904 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY

PITT TOWNSHIP

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

GEORGE W. BALDWIN was born in Hardy County, Va., March 20, 1826. He came to Ohio in 1856, and located in this county, working by, the month and farming rented land till 1860. He was married, December 25, 1860, to Elmira Hunt, daughter of Snowden Hunt (see sketch of A. 0. Hunt), she being a native of this county, born August 5, 1835. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin have three children--Cannia (wife of Henry Smith), Ambrose and Horace. Mrs. Baldwin inherited sixty acres from her father's estate, the same being in good repair and their present home. Mr. Baldwin is a Republican; he served in the late war in the 100-day call, receiving a honorable discharge. Himself and family are well-respected and good citizens.

CHRISTIAN BARTH, son of Christian and Elizabeth (Hurny) Barth, was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, January 3, 1825. His mother ied March 3, 1837, and he emigrated to America in 1844, his father and the remainder coming the following year. They located in Tuscarawas Court till 1858, when they removed to Wyandot. The father died July 2, Our subject worked at the carpenter's trade in Tuscarawas County till 1852. when he came to Wyandot, and purchased forty acres of his present home, to which he has added by subsequent purchases till he now owns 153 acres,' In 1871-72, he built his large frame house, valued at $800, and in 1875 his

*Practicing physicians.

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bank " barn, at a cost of $800. He has worked forty years at the carpenter's trade, usually employing from two to four assistants during summers. Mr. Barth was married, May 11, 1848, to Margaret, daughter of Benedict and Ann (Moser) Struchen, also natives of Switzerland. They emigrated in 1840. Mr. and Mrs. Barth have ton children living-Oliver T., C. Henry, David F., John W., Daniel B., Eli, Louis E., Albert E., Mary A. (wife of John Lawrence) and Sophia C. The deceased are Rosanna, Daniel and an infant. Mrs. Barth was born July 2, 1825. Mr. Barth is a Democrat, and has served two years as Trustee. Both are members of the Reformed Church.

JACOB BENDER was born in Richland County, Ohio, January 2, 1844. He is a son of Joseph and Catharine (Bush) Bender, natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Ohio in 1835, their children being as follows: Sarah, Mary A., Daniel, Elizabeth, John, Jacob, Catharine, Joseph, George, Margaret and Lydia. The mother died February 14, 1880, aged sixty-four years, the father is still living, in his seventy-ninth year. Jacob Bender came to this county in 1866. He engaged in various occupations till 1871, when he purchased his present farm of eighty acres, paying $3,000 for the same. He now owns sixty acres, valued at $75 per acre. He was married, March 14, 1872, to Miss Sarah Smith, daughter of Jacob and Rebecca (Foucht) Smith, and this union has been blessed by five children-Harry F., born July 4, 1873; Minnie A., April 10, 1875; Alton W., May 18, 1877; Grace V., September 15, 1880; an infant is deceased, Their mother was born February 12, 1845; she is a member of the Reformed Church. Mr. Bender is a Democrat.

D. W. BOWLBY was born in Stark County, Ohio, July 4, 1846. Emanuel and Sarah (Stall) Bowlby, his parents, were natives of Pennsylvania and of German ancestry. They came to Stark County when children, were married there, and came to this county in 1851. Their children were Samantha, Rachel, David W., Hester, Lydia, Willington, Nelson, Marshall, Alice, Sherman, William J. and an infant. Our subject obtained a fair education; at twenty-one, began work at daily wages, continuing two years; engaged in the stave business three years, and purchased his present farm in 1871, paying $2,650. In 1872, he erected a neat residence, costing $1,000. Mr. Bowlby was married, May 30, 1872, to Adaline Kriechbaum, daughter of David and Eliza (Mosky) Kriechbaum, natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers of this county, residing in Antrim Township. Politically, Mr. Bowlby is a Republican.

THOMAS M. BOWMAN was born in Huntington County, Penn., August 18, 1819. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania. His father, Samuel Bowman, was of German descent. His mother's maiden name was Elizabeth Moreland. Her ancestors came from Ireland. His parents had eight children, four sons and four daughters, of whom Thomas was the third son. At the age of eighteen, he removed with his parents to Ohio, locating in Crawford County, where they remained two years, after which time they removed to Wood County in 1837, where his parents purchased a farm and spent the remainder of their lives. During the summer months, Thomas worked on the farm and attended school in the winter until he became competent to teach, after which he continued teaching for a number of years. He practiced economy, laying aside all he could of his earnings for the purpose of purchasing a home. By the spring of 1846, he was able to purchase at the Government land sales eighty acres of land in Wyandot County, then a wild, thinly inhabited section of country. Mr. Bowman was married, May 26, 1846, to Eliza J. Gibson, daughter of George and

906 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

Hannah (Buchanan) Gibson, and a cousin of President James Buchanan, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch-Irish descent. They removed to their new home in 1848, where they continue to reside. By industry, they have added by subsequent purchases, until their home consists of 256 acres, highly improved in every respect. Mr. and Mrs. Bowman are the parents of seven children-Elizabeth, George G., Samuel, William, Isaac N., Mattie and Ellie. In addition to their own family they have an adopted daughter, Clementine. Mr. and Mrs. Bowman united with the Presbyterian Church in early life, and are now members of the Presbyterian Church of Upper Sandusky.

DAVID S. BRETZ was born in Marion County, Ohio, December 30, 1837. He is a son of Samuel and Catharine (Bibler) Bretz, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. His grandfather Bretz was drafted in the war of 1812, his son John taking his place as a substitute. His parents settled in Marion County in 1828, purchasing 320 acres of school land, afterward increasing this number to 500. Their children were Anna, Andrew D., Elizabeth B., Fanny M., Rebecca V., David S., Mahala, Amanda and Mary P., the two latter deceased. The father died in 1875, aged seventy-five years; the mother still living on the homestead in her eightieth year. David S. Bretz resided with his parents till twenty-two years of age; he then began dealing in stock, and has since engaged quite extensively in that business. In 1862, he purchased his first farm of 147 acres in Antrim Township, selling this a few years later and purchasing 403 acres on the Sandusky River, where he resided four years. Later, he disposed of this farm, and resided two years in Upper Sandusky, purchasing his present farm of 356 acres soon after, and adding, to this till he now owns 531 acres, valued at $75 per acre. Mr. Bretz was married, September 1, 1859, to Jane A. Coon, daughter of Jacob and Susanna (Harmon) Coon, early settlers of this county. Four children have been born to this union -Fannie J., Stanton E., Cora B. and Sarah E. Mr. Bretz is a Republican; he was the first Mayor of Little Sandusky, and, with his wife is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church.

JACOB A. BREWER is a native of York State, born January 21,1814; his parents, Jacob A. and Hannah (Stall) Brewer, were natives of the same State, and of German descent. They emigrated to Ohio in 1817, and located in Union County, where they resided seven years, removing to Little Sandusky in 1824, entering eighty acres of land. Their remaining children are Anna, Catharine, Jacob A., Cornelius, Peter, William and Hester J. Eliza, Lucinda and Mary C. are deceased. The father died about 1835; the mother about 1841. Jacob Brewer, our subject, spent the early part of his life with his parents; he was married at the age of twenty-one to Susan Eyman, daughter of Jacob and Hannah Eyman, early settlers of Marion County, from Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Brewer have six children living -John, Hannah (wife of John Racy), Cornelius, Oscar, Mary J. (wife of William Lumberson) and James. The deceased are: W. H. Harrison, killed in late war; Jacob A., died of disease contracted in the war, and Oscar. Mr. Brewer leased a portion of his present farm of the Indians six years, and continued on the same after their departure, purchasing sixty acres, which number he has since increased tenfold; he began married life with $50, but has always been a hard worker, and now owns one of the best farms in the township. In politics, Mr. Brewer is a Republican; he has served three years as Trustee, and is highly esteemed as a citizen; his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

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RICHARD CARTER was born in Wellsville, Ohio, June 9, 1850, son of John A. and Mary D. (Connel) Carter, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia respectively; his parents settled in Marion County in 1852, rearing a family of six children, our subject being the oldest; he obtained a good education in the district schools, and graduated at the Pittsburgh Commercial College in 1871; he was engaged five years as a commercial traveler, and, in 1876 came to Ohio, where he was married January 25, 1877, to Miss Kate Bryant, daughter of Isaac and Maria (Fisher) Bryant, and distant relative of the poet; her parents were natives of Now Jersey and New York respectively; came to Ohio where they were married about 1844. They came to this county in 1848, and entered land where Mr. Carter now resides, at the time of Mr. Bryant's death owning 2,300 acres; his children now living are Catharine, John Q., Charles and Jennie (twins), and Frank B. The deceased are Isaac, Frederick, Ai)n and Maria. Mr. and Mrs. Carter have one childKay B., born November 27, 1877. Mrs. Carter was born January 10, 1851. She inherited her present home of 320 acres, which her husband has now well stocked. Mr. Carter is a Republican, and both himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Bryant, mother of Mrs. Carter, was left a widow with six children, whom she reared and educated. She is now a resident of Bucyrus; her brother, John A. Fisher, was a Mexican soldier; also a soldier of the late war during the entire struggle, lying in Libby Prison about eighteen months; be is now a resident of Kansas, nearly blind, having lost an eye by a gunshot during the last of his service.

JOHN CASTANIEN was born in Perry County, Ohio, June 11, 1825. His parents, Alexander and Marelius (King) Castanien, were natives of Prussia and Switzerland respectively, the former crossing the ocean to escape military service, the latter emigrating at the age of four years. They were married in Perry County, where they passed their entire lives, he a farmer and teacher of German schools. He died in his sixtieth year, his wife about the same age. Their children were John, Serenus, Jacob and David. John Castanien remained at home till his twenty-fifth year, obtaining the rudiments of an education and working upon the farm. In 1848, he came to this county, his father having entered his present farm of 100 acres, then covered with timber, which our subject has since removed. He is now the owner of 440 acres; his " bank" barn is the largest in the town ship, and his dwelling was erected in 1863-64 at a cost of $2,000. Mr. Castanien was married in the autumn of 1848, to Christina Alspach, five children resulting-Mahala, Caroline (wife of Emmet Bachtel), Frank, David and Amos E, Mrs. Castanien's demise occurred in 1861, at the age of thirty-five, and Mr. C. was married, November 25, 1863, to Miss Sophia Alspach (sister of first wife), daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Runkle) Alspach, natives of Pennsylvania, residents of Perry County, Ohio. She was born April 15, 1837. Their children were William H. and Allen B. In politics, Mr. C. is an independent Democrat. He and his family are all members of the German Reformed Church, of which he was many years a Deacon.

FRANK P. CASTANIEN, son of John and Christina Castanien, was born January 27, 1853. He obtained a good education, attending the Normal School at Ada, Ohio, three terms, subsequently establishing a grocery store at that place, continuing the business several months. In 1876, he purchased his present farm of eighty acres. and has since engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was married, March 15, 1877, to Miss Emma Harlan, daughter of William and Catharine Harlan, residents of Logan County,

908 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

Ohio. Her parents had two children-John and Emma. The mother died in 1860. Mr. and Mrs. Castanien have four children-Emmet P., born May 10, 1880; Kitty B., June 1, 1882; Joseph and Esther are deceased. Mrs. C. was born October 4, 1856. Mr. Castanien is a Democrat, Master of Orange No. 503, and, with his wife, member of the Reformed Church; he was several years Superintendent of Sabbath school.

DAVID CASTANIEN, son of John and Christina (Alspach) Cas. tanien, was born July 16, 1855. He is a native of Pitt Township, where he was educated, and remained on the farm with his parents till 1878, when he moved to his present farm, which he purchased one year later, paying $50 per acre, the f arm containing eighty acres. It is now well improved, stocked with varieties of the best grade. Mr. Castanien was mar. ried, January 1, 1880, to Miss Jennie McBeth, daughter of John and Jen. nie (Swaze) McBeth, residents of Antrim Township. In politics, Mr. Cas. tanien is a Democrat. He is a member of the Reformed and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

L. HOPKINS COOK, deceased, was born in Addison County, Vt., April 2, 1810. His parents dying when he was young, he resided with a sister, Mrs. Fisher, till about 1831, when he came to Ohio, and was married two years later to Eliza Cudworth, who died soon after. November 15, 1838, be was married to Sabina Adams, daughter of John and Rachel (Cookson) Adams, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Her parents came to Ohio in 1835, settling in Richland County, where they reared a family of ten children. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are the parents of five children-Mary (wife of Jessie McCracken), Stephen R., William D., George H. and Caroline, the latter deceased. In 1846, the family came to this county and purchased 420 acres of school land, where Mrs. Cook now resides. Mr. Cook was a strong Republican. He died April 8, 1874, leaving his widow in comfortable circumstances. She was born June 11, 1821.

STEPHEN R. COOK, son of L. H. and Sabina (Adams) Cook, was born February 8, 1841. He resided with his parents till he joined the army in 1862, enlisting in Company F, One Hundred and Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Enlisting as private, he was soon promoted to Orderly, participating in the battles of Winchester, New Market, Piedmont, Lynchburg, Snicker's Gap, Berryville, Opequan, Fisher's Hill, Cedar Creek, Petersburg and Hatcher's Run. Being wounded at Cedar Creek, he was compelled to lie in a hospital six months, after which he was honorably discharged, having served three years. Returning home, he was married, June 17, 1869, to Miss Ann E. Bowman, daughter of T. N. and Eliza (Gib. son) Bowman (see sketch), and two children have been born to them - George B., May 23, 1875, and Helen E., March 29, 1878. Mrs. Cook was born January 26, 1847. He inherited twenty acres of his present farm, to which be has since added twenty, all valued at $70 per acre. Mr. Cook is a strong Republican. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church at Upper Sandusky.

DANIEL COONS was born in Fulton County, N. Y., in 1820. His parents, Thomas and Susan (Brower) Coons, were natives of the same State, and of German parentage. His paternal ancestor was a soldier of the Rev. olution, serving entirely through it. His parents came by wagon to Ohio in 1856, and located in this county one year later. Their children were Daniel, Sarah R., Mary, Thomas, Elizabeth, Benda M. and Joseph; James, John and Henry are deceased. The parents are still living, the father in his eighty-fourth year, the mother in her eighty-third. Our subject entered

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24 acres, and purchased 44 acres of his present farm of the Government, Dow owning 220 acres of bottom land valued at $80 per acre. He is an ex. pert at pigeon trapping, having realized not less than $2,500 from his sales. He traveled one year with Van Amburgh's show. Mr. Coons was married, December 11, 1849, to Lydia Dahmer, daughter of James and Sarah Dah mer, her death occurring in 1865, leaving three children-Sarah, Flora and Laura. March 19, 1866, he married Miss Caroline Wilt, daughter of Henry and Mary (Star) Wilt, this union resulting in five children-Emory, Clara A,, Eugene, Louis B. and Robert N. Mr. Coon has been a Democrat since the nomination of McClellan for the Presidency. He is an industrious citizen, and hold in high esteem by his community.

HENRY H. DAHMER was born in Pendleton County, Va., April 15, 1836; his parents were Martin and Sarah (Herner) Dahmer, natives of Virginia, and of German ancestry. His maternal grandfather was a soldier in e war of 1812. The parents were farmers; the father dying in Virginia, the mother is still living. Their children were John, Mary, George, Reuben, Henry H., Martha, William, Sampson, Adam, Jemima and Sarah, the latter deceased. Henry Dahmer worked on the farm for his father till twenty-one years of age, obtaining but a limited education; he came to this county in 1856, and engaged in ordinary labor, principally for J. S. Rappe, about seven years. In 1862, he purchased forty acres on the river near Little Sandusky; he increased this amount to seventy-one by subsequent purchases, and sold the whole in 1872, and purchased his present home of 100 acres on which he erected a fine residence at a cost of $2,000 in 1881; he makes a specialty of raising blooded Merino sheep, some of which cost him $1, 000. Mr. Dahmer was married, November 8, 1863, to Ann M. Kellar, daughter of Jacob and Maria (Warren) Kellar, natives of Pennsylvania and Delaware respectively. They were brought to Ohio when children, and spent most of their days in Franklin and Wyandot Counties. They had nine children of whom Mrs. Dahmer is the youngest. In politics, Mr. D. is a Democrat; he served as Trustee four terms and as Treasurer two terms, refusing to hold the office longer.

CHARLES FEICHTER is a native of this township, born July 27, 1853, to John and A. Barbara (Buser) Feichter, natives of Switzerland; his parents were married in 1848, and settled in this township where our subject now resides, having removed from Stark County with their parents in 1845. Their living children are Charles, Mary, Louisa, John, Albert and Elizabetb; the deceased are John, John H., Frederick, George, Eddie and an infant. The father died in 1876, aged fifty-three years. Mrs. Feichter still resides on the old homestead in her fifty-fourth year, a member of the German Reformed Church, to which Mr. F. also belonged; be left an estate of $10,000. Charles Feichter, the subject of this sketch, was married October 24, 1878, to Miss Mary A. Bower, daughter of Emanuel and Sarah J. (Swartz) Bower, of German parentage. Their children are Cbarles, 0. S., Winifred and John T. An infant is deceased. Since his marriage Mr. Feichter has been tilling his mother's farm. He recently purchased forty acres in Illinois, and is about to take his departure for that State.

C. RUSH FOWLER. This prominent citizen was born in Bradford County, Penn., December 31, 1821. His parents, Stephen and Leefe (Stevens) Fowler, were natives of Vermont and Pennsylvania respectively, and of Scotch-Irish lineage. His father was a surgeon in the war of 1812, and for many years a prominent physician in this section of the State, and the only one available, being frequently called to the various seats of the ad

910 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

joining counties on professional business. He was at one time a member of the State Legislature, and served his term with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents. His wife, Leefe, whose mother's name was Lee, was a cousin to Gen. R. E. Lee, of Confederate fame, and is still living, a resident of Upper Sandusky, in the full possession of her faculties, and in excellent health. They came to this county in 1827, and located in this township, where Mr. Fowler purchased 600 acres, adding by subsequent purchases, till he owned 3, 100 acres. They were the parents of eight children, and among the most estimable citizens of the county. He died in 1847, aged fifty-seven years. C. R. Fowler, the subject of this notice, was educated in the common schools and by the fireside at home, instructed' chiefly by his; father. He remained at home and assisted in conducting the farm till twenty-three years of age. He inherited $3,000 and a farm of 125 acres from his father's possessions, and in 1845 purchased a farm in Mifflin Township, consisting of 740 acres. In 1850, he purchased 200 acres near Little Sandusky, and to this he has added at intervals ti 11 he now owns, in this and Antrim Townships, 3,000 acres. He has dealt largely in stock, making a specialty of sheep and wool growing, though his success is mainly due to his industry and perseverance. In 1875, he erected his elegant two-story brick mansion at a cost of $17,000, it being, perhaps, as good a rural residence as there is in the county. Mr. Fowler was married, February 20, 1845,. to Miss Catharine Nesbit, daughter of Abraham and Catharine (Wallace) Nesbit, natives of Pennsylvania, and of Irish ancestry, parents of five children-James, Elizabeth, Catharine and two deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Fowler are the parents of seven children, of whom but three are living, viz., Hiram, Dwight, and Myrta, wife of Albert Boyd, of London, Ohio; the deceased are Olive, Sarah, Charles and an infant. Mr. Fowler has always been a Democrat, and strong in the faith. He served as Commissioner six years, and is among the most influential of the citizens of the county.

SCOTT M. FOWLER was born at the old homestead of Dr. Stephen Fowler, in Pitt Township, February 16, 1835, being the youngest son of the same. He resided with his parents on the farm till fourteen years of age, when his father died. He had been chosen by his father as the one son who should succeed him in the medical profession ; but the death of the latter during our subject's early years frustrated these plans. At the age of six. teen, he entered the Union School at Upper Sandusky, and in Prof. Thayer, the Superintendent, he found an earnest friend and adviser, who fanned to a flame his ardent desire to enter college and prepare himself for a profession. But his friends who were most influential in their advice under the circumstances deemed it unwise to turn the boy loose upon his own responsibilities to the "demoralizing influences of college life." It was decided, therefore, that he should take charge of his property, the homestead, and at the age of seventeen his dream of professional life and higher education vanished, his disappointment was " pocketed," and he began work upon the farm, where he continued without interruption till 1865. During the summer of 1858, he made the acquaintance of Miss Ada Bryant, of Fredericktown, Knox Co., Ohio, who was spending the summer with the family of her uncle, Rev. E. R. Wood, and this acquaintance resulted in their marriage at her home on the 29th of December of the same year. In 1865, Mr. Fowler removed to Nashville, Tenn,, to engage in Government stock speculations, and soon after embarked in the lumber business, in which his fortune was wrecked. He remained five years in Tennessee, when with health greatly impaired by hard labor, and with a desire to educate his children, he re.

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turned to this county and again took up the pursuits of the farm. He subsequently engaged in the dry goods and grocery business for a short time at Upper Sandusky and Morral, but soon returned to the farm, and in 1884 purchased land in Western Kansas, where he now resides. By the aid of his mother his three eldest daughters became graduates of the Upper Sandusky Union Schools, and by their own efforts were enabled to take a course of instruction in the Oberlin College. Mr. Fowler is a man of the strictest in it of character, and through all the years of his misfortune and self sacrifice he has worn "the white flower of a blameless life " as a citizen, a husband and a father. His children are Nora A., born October 15, 1859; H., March 27, 1861; Erin Maud, October 9, 1864; Etna Adale, June 1867; Leefe F., February 9, 1870; Stephen Bryant, December 3, 1873; Enid Marie, May 26, 1879.

STEPHEN P. FOWLER was born in Bradford County, Penn., September 1, 1826. He is a son of Dr. Stephen and Leefe Fowler, early and promnent settlers of this county (see Medical chapter). He obtained a fair education in the common district schools of his time, assisted by his parents, with whom he remained on the farm till 1854. At the age of twenty-one a obtained $3,000 from his father, from whom he also inherited about acres of land. This amount be has since largely increased and now Awns one of the finest farms in the southern part of the county, consisting I "ridge" and " valley " land, provided with four to five miles of tile drainage, and stocked with the best grades of stock. In 1877, he built his elegant and commodious residence, provided with all the modern improvements, including gas and bathing facilities. The structure is one of the most imposing, as well as convenient farmhouses in the county, and was erected at a cost of $9,000. Mr. Fowler was married, December 18, 1878, to Miss Frances Flago, daughter of Charles and Mary (Hubble) Flago, natives of New Jersey and Connecticut respectively. Her parents came to Ohio when young, and settled in Champaign County, where they reared a family of seven children, Mrs. Fowler being the youngest. Her father was ,a tailor by trade, and an influential citizen of Urbana, at one time Mayor of that city. He died in 1857; his widow (since the wife and now the widow of S. T. Hedges,) is still living, a resident of Springfield, Ohio. In politics, Mr. Fowler is a Democrat, having grown up in the faith. He is one of the leading farmers and stock-dealers of the county, by whose citizens himself and family are held in high esteem.

WILLIAM H. FRATER is a native of Harrison County, Ohio, born May 23, 1850. His parents were Thomas and Isabel (Taylor) Frater, natives of Ohio and Virginia respectively, and of Scotch ancestry. The father was born in 1820, and died in 1862; the mother in 1818, and still living, a resident of Iberia, Ohio. They had five children-George, John T., William H., Archibald and Thomas, the latter deceased. William, our subject, was educated in the district schools, subsequently spending two years in the Iberia Academy, and teaching one successful term. In 1873, he engaged as shepherd for David Harpster, and continued in his employ four years. In 1877, he erected his tile works at Fowler, and also assumed charge of the warehouse at that place, conducting the latter business three years, and still engaging extensively in the file manufacture. In 1877, he purchased three lots on which his tile yard is located, and in 1882 purchased the celebrated stallion " Brilliant," imported from France in 1875. Mr. Frater was married, June 10, 1879, to Rebecca Swartz, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth Swartz, of this county. She was born January 15,

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1857, and died January 13, 1884, leaving one son, George Earle, born December 25, 1883. Mr. F. is an active Republican, and highly esteemed as a citizen. He served as Assessor two terms, and has acquired a reasonable property by industry and economy.

SAMUEL HARMAN was. born in Berkeley County, Va., March 9, 1808. He is a son of Michael and Margaret Harman, natives of Virginia, and of German extraction. His maternal grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. His parents were married in 1792, and settled in Pickaway County in 1812, coming to this county in 1821, and, entering eighty acres where he now resides, built the first hewed-log cabin in this county, in which the first sermon heard by our -subject in this locality was preached by Rev. J. B. Finley. They purchased eighty acres soon after, and this tract of 160 acres the father tilled till his death in 1828, aged sixty-two years; the mother died in 1859, aged eighty-two. Samuel Harman, our subject, remained at home with his mother and the younger children till 1826, and aided in supporting them. He was a strong and supple young man, always a hard worker, having cut with a sickle, bound and shocked fifty dozen of wheat in one day. He was married, September 19, 1833, to Rebecca J. Church, who died exactly one year later. He was married July 31, 1838, to Lovina Armstrong, daughter of Job Armstrong, this wife dying five months later. His third marriage was to Matilda Simpson, April 6, 1842, her death occurring in 1877. Mr. Harman has no children. He inherited fifty-three acres from his father, and now owns 354 acres, well improved. He served two years as Trustee; was formerly a Whig, but now a Republican; was active during the late war, sending money, clothes and provisions to army friends. He is one of the oldest and most worthy citizens of his community.

DAVID HARPSTER, one of the most successful farmers in the State, is a native of Mifflin County, Penn., born December 28, 1816. His parents were George and Catharine (Thomas) Harpster, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German ancestry. His grandfather Harpster came to America and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. His father died when David was but eight years of age, and he removed with his mother to Wayne County, Ohio, two years later. He attended school but fifteen months, but has since acquired a good business education. After two years farming with his brother in the above county, be came to this locality in 1828 or 1829, and the following year accepted a clerkship in Bowsher & Green's store at Bowsherville, this township, where he was employed three years. He then became a member of the firm, and continued the business till 1836, when he sold his interest and engaged in the cattle business with Barnet and Thomas Hughes and James Murdock two years with excellent success. From 1838 to 1840, he drove cattle to Detroit, but in the latter year he formed a partnership with David Miller, their object being to fatten cattle in Illinois and drive them to Eastern markets, which business they conducted six years, Mr. Harpster continuing the business four years on his own responsibility. In 1845, he purchased 700 acres at the Government land sales, and to this he has subsequently added till he now owns in this township 3, 100 acres, and in Mifflin Township, 1,300; besides these tracts he has eighty acres in Van Wert County, 600 acres in Nebraska, 240 acres in Iowa, and in the counties of Ford, Campaign and McLean, Ill., 2,240 acres, all more or less improved and under fence. In 1850, Mr. Harpster settled on hill present farm, and has since engaged largely in the sheep business, shearing 900 the first year, and increasing that number annually till he had clipped as many as

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8,200 in a single year. His usual flock numbered about 7,000, but he is now disposing of his sheep, and stocking hie lands with cattle. In 1871, he erected his handsome and commodious mansion one-half mile north of Fowler, at a cost of $15,000, and is still actively engaged in superintending his large possessions. His marriage to Rachel S. Hall occurred April 6, 1847. She was a daughter of James Hall, a soldier in the war of 1812, and an early settler in Pickaway County, Ohio. Three children were born to them, two yet living-Sarah A., wife of Col. Cyrus Sears, and Ivy, wife of William L. Bones, a wholesale dry goods merchant of New York City, with residence on Staten Island. In September, 1867, Mrs. Harpster's death occurred, and Mr. H. was married, in 1877, to Miss Jane Maxwell, daughter of John Maxwell, and granddaughter of William Maxwell, who edited and published the first newspaper of Cincinnati, his wife setting it portion of the type. Mrs. Harpster is a refined and accomplished lady, and a member of the Baptist Missionary Church. In politics, Mr. H. is a strong Republican without political aspirations. In selling lots for Fowler City, he has a clause inserted in each deed stipulating that intoxicating liquors shall not be sold thereon. He is one of the most highly respected citizens of the county, and has an extensive acquaintance throughout the State. He began life a poor boy, and under very unfavorable circumstances; but by his energy, perseverance and business tact, has amassed a fortune not exceeded by that of any one in the county, owning at the present time 7,520 acres of land, and a large amount of other stock of various kinds. Besides attending to his personal business affairs, Mr. Harpster has given some attention and contributed from his means to public enterprises, in all of which he has shown the same energy, and his efforts have been crowned with the same success. The C., H. V. & T. R. R., which has brought into the county many valued conveniences, had no firmer friend nor warmer supporter during its contemplated and constructive period than Mr. Harpster, and the people of this community owe more thanks to him than to any other one man, for the location and construction of that road. At the time of one of the first surveys, the line from Marion to Sandusky passed through Pitt Township, some distance east of where the road is now located. This was something of a disappointment to those living in the western part of the township, and as Mr. Harpster and others came home from visiting the surveyors on said east line, while passing along the Little Sandusky and Bowsherville road, and as it happened within the present limits of the C., H. V. & T. right-of -way, one of the party asked Mr. Harpster what he would give to have the railroad pass at that point. He replied, the right-of -way three and one-half miles, and a wool clip. And he proved as good as his word, for when the road was built he gave the offered right-of-way and took $10,000 stock, which he increased by purchases, until when the road changed hands, he received about $23,000 for his interest. He was the founder of Fowler City, named in honor of Mr. C. R. Fowler, and has encouraged and supported the business interests of that village. He gave generously toward the construction of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Fowler.

SILAS S. HART, a native of Wayne County, Ohio, was born November 26, 1845, to Elijah and Catharine (Henning) Hart, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German and Irish lineage. His parents came to Wayne County in 1838, and to this county in 1848. Their children were Eva A., Mary, William, Israel, Joanna, Samuel, Nancy, Silas, Samilda and Hiram. Eva A. and Elizabeth are deceased. The mother died July 15, 1881; the father is still living, in his seventy-eighth year. Silas S., our subject, obtained a

914 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

good education, having attended the Upper Sandusky High School two terms, and the Greensburg Seminary the same length of time. He began teaching at twenty one, and is now teaching his twenty-second term, engaged at Little Sandusky. During summers he usually clerks in store, sells farm implements or books. Mr. Hart was married, March 5, 1874, to Elizabeth Healy, the daughter of Jacob Healy, four children having resulted from this union-Alphonso J., born December 21, 1874; Irene G., July 15, 1878; Louis G., October 8, 1881; and Ora S., July 8, 1883. Mr. Hart is a Republican, and both he and Mrs. Hart are members of the German Reformed Church.

HENRY HERRING, a native of Canton Basel, Switzerland, was born August 25, 1826. He came to the United States with his parents in the spring of 1845, and settled in New Baltimore, Fairfield Co., Ohio. He stayed there until the fall of the same year, when he moved to Wyandot County, Ohio, and " worked around " several years, until finally he could buy a small piece of land. In June, 1855, he was married to Miss Mary M. Snyder, of Hancock County, Ohio, born May 18, 1835. To them were born five children-Louisa M., Anna E., Henry, John and Rosa B. Henry died the 27th of June, 1873, at the age of ten years. The others are all about grown. Some years ago Mr. Herring built a substantial brick dwelling, and now owns 500 acres of land of fair quality, and, should his life be spared, he can live on what he acquired in his younger years.

BARNET HUGHES (deceased) was born in Greene County, Penn., September 16, 1808. His parents were Thomas and Sarah (Swan) Hughes, pioneers, of Irish nationality. Barnet came to Ohio in 1827, having previ. ously married Sarah Walton, who, dying, left him three chi ldren -Thomas, Sarah and Simeon, the latter deceased. He was married, April 27, 1845, to Catharine E. Woodcock, daughter of John L. and Margaret (Coons) Woodcock, natives of Now York, and of English and German extraction. Her parents came to this county in 1837, settling near the site of Fowler, Their children were ten in number, Mrs. Hughes being the third. Mr. and Mrs. Hughes were the parents of eleven children, eight living-Maria (wife of Orren Straw), Iva (wife of B. W. Martin), Augustus, John C. F., Catharine B. (wife of W. S. Harvey), James L., Samuel H. and William S. The deceased were John L., Mary M. and Louis S. Mr. Hughes began in stock dealing quite young, and continued the business till his death, at which time be owned 1,000 acres of land in one tract. He was an expert hunter and an admirer of fast horses, of which he reared and sold many. He was a Republican, and served as Trustee several terms. He died November 26, 1873, leaving an estate of $60,000. His widow still resides on the old homestead of 326 acres, which is tilled by her sons Samuel and William. She is now, in her fifty-eighth year, strong and healthful.

JAMES LINDSEY HUGHES, son of Barnet and Catharine E. (Woodcock) Hughes, was born June 9, 1860. He is a native of Pitt Township, and was educated in the district schools, remaining at home till his marriage to Miss Belle Young, February 9. 1882. She was a daughter of Edward and Sarah (Kerr) Young; she was born June 24, 1861; was educated in the common district school, and commenced teaching school when she was six. teen years old, and taught until she was married. Mr. and Mrs. Hughes have one child, Jamie B., born January 12, 1883. Mr. Hughes inherited seventy acres of land from his father's estate, and erected a comfortable residence in 1883. He is a Republican, and a substantial, hard-working citizen.

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AMBROSE C. HUNT is a native of this township, born October 10, 1841; his parents are Snowden and Lydia (Updegraff) Hunt, natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania respectively, the latter of German ancestry. They came to this county soon after their marriage in 1827, and settled on the present homestead, purchasing first eighty acres, and adding to this till his possessions embraced 505 acres. Their children were Ambrose C., William S., Elvira, Nancy and Elmira. The father died in 1851, aged thirty-six years, the mother in 1878, aged sixty-two. At her husband's death she was left with five children (the oldest less than thirteen years) which she reared, and in the mean time paid for one hundred acres of land. Ambrose Hunt remained on the homestead, farming and dealing in stock till his marriage, May 6, 1877, to Miss Jennie, daughter of David and Elizabeth (Stillwagoner) Swartz, born November 11, 1846. They have one child - Iva A., born April 1, 1879. In 1878, Mr. Hunt purchased the hotel property at Fowler, which he conducted four years, disposing of the same October 1, 1883, and engaging in the stock business; he inherited 102 acres from his father's estate, all in good condition, valued at $100 per acre; he was a member of Company H, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment Ohio National Guards, and participated in the action at Berryville, being discharged at the close of the 100-day service. Mr. Hunt is a strong Republican and good citizen. Mrs. Hunt is a member of the German Reformed Church.

WILLIAM S. HUNT was born in this township November 18, 1850; he is a son of Snowden and Lydia (Updegraff) Hunt, old residents of this county. (See sketch of A. C. Hunt.) He was educated in the common schools, abandoning his studies at the age of twenty; he remained at home assisting about the farm, of which he assumed full charge for a number of years; on his mother's decease, he inherited 1021 acres of land, valued at $75 per acre, and which he has largely improved; he owns the old homestead, the residence having been erected in 1869, at a cost of $1,500. Mr. Hunt is a Republican and unmarried; he has two sisters-Elvira and Nancy Hunt, the former born March 9, 1844, the latter August 22. 1846. They received the education afforded by the district schools, and remained at home with their parents till the latter's death, at which time they each came into possession of 102 1/2 acres of land, which has since received their attention. The farms are valued at $75 and $50 per acre respectively, and tilled by renters or tenants. In 1883, they erected on the farm of the latter a handsome residence, costing $1,700, and in which they will henceforth abide. They are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and highly esteemed as ladies of keen business tact, good judgment and character.

GEORGE I. HOKE is a native of Crawford County, Ohio, born September 20, 1853; son of William and Henrietta (Smith) Hoke, natives of Germany, who came to America in 1834, settling in Crawford County, Ohio, where he established a cabinet shop, and did an extensive business; he was an expert in the art of inlaying bone, brass, ivory, etc., and brought with him from Germany an outfit of tools presented to him by his employer at the close of his apprenticeship for- the mastery of his trade; he spent many years in Strasburg, his handiwork being among some of the finest in Europe; he died in 1873, aged fifty seven years. The mother died in 1863. George Hoke, the subject of this sketch, was given a common school education, and at sixteen began work in a sash and door factory, subsequently with J. Stoll & Co., entering the carriage shops of Seider & Beidler, of Upper Sandusky, in whose employ he remained six years. In 1879, he.

916 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

formed a partnership with M. B. Myers in the manufacture of wagons, buggies, etc., at Fowler, where they are doing a flourishing business. Mr. Hoke was married, March 12,1874, to Mary Fought, daughter of Aaron Fought, and three children have been born to them-William F., Martha R. and Rolley. In politics, Mr. Hoke is a strong temperance Democrat; as a citizen he is highly esteemed.

CHARLES HORNBY was born in Lancashire, England, August 5, 1830, son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Cottam) Hornby, parents of eight chil. dren, the father a butcher by trade. He began the tailor's trade as an apprentice at the age of eleven, serving nine years, and emigrated to the United States in 1856. He came directly to Little Sandusky, having a cash capital of 40 cents, and engaged as a farm laborer for S. M. Fowler, by whom he was employed seven years. In 1863, he rented a small shop in the burg, and gradually established his now thriving merchant tailoring business. His first bill of goods was purchased at a cost of $200; he now carries a stock of $3,000 in ready-made and piece goods, notions, etc. Mr. Hornby was married, July 18, 1856, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Bradley, and four children were born to them-Alice (wife of Hiram Fowler), Della (wife of Frank Stoneburner), Ernest and Maud. Mrs. Hornby died in 1869, aged thirty-three years, and Mr. H. was married April 12, 1871, to Mary Martin, daughter of C. S. Martin. (See sketch of B. W. Martin.) This latter marriage has resulted in the birth of four children, viz., Roy, Floy, Edward and a babe unchristened. Mr. and Mrs. Hornby are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the former being Steward of the same and Superintendent of the Sunday school, both well respected throughout their community.

HENRY O. JURY is a native of this county, born in Antrim Township November 15, 1837. His parents were Abner and Priscilla (Winslow) Jury, natives of Virginia and New York respectively. They were married in this county in 1836, having come to Ohio with their parents a number of years before, settling in this county. They purchased a farm of 160 acres, and were the parents of seven children-Henry C., John R., Sarah J., Margaret, Samuel W., Olive and Cyrus (the latter deceased). The father died in 1851, aged forty years; the mother is still living, a resident of this county, in her sixty-sixth year. After the death of his father, Mr. Jury assisted in maintaining the family till his twenty-sixth year. He farmed rented land one year; bought and sold stock one year, and in 1866 removed to Missouri, where he purchased 180 acres in Henry County, where he resi ed eleven years. In 1877, he returned to this county; resided one year at Nevada, dealing in stock, and then engaged in farming on the old home. stead, where he remained till October, 1893. when he purchased his present hotel property and engaged in that business. Mr. Jury was married, August 25, 1863, to Julia A. Roseberry, daughter of John and Amanda (Garrett) Roseberry, early settlers of Crawford County, and eight children have been born to themHoward J., C. Edward, Clara A., Mary E., Olive J., Minnie G., John B. and Anna. Mr. Jury is a thorough Democrat, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Jury is a member of the Presby. terian Church, and both are highly respected as citizens.

JOHNSTON KERR, deceased, born March 11, 1810, in Pennsylvania, is a son of James Kerr, who came to Knox County, Ohio, with his family in 1812. Early in life our subject learned the blacksmith's trade, which he plied twelve years, his wife working in the shop with him, " blowing and striking." He married Miss Celinda Moore March 11, 1833, she being the

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daughter of John and Mary Moore, and by this marriage the children were Lorenzo, Caroline (wife of J. C. Lynch), Orville, Eli, Oregon and La Payette; four others are deceased. He removed to Marion County, and entered 160 acres, on which he resided twenty years, dealing extensively in stock. In 1856, he sold his possessions in Marion County, and removed to this, purchasing 400 acres, and owning 900 at the time of his death. He still engaged in stock-dealing, and at his death left an estate of $85,000 to $90,000. He died August 20,1873. His widow still resides in Little Sandusky. She was born June 14, 1813.

MICHAEL KOTTERMAN was born in Northumberland County, Penn., July 5, 1807 ; his parents were Michael and Catharine (Hettrick) Kotterman, natives of same State, and of German descent. His father spent six months in the war of 1812. Our subject attended school nine months, farmed till his twentieth year, and then learned the blacksmith's trade, which he engaged in twenty-one years. In 1848, he purchased his present home, first consisting of 80 acres, now 187, valued at $75 per acre. He was married, April 30, 1831, to Miss Sarah King, daughter of Peter and Mary (Witmore) King, natives of Germany and Pennsylvania respectively, and early settlers, of Perry County, Ohio, coming to that locality about 1810, and rearing a family of fourteen children. Mr. and Mrs. Kotterman are parents of nine children-Caroline, wife of Edward Montee; Susan S., wife of James S. Sankey; Solomon, Noah, David, and Ellen, wife of Levi Swinehart. The deceased are Mary, an infant, and Levi, killed in the battle of Bull Run, second. They began life with meager means, but have amassed a fortune of $15,000. Mr. Kotterman is a Democrat; both himself and wife members of the United Brethren Church at Little Sandusky.

SOLOMON KOTTERMAN, son of Michael and Saloma (King) Kotterman, was born in Perry County, Ohio, February 22,1839. The early part of his life was passed at home, and in work for his immediate neighbors. He was married, September 28, 1862, to Miss Mati Ida Foucht, daughter of Christian and Elizabeth (Weimer) Foucht, and six children were born to them - Leefee B., May 14, 1864; Adella C., November 9, 1866; Elizabeth E.. May 13 , 1871; Charles A., June 30, 1874; Nevin T., March 16, 1880, and H. Franklin, born January 18, 1881, died March 5, 1881. Mr. Kotterman purchased his present farm of 107 acres, paying $45 per acre. He erected his comfortable residence at a cost of $1,500 in 1880, and now values his farm at $80 per acre. Politically, Mr. Kotterman is a Democrat; he is serving his fourth year as Trustee; was two years Constable, twice elected Assessor, is a member of the Board of Agriculture, and, with his wife, of the German Reformed Church, of which he has been a Deacon for the past sixteen years.

GEORGE KRAMER, son of John and Elizabeth (Orsendorf) Kramer, is a native of Pennsylvania, born March 3, 1820, His parents were of German descent. His father was drafted (did not serve) in the war of 1812. Their children living are John, Samuel and George ; the deceased are Henry, Michael, Elizabeth, Catharine and Jacob. The father died in his seventy-eighth, the mother in her seventieth year. At seventeen, our subject began to learn the carpenter's trade, which he followed thirty years. He came to Ohio and located in Wayne County in 1842, to Ashland County in 1846, and to this county in 1852. He first purchased 80 acres, but has added to this till he now owns 155. He has cleared 120 acres and made many other improvements, erecting a comfortable residence, at a cost of $1,200, in 1869-70. Mr. Kramer was married in 1844 to Miss Anna C. Thorn, daughter of Frederick Thorn. They had eight children-John H.,

918 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

William T., George D., Samuel D., Margaret, Elizabeth, Sarah A. and Lodema. Mrs. Kramer was born February 5, 1821. In politics, Mr. Kramer is a Democrat; both himself and wife are members of the German Reformed Church, of which he was both Deacon and Elder many years.

SUMNER E. LEWIS, born in this township December 19, 1856, is a son of Stanton J. and Wealtha M. (Stanton) Lewis. (See sketch.) He assisted about his father's farm and attended the district school, closing his studies in the high school of Upper Sandusky at the age of twenty. He was married in 1877, to Miss Sylvia Boyer, daughter of Jacob and Mary A. (Miller) Boyer, her father dying when she was but one year of age. They have two children-Ora S., born January 13, 1878, and Stanton J., May 13, 1880. Mrs. Lewis was born October 13, 1860. Mr. Lewis inherited 120 acres from his father's estate, and this he has improved in various ways. He built a neat cottage in 1878, and a fine barn in 1883. He is Republican in politics, and well respected socially.

MILES S. LEWIS was born in this township January 3,1849. He is a son of Stanton J. and Wealtha M. (Stanton) Lewis, natives of Now York, and of English descent. His father was employed in a carding mill in Genesee County, N. Y., before marriage, which occurred in 1844, migrating to Ohio the same year. He settled in Marion County, where he engaged in farming and school teaching. In 1847, he entered 160 acres, where his widow now resides. Their children were Miles S. and S. Everett, living, and Minerva C., Julia C. and William S. Mr. Lewis was highly respected, serving as Clerk and Trustee of his township several years. He died January 12, 1880, aged sixty-three years ; his widow still survives, she was born April 19 , 1818. Miles Lewis, the subject of this sketch, received good education in the common branches, taught one term, and tilled the "home farm" till his father's decease, when he inherited and purchased 160 acres, which he has well stocked and improved. He was married, June 22, 1871, to Miss Kate Stoneburner, daughter of Noah and Magdalena (Hite) Stoneburner, and two children have been born to them-Clara M., born June 22, 1872, and Princess M., October 7, 1875. Mrs. Lewis was born February 14, 1855. Politically, Mr. Lewis is a Republican; himself and wife are highly esteemed in their community.

GODFRED LININGER was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, August 22, 1843, son of John and Mary (Struan) Lininger, who emigrated from Germany about 1814, locating in Upper Sandusky. The father died December 11, 1871; the mother still survives. Godfred resided with his parents for twenty-five years, farming and operating a threshing machine. His first wife, Addie, died August 1, 1879, leaving five children-Frank W., born May 23, 1869; Mary M., born April 9, 1873 '. Harry D., March 1, 1876; Carrie V., October 29, 1878; Elnora M. is deceased. Mr. Lininger was again married, February 19, 1880, to Arinda C. Eakin, born March 29, 1856, daughter of James and Mary E. (Weatherby) Eakin, three children resulting-Thomas B., born December 2, 1880; Bertha E., March 31, 1882, and Godfred, July 26, 1883. Mr. Lininger rented his father's farm one year, then purchased forty acres of the James farm, where he resided two years, and purchased his present farm of forty acres in 1874. He has made many improvements, building a fine bank barn in 1883. He is a Democrat in politics, and himself and wife both church members.

B. W. MARTIN was born in Little Sandusky, Ohio, December 25, 1848. He is a son of Caleb S. and Elizabeth (Coons) Martin, natives of Maryland and New York respectively. They came to this locality in 1835,

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the father, a shoe-maker by trade, still a resident of the above village. Their children were Burke W., Marv P., Alice L., Charles R. and Minerva, the two latter deceased. The mother is also still living. B. W., the subject of this sketch was engaged in daily and monthly labor and in clerking till twenty-one years of age, obtaining a fair education in the meantime. He then purchased the grocery stock of J. F. Myers, and has since engaged in mercantile business, first independently, then with William Montee, next with J. L. Lewis, the present firm of Martin & Whittker being established in 1874. They do a thriving business, dealing in all kinds of country produce. Mr. Martin was married, October 4, 1871, to Miss Ivy E. Hughes, daughter of Barnet and Catharine E. Hughes. They have four children - Luella M., Alice B., Charles S. and Sidney W. Besides their stock in store, the firm also owns 150 acres of land in good repair, valued at $65 per acre. In politics, Mr. Martin is a Democrat.

JOHN MAWER is a native of Lincolnshire, England, born February 2, 1833, son of Thompson and Mary (Boxter) Mawer. He obtained a limited education; began " working out " at the age of ten at 6 cents per day; began life for himself at the age of fifteen at $1 per mouth, and sailed for America in 1861. He located in Marion County, worked the first year by the month, afterward renting, and still later buying forty acres (1863) for $250. He bought and sold several different farms, purchasing his present homestead of 146 acres in 1878. Mr. Mawer was married, July 81,1863, to Agnes A. Lane, widow of James Lane, by whom she had two children-Betsey T. and L. Jane, the latter deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Mawer have three children-Francis 0., born May 7, 1864; Sherman D., August 17, 1865, and Marcellus G., October 10, 1870. Mr. Mawer is a Republican, himself and wife being members of the church.

THOMAS McCLAIN, son of David and Martha (Swan) McClain, was born in Greene County, Penn., February 29, 1816. His parents were of Scotch ancestry. his great- grandfather coming from Scotland. His grandfather, Abijah McClain, was a Revolutionary soldier and his father a soldier of the war of 1812, helping to build the fort at Upper Sandusky, and witnessing the treaty of peace with the Wyandots. His father migrated to, Ohio in 1835, and settled at Bowsherville, buying 400 acres of land with Barnet Hughes. He was the father of thirteen children-three by his first, wife, Martha Swan, and ten by his second, Rebecca West. He died in 1852; his first wife's death occurred in 1820. Thomas McClain obtained a limited education in subscription schools, and worked upon the farm of his father, coming to this county with the family. He was married, January 26, 1837, to Rosanna Bowsher, daughter of Anthony Bowsher, from whom the village. was named. She died in 1852, aged thirty two years, leaving eight children-David, Leefee, Susan and Thomas (all deceased), Martha, Anthony, Samuel, Zelinda and Ann. In 1853, Mr. McClain was married to Miss Mary Kipfer, daughter of John and Elizabeth Kipfer, three children resulting from this union-Rozilla (wife of Henry Swisher), James and Charles. He purchased his first land, 134 acres, at the Government sales, and this number he has increased to 432 acres, 248 in Mifflin Township, all well stocked and improved. In 1872, he erected a fine brick residence. In politics, Mr. McClain is Independent; be has served as Trustee of the township, and was elected Commissioner of the county three successive terms, always by large majorities.

CLAY MILLER was born in Pitt Township February 20, 1846. His parents were William and Sophia (Karr) Miller, natives of Kentucky and,

920 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

Ohio respectively, and of German and Scotch-Irish descent. His maternal great-grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier. William Miller came to Ohio in 1833, locating first in Marion County, but later leasing land of the Indians and purchasing at the Government land sales 720 acres, to which he added till at his death he owned 1,000 acres. He was an extensive stock-dealer, and served as Justice of the Peace about twenty years. His nine children were Gilford D., Rebecca, America, Jordan, Elizabeth, George, Charles, Ellen and Clay. George is deceased. The first four children were borne by Mr. Miller's first wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Gordon. The father died in 1864, aged sixty-six, the mother, February 18, 1881, aged seventy-three. Clay Miller, the subject of this sketch, was educated in the district schools, worked upon the farm and at eighteen enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment Ohio National Guard, participating in one skirmish, and retiring at the close of his "100 day " service. At his father's death he inherited 100 acres, now owning 490, one of the beat farms in the township. He makes a specialty of sheep raising, now owning 1,200 head. His residence was consumed by fire April 14,1883, and he is now erecting a fine new dwelling with all the modern improvements. Mr. Miller was married, October 27, 1870, to Miss Mary Kerr, daughter of James and Jane (Ellis) Kerr, and four children, he been born to them-William Me., born August 28, 1871; Maggie, March 30, 1873; James D., January 10, 1876; Harry C., February 24, 1883. Mr. Miller is a Republican and at present Trustee. Mrs. Miller was eight years a teacher in the public schools.

WILLIAM MOUSER is a native of Pickaway County, Ohio, born March 3, 1808. His parents, James and Polly (Potts) Mouser, were natives of Virginia and of German and Irish descent. His paternal grandfather, a soldier of the French and Indian war, was captured by the savages and condemned to be burned at the stake, but a heavy rain occurring on the night before his execution loosened the thongs by which he was bound, and he escaped to the fort, which, after falling into a pool of water and being shot at several times by the guards, who mistook him for a spy, he succeeded in entering. Mr. Mouser's maternal grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. His parents came to Ohio in an early day and reared a family of twelve children. William is the fourth son and was educated in the common schools, residing with his parents till his marriage, which occurred January 2, 1834; his marriage to Elizabeth S. Anderson was blest with six children. She died June 30, 1860, leaving three sons-Decatur, Mason and David, the three daughters having died young. He was married March 17, 1872, to Miss Henrietta Webb, born October 6, 1832, daughter of Elisha arid Mary (Faulkner) Webb. Their only offspring-George W., was born March 1, 1875. Mr. Mouser rented land about eight years, purchasing his present farm in 1847, being compelled to clear the timber from the site on which to erect his cabin. He has always been a hard worker and an enterprising citizen. He is a Democrat and has served as Trustee of his township about seven years.

DAVID D. MOUSER, son of William and Elizabeth S. (Anderson) Mouser, was born in Pitt Township July 18, 1852. He was educated in the common schools and has always resided on the old homestead. He was married, June 2, 1879, to Miss Sarah Evens, a native of Pennsylvania, and two children have blessed their union-Paul, born July 5, 1880, and Myna, born August 8, 1882. Mrs. Mouser was born August 16, 1862. Mr. Mouser is an industrious and enterprising farmer, giving most of his

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attention to the cultivation of cereals of various kinds; he has kept a minute account of his daily proceedings for the past sixteen years, now writing his fifth volume. In politics, Mr. Mouser is a Democrat. He is a member of Old-School Baptist Church at " Rocky Fork," having united with that sect in 1875.

M. BAKER MYERS, of the firm of Hoke & Myers, was born at the Indian mills near Upper Sandusky, November 2, 1855. He is a son of George and Elizabeth Myers, who came from Cumberland County, Penn., in 1848, and purchased the old mill referred to. Mr. Myers obtained a fair education in the union schools at Upper Sandusky, abandoning his studies at the age of sixteen, and entering the shops of Seider & Beidler, where he engaged in the blacksmith's trade, and worked about seven years for that firm. In 1879, he formed a partnership with G. I. Hoke, in blacksmitbing and wagon manufacturing at, Fowler, where they have built up an extensive and lucrative business, having as large a trade as any establishment of the size in the county. Mr. Myers is a strong advocate of temperance, and is an industrious and enterprising young man of good character.

CHRISTIAN NIEDERHAUSER is a native of Switzerland, born in Canton Berne, January 8, 1822; his parents, David and Elizabeth (Eausey) Niederhauser, were natives of the same country, and emigrated in 1832, settling in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, rearing a family of nine children, two living-David and Christian; John, Frederick, Samuel Elizabeth, Ann and two infants are deceased. Our subject obtained the rudiments of an education, and September 2, 1847, married Miss Elizabeth Knaus, daughter of Thomas and Susanna (Richman) Knaus born May 29, 1820; her parents were natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland respectively. Mr. N.'s grandfather served in the Revolutionary war. Mr. and Mrs. N. have but three children living-Elizabeth (wife of John Brant), John and Susan. The deceased are David, Edward, Benja. min F. and two infants. Mr. Niederhauser purchased his present farm in 1846, then 83 acres, now 123, much of which was forest land cleared by himself and wife. He erected a "bank" barn costing $700 in 1868, a brick house costing $1,000 in 1870, and a fine windmill in 1883. Mrs. N. received a stroke of paralysis in 1874, and has since been an invalid, having lost the entire use of her limbs. Mr. N, is a Democrat in politics, and both are members of the Reformed Church.

JOHN NIEDERHAUSER, son of the above, was born December 3, 1852; he made his home with his parents till his marriage to Miss Rosanna E. Sigler, January 27, 1876. Her parents are William and Rosanna (Mitchel) Sigler, natives of Pennsylvania and residents of Eden Township. Mr. and Mrs. Niederhauser are parents of four children-Neven 0., born July 6,1878; Emma B., March 20, 1881; Christian E., August 26,1883, and an infant deceased. Mrs. N. was born July 6, 1849. Since his marriage, Mr. N. has tilled his father's farm. He purchased sixty-six acres near this in 1882, and during the past five years has operated a Huber thresher. He is a Democrat, and both he and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church.

ISAAC NUTTER, son of Christopher and Elizabeth (McIntire) Nutter, was born in Harrison County, Va., May 1, 1826. His parents were natives of Virginia, and lived and died in the "Old Dominion." His father was a soldier in the war of 1812, and reared a family of fifteen children. our subject being the youngest. Not having the advantages of free schools, his education is limited. He came to Ohio in 1853, and located in this county,

922 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

October 29, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Twenty. third Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, but was engaged only at Win. chester, being wounded before having an opportunity to tire his gun. Being wounded in the arm, amputation of the member was necessary, as a result of which he receives a pension of $30 per month. Mr. Nutter was married, December 11, 1848, to Margaret E., daughter of Isaac and Edith (Sivel) Duff, natives of Virginia, and of Irish descent. Eight children have been born to this union-John A., Edith (wife of Cornelius Brewer), William, Almedia (wife of John Miller), Laura B. (wife of Samuel Smith, deceased), Margaret (wife of Samuel Miller) and Isaac N., the two latter deceased. The mother was born November 28, 1829. Mr. Nutter purchased his little farm in 1865. He is a strong Republican.

WILLIAM PARKER, son of Thomas and Eliza (Smith) Parker, was born in Lincolnshire, England, May 22, 1839. He worked several years in his native country at 8 cents to 16 cents per day, and emigrated to America in 1857; he made his home with his uncle, Mr. Plum, and did daily labor two years, when he began farming for himself; he was married December 17, 1861, to Elizabeth, daughter of Christopher Wise. They had three children, two living-William H. and John E.; Mary E. is deceased. Mrs. Parker died April 27, 1866, aged twenty-six years, and Mr. Parker was married October 8, 1868, to Miss Eliza Marsh, daughter of Mahlon Marsh. In 1870, he purchased a farm of forty acres, valued at $80 per acre, and in 1876 added twelve acres near Fowler, erecting a fine residence, costing $2,000, in 1878. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he being a Republican in politics.

WALTER R. ROWSE was born in Bucyrus, Ohio, July 29, 1852, to Quincy A. and Rebecca E. (Sweney) Rowse, natives of Ohio, and of German lineage. His grandfather Rowse was an early settler of Crawford County, helping to lay out the town of Bucyrus, serving as Justice of the Peace many years, and also as Clerk of court. The children of the family are Walter R., Lincoln R., Lucy T., Robert, Henry, Silas, William H., Edwin R. and Clarence, the four latter deceased. The mother died in 1860; he father was married three times and died February 19, 1878. His father's aunt carried a musket in the war of 1812, dressed in male attire, acting as a spy. Walter Rowse was educated in the public schools of Bucyrus, removing to the farm with his parents in 1869. He was married, January 4, 1876 , to Miss Cornelia Straw, born December 5, 1859, daughter of David and Rebecca (Williams) Straw. The children from this marriage are Quincy A., born October 1, 1876; Frank N., August 4, 1878; Arthur C., December 17, 1880; Racy M., September 18, 1882. Mrs. Rowse inherited 363 acres from her father's estate, and the same is well stocked and im. proved. Mr. and Mrs. Rowse are located in a pleasant home and highly ,esteemed as citizens.

JOHN T. SCHUG, born in Prussia September 20, 1826, is a son of Nicholas and Catharine (Rauch) Schug. Being too low in stature to become a member of the German Army, he came to America in 1849, and in 1858 came to Little Sandusky, residing with his mother-in-law two years, farming and smithing. Prior to this, he was engaged several years travel. ing and repairing all kinds of machinery, and in the spring of 1851 opened a blacksmith shop at Canal Dover, where he conducted a successful business seven years. In 1860, Mr. Schug moved to the village of Little Sandusky, and where he has built up a good trade. He was married in the autumn of 1851 to Barbara Manerer, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Manerer, na.

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tives of Switzerland, this union being followed by six children, of whom but one, Frederick J., is now living. Mrs. Schug died August 27, 1879, and Mr. S. was married, October 14, 1880, to Mrs. Sarah J. Bower, daughter of John and Susan Swartz. Her children by her first husband were Mary, wife of Charles Fichter; Susan and David H. Mr. Schug is doing a good business, having the leading shop in town, in connection with which his step-Bon, David: Bower, conducts a wagon shop. In politics, Mr. Schug is a Democrat; he is a member of the German Reformed, and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

COL. CYRUS SEARS is a native of Delhi Township, Delaware Co., N. Y., born March 10, 1832. His parents were Elkanah and Desiar (Phelps) Sears, whose history is elsewhere detailed. (See sketch of J. D. Sears). Cyrus Sears, the subject of this sketch, removed with his parents to a farm near Bucyrus, Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1836, where he resided till about 1852, attending the district schools during winters in the meantime. He afterward attended the Union Schools of Bucyrus one year; taught one term; took a course in book-keeping, and while waiting for a business opening, learned the art of telegraphy. He was employed one year by T. Stout & Co., of Upper Sandusky, as book-keeper, and in the spring of 1855 began the study of law with his brother J. D. Sears at Upper Sandusky, subsequently entering the Cincinnati Law School, where he graduated at the close of the first term, but attended a second course of lectures as a more thorough preparation for his work. After spending about one year in the employ of Messrs. Ferguson & Long, he located in Bucyrus one year and then formed a partnership with his brother, J. D. Sears, with whom he remained till 1861. Mr. Sears then removed to Cincinnati and engaged in the practice of his profession, but soon joined the Burnet Rifle Company.. of which ex- President Hayes was first Captain, and ex-Gov. Noyes and many other since distinguished men were privates. In July, 1861, Mr. Sears began recruiting the Eleventh Ohio Independent Battery, and August 12, of the same year, was mustered into it as private, serving till March 22, 1866. He was commissioned First Lieutenant of said Battery October 12, 1861, and for gallant and meritorious conduct, was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of the Eleventh Regiment Louisiana Volunteers, soon after known as the Forty ninth Regiment United States Colored Infantry. Owing to the absence or disability of the Colonel, Mr. Sears was in command of this regiment during twenty-seven of the thirty five months of its service, and as evidence of his efficiency Gen. Rosecrans indorsed, in his own hand, the order of his brigade commander, sending him home on recruiting service after the battle of Iuka, and recommended that he should be permitted to go, on account of gallant conduct. This order was also indorsed favorably by Gen. U. S. Grant, who, also, in his own hand, recommended him for promotion for gallant conduct. His promotion was also recommended and his general good conduct commended by several more of the most prominent officers in the service by letters and orders, which he now has in his possession, but which are too numerous and extended for insertion in this sketch. That portion of Gen. Rosecrans' order referring to the action of the Eleventh Ohio Battery, under Col. Sears, in the above battle is as follows: " The Eleventh Ohio Battery under Lieut. Sears was served with unequaled bravery under circumstances of danger and exposure such as rarely, perhaps never, have fallen to the lot of a single battery during the war." Col. Sears was severely wounded in this battle by a musket bal I. On May 27, 1865, he was married to Sarah

924 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

A. Harpster, daughter of David and Rachel (Hall) Harpster. (See sketch.) He took his bride to Vicksburg, Miss., from whence he was soon placed in command of the District of Yazoo City, where they spent the summer of 1865. At the close of the war, our subject returned to Upper Sandusky and resumed his legal profession, in the course of which he made the argument credited to J. D. and C. Sears, in the case of Shaffer vs. McKee in the 19th Ohio State Report, which argument received the compliment of the court (see report), and attests the ability of its author. During the summer and fall of 1867 he was engaged in reporting the proceedings of the Louisiana Senate at New Orleans, and while there, reported the celebrated Pinchback speech so extensively circulated. By rigid economy, Mr. Sears was enabled to save about $6,000 of his military wages, and this with $1,000 more, was totally lost in an attempt to raise a crop of cotton near Vicksburg immediately after the close of the war. Hoping to more speedily retrieve his broken fortune, he abandoned the legal profession and purchased a half. interest in the machine works of Upper Sandusky, where for several years a profitable business was conducted under the firm name of Stevenson & Sears. This firm being dissolved, he established himself in the mercantile business in the new village of Fowler in 1876, where he is still engaged and where he has erected one of the finest homes in the county. He has four children-Horace H., aged seventeen; Iva R., fourteen; Fanny E., eleven, and Laura J., the latter but ten months old. During his attendance at the law school, Mr. Sears boarded himself as a necessary economic measure, living so plainly as to reduce his expenses to less than $1 per week, but notwithstanding this he was one of the most athletic in the school, being one of the few chosen from about 1,500 members of the Young Men's Gymnasium, to take part in their public exhibitions, and, at his present age, is a man of remarkable physical health, strength and activity, who bids fair to reach threescore and ten years in a good stage of preservation.

DAVID SMITH (deceased), son of Daniel and Mary E. (Duddleson) Smith, was born in this county March 9, 1829. His parents were of En. glish parentage, natives of New York. He obtained a fair education, and October 13, 1851, was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Blackburn, daughter of William and Mary (Blackburn) Blackburn, natives of Westmoreland County, Penn. She was born June 19, 1829. Her parents came to this county in 1836, and purchased land in Tymochtee Township. Their ten children are all living, viz., Sarah A., Thomas, Ruth, Rebecca, Moses, John, Ellen, Isaac, Pago and Elizabeth. The father died April 14, 1 54; the mother is still living, in her eighty-fourth year, residing with her daughter Rebecca. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs Smith - Zachariah, Mary E., Augustus and William, the latter deceased. Mr, Smith inherited the farm where Mrs. Smith now resides, and made most of the improvements thereon. He died August 24, 1861 (killed by a log rolling upon him), leaving his widow with three children, which she hag caref ly reared. She has a life lease of the estate, 280 acres, her son Augustus and daughter Mary residing with her.

ZACHARIAH T. SMITH, son of David and Rebecca (Blackburn) Smith, was born in this county September 10, 1851. His father dying while his son was yet young, the latter obtained lint a limited education. He tilled the farm under the direction of his mother till he was twenty- no years of age, at which time he inherited about ninety-five acres, which he has since since cultivated, living at the old home. He makes a specialty of Poland-China hogs, Merino sheep and Plymouth Rock chickens. He

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was married, October 5, 1875, to Miss Sarah E. McLain, daughter of Abraham and Catharine A. (Berlein) McLain, and two children have been born to them-Jennette, August 11, 1876, and Paul, born November 8, 1880. Mrs. Smith was born October 30,1857. Mr. Smith is a Republican, and has served as Justice for the past six years. He is Master of the County Grange (of which Mrs Smith is also a member) and Statistician of this county for the Agricultural Department at Washington, D. C. He is an enterprising young farmer and a good citizen.

JOHN H. SMITH, born in Richland County, Ohio, November 13, 1817, is a son of John H. and Elizabeth (Kiefer) Smith, natives of Maryland, and of German descent. His parents were married in Harrison County, and moved directly to Richland about 1815, entering 160 acres. Their children were John H., Henry, Elizabeth, Solomon, Margaret, Maria, Sarah and Jacob. The family removed in 1865 to Wood County, where the father died in 1875, aged eighty-six years; the mother in 1866, aged seventy four. Mr. Smith rented land several years, coming in 1849 to this county, where he purchased his present farm in 1851. This farm contains 160 acres, all well-improved, provided with a good residence erected in 1859, at a cost of $1,000. He also owns ninety-one acres in Wood County. He was married, April 22, 1841, to Miss Sarah Wirick, daughter of Henry and Catharine (Spade) Wirick, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German ancestry. Her parents settled in Richland County in 1821. Her father died January 7, 1879, aged ninety years; he was a soldier in the war of 1812, fighting in the battle of Fort McHenry. Her mother died January 9, 1878, aged seventyseven. Mr. and Mrs. Smith bad five children-Mary E. (wife of William B. Wolsey), Franklin H., Lodemie (wife of S. P. Balliet), Samantha (wife of Samuel Suder, deceased), Almarine A. (wife of Samuel Bowman). Mrs. Smith was born March 18, 1822. In politics, Mr. Smith is a Democrat, voting first for Van Buren.

JOHN W. SNYDER, born December 17, 1837, is a native of Richland County, Ohio. His parents were Vatchel and Mary A. (Hull) Snyder, natives of Pennsylvania, and of Irish and German nativity. His great-grandfather came from Ireland, and was a soldier in the Revolution. His parents came to Ohio when his father was but a lad of ten or twelve years. They settled in Mansfield, and reared a family of five children-Nancy' Drusilla, Mary A., John W. and Rebecca M. The father died, aged seventy-five years; the mother passed away in 1869. Mr. John Snyder, our subject, remained at home with his parents till twenty-four years of age, farming and learning the carpenter's trade. His marriage to Eliza A. Snyder occurred April 24, 1862, she being a daughter of Jacob and Catharine (Willhelem) Snyder, natives of Pennsylvania. The children by this marriage are Mary E., born June 4, 1863; John W., Jr., September 20, 1864; Edward V., March 1, 1866; Jonas V., April 25, 1867; Ida M., October 20, 1868; William H., November 19, 1882. Mrs. Snyder was born February 3, 1844. After marriage, Mr. Snyder worked at his trade a few years; engaged in saw milling four years; farmed rented land afterward till purchasing his present farm in 1875. During the past six years he has paid some attention to grapes and other small fruits, doing a very profitable business. In politics, Mr. Snyder is a Democrat.

HIRAM STALTER was born in Frederick County, Md., December 6, 1808. He is a son of Henry and Rachel (Moler) Stalter, the former born at sea, the latter in Maryland. His father was a soldier of the Revolution. In 1818, his parents came to Perry County, where they spent the remainder

926 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY,

of their days. Of their fourteen children, but three are living-William, Julia A. and Hiram. The father died in 1840, aged sixty-four years; the mother in 1860, aged eighty - three years. Hiram Stalter, our subject, received but a limited education, and at sixteen learned the carpenter's trade, which he pursued many years. He rented land a few years, purchased a saw mill about 1834. and, three years later, traded the mill for 200 acres in Allen County. This farm he sold in 1845, and purchased 120 acres where he now resides, his entire farm consisting of 305 acres, valued at $65 per acre. Mr. Stalter was married, September 24, 1828, to Anna Teler, who died fifteen years later. Their children were David, John, Julia A., Malinda, Mary M.; Hiram and Lydia A. are deceased. Mr. Stalter married Louisa Dennison March 14, 1844, and she dying October 29,1851, left one child living, Ann L., and three deceased-Victoria E., Emaline and Harriet. January 1, 1852, Mr. Stalter was married to Miss Catharine Brant, daughter of Christina and Anna (Ellenberger) Brant, who emigrated from Switzerland in 1845. Three children were born of this union-Mary E., Hiram T. and William B. Their mother was born September 17, 1832. In politics, Mr. Stalter is a Democrat. Himself and wife are both members of the German Reformed Church.

NOAH STONEBURNER was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, March 2, 1823. He is a son of John and Catharine (Bretz) Stoneburner, natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania respectively, and of German and French descent. His paternal grandfather was a soldier of the Revolution. His father came to Ohio at the age of eighteen, and was married in Fairfield County in 1822. Their children were Noah, Elizabeth and Levi, all living, and Christina, Mary A., Catharine, Samuel, John, Melinda and Ellen, deceased. The father died in 1860, aged sixty years; the mother is still a resident of this township, in her eighty-first year. Noah Stoneburner remained at home till twenty-three, He was married, February 20, 1848, to Magdalene Hite, daughter of David Hite. She died in 1859, having borne three children-E. Agatha (wife of J. M. Purky), Frank E., Catharine (wife of Miles Lewis). He was married, September 12, 1862, to Mrs. Mary A. Boyer (widow of Jacob Boyer), daughter of W. B. and Mary (Burns) Miller. She has five children, one Sylvia (now the wife of S. E. Lewis), by her first husband; the others are Miller, Charley A., Mary M. and Minnie E. Mrs. S. was born December 8, 1837. Mr. S. purchased his first farm of eighty acres in Antrim Township, later adding eighty acres more, all forest land, whore he resided most of the time till 1867. He purchased his present farm of 174 acres in 1878; built his "bank" barn in 1874; erected his large frame house in 1881, and is one of the substantial citizens of the township. In politics, Mr. Stoneburner is a Democrat.

LEWIS STRAW is a native of Vermont, born May 16, 1817. He is son of David and Mary (Cady) Straw, natives of Maine and Connecticut respectively, and of Welsh descent. His parents came to Ohio in 1831, and located near Bowsherville, where his father became the owner of 195 acres of land; they had a family of nine children - Lewis, Elizabeth, Samuel C., Israel, David, Joel, Jason, Sally and Polly. The father died, aged eighty-two years; the mother, aged seventy-five. The children are all deceased but Lewis and Elizabeth. Lewis Straw remained at home till twenty-one, and was then apprenticed as a cabinet-maker and painter. He began dealing in stock very early in life, and has conducted the business on a small scale ever since. He inherited and bought the old homestead of 195 acres, to which he has added till he now owns 1,000 acres in this county

PITT TOWNSHIP - 927

and 150 acres in Indiana. He was married, in 1847, to Caroline Moody (daughter of David Moody), her death occurring three years later, leaving one child, Dudley, also deceased. In 1851, he married Rebecca Miller, daughter of William Miller, and eight children were born to them-Caroline, Eugene, Leander, Edith, Cannie and Kit. Lenora and Elmora (twins) are deceased. Mr. Straw began life with little help financially, and among the Indians; but by energy, industry and good management he has amassed a handsome fortune. He is a Republican, and has served as Trustee of his township near twenty years in succession.

JEREMIAH J. SWIHART was born in Stark County November 28, 1835. He is a son of Ezekiel and Rhoda (Miller) Swihart, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. They were married in Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio in 1835, settling near Canton, Stark County, Ohio, remaining there about two years, then moving to this county, near Carey, buying 100 acres of land, on which they resided till about 1840, when they removed near Little Sandusky. They had two children-Jeremiah J. and Peter M. The father died in 1862, aged forty-nine years; the mother is still living, a resident of this township, in her seventy-sixth year. At the age of nineteen, Mr. Swihart was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith trade, which he has since engaged in. He located in Little Sandusky in 1856, and operated a threshing-machine and huller twenty-five seasons, having the first thresher in the township about 1848. He was married, April 19, 1858, to Sophia Vroman, daughter of David and Sally Vroman, of this county, the latter still living. Their children were Randolph, David, Francis, Launa, Peter, Henry, Bessie, Hancock and Clistia. Mr. Swihart is a Democrat; has served four years as Constable and one year as Township Clerk.

PETER M. SWIHART was born near Carey, Ohio, February 20, 1840, son of Ezekiel and Rhoda (Miller) Swihart (see sketch of J. J. Swihart). He resided at the home of his parents till his marriage to Miss Winnie Fitzgerald, November 4, 1869. Her parents, Garret and Mary (Miniharr) Fitzgerald, were natives of Ireland, coming to America about 1849, and settling in Marion County, where the father died in 1855; his widow was afterward married to Dennis Hogan, and are now residents of this township. Mrs. Swihart was born June 1, 1850. By her marriage to Mr. S., she has had seven children - Cyrus E., Mettie G., Emma C., Ivie M., Nellie B., Miner R. and Millard Y., an infant. Mr. Swihart resides on the old homestead, where his parents located in 1855. The farm contains ninety two acres, and was once the camping ground of the Wyandot Indians. In politics, Mr. Swihart is a Democrat, and has served several years as Trustee of the township.

JACOB SWINEHART was born in Perry County, Ohio, August 30, 1814. He is a son of John and Christina Swinehart, natives of Virginia and of German ancestry. The latter's grandfather Kelly, a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and the former's father a soldier in the war of 1812. Jacob Swinehart remained, till he arrived at his majority, with his parents, and returned to assist his mother after the death of his father. He learned the carpenter's trade with his brother, and engaged in that business several years. He was married, August 30, 1838, to Mary A. Kelly daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Longwell) Kelly, natives of Ohio and of Irish extraction, and nine children were born to this union-Mary A. (wife of Aaron Cooperrider), Sarah (wife of J. A. Smith), Joseph P., Christina A. (wife of Peter Mustachler), Emma (wife of John Wiest), John H., Eliza

928 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

beth A., Eliza J. and Lydia E. Mrs. Swinehart was born March 1, 1816. Mr. S. located on his present farm in 1848. He owns ninety acres, all in good state of cultivation. He erected a comfortable dwelling in 1875, since which time his health has been rapidly failing. He is a Democrat; himself and wife both members of the German Reformed Church.

JOSEPH P. SWINEHART was born in this township January 13, 1852. He is a son of Jacob and Mary A. (Kelly) Swinehart, with whom he remained upon the farm till his marriage, March 6, 1879, to Miss Margaret Heininger, daughter of John and Mary (Wilt) Heininger, residents of this township also. The children born to this union are Myrtie A., January 4, 1881, and Joseph H., January 21, 1883. Mrs. Swinehart was born January 1, 1863. Since his marriage, Mr. Swinehart has been tilling his father's farm of ninety acres, with very gratifying success. He is a Democrat; him. self and wife members of the German Reformed Church, and very industrious and well respected citizens.

CHRISTIAN STURY was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, January 15, 1828. His parents were John and Susanna (Ringgenberg) Stury, who both died in Switzerland. Their children were Susanna, John, Christian and Rudolph. Christian Stury emigrated in 1849, and located in this county in 1850. He was married, August 23, 1852, to Magdalene Kipfer, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Ellenberger) Kipfer, natives of Switzerland, who came to America in 1833, locating in Holmes County till 1846, when they removed to this township. Both are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Stury have bad eight children-Henry (deceased), Susanna (wife of William Longwell), Rosanna (wife of David Barth), Frederick William (deceased), Magdalene, Emma C. and Charles. In 1864, Mr. Stury enlisted in Company C, Thirty-seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and fought in the battles at Goldsboro, Sylvania, Raleigh and in many skirmishes, receiving his discharge June 5, 1865. From 1864 to 1867, Mr. Stury rented land, purchasing his present farm at the latter date. It is well improved and in a high state of cultivation. Mr. Stury is a Democrat; both himself and wife members of the Reformed Church, of which he has been Trustee and Deacon.

HENRY TROUP is a native of Perry County, Ohio, born January 31, 1840. His parents, Samuel and Eve (Foucht) Troup, were natives of the same county, where they resided till 1840, when they removed to Sandusky County, residing there thirteen years, coming to Wyandot in 1853, and settling where our subject now resides, and where the mother died in 1861, aged about thirty-nine years. The father is now, in his sixty-eighth year, a resident of Allen County, Ohio. Their children were Henry, Samuel, Adam and Levi, living; and Emaline, Aaron, Jacob and Matilda, deceased. Henry, our subject, remained with his parents till his marriage to Drusilla Lawrence, November 20, 1859. She was a daughter of Jacob and Judah (Swinehart) Lawrence, natives of Perry County, and early settlers of this township. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Troup are Christian J., Almeda A., William W., Charles P., Samuel 0. and Iva E. Franklin E. is deceased. During the first seventeen years of married life, Mr. Troup rent. ed land, purchasing his present farm of thirty-two acres in 1876. it is a pleasant home, in good repair, valued at $80 per acre. Both himself and wife are members of the Reformed Church, of which he was formerly Deacon and now Trustee.

JAMES WHITTAKER, a native of Great Britain, was born May 29, 1831. His parents were James and Mary (Lancaster) Whittaker, the

PITT TOWNSHIP - 929

former a machinist of considerable note, who was accidentally killed in a large cotton factory in which he was engaged. His father's death occurred when our subject was but three years old. His mother gave him a practical education, and at twelve he entered the cotton factory, where he was engaged nine years. At twenty-one, be sailed for America, and subsequently learned the trade of carpenter, which he followed till 1874, when be formed a partnership with B. W. Martin, of Little Sandusky, and has done a flourishing business in the dry goods and grocery trade. Mr. Whittaker was married, March 27, 1881, to Mrs. A. A. Barth, widow of Dr. Barth, of Milwaukee, Wis., a noted physician of that place. Mr. Whittaker is a strong advocate of Prohibition principles. He is a member of the United Brethren Church, and a highly respected and useful citizen.

CHRISTOPHER WIEST was born in Ellmendingen, Baden, Germany, March 26, 1824, son of Christopher and Magdalene (Schrote) Wiest. He came with his parents in 1839, and located in Marion County till 1870, the children of the family being Christopher, Philip, John, Christian, Caroline and Barbara. Christian, Samuel and the father are deceased, the latter dying in 1875, aged seventy-five years; the mother is still living. Our subject worked by the month a number of years, chiefly engaged in stage driving. In 1850, he purchased forty acres in Marion County, where he resided twenty years. In 1870, he purchased his present home of 202 acres, paying $8,900. He owned at one time 500 acres, but has given 300 acres to his children. He was married, May 29, 1850, to Mary Wilt (Wild), daughter of Henry and Mary (Stern) Wilt (Wild), natives of Hattmatt, Alsace, Germany, residents of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Wiest have been the parents of twelve children-Louise (wife of William Burbach), Barbara (wife of Samuel Burbach), John, Samuel, Lena (wife of Frank Montee), Caroline, Christina, Christopher, Jr., Margaret and Charles. Mr. Wiest is a Democrat; he served as Trustee in Richland Township, Marion County, two terms, and in Pitt three terms. Himself and wife are members of the Reformed Church, and prominent citizens of the township.

BENJAMIN WILLIAMS was born in Ashford, Windom Co., Conn., September 17, 1819, and is the son of Raymond and Eunice (Eastman) Williams, natives of Connecticut, and of English and French parentage respectively-his father a lineal descendant of Roger Williams, of Puritan fame. His father was also a commissioned officer in the war of 1812; was married December 16, 1818; migrated to Ohio in 1838; purchased 160 acres at the land sales in this county in 1845, and in 1852 removed to Lake County, Ind., where he died December 30, 1876, aged eighty years. There were ten children of the family, six living-Benjamin, John, Esther, Oliver, Scott and George. The deceased are Lucinda, Fielder, Frank and Hiram. The mother died in 1845, aged forty-eight years. Benjamin Williams, our subject, remained with his parents till twenty-three years of age. operated the Indian Saw Mill in this county in 1840-41; went East, and was married, June 1, 1843, to Miss Elizabeth Hitchcock, daughter of John and Mary (Hosner) Hitchcock; rented land in Marion County from 1844 to 1847, purchasing his present homestead in the latter year. He now owns 245 acres, highly cultivated. He is the father of seven children, five living-Mary, Ann, Volney, John and Frank. The deceased are Frank and William. Mr. Williams has been a hard worker, having cleared 100 acres of forest land. He served as Trustee two years; as Coroner of county four terms; as Director of Agricultural Society ten years, and Vice President four years; and as School Director twenty-nine out of thirty-two years.

930 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

JOHN WOOD was born in Clark County. Ohio, December 7, 1818; his parents were Isaac and Sarah Wood, natives of New Jersey, removing to Ohio about 1815, settling in Clark County. They came to Marion County in 1821, entered 260 acres and at one time owned 1,600. They were the parents of fourteen children, three girls. The mother died in 1818; the father in 1861, aged sixty-six. John Wood resided with his father till twenty-two years of age; he then rented land three years and purchased 160 acres east of Scott Town. He has since increased his possessions to 900 acres, valued at $100 per acre. In 1877, he erected a fine brick residence at a cost of $4,000, one of the best houses in the township. Mr. Wood has always been a hard worker, often reaping, binding and, shocking forty dozen of wheat with a sickle, mowing two acres per day, with a scythe. and cradling 160 dozen of wheat, and helping to shock it in the same length of time; twenty tons of hay were pitched, and fifty shocks of corn were cut by him in two respective days. Mr. Wood is a " hopper from Hopperville," hopping in three successive hops forty-eight and one-half feet at the raising of the Union Church at Big Island in 1871. He was married, April 25, 1853, to Catharine Marsh, daughter of Mahlon and Mary A. Marsh, early settlers of Clark County, Ohio; her father was a soldier in the war of 1812, and came to Marion County in 1825. Mr. and Mrs. Wood are the parents of five children, two living Sarah and Effie; he was first a Whig and since a Republican, of the temperance persuasion; and has served as Trustee one term; both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Fowler, to the support of which he donates generously, and the church owes much to him for its present prosperity; he advocated the building of the C., H. V. & T. Railroad, and was one of the original stockholders.

REUBEN WOOD, deceased, was born in New Jersey October 15,1817; he is a son of Isaac and Sarah (Moss) Wood. (See sketch of John Wood.) He resided with his father till he reached his majority, at which time he, with his brother, Hampton, purchased 156 acres in Big Island Township, where he resided till he purchased his present home in 1845; he was married, May 26, 1841, to Miss Diantha Bay, daughter of Thomas and Mary (Lapham) Bay, who settled in Marion County in 1826. They were the parents of nine children, three living-Diantha, Amos and Abbey; the deceased were Marcy D., Ruth, Matilda, Jane, Laura and Thomas S. The father died in 1858, aged forty-five years; the mother is still residing in Marion in her eighty-third year. Mr. and Mrs. Wood are the parents of ten children. three living-Isaac, John and Reuben. The deceased are Thomas, Ruth Mary, Iva, Eudora and Cora (twins), and Rudolph D. Mr Wood died in 1861, aged forty-five, leaving an estate of $25,000; his widow still survives, and resides on the old homestead. She was born October 18, 1823.

JOHN WOOD, JR., son of Reuben and Diantha (Bay) Wood, was born September 20, 1852; be attended the common schools of his native town. ship, and dwelt under the maternal roof till 1876, when he migrated to Utah, where he remained about fourteen months for the benefit of his health; returning home, he was married, November 20, 1878, to Miss Belle Kirk, of Lucas County, Ohio. She was a daughter of James and Lovina (Wood) Kirk, and was born July 28, 1858; her father, as a blacksmith, passed entirely through the late war, in which he contracted a disease of which he died January 1, 1866. He was the father of eight children, three living-John A., Ella L. and Belle. The deceased are Alfred, Libbie, Maria, James and an infant. The mother is still a resident of this

PITT TOWNSHIP - 931

county. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have two children-Leo A., born September 3, 1879, and Ross E., February 20, 1882. Mr. Wood inherited forty-five acres from his father's estate, and has since added forty-two acres by purchase, all in good condition, valued at $75 per acre. In political sentiments, Mr. Wood is a Republican.

REUBEN S. WOOD, son of Reuben and Diantha (Bay) Wood, is a native of this township, born January 20, 1858. He obtained a good education, and remained at home till his marriage to Miss Leefee McLain, which event occurred April 8, 1879. Mrs. Wood is a daughter of Abraham and Catharine (Berlein) McLain, and was born February 28, 1862. The children born of this marriage are Grace A., born October 22, 1870, and Walter S., January 6, 1882. At the age of twenty-one, Mr. Wood received as his portion of his father's estate forty-seven acres, to which he has added by subsequent purchases till be now owns 117 acres of choice land, well improved and valued at $80 per acre. Mr. Wood is a Republican, and an industrious, enterprising young farmer.

JACOB G. WORLEY is a native of Somerset County, N. J., born November 2,1833. His parents were C. V. D. and Mary A. (Gulick) Worley, natives of New Jersey, his forefathers coming from Holland. His paternal great-grandfather was also a native of that country, and his maternal great-grandfather, Cornelius Van Dyke, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, one of Washington's body guards. He died aged ninety-one years. His grandmother's brother, Cornelius Van Dyke, Jr., was a soldier in the war of 1812. His parents came to Ohio in 1840, settling in Holmes County, removing to Wyandot in 1846, locating in Little Sandusky, where his father engaged in blacksmithing till 1865. Their children were Jane, Jacob G., Henry C., Martin N., Kate D., Sarah G., Peter (killed in the late war), Samuel A. and John S. The father died July 13, 1877, aged sixty-eight years, having been a soldier in the late war, with four of his sons. The mother is still living, a resident of Fulton County, in her seventy second year. Jacob G. Worley began teaching at the age of twenty-one, which he continued at intervals ten years, later turning his entire attention to farming. He was married, May 10, 1863, to Cemantha V. Mount, daughter of Thomas B. and Margaret (Thompson) Mount, natives of New Jersey, and of German parentage. Her parents came to this county about 1820, the father a mason by trade. He died in his ninety-first year, and his wife in the fifty seventh year of her age. Their four living children are Mary F., Thompson, Lydia D. and Mrs. Worley, the latter born September 10, 1840. The deceased are Joseph C., George W. and Elizabeth W. Their parents both died in their ninety-first year. Mr. and Mrs. Worley are parents of three children-Mary G., born August 11, 1866; Lula A., April 18, 1868; and Margaret V. D., January 2, 1870. Mr. Worley came with his grandfather to this township in 1854, with whom he resided until the death of the later, April 26, 1876, and from whom he inherited eighty-four acres of land. He purchased eighty acres in Henry County in 1873, and the same amount in this county in 1881. Himself, wife and daughter Mary are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he has been four years a Class Leader.

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