison; James comes next; William died in Portage township, in September, 1895; John lives in Toledo, Ohio; Robert died in Portage township; and Cyrus resides in Illinois. In the district schools of his native county James Johnston began his education, and in April, 1837, came with his parents to Wood county, locating in Section 1o, Portage township, where his father had entered 480 acres of land some years before. They made the trip by wagon, driving the stock, and their first home here was made of round logs. Here the father died at the age of sixty-six, and the mother at the age of sixty-seven years. Their remains were interred in Sargent cemetery. In politics he was a Whig, and always attended religious services, his sympathies being with the Presbyterian Church, where he was baptized when a child, though he never joined any denomination. James continued his studies in the village of Portage after coming to this county, and at the age of twenty years left home, beginning work as a farm hand. He also drove stock east of the mountains in Pennsylvania. On March 16, 1843, in Portage township, he was united in marriage with Miss Susanna Durler, who was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, April 29, 1824, and when five years old was brought to America by her parents, John and Mary (Unkey) Durler. They embarked on a sailing vessel at Havre, France, which, after a voyage of seventy-five days, dropped anchor in the harbor of New York. Their first location was in Starke county, Ohio; later they removed to Tuscarawas county, and in 1837 settled in Portage township, Wood county, in Section 2. The parents both died in Fulton county, Ohio. Mrs. Johnston was one of their family of six children, two sons and four daughters, and is entirely self-educated, having never attended a school a day, but taught herself to read. On the farm which his father had entered in Section 9, Portage township, Mr. Johnston began his domestic life, and there has continuously resided, with the exception of two years spent in the village of Portage. The home was brightened by the presence of seven children: John, born January 12, 1844, is a farmer of Portage town- 690 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. ship; James, born June 1, 1846, was killed by a falling tree in June, 1867, in a storm, while on his way home from Indiana; Lewis, born December 11, 1849, died at the age of five years; Cyrus, born July 28, 1853, is an agriculturist of Portage township; Parsida, born March 4, 1856, is now Mrs. Aaron Crom, of Portage township; William, born November 16, 1858, carries on farming in Center township, Wood county; and Mary E., born September 29, 1862, is the wife of George Sterling, of Henry township, this county. The parents are faithful members of the United Brethren Church, in which he has served for over forty years as steward. They have traveled life's journey together for more than half a century, sharing its joys and sorrows, successes and reverses, and throughout the county they are widely known and highly respected. As a representative man of the community, and an old pioneer, Mr. Johnston stands pre-eminent, and his public-spiritedness and charity are proverbial. His first Presidential vote was cast for William Henry Harrison, the Whig candidate, and on the formation of the Republican party he joined its ranks. He has served as supervisor and school director in District No. 2. CHARLES BATEMAN SAXBY, editor of the Wood County Herald, of Weston, is conducting the paper with signal ability and success, and holds a prominent position among the young journalists of Ohio, none of whom have better prospects for a brilliant future in their chosen career. He is a native of Wood county, born at West Millgrove February 8, 1865, the fourth in the family of five children born to Bateman H. and Martha H. ( Musser) Saxby. His father was born at Normanton, on the river Trent, England, Thursday, July 6, 1826. He left his native place on Sunday, May 13, 1855, at 10 A. M., and on the 22nd of the same month boarded the sailing vessel "Calhoun," bound for America. He arrived at Austinburg, Ohio, Wednesday, July 18, and the following fall removed to Fostoria, where he worked at the tailor's trade until October, 1864, at which time he went to West Millgrove. While living in Fostoria he was made a Mason, becoming a charter member of Fostoria Lodge. In 1857 he started on a tour through the Western States, and after his return he was united in marriage, on Wednesday, October 13, 1858, with Miss Martha Henrietta Musser. He conducted a tailor shop and grocery at West Millgrove, but in 1885 gave up the former. During the Civil war he enlisted in the Union army, but was not permitted to serve on account of disability, though he drilled with the home guards. He made the old` silk battle flag of the noted 49th Regiment. His death occurred at West Millgrove, Monday, September 12, 1892. His wife, who was born at Deerfield, Portage Co., Ohio, Sunday, December 16, 1838, removed with her parents to West Millgrove in 1853, and still makes her home there. Before her marriage she taught school in this county. She became the mother of five children, three sons and two daughters, but only two survive: Charles B., the subject proper of this review, and Edgar Allen Saxby, a druggist of Pemberville, Ohio, who was born at Fostoria Wednesday, July 8, 1863, and is a registered pharmacist; he is now serving his second term as grand trustee of the Grand Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Ohio. Jacob Musser, the maternal grandfather of our subject, was born at Petersburg, Ohio, in 1803, and in 1824 was married to Miss Syndonia Garrison, whose birth occurred in Pennsylvania in 18o8. They became the parents of eight children, of whom Mrs. Saxby is the fifth in order of birth. Mr. Musser located in the wilderness of Portage county, Ohio, at Deerfield, when the wolves were so numerous that they would howl about the cabin, and even look in at the windows. In 1845 he removed to Ravenna, Ohio, and eight years later became a resident of West Millgrove, this county. By trade he was a blacksmith, and he followed that occupation all through life. In 1827 he was elected first lieutenant of the Second Rifle Company of the First Regiment, Second Brigade, Fourth Division in the Ohio Militia, and was afterward made captain, being sworn into service Monday, August 30, 1830, by Samuel D. Harris, brigadier-general of that brigade. All his old military papers are now in the possession of the brother of our subject. He died at West Millgrove, Friday, February 11, 1870, and his wife departed this life Thursday, March 10, 1884, at the age of seventy-six years. The early life of Charles B. Saxby was spent at West Millgrove, where he attended the public schools, and during vacations worked in his father's store or upon farms, very seldom being found out of employment. During the summer months of 1882 and 1883 he served an apprenticeship with a house painter. On Tuesday, September 30, 1884, he went to Weston, where he secured a position on the paper which he now edits, and commenced to learn the printer's trade, working four months for nothing, and paying his own personal expenses with the exception of his board. S. E. Burson was at that time proprietor of the WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 691 paper. When Mr. Saxby arrived in Weston he was possessed of $1.05, having refused to accept financial assistance from his father, as he desired to make his own way in the world as his father had done before him. After serving four months he received a salary of $3 per week for two years, and industriously stuck to his position until his apprenticeship expired. On Saturday, January 1, 1887, Mr. Saxby, through the assistance of Judge Frank M. Young, secured a position on the Wood County Gazette, published then at Bowling Green, Ohio, and on that paper remained until Saturday, March 2, 1889, working for A. W. Rudulph, its able editor and manager. He held every position from " cub," to solicitor, reporter and collector. On Wednesday, March 6, 1889, Mr. Saxby was united in marriage with Miss Nettie L. Dull, only daughter of John L. Dull, then a prominent dry-goods merchant of Weston, who is now engaged in selling agricultural implements. Our subject secured a position in his father-inlaw's store, and there remained until Wednesday, May 1, 1889, when he again resumed newspaper work as collector and solicitor on the Sentinel, which had just been consolidated with the Gazette. He remained five months, settling up the large subscription accounts of both papers, and after its completion collected delinquent tax in Perry, Montgomery and Bloom townships, for the county treasurer, which was a very responsible position for a young man to hold. He commenced work in his father-in-law's store again on Monday, December 2, 1889, and remained in his employ until the twenty-sixth anniversary of his birth, February 8, 1891, but during the previous summer he had driven a huckster wagon " for his health " as well as for the revenue connected with it. However, the newspaper desire could not be overcome, and he returned to Bowling Green, where he took his old position on the Sentinel-Gazette, as reporter and general utility man. On Friday, July 31, 1891, in connection with J. D. Conklin, then postmaster of Weston, he purchased the Wood County Herald, the paper on which he had set his first type, and has held the position of editor and manager up to the present time. On December 4, 1891, Mr. Conklin sold his interest to A. S. Coward, and the firm is now Saxby & Coward. It is a bright spicy paper, and, the editor being a versatile writer, it is eagerly sought by the intelligent reading public. Politically, Mr. Saxby is a Republican, having, cast his first Presidential vote at Bowling Green, for Harrison and Morton. He was elected clerk of Weston township, Monday, April 7, 1890, was re-elected Monday, April 4, 1892, serving two full terms, and was nominated for the office of mayor of Weston at the spring caucus of 1895 but failed of election by a small vote. On Monday, April 6, 1896, he was elected cemetery trustee for a term of two years. He was elected a member of the central committee in 1891 and '96, and a member of the county executive committee in 1895. During the year 1892 he was Wood county's representative of the Ohio Republican League on the executive committee, and at the State Convention held at Columbus, in 1893, he was chairman of the Wood county delegation. He was a delegate to the State Republican Conventions in 1892-3-4-6. Mr. Saxby has been a member of the township election board, either as clerk or presiding judge of every election held since the fall of 1891, and has received the appointment as presiding judge for the spring of 1897. Mr. Saxby takes considerable interest in civic societies. On Tuesday, January 31, 1893, he joined Anthony Wayne Tent No. 140, K. O. T. M., as a charter member, and was elected past commander. He was also elected a representative to the Great Camp, and during its session at Piqua, Ohio, August 15 and 16, 1893, was elected great sentinel of that body, and re-elected at Toledo, Wednesday, August 15, 1894, At Cleveland, Ohio, Wednesday, August 14, 1895, he was elected great second master of the guard for a term of two years, and is now serving as record-keeper of the lodge at Weston. He joined Weston Lodge No. 681, I. O. O. F., Friday, February 2, 1894, and in July was appointed warden, installed vicegrand in January, 1895, and noble grand, Friday, July 19, 1895. On Tuesday, May 19, 1896, he took the Grand Lodge degree at Lima, Ohio. On Friday, May 29, 1896, he was elected recording secretary. In the month of September, 1894, both he and his wife joined Choking Lodge No. 303, D. of R., and on Wednesday, May 6, 1896, he joined Kenilworth Lodge No. 340, K. of P., and was elected K. of R. & S., August 26, 1896. Mr. Saxby holds membership with the Buckeye Press Association, and is a member of its executive committee, and also belongs to the Wood County Country Press Association, in which he is serving as treasurer. He is a popular and influential man, possessing an energetic spirit, good executive ability and an excellent judgment, which will not fail to bring him success. Mrs. Saxby was born in Weston township, 692 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. Wood county, Tuesday, January 12, 1869, and is the daughter of John Lewis Dull, who served in the Union army during the Civil war as a member of Company I, 144th O. V. I. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church, Neibling Woman's Relief Corps, Emerald Hive No. 42, L. O. T. M., and Kokosing Lodge No. 303, D. of R. She takes a very active part in all Church work, and is a most estimable lady. At the marriage of our subject and his wife, Rev. James Long, her grandfather, officiated. They have three children-Helen Kathryn, born Monday, November 17, 1890; John Bateman, born Friday, January 26, 1894, who died Sunday, May 27, following, and Mildred Nettie, born Sunday, July 5, 1896. They have a very pleasant home of their own at the corner of Locust and Clark streets, where their many friends always find a hearty welcome.-[October 20, 1896.] JOHN SATTLER, a prominent agriculturist of Perrysburg township, and one of the oldest residents of that locality, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, in 1830. His parents, Philip and Christina (Rau) Sattler, were natives of the same province, and came to America in 1851, passing thirty-one days on the voyage between London and New York. After their arrival they spent three months in New York City, and then went to Hamburg, N. Y., a year later coming to Ohio, and locating first in Cuyahoga county, and then in Mercer county, where they'- remained three years. In 1863 they came to Wood county, and bought 10o acres of land, still in its primitive condition, near Stony Ridge. Here the father died in 1875 at the age of seventy, his wife surviving him until 1894, when she departed this life, aged ninety-one years. They had four children, of whom our subject was the eldest; Philip died in Perrysburg township in 1879; Joseph resides in the same township; Catherine married Joseph Armbruster, and died in 1876. Mr. Sattler received a good education in the schools of the Fatherland, but he learned to read and write the English language by private study, after he came to this country. He was married, in 1857, in Rockport township, Cuyahoga county, to Miss Magdalena. Haller, a native of Baden, Germany, and of this union seven children were born: Catherine married Paul Greulick, of Troy township; George died February 20, 1879; Helen married Barny Grabenstetter, and died March 4, 1888, leaving two children, Matilda and Marie; John B. married Louisa Beaurigard, and resides in Virginia; Joseph A. also lives in Virginia, and Philip and Josephine are at home, In politics, Mr. Sattler is a Democrat, and he takes an influential part in local affairs, having -been township supervisor for two years, and a member of the board of education of his township for sixteen years. Since 1882 he has been a director and agent of the Lime City Farmers Mutual Fire Association. FRANK ROGERS, a highly-esteemed citizen of Middleton township, is a native of Ohio, having been born in Seneca county, February 8, 1845. Amos Rogers, his father, was a native of New York, and by occupation a cooper and farmer. From the Empire State he removed to Fulton county, Ohio, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until 1851, when he came to Freedom township, Wood county, and there operated a farm for a time. Subsequently he engaged in the hotel business in Genoa, Ottawa county, where his remaining days were passed. In Seneca county he was married to Effie Booram, a native of New York, and they became the parents of nine children: Amanda, wife of John Russell, of Bowling Green; Harriet, wife of Joseph Long, of Genoa, Ohio; Frank; Alanson, of Center township; Edward, a cooper of Findlay, Ohio; Martha, wife of Thomas Waugh; Emery, an operator at Toledo; Francis, deceased; and James, who is justice of the peace at Scotch Ridge. The father is deceased; the mother is now living at Scotch Ridge. The subject of this review acquired his education in the public schools of Wood county, and gave his father the benefit of his services until after the breaking out of the Civil war. Prompted by a spirit of patriotism, he enlisted, January 1, 1864, in Company K, 21st O. V. I., under Capt. Canfield and Col. Neibling. He participated in the battle of Buzzard's Roost and in the Atlanta campaign. After the fall of that city he was on detached duty during winter, participating in the battle of Nashville. Rejoining his regiment at Goldsboro, N. C., he was in the battle of Jonesboro, with Sherman in his march to the sea, and was in the grand review at Washington, in 1865. On July 11, 1865, he was discharged, having made for himself an honorable war record. He was with his regiment all the time, attached to the 14th Army Corps, 1st Division, 3rd Brigade. Returning to his home in Freedom township, he there attended school for six terms, afterward removing with his father to Genoa. He then located in Clay township, where he purchased forty acres of land that he operated and improved, in connection with work at the cooper's trade, which he followed some six Frank Rogers WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 693 years. He then purchased a bowl factory, carried the same on for a year, and in 1882 he removed to Dunbridge, where for four years he was engaged in the manufacture of bowls, also of hoops and lumber. He then purchased eighty acres of land in Middleton township, upon which he erected a residence at a cost of $3,000; also built a substantial barn and added other improvements, thereby making his farm one of the best in the county. In connection with agricultural pursuits he is secretary of the Dunbridge Oil Company, and a stockholder in the Elevator Company. On February 24, 1870, Mr. Rogers married Melvina Wentworth, daughter of James Wentworth, of Erie county, Ohio, and they have one child, Nettie, born in 1872, now the wife of Dr. J. Pope, of Dunbridge. The family are identified with the Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Rogers is an elder. In politics he is a Republican, and has served 'as justice of the peace and notary public of Wood county. Socially he is a member of Wood County Lodge, F. & A. M., and of Crystal Chapter, Bowling Green, Ohio; also a member of Robert Stewart Post No. 690, G. A. R., of Dunbridge. His integrity is above question, his life has been an honorable and upright one, and he has the confidence and good will of all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact. GEORGE W. URIE, who has spent his entire life in Wood county, was born in Bloom township, October 4, 1847. The paternal-grandfather, Solomon Urie, was a native of Pennsylvania, whence he came to Ohio at an early day, .first locating in Richland county, and later be= came one of the pioneers of Ashland county. His next removal made him a resident of Cass township, Hancock county, but his last days were spent in Eaton county, Mich. When he came to Ohio there were few settlements in the western part of the State, and in his efforts to secure a home for his family, he endured all the hardships of a true pioneer. Joseph Urie, the father of our subject, was born in Richland county, Ohio, June 5, 1825, and was reared on the frontier, his education being such as the district schools of those early days afforded. He removed to Hancock county when that portion of the State was almost entirely in its primitive condition. On November 19, 1846, he was married to Miss Elinda Robbins, who was born in Columbia county, Penn., July 9, 1824, and was a daughter of Daniel and Rhoda (McCarty) Robbins, early settlers of Bloom township. The wedding ceremony was performed by Squire Chilcote, of Perry township, Wood county. They located upon a farm in Bloom township, and, as Mr. Urie was in limited circumstances, his start in life was slow. For a time he followed threshing, working for Ora Baird, and later removed to Ashland county, where the only brother of our subject, Milton T., was born February 17, 185o. While there the family resided upon the land which now comprises the County Poor Farm of Ashland county. From there the father removed to Eaton county, Mich., renting a farm of John McConnell, a great hunter, though he owned at that time land in Montcalm county, Mich., and, after a residence in Eaton county, he returned to Bloom township, Wood county, buying a farm in Section 35. At West Millgrove, Joseph Urie enlisted in the Union army August 6, 1862, becoming a member of Company B, 111th O. V. I., which was later made a part of the Second Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps. At the battle of Lenoir Station, Tenn., he was taken prisoner, and was confined in Libby prison and at Andersonville, Ga., where, after nine months he starved to death, dying August 10, 1864. His sufferings were terrible, and his body was never recovered by his family. Like so many brave and loyal men during that struggle he laid down his life for his country. Urie Post, G. A. R., of Bloomdale, is named in his honor. This left the widow with her two sons, who carried on the farm, where she lived for many years. She died at the home of our subject in Bloomdale, July 9, 1891, a most highly respected lady, and an earnest and devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The primary education of George W. Urie was obtained in the district schools, and he completed his studies by one term's attendance at the schools of Findlay, Ohio. In 1871 he was united in marriage with Mrs. Sarah Rosendale, nee Noecker, widow of Thomas Rosendale, Sr., and to them was born a daughter, Lorena, who died in infancy. The wife died in 1874, and was interred in Shenandoah, Richland county. Up to the spring of 1872 farming had been the chief occupation of our subject, but at that time he joined the surveying party, then locating the B. & O. railroad through Bloomdale, being thus employed for about two years. After the death of his first wife he began the erection of a house for the accommodation of travelers in Bloomdale, which he conducted for some time in connection with the operation of his farm near that place. This property he later sold, and devoted his entire 694 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. time to agricultural pursuits, but now makes his home in Bloomdale, where he has a pleasant and commodious residence. In Cass township, Hancock county, in September, 1893, Mr. Urie was again married, his second union being with Miss Lizzie Overholt, a native of that township, and a daughter of Christian Overholt, one of its representative farmers and citizens. This worthy couple hold membership with the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which they contribute liberally, and he has served as steward and secretary of the board of trustees. Politically he is a stalwart Republican, and is at present serving as constable of the township. Though a quiet, unassuming man, he wins many friends, and his integrity, manliness and true Christian character have won the respect of the entire community. CLARENCE W. THOMAS, who carries on agricultural pursuits in Plain township, is a native of the same, having first seen the light in that township, June 26, 1859, and is a worthy representative of a pioneer family of Wood county. He is a son of Silas and Eliza (Beach) Thomas, and a brother of L. P. Thomas, of Middleton township. In Plain township he attended school, and from an early age has been familiar with farm work in its various departments, for as soon as old enough to handle a plow, he began work in the fields on the old homestead. To his father he gave the benefit of his services until 1879, when he started out in life for himself, and in partnership with his brother, J. G. Thomas, purchased thirty acres of land which they cleared and improved. As success attended their efforts, they added to this property until they had more than one hundred acres at the time our subject sold out. The latter then purchased the old homestead of one hundred acres which he now operates, being successfully engaged in general farming and stock raising. He has made excellent improvements on his land, and is a progressive, energetic and capable farmer. On February 1, 1880, Clarence W. Thomas was united in marriage with Miss Maggie A. Jewell, daughter of Aaron Jewell, and their union has been blessed with two sons and one daughter -Albert, Orin and Mabel, all of whom are now attending school. Mr. Thomas is a warm friend of the cause of education, believing it to be the best preparation for life work, and for three years he served as school director, In religious faith he belongs to the United Brethren Church, holding membership with the Union Hill Church, of which he is trustee and assistant class-leader, also superintendent of the Sunday-school. He does all in his power to promote the cause of religion, and has been an important factor in educational and social interests. MANDEVILLE MILBOURN, a leading agricultureist of Bloom township, is a member of one of the most prominent pioneer families of that locality, and has himself passed through experiences, the like of which can never occur again in this now, civilized region. The Milbourn family is of old Virginia stock, their home being in Campbell county. His grandfather, Andrew Milbourn, reared a family of six children, among whom was Lot T., our subject's father, who came to Ohio when a young man and located for a time in Columbiana county. Here he met and married his first wife, Miss Abigail Reed, and in the summer of 1835 came to Bloom township and bought a tract of 16o acres of timber land, upon which he built a small log house for his family, who joined him in the fall. At that time there were no roads there except the irregular wagon track cut by the settlers from one house to another, and our pioneers were obliged to clear their way from Eagleville to their new home, following what is known as Bull creek most of the distance. Lot T. Milbourn was a leader in the community, active in politics, in early days as a Whig and later as a Republican, and e was for years a justice of the peace, and the clerk and a trustee of Bloom township. He was a great hunter, and the woods afforded him every chance to gratify his taste. In addition to farming he carried on the blacksmith trade, and made hoes and other implements of unusual strength for the rough work of that day. Not withstanding his early disadvantages, he acquired a fair competence, and his later years were spent in quiet comfort. Our subject, who was born December 18, 1841, was the youngest of eight children: Harvey, now a farmer of Bloom township; Julia A., Josiah, and Lycurgus, all three of whom have passed away; Leander, now a resident of Kansas; Lot R., who lives in Columbiana county; Thomas E., a resident of Iowa, and Mandeville. The mother of our subject died in 1848, and the father subsequently married Mrs. Hannah McNeely Whitacre. Mandeville Milbourn attended the schools of District No. 3, his first teacher being Richard Martin. He assisted on the farm until the death of his father, which occurred in 1874, relieving him of care in his old age. He shared his father's love of hunting, and his single-barrel rifle, WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 695 which weighs twelve pounds and carries a ball that weighs forty-five to the pound, has brought down all sorts of game excepting bear. On one occasion he went out to hunt rabbits with his dogs, and startled a wild cat, which took refuge on the roof of the old log barn, where he crouched pending a renewal of hostilities. Fortunately the father returned from a hunting trip just then, and shot at the wildcat, wounding him so that he jumped down and was killed by the three dogs after a desperate fight, our subject carrying the carcass home with much pride. At another time he and his brother Lycurgus were hunting deer in Henry township, and, seeing a drove of six or more, they shot a large buck, who left the main herd and was pursued by the boys. Another shot rendered him desperate, and when the boys neared him he charged at Lycurgus, who bravely stood his ground, and by a well-directed blow with a hatchet laid the monarch of the woods low. On January 1, 1864, Mr. Milbourn married Miss Rebecca Whitacre, daughter of Reason Whitacre, a well-known pioneer of Bloom township. They began housekeeping on a part of the old homestead, which he inherited from his father. Here he has made many improvements, including a handsome residence built in 1889. Five children were born of this union: Reason E., a dentist of North Baltimore; Lydia C., who married George Zody, of Sugar Ridge; Mary L., married to C. H. Sanderson, of Perry township; Horace M. and James A., at home, the latter attending school at Jerry City. The mother died November 14, 1895, aged fifty-two years, nine months, fourteen days, and was interred at Jerry City. Mr. Milbourn's father helped to organize a company to take part in the war of 1812, but news came of the close of the struggle, and they stayed at home. The patriotic devotion of our subject was also thwarted, as, after enlisting in Company D, 111th O. V. I., and staying at Camp Toledo for three weeks, he was rejected on account of an accidental injury to his knee received some time before. He returned home and resumed his place in local affairs, befriending every progressive movement, and serving for three years as constable, and five years as township trustee; of late years, however, he has declined to be a candidate. His able discharge of his duties has given him an extensive influence among the Republicans of this county, and has won for him the esteem of all classes, regardless of party. He is a leading member of the Christian Church at Jerry City, in which he was deacon for many years and is now elder; his wife was also a member of this Church. GEORGE FURRY, a worthy representative of one of the honored pioneer families of this county, is a native of Ohio, born in Stark county, in 1831, and is a son of Jacob and Fanny (Butler) Furry, both natives of Franklin county, Penn., the former born in 1797, and the latter in 1804. In their native State they passed their childhood days, were married, and in 1829 removed to Stark county, Ohio, where the father followed his trade of shoemaking until coming to Wood county in 1833. In Troy township he entered a tract of land in Section 5, which he began to clear and improve, but later sold that property and purchased a farm in what is now Lake township, but was then a part of Troy township. He was the first settler on the Ridge, and was the second to make a purchase there. He died in Lake township, June 21, 1866, and his wife, who survived him many years, died on the old homestead on August 21, 1887. Their family consisted of nine children. (1) Jacob H., who died at Pemberville, in July, 1895, had enlisted in the Union army in 1861, as a member of Company E, 72nd O. V. I., was wounded at the battle of Shiloh, after which he was honorably discharged and returned home, but in 1864 he re-enlisted in the same company and regiment, and was sent to the hospital. He was discharged in 1865. (2) George, of this sketch, is the next in order of birth. (3) William,. who became a member of the same company as his brother Jacob, was taken prisoner at the battle of Guntown, and confined in Andersonville and Florence, being incarcerated for over nine months. He now resides on the old home farm in Lake township. (4) Mrs. Jane Whitemore makes her home in Haskins, Wood county. (5) Margaret died at East Toledo, Ohio, in July, 1890. (6) John, who also enlisted in 1861, in Company E, 72nd O. V. I., died at .Woodville, Sandusky Co., Ohio, May 3, 1887. He gallantly served for three years in the Union army. (7) Catherine is the wife of J. B. McCutchen, of Troy township. (8) Mary wedded Martin Shook, of the same township. (9) Charles resides at Gibsonburg, Sandusky county. Our subject was but two years of age on coming to Wood county with his parents, the trip being made with an ox-team and cart. He was educated in the district schools of Troy and Lake townships, and remained a member of his father's household until seventeen years of age, when he began learning the carpenter's trade, which he 696 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. would follow during the summer season. At the age of twenty-four he again took up his books and continued his studies for four years; at the end of which time he commenced teaching. That profession he has since followed during the winter months with the exception of two terms. In 1865, at Toledo, Ohio, he enlisted in Company G, 189th O. V. I., and was mustered into the United States service at Columbus, Ohio. He was appointed first sergeant, was stationed near Huntsville, Ala., and was mustered out as sergeantmajor, being honorably discharged at Nashville, Tenn., September 28, 1865, after which he returned to his home in Wood county. In Sandusky county, Ohio, in 1862, Mr. Furry was united in marriage with Miss Sarah. Jane Manchester, a native of Fremont, Ohio, who died in Lake township, Wood county, in 1867, leaving ' two daughters, namely: Adda Luella, who died in September, 1892; and Sarah Jane, wife of Dr. A. G. Snyder, of East Toledo, Ohio. In Lake township, in 1870, Mr. Furry was again married, his second union being with Miss Elizabeth Wicks, whose birth occurred in Sandusky county. Her parents, John and Sarah (Hartsell) Wicks, were natives of Pennsylvania, whence they moved to Wayne county, Ohio, later to Sandusky, and finally located in Lake township, Wood county, where they both passed away, the mother in June, 1891. Mr. and Mrs. Furry have seven children: Frank, who is married and resides at Stony Ridge, Wood county; Lottie Alinda, Mabel May, Hattie, Stella, Roy and Zoa. In his political views, Mr. Furry is a Republican, and he and his wife are faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. For sixty-three years he has now made his home in Wood county, has witnessed almost its entire growth and development, and has been instrumental in helping to bring about the wonderful changes that have taken place. He has many warm friends throughout the county, and by all who know him is held in the highest regard. J. Q. ADAMS, a representative agriculturist of Washington township, was born in Orleans county, N. Y., October 8, 1824, and is a son of Elijah and Phoebe (Crosby) Adams, the former a native of Vermont, the latter of New York State. Elijah's parents were both drowned while crossing Lake Champlain on the ice, with a team, leaving to the care of others their only child, Elijah, who was adopted and reared by Jesse Hard, of near Manchester, Vt. But little is known of our subject's ancestry, not even the names of his grandparents. To Elijah and Phoebe Adams were born seven children : Marietta, deceased wife of David Kempton; Sallie, who was the wife of William Turner, and died in Indiana; Lydia, who was the wife of Ransom Hollis, but both are now deceased; William, who was a cooper by trade, and has also passed away; J. Q., the subject of this sketch; Lyman, who resides in Monroeville, Huron Co., Ohio; and Guilford, who died in Huron county, in which county the father also departed this life, September 30, 1839, where he had resided since 1833. The mother then made her home with our subject, her death occurring December 26, 1877. The district schools of Ridgefield township, Huron Co., Ohio, afforded J. Q. Adams his educational privileges; but at an early age he was compelled to lay aside his studies, and take up the sterner duties of life. From the age of fifteen he supported his mother, engaging in farming on shares. In March, 1857, he came to Wood county with his family, having the previous year purchased eighty acres of land in Washington township, which he at once began to improve, erecting thereon a good house, also barns, and planting an excellent orchard. To his original purchase he afterward added forty acres, but has now deeded that part of his property to his son. Mr. Adams was married in Huron county, October 14, 1847, to Miss Jane J. Cadwell, of Lorain county, Ohio, and to them were born four children, of whom Garry and Harrison both died in 1863, and the youngest in infancy. Frank, the third son, was born August 11, 1857, on the old homestead, where he grew to manhood, receiving his education in the district schools of the neighborhood, and he has always aided in the operation of the home farm. For the past three years he has served as trustee of Washington township. In 188o he wedded Mary Killyen, and they have four children: Floyd, born October 19, 1882; Ray, born July 8, 1884; Paul F., born October 1, 1885; and May, born May 21, 1887. The wife of our subject, who was a most estimable lady, died June 6, 1886, leaving many friends as well as her immediate family to mourn her loss. She was a daughter of Daniel D. and Laura (Williams) Cadwell, who were married in Pittsfield, Ohio, September 26, 1816, and had two children both born in Troy, Ohio: Mary Ann, born January 11, 1818, and Jane J. (Mrs. J. Q. Adams), born April 9, 1820. The mother of these died June 23, 1831, and the father subsequently remarried; the date of his death is not known. In his political views, Mr. Adams is a stalwart J. Q. & Jane Adams WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 697 Republican, unwavering in his allegiance to his party, whose principles he believes are calculated to promote the country's best interests. While in no sense a politician, he has always taken an interest in his party, and several times has been delegate to conventions-both Congressional and county. For a number of years he served as trustee and supervisor, was also a member of the school board, and from April, 1886, to April, 1892, was a justice of the peace, _during which time he solemnized several marriages. No case has ever been appealed from his court, showing that he held the hands of justice with a balance that was beyond the interference of any court, and to the satisfaction of all. In religious belief he is a Universalist, although his family attend the Presbyterian Church. For a time he was a member of the National Guards, and in the Masonic order he has attained the seventh degree in the Royal Arch Chapter, belonging to Lodge No. 451, of Tontogany, and the Chapter of Bowling Green. J. WININGER, who for many years has been the postmaster at Hatton, and is also a prosperous merchant of that village, was born in Seneca county, Ohio, December 2, 1839, the son of Adam and Mary (Sheller) Wininger. The father of our subject was a Pennsylvanian by birth, but was a pioneer settler of Seneca county, and, at the time of our subject's birth, was living one mile from what is now Fostoria, on land which is now included in the limits of that city. When he was a child his parents removed to near Berwick, Ohio, where they owned eighty acres of unimproved land. He attended the district schools in the intervals of hard work, and was often prevented from even this scanty amount of schooling on account of high water, which covered the wet, swampy land in this section, near Fostoria. The young people of to-day have but little idea of the trials and privations the youth of those pioneer times had to undergo in order to procure even the limited schooling which they received, and it is to their credit that they grew up to be, in most cases, intelligent, well-informed men who laid the foundations for one of the most prosperous commonwealths among the States. Mr. Wininger remained on his father's farm until reaching his majority, when he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked at intervals for a number of years. On October 6, 1856, he was married, in Fostoria, to Miss Sarah Stevens, who was born in Pennsylvania, daughter of Benjamin and Catherine Stevens, Two children were born of this union: Laura E., who resides with her father, and Adelia, now Mrs. Earl Dillon, of Seneca county, Ohio. Mr. Wininger began his active life without any assistance, at first renting land near Fostoria, which he farmed until his removal, in the spring of 1873, to a tract of eighty acres of wild land in Section 3, Perry township, for which he paid $1,000, a legacy which was left to his wife, about this time aiding him materially in its purchase. No improvements whatever were on this place; but the young man was a worker, and the effects of many, days of hard labor were soon noticeable. Each year saw the land increasing in value, but by the time it had reached a high state of cultivation, the incessant work had begun to tell on its owner, and he was compelled to seek some less laborious employment. He concluded to start in the grocery business at Hatton, but so cautious was he about investing in an enterprise entirely unfamiliar, that he bought at first only about $75 worth of goods, and not until 1885 did he remove his family to Hatton. It was soon necessary, however, to seek other quarters for the transaction of his rapidly-growing business, which has proved successful beyond his highest expectations. He now owns his store, the greater part of which he has built, and carries a stock of general merchandise, his trade being an extensive one, both in the immediate vicinity and throughout the township. He also owns and resides in the finest house in Hatton, and in addition to his farm of eighty acres, which he still carries on, is the owner of other valuable property. On October 1, 1861, Mr. Wininger enlisted in Company D, 72nd Regiment, O. V. I., under Capt. Neufer, and participated in all the battles in which his company took part until the latter part of June, 1863, when he was taken seriously ill at Vicksburg, Miss., and was sent to the hospital at Memphis. Later he was transferred to the Invalid Corps at St. Louis, where he remained two months; then was sent to Rock Island, Ill., and from there to Washington, D. C., where he was discharged in November, 1864. During the administration of President Arthur, Mr. Wininger was appointed postmaster at Hatton, and has retained that office ever since in spite of the changes in political leaders. He is a popular man, and has been successful in pleasing all classes by his excellent management of the duties of this responsible position. He is a stanch Republican, and has held a number of minor offices, though in no sense an office-seeker. He is deserving of much credit for the active share he has had in the growth and development of his section. 698 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. and it is to such men as he that Wood county owes her position as one of the foremost among the best counties of Ohio. His worth is appreciated by his fellow citizens, who hold him in high esteem. Mr. Wininger has had the sorrow of losing his estimable wife, who departed this life August 4, 1892, at Hatton, and was laid to rest in the cemetery at Fostoria. PETER S. PAINTER, one of the most progressive and enterprising agriculturists of Bloom township, is a member of an old and highly respected pioneer family of that vicinity. His ancestors were among the early settlers of Pennsylvania, and his grandfather, Adam Painter, came from that State to Columbiana county, Ohio, in the latter part of the eighteenth century, where he bought and improved a large tract of land. His son, Peter S., our subject's father, was born there August 21, 1798, and was reared as a farmer boy and given a good start in life, financially. He was a mechanical genius, and learned various trades without any instruction, being an expert carpenter and shoemaker. He was married August 29, 1822, to Miss Elizabeth Musser, a lady of English descent, who was a native of Maryland, born October 10, 1805, the daughter of Michael Musser. Although he owned an excellent farm in his native county, our subject's father decided to seek " fresh fields and pastures new " on the then frontier line of western Ohio, and disposing of his property he bought 600 acres of land in Bloom township, to which he brought his family in the spring of 1839. They traveled in an old-fashioned scoop-shaped wagon drawn by horses and oxen, and slept many nights in their rude vehicle or camped out near the road. A hewed log house was their first home, with wolves, deer, wild turkeys, and bears for neighbors, the latter making free with their stock unless guarded against constantly. Of the twelve children of this pioneer couple, eight were born in Columbiana county: James died in infancy; J. Adam, born February 9, 1824, was a member of Company D, 99th O. V. I., and died at Nashville, Tenn., where he was buried; Margaret A. (deceased), born July 11, 1829, married Dr. D. K. Pratt, of California; Michael M., September 11, 1828, died at McComb, Ohio; Henry, November 11, 1830, lives in Nebraska; Samuel, December 8, 1832, lives in Oskaloosa, Ill.; Catherine A., December 15, 1834, married J. M. Sweeney, a native of Scotland, now deceased, and she resides in Hartford, Conn.; John, January 28, 1837, died in Wood county. Four other children were born in this county: Sarah E., September 10, 1839, married William Russell, and died in Bloom township; Peter S., Jr., August 7, 1841; Nancy, November 11, 1843, married Abraham Hampshire, of Ottumwa, Iowa; and Hiram Z., born July 15, 1846, died in Bloom township. Our subject's father was a powerful man, six feet two inches in height, and weighing over 200 pounds. After a few years of toil at the new home, he died-December 7, 1845-and was buried at West Millgrove, his wife surviving him nearly fifty years, bringing up their large family of children to take useful and honorable places in life. She was known for miles around as the "Doctor," and was called for wherever there was any serious illness to nurse, and often to prescribe for the sufferer. She made many long trips through the woods on these errands, protected from the wild animals by a large, brown dog, " Beldy," who had more than one desperate and bloody encounter with wolves after which his wounds would be dressed as if he were a human being. The devoted labors of this noble woman were but poorly paid, and sometimes not paid at all, so far as outward return went. She possessed marvelous vitality, and lived until June 6, 1895, the last twenty years being spent in the home of our subject. During her first years in Wood county, she had a remarkable escape from death. Her husband was chopping a tree, and she came near without attracting his attention, and the tree fell toward her; but a large fork in it separated the branches, which struck the ground on each side of her, so that she was not injured. Her remains were interred in Bloom Chapel cemetery. Peter S. Painter, our subject, went to live with an uncle, John Snyder, when he was seven years old, and at twelve began to work for neighboring farmers, doing any work suitable for his strength, which was unusual for a boy of his age. He was "at home wherever he took his hat off," and he did a great deal of work at cutting wheat by cradle in this and adjoining counties. He at tended the district schools of his time, and the realization of their deficiencies makes him anxious that the rising generation should have the best advantages that can be given them. On August 15, 1861, he enlisted, in Bloom township, in Company H, 49th O. V. I. under Capt. O. B. Hays, and Col. W. H. Gibson. After training at Tiffin and Camp Dennison, they went to the front, taking stock cars from Cincinnati to their first engagement at Green River, Ky. His regiment was the celebrated " Black Swamp Jayhawkers," and during their entire service they were at the front, never being assigned to guard or WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 699 picket duty. Mr. Painter took no furlough, but remained on duty throughout the war, and participated in every battle of his regiment, except for a term of four weeks, in hospital, from a wound received at Missionary Ridge, November 25, 1863. He was transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, April 10, 1864. After his return home he began farming " on his own hook," renting a place in Bloom township. On May 25, 1865, he married Miss Mary J. Swinehart, who was born March 31, 1841, in Perry township, where her parents, John and Elizabeth (Hale) Swinehart, were pioneer farmers, having come from Jefferson county, at an early day. Four children were born to this union: Clyde R., a lawyer of Bowling Green; Eva, a teacher in Bloom township; Malissa, a teacher; and Mollie, a teacher in Milton township, all three living at home. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Painter bought forty acres of land in Perry township, making his first payment with $250, saved from his $13 per month as a soldier. Two years later he sold it, and bought the homestead in Bloom township, containing forty acres. In April, 1871, he moved to Clay county, Ill., buying a farm there, but in November, 1874 he returned to Ohio, having lost in the meantime about $2, 500. He rented land in Bloom township, and afterward bought eighty acres of it, which he improved, setting out fruit and ornamental trees, and erecting buildings. In 1894 he built a new barn, 45 x 75, which is one of the best of the fine modern barns of the township. His success is well deserved, as it is based upon hard work and wise management, and his fair dealing and upright principles have won for him the high esteem of his neighbors. He is a great reader, and keeps himself well informed upon the topics of the time. Politically, he is a Republican; but although he takes keen interest in the success of his party, he has declined all tenders of official positions, either in the township or county. He is a member of Urie Post No. 110, G. A. R., of Bloomdale. REV. DAVID BRANDEBERRY, one of the most highly-respected citizens of this section of the country, is engaged in the work of the Methodist Episcopal ministry, serving the people of Bettsville Circuit, Seneca county. He was born in Bloom township, Wood county, December 6, 1854, and is the second son and fourth child of Thomas C. and Catherine (Miller) Brandeberry. He obtained his early education at District School No. 8, his first teacher being W. S. Richard, and, as he learned easily and rapidly, he soon mastered the common English branches taught there. The greater part of his knowledge, however, has been acquired since leaving the school room, mostly by reading and observation. From the time he was old enough he assisted in the work of the home farm until his marriage, which important event in his life occurred on November 21, 1878, when Miss Lydia Bowers became his wife. She is a native of Ohio, born in Licking county, October 9, 1858, and is a daughter of Lewis and Rebecca (Bailey) Bowers. Her education was also secured in the common schools, and by her marriage she became the mother of a son-Edward D., who died at the age of seven months. In June, 1890, Mr. Brandeberry was licensed as a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He then pursued a four-years' course of study arranged by the bishops of the Church, and was graduated in 1894, receiving the highest grade in a class of nine. In 1895 he entered the Conference in a traveling relation, and is now pursuing another four-years' course of study in connection with his work. In 1894 he was appointed to serve Hammansburg and South Liberty. The following year he was on Hoytville Circuit, and in 1896 received his present appointment at Bettsville. Though only in the work a few years, Mr. Brandeberry has developed those qualities that have advanced him from one of the minor places to one of the best circuits in the Central Ohio Conference. He is an earnest Christian worker, and gains the love and confidence of all with whom he comes in contact. From the time he cast his first vote up to 1893, he always supported the Republican party, but is now a strong Prohibitionist. By his friends he has been offered political positions; but his aspirations are not in that line, though he takes quite an interest in public matters, desiring to see the most competent men placed in office. He possesses a farm of forty-one acres in Section 35, Bloom township. JOHN W. FARK is an enterprising farmer of Troy township, pleasantly located in Section 11, and although his residence in this county is of comparatively short duration, he has already identified himself with the representative and progressive citizens. In April, 1883, he located upon his fine farm of I16 acres, then only partially improved, which he had purchased the previous year, coming here from Toledo, Ohio, and has since devoted his time and attention to general farming and stock raising. Mr. Fark was born in Woodville township, 700 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. Sandusky Co., Ohio, in 1854, and is a son of Ernst Henry and Louisa (Miller) Fark. The father, who was a native of Hanover, Germany, was unmarried on locating in Sandusky county, and at an early day he also worked in Perrysburg, Wood county. For his first wife he wedded Mary Borchesding, who died in Woodville township, leaving two daughters-Caroline, wife of Henry Ernsthausen, of Freedom township, Wood county; and Mrs. Eliza Hartman, of Lucas county, Ohio. In 1853, in Woodville township, Sandusky county, was celebrated the marriage of Ernst Henry Fark and Miss Louisa Miller, who was born in Germany, and is a daughter of Diedrich Miller, one of the early pioneers of Woodville township, where he helped to build the pike, and there spent his remaining days. Mr. and Mrs. Fark still make their home in Woodville township, where he developed a farm from the forest, and reared a family of seven children, who are still living, namely: John W., of this sketch; Henry, who resides upon the home farm; William, who is foreman of a telegraph line of Toledo; Mrs. Kate Aufderhide, of the same city; August, who is married, and is engaged in bookkeeping in Toledo; Mrs. Emma Hoodlebrink, of Woodville; and Fred, at home. Like most farmer boys, John W. Fark was reared, and in the schools of Woodville township obtained his education. At the age of twenty-two he left the parental roof, being for two years employed as a farm hand, and then went to Toledo, where he worked at car repairing for two months during the day time, and then was made night inspector, which position he held for one year. His next employment was in a foundry, but after a short time he entered a sash factory. and on leaving that place secured work on a telegraph line. He next came to Troy township, Wood county, where he has since resided. At Toledo, in 1881, Mr. Fark was joined in wedlock with Miss Louisa Havekost, whose birth occurred in Monroe, Mich. Her parents, John and Anna (Behrens) Havekost, were both natives of Germany. The father, who was an ocean sailor, went in 1849 to California, where he worked in the mines for a time, after which he returned to the Fatherland, and on again coming to the United States located near Monroe, Mich., where he and his wife still live. Seven children have been born to our subject and his wife Ernest John, Charley H., Lewis, Annie, Lorena, Gertrude and Mabel, the latter of whom died September 7, 1896, aged eleven months. The parents are members of the Lutheran Church at Woodville, and in politics he is a Democrat, by which party he was elected in I890 as trustee, and still continues to fill that office. For six years he efficiently served as a member of the school board, and for two terms was supervisor. GEORGE HAMPSHIRE, for many years one of the leading well-to-do farmers and extensive landowners of Portage township, Wood county, is now living retired from active work, enjoying the prosperity which he acquired by hard work during his early years. He is a native of Ohio, born February 1, 1831, in Morgan county, near Eagleport, son of Jonas and Mary (Swope) Hampshire. Jonas Hampshire was born October 16, 1808, in Baltimore county, Md., son of Barney Hampshire, who in 1811 removed with his family to Ohio, locating first in Muskingum county, where they lived seven years, and thence removing to Morgan county. Barney Hampshire was drowned in the Muskingum river. He was the father of eleven children-four sons and seven daughters. Jonas Hampshire was married in 1830, in Morgan county, to Mary Swope, daughter of Jacob Swope, and two children were born to them there-George and Henry. In the fall of 1832 the family removed to Seneca county, locating in Jackson township, where Mr. Hampshire had entered 16o acres of land, and they, were pioneers in that region, the country being very sparsely' settled at the time of their arrival. They continued to reside there for over twenty years, in 1858 removing to Wood county and settling on a farm in Section 34, Portage township. Here Mr. Hampshire had invested in 200 acres of farm land, on which the timber was still standing, no trees having been chopped except by coon hunters. He cleared the land, however, and continued to improve it during his lifetime, converting it into a valuable property. A hardworking man, he met with well-merited success, at the time of his death being the owner of 316 acres of land east of Jerry City, and thirty-three acres south, residing on the latter place for some years previous to his decease. He gave each of his children a farm. He became quite prominent in Jackson township, Seneca county, where he served as township trustee and assessor, and he was an ardent believer in the principles of the Democratic party. Having a natural aptitude for military tactics, he took great interest in such affairs, and was captain of a company of home militia in Jackson township, Seneca Co., Ohio. Of the children born to Jonas and Mary Hampshire the following named lived to maturity: George; Henry, who lives in Garden City, Kans. ; George & Nancy Hampshire WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 701 Emanuel, of Garnet, Kans.; Abraham, now living in Ottumwa, Iowa; Rachel, who married Solomon S. Frederick, and died in Henry township; and Catharine (Mrs. John Cupp), of Hammansburg. The mother of these died in 1866, in Portage township, and for his second wife Mr. Hampshire wedded, on December 11, 1866, Mrs. Hannah (Clinger) Sanderlin. To this union were born three children-Jonas W., of Portage township; Aminda, who died in young womanhood; and John, who is a farmer of Bloom township. Mr. Hampshire passed from earth July 29, 1892, in Bloom township, and was laid to rest in Jerry City cemetery. He was a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Hampshire possessed a strong will, and force of character, traits which marked the whole course of his life, and which were no small factors in his success and popularity. George Hampshire passed all his early life in a pioneer region, and he was initiated into the mysteries of agriculture in a new country at a tender age. They lived two miles from a school, and, work at home being plenty, he as the eldest son could not be spared from the farm, so that the greater part of his education has been acquired by his own efforts. On December 4, 1851, he was married, in Jackson township, Seneca county, to Miss Nancy Foster, who was born in that township February 8, 1833, daughter of Christian Foster, who came to Seneca county from Perry county, this State, in an early day. After his marriage our subject farmed on his father's land, in Seneca county, until January 31, 1865, when he removed to Wood county, taking up his home on an eighty-acre tract in Section 33, Portage township, of which at that time but two acres were cleared, and seven acres chopped, and the dwelling and farm buildings were but rude structures. Mr. Hampshire was obliged to go in debt $500 for this tract, and he at once set to work to make it productive, succeeding so well that he was later enabled to buy eighty acres adjoining his original purchase. He also has 110 acres in Bloom township, being the owner, altogether, of 27o acres of excellent farm land. Mr. Hampshire does not now engage in active farm work, having acquired a snug competence for his declining years. He is, indeed, a self-made man, and throughout his business career he has retained his honorable standing among his fellowmen, who esteem him for his many sterling qualities. He has been trustee in his township two terms, and has also served as school director, but he is no politician, and, though he is a Democrat in sentiment, he supports the best man, regardless of party ties. Mr. and Mrs. Hampshire have had children as follows: Amanda (now Mrs. Daniel Smith), of Liberty township; Mary E. (Mrs. A. W. Lefler), of Toledo; Jonas H., who was deputy sheriff of Wood county and a registered pharmacist, and now living on a farm of ninety acres of his own, one and one-half miles from Bowling Green; Magdalena R. (Mrs. J. D. Simons), of Findlay, Ohio; Lucinda, living at home; Alice M. (Mrs. Charles Harnard), of Jerry City; Amelia (Mrs. John Harrison), of Portage township; Christ C., a farmer of Bloom township; Charles W., at home; and Cora E., who died when four years old. In religious connection Mr. and Mrs. Hampshire are active members of the Radical United Brethren Church, and he is at present serving as trustee. GEORGE M. PALMER, a leading citizen and representative farmer of Montgomery township, residing in Section 28, was born in Penfield township, Lorain Co., Ohio, January 17, 1857, and is a son of Randolph P. and Esther C. Palmer. His father, whose birth occurred in Camden, N. Y., in the year 1820, migrated to Penfield township, Lorain county, in 1835, with his parents, Edward and Lucretia (Babcock) Palmer, where the former died, but the death of the latter occurred in Wood county. Both, however, were interred in Lorain county. Randolph P. Palmer had good educational advantages for his day, and for six years was a successful teacher in the schools of Lexington, Ky. On November 16, 1847, in Grafton township, Lorain county, he wedded Mrs. Esther C. Pearmain, who was born at Mayfield, N. Y., April 29, 1820, and was the widow of Edward Pearmain. Her father, William McConnell, was the son of George McConnell, a native of Scotland, and a graduate of the University of Edinburgh, who at one time was the tutor of a son of the Duke of Hamilton, and later of Noah Webster. Her father, who was a cripple for many years, was a man of much more than ordinary intellect, and for thirty-five years served as justice of the peace in New York, in which State he lived before coming to Ohio. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Jerusha Hale, was born in Pittsfield, Conn., a daughter of Joseph Hale, and a relative of the celebrated John P. Hale. Mr. McConnell died at Lagrange, Ohio, December 30, 1863, where he located on coming from New York, and his wife passed away at Grafton, Ohio, August 9, 1856. They were devout Methodists. They reared a family of ten children-three sons and seven daughters. Al- 702 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. though he owned a farm, he never actively engaged in its operation, as his crippled condition would not permit it. Being a good scholar, he was also an able writer. It was in 1860 that the father of our subject came to Wood county, locating first in Montgomery township, but after a short time removing to Freeport (now Prairie Depot), where he conducted a hotel in an old log building. Later he replaced this by a frame structure, where he continued to carry on the hotel business in connection with work at the carpenter's trade, and also owned a farm adjoining the village on the north. On May 2, 1864, he joined Company K, 144th O. V. I., and died July 14, 1864, of typhoid fever in the hospital at Fort Dix, Md. His remains were interred at that place. He was considerably above the average man, intellectually, and being a great reader was well-informed on topics of general interest. In politics he was first a Whig, and later a Republican. After the death of her husband Mrs. Palmer sold the hotel property, and removed to the farm, where she remained until her children were grown. Her death occurred at the home of a daughter in Oneida, Kans., January 26, 1891. In the family were four children: Wilton, born December 24, 1849, who is a physician of Los Angeles, Cal.; Cleantha E., born September 19, 1852, Mrs. George Dale, of Los Angeles; George M. and Laura I., born September 25, 1858, now Mrs. David Gilmore, of Oneida, Kansas. George M. Palmer was only a child when brought to Wood county by his parents, who first located in Section 13, Montgomery township, near the county line, after a short residence there removing to Prairie Depot, where our subject attended the common schools. Being a warm friend of the cause of education, the improvements made in the schools are in accordance with his ideas. During his youth he assisted in the work of the home farm, but at the age of twenty-one he entered the general store of S. E. Tilton as a clerk, and there remained for seven years. On February 1, 1883, in Montgomery township, Mr. Palmer was united in marriage with Miss Agnes W. Telfer, who was born in Pennsylvania, January 7, 1859, daughter of John and Martha (Craig) Telfer, the former of Scotch and the latter of Irish extraction. They came from Deerfield, Ohio, to Montgomery township, Wood county, and here the father died. In their family were seven children-three sons and four daughters. Seven children graced the union of our subject and his wife: John R., born May 5, 1884; Kenneth W., born March 5, 1886; Esther M., born May 25, 1888; Roland C., born July 22, 1890, died August 21, 1892; Thomas T., born July 15, 1892; Margaret E., born July 3, 1894; and George McKinley, born September 16, 1896. Palmer's addition to Prairie Depot was so named because it was taken from a part of Randolph P. Palmer's farm, and our subject purchased the remaining thirteen acres, which adjoined the village. After residing there for some time, he traded it for a tract of land in Section 13, Montgomery township; but on March 20, 1892, he removed to his present farm in Section 28, comprising sixty acres of excellent land. He also owns 12o acres in Marseilles township, Wyandot Co., Ohio. Upon his present farm he has five producing oil wells, and upon the old farm adjoining Prairie Depot, was found the most fertile field in the township. He is one of the most progressive and prosperous farmers of the locality, and is. well-informed on the leading topics-of the day. A stanch Republican, he has much more than a voting interest in the success of his party; for three terms was clerk of his township, and since 1894 has been trustee. Socially he is identified with the I. O. O. F., the Sons of Veterans and the Patrons of Industry, and he merits and receives in the highest degree the respect and confidence of the community in which he lives. E. M. FRIES, an able young attorney of Bowling Green, junior member of the firm of Parker & Fries, was born in Bloom township, September 29, 1866, the fifth in a family of seven children born to his parents, who were natives of Lehigh county, Penn., where the ancestors of both had settled at an early period. His father's people were of Scotch and English blood, but had lived so long among the Pennsylvania-Dutch that they spoke their language. Solomon Fries, our subject's father, was born November 24, 1824, and his mother, Louisa Charlotte Steckel, a lady of Dutch descent, was born in 183 5. They were married in Tiffin, Ohio, where for several years Mr. Fries followed the bricklayer's trade, and in 1862 they removed to their present home in Bloom township. After some years of attendance at the district school, our subject spent two years in the academy at Fostoria, and the same length of time in the Ohio Normal University, at Ada, taking the course in civil engineering in addition to his work in the literary department. After leaving school he taught one year, and then entered the employ of the L. E. & W. R. R. as civil engineer. A year WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 703 later he went to Seattle, Wash., where he remained eighteen months, working for the city engineer and for a land company. Returning to Ohio, he took a course in the Cincinnati Law School, graduating in 1893 with the degree of LL. B. He then came to Bowling Green, and after a year of preliminary work in an office he became a partner of Robert S. Parker. His fine native talents and thorough training give warrant to his large circle of friends in their expectations of a successful career. In politics he is a Republican. GEORGE W. HEDGE, an extensive lumber dealer residing at Prairie Depot, is one of the best-known and most popular citizens of Montgomery township, and was born in the town of Abbeyville, Medina Co., Ohio, February 22, 1848. He is the eldest child of his parents, George B. and Catherine M. (Crawford) Hedge.. When our subject was seven years old the family moved to Wood county, and he entered District School No. 3, in Montgomery township, which was taught by Mrs. S. C. Guernsey. He had already attended school in Medina county, entering at the early age of four years. He was very apt at learning, and after spending some time in the district school was sent to a private institution at Prairie Depot, taught by a Mr. McPeck. His father was at this time in the sawmill business, and the lad early acquired a knowledge of its details, so that when seventeen years of age he took entire charge of the mill, early displaying the ability which has manifested itself in the more extensive operations of his later days. Mr. Hedge remained at home until his marriage, December 28, 1873, in Prairie Depot, to Miss Melita Graham, daughter of John and Melita (Anderson) Graham. She was born January 8, 1852, in Montgomery township, and was educated in the district schools of that locality. The young couple located on twenty acres in Section 20, Montgomery township, which, with the exception of a clearing of three acres, was in its primitive condition, covered with trees and brush, which had to be cleared away before a house could be erected. On this place Mr. Hedge lived, cultivating his land, and at the same time working in the mill with his father, who had made him a partner in the business when he was only twenty-two years old. They had in operation at this time a self acting shingle machine, which was the first one of the kind in this part of Wood county. This partnership continued until February, 1888, when it was dissolved, and in June, 1889, our subject started the mill which he is now operating. On January 5, 1874, Mr. Hedge was the victim of a terrible accident, from the effects of which he will never recover. He was caught in a belt, and dragged under the shaft and thrown some distance, his right arm being torn into pieces, the hand being thrown in one direction, and other portions in different places, while the bone at the shoulder was entirely stripped of flesh for some nine inches. It was a horrible sight, but Mr. Hedge walked unassisted to his house, a distance of thirty rods. Many a man would have succumbed to such a shock, but his great vitality aided his rapid recovery, and in four weeks he was again ready to attend to business. Although the loss of his arm has been a great hardship, he has mastered every detail of his business, and has been remarkably successful in all his undertakings. His saw, planing and feed mill is an extensive plant, built in modern style, equipped with the latest machinery, and from ten to twelve men are employed the year round. In connection with this he has a large lumber business, and handles all kinds of woods, both native and foreign. He has erected the dwelling in which the family lives, his home place has been transformed into fertile fields and fruitful orchards, and comfortable buildings, with all modern conveniences, have taken the place of the primitive structure in which he at first made his home. Mr. Hedge now owns 284 acres of land in Montgomery township. He is a stockholder in the Wood County Fair Association, and is one of Montgomery township's leading men and representative citizens. His grand success in a business, wherein a majority fail, can be attributed to his thorough knowledge of its requirements, and to his fair and honest methods of dealing. There is no detail in his establishment, no matter how intricate, that he is not perfectly familiar with. While suffering under the disadvantage of having but one arm, he can skillfully operate machinery that many men with both arms would not be able to manipulate. While he had no capital in the way of money with which to start in life, his association with his father, as a member of the firm of George B. Hedge & Son, gave him great prestige and credit, which in later years he has never abused, and as an individual he stands as high as that firm ever did. Mr. Hedge has a delightful home, in which he takes great pleasure, and there are few men in Wood county in private life who have so extensive and so valuable a circle of acquaintances. One child, only, has blessed the union of our subject and his wife, a daughter, 704 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. named Carrie. For many years she was a great sufferer from inflammatory rheumatism, but through the best medical skill that money could procure, and the tender nursing of her devoted parents, she has finally recovered. In his political views Mr. Hedge is in sympathy with the Democratic party, but supports good men for office, even if they happen to be of some other political faith. He belongs to the I. O. O. F. at Prairie Depot, and both he and his wife are members of the Rebekah Lodge. JOHN W. KNIGHT, one of the worthy citizens that England has furnished to Ohio, was born September 1, 1852, in Taunton, England, and is a son of Thomas and Eliza (Warren) Knight, also natives of the same country. He was about four years of age when his parents removed to the Isle of Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands. There he attended French schools and became thoroughly conversant with the French language; he also had an English governess at home. When a youth of nine summers he was brought by his parents to America on a German vessel, which landed at New York, October 10, 1861, and the family took up their residence in Sandusky, Erie Co., Ohio. Our subject attended the public schools of that place, and completed his education in a business college in that town. Subsequently he was for five years employed in the printing office of the Sandusky journal, but was obliged to abandon that vocation on account of ill health. He then came with his parents to Wood county, and here followed farming continuously until 1891, when he turned his attention to the development of oil wells, and now owns and controls fifteen wells, from which he derives a good income. He also served as postmaster at Trombley, to which position he was appointed during President Cleveland's first administration, being the first incumbent in the office. Mr. Knight was married in Liberty township, October 30, 1878, to Mrs. Apalinda (Mercer) Whitacre, widow of Samuel Whitacre. She had two children by her first marriage: Olearius T. and Eletha 0., both students in Bethany College, West Virginia. The children of the second marriage were Lloyd, who died at the age of sixteen months; and Deyo R., at home. Our subject has prospered in his business undertakings, owing to his well-directed efforts. He is now the owner of 49o acres of land, lying in Liberty, Henry, Jackson and Weston townships, 120 acres of which came by inheritance to Mrs. Knight, from her father, Daniel Mercer, late of Bowling Green (familiarly known as "Uncle Dan"), and from the Whitacre estate. Mr. Knight has erected a handsome barn, as good a one as the county affords, also a poultry house and yards, which are worthy the notice of many poultry owners. He also owns on his premises an electric-light plant, lighting his residence and barn, all the building and fixing being done during the year 1896. In politics our subject was formerly a Democrat, but is now a stalwart Prohibitionist. For many years he has served as school director, and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend, while in Church work he takes an active part, and is now elder in the Disciples Church. JOSEPH BENDER is one of the industrious and skillful farmers, fruit growers and gardeners of Center township, and one of the representative men of that portion of Wood county. He is the owner of a splendid farm, all of which is highly cultivated; his residence, which is a very handsome and commodious one, his fine barns and outbuildings, add materially to the appearance of the place, and to its value from a financial point of view. He is a native of Crawford county, Ohio, born June 8, 1830. His father, George Bender, was born in Cumberland county, Penn., where he learned the trade of a carpenter and joiner, which he followed there, but when still a young man removed to Crawford county, Ohio, and there engaged in farming. He wedded Mary Failor, and they became the parents of seven children: Elizabeth, wife of Nelson Close, of Crawford county; Andrew F., a retired farmer of Michigan; Mary, wife of John Ealy, an agriculturist of Crawford county; Susan, wife of John Kyser, a very systematic and industrious farmer, a prominent Grange lecturer, and a representative of his county in the State legislature; George, a time honored minister of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ; Samuel, deceased; and Joseph, of this sketch. The father died in Crawford county, and the mother, who preceded him to the world beyond, passed away in 1832. Joseph Bender continued on the home farm until reaching his majority, receiving as good an education as could be obtained in the common schools of that period, which education he supplemented by two years attendance at Otterbein University, and then spent three years teaching school. He then went to Wyandot county, Ohio, which was mostly inhabited by Indians, and remained there several years, devoting his time and attention to the Cultivation of a Apalinda Knight John W. Knight WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 705 farm of seventy acres, which he converted into a valuable tract. On selling out, he came to Wood county, buying forty-six acres of land in Center township. There he built a fine residence at a cost of $2,000, put up good barns and outbuildings, and, besides general farming, gives a great deal of attention to fruit growing-having an excellent orchard, and other land planted in berries. He finds a ready sale for his products in the markets of Bowling Green, and on his place has some very fine Jersey cows-the best in the county-in which he takes an especial pride, and he is fast becoming an extensive breeder and shipper of A. J. C. C. stock. In Wyandot county, in 1854, Mr. Bender was married to Miss T. M. Wilcox, and to them were born two children: Wilder Pease, born August 14, 1855, received his primary education in the district schools, and was graduated with high honors from Otterbein University in the classical course in the class of 188o, of which class he was elected orator; he then took a course in theology, and was ordained a minister of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, in 1883; he is now a prominent minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church of the Central Ohio Conference, and is at present stationed at Port Jefferson, Ohio. His wife was Miss Kate Kershner, of Bowling Green. Sherman Larkum, the younger son, was born July 5, 1857, received his primary education in the district schools, and was a student in Otterbein University until his junior year, when he was obliged to give up his literary pursuits and cherished desire of the profession of law, on account of failing eyes; he is now in the employ of the United States Express Company at Toledo, Ohio. He married Miss Jessie Stackhouse, of Fremont, Ohio. Mr. Bender is classed by his fellow citizens as one of the public-spirited and representative men of the township, and merits and receives the warmest confidence and esteem of the entire community. He is a worthy and sincere Christian gentleman, holding membership with the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, of which he has been trustee, besides holding other offices, and his family also hold the same faith. He and his two sons take an active interest in everything for the welfare of their township and county, and use their right of franchise in support of the Republican party. JOHN H. MONASMITH. Among the young and energetic farmers of the county is this gentleman, who is successfully operating a fine farm in Bloom township. He is a representative of one of the honored pioneer families, his parents being Elias H. and Elizabeth (Flaugher) Monasmith, and was born October 14, 1865, in Section 28, Bloom township. The father's birth occurred in Mahoning county, Ohio, March 10, 1831, and he was one of the eleven children of George and Esther Monasmith, the others being John P., Susan, Elizabeth, Samuel, Henry, Mary A., Lydia E., Martin, Levi and Martha C. Five of the numberserved in the Union army during the Civil warSamuel, Henry, Martin, John P. and Elias H., the latter belonging to Company E, 144th O. V. I., serving until honorably discharged at the close of his term of enlistment. He was first married in Mahoning county to Elizabeth Musser, who there died, leaving one child-W. E., now a resident of Bloom township. It was in 1859 that the father arrived in Wood county, entirely without means, owning only a horse and buggy. He had recently passed through a siege of typhoid fever, which, together with the expenses of his wife's sickness and death, exhausted his resources, and he was $i00 in debt. Rinehart Simon kindly offered him a home until he could obtain work. For his second wife he wedded Elizabeth Flaugher, one of the fifteen children-seven sons and Light daughters- of Jacob and Elizabeth Flaugher, and they became the parents of three children-Flora, now Mrs. Adam Exline, of North Baltimore, Ohio; John H., subject of this review; and Frank W., a farmer of Bloom township. The mother, who was a Methodist in religious belief, died in September, 1890, and was laid to rest in Bloom Chapel cemetery. Later the father married Elizabeth Kistler, of Newton Falls, Ohio. At the time of his first purchase of forty acres of land in Bloom township he had $8o to pay on the same, and he took up his abode in the house once occupied by Smith, the noted horse-thief, who had fled from the community at. the time his thefts were discovered. Besides his farming operations, Mr. Monasmith also engaged in ditching to a considerable extent, and continued to make his home in Bloom township, engaged in improving the farm to its present fine condition, until April 1, 1895, when he removed to Newton Falls, Ohio, where he is now living retired,. though he still owns ninety acres of valuable land in Bloom township. He became one of the well-to-do farmers and highly respected citizens of the community, honored alike by young and old, rich and poor. His political support is given to the Republican party. John H. Monasmith acquired a practical education in District School No. 8, and, in addition 706 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. to his farm duties, at the age of fifteen years he began ditching for his father, which business he followed until after reaching his majority. On April 13, 1891, in Bloom township, he was united in marriage with Miss Ella Ridgely, a daughter of William H. Ridgely, and their union has been blessed by the birth of three childrenEmma C., born March 22, 1892; Pearl M., born September 7, 1893; and Ervy C., born August .27, 1895. Mr. Monasmith is a straightforward agriculturist and business man, honorable in all his dealings, and is destined to win success in his chosen calling. He has done much in the work of placing the old homestead under a high state of cultivation, so that it yields him bountiful returns. He is identified with the Republican party, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while his wife belongs to the Disciples Church. They are earnest Christian people, and are the center of a large circle of warm friends. JOHN H. COX, who carries on farming operations in Plain township, is a native of the county, having been born June 2, 1853, in Center township, and is a son of Joseph and Jane (Underwood) Cox. Joseph Cox was born September 30, 1802, in Virginia, whence, in 1816, he moved with his parents to Findlay, Ohio, which at that time was but an Indian village, known as Fort Findlay. ,On September 2, 1838, he married Jane R. Underwood, and to them were born twelve children -eight sons and four daughters-of whom seven sons survive. Five of the eight sons served in the war of the Rebellion, fighting for their country, and one of them, Joseph U., never reached home again, dying from wounds received at the battle of Murfreesboro. Of the four daughters, two died in infancy, the other two growing to womanhood, and dying within about one year of each other. The father was a pioneer of Wood county, and his life was one of hardships; but he was always upright and honest in all his dealings; was equally patriotic, and ,ever zealous for the right. He died December 7, 1878, aged 76 years, 2 months and 7 days. Our subject was educated at the district school of Perrysburg township, and worked on his father's farm until 1889, when he bought eighty acres of land in Plain township, known as the "Chapman Farm." On this he has placed many improvements, and converted it into a valuable property. In 1879 he married Miss Naomi De Selms, who was born in Ottawa county, in 1855, a daughter of Jason De Selms. Of this union have been born eight children, namely: Ethel G.; Jessie M. (deceased) ; Lucretia L.; John W.; Ralph E.; Clyde H.; Jason D., and Dwight L. (deceased). Mr. Cox has served as school director in both Perrysburg and Plain townships, and is a member of the United Brethren Church, at Bowling Green. JAMES MILLER, a retired agriculturist, residing in Bowling Green, was born in Cambridgeshire, England, July 12, 1838. When he was about four years old, his father came to America with his family, and after a voyage of six weeks landed at New York, from there going to Cleveland, subsequently to Medina, Ohio, and finally settled in Wood county, April 15, 1854. The father of our subject, William Miller, was born in Soham, Cambridgeshire, England, September 13, 1801, and was married in 1828 to Elizabeth Turner, whose birth took place December 11, 1802, in Reading, Berkshire, England, William Miller was a tailor by occupation, and after coming to this country worked at his trade in the various places in which he lived, owning a shop in Medina. After coming to Wood county he purchased a farm in Liberty township, on which his family resided while he carried on his occupation, working for some years for Austin VanBlarcum, of Portage, He afterward went to Kansas with one of his sons, and died at Clifton, that State, June 28, 1877, his wife having passed away many years previous, her death taking place March 28, 1848. Mr. Miller, Sr. was a man of fine proportions and weighed 18o pounds. He was an intelligent, active man, a great reader and well-informed. He and his wife were devoted members of the Episcopal Church, and were consistent Christian people. In politics he was a Republican, and was a loyal citizen of his adopted country. To him and his estimable wife the following children were born : Sarah married Charles Waters, now deceased, and lives in Medina, Ohio; Henry, died when fourteen years old; Ann married Isaac Waters, and they now reside in Kansas; Robert is a banker in Tiffin, Ohio; William died February 16, 1887, in his fifty-third year; James is our subject; Thomas is a farmer in Clifton, Washington Co., Kans; Eliza is the wife of Arbor Tebbit, of Medina, Ohio; the ninth child died in infancy. James Miller grew up on his father's farm in Liberty township, and obtained a good education in, the district school of Liberty township. He was first married August 14, 1861, to Miss Mary Parmenter, who was born at Portage, Ohio, De- WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 707 cember 7, 1841, and died March 23, 1876, leaving three children:. Henry, born April 14, 1864, died October 26, of the following year; John Sherman, born September 3, 1865, married Mrs. Johnson, and lives in Bowling Green; Clara E., born October 21, 1872, died April 1, 1892. Mr. Miller was again married April 15, 1877, his bride being Miss Zerelza C. Aller, who was born June 20, 1854, in Geauga county, Ohio. Of this union four children have been born, namely: Ernest Wm., born March 28, 1878, is attending school in Bowling Green; Grace E., born October 22, 1879, and Royal J., born June 20, 1885, also in school; and True E., born January 30, 1888. Mr. Miller owns a good farm of eighty acres which is in the oil belt, and has some wells upon it; he is now living retired from active business, but takes an interest in the growth and welfare of his town and county, and is always ready to do his share to assist in public enterprises. With his estimable wife he is a member of the Disciples Church, to which Mrs. Miller has belonged since thirteen years of age. He was at one time a Republican, but of late years has affiliated with the Prohibition party, and uses his influence in the promotion of temperance principles. He has many warm friends in Bowling Green and vicinity. Mrs. Miller is a daughter of Zacheus and Lucy Ann (Martin) Aller, both of whom were born near Syracuse, N. Y., of which place their parents were early settlers, and where they were married. In 1861 they removed to Wood county, settling in Liberty township, where the father died in 1863, when fifty-one years of age. The mother subsequently married Daniel Mercer (whose sketch will be found on another page of this work), and is residing in Bowling Green; Daniel Mercer died September 23, 1896, leaving a widow and seventeen children. JOHN MCLAIN, a prominent citizen of Grand Rapids township, the owner of a fine farm, and a leader in local affairs, was born in Holmes county, Ohio, March 30, 1833. He is of Scotch descent, his grandparents, Sarah and John McLain, having emigrated to America about the end of the last century, and located upon a farm in Mifflin county, Penn., where their son Robert, our subject's father, was born October 12, 1802. During the boyhood of Robert McLain, the family moved to Jefferson county, Ohio, where his father engaged in salt manufacturing and the distilling of spirits. Robert M. McLain was married, in Jefferson county, to Miss Rachel B. Barton, a lady of German and Irish parentage, and a native of Mifflin county, Penn. After their marriage they moved to Holmes county, and lived there about thirty years; then, in 1852, they moved to Wood county, and bought, first, 16o acres of land in what is now Grand Rapids township, where they spent the remainder of their lives, the father dying in 1880, the mother' preceding him to the grave by two years. They held a prominent place among the early settlers of their vicinity, their sterling qualities of mind and heart winning the regard for them of all who knew them. Twelve children were born of their union, of whom the last two died in infancy. The others were: Elizabeth; now the widow of David Hannah, of Henry county, Ohio; Sarah, who married James Vorhes, both now deceased; Samuel, who was a soldier in the Civil war, and died while in prison at Salisbury; John, our subject; William, a member of the police force at Toledo; Nancy, who died in girlhood; Martha, wife of Emanuel Guyer, a farmer of Weston township; Thomas, deceased at the age of four years; Nancy Jane, the wife of S. Burwell; and Mary J., who died at the age of four years. John McLain, whose name opens this sketch, received his early education at his native place, the school house of his district being a log cabin, with greased paper in the windows as a substitute for glass. He worked upon his father's farm until he was twenty-five years old, when he bought sixty acres of land near Grand Rapids, which he cleared and improved, and to which he has since added until he now owns 125 acres, all under cultivation, and some valuable town property. He no longer shares in the active work, delegating that to other hands; but he still superintends the estate, residing, however, in the town of Grand Rapids. He is a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted at Perrysburg, August 8, 1862, in Company D, 111th O. V. I., under Col. Bond and Capt. J. E. McGowan, and served throughout the struggle. His regiment was assigned to the 23d Corps, army of the Ohio, and participated in over thirty important engagements, including those of Knoxville, Atlanta (entire campaign), Nashville and Franklin. Mr. McLain was fortunate in escaping the bullets of the enemy, but received a serious injury from falling into a washout. He was discharged at Cleveland, June 29, 1865, and soon afterward engaged in the hardware business in Toledo, which he carried on for five years, when he returned to his Wood county farm. He was married October 1, 1858, to Miss Eliza J. Brown, a daughter of Alexander Brown, a leading citizen 708 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. of Weston township. Two children came of this marriage: Lillie A., born August 14, 1859, died September 21, 1875; and Edward, born August 25, 1868, now a promising young agriculturist of Henry county, Ohio. The mother of these died of heart disease, January 25, 1884, and our subject afterward wedded Miss Angeline Hiner, daughter of Henry Hiner, a prominent farmer of Wayne county, Ohio. They have no children. Mrs. McLain is an able and generous worker in various lines of philanthropic effort, and a leading member of the Home Missionary Society and the Aid Society of the M. E. Church, in which denomination our subject is also an active worker, having been a trustee for fifteen years, also holding the offices of steward, class leader and Sunday-school superintendent. His good judgment, enterprising spirit and fine executive ability have often been turned to the service of the community at large, and he is a favorite candidate of the Republican party in his locality, having served as supervisor fifteen years, school director fifteen years, and assessor two years; in 1890 he was census enumerator, and he is now serving his second term as township trustee. During the winter of 1875-76 he was in the United States mail service between Sandusky and Chicago. Socially, he is a member of the G. A. R., Post No. 24, at Grand Rapids, Ohio, which he organized, and he has been commander (with the exception of a few years) since its organization, active and earnest in the work of caring for and assisting his needy soldier comrades., HENRY A. ROBERTSON is a representative of one of the honored pioneer families- of Wood county. His father, Amelius Robertson, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1822, and with his parents came to this country during his child hood. The family was one of the first to settle on Hull Prairie, and there the father of our subject secured eighty acres of land, which he transformed into a highly cultivated farm. He soon became recognized as one of the leading and influential citizens of the community, and for sixteen years served as a justice of the peace. He was united in marriage with Margaret W. Frazer, who was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1827. Their union was blessed with eight children: Henry A.; Dr. James F., who was born May 22, 1855, and is a practicing physician in Kansas; John A., who was born November 27, 1858, is operating the old homestead; George, born August 23, 1861; Mary A., born September 2, 1863, wife of O. M. Ulrich, of Dayton, Ohio; Fray A. D., born September 21, 1865; Margaret E. R., who was born April 3, 1869, and died April 24, 1870; Marjory F., born September 16, 1872, now keeping house for her brother. The father of this family died July 7, 1888, and the mother passed away September 24, 1894. Our subject began his education in the log school house near his home, and there became familiar with the rudiments of knowledge; but subsequently he pursued a course of study in the State University at Columbus, Ohio, becoming a civil engineer. Since that time he has followed his chosen profession to a greater or less extent. He is now residing on the old homestead, and is extensively engaged in the raising of fine poultry. Mr. Robertson gives his political support to the Republican party, but has never been an office seeker. He has, however, served for one term as road supervisor. In manner he is quiet and unassuming, and his genuine worth, his genial and affable manner and his sterling qualities have won him the friendship and regard of many. ALBERT G. HENRY, M. D., a prominent and enterprising physician of North Baltimore, is a. native of Hancock county, Ohio, born November 5, 1849. His paternal grandfather, John Henry, was a native of Pennsylvania, and died in Hancock county. The grandmother died in Findlay at the advanced age of ninety-three years. James L. Henry, father of our subject, was born June 9, 1821, in Perry county, Penn. Coming to Hancock county, Ohio, he bought a farm there, and later served as superintendent of the Hancock County Infirmary; was also elected sheriff of the county. He married Miss Frances Dodge, who died in Hancock county, in 1861; her husband followed her to the home beyond. April 1, 1884. Their children were as follows Albert G., subject of this sketch; Edward; J. C.; Araminta, who married G. Chase, of Findlay; Sophrona, the wife of Alonzo Baker; Lizzie D., who married Charles Pendleton, of Findlay. Mr. Henry married a second time, and by that union had one son, Claude. Dr. Henry was reared in Hancock county, and was graduated' from the Ada Normal School in 1870. He began teaching when only sixteen years old, going to school in his leisure moments, and reading medicine. His preceptors were F. J. Baldwin and S. S. Yoder, M. D., the latter of whom was also a member of Congress. Dr. Henry was graduated from the Medical Department of the University of Michigan in 1873, and commenced to practice medicine in North Balti WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 709 more on June 23, of the same year. In 1881 he completed a post-graduate course in Columbus Medical College, Columbus, Ohio. When the town began to develop Dr. Henry became known as one of its leading spirits and active and enterprising citizens, and gave almost every enterprise the benefit of his assistance, among which were the glass companies, town water works, electric light plants, etc. He built the first drug store, and built and owns the Henry Opera House Block, one of the finest structures in the county. He also instituted and backed a steam laundry company. In 1894 his opera house was destroyed by fire, causing a loss of $25,000; however, he promptly rebuilt it. It is 45 by 153 feet, with a seating capacity of 1,000. Dr. Henry is also owner and manager of the North Baltimore Electric Light & Power Company, which is valued at $50,000. He is the owner of eighty acres of land near North Baltimore, on which are ten oil wells, and thus it will be seen that Dr. Henry is a large property owner. He is a prominent member of society, has a large practice, and his genial nature has won for him many friends. He is surgeon for the C. H. & D. R. R., and the B. & O. R. R.; is a member of the Baltimore & Ohio Railway Surgeons Association, of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Society, of the State Medical Society, and also of the American Medical Association. Politically he supports the Democratic party. In 1874 our subject was married to Miss Emma F. Eaton, who was born in Hancock county, October 31, 1851. They have had two children, Carl and Cleah, the latter of whom was taken away March 7, 1896, at the early age of eighteen years; she was an accomplished musician, a devoted daughter and a lover of home, and the void in the family circle can only be realized and understood by those who have passed through similar trials. JOHN RUSSELL, a wealthy, retired agriculturist residing in Bowling Green, is a native of this county, born in Center township, March 19, 1838. His father, Joseph Russell, was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, where his parents, who came from Pennsylvania, were among the earliest settlers. He married Miss Eliza Dupes, and afterward moved to Wood county, and took up b00 acres of land, a part of which is now in the possession of our subject, by purchase. He returned with the family to his old home several times, and engaged in farming there, but finally settled down in Wood county to stay, and died there in 1865, at the age of seventy-two. His wife departed this life January 9, 1889, aged seventy-seven years. They were true pioneers, patriotic, energetic and courageous. Three daughters and five sons were born to them, and of the latter, five did gallant service in the Union army during the Civil war, and passed through many engagements without receiving any serious wounds. Our subject was the fourth child in this family. The others are: Jane, who married W. Underwood; James; Sarah (deceased), who married Joseph Anderson; Joseph; Susan, the widow of George Garner; Britton, and Charles, all residents of the county. Mr. Russell made the most of the educational opportunities afforded by the district schools near the old homestead when he was a boy, and later engaged in farming as an occupation. In 1862 he volunteered in Company K, 21st O. V. I., and served under Sherman, taking part in all the principal battles of the army of the West. He was married, February 16, 1864, while at home on a furlough, to Miss Amanda Rogers, who was born in Seneca county,, Ohio, August 11, 1839. After being mustered out, July 30, 1865, he returned to the old farm in Center township, where he lived twenty-seven years. He still owns 100 acres there, and holds the original papers which passed the title from the government to his father. A few years ago he bought a fine property at the county-seat, where he and his wife now reside. He has one daughter, Clara E., born June 16, 1867, who was married September 13, 1887, to E. L. Crum, of Wood county; they have two children, Ruth and John. Mr. Russell is a Republican in politics, and a charter member of Wiley Post, G. A. R. He and his wife are among the leading members of the M. E. Church, and active helpers in every worthy cause. JAMES M. BROWN, one of the most prominent citizens of Perrysburg township, residing near Dowling, was born in Bellefontaine, Logan Co., Ohio, April 27, 1830. His parents, Harlin S. and Mary A. (Colvin) Brown, were natives of Kentucky, but were married in Logan county, in October, 1829, and lived there for some years, the father following the trade of shoemaker. Eleven children were born to them: Elizabeth, deceased; John C., now a resident of Monticello, Ind.; Joseph H., deceased; Rosana and Mahlon S., deceased; Annie E., now the wife of James H. Linton, of Botkins, Ohio; James M., our subject; Thomas A. and Margaret J., deceased; Wilson W., of Dowling, Ohio; and Charles L., residing in Roscommon, Michigan. 710 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. Squire Brown, as his friends call him (and his friends are found wherever he is known), received his early education in the schools of Newtown, Ind., where his parents moved when he was but four years old. He was bound out to work for his board and clothes when a boy, and at nineteen found employment on the Erie canal. He continued in this occupation until he was married to Miss Euritta J. Egbert, who was born in Findlay, Ohio, October 20, 1834. He then sought a better means of making a livelihood, and in 1870 moved to this county and bought forty acres of land in Perrysburg township, which he has since carefully improved. He is now one of the opulent farmers of the vicinity, and holds an important place in the community, his natural ability and integrity of character having gained him the entire confidence of all who know him. He was first elected justice of the peace in 1877, and has now held the office for more than eighteen consecutive years. He has been a member of the school board for the same length of time, and for six years has been a notary public. Where he is well known he receives votes irrespective of party lines, but, being a Democrat, the large Republican plurality in this county has prevented him from entering county office, although the members of his party have often prevailed upon him to lead the "forlorn hope" for the sake of their cause. He has displayed the spirit of the true soldier on many occasion, and in 1861 was among the first to respond to the call of his country, enlisting in Company H, 57th O. V. I., and serving until December, 1863. There were six of the Brown boys, who enlisted in the war of the Rebellion in 1861, thus furnishing Uncle Sam with at least eighteen years of service. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., Fort Meigs Lodge No. 774, of the F. & A. M., Phoenix Lodge No. 123, and of Robert Stewart Post No. 690, G. A. R. He is the present postmaster at Dowling. JOSEPH REDFEARN. Like a giant oak in a forest of weather-beaten comrades, the subject of this sketch stands prominent among those noble pioneers whose best energies have been spent in bringing Wood county forward to her present high position in the magnificent galaxy of Ohio's counties. He was born February 14, 1812, in Muker, Yorkshire, England. His father, Francis Redfearn, a farmer and miner there, married Ruth Milner, and reared a family of six children. In 1830 they came to the United States on the "Caledonia," landing at Philadelphia after a voyage of seven weeks and four days. He first located at Pottsville, Penn., where he mined coal for some time, and on coming to Ohio spent two years in Wayne county, and then settled in Washington township, Hancock county, in the woods. To reach their new home they had to cut a road for their wagon for most of the way from Fostoria (then Rome and Risdon), and they crossed the Sandusky river by floating their wagon and making their cattle swim the stream. In later years our subject's father ought a large tract of land in Jo Davies county, Ill., near Apple River, where he died January 13, 1858, his wife having passed to her final rest November 9 of the previous year. Of their children the eldest, Peter, died at Apple River at the age of fifty years from injuries received in a runaway. Francis died at Warren, Ill., at seventy-eight years of age. Joseph is our subject. Ruth was married in the fall of 1830 to Charles Gouldborough, of Minneapolis, Minn., with whom she has now passed over sixty-five years of married life. Elizabeth is the widow of Robert Levitt, of Arlington, S. D. Margaret married John Eaton, and died at Apple River at the age of sixty. Joseph Redfearn had little opportunity for education, but he was ambitious, and, while working on the farm during the day, he attended night school in England-paying two cents a night. He was eighteen years old when the family came to America, and he quickly found employment as a farm hand, being unusually strong and active. He could mow two acres of grass in a day with a scythe, and has done many a large day's work at threshing with a flail, being paid fifty cents per day, and even that was not always in cash. He was married January 8, 1835, to Miss Ann Phillips, a native of Pennsylvania, born July 19, 1816, the daughter of Benjamin Phillips, an early settler of Washington township, Hancock county. He and his wife began housekeeping on fifty acres of land, a gift from his father, and he entered forty acres more, all -in the woods. " He traded 'this soon after to his brother, Francis, for a tract of eighty acres in Bloom township, Wood county, to which he removed December 7, 1837, their first home being a comfortable log house. Tiffin was the nearest point where a good gristmill could be found, though there were several horse mills in the neighborhood. Twelve children were born to our subject and his wife, all of whom lived to mature age: Henry and Francis are farmers in Nemaha county, Neb.; Peter died at McComb in 1892; Harrison, a farmer of Perry township, died in 1872; Matilda A. married Dr. E. J. Reed, of Leipsic; Joseph WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 711 P. is a farmer in Cass township, Hancock county; James R. is a prominent merchant of Bloomdale; John O. is a prosperous farmer in Nemaha county, Neb., and a leading citizen of his neighborhood; Rhoda S. married Jerry Loman, and died December 1, 1894; Margaret R. is the wife of R. B. Drake, an insurance agent of Tiffin; Charles is a farmer in Perry township, and Edward T. is a farmer in Bloom township. On February 19, 1864, Mr. Redfearn's wife died, and she was buried in Fostoria cemetery. She was a woman of rare qualities of mind and heart, a devout Christian and a member of the M. E. Church, and was deeply and sincerely mourned. Mr. Redfearn never married again. Their children have taken honorable positions in life, and the family hold a prominent place in the history of this county. All are abstainers from liquors and tobacco, and their upright lives reflect honor upon the father who, by precept and example, has trained them for useful citizenship. Four sons served . in the Civil war, a remarkable record. Henry was a member of a Nebraska cavalry regiment; Peter enlisted in Wood county in the one-hundred-days' service; William H. served in the famous 49th O. V. I., the ''Black Swamp Jayhawkers, and Joseph P. was a member of the 111 th O. V. I. Mr. Redfearn has owned large tracts of land at different times, and had held the title to all the land on the west side of Main street in Bloomdale, but has sold it for building purposes. He has given his children a good start in life, and still owns 325 acres of land in Bloom and Cass townships. Despite his advanced age he is in good health, aside from being a sufferer from rheumatism, and his mental faculties are clear, his native shrewdness and caution being in no way lessened. In politics he has been identified with the Republican party from its beginning, but previously he was a Whig. He served as constable in his younger days, but has never joined in the struggle for political honors. He has, however, been a leading promoter of different measures for the public welfare, and gave liberally toward the building of the first court house at Bowling Green, Ohio. For over fifty years he has been a member of the M. E. Church, in which he has held every office except that of preacher, and he was a teacher and superintendent of the Sunday-school for many years. JOHN W. MILLER. In the latter part of the eighteenth century Christopher Miller, a native of Germany, sailed with his wife and two children for America. After a long and tedious voyage of nine months they arrived at New York. Delay after delay had occurred, and crew and passengers were on the verge of starvation. At length the vessel reached New York harbor, and Mr. Miller, with his family, proceeded to Allehgany county, Md., where he spent his remaining days. Two of his sons were soldiers of the war of 1812. The father of our subject, Andrew Miller, was born in Allegany county, on December 1, 1805. He was a man of limited education, and was reared on a farm, while throughout his business career he carried on agricultural pursuits. He married Miss Charlotte Duckworth, also a native of Allegany county, born April 8, 1812. In 1865 the father removed with his family to Delaware county, Ohio, locating on a farm of 105 acres in Trenton township, where he spent. his remaining days. His death occurred April 30, 1894, and his wife passed away, May I, 1887. Mr. and Mrs. Miller were the parents of twelve children, namely: Louise, who became the wife of Joseph Deremer, and after his death married Monroe Cockrell, her death occurring in Delaware county; Uriah, who died in Delaware county, at the age of forty-five; Harriet Ann, wife of Henry Dash, of Maryland; Almira, wife of James Loor, of Delaware county; Henry H., who is carrying on agricultural pursuits in Delaware county; Lloyd W., a farmer of Union county, Ohio; Sarah, who became the wife of Emery Leak, and died in Delaware county; Altha, wife of Jefferson Miles, of Delaware county; Mary, who is living in the same county; John W., of this review; Zeltha wife of Franklin DeWolf, of Delaware county; and Rebecca, who died at the age of three years. Our subject was a child of twelve years when he accompanied his parents to Delaware county. He began his education in an old log school house in his native county, and completed it in the district schools of this State. During vacations and after school hours he aided in the cultivation and improvement of the farm, and continued to give his father the benefit of his services until his marriage. On February 16, 1881, Mr. Miller was joined in wedlock with Miss Tina Tripier, the wedding ceremony being performed in Trenton township, Delaware county. The lady was born in Licking county, Ohio, October 13, 1857, and is a daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Payne) Tripier. Mr. and Mrs. Miller came to Wood county, and the former purchased forty acres of land in Section 25, Jackson township, continuing its cultivation and improvement for five years, when he sold and purchased his present farm compris- 712 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. ing eighty acres. He has made this one of the valuable and desirable properties in Wood county, has erected a pleasant and substantial residence, built barns and outbuildings, and fenced, tiled and ditched the entire place. The neat and thrifty appearance of the farm indicates-his careful supervision, and the place is a monument to his thrift and enterprise. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have had two children: Sperna, born July 12, 1883; and Blynn T., born May 15, 1895, died August 30, 1895. In his political views Mr. Miller is a stalwart Democrat, unswerving in his support of the principles of the party. He has been honored with several local offices,. having served as school director, road supervisor and is now trustee. His life has been an honorable and upright one, and he has the high regard of all who know him. As a citizen he is true to every duty, and gives a hearty support to all interests which he believes will benefit the community. In personal appearance he is tall and finely proportioned, and he is one of the most popular citizens of Wood county. FLOYD W. HEALD, a prominent resident of Bowling Green, and the deputy collector of the 10th District, was born in Crawford county, Penn., December 3, 1861. Genial, popular, possessed of fine mental gifts, a sound practical education, a character which inspires, confidence, a magnificent physique, he is well fitted to fill any office of public trust to which he may aspire. Until the age of fifteen, his life was spent upon a farm, assisting his father in the work, and attending the district school. In 1876 his father bought a sawmill, where Mr. Heald was as employed for some time. He then worked a while in the oil fields; but at eighteen, entered the State Normal school at Edinboro, Penn., and studied for two terms. For two years following, he was baggage master at Chautauqua, N. Y., during the summer season, and in 1882, he came to Jerry City, and entered the employ of J. D. Wilsey & Sons, as boat-oar finisher in their extensive factory. He remained with them six years, finding-or making-time, in the intervals of labor, to continue his studies in the Normal school at Fostoria, and he now holds a diploma from the business course of that institution, having passed the examination with a grade of 99 per cent. In 1884, he was elected mayor of Jerry City, by a large majority, on the Democratic ticket, and proved an efficient and popular officer. On leaving the firm of Wilsey & Sons, Mr. Heald formed a partnership with Henry Meyers in the lumber business, buying for Eastern markets; but this soon ceased to be profitable, and he went to work for the Ohio Oil Co., first as pumper and then as tool dresser, and while thus engaged he was appointed deputy sheriff of Wood county by William B. Bryant. The duties of this office were performed with his accustomed ability and. energy, and brought him into favorable notice throughout the county, and in 1895 he was appointed to his present position. He is a member of the F. & A. M., the I. O. O. F., and the K. of P. GEORGE BRIM. Ohio, as well as her sister States, has her quota of citizens of foreign birth, who, coming to this favored land in pursuit of fortune, in addition to the advantages derived from its free institutions, have not only reaped the reward of their labors in the shape of material prosperity, but have added to the resources of their communities, and to the progress and betterment of their people. Among those who claim " Merrie Old England" as the land of their nativity may be found the subject of this sketch, and the story of his life, briefly given here, may form an incentive to some other young man whose start in life may be made under no more favorable auspices than was his. George Brim was born April 25, 1834, in beautiful Devonshire, England, the son of W. W. and Harriet (Ellis) Brim. His parents were natives of the same locality, the father born August 19, 1809, and the mother October 2, 1810. They came of poor people, and when quite young were both bound out to the same man. They grew up together, shared each other's joys and sorrows, worked together and played together, and their love for each other deepened as the boy and girl developed into youth and maiden, finally culminating in their marriage, which took place January t0, 1834. For some time after this event Mr. Brim worked on a farm at $2.20 a week, and when they finally decided to come to America, in 1855, the only capital they possessed on reaching Wood county, Ohio, was one sovereign. They had, however, no end of courage and hopefulness, and with their only child, George, began their life in the new country with brave hearts and a determination to succeed. From the outset the son cast in his lot with his father, and together the two worked and managed their affairs, the younger man contributing in no small degree, by his business ability and industry, to their success in the New World. They first bought eighty acres of land in Plain township, Wood county, and added to it George & Amelia Brim WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 713 as their means increased until at one time they owned 360 acres; all of this was prairie land, which they converted into farms, and cultivated. They were prosperous from the beginning, and at his death, which took place April 5, 1885, the father was a wealthy man. The mother is now making her home with her son George. The subject of this sketch was married July 4, 1865, to Miss Amelia Austin, who was born in Somersetshire, England, February i0, 1848. Her parents were James and Mary (Keats) Austin, the former of whom, born in England in 1823, died in Wood county in 1865; the latter also died in Wood county. Mr. and Mrs. Brim have had a family of four children: (I) James E., born April 16, 1866, married Lena Knauss, and lives in Bowling Green; they have three children-Walter, Ethel and Mabel. (2) Walter, born October 16, 1867, was educated at the Ada Normal School, and resides at home; he was married in December, 1895, to Cora Goldsmith. (3) Samuel, born March 25, 1870, died January 3, 1871. (4) George, born November 12, 1876, is at home. Mr.. Brim is recognized as a leading man, and one of the best citizens of Wood county. He is unassuming in his manners, attends strictly to his business and has accumulated a fine property. In politics he is a Republican; socially he belongs to Centennial Lodge No 626, I. O. O. F., of Bowling Green. MICHAEL AMOS, JR. This prosperous and intelligent farmer living in Section 3, Portage township, has spent most of his life in Wood county. His father, who also bears the name of Michael, is one of the oldest living pioneers. His birth occurred in Bavaria, Germany, November 28,1818, and in October, 1837, he was brought to the United States by his parents, Michael and Caroline (Sondheimer) Amos. They took passage on the "Wild Lion" at Havre, France, and after a long and tedious voyage of thirty-six days landed safely at New York. At New Lisbon, Ohio, they remained until January, 1838, when the grandfather hired a team and brought his family to Section I, Portage. township, Wood county, where he had purchased eighty acres of partially improved land. There his death occurred September 29, 1838, from typhoid fever and nostalgia, and he was laid to rest on the farm, but his body was afterward interred in Portage cemetery. The father of our subject being the eldest son, the care of the family fell upon him, and, in order to better perform this duty, he worked for others as a farm hand. His widowed mother lived with him a great portion of the time, but died at the home of her son Frederick, in Portage township. In 1844, Mr. Amos married . Theresa Brackley, a native of Lancaster, Ohio, and a daughter of Michael Brackley, a carpenter by trade.- Eight children came to bless their union: Michael, of this review; Philip, a farmer of Portage township; Catherine, who became the wife of Ezra Heminger, and died in Center township; John, who died in the same township, and left a family; Anthony, a farmer of Center township; William, a butcher of the village of Portage; Charles, a farmer of Portage township; and Mary, deceased wife of Monroe Helm, of Portage. The father bought the interests of the other heirs in the old homestead, and now has a good farm of 132 acres, while he has given each of his children forty acres or its equivalent. He and his estimable wife are two of the few old pioneers left in Portage township, are highly respected people, and members of the Lutheran Church. Although they have now reached a ripe old age, and are bent by years of toil, they. are yet comparatively active. The entire life of Mr. Amos has been passed in usefulness and hard labor. He never cared for political preferment, but has served as school director and supervisor, and is a supporter of the Democratic party: On Section I, Portage township, October 4, 1848, Michael Amos, Jr., first opened his eyes to the light of day. He attended school a few months. each winter in District No. I, thus acquiring a fair education, and at the age of twenty left home, going to Nebraska, where he remained a month. For a short time he was then employed on a farm in Jefferson county, Iowa, after which he went to Pike county, Ill., and later to southeastern Missouri, where he engaged in hunting and trapping. With the money thus earned he returned to Pike county, Ill., where he was employed by James Wallace to take rafts down the river to St. Louis, Mo., which proved quite profitable, our subject receiving $2 per day and board. He worked in Illinois for some time and helped to cut 135 acres of wheat, which was bound by hand, after which he came back to Wood county. In the fall, however, he went to Missouri, where he again engaged in hunting and trapping, spent the following summer in a fishery in Illinois, and the next winter was also passed in Missouri. On returning to Wood county, he engaged in ditching and threshing for several years. On December 21, 1876, in Portage township, this county, Mr. Amos was united in marriage with Miss Emma Wilcox, a native of Sandusky 714 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. county, Ohio, and a daughter of Sterling Wilcox. Three children have been born to them : Edward B., who is attending school in Bowling Green, Ohio; and Curtis and "Cap", at home. Soon after his marriage our subject rented a farm of forty acres in Center township, and his first purchase was ninety-three acres in Section 3, Portage township, mostly unimproved, with a log house standing upon it. For three years he made that place his -home, and on selling out removed to his present farm of eighty acres in Section 2, in April, 1881. He is a wide-awake, progressive citizen, and has made his place one of the best farms in Portage township. Besides general farming, he . has also dealt in stock for several years, making many friends and acquaintances while engaged in this business. He is one of the leading workers in the Republican party in the community, and in 1886 was elected infirmary director, taking the office January 1, 1887, in which he served very acceptably for six years. Both himself and wife are esteemed members of the United Brethren Church. ISAAC G. RIDEOUT, a reliable and progressive agriculturist of Ross township, was born near Massillon, Stark Co., Ohio, May 1, 1839, and is a son of Isaac and Hannah (Galpin) Rideout, both natives of Dorsetshire, England, the former born December 24, 1793, and the latter December 3, 1798. On emigrating to the New World, in 1830, they located at Massillon, Ohio, where the father worked in the Moore & Hart foundry for a few years, but, in 1844, became a resident of Wood county, purchasing forty-five acres of the farm on which our subject now lives. Five of their ten children were born in England, and in order of girth they are as follows: James, deceased; Elizabeth, widow of T. Whitson, and a resident of Iowa; Thomas, of Lucas county, Ohio; Jane, wife of John Kinney, of Lime City, Ohio; and William, deceased. The births of the others occurred in Stark county, Ohio-Anna, deceased; Mary Ann, wife of James Craine, of Lucas county; Margaret, the deceased wife of a Mr. Vickers; Isaac G., and Mrs. Lavina McDougall. Our subject obtained his education in the first log school house erected in Ross township, but his advantages along that line were limited. He remained at home until twenty-two years of age, when, October 22, 1861, at Toledo, Ohio, he enlisted in the Union army, as a member of Company B, 67th O. V. I., under Capt. Ford, and Col. A. C. Voris, of Akron, Ohio, and after serving his entire term, at Hilton Head, S. C., he veteranized. He had been discharged, January 31, 1864, and after a thirty-days' furlough rejoined his regiment, and was finally discharged at Richmond, Va., September 1, 1865, after almost four years of faithful and arduous service on Southern battle fields. Returning home, Mr. Rideout has since devoted his attention to general farming, but expects soon to go into fruit raising. He has tiled. and drained his land and placed it under a high state of cultivation, and has erected three good dwellings, besides barns and other outbuildings, which stand as monuments to his thrift and industry. On Christmas Day, of 1867, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Rideout and Miss Louisa T. Coy, and to them nine children were born-Darwin, born August 28, 1868, married Carrie Smith. daughter of W. J. Smith, and they have two children, Frank and Ervin; William, born April 6, 1870, married Alberta Royce, daughter of Edward Royce, by whom he has one child, Addie Elizabeth; Ervin, was born October 9, 1872; Margaret, born December 31, 1873; is the wife of Charles Crane, and they have twin sons, Isaac . R. and Thomas C.; Charles, born December 17, 1875; Olive, born June 15, 1879; Anna, born March 2, 1882; Isaac, born July 4, 1890, died on August 4, following; and Richard, born March 24, 1894. Mr. Rideout affiliates with Ford Post, No. 14, G. A. R., of East Toledo, and with John W. Fuller Command, No. 49, U. V. U. He served as sergeant in his company, and now has a medal presented to him by Major-Gen. Q. A. Gilmore, commanding the Department of the South, for gallant and meritorious conduct on the field of battle. Since casting his first vote he has been an ardent Republican in politics, as was also his father, and has served acceptably as township treasurer for two terms, and was school director for a number of years. In all the relations of life he is honorable and upright, and as faithful to his country in days of peace, as when following the old flag in defense of the Union. J. W. LONG, an ex-soldier and highly-respected citizen of Bloom township, is descended from that race known as Scotch-Irish, which has given to America many of her best citizens. His ancestors were natives of the North of Ireland, whence his grandfather, George Long, emigrated to the United States in 1817, locating in Carroll county, Ohio, where he was married, and became the father of seven children: George, William, John, Catherine, Ellen, Susan and Alexander. The second in order of birth in that family, WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. - 715 William Long, was the father of our subject. In 1841 he was united in marriage with Sarah Metsker, a native of Westmoreland county, Penn., and to them were born six children: Mary Jane, who died in infancy; Eliza E., who became the wife of James Byall, and died in September, 1868; J. W., subject of this review; Catherine and William H., both living in Missouri; and Violet A., who died in that State in 1871. The father was a natural mechanical genius, and worked at various trades, principally carpentering and wagon making. For seven years after his marriage he continued to reside in Carroll county, and then removed to Hancock county, Ohio, near the present city of North Baltimore, where he followed his chosen occupation for the remainder of his life. His tragic death, which occurred in 1861, has few parallels in western Ohio. While engaged in remodeling the largest gristmill in Hancock county, at Gilboa, he became entangled in a belt connected with a rapidly revolving shaft, making 105 revolutions a minute, and was instantly conveyed to the shaft and horribly mangled, almost every bone in his body being broken. His untimely death left his widow and family in straitened circumstances, and our subject, then a boy of but fourteen years, being the eldest son, suddenly had to assume the responsibilities of father and provider. Mr. Long was born in Carroll county, in 1846, and was but a child of three years when his parents removed to Hancock county. As the portion of the county in which they located was quite backward, he was reared midst the trials and vicissitudes of pioneer life, and, being the eldest son of parents whose means were limited, his opportunities in many ways, including those for an education, were very meager. He first attended the Thicket school, near Van Buren, Hancock county, his teacher being Miss Angeline Warner. The numerous removals of his parents served to further handicap him in his efforts to secure his education, which was concluded at Findlay, Ohio, at the early age of fifteen years. He has seen the vast improvement in the schools of the present over those of his youth, which he heartily favors and fully endorses. While the opportunities were not his, the great school of experience has impressed him with the necessity of education. As previously stated, Mr. Long was at a youthful age compelled to perform the duties that his father's death thrust upon him, and he remained at home, administering to the wants and cares of the fatherless family, until his enlistment, on August 15, 1862, in the 111th O. V. I. It was necessary at this time for him to represent himself as being eighteen years of age, so eager was he to defend the flag which had been fired upon at Fort Sumter. His career as a soldier was interrupted by sickness, as soon after his enlistment he was seized with the measles and typhoid fever. He suffered the complete temporary loss of his eyesight, and was discharged in March, 1863, on a surgeon's certificate of disability. Our subject returned home, leaving the scenes of carnage for those of a quiet rural life, in Hancock county, a complete physical wreck. Much time and money were spent in his efforts to secure good eyesight, which came to him after a great deal of suffering; but his shattered physical condition could not be restored to its youthful vigor and vitality. He worked at whatever employment he could secure, his every spare penny going toward the support of his mother and younger brothers and sisters. On August 16, 1868, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Long and Miss Susanna Wineland, a native of Westmoreland county, Penn., and six children came to bless their union: B. F., proprietor of a bicycle livery at North Baltimore, Ohio; William H., general agent for the Porter's cure of pain remedies; Martha F., now Mrs. Charles Brandeberry, of Bloom township; James E., of the same township; and D. W. and Lemuel L., both at home. After his marriage Mr. Long located near Portage, Wood county, where he resided only a short time, and in 1869 returned to Hancock county, buying a small farm, on which he resided until 1885, when he came to Bloom township, this county. He has forty acres of rich and fertile land in Section 33, and in 1895 completed his present commodious and substantial home. He now takes life easy, having all but retired from active farm work. Politically he is a silver Democrat, and while not an office-seeker, manifests keen interest in the success of his party. For many years he belonged to the Independent Order of Good Templars, and is now a prominent member of the Grand Army of the Republic. He and his wife are consistent and active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Bairdstown, Ohio, and are held in the highest esteem by all who know them. H. L. HINKLEY, of Bowling Green, the able and popular young recorder of Wood county, was born in Milton Center, February 5, 1867. His grandparents, Luther G. and Sally M. Hinkley, came from New York State and settled in Erie county, Ohio, where their son, D. S. Hinkley, our subject's father, was born August 716 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO. 27, 1838. He learned the wagon maker's trade in early life, and came to Milton Center, where he married Miss Mary J. Hill, a native of that place, born October 28, 1846. Of late years he and his wife have made their home in Prairie Depot, where he follows the carpenter's trade. They have seven children, of whom our subject is the eldest: Lottie is the wife of W. J. Graham, of Portage township; Joseph J. and Charles are in business at Prairie Depot; and D. S., William and Jessie are three at home. Mr. Hinkley spent the first eight years of his life at his birthplace, and has since lived at Sandusky on the Bay Shore, for five years, and later at Prairie Depot. He supplemented his common school education by a course in the business department of the Fostoria Normal School, from which he graduated in October, 1891. For ten years he was a successful teacher in this county, the last three being spent at Prairie Depot, where he was principal of the high school. He resigned in June, 1895, having been elected the previous November to the position which he now holds. He was installed in office September 2, 1895. Although he is one of the youngest workers in the Republican party in this locality, he has already given evidence of marked ability in public affairs, and his friends predict a bright future for him. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Good Templars Lodge. He was married June 15, 1893,. to Miss Effie Mercer, who was born in Liberty township, December 25, 1871, and has one child, Harold Cecil. CHESTER L. POWELL (deceased) was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, November to, 1857, a son of George and Sarah Powell, and was reared near Bowling Green. He taught school for several years, and, later, for two years, kept a hardware store at Portage. This he sold, and then went to Fostoria, where for a time he and his brother, A. V. Powell, conducted a similar business. Afterward he went on the road for a hardware firm, but resigned and came to Weston, where, together with a Mr. Baldwin, he opened a clothing and furnishing-goods store, under the firm name of Baldwin & Powell. Soon afterward he bought Mr. Baldwin's interest, also the stock of shoes and the shoe-shop belonging to Mr. Ames, and he operated the store with marked success up to his death, which occurred July 6, 1893. He was admired for his business ability, and his good qualities as a citizen. In demeanor he was quiet, but firm in purpose, and seldom failed in anything he undertook. His death was greatly mourned by the community in which he resided. He was a prominent member of the. I. O. O. F., having joined the order at Fostoria, whence he " took his card " to Weston; in religious faith he was a member of the United Brethren Church. On October 7, 1886, Mr. Powell married Miss Elfa Pugh, who was born in Henry county, Ohio, November 15, 1859. John Pugh, her father, was born in the, parish of Kerry, County of Montgomery, North Wales, on the 11th day of February, 18i0, of English parents, and when twenty-one years old married and came to the United States, first locating in New York State, then in Perrysburg, Ohio, afterward in Henry county, finally, in 1877, settling in Weston, Wood county, where he died January 9, 1892. He followed the occupation of a farmer; was of the Episcopal faith; was a Whig before the war and a Republican afterward, and he voted for both the Harrisons (his first and last votes respectively). His home was the meeting place of many of the most prominent of the early pioneers of this section, and he was a great friend of the Indians. The adventures that have been rehearsed, and the stories that have been told by himself and others when gathered around the fireside, if preserved, would have been worthy of being immortalized in romance and song; but unfortunately only a faint glimpse of the conditions of life, and the character of those sturdy pioneers, have been handed down to us. Although miles of swamp and woods separated neighbor from neighbor, a common cause and, we might say, a common misfortune united them in bonds of sympathy almost as strong as family ties. John Pugh, for his second wife, married, in 1845, Clarissa B. Junkins, who was born January 3,1820, in Preston county, Va. (now W. Va.). Her father having died in Fairview, Ohio, when she was two years old, her mother subsequetly married John Rice, and in 1833 they came to Wood county; but during their first year's residence in the county, Mr. Rice died, leaving a widow with five children, viz.: Samuel, who, died when about fifty-seven years old; Thomas, a farmer of Weston township; Julia Ann; Annabella; and Clarissa B., who now resides with her daughter, Mrs. Powell; she is the mother of five children: Ann M. (now Mrs. L. McKee), of Fostoria, Ohio; Luther S., of Weston; Mrs. William Martin, also of Weston; John A., who died at the age of twenty-five; and Mrs. Elfa Powell. Mrs. Pugh was among the earliest pioneers of Wood county, coming here when but thirteen years old, with the rest of the family. When they reached Beaver creek, their destination in Wood county, RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE