962 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

CHAPTER X.

RIDGE TOWNSHIP.

THE TOWNSHIP AS ORGANIZED-ITS PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS-NAMES OF ALL THE OWNERS OF REAL AND PERSONAL ESTATE IN 1845-EARLY SETTLERS-SCHOOLS AND CHURCHESBIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

At the organization of this county in 1845, the portion now known as Ridge Township was existing under the title of Amanda, in Hancock County. It is a fractional township containing but fifteen sections, and was annexed to this county at the above date, deriving its name from the high limestone ridge which extends across its northern part. It is bounded on the east by Crawford Township, on the south by Richland, and on the west and north by Hancock County. The southern portion of the township is comparatively low, and was once covered with a heavy growth of timberbeech, sugar, ash and walnut-much of which still remains, though the work of improvement is going on rapidly. With the present drainage, large crops of wheat are being harvested from these lands, that at one time were supposed to be adapted to corn-raising only. The northern part is of an entirely different make-up, both as to soil and surface feature. It is considerably elevated above the south half of the township, the soil consisting of a sandy loam, with clay base (white and yellow), and is especially adapted to the raising of wheat, an interest closely looked after by its in. habitants. Here the general improvements are much in advance of those of the southern part, most of the earlier settlers having located in this vicinity, George Greek, Casper Updegraff and William Hunter being a few of the exceptions.

The following were the owners of real and personal estate in Ridge Township in 1845:

OWNERS OF REAL ESTATE.

John Allman, Henry Amarine, Jacob Bowers, John Bowers, Jacob Baker, George Cross, Amos Brown, Elijah Brown, Daniel Beek, Sarah Beek, Samuel Brown, Henry Beek, Henry Bacon, William Bennett, Frede. rick Baugher, William Brown, Silas Brown, George Bucher, Jacob Barnd, Jacob Bucher, Elijah Barnd, Joshua Cole, Aaron Corbin, Charles Cross, Amos W. Crain, Henry Christy, William Carothers, R. and S. Dunbar, David Entley, John Fisher, John Fenstemaker, Benjamin Fickle, Sarah Greek, George Greek, Samuel Greek, Samuel Grindle, Jacob Grindle, Green & Reid, Shadrack Highland, William Hancock, Philip Hall, Philip Huber, John Hershberger, Philip Hall, James A. Hunter, Thomas Iliff, Jacob Jackson, Abraham Karn, Adam Kellar, Adam Killinger, Abraham Kern, William Keller, Francis Keenan, James Kelly, George Long, Christian Leitner, John Long, Aaron Moore, William McDonald, James McGill, David Myers, Frisby Nye, John Patterson, Jesse Price, Jacob Putnam Lemuel Roberts, Michael Richardson, Philip Richardson, Joseph Richard. son, Robert Reynolds, John Smith, Rebecca Saeyards, Jonathan Swihart David Spade, Thomas N. Shepard, John Starr, George Smith, Ohio,

RIDGE TOWNSHIP - 963

William Swick, Joseph Shull, Andrew W. Scott, Duncan Scott, John Scott, Nicholas Shull, George Spangler, Joseph Sherman, Charles Thomas. John Thompson, George W. Tong, Hill Tolleston, Ira Taft, James Underwood, Casper Updegraff, Abraham Worley, James Wingate, George Worley, Isaac Wohlgamuth, Michael Yeager.

OWNERS OF PERSONAL PROPERTY.

John Allman, Henry Amarine, Jacob Blinger, Solomon Baugherd, George Baugherd, Jackson Baugherd, Jacob Boucher, Henry Beck, Jacob Bowers, Henry Blosser, William Cheesebro, Abraham Carothers, William Carothers, George Cross, Thomas Cole, Nicodemus Corbin, Boyd Dunbar, ,Robert Dunbar, Daniel Findlay, John Free, John Fisher, Benjamin Fickel, Samuel Grindle, Jacob Grindle, Samuel Greek, George Greek, David Graham, John Hershberger, Arthur Hazen, Philip Hall, William Hancock, Jacob Jackson, Adam Killinger, Adam Keller, Samuel Keller, Isaac William Kern, John Long, Joseph Leitner, Thomas McHorter, John Miller (German), John Miller (English), Amos R. Moore, Gideon Nye, Frisby Nye, John Patterson, Peter Putnam, Jacob Putnam, Jacob Putnam, Jr., Michael Richardson, Elizabeth Richardson, Hyatt Roberts, Lemuel Roberts, Joseph Stahl, Daniel Spade, John Starr, Daniel Stahl, John Smith, rhomas Shepard, George Spangler, William Swick, Jacob Thomas, George W. Tong, John Thompson, Casper Updegraff, James Underwood, Isaac Wohlgamuth, Dr. Noah Wilson, a practicing physician.

TOWN OF RIDGEVILLE.

Of the twenty-four lots in this plat. Lemuel Roberts owned eighteen; Amos Moore, three; Daniel Miller, one; Jacob Plummer, one, and John Ragon, one.

TOWN OF JAMESTOWN.

Of the twenty-four lots in this plat, twelve-Nos. 1 to 12 inclusive-wore situated in Ridge Township, and twelve lots-Nos. 13 to 24 inclusive-were located in Richland Township, all of which were owned by the State in 1845.

EARLY SETTLERS.

As nearly as can be ascertained, the first white man who " blazed " his way in and out of the sylvan wilds of this township was William Homan, who located here with a wife and five children in 1832-33. He was followed soon after by Andrew Bates, with a wife and three children. In 1834, Jacob Jackson appeared upon the scene. He was born in Berke County, Penn., July 26, 1812, and was a son of Henry and Hannah ( Hough) Jackson, with whom he came to Ohio in 1822. He came to this county as above stated, and has ever since resided on the farm which he then entered. He is-still living. George Greek, one of the few struggling pioneers in .1836, is a native of Lancaster County, Penn., son of Jacob and Martha (Miller) Greek, and was born December 27, 1806. He moved with his parents to Lancaster, Ohio, in 1816, where he grew -to manhood. He subsequently spent two years in Baltimore, one year in Cincinnati, then came to this county, and settled on his present f arm. He is still an active old man, notwithstanding his many years of toil and pioneer hardships. James Hunter came to this county with his parents, William and Elizabeth Hunter, in 1836. He is a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, his parents being natives of Pennsylvania and Delaware respectively. He has resided on

964 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

his present farm since 1845, and is still hale, hearty and happy, an exemplary and jovial pioneer. Casper Updegraff was one of the early settlers, and located in the township about 1840. He was a native of Northam land County, Penn., and was regarded as one of the sturdiest settler, was a man of great physical power and endurance, and in his lifetime did much hard labor. He was born in 1801, and died in 1870. One of the old est of the venerable pioneers yet living is Benjamin Fickle, who located this township in 1841. He is a native of Monongahela, Penn., was born February 29, 1808. He was employed thirteen years on the Ohio Canal, and then moved to his present farm, entered in 1834. He is it quite feeble with age, and broken down by hard labor. Solomon Bocher, son of Frederick Bocher, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, November 1821, and settled in this township in 1844, having since resided on his present farm, which was entered by his father at a previous date. One the prominent pioneers of the township is Isaac Wohlgamuth. who was in York County, Penn., January 3, 1806. He came to Ohio with his parents in 1815, and afterward to this township in .1843. In 1846, he was elected County Commissioner, serving two terms. He has been Just e the Peace over thirty-three years. Jonas Wohlgamuth settled in the to ship in 1846. He is brother to Isaac W., and was born in the same locality in 1810. He is regarded as one of the most successful of the pioneer farmers. Joel Chesebrough, one of the wealthiest of the early settlers, in 1844. He was born in Albany County, N. Y., January 1, 1810, and resided in that State several years, but has remained in this to ship since his first settlement here. He now owns 360 acres of valuable land, all earned by hard labor. Henry Brown settled in this township in 1845. He was born in Otsego County, N. Y., September 7, 1809.

In the first settlement of the township there were, of course, no es lished roads, and this was the cause of much inconvenience to the settlers The first regular road constructed was what is called the Mount Blanch road, as designated by the Commissioners' report. Supplies were obtain from Upper Sandusky, Findlay and Sandusky City, and the thorougbfare leading to these points constituted the chief lines of regular travel till sectional roads were legally established. The only grist mill, or at lea the first one, was located on Section 14, and was operated by Isaac Wohlgamuth. The motive power was supplied by a horse, and, although it was in fact a grist mill, it was usually denominated a "horse mill," the animal doing the grinding instead of being ground. This mill was established 1848, but is now " closed for repairs." The first saw mill was erected by John Long about 1836. It was run by water, and was constructed on the old " upright " plan. It was in fact an " old-timer " for various reasons, chief of which was that it usually required about two hours to saw through an ordinary log. This, however, afforded leisure for literary improvement and it was no uncommon occurrence for the sawyer in charge to digest the contents of a whole dime novel while the " old haggler " was working its way through the log, at the rapid rate of about five strokes to the founder the min Progress and competition have rendered both the mill and its I d.r less, and they have ceased operations. At present, there are two saw mills in operation in the township, one owned by Michael Youngpeter, and other by F. Williams. The mercantile interests of Ridge Township have not been prominently brought to the front. The first store was establish by Eli Ragon, at the would-have-been village of Ridgeville, many years ago, but was never exceedingly profitable, and was at length abandoned.

RIDGE TOWNSHIP - 965

Its proprietor was born on the eastern shore of Maryland July 30, 1777, and died in Warren County, Ill., April 9, 1856. At present, there are no mercantile establishments in the township.

The first schools of the township were held in the dwellings of the early settlers, one of these being that of George Greek, the kraut barrel being a valued attendant, as some of the pupils who are yet living aver. Deby Martin has the honor of being the first instructor of the then future citizens of the township, though John Long, the hero of the " upright" saw mill, is said by some to be the original agent in teaching "the young idea how to shoot." When the log schoolhouse near the present site of Mr. Greek's residence was erected, among the first to honor it was J. N. Free, then a brilliant young collegiate, now known as the "Immortal J. N." Other early teachers were Benjamin Burnapp, Samuel Updegraff and Isabel Thompson. There are now five school districts in the township, with Substantial and comfortable buildings.

RELIGIOUS.

The Methodist Episcopal Church seems to have been the first to call its members together to consider the spiritual interest of the township. The first meetings were held in dwelling-houses and later in a log schoolhouse west of the cemetery, near which the present church building is located. The first organization was effected prior to 1834, probably by Rev. John Conaway, with the following list of members: John Long, John Smith, William Reynolds, T. N. Shepherd, Thomas Thompson, Thomas Huff, and many of their wives whose given names are not remembered. In 1835-36, a log church building was erected west of the present structure, at a cost of about $150, and this was in use about twenty-five years. In 1859-60, the present frame Bethel was built at a cost of $1,200, since which time all the pleasures 'of a neat and comf ortable place of worship have been enjoyed. So far as determined, the list of pastors who served in the parish is as follows: Revs. John Conaway, James Wilson, Samuel Allen, Biggs, Hustis, Kimber, Wilson, Wilcox, Pounds, Lee, Thatcher, Graham, Wikes, Lance, Bowers, Good, Frisby, Lindsey, Jagger, Tibbles, Ferris, Miller and Camp. There are now forty members in the society. The first Trustees were John Long, John Smith, David Smith, William Chesebrough, William Carothers, Jacob Jackson and Henry Curtz. The present Trustees are Samuel and Saxton Chesebrough, La Fayette Weaver, Saxton Shoup and Michael Spangler; Stewards-Samuel Smith and William Jackson; Class LeadersSaxton Chesebrough and Michael Spangler. Among the first revivals were those conducted by John Conaway, and these were followed by Revs. Tibbles, Miller, Graham, Lindsey and Joseph Good, all attended by greater or less success, those of Conaway and Tibbles being quite successful; these were succeeded by many others of less importance.

The Methodist Protestant Church in this township was first organized in 1866-67, by Rev. Evans, who had, for a time previous, conducted religious services in the "Greek" Schoolhouse. Here it was, in fact, that the organization was effected, there being at that time about thirty members enrolled, bearing names as follows: George, Rebecca, Simon, John, Henry and Elizabeth Greek, Henry and Hannah Hagerman, Martha Montague, N. L. Updegraff, Isabel Updegraff, Isaac and Elizabeth Wohlgamuth, Winfield and Mary Tong, Jacob Bocher, Emily Hysington, John and Catharine Ribley, Jerry Snook, William Snook and wife, Louisa Updegraff, William Davis and wife, John Starr, William Baker and wife, Robert and Louisa

966 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

Warner, Elizabeth Hines and perhaps a few others. In 1868 and 1869 the present church building was erected at a cost of $1,100, and was designated " Grace Chapel." It is a frame building 36x45 feet in dimensions and was erected by the Methodist Protestant society, with some assistance from the United Brethren organization, on the south-west quarter of Section 25. Rev. Evans labored as pastor in this appointment five years; Rev. Baker, two years; Rev. Frailkill and Rev. Ravenscraugh perhaps two years, and Rev. Overhultz about four years. The present officers are Henry Hagerman, George Greek and Isaac Wohlgamuth Trustees, but owing to dissensions and indifference on the part of members the organization has recently been abandoned. Rev. Evans conducted the first revival, which resulted in about thirty conversions and as many additions to the membership of the church, and several others followed, but were only revivals, no further additions to the membership being secured. The building is now unused and, considering the causes which have led to abandonment, almost any other title than Grace Chapel " would be appropriate.

The English Lutheran Church was organized in this township in 1838 and 1839, and a log building was erected and afterward weather-board The members of the Reformed Church assisted in the enterprise and the house was consequently divided against itself, from which state of affairs trouble soon arose, which it is unnecessary to detail here. Rev. Huffman was the first pastor in charge, and the names of the original members so far as known were as follows: John Hill, Peter Kiser, Peter Stahl, Adam Keller, Frederick Shuman, Henry Shuman, Charles Kaley, Daniel Stahl, John Buchanan and perhaps some of their wives. The ministers, other than Rev. Huffman, who have labored at this point are Rev. Wolf, Rev. Livinggood, Rev. Howard, Rev. Froukenmiller and Rev. Dustman. The present building was erected by the Reform society in 1862-63 at a cost of $1,600. It is a frame structure, 32x46 feet in size, and well furnished. The present number of members is about twenty-five.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

EBENEZER BAUGHMAN is a native of Muskingum County, 0hio and was born June 13, 1824. He is a son of Jacob and Rachel (Wymer) Baughman, natives of Pennsylvania, his father born August 23, 1794, his mother about 1796. His parents came with their parents to Muskingum County when children, and to this county in 1836. Their children were George, David, Ebenezer, Hannah, Rachel, Jacob, James, Susanna, Lucy A. and Notchy. The mother died in 1860, the father December 2, 1873. Ebenezer, the subject of this sketch, resided with his parents till his twenty eighth year. In 1845, he inherited eighty acres from his father's estate in Salem Township, where he resided till March, 1866, when he purchased his present farm of eighty acres, where he has since been engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. Baughman was married, July 4, 1850, to Mary Werner, who was born in Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Henry and Julia A. (Kirtzer) Werner. Ten children have been born to this union, namely: Cornelius, September 30, 1851; George, May 18, 1853; Elizabeth, July 16, 1855; Rachel A., November 1, 1856; Malinda J., September 20, 1858; Emanuel A., August 7, 1860; Emma M., July 8, 1862; Levi B., February 6, 1865; Phoebe, April 27, 1867; Matilda E., September 6, 1868. Two of the above are deceased, namely, Elizabeth E., who died September 14,1856,

RIDGE TOWNSHIP- 967

and Malinda J., September 27, 1861. Mr. Baughman is an old settler, and well respected. He served one term as Trustee of the township, and has held other positions of trust. He is a man of generous impulses and good character generally.

JACOB BLOOM was born in Bavaria April 7, 1831. He is a son of Philip and Mary (Cammer) Bloom, who were born in Germany in 1801 and 1811 respectively. His father was a farmer and blacksmith in Germany, and emigrated to America in 1852, settling in Tiffin, Ohio, moving later to Big Springs Township, where he died in March, and his wife in May, 1869. Their children were Philip, Charles, Caroline, Charlotte, Mary, Dora and Jacob. The latter came to America with his parents, and engaged in blacksmithing in Seneca County about twenty-two years. In 1878, he located on his present farm of 100 acres, which he values at $75 per acre. Mr. Bloom was married, October 7, 1856, to Catharine Drumm, who was born in Bavaria February 16, 1837. Her parents were Jacob and Catharine (Harbaugh) Drumm, who were both natives of and died in Germany - her father in 1844, her mother in 1837. Mr. and Mrs. Bloom have six children, namely: Albert, born February 13, 1858; William, May 31, 1859; Mary, C., November 25, 1861; Caroline, April 25, 1864; Charles, November 23, 1866; and Catharine, November 7, 1869. In politics, Mr. Bloom is a Democrat; be and his wife both being members of the Reformed Church.

JOHN GREEK, son of Samuel and Sarah (Welshhammer) Greek, was born on the homestead where he now resides November 5,1844. He was employed at home on the farm till December 28,1863, at which date he enlisted in Company A, Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. Hartsough, going direct to Chatville, where his regiment encamped one week, then joining the main army at Chattanooga and started on the Atlanta campaign. He participated in all the battles of this campaign, returning and taking part in the battle against Hood at Nashville; thence to Greenville, in camp there when Lincoln was assassinated; thence to Nashville, in camp two months; thence via Johnstonville and Indianola to Green Lake, in camp one mouth; thence via San Antonio, Richmond and Galveston to Louisville, Ky.; thence to Columbus, Ohio, where he was discharged after a service of two years, without a scratch. Returning home, Mr. Greek resumed work on the farm, and, with the exception of one year in the saw mill business at Carey, has since been engaged on the homestead farm of 200 acres, where he was born and reared. He was married to Miss Jemima A. Crawford, November 15, 1866, their children being Samuel, Eva C., Mary E., Myron M., John M., Tilden, Walter W. and Edith E. Mrs. Greek is a native of Hancock County, Ohio, and was born January 31, 1845, her parents being Samuel and Phoebe (McPherson) Crawford. In politics, Mr. Greek is a Democrat. He is a man of good character, and is well respected in his community.

GEORGE GREEK. This pioneer of Wyandot was born in Lancaster County, Penn., December 27, 1806. He is a son of Jacob and Martha (Miller) Greek, who were also natives of Pennsylvania, the former born near Philadelphia, the latter in Dauphin County. His parents moved to Lancaster, Ohio, about 1816, and resided in that vicinity till they were quite old; they subsequently came to this county and resided among their children till the dates of their respective deaths, 1877 and 1876. Their children were George, Catharine, Samuel, Jacob, Martha, Mary A. and William, all living but Catharine. George Greek was employed at home till twenty-one years of age. He then went to Baltimore with a drove of hogs

968 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

and remained there two years, after which time he returned home, worked with parents one year, and then went to Cincinnati, where he was employed one year in the butchering business. Following this, he spent three years on the canal and other work, locating on his present farm in 1836. He first entered 160 acres, to which he added till he owned 300 acres. By the aid of his sons he cleared most of his land, to which in the beginning he was compelled to out roads near two miles through the dense forest. Mr. Greek was married January 23, 1831, to Rebecca Harrison, who was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, January 5, 1811. She was a daughter of James and Hannah (Crumley) Harrison, her father having been a celebrated weaver of England; her mother a native of South Carolina. Their children were John, James, William, Amos, Henry J., Delilah, Eliza and Rebecca. Mr. and Mrs. Greek have had twelve children, namely: Martha A., born June 3, 1832; Hannah, August 20, 1833; Jonathan, July 20, 1835; Harrison, December 13, 1836; Eliza, July 31, 1838; Jacob, February 13, 1840; William, November 4,1841; George W., December 5, 1843; Delilah J., December 17, 1845; Mary C. August 22, 1847; Alexander, May 20, 1850; Sarah R., November 17, 1852. Of those Jonathan died January 16, 1843; Sarah, at the age of eighteen months; George died at Douglas Hos. pital, Washington, 1863; and Harrison died in Utah, en route to California, in the fall of 1880. Mr. Greek is a Democrat in politics, and is recognized as one of the most worthy of Wyandot's revered pioneers. His son,

WILLIAM GREEK, remained with his parents till "of age." In the spring of 1863, he went to the mining districts of Idaho, where he remained four years engaged in the mining districts. He returned in 1867, and in 1873 purchased forty acres in Hancock County, selling the same two years later and purchasing his present farm of eighty acres, where he has since resided. He was married, January 6, 1871, to Sarah Alspach, who was born in Hancock County. Ohio, August 31, 1851. She is a daughter of David and Rosilla (Ewing) Alspach, natives of Fairfield County, Ohio, the former born January 6, 1821, the latter August 20, 1829. Her parents came to Hancock County in an early day and still reside there. Their children are Rebecca J., Sarah, John W., Laura L. and Emma A., The latter deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Greek have no children. They are thrifty farmers and are highly esteemed as citizens. In politics, Mr. Greek is a Democrat.

JAMES A. HUNTER, one of the pioneers of this township, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, December 21, 1817. His parents wore William and Elizabeth (Reed) Hunter, the former born in Pennsylvania January 14, 1790; the latter in Delaware February 3, 1798. They were married in Pickaway County, but resided in Fairfield County about twenty years, mov. ing to this locality in 1834. His father died June 30, 1860; his mother May 14, 1858. Their children are Mary B., James A., Elizabeth T., Zelinda M., Lydia J., Esther A., John W., Amelia R., Mahala M., Isabel B., Martha M., Margaret A, and Thomas T. The deceased are Zelinda and Margaret. James A., the subject of this notice, resided with his parents till about eighteen, and was then employed by the month at home till his twentyeighth year. He then purchased forty acres of his present farm, and located on the same in 1846, since being engaged in clearing it of its heavy growth of timber, making other improvements and adding to its area. He now owns 173 acres, all of which has been obtained by the " sweat of the brow." Mr. Hunter was married in 1846 to Lydia Sudds, daughter of James and Mary (Rush) Sudds, the former born in October, 1801, the latter November 11, 1797.Their deaths occurred December 9, 1826, and December 21, 1844,

RIDGE TOWNSHIP - 969

respectively. Mrs. Hunter was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, September 15, 1825. She died January 28, 1849, leaving one child-Albert, born April 30, 1848. Mr. Hunter was married, July 9, 1850, to Sarah J. Updegraff, who was born in Carroll County, Ohio, February 19, 1830, and the children by this wife were Granville, born March 3, 1851; Cyrus S., March 22, 1855; William and Elizabeth, August 31, 1859; Otis, January 26, 1862; Amelia A., October 12, 1863; Martha, February 27, 1868, all deceased but Granville and Cyrus. In politics, Mr. Hunter is a Republican. He has always been a hard worker and has undergone much of the perplexities and hardships incident to pioneer life.

JACOB JACKSON, one of the worthy pioneers of this township, was born in Berks County, Penn., July 26, 1812. His parents, Henry and Hannah (Hough) Jackson, were also natives of Pennsylvania. His paternal grandfather, John Jackson, was of a family of two brothers, who were separated when young, and met while participating in the war of 1812. They were of Irish parentage; probably of Irish nativity. His parents came to Ohio about 1822, and located in Wayne County, where his father died about 1850, his mother about 1853. Six of their children are living - Samuel (by his first wife), Jacob, Catharine, William, Peter and Sarah. The deceased are Isaac, Elizabeth, Mary, Henry, Andrew, Daniel and Annie. Mr. Jackson resided with his parents till his twenty-first year. In 1834, he came to this county and entered 120 acres, on which he still resides, probably the only farmer in the township who holds the land he first entered. He now owns 235 acres, valued at $75 to $100 per acre. He was married, November 15, 1832, to Rebecca Amrine, who was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, December 23, 1811, daughter of Henry and Margaret (Lybarger) Amrine, natives of Pennsylvania; her father died in Richland County, Ohio, in 1816; her mother in this county, March 27, 1847. Mr. Jackson was a Democrat till Scott's defeat, but since a Republican; he and Mrs. Jackson are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and highly es. teemed in their community.

JOHN W. KRABILL is a native of Seneca County, Ohio, and was born November 29, 1846; he is a son of David and Jemima (Boden) Krabill, natives of Stark County, Ohio, and Cumberland County, Penn., the former born November 3, 1806, the latter December 22, 1812; his parents were married in Stark County, and one year later moved to Seneca, where they resided forty-nine years. They are now residents of Hancock County. Their children are Augustus, Jacob, Davis, Sarah, Ann E., John W., Samuel D., Harriet E., Hiram B. and Irene G. Our subject, John W., resided with his parents till his twenty-fifth year, and then purchased 102 acres in Seneca County, selling the same one year later and moving to his present farm in 1872. He first purchased eighty acres, adding fifty-one more in the winter of 1882. He is a neat farmer and has a comfortable and pleasant home. Mr. Krabill was married, January 5, 1871, to Miss Elvina Plott, who was born in Stark County, Ohio, and daughter of Christian and Matilda Plott, natives of Lebanon County, Penn. Her parents were married in Pennsylvania, moved to Stark County in 1839, and to this county in 1852. Their children were Isabel, George W. and William M. (twins), Samantha, John H., Jackson, Elvina M., Clarissa, Alice, Pierce, Napoleon B. and Sophronia. The father died October 6, 1875; the mother still a resident of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Krabill have one child-Alma A., born April 3, 1876. Mrs. Krabill was educated in the public schools of Carey and subsequently taught thirteen terms in this county. She is a member of the

970 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

German Baptist Church. Mr. Krabill is well respected as a citizen, and in politics favors Republicanism.

SAMUEL SHOUP, one of the most prominent farmers of this township, was born in Wayne County, Ohio July 10. 1826. His parents, Henry and Mary (Secrist) Shoup, were natives of Pennsylvania and Germany respectively. They located in Wayne County, Ohio, soon after their marriage, and resided there till 1848, when they moved to this county, where the father died in 1867; the mother in 1872. Their children were Mary, Eliza. both, John, Catharine and Samuel-John and Elizabeth being now deceased. Samuel, the subject of this sketch, came to this county with his parents, with whom he was associated till his twenty-first year, at which time he began business on his own responsibilities, purchasing eighty acres in this township. To his first purchase, by his success, Mr. Shoup was enabled to increase his possessions very largely, owning at one time 300 acres. He still retains 260 acres, valued at $80 to $85 per acre. He was married, August 2, 1851, to Hulda Chesebrough, native of Now York, daughter of Saxton and Mary (Young) Chesebrough, who located in this township in 1846. Her grandfather Chesebrough was a wealthy New Englander, and her grandfather Young was a Tory during the war of 1812. Her father died in this county in December, 1861; her mother died in York State in June, 1844. Their children were Mathew Y., Samuel Y., Hannah, Mercy, Hulda, Silas, William, Catharine, Sarah. George W. and Mary A., the lat. ter six all deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Shoup have but one child-Saxton C., who was born September 12, 1854. In politics, Mr. Shoup is a Democrat. He is recognized as one of the most successful and substantial farmers of the township), and is well respected as a neighbor and citizen.

SAXTON C. SHOUP, son of Samuel Shoup, was brought up on the farm, and attended the district schools of his community. He was employed at home till he attained his majority, when he began operations on his own resources, being quite successful in his undertakings. His attention is turned chiefly to farming and stock raising. In 1878, he invented an automatic gate, which he has obtained a patent upon, and which he as handled to good advantage, having realized $2,500 to $3,000 on the article since its invention. Mr. Shoup was married, April 21, 1875, to Miss Ettie Heck, a native of Hancock County, Ohio, born September 27, 1857, and daughter of John and Lydia (Sheseick) Heck, who were natives of Pennsylvania and Wayne County, Ohio, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Shoup have one child-Blanche R., born February 1, 1876. In politics, Mr. Shoup adheres to the faith of his fathers. He is one of the representative young farmers of his township, and is possessed of, good character. He and Mrs. S. are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN M. SMITH, born in Ridge Township August 20, 1849, is a son of John and Rebecca (Moor) Smith, natives of Maryland and West Virginia respectively. His parents married bore, and had six children, viz., Elizabeth A., Jerome, George, Sarah L., John M. and Josephine R. His mother died August 22, 1880; his father is still living. John M., our subject, was reared on a farm, and engaged in that occupation till 1869, when he embarked in the tin and hardware business in Mount Blanchard, where he was thus engaged till 1875, when he again returned to the farm. Mr. Smith owns seventy-eight acres, the old homestead of his wife's parents, and is one of the most successful farmers in the township. He was married, November 19, 1874, to Elizabeth A. Grindle, who was born in this township July 23, 1850. She is a daughter of Jacob and Catharine (Harbaugh)

RIDGE TOWNSHIP - 971

Grindle, who were born and reared in Pennsylvania. They settled in this county about 1832, their children being Rebecca, Margaret, Lydia, Susan, Mary, Amanda, Catharine, John J., Jacob S., William H., Daniel H., Simon P. and Elizabeth A. The father died April 15, 1877; the mother is still living in her eighty-first year, under the care of Mrs. Smith.. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Smith are Carol, August 31, 1875, died October 26.1875; Lycurgus E., born August 30, 1876; Wheden P., July 22, 1877; Merril, December 6, 1878; Owen E., December 21, 1880; and Orange J., April 3, 1883. In politics, Mr. Smith is a Republican; he is recognized as one of the progressive farmers of the county, conducting his agricultural pursuits on a scientific basis. Mrs. Smith is an artist of no ordinary skill, and has received instructions in portrait and landscape painting from one of the best artists of Cincinnati. Several excellent pieces of her work now adorn the walls of her comfortable home.

ANN E. UPDEGRAFF, daughter of Jeremiah and Phoebe (Jones) Trego, was born in Lycoming County, Penn., November 16 , 1807. Her parents were natives of Honey Brook, Chester County, Penn.; her father born July 30, 1771, her mother August 21, 1772. They were of English descent, and lived and died in Pennsylvania. They were farmers, and reared a large family of children-Nancy, born in 1790; Sarah, July 4, 1793; Hannah, October 16, 1795; Joseph, in May, 1796; Benjamin, May, 1708; Phoebe, 1801; Polly, 1803; Samuel, October 1, 1805; Ann E., November 16, 1807; Smith, February 7, 1809; Mary, February 16, 1811; Washington, 1813. The mother died in 1826, the father about 1835 or earlier, perhaps. Mrs. Updegraff resided with her parents till her marriage, in 1827, to Casper Updegraff, a native of Pennsylvania, born July 13, 1801. He was a son of Isaac and Mary (Snyder) Updegraff, and with him, after five or six years spent in Carroll County, Ohio, they came to this county and located on the farm where she now resides. Her trials and hardships endured in building up a home in this wild woodland cannot be even faintly portrayed. The howling of the wolves and the yells of the Indians were the terrors that have since given place to the ]owing herds that graze upon the disrobed fields. Mr. and Mrs. Updegraff had fourteen children, viz.: Samuel J., Sarah J., Lydia, Mary A., Ner L., Hannah, Tamzen, Samantha, Lott., Polly and Phoebe (twins), Ann E., Louisa and John M. The father died November 3, 1870. He was a man of great endurance and strength, and in his lifetime did much hard labor. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, and held in high esteem by those who knew him. Mrs. Updegraff is now in her seventy-seventh year, and in comparatively good health for one who has spent so many days in the labors of clearing the harvest field and the home. She joined the German Baptist Church in her sixtieth year, and still holds a membership.

NER L. UPDEGRAFF, son of Casper and Ann E. Updegraff, was born in Carroll County, Ohio, January 26, 1835. He resided with his parents till thirty-three years of age, and has been a resident of this township about forty years, spending the greater part of this time on the homestead where his mother now resides. He has always engaged in farming and stock. raising, and has been fairly successful. He inherited a small portion of land and has since purchased eighty acres, also some property in Carey. Mr. Updegraff was married, August 20, 1868, to Miss Isabel Plott, who died May 12, 1880. She was born in Pennsylvania October 20, 1837, her parents being Christian and Matilda (Widle) Plott, natives of Pennsylvania. In politics, Mr. Updegraff is a Democrat. He holds the offices of Trustee

972 - HISTORY OF WYANDOT COUNTY.

and Justice of the Peace, and has served in others. He was a member of the Methodist Protestant Church several years, but of late affiliates with the Christian, known better as the Campbellite Church.

JOHN M. UPDEGRAFF, youngest son of Casper and Ann E. (Trego) Updegraff, was born in the home where he now resides June 20, 1851. He was educated in the district schools, and at the age of ten began dealing somewhat for himself. At the age of fifteen he commenced farming on his own responsibility, and since that time he has been thus engaged. He ob. tainud a portion of the homestead and has since purchased other lands till he now owns 160 acres. He resides with his aged mother and does a good farming business, keeping good stock, doing more or less trading, buying, selling, etc. He is a thorough farmer, a good citizen and a Democrat in politics. He also makes a specialty of breeding Merino sheep and Almont and Hambletonian horses.

ISAAC WOHLGAMUTH, one of the notable pioneers of this township, was born in York County, Penn., January 3, 1806. He is a son of Jacob and brother of Jonas Wohlgamuth (see sketch), and has been a resident of this county since 1843; he resided with his parents in Wayne County till twenty two years of age, and then acquired The carpenter's trade, which he pursued about ten years. He then purchased thirty acres in Wayne County and engaged in farming eight years in that locality, par. chasing 160 acres in Putnam County two years later. In 1843, he sold the Putnam property and purchased 150 acres, of which his present farm of 110 acres forms a part, forty acres having been given to his son. On this farm Mr. Wohlgamuth has since resided, doing a general farming business, and in the main being very successful. He was married, October 25, 1830, to Miss Mary Putnam, who was a native of Somerset County, Penn., and daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Gross) Putnam, also natives of Pennsylvania. The children born to this marriage were: Solomon, Elizabeth, Isaac, Phoebe, Jonas, Jeremiah and James, living; and Jacob, Catharine A., David, Susanna, Sarah and Mary A., deceased. Their mother passed away May 8, 1875. Mr. Wohlgamuth has been identified with the interests of the township since its organization, and has done much to elevate it to its present standing. He is a supporter of the Democratic principles. and was twice elected to the office of County Commissioner-first in 1846-faithfully discharging his official duties. He has served as Justice of the Peace thirty-three years, and still holds that office. Mr. Wohlgamuth was a mem ber of the Methodist Protestant Church in this township till the date of its dissension and downfall, and is one of the most worthy of Wyandot's pioneers.

JONAS WOHLGAMUTH, one of the most prominent farmers of this township, was born in York County, Penn., December 13, 1810; he is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Bisel) Wohlgamuth, natives of Lancaster and York Counties, Penn., respectively; his parents were married in Pennsylvania and moved to Ohio in 1815, locating in Wayne County, where they resided for many years, his father's decease occurring there in 1847; his mother died in this county in 1849. Their children were Jacob, Isaac, Joseph, Elizabeth, Jonas and Emanuel, the deceased being Jacob, Emanuel and Joseph. Jonas, the subject of this sketch, came to this county with his mother in 1846. In August of that year, he obtained thirty acres of land as an inheritance, and this by subsequent purchases has been increased to 290-six acres being appropriated by the railroad company. Mr. Wohlgamuth has labored under great difficulties, having settled on his farm when the coun.

RIDGE TOWNSHIP - 973

try was wholly unimproved. By diligent and persevering efforts, he has succeeded in carving out from the rugged forest land a home such as few could have procured under similar circumstances, thought the toil and trials of pioneer life have left their imprint on his brow. He has accumulated all his property by hard labor, and though he has had many reverses has generally been fortunate and successful. M r. Wholgamuth was married March 22, 1833, to Susanna Aker, who was born in Pennsylvania October 8, 1811. She was a daughter of Joseph and Catharine (Walls) Aker, and to her three children were born, namely : Sara, born March 16, 1834; Keziah, January 15, 1836, and Solomon, December 23, 1841. The latter was accidentally killed by a runaway team June 22, 1876; Keziah died January 28, 1867 and Mrs. Wohlgamuth passed away December 28, 1866. Mr. Wohlgamuth is a member of the German Baptist Church, and one of its most successful farmers, and has done much for the general improvement of his community.