CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME OF THE SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND GIVEN IN 189I BY HENRY WILLIAMS SAGE Cornell University Library F 497P96 K51 History of Putnam County,, Ohio : its peo 3 1924 028 848 699 ^ olin 0"^^^ r 1/ 4^ 'J- ■ i Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://archive.org/details/cu31924028848699 HISTORY OF PUTNAM COUNTY OHIO ITS PEOPLE, INDUSTRIES AND INSTITUTIONS By GEORGE D. KINDER With Biographical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families ILLUSTRATED 1915 B. F. BOWEN & COMPANY, Inc. Indianapolis, Indiana Kc DEDICATION. To the dear, departed ones, whose busy hands changed the giant for- ests into fertile fields ; whose love of home established the hearthstones, the tender ties of which yet bind together the heartstrings of the native born; whose patriotism gave the best of their lives and substance for the defense of their country; whose graves make sacred the soil their feet so often trod. fr^ V>^ 0' uf^^ 9^,- f 1 \.'yn - Y ' 1 : 1 EDITOR'S FOREWORD In writing the history of a county, the local historian is confined to a relatively small unit and is not expected to go outside of the limits of the county only in so far as to make explanatory the relation of the county to contiguous counties or to the state at large. The historian is also handi- capped by all the tradition which is handed down through succeeding genera- tions, traditions with little or ho historical background and bordering on the romantic. While tradition is often connected with history, it does not often carry with it the substratum of fact which should characterize real historical narrative. Personal feelings and quixotic whims find expression in the tales of our forbears and are repeated so often that they are finally accepted as the truth. The purpose of the author of this history is to separate fiction from fact ; to present in a simple and succinct manner those facts which will show the place of Putnam county among its sister counties in the state; to preserve for future generations the story of the privations and hardships which con- fronted our good forefathers four score years ago. The writer, many years ago, had collected a lot of mis-information as to the early events of this part of the state, and especially to that part now comprehended within Putnam county. This supposed historical material was submitted to a pioneer of the county, a man who was in every way quali- fied to pass, on its truthfulness. To my great surprise, he informed the writer that in most instances the supposed facts were nothing more than romantic tales, interesting, but with no basis of truth. Thus the author of this history was deprived of what he had considered a large amount of valu- able historical data, but he is to be congratulated in discovering the difficulty of getting exact historical information. This history is an attempt to pre- sent the real truth about the growth of the county, and every event which would not stand the historical test has been discarded. Thus, many tales of romance are necessarily omitted ;- many supposed facts have been found to be without the semblance of truth, and hence find no place in this volume. This history seeks to give such a review of the origin and development of the county as will make it possible for our children and our children's children to appreciate the lives and labors of those who have made this county what it is today. We are proud of our towns, our broad, cultivated fields, our schools and churches, our beautiful homes. We take a pardonable pride in living in a county where peace and harmony dwell, where the people enjoy those blessings vouchsafed to them by the laws of an indulgent nation. In order that the present generation may breathe the same spirit which animated the pioneers of this county, it is necessary to go back to the time when the Indian roamed this part of the state ; when the beaver plied his trade, unmolested by the white man; when the uncut forest and undrained swamps presented more terrors than the wild inhabitants thereof. It will be neces- sary to tell of the time when France had control of this territory and of the time when England drove the French from this country. The Revolutionary War is a part of the history of Putnam county and it comes in for a share of attention; the War of 1812 is still closer allied with the history of the county and it is briefly noticed. We have tried to recite these facts so that our coming generations may become familiar with them and thereby have a clearer understanding of the sterling men and women who have preceded them. May this presentation imbue us with a greater love for our county, our state and our nation, and may we highly resoh'e that we will strive to do our share toward making Putnam county the best county in the state. With this introduction, we submit that which follows. THE EDITOR. PREFACE \\ All life and achievement is evolution; present wisdom comes from past experience, and present commercial prosperity has come only from past exer- tion and sufTering. The deeds and motives of the men who have gone before have been instrumental in shaping the destinies of later communities and state. The development of a new country was at once a task and a privi- lege. It required great courage, sacrifice and privation. Compare the pres- ent conditions of the people of Putnam county, Ohio, with what they \\ere one hundred years-ago. From a trackless wilderness and virgin land, it has come to be a center of prosperity and civilization, with millions of wealth, systems of railways, grand educational institutions, splendid indus- tries and immense agricultural and mineral productions. Can any thmk- ing person be insensible to the fascination of the study which discloses the aspirations and efforts of the early pioneers who so strongly laid the founda- tion upon which has been reared the magnificent prosperity of later days ? To perpetuate the story of these people and to trace and record the social, polit- ical and industrial progress of the community from its first inception is the function of the local historian. A sincere purpose to preserve facts and per- sonal memoirs that are deserving of perpetuation, and which unite the pres- ent to the past, is the motive for the present publication. A specially valuable and interesting department is that one devoted to the sketches of representa- tive citizens of this county whose records deserve preservation because of their worth, effort and accomplishment. The publishers desire to extend their thanks to the gentlemen who have so faithfully labored to this end. Thanks are also due to the citizens of Putnam coi-inty for the uniform kind- ness with which they have regarded this undertaking, and for their many services rendered in the gaining of necessary information. In placing the "History of Putnam County, Ohio," before the citizens, the publishers can conscientiously claim that they have carried out the plan as outlined in the prospectus. Every biographical sketch in the work has been submitted to the party interested, for correction, and therefore any error of fact, if there be any, is solely due to the person for whom the sketch was prepared. Confident that our effort to please will fully meet the ap- probation of the public, we are, Respectfully, THE PUBLISHERS. CONTENTS CHAPTER I— RELATED STATE HISTORY 33 First White Men in Northwest Territory— English and French Claims- Three Successive Sovereign Flags Over'Present Ohio Territory— Passing of the Indians— Battle of Fallen Timbers— Northwest Territory— Ohio, the First Northwest State— Early Settlements— Activities of the Traders- French and Indian War — Pontiac's Conspiracy — Northwest Territory and Quebec Act — Revolutionary Period — George Rogers Clark and His Cam- paign—First Surveys and Early Settlers— Ordinance of 1787 — First Stage of Government Under the Ordinance— Second Stage— Organization of the Northwest Territory — Representative Stage of Government — First Terri- torial Legislation — Division of 1800 — Census of 1800 — Symmes Purchase and Other Early Settlements — County Organization — Indian Wars — Formation of a New State — Date of Ohio's Admission to the Union — Capitals of North- west Territory and of Ohio — Constitutional History of Ohio — Military Rec- ord — Land Grants — Military Lands — Refugee Tract — Road Lands — Canal Grants — Zane Sections — Ministerial Lands — School Sections — Ohio Politics — Boundary Lines — Organization of Counties and Early Events. CHAPTER II— TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY 81 Surface Features of the Land — Soil Formation — Moraines — Streams of the County — Mineral Resources of the County— Tests for Oil and Gas. CHAPTER III— INDIANS IN PUTNAM COUNTY 85 Indian Mounds — Their Contents — Theories as to Their Origin — Artifacts and Relics — First Ownership of the Land and Occupancy by the Indians — The Ottawa Reservation — Deportation of the Indians — Pe-ton-i-quet — The Tauwas Indian Village — Treatment by the Government — Ancient Burial Places in Putnam County — Ft. Jennings — A Bit of Squaw Justice — A Tough Citizen — The "Light House" — Indian Sugar Camps. CHAPTER IV— EARLY SETTLERS OF PUTNAM COUNTY 98 First White Family — Settlers During the Years 1825-34 — The German-Swiss Settlement — Hardships of the Pioneers — Pioneer Honeymoons — The Men- nonites. CHAPTER V— COUNTY ORGANIZATION 103 Indian Cessions Comprising Putnam County Territory— Legislative Act Creating the County— Destruction of Early County Records— Organization of the County— Location of County Seat— First Court House and Jail— CONTENTS. Changes in County Area— Township Organization— County Officials— Clerks of Court— Auditors— Recorders— Treasurers— Sheriffs— Coroners— Surveyors —Prosecuting Attorneys— Probate Judges— County Commissioners— Repre- sentatives in Congress— Representatives in State Legislature— State Sen- ators—County Infirmary— Tax Commissioners. CHAPTER VI-TOWNSHIP SETTLEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 115 Blanchard Township— Gilboa—McCulloughville — Livingston — Greensburg Township— Jackson. Township— Jennings Township— Ft. Jennings— Rush- more— Liberty Township— West Leipsic— Monroe Township— Hartsburg— Wisterman— Monterey Township— Ottoville— Ottawa Township— Ottawa— Glandorf — Brickner — Palmer Township— Miller City— Kieferville— North Creek— Hector— Perry Township— Franconia—Dupont— Cascade— Cloverdale —Pleasant Township— Columbus Grove— Riley Township— Pandora— Web- ster— Sugar Creek Township— Vaughnsville— Rimer— Jones City— Union Township — Kalida — Van Buren Township — Leipsic— Beknore-Pitzer- Ward. CHAPTER VII— HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION 168 Early Navigation of the Streams— Marketing Facilities— Completion of the Canal— Advent of the Railroads— Railroad Mileage and Valuation— Tele- phone Statistics. CHAPTER VIII— CHURCHES OF PUTNAM COUNTY 172 Methodist Episcopal Churches— Presbyterian Churches— Congregational Church— United Brethren Churches— Christian Churches— Mt. Zion Church —Lutheran Church— Church of the Brethren (Dunkard)— Township Churches — Catholic Churches. CHAPTER IX— NEWSPAPERS OF PUTNAM COUNTY 196 But Few Daily Papers Before the War— Difficulties of Early Publishers and the Character of the Papers— Brief Mention of the Various Newspapers Which Have Existed in the County. CHAPTER X— BANKS AND BANKING __ 204 Banks at Ottawa, Continental, Belmore, Leipsic, Columbus Grove, Kalida, Pandora, Ottoville— Building and Loan and Insurance Companies.' CHAPTER XI-SECRET SOCIETIES, FRATERNITIES AND CLUBS 212 Free and Accepted Masons, and Its Auxiliary Organizations— Independent Order of Odd Fellows— Knights of the Maccabees— National Union- Knights of Columbus— Catholic Knights of Ohio— The Research Club- Kappa Phi Delta— Putnam Club— Catholic Ladies of Columbia— The Cen- tennial Club— The Study Club— Federation of Clubs— Woman's Christian Temperance Union. CHAPTER XII— THE MEDICAL PROFESSION 224 Efficiency of the Early Physicians— Their Difficulties and Hardships— List of the Doctors Who Have and Are Now Practicing in Putnam County. CONTENTS. CHAPTER XIII— COURTS AND LAWYERS 226 First Term of Court in Putnam County— First Appointees— Tavern Licenses —First Grand Jury— First Case in County Court— Attorneys of the County —Associates Judges— Common Pleas Judges— Circuit Court Judges. CHAPTER XIV— PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF PUTNAM COUNTY 231 A Marked Change in the System of Education in Putnam County— The Old and Present Systems— Directory of Present Supervision Districts— Colum- bus Grove Schools— Vaughnsville High School— Crawfis College— Leipsic High School— Pandora High School— Ottawa High School— County Spelling Contest. CHAPTER XV— MILITARY RECORD OF PUTNAM COUNTY 246 Civil-war Enlistments from the Various Townships— Putnam County Offi- cers in the Civil War— Gen. Americus V. Rice— Thrifty Soldiers— Soldier Relief— A Civil-war Election— Voters of 1847— Militia Days— Ohio National Guard— Grand Army of the Republic— Soldiers' Monument— Soldiers of the Revolution and of the War of 1812. CHAPTER XVI— SIDELIGHTS ON PUTNAM COUNTY HISTORY 262 Business and Professional Interests of Putnam County in 1870— The Story of Johnny Appleseed— Early Taverns— An Early Distillery — County Ex- penses in 1849— Kalida Market in 1847— Cholera at Gilboa in 1852- Early Liquor Violations— An Early Postmaster of Gilboa— A Kalida Rat-trap— The Wolf-scalp Industry— The First School on the Reservation— Selecting Postmasters in 1845- Iron Bridges of Putnam County— Early Debating Societies— A Wonderful Rail Fence— Colored People in Putnam County— The First Deed Recorded in the County— Saloons in Putnam County— The Greatest Flood of Ottawa— Political History of Putnam County— Dewey Celebration — Population Statistics — Highway Statistics. BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 281 HISTORICAL INDEX A Adams County 61 Admission of Ohio as a State 46 Allen County 61 Alumni of Ottawa High School 241 Ancient Burial Places 91 Appleseed, Johnny 265 Area of County, Changes in 105 Armory . 257 Artifacts and Relics, Indian 87 Ashland County 61 Ashtabula County 61 Associate Judges 229 Athens County 61 Attorneys 228, 230 Auditors, County 107 Auglaize County 61 Avis 119 B Banks and Banking 204 Battle of Fallen Timbers 34, 44 Belmont County , 62 Belmore — ■ Additions to 166 Banks 205, 207 Business Interests, 1870 262 Education 233 Officers, Fir^t 166 Officers, Present 167 Physicians 225 Platting of 166 Population 278 Blanchard 183, 213 Blanchard River 82 Blanchard Township — Area 106, 115 Churches 185 Education in 233, 236 Election, First 115 Blanchard Township — First Events 116 Officers, First 115 Officers, Present 116 Organization of 106, 115 Population 277 Records, Early, Destroyed 115 Settlers, First 115 Soldiers 247 Boundary Lines, State SO Brickner 142, 193 Bridges of Putnam County 271 Brown County 62 Building and Loan Association 210 Burial Places, Ancient 91 Business Interests, 1870 262 Butler County 62 c Canal, Completion of 168 Canal Grants 56 Capitals of Northwest Territory and of Ohio 47 Carroll County 62 Cascade 148, 180 Catholic Churches 186 Catholic Knights of Ohio 216 Catholic Ladies of Columbia 218 Census of 1800 41 Centennial Club 219 Center Point Agricultural Society__ 159 Champaign County 62 Cholera Epidemic 268 Christian Churches 180 Church of the Brethren 183 Churches 172 Churches in the Townships 184 Circuit Court Judges 229 Civil War Election 265 Civil War Record 246 HISTORICAL INDEX. Claims to Territory 33 Clark County 62 Clerks of Court 107 Clermont County 63 Clinton County ; .- — 63 Cloverdale — ■ Churches 174, 194 Education 233 Incorporation of 148 Industries, Early 148 Officers, First 148 Officers, Present 149 Physicians 225 Platting of 148 Population 278 Settlers, First 148 Clubs 217 Colored People 272 Columbiana County 63 Columbus Grove — Attorneys 229, 230 Banks —206, 209, 211 Buildings, First i ISO Business Directory ISl Business Interests, 1870 262 Churches 172, 177, 179 Education 234 Industries, First ISO Lodges 213, 21S Newspapers . 201 Officers, First ISO Officers, Present ISl Physicians 22S Population 278 Settlers, Early ISl Shipments 1S2 Soldiers' Monument 261 Survey of ISO Commissioners, County 110 Common Pleas Judges 229 Company M, National Guard 1 257 Congregational Church 178 Congress Lands SS Congressmen 111 Connecticut Reserve S3 Constitutional Conventions 48 Constitutional History 48 Continental — Additions to 126 Attorneys 229, 230 Continental — Banks 205 Business Enterprise 126 Churches 174, 179, 183 -Education , 234 Improvements 126 Incorporation of 126 Industries 126 Naming of 126 Newspaper 202 Officers, First l-_:_— 126 Officers, Present 127 Physicians 225 Platted 126 Population 278 Coroners 109 Coshocton County 63 Counties Organized Before 1799 40 County Commissioners 110 County Expenses, 1849 267 County Infirmary 113 County Officials 106 County Organizations 43 County Organization 103 County Seat Located 104 County Seat Removal 104 County Spelling Contest 245 County, Early Sessions of 226 Court, First Case in 227 Court House History 104, 136, 161 Courts 226 Crawfis College 236 Crawford County ' 64 Creation of Putnam County 103 Croswell 120 Cuba 120 Cuyahoga County 63 D Darke County 64 Date of Ohio's Admission 46 Debating Societies, Early 272 Deed, First Recorded in County 273 Defiance Co^jnty 64 Delaware County 64 Deportation of the Indians 94 Destruction of County Records 103 Dewey Celebration 277 Distillery, Early 267 HISTORICAL INDEX. Division of 1800— I-- 41 Dohrman's Grant H—-:.— ; — l]-! — SS Dorning-ton"' __^_— _ — --- — 120 Dunkard Church ■__■—.__-— —I 183 Duporrr— Ch-ufches- — 175 Decline i— — — — — 147 Rdocation ___—"- 233 Growth Of _l 147 Industries — "-: _r— 147 Lodges - — __j-_— 1— :-— 214 Name -- 1- -■— 147 Officers, Present 148 Physicians " _-— — 225 Population — :— 278 Early Debating Societies 272 Early Settlers of Putnam County— 98 Early Taverns 226, 266 Educational History 231 Elm -Center 124 English Claims 34 Enlistments from Putnam County— 246 Erie County — — — . ^ 64 Fairfield County ^ 65 Fallen Timbers, Battle of 34, 44 Fayette County 6S Federation of Clubs 223 First Northwest Territorial Legis- lature — 40 First Territorial Surveys 37 Flood, Great, at Ottawa 274 Ft. Jennings — Business' Interests, 1870 263 Churches 191 Education 233 Improvements 123 ■ Incorporation 122 Officers 123 Physicians 225 Platting . - 122 Population 277 Settlement — — 122 Ft. Jennings Stockade 94 Fourth of July Celebration 277 Fraticonia T— — 147, 225 Franklin County 65 Fraternal History . 212 Free and Accepted Masons 212 French arid Indian War-l 35 French Grant — '_' 52 Frendi ' Settlement _1I— 1111 34 French Traders _^ — — _ _— — 33 F^utton County . — .—^ 65 G Gallia County — '. ' 66 Gas and Oil; Tests for— 84 GeaUga' 'County 1_1 66 German-Swiss Settlement 99 Gilboa — Business Interests, 1870 263 Business Interests, Present 118 -Cholera Epidemic 268, 117 Churches 173 Education _- 233 Incorporation 117 Laid out 117 Lodges 214 Officers, Present - — ^-1 118 Physicians , 225 Population 277 Postmaster, An Early 268 Taverns, Early 266 Glandorf — Building and Loan Association 210 Business Interests 142 Business Interests, 1870 263 Churches 192 Education 233 Founder of 141 Incorporation 142 Industries, Early 141 Insurance Association 208 Laying Out of 141 Officers, First 142 Officers, Present 142 Physicians 225 Pioneers of 141 Population 278 Survey of 142 Governors of Ohio 58 Grand Army of the Republic 258 Grand Jury, First 227 HISTORICAL INDEX. Grants, Land 52 Greene County 66 Greensburg Township — Area 106, 119 Churches 185 Education 233 Farms 119 Officers 120 Organization of 106 Population 27/ Settlement 119 Soil 119 Soldiers 24/ Greenville, Treaty of 45 Guernsey County 66 H Hamilton County 66 Hancock County 67 Hardin County 67 Hardships of Pioneers 100 Harmar, Gen. Joseph 44 Harrison County 67 Hartsburg 125 Hector 145. Henry County 67 Highland County 68 Highway Statistics 278 Hog Creek 82 Holmes County 68 Huntstown 121 Huron County 68 Independent Order of Odd Fellows- 213 Indian Burying Grounds 91 Indian Mounds 85 Indian Occupancy 88 Indian Relics 87 Indian Treaties 88 Indian Wars 44 Indians in Putnam County 85 Infirmary, County 113 Insurance Associations 208 J Jackson County 68 Jackson Township — Area 106, 120 Churches 1.86 Education 233 Location 120 Officers, Present 120 Organization of 106 Population 277 Records Destroyed 120 Settlement 120 Jail History 104, 136 Jefferson County 68 Jennings Township — Area 106, 121 Churches 185 Education 233 Distillery 267 Officials, Present 122 Organization of 106, 121 Population 277 Settlement 121 Soldiers 248 Taverns, Early 227 Johnny Appleseed 265 Jones City 158 Judges, Associate 229 Judges of Circuit Court 229 Judges of Common Pleas Court 229 Judges of Probate Court 110 Jury, Grand, the First 227 K Kalida— Attorneys 228, 230 Banks 206 Business Interests 161 Business Interests, 1870 263 Churches 175, 189 County Seat 160 Court House 161 Court, Sessions of 227 Education 233 Fires 161 First Events 160 Incorporation of 161 Location 104 Market in 1847 267 Newspapers 198 Officers, Present 161 HISTORICAL INDEX. Kalida — Physicians 224 Population 278 Postoffice in 1845 271 Survey of 160 Taverns, Early 226 Kappa Phi Delta 217 Kieferville 144 Knights of Columbus 216 Knights of the Maccabees 216 Knox County 69 L Lake County 71 Land Grants of Ohio 52 Lavirrence County 71 Lawyers 228, 230 Legislative Act Creating Putnam County 103 Legislature, First Northwest Terri- torial 40 Leipsic — Attorneys 230 Banks 206 Buckeye Stave Co. 165 Business Interests, 1870 263 Churches 173, 176, 188 Education 234, 237 Growth of 163 Incorporation 163 Industries, Early _. 164 Lodges 214 Newspapers 201 Officers, Present 164 Physicians 225 Platting of 163 Population 278 Settlers, Early 163 Temco Motor Co 164 Liberty Township — Area 106 Churches 184 Drainage 123 Education 233 Election, First 123 Officers, Present 124 Organization of 106, 123 Population 277 Settlement 123 Liberty Township — Soldiers ■ 248 Swamps 123 Licking County 70 "Light House," the 96 Limestone Deposits 83 Liquor Violations 268 Livingston 118 Location of County Seat 104 Lodges 212 Logan County 70 Lorain County 70 Losantville 43 Lucas County 69 Lutheran Church 183 Mc McCulloughville 118 M Madison County 71 Mahoning County 72 Marice City 126 Marion County 72 Market Prices, 1847 — Marketing Facilities, Early 168 Masonic Order 212 Maumee Road Lands 55 Medary 124 Medical Profession 224 Medina County 72 Meigs County 72 Mennonites ^^ 102 Mercer County 72 Methodist Episcopal Churches 172 Miami County 72 Mileage of Railroads 170 Military Officers from Putnam County 252 Military Record of County 246 Military Record, State 50 Militia Days 256 Miller City- Churches 190 Education 233 Incorporation of 144 Industries 144 HISTORICAL INDEX. ; Miller City — Officers, Present 144 Physicians 225 Platting of -1 143 Population 11 278 Soil Fertility -__l-_. 143 Mineral Resources 83 Ministerial Lands 56 Missionaries, Early 33 Monroe County , 73 Monroe Township — • Area ' _'_'._-l._l.. 106 Churches .__„. 182 Education ____._" 233 Election, First 1_— 125 Officers, Present 125 Organization of 106 Population . 277 Settlement 125 Soldiers -__— __— ^ 249 Monterey Township — Area 106 Churches 181, 186 Education- , - 233 Election, .First , 127 Officers^ -First ^_-_ 127 Officers, Present 128 Organization of 106 Population 278 Settlement . 127 Soldiers 249 Montgomery County 73 Montgomeryville 166 Moraines . 81 Moravian- Grant 55 Morgan County ^ 73 Morrow County 73 Mt. Zion Church .___ 182 Muntana ^ 121 Muskingum County 73 N National Guard 257 National Union 216 New Cleveland 142, 193 Newspapers of Putnam County 196 Noble County 74 North Creek 144, 194 Northwest Territorial Legislature, First -—__._—____ 40 Northwest Territory 33, 36 O - Odd Fellows __--.i;_____: 213 Ohio Admitted -as a State 46 Ohio Land • Company Purchase 52 Ohio National Guard 257 Ohio, Natural Features 60 Ohio- Politics .__ 57 Ohio, Situation of 60 Ohio, Streams and Lakes 60 Oil and Gas Tests 84 Ordinance '6f"1787__ _. .__ 37 Organization o'f bounties 61 Organrzation of the 'C6unty_ 103, 104 Origin of Indian Mounds_! 86 Ottawa — ■ Armory ___: , 257 Attorneys __ _ 228, 230 Bahks ___ — ___:____ 204, 207 Beet Sugar Factory 138 Business Interests, 1870 264 Business Interests, Present- 137 Churches _ 135, 175,, 186 Clubs 217 Court House 136 Dewey Celebration 277 Education 135, 234, 240 Finances, City 140 Fire Department 136 First Settlers 1_ 133 Floods ' 274 Fourth of July, 1876 277 Growth, Early 1 134 High School Alumni___. 241 Indian Occupancy 133 Industries 137 Lodges _ 212, 216, 258 Merchants, First I34 National Guard 257 Newspapers 200 Officers, Present 140 Officers, Salaries of 141 Physicians 224 Population 278 Postmasters 140 Postoffice 134 HISTORICAL INDEX. Ottawa- Public Buildings 136 Railroad, Coming of — 1 134 Settlement 133 Sugar- Factory 138 Taverns, Early 134 Waterworks 136 Ottawa County : 74 Ottawa Reservation 88, 93 Ottawa River 82 Ottawa Township-^ Area 106 Churches 185 Education ! 132, 233 Officers," Eirst 131 Officers," Present ". 132 Organization of -11 106, 131 Population 278 Settlement — 1 131 Soldiers 249 Taverns 132 Ottoville— Bra:nks '-_! 207 Busmess Directory 130 Business Interests, 1870 264 Churches '. 187 Education 233 Fire 'Department 129 Light and Power Company 129 Mutiaal Aid Association 211 Newspaper . 202 Officers, First - 128 O'fficers, Present 129 Physicians 22S Platted 128 PopulS-tion 278 Surveys 128 Palmer Township — ■ Area — — 106 Creation of .- 143 Education 233 Insurance Company 208 Natural Features 143 Officers, First : 143 Officers, Present 1 143 'Organization "of Z 106 POpulafiori -_1__— _• 278 Soldiers -__— ..11. - 2S0 Pandara — Additions to 154 Banks _- 206 Education 238 I-ndustries i 154 Mills- — 153 Newspapers 201 Officers,- Present 154 Overall Factory . : 155 Physicians - 225 Population 278 Railroad, Advent of 154 Tavern, Early 154 Paulding County 74 Pendleton 264 Perry County 74 Perry Township — Area. .— , 106 Churches 185 Education ' 233 First Settlers 145 Improvements 147 Name 145 Nursery, Pioneer 146 Officers,' First 146 Officers, Present 146 Organization of 106 Population 278 Settlers, First 145 Soldiers 252 Pe-ton-i-quet 89 Physicians 224 Pickaway County 74 Pike County 75 Pioneer Honeymoons 101 Pioneers, Hardships of 100 Pleasant Township — ■ ' Area — 106 Churches ISO, 186 Education 233 First Events' 149 Industries, Early 149 Officers, Present 150 Organization of '. 106, 149 Population 278 Settlers, First 149 Soldiers 250 Voters, First ' 149 Political History 275 Politics in' Ohio '. 57 HISTORICAL INDEX. Pontiac's Conspiracy 36 Population in 1800 42 Portage County 74 Postmasters, Selecting in 1845 271 Population Statistics 277 Preble County 75 Prentiss 125 Presbyterian Churches 175 Press, the 196 Probate Judges 110 Professional Interests, 1870 262 Prosecuting Attorneys 109 Public Schools of Putnam County— 231 Putnam Club 218 Putnam County, Changes in Area— 105 Q Quebec Act 36 R Rail Fence, A Wonderful 272 Railroads, Advent of 169 Railroads, Mileage and Valuation 170 Rat-trap Invention 269 Recorders, County 107 Records, County, Burning of 103 Refugee Tract 54 Related State History 33 Religious Denominations 172 Removal of County Seat 104 Representative Government 39 Representatives 112 Research Club 217 Revolutionary Period 36 Revolutionary Soldiers 261 Rice, Gen. Americus V 253 Richland County 76 Riley Township — Area 106, 152 Churches 185 Education 233 Election, First 153 First Events 153 German Immigration 152 • Officers, Present ;_ .__ , ^^,153 Organization of 106, 152 Population 278 Settlers, First 152 Soldiers 252 Rimer 158 Rivers of Putnam County 82 Roads, Early 168 Roads of Today 279 Ross County 75 Royal and Select Masters 213 Royal Arch Masons 212 Rushmore 123, 225, 233 St. Clair, Gen. Arthur 44, 101 Saloons of Putnam County 274 Salt Sections 56 Sandusky County 76 School Districts 233 School, First of the Reservation 271 School Sections 57 School Superintendents 233 Schools 231 Scioto County 17 Secret Societies 212 Senators, State 112 Seneca County 11 Settlement by French 34 Shelby County 76 Sheriffs 108 Sidelights on Putnam History 262 Soil of the County 81 Soldier Relief 255 Soldiers' Monument 261 Spelling Contest, County 245 Squaw Justice 95 Stark County 76 State Boundary Lines 59 State History, Related 33 State Military Record 50 State Politics 57 State Senators 112 Statistics, Population 277 Streams of Putnam County 82 Study Club 222 Sugar Camps 97 Sugar Creek Township — _ Area 106 CKurch'es '-■——_— _—" 184 Education 233 Officers, First 157 Officers, Present 157 HISTORICAL INDEX. Sugar Creek Township — Organization of 106 Population 278 Settlement 157 Survey of 156 Summit County ^(s Superintendents, School 233 Supervision Districts 233 Surveyors, County 109 Surveys, First Territorial 37 Swiss Settlement 99 Symmes Purchase S3 Tauwas Indian Village 90 Tavern Licenses 226, 266 Tawa Village 93 Tax Commissioners 114 Telegraph Lines 170 Telephone Lines 170 Territory Northwest of the Ohio — 34 Topography 81 Township Churches 184 Township Organization 105 Township Population 277 Transportation, Early 168 Treasurers, County 108 Treaties with Indians 88 Treaty of Greenville 45 Trumbull County ^^ Turnpike Lands 56 Tuscarawas County 78 U Union County 78 Union Township — Area 106 Education 234 Finances, Early 160 Officers, First 159 Organization of 106, 159 Population 278 School Districts 160 Settlers, First 159 United Brethren Churches 179 United States Military Lands 54 V Valuation of Railroads 170 Van Buren Township — • Area 106 Churches 185 Education 233 Officers, First 162 Organization of 106 Population 278 Settlers, First 162 Soldiers 252 Swamps 162 Vaughnsville — Business Interests, 1870 264 Churches 178, 180 Education 235 Physicians 225 Platting of 158 Present Conditions 158 Van Wert County 78 Village Population 277 Vinton County 78 Virginia Military District 54 Volunteer Soldiers from the Vari- ous Townships 247 Voters of 1847 256 W War of 1812, Soldiers of 261 Ward 167 Warren County _^ 79 Washington County ^ 78 Wayne, Gen. Anthony 44 Wayne County 79 Webster 156 West Leipsic — • Business Interests, First 124 Incorporation 124 Officials, First 124 Physicians 225 Platted 124 Population 124, 277 Settlement 124 HISTORICAL INDEX. Williams County __^ ____ 79 Wood County ^ 79 Wisterman ^___ 126, 179 Wyandot County ^ 79 Wolf Scalp Industry 269 Woman's Christian Temperance Z Union . 223 Zane Sections 56 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX A Agaer, James M 1054 .\lkire, Charles F. 531 Allen, Daniel M. . 1241 Altenburger, George E 1163 Amstutz, Peter A. 528 Annesser, Francis X. 951 Askins, Abraham P. IHO B Bach, George H. 368 Bachtall, Augustus . 809 Bailey, John P. 1023 Baker, Squire J. 1423 Baker, Thomas J. 546 Balbaugh, • Frank D. 1151 Ball, George 1196 Ball, John 1058 Ball, Martin 1141 Ball, William 1193 Barber, Alpha H., D. D. S 916 Barnes, Isaac H. 1454 Basinger, Mrs. Leah 909 Basinger, Levi _ 398 Basinger, William 1248 Beard, Charles W. 804 Beard, John 611 Beckman, Henry 1067 Begg, William H., M. D 394 Bell, William A. 472 Benning, Henry J. 1282 Bensman, Frank G. 674 Best, Amos W. 418 Best, George L 962 Beutler, Christian 972 Beutler, William A. 959 Bixel, Peter D., M. D. 313 Blauvelt, Charles R. 504 Blu*, Lawrence V. 1316 Boecker, Joseph 1198 Bogart, Isaac E. 1200 Bogart, John '. 1342 Borgelt, Herman H. — — 1456 Borgelt, Joseph, Jr. __ 1014 Borgelt, William 557 Borman, Charles C. 837 Bracy, Elmer E. 450 Bracy, Isaac 498 Brant, John Jacob 1224 Bridenbaugh, John D. .- 919 Brinkman, Harry E. 605 Brinkman, Mathias 1419 Bruskotter, Barney 1411 Buckland, Elah Harry 999 Buescher, John D. 1296 Burgess, Bostwick F. 1099 Burill, Ernest 1167 Burill, Henry _— 992 Burkhart, Albert 1460 Burkhart, Clarence A. 813 Burkhart, Emmett L. 454 Burkhart, Henry 1145 Burkholder, George A. 1464 Burns, Ewing V., D. D. S 921 C Calvelage, Henry 1318 Carder, John M. 1120 Carr, David H. 470 Carver, John- F. 468 Cass, Charles C. 1020 Casteel, Ebenezer 568 Clark, Elliott 886 Clark Raymond G. -. 1015 Coit, Guy R. -^ 526 Cole, William T 292 Conine, Norman _ 494 Conrad, John G, 974 Core, David 1355 Core, George W. 488 Corfman, Joseph- 1005 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX. Cottingham, John W. 456 Crawford, John M 957 Crawford, Wilson M. 407 Critchet, Frank E. 358 Curtis, William N. 554 D Dangler, Alex 664 Dangler, Colupibus E. 1026 Darling, Jonathan J. 506 Davis, Christian 524 Davis, Pierce 1319 Day, Homer R. 324 Deck, Edgar 1461 Deffenbaugh, John E. 1389 DeFord, Prof. S. F. 408 Deters, Theodore 341 DeVore, George C. 768 Dibble, Sidney C. 1032 Dibble, William E. 400 Dibble, William W 306 Dickey, Samuel M. 633 Diemer, John 1287 Diller, Amos C. 421 Dobmeyer, Michael F. 1106 Doepker, Frank H. 1398 Doepker, Frank W. 703 Donaldson, John 552 Doty, Charles W. 1370 Downing, Robert W. 725 Draper, Charles W. 937 Draper, Warren C. 966 Drerup, John H. 1184 Droll, Frank F. 1036 Dunlap, Lester 1314 E Eck, Benjamin F. 968 Edelbrock, Benjamin 719 Edelbrock, Frank — 764 Edelbrock, John B. 708 Edelbrock, William A. 644 Edelbrock, William H. 662 Edwards, John 281 Edwards, John W. 667 Edwards, Joseph B. 792 Edwards, Joseph H. 1448 Edwards, William W. 512 EUerbrock, Fred H. 319 Ellerbrock, John F. 1293 EUerbrock, John W. 338 Emans, Daniel 1356 Erhart, Frank 729 Ernst, Henry 1174 Ernst, John W. 622 Etter, William T. 1204 Evans, David S. 766 F Fairchild, William H. ._1003 Fawcett, Clinton W. 982 Feltman, Barney 433 Ferrall, Charles A. 389 Fischback, John 855 Fisher, John B. 482 Fletcher, Clyde M £90 Fogle, Charles W., D. V. S 565 Fraker, Jacob J. 1431 Frantz, William P. 492 Frantz, William W. 864 French, William M 1440 Fuerst, Mathias J. 396 G Gebhardt, Martin 1028 Geiger, Llewellyn 336 George, John F., M. D. 1309 George, W. M. 299 Gerber, John 868 Gerdeman, Andrew 1275 Gerdeman, Barney 720 Gerdeman, Henry, Jr. 683 Gerdeman, J. Fred 1280 Gerdeman, Joseph 566 Gerdeman, Mathias 677 Gerdemann, Carl M. 811 Gerding, Hubert C. 879 Gerwert, Rev. Henry 815 Giesken, Frank 892 Giesken, Frank J. 841 Gilbert, Rufus E. 618 Gilhotte, George F. , 987 Gmeiner, Frank 330 Gores, George 1152 Grant, Franklin 596 Grismore, Henry 384 Groff, David H. 616 Gurney, Orren B. 800 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX. H Habegger, John 534 Halker, George 1344 Halker, Henry 1303 Halker, John W. 416 Hamden, George D. 877 Hammett, Frank K. .339 Handy, William H. 290 Harris, Shelby 1308 Hart, Christian A. 538 Hartman, Ernest L. 994 Hartman, John H. 940 Haselman, Theodore 1444 Haughn, John C 1030 Heck, John M. 944 Heckman, Theodore 464 Heidlebaugh, Judge A. M. 404 Heischman, Jesse N., D. V. S 964 Heising, Ferdinand 1336 Helmkamp, Frank W. 1387 Henry, Charles T. ^ 1080 Henry, Levi P. ,- 976 Hensel, Samuel D. 654 Heringhaus, Bernard H. 382 Hermiller, Frank B. 960 Hermiller, Fred A. 896 Hermiller, Henry J. 1136 Hermiller, Louis 912 Hickey, Reese F. 484 Hickey,.W. D., M. D. 346 Hickey, W. H., M. D. 346 Hilty, Benjamin B. 510 Hilty, Edward 438 Hilty, Henry 899 Hilty, Isaac 901 Hipkins, Thomas C. 609 Hixon, John W. — 996 Hoehn, Anton 1321 Hoffman, Daniel 1150 Hoffman, Frank 690 Hoffman, Harry L. 555 Hoffman, John H. 796 Hohenbrink, John W. 1130 Holtkamp, Herman 736 Holtzhauer, Charles F. 303 Horstman, Theodore 1208 Huffman, Charles H. 1391 Hummon, David 457 Hummon, Howard C. 357 Jiummon, Levi 352 Humphreys, Howard 925 Huysman, Aaron 1216 Huysman, Allen 1156 Huysman, Cornelius 1306 I Irwin, Benjamin F. 1271 Irwin, Charles P. 1226 Irwin, Guy 1251 Irwin, James A. 1114 J Jay, Prof. Harry M. 819 Jones, Charles H. 285 Jones, Charles H. 1361 Jones, John C. 1376 Jones, John E. 1446 Jones, John M. 1154 K Kagy, Stephen A. 1012 Kahle, August 563 Kahle, Frank, Sr. 717 Kahle, Ignatius 798 Kahle, Hon. Ignatius H. 1429 Kahle, Joseph H. 704 Kappauf, John G. 853 Kaufmann, Henry 1261 Kehres, John 1462 Keifer, Homer H. 1366 Keirns, Samuel H. 948 Kempf, Julian 894 Kenney, Henry U. 1358 Kerner, Edward 852 Kerner, Joseph 706 Kerner, Mathias J. 781 Kerner, Theodore J. 1403 Kersting, Joseph 875 Ketner, Henry S. 508 KiUen, Ralph P., D. D. S 953 Kimmerle, John F. 832 Kinder, George D. 712 Kirkendall, Benjamin 760 Kirkendall, Ralph S. 1191 Kissell, Robert W. 1007 Klausing, John 1301 Klausing, Joseph 1284 Kleman, John H. 1038 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX. Kline, William 490 Kneller, George W 1071 Knepper, Jacob G. 816 Knueven, Henry 1127 Kohli, E. D. 460 Kohls, John, Jr. 1046 Kohls, William 1 1383 Konst, Louis 802 Konst, Mathias ■ 863 Kottenbrock, Barney 1289 Kottenbrock, Henry , 1273 Kratz, Robert M. 1421 Kratzer, George 1061 Kreinbrink, Henry 582 Krohn, Samuel P. 906 Kuhlman, Anton 1245 Kuhn, Jacob M. 1347 Kuntz, Louis W. 354 L Laibe, Edmund L. 935 Lammers, Bernard J. 1300 Lammers, Henry J. 1452 Layport, Rev. Edward, D. D 1263 Layton, Robert B. 1168 Leffler, Daniel M. 884 Lehmden, Louis V. 1416 Leinsetter, David A. 1407 Leinsetter, George : 1062 Lemley, Dr. Ernest P. 615 Leopold, Bernard 1401 J^eopold, Joseph 1405 Lewis, John A.. 771 Liebrecht, Joseph *_ 880 Light, Henry F. 946 Little, Henry W. 1097 Logan, Frank 587 J-osh, Joseph 1255 Lowe, William H. 624 Lowry, James W. 1438 Lugibihl, Peter P. 474 Mc MacDonald, James 424 McClish, Gilbert 1206 McCrate, Edward L. 1378 McDougle, Herman 1010 McDowell, Orville 989 McGinnis, Joseph 1294 McKenzie, Homer E. 694 M Maag, Barney H. 411 Maag, John T. 1112 Maag, Joseph L G. 1311 Madden, John C. 872 Maidlow, John 1116 Mallahan, John T. 466 Mangus, Peter J. 1132 Mapel, Harry B. 1341 Mapel, William T. 1337 Matheny, John T. 723 Merschman, John 672 Mersman, George H. 312 Mersman, Judge Joseph 432 Meyer, Bernard' J. 1258 Meyer, Charles H. 1396 Meyer, Gerhard B. 1408 Meyer, Herman F. 1417 Meyer, John H. 1085 Meyer, John H. 1239 Meyer, John W. 428 Michel, Fred, Jr. 1044 Miller, David G. 1172 Miller, George W. 762 Miller, James H. 782 Miller, John F. 1218 Miller, John J. 1175 Miller, John J. 1108 Miller, John W. 1457 Missler, Peter A. 307 Moehring, Jacob F. 1084 Moening, Henry 363 Moening, John Theodore 426 Morman, Frank H. 1129 Morman, Herman W. 444 Muehe, Rev. Father M. 851 Mullet, William G. 696 Mullett, George 1134 Myers, Jacob S. 685 Myers, John A. 914 Myers, Samuel 1072 N Nartker, August 372 Nartker, Henry B. 866 Neill, Joseph W. 727 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX. Neiswander, Harry A., M. D 308 Neuenschwander, Philip 933 Newman, Rudolph 1102 Nichols, Amos .._- S80 Nienberg, Joseph — . 370 Nigsch, Rev. Francis 480 Noirot, Celestian, Jr. 1056 Noirot, Theodore _ 856 Noirot, Victor _ 631 Norman, John B. 1259 O Ockuly, John F., M. D 1323 Ogan, Judge Julius S. 288 Otte, GerTiard H. 1177 Owens, David F. 977 P Pahl, Frank 1165 Palmer, Carleton P. 520 Parrett, Harry C. 570 Phillips, J. C 500 Pierman, Charles O. 1052 Pierman, Homer W. 1042 Pollard, Arthur L., D. V. S 861 Pritchard, Martin L. 676 R Rager, Alonzo 688 Rampe, John J. 387 Rampe, William 413 Rampe, William 942 Rauh, H. F. 1436 Ray, Charles J., M. D. 487 Ream, Henry D. 584 Recker, Frank 1277 Red, Ladis 1183 Redd, August 1352 Reed, Warren F., M. D. 320 Reeder, Henry E. 129S Reese, Albert 1228 Reese, Josirus R. 1230 Reiger, William E. 758 Reinman, John E. 373 Remlinger, William T. 1161 Renshaw, David H. 575 Reynolds, David S. 1212 Rhodes, Charles 786 Rhodes, William D. 789 Rickard, Isaac S. 521 Ridenour, George 1104 Rieman, Andrew J. 679 Rieman, Frank, Jr. 702 Riem-an, Frank, Sr. 648 Rieman, Ignatius 773 Rimer, Clement C. 549 Rimer, Francis M. 733 Risser, Daniel R. 1232 Risser, David 477 Risser, Julius C. 640 Risser, Otto 848 Risser, William M. 360 Roberts, Hiram A. 613 Robinson, James C. 95s Roose, John E. 381 Rosenbauer, John 1285 Rower, Thomas H. 322 Rower, William H. 845 Rowlands, David 1326 Ruen, Frank W. 1394 Ruhe, Bernard A. 1333 Ruhe, Henry B. 593 Ruhe, Henry W. 1034 Ruhe, Theodore H. 830 Ruhl, Henry C, M. D. 304 S Sakemiller, Christian 1222 Sakemiller, William 1220 Sandles, Hon. Alfred P. 1122 Schafer, Benjamin F. 1049 Schafer, Charles C. ^—1008 Schafer, Henry P. 639 Schafer, John S. 1188 Schafer, William W. 826 Scharf, Peter A. 1350 gchey, John B. 1095 Schey, Peter __-^ 1066 Schey, Philip, Jr. 1064 Schey, Philip, Sr. 1069 Schimmoller, John H. 843 Schlagbaum, William 1040 Schmenk, Herman B. 938 Schmitt, Peter 1328 Schram, George J. 1410 Schroeder, Frederick W. 635 Schroeder, Matthias 1076 Schubert, Herman 592 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX. Schumacher, Rev. Albert 904 Schumacher, Christian, Jr. 929 Schumacher, Noah 917 Schumacker, Joseph 1324 Schumaker, Joseph J. 1381 Schutz, Albert 441 Schutz, John A. 784 Seall, George H. 979 Sehlhorst, Henry 1330 Seimet, John 858 Seimet, Lawrence 1147 Seitz, Benjamin F., Sr. 349 Seitz, Peter 1243 Shafer, John F. 1088 Shaffer, Earl J. 870 Shank, David C. 376 Shank, Joseph M. 650 Sherrard, William C. 1426 Shirley, Nathan C. — . 600 Simon, Chester L. 1137 Simon, John A. 11S7 Simon, Lewis 70& Simonds, Edd. B. 462 Skiver, Merrick 620 Slaybaugh, Archie A. 54'-, Smith, Anthony 824 Smith, Charles R. 741 Smith, Frank J 744 Smith, George F. P. 343 Smith, Hubert 829 Smith, J. August 821 Smith, J. W. 1435 Smith, John M. 1087 Smith, L. Jacob 744 Smith, 'Sanford 608 Smith, William 822 Smith, William W. 536 Speaker, Nimrod 332 Starkweather, Alfred A. 1312 Starling, William D. 356 Stauffer, George A. 448 Stechschulte, August 379 Stechschulte,- Bernard L 1119 Stechschulte, Edward B. 699 Steffen, Christ 1140 Steiner, David C. 542 Steiner, Gideon C. 436 Steiner, Peter P 316 Steiner, Ulrich S. 502 Stephens, John B. 731 Stevenson, Walter S. 367 Stoepfel, Florian 687 Stuber, Ludwig 1078 Summers, Hiram M. 558 Suter, Jacob A. 344 Syfert, George B. 1253 T Tate, Ashford L. 496 Teegardin, James H. 738 Teegardin, Thomas M. 1246 Thomas, James G. 1234 Thomas, John E. 754 ThrailkiU, Albert H. 1090 Todd, Orville V. 970 Townsend, Orren E. 364 Trask, William V. 1413 Trietch, Adam 578 Tudor, William 807 U Unterbrink, Henry J. 1374 Unterbrink, William J. 603 Unverferth, Bernard A. 440 Unverferth, Joseph A. 573 Utendorf, Bernard R. 1364 Utendorf, John H. 1264 V Vale, Mrs. Jean P. 888 Van Meter, Carl Regil 446 Varner, Asa 645 Varner, Charles 629 Varner, William J. 882 Verhoff, August G. 839 Verhoff, Frank F. 715 Verhoff, Frank J. 637 Verhoff, Frederick W. 692 Verhoff, Henry B. 1368 Verhoff, John B. L 928 Verhoff, John T. 642 Verhoff, Joseph C. 658 Verhoff, Mathias T. ^_-_ 670 Verhoff, Theodore 584 Verhoff, William F. 898 Vogel, Joseph 656 Von Lehmden, Louis 1416 W Wallen, Frank W. 1304 Walters, John A. 923 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX. Wannemacher, Henry 1179 Wannemacher, John H. 1186 Wannemacher, Joseph C. 1024 Ward, Henry 1081 Warnecke, Joseph 660 Warren, Francis M. 1001 Watterson, Dr. Ethelbert S70 Wehinger, August H. 1443 Welty, Aldine J. 296 Welty, Elias 752 Wendell, Harry F. 334 Werner, William L., M. D 294 White, John H. 1093 Wight, Charles E S60 Wilkins, Sherman A. 430 Williams, Henry R. 794 Williams, John D. 749 Williams, Michael 1181 Williams, Peter 1143 Williams, Thomas S. 171 Williams, Walter E. 775 Wing, Henry 835 Winkelman, George 1019 Winkler, John W. 37S Wischmeyer, William J. 1266 Wisterman, David 626 WoIIam, William L. 1236 Wood, Moston 747 Wynkoop, Lance M. 680 Y Yenner, John G., Jr. 1441 Young, Anderson J. 392 Young, Isaac N. 1209 Young, William P. S. 402 Z Zahrend, Mrs. Addie L. (Hall) 328 Zimmerly, Christian 516 Zink, Joseph 1268 Zuercher, Isaac 451 HISTORICAL CHAPTER I. RELATED STATE HISTORY. The first white men to set foot upon the Northwest Territory were French traders and missionaries under the leadership of La Salle. This -was about the year 1670 and subsequent discoveries and explorations in this region by the French gave that nation practically undisputed possession of all the territory organized in 1787 as the Northwest Territory. It is true that the English colonies of Virginia, Connecticut and Massachusetts claimed that their charters extended their grants westward to the Mississippi river. However, France claimed this territory and successfully maintained posses- sion of it until the close of the French and Indian War in 1763. At that time the treaty of Paris transferred all of the French claims east of the Mississippi river to England, as well as all claims of France to territory on the mainland of North America. For the next twenty years the Northwest Territory was under the undisputed control of England, but became a part ■of the United States by the treaty which terminated the Revolutionary War in 1783. Thus the flags of three nations have floated over the territory now comprehended within the present state of Ohio — the tri-color of France, the union jack of England and the stars and stripes of the United States. History will record the fact that there was another nation, however, -which claimed possession of this territory and, v/hile the Indians can hardly be -called a nation, yet they made a gallant fight to retain their hunting -grounds. The real owners of this territory struggled against heavy odds to maintain their supremacy and it was not until the battle of Tippecanoe, in the fall of 181 1, that the Indians gave up the unequal struggle. Tecumseh, the Washington of his race, fought fiercely to save this territory for his people, but the white man finally overwhelmed him, and "Lo, the poor Indian" -was pushed westward across the Mississippi. The history of the Northwest 3 34 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Territory is full of the bitter fights which the Indian waged in trying to drive the white man out, and the defeat which the Indians inflicted on General St. Clair on November 4, 1792, will g'O down in the annals of American history as the worst defeat which an American army ever suffered at the hands of the Indians. The greatest battle which has ever been fought in the United States against the Indians occurred in the state of Ohio. This was the battle of Fallen Timbers and occurred August 20, 1794, the scene of the battle being within the present county of Defiance. After the close of the Revolutionary War the Indians, urged on by the British, caused the settlers in the Northwest Territory continual trouble and defeated every de- tachment sent against them previous to their defeat by Gen. Anthony Wayne at the battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794. Although there was some trouble with the Indians after this time, they never offered serious resistance after this memorable defeat until the fall of 181 1, when Gen. William Henry Har- rison completely routed them at the battle of Tippecanoe. TERRITORY NORTHWEST OF THE OHIO (167O-I754). Ohio was the first state created out of the old Northwest Territory, although Indiana had been previously organized as a territory. When the land comprehended within the Northwest Territory was discovered by the French under La Salle about 1670, it was a battle ground of various Indian tribes, although the Fries, who were located along the shores of Lake Erie, were the only ones with a more or less definite territory. From 1670 to 1763, the close of the French and Indian War, the French were in possession of this territory and established their claims in a positive manner by exten- sive exploration and scattered settlements. The chief centers of French settlement were at Detroit, Vincennes, Kaskaskia, Cahokia, Fort Crevecour and at several missionary stations around the shores of the great lakes. The French did not succeed in doing this without incurring the hostility of the Iroquois Indians, a bitter enmity which was brought about chiefly because the French helped the Shawnees, Wyandots and Miamis to drive the Iroquois out of the territory west of the Muskingum river in Ohio. It must not be forgotten that the Fnglish also laid claim to the North- west Territory, basing their claim on the discoveries of the Cabots and the subsequent charters of Virginia, Massachusetts and Connecticut. 'These charters extended the limits of these three colonies westward to the Pacific ocean, although, as a matter of fact, none of the three colonies made a settle- ment west of the Alleghanies until after the Revolutionary War. New York- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 35 sought to Strengthen her claim to territory west of the Aheghanies in 1701, by getting from the Iroquois, the bitter enemies of the 'French, a grant to the territory from which the French and their Indian ahies had previously ex- pelled them. Although this grant was renewed in 1726 and again confirmed in 1744, it gave New York only a nominal claim and one which was never recognized by the French in any way. English traders from Pennsylvania and Virginia began in 1730 to pay more attention to the claims of their country west of the Alleghanies' and north of the Ohio river. When their activities reached the ears of the French the governor of French Canada sent Celeron de Bienville up and down the Ohio and the rivers and streams running into it from the north and took formal possession of the territory by planting lead plates at the mouth of every river and stream of any importance. This peculiar method of the French in seeking to establish their .claims occurred in the year 1749 and opened the eyes of England to the necessity of taking some immediate action. George II, the king of England at the time, at once granted a charter for the first Ohio Company (there were two others by the same name later organized), composed of London merchants and enterprising Virginians, and the com- pany at once proceeded to formulate plans to secure possession of the territory north of the Ohio and west of the Mississippi. Christopher Gist was sent down the Ohio river in 1750 to explore the country as far west as the mouth of the Scioto river, and made several treaties with the Indians. Things were now rapidly approaching a crisis and it was soon evident that there would be a struggle of arms between England and France for the disputed region. In 1754 the English started to build a fort at the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers, on the site of the present city of Pitts- burgh, but before the fort was completed the French appeared on the scene, drove the English away and finished the fort which had been begun. FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR ( 1 754-63). The crisis had finally come. The struggle which followed between the two nations ultimately resulted in the expulsion of the French from the mainland of America as well as from the immediate territory in dispute. The war is known in America as the French and Indian War and in the history of the world as the Seven Years' War, the latter designation being due to the fact that it lasted that length of time. The struggle developed into a world-wide conflict and the two nations fought over three continents, America, Europe and Asia. It is not within the province of this resume of ^6 PUTNAM COUNTY/ OHIO. the history of Ohio to go into the details of this memorable struggle. It is sufficient for the purpose at hand to state that the treaty of Paris, which terminated the war in 1763, left France without any of her former posses- sions on the mainland of America. PONTIAC'S CONSPIRACY ( 1 763-64). With the English in control of America east of the Mississippi river and the French regime forever ended, the Indians next command the attention of the historian who deals with the Northwest Territory. The French were undoubtedly responsible for stirring up their former Indian allies and Pontiac's conspiracy must be credited to the influence of that nation. This formidable uprising was successfully overthrown by Henry Bouquet, who led an expedition in 1764 into the present state of Ohio and compelled the Wyandots, Delawares and Shawnees to sue for peace. NORTHWEST TERRITORY AND QUEBEC ACT. From 1764 to 1774, no events of particular importance occurred within the territory north of the Ohio river, but in the latter year (June 22, 1774), England, then at the breaking point with the colonies, passed the Quebec act, which attached this territory to the province of Quebec for administra- tive purposes. This intensified the feeling of resentment which the colonies bore against their mother country and is given specific mention in their list of grievances which they enumerated in their Declaration of Independence. The Revolutionary War came on at once and this act, of course, was never put into execution. REVOLUTIONARY PERIOD ( 1 775-83). During the War for Independence (1775-1783), the various states with claims to western lands agreed with the Continental Congress to surrender their claims to the national government. In fact, the Articles of Confedera- tion were not signed until all of the states had agreed to do this and Mary- land withheld her assent to the articles until March i, 1780, on this account. In accordance with this agreement New York ceded her claim to the United States in 1780, Virginia in 1784, Massachusetts in 1785 and Connecticut in 1786, although the latter state excepted a one-hundred-and-twenty-mile strip of three million five hundred thousand acres bordering on Lake Erie. This PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 37 strip was formally relinquished in 1800, with the understanding that the United States would guarantee the titles already issued by that state. Vir- ginia was also allowed a reservation, known as the Virginia Military Dis- trict, which lay between the Little Miami and Scioto rivers, the same being for distribution among her Revolutionary veterans. There is one other fact which should be mentioned in connection with the territory north of the Ohio in the Revolutionary period. This was the memorable conquest of the territory by Gen. George Rogers Clark. During the years 1778 and 1779, this redoubtable leader captured Kaskaskia, Cahokia and Vincennes and thereby drove the English out of the Northwest Territory. It is probable that this notable campaign secured this territory for the Americans and that without it we would not have had it included in our possessions in the treaty which closed the Revolutionary War. FIRST SURVEYS AND EARLY SETTLERS. The next period in the history of the territory north of the Ohio begins with the passage of a congressional act (May 20, 1785), which provided for the present system of land surveys into townships six miles square. As soon as this was put into operation, settlers — and most Revolutionary soldiers — ■ began to pour into the newly surveyed territory. A second Ohio Company was organized in the spring of 1786, made up chiefly of Revolutionary officers and soldiers from New England, and this company proposed to estab- lish a state somewhere between Lake Erie and the Ohio River. At this junc- ture Congress realized that definite steps should be made at once for some kind of government over this extensive territory, a territory which now in- cludes the present states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and about a third of Minnesota. Various plans were proposed in Congress and most of the sessions of 1786 and the first half of 1787 were consumed in trying to formulate a suitable form of government for the extensive terri- tory. The result of all these deliberations resulted in the famous Ordinance of 1787, which was finally passed on July 13, 1787. ORDINANCE OF 1 787. There have been many volumes written about this instrument of gov- ernment and to this day there is a difference of opinion as to who was its author. The present article can do no more than merely sketch its outline and set forth the main provisions. It was intended to provide only a tem- 3© PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. porary government and to serve until such a time as the population of the territory would warrant the creation of states with the same rights and privileges which the thirteen original states enjoyed. It stipulated that not less than three nor more than five states should ever be created out of the whole territory and the maximum number was finally organized, although it was not until 1848 that the last state, Wisconsin, was admitted to the Union. The third article, "Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of educa- tion shall forever be encouraged," has given these five states the basis for their excellent system of public schools, state nonnals, colleges and uni- versities. Probably the most widely discussed article was the sixth, which pro- vided that slavery and involuntary servitude should never be permitted within the territory and by the use of the word "forever" made the territory free for all time. It is interesting to note in this connection that both Indiana and Illinois before their admission to the Union sought to have this pro- vision set aside, but every petition from the two states was refused by Con- gress in accordance with the provision of the Ordinance. FIRST STAGE OF GOVERNMENT UNDER THE ORDINANCE. The ordinance contemplated two grades of territorial government. During the operation of the first grade of government the governor, his secre- tary and the three judges provided by the ordinance were to be appointed by Congress and the governor in turn was to appoint "such magistrates and other civil officers in each county and township as he shall deem necessary for the preservation of the peace and good will of the same." After the federal government was organized a statutory provision took the appoint- ment of these officers out of the hands of Congress and placed it in the hands of the President of the United States. All executive authority was given to the governor, all judicial authority to the three judges, while the governor and judges, in joint session, constituted the legislative body. This means that during the first stage of territorial government the people had absolutely no voice in the affairs of government and this state of affairs lasted until 1799, a period of twelve years. SECOND STAGE OF GOVERNMENT UNDER THE ORDINANCE. The second stage of government in the territory was to begin whenever the governor was satisfied that there were at least five thousand free male PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 39 inhabitants of the age of twenty-one and above. The main difference be- tween the first and second stages of territorial government lay in the fact that the legislative functions were taken from the governor and judges and given to a "general assembly, or legislature." The ordinance provided for the election of one representative for each five hundred free male inhabitants, the tenure of the office to be two years. While the members of the lower house were to be elected by the qualified voters of the territory, the upper house, to consist of five members, were to be appointed by Congress in a somewhat complicated manner. The house of representatives were to select ten men and these ten names were to be sent to Congress and out of this number five were to be selected by Congress. This provision, like the ap- pointment of the governor, was later changed so as to make the upper house the appointees of the President of the United States. The five men so selected were called councilors and held office for five years. ORGANIZATION OF THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. The first governor of the newly organized territory was Gen. Arthur St. Clair, a gallant soldier of the Revolution, who was appointed on October 5, 1787, and ordered to report for duty on the first of the following February. He held the office until Nox-ember 22, 1802, when he was dismissed by Presi- dent Jefferson "for the disorganizing spirit, and tendency of every example, violating the rules of conduct enjoined by his public station, as displayed in his address to the convention." The governor's duties were performed by his secretary, Charles W Byrd, until March i, 1803, when the state officials took their office. The first judges appointed were Samuel Holden Parsons, James Mitchell Varnum and John Armstrong. Before the time came for the judges to qualify, Armstrong resigned and John Cleves Symmes was ap- pointed in his place. The first secretary was Winthrop Sargent, who held the position until he was appointed governor of Mississippi Territory by the President on May 2, 1798. Sargent was succeeded by William Henry Har- rison, who was appointed by the President on June 26, 1798, and confirmed by the Senate two days later. Harrison was later elected as the first dele- gate of the organized Northwest Territory to Congress and the President then appointed Charles Willing Byrd as secretai-y of the Territory, Byrd's appointment being confirmed by the Senate on December 31, 1799. 4° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. REPRESENTATIVE STAGE OF GOVERNMENT (1799-1803). The Northwest Territory remained under the government of the first stage until September i6, 1799, when it formally advanced to the second or representative stage. In the summer of 1798 Governor St. Clair had ascer- tained that the territory had a population of at least five thousand free male inhabitants and, in accordance with the provisions of the Ordinance of 1787, was ready to make the change in its form of government. On October 29, 1798, the governor issued a proclamation to the qualified voters of the terri- tory directing them to choose members for the lower house of the Territorial Legislature at an election to be held on the third Monday of the following December. The twenty-two members so elected met on January 16, 1799, and, pursuant to the provisions of the ordinance, selected the ten men from whom the President of the United States later chose five for the Legislative Council. They then adjourned to meet on September 16, 1799, but since there was not a quorum on that day they held adjourned sessions until the 23rd, at which time a quorum was present. At the time the change in the form of government went into effect there were only nine counties in the whole territory. These counties had been organized either by the. governor or his secretaiy. The following table gives the nine counties organized before 1799, with the dates of their organization and the number of legislators proportioned to each by the governor : Date of Number of County. organization. representatives. Washington July 27, 1788 2 Hamilton January 4, 1790 7 St. Clair April 27, 1790 i Knox June 20, 1790 r Randolph October 5, 1795 i Wayne August 6, 1796 ^ Adams July 10, 1797 2 Jefferson July 29, 1797 j Ross August 20, 1798 4 FIRST TERRITORIAL LEGISLATURE OF NORTHWEST TERRITORY. The twenty-two representatives and five councilors were the first rep- resentative body to meet in the Northwest Territory and they represented a PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 4I constituency scattered over a territoi"y of more than two hundred and sixty- five thousand square miles, an area greater than Germany or France, or even Austria-Hungary. It would be interesting to tell something of the delibera- tions of these twenty-seven sterling pioneers, but the limits of the present article forbid. It is necessary, however, to make mention of one important: thing which they did in view of the fact that it throws much light on the subsequent history of the Northwest Territory. DIVISION OF 1800. The Legislature was authorized to elect a delegate to Congress and two candidates for the honor presented their names to the Legislature, William Henry Harrison and Arthur St. Clair, Jr., the son of the governor. The Legislature, by a joint ballot on October 3, 1799, elected Harrison by a vote of eleven to ten. The defeat of his son undoubtedly had considerable to do with the subsequent estrangement which arose between the governor and his legislature and incidentally hastened the division of the Northwest Terri- tory. Within two years from the time the territory had advanced to the second stage of government the division had taken place. On May 7, 1800, Congress passed an act dividing the Northwest Territory by a line drawn from the mouth of the Kentucky river to Fort Recovery, in Mercer county, Ohio, and thence due noi^th to the boundary line between the United States and Canada. Governor St. Clair favored the division because he thought it would delay the organization of a state and thus give him a longer lease on his position, but he did not favor the division as finally determined. He was constantly growing in disfavor with the people on account of his overbearing manner and he felt that he would get rid of some of his bitterest enemies if the western inhabitants were set off into a new territory. However, the most of the credit for the division must be' given to Harrison, who, as a dele- gate to Congress, was in a position to have the most influence. Harrison also was satisfied that in case a new territory should be formed he would be appointed its first governor and he was not disappointed. The territory west of the line above mentioned was immediately organized and designated as Indiana Territory, while the eastern portion retained the existing government and the old name — Northwest Territory. It is frequently overlooked that the Northwest Territory existed in fact and in name up until March i, 1803.. 42 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. CENSUS OF NORTHWEST TERRITORY IN 180O. The division of 1800 left the Northwest Territory with only about one- third of its original area. The census of the territory taken by the United States government in 1800 showed it to have a total population of forty- five thousand three hundred and sixty-live, which fell short by about fifteen thou- sand of being sufficient for the creation of a state as provided by the Ordi- nance of 1787, which fixed the minimum population at sixty thousand. The counties left in the Northwest Territory, with their respective population, are set forth in the appended table, all of which were within the present state ■of Ohio, except Wayne : Adams 3.432 Hamilton 14-632 Jefferson 8,766 Ross 8,540 Trumbull 1,302 Washington 5'427 Wayne 3,206 Total 45,365 The population as classified by the census with respect to age and sex is interesting and particularly so in showing that considerably more than one- third of the total population were children under ten years of age. Males. Females. Whites up to ten years of age 9,362 8,644 Whites from ten to sixteen 3'647 3,353 Whites from sixteen to twenty-six 4,636 3,861 Whites* from twenty-six to forty-five 4.^33 3,342 Whites forty-five and upward . i,955 i,395 Total 24,433 20,595 Total of both sexes 45,028 Total of other persons, not Indians 337 Grand Total 45,365 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 43 A digression is necessary at this point in order to trace the growth of settlement of the territory now within the present state of Ohio up to 1803, when it was admitted to the Union as a state. Marietta, founded in July, 1788, by the Ohio Company, is the oldest permanent settlement in the state. A number of New Jersey settlers were organized by John Cleves Symmes, and Symmes succeeded in securing a grant of land from Congress (1788- 1792) containing two hundred forty-eight thousand five hundred and forty acres, located between the Great Miami and Little Miami rivers. This grant of land is know in Ohio history as the Symmes purchase and contained the settlements of Columbia (1788) and Cincinnati (1789), although the latter place was first christened Losantiville. The man who devised this name exercised no small amount of ingenuity in its manufacture. The proposed settlement happened to be located at the mouth of the Licking river and this circumstance, with a little knowledge of Latin and a vivid imagination, was responsible for this hybrid word. The Latin word for town is "villa," which is Anglicized into "ville;" the Latin for opposite is "anti" and for mouth "os." There three Latin words account for the completed word, with the exception of the "L," and this letter is the initial letter of Licking. To make the word clear it must be read backward, syllable at a time — thus L-os-anti- ville, which being interpreted means the town opposite the mouth of the Licking. The Virginia Military District, to which reference has been made, was settled largely by people from that state. The Connecticut Reserve, along Lake Erie, attracted many settlers from that state, among whom should be mentioned Moses Cleaveland, who, in 1796, founded the city which bears his name. The northern part of the state did not begin to fill up rapidly until after 1832, when the Ohio-Erie canal was opened for traffic. There have been estimates running from fifteen to twenty thousand as to the number of people who floated down the Ohio river within a year after the Ordinance of 1787 went into efifect. COUNTY ORGANIZATION (1788-1810). It has already been stated that there were nine counties within the Northwest Territory in 1799, when it advanced to the second stage of terri- torial government. According to the provisions of the ordinance, the crea- tion of new counties was in the hands of the governor, although after the federal constitution went into effect the secretary was also given the same power. Knox and Wayne counties were started by Secretary AA''inthrop Sar- 44 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. gent according to this provision. The state of Ohio is now divided intO' eighty-eight counties, ten of which were created before the state was admitted to the Union on March i, 1803. The counties organized by Governor St. Clair, or his secretary, from 1788, when Washington county was organized, up to 1803, when the state was admitted to the Union, are ten in number: Washington, Hamilton, Wayne, Adams, Jefferson, Ross, Trumbull, Cler- mont, Fairfield and Belmont. The dates of the creation of the first six have already been given. Trumbull county was organized on July 10, 1800;. Clermont and Fairfield, December 9, 1800; Belmont, September 7, 1801. Between the years 1803 and 18 10, when Fayette county was organized, there were no less than twenty-four counties organized within the state of Ohio. The first session of the General Assembly of the state organized eight counties,, as follows : Franklin, Gallia, Greene, Scioto, Warren, Butler, Montgomery and Columbiana. Muskingum started its independent existence on the first day of March, 1804. In 1805 there were four counties created, Champaign, Athens, Geauga and Highland. The session of 1807 added four more to the rapidly growing state, Miami, Ashtabula, Cuyahoga and Portage. Thp following year saw six new counties opened for entry, Delaware, Stark, Tuscarawas, Preble, Knox and Licking. One county, Huron, was created in 1809. The five counties organized in 1810 included Fayette, Pickaway, Guern- sey, Clinton and Madison. This makes a total of thirty-nine counties up to and including the year 1810. In this year Cincinnati, the largest city of the .state, boasted of a population of two thousand three hundred and twenty. INDIAN WARS (1787-1803). The period from 1787 to 1803 in the Northwest Territory was marked by several bitter conflicts with the Indians. Just as at the close of the French and Indian War had the French stirred up the Indians against the Americans,, so at the close of the Revolutionary War did the English do the same thing. This inciting of the Indians by the British was one of the causes of the War of 1812, a struggle which has very appropriately been called the second War for Independence. The various uprisings of the Indians up to 1794 retarded the influx of settlers and was a constant menace to those who did venture into the territory. Three distinct campaigns were waged against the Indians during this period before they were finally subdued. The first campaign was under the command of Gen. Josiah Harmar, 1790, and re- sulted in a decisive defeat for the whites. The second expedition was under the leadership of Gen. Arthur St. Clair, the governor of the Territory, and' PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 45 was marked by one of the worst defeats ever suffered by an American army at the hands of the Indians. A lack of knowledge of Indian methods of warfare, combined with reckless mismanagement, sufficiently accounts for both disasters. It remained for Gen. Anthony Wayne, the "Mad Anthony" ■of Revolutionary fame, to bring' the Indians to terms. The battle which ■closed his campaign against the Indians is known as the battle of Fallen Timbers and was fought on August 20, 1794. The scene of the battle lies -along the Maumee river within the limits of the present county of Defiance. This crushing defeat of the Indians, a rout in which they had lost twelve •out of thirteen chiefs, was so complete that the Indians were glad to sue for peace. On June 10, 1795, delegates from the various Indian tribes, headed ■by their chiefs, met at Greenville, Ohio, to formulate a treaty. The United States government appointed General Wayne as commissioner plenipotentiary to draft the treaty and, after nearly two months of bickering, a treaty was -drawn up on August 3, 1795. It was signed by General Wayne on behalf of the United States and by ninety chiefs and the delegates of twelve interested tribes. The treaty was faithfully kept by the Indians and ever afterwards Little Turtle, the real leader of the Indians, was a true friend of the whites. It may be said that this battle of Fallen Timbers was the most important battle fought in America between the close of the War for Independence and the battle of Tippecanoe in the fall of 181 1. To General Anthony Wayne will remain the honor of opening the way for permanent settlement of the North- west Territory. THE FORMATION OF A NEW STATE. The three years intervening between the creation of Indiana Territory {May 7, 1800) and the admission of Ohio to the Union (March i, 1803), -are marked by an acrimonious struggle during which Governor St. Clair was constantly growing in disfavor with his Legislature and the great mass of the people of the territory. The Legislature wanted a state formed as soon as possible and succeeded in getting Congress to pass an act, April 30, 1802, authorizing the calling of a constitutional convention. This act established the limits of the proposed new state as follows : "That part of the North- west Territory bounded east by Pennsylvania, south by the Ohio river, west by a line drawn from the mouth of the Big Miami river due north to an east and west line passing through the south extremity of Lake Michigan, and by this line and the Canada line through Lake Erie to the west line of Penn- sylvania." Since these boundaries omitted the eastern half of the present 46 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. State of Michigan which had been left a part of tlic Northwest Territory by the division of May 7, 1800, it was denounced as a fraud by the Federahsts in the omitted territory. However, it is very plain that Congress carried out the intent of the Ordinance of 1787 by their act and the charge of political trickery fails of substantiation in the light of the specific provisions therein set forth regarding the creation of states out of the Northwest Territory. The enabling act provided for an election of delegates to the constitutional convention to be held in September of the same year (1802), the degelates to meet at Chillicothe on the first Monday of the following November. The thirty-five delegates met at the appointed time and by a vote of thirty-four to one, the negative vote being cast by Ephraim Cutler, decided to proceed at once to the organization of a state government and the formation of a consti- tution. The convention was in session until November 29th, at which time it had completed the first constitution for the state and the one which lasted until 1 85 1, when a second constitution was adopted. WHEN WAS OHIO ADMITTED TO THE UNION ?, It is interesting to note the difficulty which Ohio historians have had in trying to fix upon the date which marks the formal admission of the state to the Union. The natal day of Ohio has given rise to more dispute than the natal day of any other state in the Union. This is undoubtedly due to the fact that Congress never passed an act formally admitting it to the Union. There have been no less than five dates assigned by as many different authorities and each group of historians substantiate their claim by the citation of facts. These five dates are as follows: April 30, 1802; November 29, 1802; Febru- ary 19, 1803; March i, 1803; March 3, 1803. The first date (April 30, 1802) has for its chief sponsor the editor of the "United States Statutes at Large." This date is not tenable at all, since the territorial judges were in office for several months after this date and were, by the congressional act of February 21, 1806, paid their full salaries up to March i, 1803. The second date (November 29, 1802) is advanced by Hickey in his volume, "The Constitution," on the ground that the con- stitution was adopted on that day. The third date (February 19, 1803) has been held by several g-ood authorities, notably, Caleb x^twater, in his "Political Manual;" G. W. Pascal, in his "Annotated Constitution," and the late presi- dent of Marietta College, I. W. Andrews. It was upon this date that Con- gress passed an act to "provide for the due execution of the laws of the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 47 United States within the state of Ohio." This would seem to indicate that Congress recognized February 19, 1803, as the date of the admission of Ohio- to the Union, but when it is recalled that Congress had not yet appointed the necessary judicial officers it must be concluded that this is not the proper date.- The fourth date (March i, 1803) is now recognized officially as the actual- day on which Ohio formally entered the Union, although it was an act of Congress passed nearly three years later which definitely settled this fact.. The question arose in 1806 in Congress regarding the payment of the terri- torial officers and the act of February 21st of that year ordered that the gov- ernor and judges be paid for their services up to March i, 1803. There can be no question but that Congress placed its official approval on this date as being the first day of Ohio's existence as a separate state. The fifth and last date (March 3, 1803) was advanced as the real date of the admission of the state, for the reason that on this date Congress gave its approval to certain changes in the constitution of the state which had been adopted on November 29, 1802. These changes related to the disposition of certain school lands within the state and were of minor importance and in no sense- advocated any radical changes in the constitution of the state. However, on^ March 3, 1803, the state had been in full operation for a space of three days and exercising all the rights and privileges of a state ; the governor had been' installed; the Legislature was in session and the various state officials were discharging their duties in accordance with the constitution. Thus it must be concluded from all available evidence that Ohio was admitted to the Union on March i, 1803. CAPITALS OF NORTHWEST TERRITORY AND OHIO. The capital of the Northwest Territory was located within the present limits of Ohio during the whole existence of the Territory both before and after the division of the Territory in 1800. When the Ordinance of 1787 was formally put into operation, on July 17, 1788, the capital was established at Marietta, the name being chosen by the directors of the Ohio Company on July 2, 1788. The name of Marietta was selected in honor of the French Queen Marie Antoinette, compounded by a curious combination of the first and last syllables of her name. The capital remained at Marietta until 1800, when it was moved by the congressional act of May 7th of that year to Chillicothe and by the consti- tution adopted in 1802 the capital was to remain there at least until 1808. The Legislature of 1809 moved the capital to Zanesville until such time as a 48 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. permanent site should be selected. The Legislature at the same time that it moved the capital to Zanesville appointed commissioners to report at the fol- lowing sessions "the most eligible and central spot for permanently establish- ing it." The approaching War of 1812 made it necessary to take the capital back to Chillicothe, where there was less danger from attack by the Indians and British. The commissioners appointed by the Legislature of 1809 se- lected a small village by the name of Dublin, on the Scioto, about fourteen miles north of Columbus, but the Legislature refused to abide by their choice. The capital was permanently located at Columbus by the legislative act of February 14, 18 12, although no less than nine different sites were under consideration before the final decision was made. The act selecting the site did not choose a name for the proposed city and this honor belongs to Joseph Foos, the senator from Franklin county, who had been largely instrumental in the selection of the Legislature. At that time there was a solitary log ■cabin on the site and the whole tract was covered with a dense forest. The act of February 17, 1816, formally designated Columbus as the capital "from and after the second Tuesday of October, 1816." During the War of 1812, and until the buildings were ready at Columbus, the capital remained at -Chillicothe. CONSTITUTIONAL HISTORY OF OHIO. The state of Ohio has had four constitutional conventions : 1802, 1850-51, 1873-74 and 1912. The constitution of 1802, it is interesting to note, was never submitted to the people for ratification. Between the adoption of the first and second constitutions there was an effort to hold a constitutional convention. A resolution, passed December 25, 1818, authorized a vote on the question of holding a constitutional convention, but at the election which was subsequently held it was decided adversely by a vote of 29,315 to 6,987. The main facts concerning the second constitutional convention may be briefly sumined up as follows : The Legislature on October 9, 1849, author- ized a vote on the question of holding a convention and the voters of the state cast a majority of 94,531 in favor of the constitutional convention. The vote stood 145,698 for and 51,167 against the convention. On April i, 1850, the one hundred and eight delegates were elected and on the 6th of the following May they met at Columbus. The convention was in continuous session until July 9, 1850, and then, not having yet completed their delibera- tions, adjourned to meet again on December 2, 1850. The second session continued to hold daily meetings until March 10, 1851, when it finally con- ■cluded its labors after having spent a total of one hundred and sixty-three PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 49 ■days. The constitution was submitted to the people of the state on June 17, 185 1, and adopted by a vote of 125,564 to 109,276. An attempt to adopt a new constitution was made in 1874, but failed. On March 30, 1871, the Legislature provided for a vote on the question of holding a constitutional convention and at an election held October 10, 1871, it was decided, by a vote of 267,618 to 104,231, to hold such a convention. On April 6, 1873, the one hundred and five delegates to the convention were ■elected and on the 13th of the following month they met and organized. The convention continued in session from that date until August 8th, and, after a recess, met on December 2d and remained in continuous session until May 15th of the following year. The convention held daily sessions for one hundred and eighty days, one of the longest constitutional conventions ever held in the United States. With all this deliberation it would seem that a satisfactory constitution could have been framed, but the voters of the state, on August 18, 1874, rejected it by a vote of 250,169 to 102,885. This ex- pensive attempt to make a new constitution was sufficient to thwart all efforts along this line for several years. However, the changes in economic, social and industrial conditions became more pronounced year by year, and on March 9, 1909, the Legislature submitted the question of holding a constitu- tional convention. At an election held on November 8, 191 o, it was decided, by a vote of 693,263 to 67,718, to select delegates to a constitutional con- vention. The convention met on the second Tuesday of January, 1912, and remained in session until June 8, 19 12, when it finally concluded its labors. This convention submitted forty-two changes in the existing constitution and on September 3d of the same year the qualified voters of the state accepted all but 'eight of the proposed amendments. The eight amendments lost are as follows : Suffrage, good roads, advertising, injunctions, capital punishment, voting machines, eligibility of women and elimination of word "white" from the constitution. The amendments which carried by various majorities con- cerned the following subjects : Jury system, depositions, suits, wrongful death, initiative and referendum, investigations, limiting veto, mechanics' lien, welfare, compensations, conservation of natural resources, eight-hour day, removal of officials, expert testimony, land titles, prison contracts, extra sessions, reform of the judiciary, county judges, justices, school boards, school commissioners, insurance abolishing of board of public works, taxa- tion, corporations, double liability, state printing, civil service, submission of amendments, home rule for cities, schedule and license. The fight was the most bitter on woman's suffrage and the initiative and referendum. The 4 50 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. vote on the first proposition was 249,420 to 336,875, and was defeated largely on account of the activity of the liquor interests. The initiative and referen- dum carried by a vote of 312,592 to 231,312, despite the fact that every ruse and trick known to professional politicians was used to compass its defeat. On November 3, 1914, there were four constitutional amendments sub- mitted to the voters of the state and the two which caused the most discussion, viz., woman's suffrage and prohibition, were defeated. The other two amend- ments related to home rule for cities and the regulation of the liquor traffic. MILITARY RECORD. The state of Ohio has had its citizens in four wars in which the United States has engaged since 1803; the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. It is very unfortunate that the public records of Ohio contain no list of the soldiers of the state who fought in the War of 1812, although large numbers of the citizens served in the field under various commanders. The records as regards the Mexican War are fairly complete and show that a total of 5,536 ^nen were sent ital of the state, Columbus, is in the extreme western side of this tract. CONGRESS LANDS. Some of the tracts of land already described were Congress lands, viz., the French Grant, the Seven Ranges and the Refugee Tract. Congress re- tained and sold all lands not specifically relinquished to land companies and ■established land offices for the purpose at different times at Marietta, Cin- cinnati,' Steubenville, Chillicothe, Zanesville, Canton, Wooster, Piqua, Dela- ware, Wapakoneta, Lima and Upper Sandusky. THE MORAVIAN GRANT. The congressional grant to the Ohio Company in 1787 reserved ten thousand acres in what is now Tuscarawas county for the use of the Mora- vians and Christian Indians who had previously settled there, the title being vested in the Moravian Brethren at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. A few years later two' thousaiid acres were added to the original grant and in 1823 the territory reverted to the United States, with the exception of the cemeteries, church yards and a few special leases. dohrman's grant. Congress granted all of township 13, range 7, in Tuscarawas county to ■one Henry Dohrman, a Portuguese citizen, who rendered valuable services to the colonies during the Revolutionary War. THE MAUMEE road LANDS. In 1823 Congress granted to the state of Ohio about sixty thousand acres for the purpose of constructing a road from the lower rapids of the Maumee river to the western limits of the Western Reserve of Connecticut. 56 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. THE TURNPIKE LANDS. In 1827 Congress granted to the state of Ohio forty-nine sections of land in Seneca, Crawford and Marion counties, for the construction of a road from Columbus to Sandusky. CANAL GRANTS. Between 1825 and 1845 Congress at different times made special grants of land to the state of Ohio for canal purposes, and a total of about one million acres were thus secured by the state. By the year 1842 the state had completed six hundred and fifty-eight miles of canals, at the staggering cost to the state of $14,688,666.97, although before they were all completed the railroads were in operation in the state. SALT SECTiONS. In the early history of the Northwest Territory salt was a commodity hard to secure and necessarily high in price. Congress reserved every place where it was thought salt could be obtained and in this way helped the settlers to get salt at least expense. In Ohio an entire township within the present county of Jackson was reserved, as well as about four thousand acres in Delaware county. In 1824 Congress relinquished its claim in favor of Ohio. THE ZANE SECTI0N.S. Ebenezer Zane, one of the most prominent of the men in the early his- tory of the state, was granted three sections by Congress in 1796 in return for his services in opening a road from Wheeling to Maysville. These three sections were located at Zanesville, Chillicothe and Lancaster. Isaac Zane was granted three sections in Champaign county by Congress for valuable service to the colonies during the Revolution. Isaac Zane had been cap- tured by the Indians when a small boy and spent the major portion of his life with them, and his influence with the Indians was such that he proved to be of great assistance to the colonies in handling them. THE MINISTERIAL LANDS. These lands have been previously mentioned and were reserved only in two grants, those of the Ohio Land Company and the Symmes Purchase. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 57" The grants to both set aside section twenty-nine of each township for religious purposes. SCHOOL SECTIONS. Provisions for pubHc schools were made in all states created by the United States after the adoption of the constitution. The Ordinance of 1787 had made specific mention of the value of schools and a wise Congress set aside section sixteen of every township, which was surveyed into town- ships six miles square. The United States military lands were surveyed into townships, five miles square, but Congress reserved one thirty-sixth of the whole area for school purposes. There are no reservations in the Connecti- cut Reserve and Virginia Military District for school purposes, but Congress made up for this by setting aside an amount equivalent to one thirty-sixth of the area in each tract from other lands belonging to the United States. As a matter of fact, one thirty-sixth of the whole state was reserved for school purposes as well as three townships for universities. OHIO POLITICS. The politics .of Ohio presents many interesting features, but this brief summary can do little more than indicate the more important landmarks in the political history of the state. The first governor of the Northwest Terri- tory, Arthur St. Clair, was an ardent Federalist and undoubtedly his pro- nounced political views had something to do with his removal from the office on November 22, 1802. From that time until 1836 the Democratic party, or the Republican or Democratic-Republican, as it was at first called, controlled the state, and it was not until William Henry Harrison, a "favorite son," became a candidate for the presidency, that the Whigs were able to break the strength of the Democratic party of the state. In 1836, 1840 and 1844 the Whigs carried the state for the President. The panic of 1837, the popularity of Harrison and the Texas question were largely determining factors in the success of the Whigs. The Democrats regained sufficient power in 1848 to carry the state again, and repeated their victory in 1852. In 1856 John C. Fremont carried the state for the newly organized Republican party and since that year there has been only one Democratic electoral vote in the state of Ohio. In 1892 Grover Cleveland received one of Ohio's twenty- three electoral votes, but with this exception the state has cast a solid Republican vote for President every year since 1856. Ohio has furnished five Presidents of the United States : William Henry Harrison, Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, William McKinley and William H. Taft. eg PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. While the state has been registering Repubhcan votes for the President, it has had eight Democratic governors and has frequently elected them by large majorities. A complete list of the governors of the state, with the years of their tenure and their politics, is given at this point for reference : Governor. Tenure. Politics Edward Tiffin 1803-07 Democratic-Rep. Thomas Kirker (acting) 1807-09 Democratic-Rep. Samuel Huntington 1809-11 Democratic-Rep. Return Jonathan Meigs 1811-14 Democratic-Rei> Othniel Looker (acting) 1814-15 Democratic-Rep. Thomas Worthington 1815-19 Democratic-Rep. Ethan Allen Brown 1819-22 Democratic-Rep. Allen Trimble (acting) 1822-23 Democratic-Rep. Jeremiah Morrow 1823-27 Democrat Allen Trimble 1827-31 Democrat Duncan McArthur 1831-33 National Republican Robert Lucas 1833-37 Democrat Joseph Vance 1837-39 Whig Wilson Shannon 1839-41 Democrat Thomas Corwin 1841-43 Whig Wilson Shannon 1843-44 Democrat Thomas W. Bartley (acting) 1844-4S Democrat Mordecai Bartley ___ 1845-47 Whig William Bebb 1847-49 Whig Seabury Ford 1849-51 Whig Reuben Wood 1851-53 Democrat William Medill (acting, 1853) 1853-56 Democrat Salmon P. Chase 1856-60 Republican WiUiam Dennison, Jr. 1860-62 Republican David Tod 1862-64 Republican John Brough 1864-65 Repubhcan Charles Anderson (acting) 1865-66 Republican Jacob D. Cox 1866-68 Repubhcan Rutherford B. Hayes 1868-72 Republican Edward F. Noyes 1872-74 Repubhcan William Allen 1874-76 Democrat Rutherford B. Hayes 1876-77 Republican Thomas L. Young 1877-78 Republican PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 59 Governor. Tenure. Politics. Richard M. Bishop 1878-80 Democrat ■Charles Foster 1880-84 RepubHcan George Hoadley 1884-86 Democrat Joseph Benson Foraker 1886-90 Republican James E. Campbell 1890-92 Democrat William McKinley 1892-96 Republican Asa S. Bushnell 1896-00 Republican George K. Nash 1900-04 Republican Myron T. Herrick 1904-06 Republican John M. Patterson (died in office)--- 1906 Democrat Andrew Litner Harris 1906-09 Republican Judson Plarmon 1- 1909-13 Democrat James M. Cox 1913-15 Democrat Frank B. Willis 1915 — Republican The political history of Ohio can not be dismissed without reference to the amendments incorporated in the new constitution in 19 12 which have made the constitution practically a new instrument of government. The general tendency of the thirty-three amendments is to make a freer expression of democracy through the medium of the initiative and referendum, direct pri- maries and home rule for cities. A workmen's compensation law was enacted which provides for compulsory contributions to an insurance fund by the ■employers of the state. Many changes were made in providing for improve- ments in social and industrial conditions. Ohio now has a constitution which is sufficiently flexible to allow changes to be made by amendment with- •out the trouble of a constitutional convention. BOUNDARY LINES. The state boundaries of Ohio have been the cause for most animated ■discussions, not only in regard to state limits but county and township lines as well. In 181 7, and again in 1834, a severe controversy arose over the boundary between Ohio and Michigan which was settled only after violent ■demonstrations and government interference. In primitive times the geographical position, extent and surface diversi- ties were but meagerly comprehended. In truth, it may be asserted they could not have been more at variance with actual facts had they been laid out ^'haphazard." The Ordinance of 1787 represented Lake Michigan far north 6q PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of its real position, and even as late as 1812 its size and location had not been definitely ascertained. During that year Amos Spafford addressed a clear, comprehensive letter to .the governor of Ohio relative to the boundary lines between Michigan and Ohio. Several lines of survey were laid out as the first course, but either Michigan or Ohio expressed disapproval in every case. This dispute came to a climax in 1835 when the party beginning a "perma- nent" survey began at the northwest corner of the state and was attacked by a force of Michigan settlers who sent them away badly routed and beaten. No effort was made to return to the work until the state and various parties had weighed the subject, and finally the interposition of the government became necessary. A settlement resulted in the establishment of the present boundary line between the two states, Michigan being pacified with the grant of a large tract in the northern peninsula. Ohio is situated between the 38° 25' and 42" north latitude, and 80^^ 30' and 84° 50' west longitude from Greenwich, or 3° 30' and 7" 50' west from Washington. From north to south it extends over two hundred and ten miles, and from east to west two hundred and twenty miles — com- prising thirty-nine thousand nine hundred and sixty-four scjuare miles. The state is generally higher than the Ohio river. In the southern counties the surface is greatly diversified by the inequalities produced by the excavating power of the Ohio river and its tributaries. The greater por- tion of the state was originally covered with timber, although in the central and northwestern sections some prairies were found. The crest or watershed between the waters of Lake Erie and those of the Ohio is less elevated than in New York or Pennsylvania. Sailing upon the Ohio the country appears tO' be mountainous, bluffs rising to the height of two hundred and fifty to six hundred feet above the bed of the river. Ascending the tributaries of the Ohio, these precipitous hills gradually lessen until they are resolved into gentle undulations and toward the sources of these streams the land becomes low and level. Although Ohio has no inland lakes of importance, it possesses a favor- able river system which gives the state a convenient water transportation. The lake on the northern boundary, and the Ohio river on the south afford convenient outlets by water to important points. The means of communica- tion and transportation are superior in every respect, and are constantly being increased by railroad and electric lines. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 6l ORGANIZATION OF COUNTIES AND EARLY EVENTS. Adams county Wfis named in honor of John Adams, the second Presi- dent of the United States. Governor St. Clair proclaimed it a county on July lo, 1797. The Virginia Military Tract included this section, and the first settlement made within its boundaries was in this county in 1790-91, between the Scioto and Little Miami, at Manchester, by Gen. Nathaniel Massie. In this town was held the first court of the county. West Union, the present county seat, was laid out by the Honorable Thomas Kirker. It occupies the summit of a high ridge. The surface of this county is hilly and broken, and the eastern part is not fertile. It produces corn, wheat and oats. Its hills are composed of aluminous shale. Ashland county, one of the finest agricultural sections, was formed February 26, 1846. Wheat, oats, corn, potatoes, grass and fruit are raised. Ashland is its county seat and was laid out by William Montgomery in 1816. It was called Uniontown for several years. Daniel Carter raised the first cabin within the county limits in 1811. Auglaize county was formed in February, 1848, from Allen and Mercer counties. Wapakoneta is its county seat. Auglaize is a great agricultural county, producing all the kinds of grain raised in Ohio. Allen county was formed from the Indian territory April i, 1820. Lima is its county seat. In Allen county are some of the greatest gas and oil fields in the United States, and the section is also very rich in agriculture. Ashtabula county was created June 7, 1807, and was organized January 22, 181 1. The surface is level near the lake, while the remainder is undu- lating. The soil is mostly clay. This was the first county settled on the Western Reserve and also the earliest in northern Ohio. On the 4th of July, 1796, the first surveying party arrived at the mouth of Conneaut creek. Judge James Kingsbury was the first who wintered there with his family. He was the first man to use a sickle in the first wheat field in the Western Re- serve. Their child was the first born on the Western Reserve and was starved to death. The first regular settlement was at Harpersfield in 1798. Jefferson is the county seat. Ashtabula is pleasantly situated on the river, with a fine harbor two and a half miles from the village. The first church on the Western Reserve was founded at Austinburg in 1801. Athens county was formed from Washington March i, 1805. It pro- duces wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. The surface is hilly and broken, with rich bottom lands between. Coal, iron ore and salt add materially to its com- 62 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. mercial value. Athens, its county seat, is situated on the Hocking river. Ohio University, the first college founded in the state, is located here. Brown county was foimed March i, 1818, from Adams and Clermont. It produces wheat, corn, rye and oats. The southern part is prolific in grain, while the northern is adapted to grazing purposes. The surface is undulating, with the exception of the Ohio river hills. Over this county Tecumseh once held sway. Georgetown, the county, seat, was laid out in 1819. Ripley is the largest business town in the county. Belmont county was created by Governor St. Clair September 7, 1801. It produces large crops of wheat, oats, corn and tobacco. It is a picturesque tract of country, and was one of the pioneers in the early settled portions. In 1790 Fort Dillie was erected on the west side of the Ohio. Baker's Fort was a mile below the mouth of the Captina. Many desperate Indian battles were fought within the limits of this county, and the famous Indian scout, Lewis Wetzel, roamed over the region. Saint Clairsville is the county seat, situated on the elevation of land, in a fertile district. Captain Kirkwood and Eliza- beth Zane, of historic fame, were early pioneers here. Butler county was formed in 1803 from Hamilton. It is within the blue limestone formation, and one of the most fertile sections of Ohio. Ham- ilton, the county seat, is situated on the Great Miami. Its hydraulic works furnish superior water power. Rossville, on the opposite side of the Miami, is a large mercantile town. St. Clair passed through this county on his Indian campaigns in 1791, building Fort Hamilton on the Miami. Champaign county was formed March i, 1805, from Greene and Frank- lin. It is drained by Mad river and its tributaries. The soil is fertile, and produces wheat, corn, barley, ha}^, while beef and wool add to the general wealth. Urbana, the county seat, was laid out in 1805, by Col. William Ward. He was the chief owner of .the land and donated many lots to the county under condition that their proceeds be devoted to public improvements. Joseph Vance and George Fithian were the first settlers. The Methodists built the first church in 1807. The main army of Hull concentrated at this point before setting out for Detroit. Many Indian councils were called here and Tecumseh was located for a time near Deer creek. Carroll county was formed from Columbiana in 1832-33. It produces wheat, oats and corn, and valuable coal and iron. The surface is hilly. Car- rollton is its county seat. Clark county was formed March i, 181 7, from Champaign, Madison and Green. Its second settlement was at Kreb's Station in 1796. It is highly cultivated, well watered and very fertile. Tecumseh, the old Indian PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 63 warrior, was born at the ancient Indian village of Piqua, on the Mad river on the site of New Boston. Piqua was destroyed by Gen. George Rogers Clark. Skeletons, beads, gun barrels, tomahawks, kettles, etc., have been found in the vicinity. Springfield, the county seat, is situated on the national road. It has convenient transportation facilities, is handsomely laid ou.t, and is noted for its cultured citizens. It is near Mad river and Buck creek runs through it. Clinton county was formed in 1810. Its surface is undulating, in some parts hilly, and the soil fertile. The county was settled in 1798-99. Wil- mington is the county seat, and was laid out in 1810. The first log house was built by William H'obsin. Clinton county is rich in agriculture and is noted for its macadamized roads. Clermont county was the eighth formed in the Northwest Territory by proclamation of Governor St. Clair, December 9, 1800. The soil is exceed- ingly rich, and the surface is broken and, near the Ohio, hilly. Wheat, corn, oats, hay, potatoes, tobacco, barley, buckwheat and rye form the main crops. Batavia, its county seat, is situated on the Little Miami river and was laid out in 1820 by George Ely. Columbiana county was formed March 25, 1803, from Jefferson and Washington. Its soil is very fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It is wealthy in mineral deposits, coal, iron ore, lime and freestone being abundant. Its water-lime stone is of superior quality. It was settled in 1797. Lisbon is the county seat. The first paper mill in Ohio was erected in this county, on Little Beaver creek, by John Coulter and John Bever. Coshocton county was organized April i, 181 1. Hills and valleys alter- nate along the Muskingum river. Coal and iron ore add to its general im- portance. Coshocton, the county seat, is built on four wide, natural terraces, at the junction of the Tuscarawas and Walhonding. Cuyahoga county was formed June 7, 1807, from Geauga county. Near the lake the soil is sandy, while a clayey loam may be found elsewhere. As early as 1775 there was a French settlement within the boundaries of Cuya- hoga. In 1786 a Moravian missionary came to the present site of Cleve- land and settled in an abandoned village of the Ottawas. Circumstances pre- vented a permanent settlement, and the British tacitly took possession, even remaining upon the lake shores after the Revolution. The first permanent settlement was made at Cleveland in 1796, Job V. Stiles and family and Edward Paine passed the first winter there, their log cabin standing where the Commercial Bank is now located. Rodolphus Edwards and Na- thaniel Doane settled here. In 1813 the town was a depot of supplies and a ^54 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. rendezvous for troops engaged in the war. Cleveland, the county seat, is situated at the northern termination of the Old Ohio canal on the lake shore. In 1814 it was incorporated as a village, and in 1836 as a city. Its elevation is about a hundred feet above the lake. Ohio City is another important town nearly opposite Cleveland on the Cuyahoga. It was incorporated in 1836. Crawford county was formed April i, 1820, from the old Indian Terri- tory. The entire county is adapted to grazing. The soil is generally com- posed of rich vegetable loam and in some parts the subsoil is clay mixed with Jime. Rich beds of shell marl have been discovered. Bucyrus, the county seat, was laid out February 11, 1822, by Samuel Norton and James Kil- .bourn, original owners of the land. The first settler in the town proper was Samuel Norton. Crawford's sulphur springs are located nine miles from Bucyrus. The water is impregnated with sulphuretted hydrogen and deposits a reddish-purple sediment. In its nature the water is a cathartic, and is diuretic and diaphoretic in its effect. The Annapolis Sulphur Springs is clear and has gained considerable fame by its curative qualities. Opposite Bucyrus is a chalybeate spring of tonic qualities. Darke county was organized in March, 181 7, from Miami county. In this county occurred the lamentable defeat of St. Clair, and the treaty of Greenville. Greenville, the county seat, was laid out August 10, 1808, by Robert Gray and John Dover. In December, 1793, Wayne built Fort Green^ ville on this spot, which covered about the same extent as the present town. Delaware county was formed February 10, 1808, from Franklin. Dela- ware, the county seat, was laid out in the spring of 1808, by Moses Byxbe. Because of its rich soil, Delaware is an important agricultural county. The historic streams, the Scioto and Olentangy rivers, run through the county a long distance. Defiance county was created March 4, 1845, from Williams, Henry and Paulding. The Maumee, Tiffin and Auglaize flow through it. The county is now one of the largest producers of sugar beets in Ohio. Defiance, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee. It was laid out in 1822 by B. Level and H. Phillips. A large Indian settlement occupied its site in very early times. Wayne arrived here August 8, 1794, captured the place, finding about one thousand acres of corn, peach and apple orchards and vegetables of all varieties. Here he built Fort Defiance. Erie county was formed in 1838 from Huron and Sandusky. The soil is alluvial and yields large crops of wheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It pos- sesses inexhaustible quarries of limestone and freestone. The Erie tribe is said to have once occupied the land and were extirpated by the Iroquois. As PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 65 -early as 1754, the French had built settlements here. In 1764 the county was oveiTun by Pontiac, who came here with warlike demonstrations, but made peace with the whites. Erie was included in the "P'ire lands" of the Western Reserve. Sandusky City is the county seat and was laid out in 18 17, then termed Portland. At that time it contained two log huts. The town is finely situated and is based upon an inexhaustible quarry of the finest limestone. In the "patriot war" with the Canadians, this city was the rendezvous for the "patriots." Franklin county was formed April 30, 1803, from Ross. It was in early times occupied by the Wyandot Indians. Its first white settlement was made in 1797 by Robert Armstrong and others. Franklinton was laid out in 1797 by Lucas Sullivant. Worthington was settled by the Scioto Company in 1801. Colonel Kilbourn, who was interested in the work, constructed the first map -of Ohio during his exploration by uniting sectional diagrams. Columbus, the capital of the state, is also the county seat of Franklin county. In 1810 the sessions of the Legislature were held at Chillicothe, in 181 1 and 1812 at Zanesville, removing again to Chillicothe, and in 18 16, being located at Columbus. The town was laid out during the spring of 1812. A penitentiary was erected in 18 13 and the state house was built in 18 14. It was incorpor- ated as "the borough of Columbus" February 10, 1816. The city charter was granted March 3, 1834. It is beautifully located on the east bank of the Scioto. The Ohio Lunatic Asylum, the Ohio Institution for the Education •of the Blind and the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Deaf and Dumb are located at Columbus. Fairfield county was formed by proclamation of Governor St. Clair, December 9, 1800. The soil is varied, being in some parts exceedingly rich, .and in others very sterile. Lancaster, the county seat, was laid out by Ebenezer Zane in 1800. In 1797 he opened the road known as "Zane's Trace," from Wheeling to Limestone — now Maysville. It passed through Lancaster at a fording about three hundred yards bejow the present turnpike bridge. Fayette county was formed from Ross and Highland in 18 10. Wash- ington, its county seat, was laid out in 18 10. Colonel Stewart was active in the interests of this section and his memory is sacredly revered. Jesse Milli- kan was prominent in early public affairs. Fayette is one of the richest agri- cultural counties in the state and is especially noted for the raising of fine iiorses. Fulton county, bordering on Michigan, was organized in 1850. It is 5 66 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. drained by Bean creek and other small affluents of the Maiimee river. The surface is nearly level and the soil fertile. Wauseon is the county seat. Guernsey county was organized in March, 1810. It produces wheat,, corn and oats. Cambridge is the county seat and was laid out in June, 1806. Mr. Graham was the first settler on the site of the town and his was the only dwelling between Lancaster and Wheeling. The first cannel coal found in the county was discovered near Mill's creek. Greene county was formed May i, 1803, from Hamilton and Ross. It produces wheat, corn, lye, grass seed, oats, barley, sheep and swine. The Shawnee town was on the Little Miami and was visited by Capt. Thomas Bullitt in 1773. When Daniel Boone was captured in 1778, he was brought to- this town and escaped the following year. General Clark invaded this county and the Indians reduced the town to ashes. Xenia, the county seat,, was laid off in the forest in 1803 by Joseph C. Vance. , The first cabin was erected in April, 1804, by John Marshall. The Rev. James Fowler built the first hewed-log cabin. David A. Sanders, built the first frame house. Nine miles north of the town on the Little Miami river are the Yellow Springs,, which are impregnated with sulphur. Geauga county was formed in 1805 from Trumbull. It is situated at the head of Chargrine, Cuyahoga and a part of Grand rivers, on high ground and is subjected to snow storms more frequently than any other part of the reserve. Its first settlement was made in 1798 at Burton. Chardon is four- teen miles from Lake Erie and is six hundred feet above it. It was laid out as the county seat in 1808. GaUia county was formed April 30, 1803, from Washington. The .sur- face is generally broken. Its first settlement was made in 1791 by a French colony at Gallipolis. This colony was sent out under the auspices of the Scioto Company. This town is now the county seat. Hamilton county was the second established in the Northwest Terri- tory by proclamation of Governor St. Clair, January 2, 1790. Its surface is generally rolling. It produces the ordinary farm products and a great variety of fruits and vegetables for the Cincinnati market. This county was the second settled in Ohio and the first within the Symmes Purchase. Settlers arrived at the spot now occupied by Cincinnati and three or four log cabins were erected. Gen. Arthur St. Clair arrived here in January, 1790. The army of Wayne encamped here later, at Fort Washington. Mr. Maxwell established, in 1793, the Sentinel of the Northwestern Territory, the first newspaper printed north of the Ohio river. In 1796 Edward Freeman be- came its proprietor and changed the name to Freeman's Journal. January PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. (i-J II, 1794, two keel-boats sailed from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh, making regu- lar trijjs every four weeks. In 1801 the first sea vessel built at Marietta came dovi^n the Ohio. Cincinnati, the county seat, was incorporated January 2, 1802. It was chartered as a city in 1819. The city is beautifully laid out and delightfully situated. Its public buildings are elegant and substantial, includ- ing the court house and many literary and charitable institutions. Cincinnati is a large manufacturing city and possesses fine water-power facilities. It communicates with the world by means of the Ohio river, rail- ways and electric lines. North Bend is another prominent town in this county, having been the residence of Gen. William H. Harrison' and the site of his burial place. The town was of considerable importance in the early settlement of the state. About thirty yards from Harrison's tomb is the grave of Judge Symmes. Hancock county was formed April i, 1820. The surface is level and its soil is fertile. Blanchard's Fork waters the central and southern part of the county. Findlay, the county seat, was laid out by ex-Governor Joseph Vance and Elnathan Corry in 1821. It was relaid in 1829. William Vance settled there in the fall of 182 1. Hancock county has extensive gas and oil fields. Hardin county was formed April i, 1820, from the old Indian Terri- tory. A portion of the surface is level and the remainder undulating. Fort McArthur was built on the Scioto river but proved a weak stockade. Kenton is the county seat, situated on the Scioto river. Harrison county was formed from Jefferson and Tuscarawas, January I, 1814. The surface is hilly, abounding in coal and limestone. Its soil is clayey. In April, 1799, Alexander Henderson and family settled in this county, and at the same time Daniel Peterson and his family resided at the forks of Short creek. The early settlers were much annoyed by Indians and wild beasts. Cadiz is the county seat and was laid out in 1803 and 1804 by Messrs. Briggs and Beatty. Henry county was formed from the old Indian Territory April i, 1820. Indian corn, oats, potatoes and maple sugar constitute the main products. The county is well supplied with running streams and the soil is unusually rich. The soil is superior for grain. Fruit thrives and all varieties of vege- tables are produced in large quantities. Simon Girty, notorious for his wicked career, resided in this county. Girty led the attack on Fort Henry in September, 1777. He demanded the surrender of the fort, and menaced its inmates with an Indian massacre in case of refusal. The action began, but the fort gained the victory. He led a ferocious band of Indians and com- gg PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. mitted the most fiendish atrocities. Napoleon, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee river. Highland county was formed in May, 1805, from Ross, Adams and Clermont. It is a wealthy, productive county. Its first settlement began in 1801, at New Market by Oliver Ross, Robert Keeston, George W. Barrere, Bernard Weyer and others. Simon Kenton made a trace through this county in early times. Hillsboro is the county seat and was laid out in 1807 by David Hays on the land of Benjamin Ellicott. It is situated on the dividing ridge between the Miami and Scioto. The Hillsboro Academy was founded in 1827. Hocking county was fomied March i, 181 8, from Ross, Athens and Fairfield. Its surface is broken and hilly, but is level and fertile beside the streams. The Wyandots once occupied this tract and built a large town herein. In 1798 a few white families ventured to settle. Logan is its county seat and is situated on the Hocking river. Holmes county was formed from Coshocton, Tuscarawas and Wayne January 20, 1824. The southwestern portion is broken. Thomas Butler was the first settler in 181 o. Millersburg is the county seat and was laid out in 1830. This is an excellent agricultural county. Huron county was organized in 181 5. Norwalk is the county seat. Jackson county was organized March, 1816. The country is rich in minerals and abounds in coal and iron ore. Jackson, the county seat, was laid out in 181 7. The old Scioto salt works were among the first worked in Ohio by the whites. Prior to this period the Indians came some distance to this section to make salt. When Daniel Boone was a prisoner he spent some time at these works. Jefferson county was proclaimed by Governor St. Clair July 29, 1797, and was the fifth county established in Ohio. Its resources in coal are also extensive. The surface is hilly and the soil fertile, producing wheat, corn and oats. The old "Mingo" town was on the present farms of Jeremiah Hallock and Daniel Potter. The troops of Colonel Williamson ren- dezvoused at this point when they set out in their cruel Moravian campaign and also the troops of Colonel Crawford, when they started on the campaign against the Sandusky Indians. Here Logan, the powerful and manly chief of the Mingo nation, once resided. He took no active part in the old French war, which closed in 1760, except that of a peacemaker. He was a stanch friend of the whites until the abominable and unprovoked murder of his father, brother and sister, which occurred in 1774 near the Yellow creek. He then raised the battle cry and sought revenge. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 69 However, Logan was remarkably magnanimous toward prisoners who fell into his hands. The year 1793 was the last spent in Indian warfare in Jefferson county. Fort Steuben was erected on the present site of Steuben- ville, the county seat, in 1789. It was constructed of block-houses, with paHsade fences and was dismantled during Wayne's campaign. Bezaleel Wells and Hon. James Ross laid the town out in 1798. It was incorporated February 14, 1805. It was situated upon an elevated plain. In 18 14 Messrs. Wells and Dickerson built a woolen manufactory and introduced Merino sheep to the county. Knox county was formed March i, 1808, from Fairfield. It is drained by the Vernon river. Mount Vernon was laid out in 1805. The early settlers found two wells on the Vernon river built of hammered stone, neatly laid, and near by was a salt-lick. Their direct origin remains a mystery. Gilman Bryant, in 1807, opened the first store in Mount Vernon. The Indians came to Mount Vernon in large numbers for the purpose of trading in furs and cranberries. Each Saturday the settlers worked on the streets, extracting stumps and improving the highway. The first settler north of the place was N. M. Young, who built his cabin in 1803. Mount Vernon is now the county seat, beautifully situated on Vernon river. Kenyon College is located at Gambler. This institution was established under the auspices of Bishop Chase in July, 1826, in the center of a four-thousand-acre tract belonging to Kenyon College. It was chartered as a theological seminary. Lucas county is of comparatively recent origin. This county 'is situated in the Maumee valley, which was the great arena of historical events. The frightful battle of Wayne's campaign, where the Indians found the British to be traitors, was fought near Fort Miami in this county. Maumee City was laid out in 181 7 by Major William Oliver and others. It is situated on the Maumee at the head of navigation. The surface is one hundred feet above the water level. This town, with Perrysburg, its neighbor, is exceedingly picturesque and was in early times frequented by the Indians. The French had a trading post at this point in 1680, and in 1794 the British Fort Miami was built. Toledo, the county seat, is on the left bank of the Maumee and covers the site of a stockade fort, known as Fort Industry, erected in 1800. An Indian treaty was concluded here July 4, 1805, by which the Indians re- linquished all rights to the "fire lands." In 1832 Capt. Samuel Allen gave an impetus to the place and Major Stickney also became interested in its ad- vancement. Speculation in lots began in 1834. The Wabash & Erie canal interest arose in 1836. Mr. Mason and Edward Bissel added their energies to assist the growth of the town. It was incorporated as a city in 1836. It 70 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. was the center of the miHtary operations in the "Ohio and Michigan war," known as the "boundary conflict." Lorain county was formed from Huron, Cuyahoga and Medina on December 26, 1822. The soil is generally fertile and the surface level. A curious relic has been found in this county, bearing the date of 1533. Elyria is the county seat and was laid out in 181 7. The first settler was Heman Ely. Oberlin is situated about eight miles southwest of Elyria. Oberlin College has attained a wide reputation. Logan county was formed March i, 181 7. The surface is broken and hilly near the Mad river, but is generally level. The Shawnee Indians were destroyed in 1786 by a body of Kentuckians under Gen. Benjamin Logan. The whites surprised the towns. However, they returned after the work of destruction had been completed and for many years frequented the section. On the site of Zanesfield was a Wyandot village. By the treaty of September 29, 1817, the Senecas and Shawnees held a reservation around Lewistown. April 6, 1832, they vacated this right and removed west. Isaac Zane was born about the year 1753 and was, while a boy, captured and afterward adopted by the Wyandots. Attaining the age of manhood, he had no desire to return to his people. He married a Wyandot woman, who was half French. After the treaty of Greenville he bought one thousand eight hun- dred acres on the site of Zanesfield, where he lived until the year 18 16, when he died, lamented by all his friends. Logan county was settled about the year 1806. During the War of 1812 it was a rendezvous for friendly Indians. Belief ontaine, the county seat, was laid out March 18, 1820, on land owned by John Tulles and William Powell. Joseph Gordon built a cabin and An- thony Ballard erected the first frame dweUing'. Gen. Simon Kenton is buried at the head of Mad river, five miles from Bellefontaine. He died April 29, 1836, aged eighty-one years and twenty-six days. This remarkable man came west to Kentucky in 1771. He probably encountered more thrilling escapes than any other man of his time. In 1778 he was captured and suf- fered extreme cruelties and was ransomed by the British. He soon recovered his robust health and escaped from Detroit the following spring. He settled in Urbana in 1802. He was commissioned brigadier-general of the militia and in the War of 1812 joined General Harrison's army. In the year 1820 he removed to Mad river. General Vance and Judge Burnet secured him a pension of twenty dollars a month. Licking county was formed from Fairfield March i, 1808. The surface is generally level, diversified by slight hills in the eastern portion. Coal and iron ore of good quality add to the wealth of the county. Newark is the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 7^ county seat, and is situated at the confluence of the three principal branches of the Licking-. In 1801 it was laid out by Gen. William C. Schenk, George W. Burnet and John M. Cummings, who owned this military section of four thousand acres. In 1802 Samuel Elliott and Samuel Parr built hewed-log houses. The picturesque "Narrows of the Licking" are in the eastern part of the county. Within the county are ancient fortifications, the most noted in the state of Ohio, containing about three hundred acres. The engineering is of the best and the works have frequently been visited by European scientists. The breastworks are lined with old trees and the trenches are now great canals. Lawrence county was organized March i, 1816. There are many high and abi-upt hills in this section, which abound in sand and freestone. It is rich in minerals and the most important section of Ohio for iron manufac- ture. Coal is abundant and white clay exists in the western part suitable fo'r pottery purposes. The county was settled m 1797 by the Dutch and Irish. The iron region extends through the west part of this county. Ironton is the county seat. Lake county was formed from Geauga and Cuyahoga March 6, 1840. The soil is good and the surface rolling. As early as 1799 a settlement was formed at Mentor. Painesville, the county seat, is situated on Grand river in a beautiful valley. Painesville was laid out by Henry Champion in 1805. At Fairport the first warehouse in this section and probably the first on the lake, was built by Abraham Skinner in 1803. This town has a fine harbor and has a light-house and beacon. Kirtland, southwest from Painesville, was, in 1834, the headquarters of the Mormons. At that time they numbered about three thousand. The old Mormon temple is of rough stone, plastered over, colored blue, and marked to imitate regular courses of masonry. Madison county was organized in March, 1810. The surface is gener- ally level. Jonathan Alder was much interested in the settlement of the county. Captured when a child, he had lived with the Indians many years and had formed a lasting affection for them, and he married a squaw. He became dissatisfied with his Indian wife and this caused him to look up his own family. He succeeded through the assistance of John Moore. He left his Indian wife and joined his people. This county was first settled in 1795. Benjamin Springer made a clear- ing and built a cabin. Joshua Ewing brought four sheep to this place and the Indians exhibited great astonishment over these strange animals. When the hostilities of 1812 began, the British offered inducements to the Indians to join them and they consuUed Alder regarding the best policy to adopt. He advised them to presence neutrality until a later period, which they did, and 'J2 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. eventually became firm friends of the Americans. London is the county seat and was laid out in 1810-11 by Patrick McLane. Marion county was organized March i, 1824. The soil is fertile and produces extensive farm crops. The Delaware Indians once held a reserva- tion here and conceded their claims August 3, 1829, and then removed west of the Mississippi. Marion, the county seat, was laid out in 182 1 by Eber Baker and Alexander Holmes. General Harrison marched through this sec- tion during his campaign. Mahoning county was formed in 1846 from Trumbull and Columbiana. The surface is rolling and the soil generally fertile. Bituminous coal and iron are found in large quantities. Col. James Hillman came to the Western Reserve in 1786. The settlement of the county went forward. Yotmgstown is the county seat. Medina county was formed from the Western Reserve February 12, 18 1 2. The surface is rolling and the soil is fertile, producing fine agricul- tural products. The first trail through the county was made by George Poe, Joseph H. Larwell and Roswell M. Mason. The first settlement was made by Joseph Harris in 181 1. He was soon joined by the Burr Brothers. Medina is the county seat. Meigs county was formed from Gallia and Athens April i, 1819. The general character of the soil is clayey, producing large quantities of wheat, oats, corn, hay and potatoes. Pomeroy, the county seat, is situated under a lofty hill, surrounded by picturesque scenery. Nathaniel Clark was the first settler of the county. He arrived in 1816. The first coal mine opened in Pomeroy was in 181 9 by David Bradshaw. Mercer county was formed from the Indian Territor)/- in 1820. The sur- face is generally flat. St. Clair's battle was fought on the boundary line be- tween this and Darke county. Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur made a treaty on St. Mary's with the Wyandots, Shawnees and Ottawas in 18 18. The odious Simon Girty lived at one time at St. Mary's. Wayne built St. Mary's fort on the. west bank of the river. John Whistler was the last com- mander of the fort. The largest artificial lake in the world, so it is asserted, is formed by the reservoir supplying the St. Mary's feeder of the Miami Ex- tension Canal. It is about nine miles long and from two to four broad. Celina is the county seat. Miami county was formed January 16, 1807, from Montg-omery. It abounds in excellent limestone and possesses remarkable water-power facili- ties. Its agricultural products rank high in quality and quantity. John Knoop came into this section about the year 1797 and its first settlement PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 73. began about this time. Troy, the county seat, is situated upon the Great Miami. Piqua is the largest city in the county. Monroe county was formed January 29, 1813, from Belmont, Wash- ington and Guernsey. A portion of its surface is abrupt and hilly. Large quantities of tobacco are raised. Iron ore and coal abound. The valleys of the streams are very narrow, bounded by rough hills. In some places are natural rock grottoes. The first settlement was made in 1799 near the mouth- of the Sunfish. At this time wolves were numerous and caused much alarm. Volney entered this county but was not prepossessed in its favor. One town- ship was settled by the Swiss. Woodsfield is the county seat. Montgomery county was" formed from Ross and Hamilton May_ i, 1803. The soil is fertile and its agricultural products are most excellent. Quarries of grayish-white limestone are found east of the Miami. Dayton is the county seat, situated on the Great Miami at the mouth of Mad river. A company was formed in 1788, but Indian wars prevented settlement. After Wayne's treaty in 1795, a new company was foiTned. It advanced rapidly between the years 1812 and 1820. The beginning of the Miami canal re- newed its prosperity in 1827. The first canal-boat from Cincinnati arrived at Dayton on the 25th of January, 1829. The first one arrived from Lake Erie in June, 1845. Col. Robert Patterson came to Dayton in 1804. At one time he owned Lexington, Kentucky, and about one-third of Cincinnati. Morgan county was organized in 18 18, March i. The surface is hilly and the soil strong and fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. Pork is a prolific product and considerable salt is made. The first settlement was made in 1790 on the Muskingum. McConnelsville is the county seat. Mr. Ayres made the first attempt to produce salt in 18 17. Morrow county was organized in 1848. It is drained by the Vernon river, which rises in it, by the East Branch of the Olentangy or Whetstone river, and by Walnut creek. The surface is undulating and the soil fertile. The staple products are corn, wheat, oats, hay, wool and butter. Mount Gilead, the county seat, is situated on the East Branch of the Olentangy river. Muskingum county was formed frorn Washington and Fairfield. The surface is rolling or hilly. It produces wheat, com, oats, potatoes, tobacco, wool and pork. Large quantities of bituminous coal are found. Salt is made in large quantities — the fine being obtained from a stratum of whitish sandstone. The Wyandots, Delawares, Senecas and Shawnees Indians once inhabited this section. An Indian town occupied the site of Duncan's Falls. A large Shawnee town was located near Dresden. Zanesville is the county 74 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. seat, situated opposite the mouth of the Licking. It was laid out in 1799 by Mr. Zane and Mr. Mclntire. This is one of the principal towns in the state. Noble county, organized in 185 1, is drained by Seneca, Duck and Wills creeks. The surface is undulating and a large part of it is covered with for- ests. The soil is fertile. Among its mineral resources are limestone, coal and petroleum. Near Caldwell, the county seat, are found iron ore, coal and salt. Ottawa county was formed from Erie, Sandusky and Lucas March 6, 1840. It was very thinly settled before 1830. Extensive plaster beds exist ■on the peninsula, which extends into Lake 'Erie. It has also large lime- stone quarries, which are extensively worked. The very first trial at arms upon the soil of Ohio, during the War of 1812, occurred upon this peninsula. Port Clinton, the county seat, was laid out in 1827. Perry county was formed from Washington, Fairfield and Muskingum March i, 1817. Fine tobacco is raised in large quantities. Wheat, corn, oats, hay, cattle, pork and wool add to the general wealth. This county was first settled in 1801. The first settler was Christian Binckley, who built the first cabin in the county, about five miles west of Somerset, near the present county line. New Lexington is the county seat. Paulding county was formed from old Indian Territory August i, 1820. It is very rich in agriculture and produces corn, wheat, sugar beets and oats. Paulding is the county seat. Pickaway county was formed from Fairfield, Ross and Franklin January 12, 1810. The county has woodland, barren, plain and prairie. The barrens were covered by shrub oaks and when cleared are adapted to the raising of corn and oats. The Pickaway plains are three and a half miles west of Cir- cleville and this tract is said to contain the richest land in Ohio. Here, in the olden times, burned the great council fires of the red man. Here the allied tribes met General Lewis, who fought the battle of Point Pleasant. Dun- more's campaign was terminated on these plains. It was at the Chillicothe towns, after Dunmore's treaty, that Logan delivered his famous speech. Circleville, the county seat, is situated on the Scioto river and the Ohio canal. It was laid out in 1810 by Daniel Dresbach. It is situated on the site of ancient fortifications. Portage county was formed June 7, 1807, from Trumbull. It is a wealthy, thriving section. It also produces wheat, corn, oats, barley, buck- wheat, rye, butter and wool. Ravenna is' the county seat and was originally settled by the Hon. Benjamin Tappen in June, 1799. In 1806 an unpleasant difficulty arose between the settlers and a camp of Indians in Deerfield, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 75 caused by a horse trade between a white man and an Indian. David Daniels settled on the site of Palmyra in 1799. Pike county was organized in 181 5. The surface is generally hilly, which abounds with freestone, which is exported in large quantities for build- ing purposes. Rich bottom lands extend along the Scioto and its tributaries. John Nolan and the three Chenoweth brothers settled on the Pee Pee prairie about 1796. Piketown, the former county seat, was laid out about 181 4. Waverly, the present county seat, is situated on the Scioto river. Preble county was formed March i, 1808, from Montgomery and But- ler. The soil is varied. Eaton, the county seat, was laid out in 1806, by William Bruce, who owned the land. An overflowing well of strong sulphur water is near the town, while directly beside it is a limestone quarry. Holder- man's quarry is about two miles distant, from which is obtained a beautifully clouded gray stone. Fort St. Clair was built near Eaton in the winter of 1791-92. General Harrison was an ensign at the time and commanded a guard every other night for three weeks during the building. The severe -battle of November 6, 1792, was fought under its very guns. Little Turtle, a distinguished chief of the Miamis, roamed over this county for a time. He was witty, brave and earnest and, although engaged in several severe con- tests with the whites, he was inclined toward peace. But when his warriors cried for war he led them bravely. Putnam county was formed April i, 1820, from old Indian Territory. The soil is fertile, its principal productions being wheat, corn, potatoes and ■oats. Kalida, once the county seat, was laid out in 1834. Ottawa is the -county seat. Ross county was formed August 20, 1798, hy the proclamation of Governor St. Clair and was the ninth county formed in the Northwest Territory. The Scioto river and Paint creek run through it, bordered with fertile lands. It exports cattle and hogs. The Rev. Robert W. Finley, in 1794, addressed a letter of inquiry to Col. Nathaniel Massie, as many of his .associates had designed settling in the new state. This resulted in packing their several effects and setting out. A trivial Indian encounter was the -only interruption they met with on their way. After Wayne's treaty, Colonel Massie and many of these early explorers met again and formed a settle- ment — in 1796 — at the mouth of Paint creek. In August of this year, Chilli- cothe was laid out by Colonel Massie in a dense forest. He donated lots to the early settlers. A ferry was established over the Scioto and the opening 'of Zane's trace assisted the progress of settlement. Chillicothe, the county :seat, is situated on the Scioto. Its site is thirty feet above the river. In 76 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1800 it was the seat of the Northwest territorial government. It was in- corporated as a city in January, 1802. During the War of 1812, the city was a rendezvous for the United States troops. A large number of British, were at one time guarded here. Adena is a beautiful place .and the seat of Governor Worthington's mansion, which was built in 1806. Richland was organized March i, 1813. It was settled about 1809 on branches of the Mohican. Two block-houses were built in 18 12. Mansfield, the county seat, is charmingly situated and was laid out in 1808 by Jacob Newman, James Hedges and Joseph H. Larwell. The county was at that period a vast wilderness, destitute of roads. From this year the settlement progressed rapidly. Sandusky county was formed April i, 1820, from the old Indian Terri- tory. The soil is fertile and country generally level. Near Lower Sandusky lived a band of Wyandots, called the Neutral Nation. They preserved their peacemaking attributes through the Iroquois conflicts. Freemont, form- erly called Lower Sandusky, the county seat, is situated at the head of navi- gation on the Sandusky on the site of the old reservation grant to the Indians, at the Greenville treaty council. Fort Stephenson was erected in August, 1813, and was gallantly defended by Colonel Croghan. Summit county was formed March 3, 1840, from Medina, Portage and Stark. The soil is fertile and produces excellent fruit, besides large crops of corn, wheat, hay, oats and potatoes. The first settlement made in the county was at Hudson in 1800. The old Indian portage-paths, extending through this county, between the Cuyahoga and Tuscarawas branch of the Musk- ingum. This was a part of the ancient boundary between the Six Nations and the Western Indians. Akron, the county seat, is situated on the portage sum- mit. It was laid out in 1825. In 1811 Paul Williams and Amos and Minor Spicer settled in this vicinity. Middlebury was laid out in 1818 by Norton and Hart. Starke county was formed February 13, 1808. It is a rich agricultural county. It has large quantities of mineral coal and iron ore. Limestone and extensive beds of lime-marl exist. Frederick Post, the first Moravian missionary in Ohio, settled here in 1761. Canton is the county seat, situated in the forks of the Nimishillen, a tributary of the Muskingum. It was laid out in 1806, by Bezaleel Wells, who owned the land. Massillon was laid out in March, 1826, by John Duncan. Shelby county was formed in 1819, from Miami. The southern por- tion is undulating, arising in some places to hills. Through the north it is a flat table-land. The first point of English settlement in Ohio was at the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. T"] mouth of Laramie's creek in this county as early as 1752. Fort Laramie was built in 1794 by Wayne. The first white family that settled in this county was that of James Thatcher in 1804. Sidney, the county seat, was laid out in 18 19 on the farm of Charles Starrett. Seneca county was formed April i, 1820, from the old Indian Territory. Fort Seneca was built during the War of 18 12. The Senecas owned forty thousand acres of land on the Sandusky river, mostly in Seneca county. Thirty thousand acres of this land was granted to them in 181 7 at the treaty held at the foot of the Maumee Rapids. The remaining ten thousand was granted the following year. These Indians ceded this tract, however, to the government in 183 1. It was asserted by an old chief that this band was the remnant of Logan's tribe. Tiffin, the county seat, was laid out by Josiah Hedges in the year 1821. Scioto county was formed May i, 1803. It is a good agricultural sec- tion, besides producing iron ore, coal and freestone. It is said that a French fort stood at the mouth of the old Scioto as early as 1740. In 1785 four families settled where Portsmouth now stands. Thomas McDonald built the first cabin in the county. The French grant was located in this section — a tract comprising twenty-four thousand acres. The grant was made in March, 1795. Portsmouth, the county seat, is located upon the Ohio. Trumbull county was formed in 1800. The original Connecticut West- ern Reserve was within its limits. The county is well cultivated and very -wealthy. Coal is found in its northern portion. Warren, the county seat, is situated on the Mahoning river. It was laid out by Ephraim Quinby in t8oi. Mr. Quinby owned the soil. His cabin was buih here in 1799. In August, 1800, while Mr. McMahon was away from home, a party of drunken Indians called at the house, abused the family, struck a child a severe blow with a tomahawk and threatened to kill the family. Mrs. McMahon could not send tidings which could reach her husband before noon the following day. The following Sunday morning, fourteen men and two boys, armed themselves and went to the Indian camp to settle the difficulty. Quinby advanced alone, leaving the remainder in concealment, as he was better ac- ■quainted with these people, to make inquiries and ascertain their intentions. He did not return at once and the party set out, marched into camp and found Quinby arguing with Captain George, the chief. Captain George snatched his tomahawk and declared war, rushing forward to kill McMahon. But a bullet from the frontiersman's gun killed him instantly, while Storey shot "Spotted John" at the same time. The Indians then fled. They joined the council at Sandusky. Quinby garrisoned his house. Fourteen days 78 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. thereafter the Indians returned with overtures of peace, which were, that McMahon and Storey be taken to Sandusky, tried by Indian laws, and if found guilty punished by them. This could not be done. McMahon was tried by General St. Clair and the matter was settled. The first missionary on the reserve was the Rev. Joseph Badger. Tuscarawas county Avas fomied February 15, 1808, from Muskingum It is well cultivated with abundant supplies of coal and iron. The first white settlers were Moravian missionaries, their first visits dating back to 1761. The first permanent settlement was made in 1803. Mary Heckewelder, the daughter of a missionary, was born in this county April 16, 1781. Fort Laurens was built during the Revolution. It was the scene of a fearful car- nage. It was established in the fall of 1778 and placed under the command of General Mcintosh. New Philadelphia is the county seat, situated on the Tuscarawas. It was laid out in 1804 by John Knisely. A German colony settled in this county in 181 7, driven from their native land by religious persecutions. They called themselves Separatists. They are good people, strictly moral and honest. Union county was formed from Franklin, Delaware, Logan and Madi- son in 1820. Extensive limestone quarries are also valuable. The Ewing brothers made the first white settlement in 1798. Col. James Curry, a mem- ber of the State Legislature, was the chief instigator in the progress of this section. He located within its limits and remained until his death, which occurred in 1834. Marys ville is the county seat. Van Wert county was formed from the old Indian Territory April i, 1820. Van Wert, the county seat, was founded by James W. Riley in 1837. An Indian town had formerly occupied its site. Captain Riley was the first white man who settled in the county, arriving in 1S21. He founded Will- shire in 1822. Vinton county was organized in 1850. It is drained by Raccoon and Salt creeks. The surface is undulating or hilly. Bituminous coal and iron ore are found. McArthur is the county seat. Washington county was formed by proclamation of Governor St. Clair July 27, 1788, and was the first county founded within the limits of Ohio. The surface is broken with extensive tracts of level, fertile land. It was the first county settled in the state under the auspices of the Ohio Company. A detachment of United States troops, under the command of Major John Doughty, built Fort Harmar in 1785 and it was the first militai7 post estab- lished in Ohio by Americans, with the exception of Fort Laurens, which was erected in 1778. It was occupied by United States troops until 1790, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 79 when they were ordered to Connecticut. A company under Captain Haskell remained. In 1785 the directors of the Ohio Company began practical opera- tions and settlement went forward rapidly. Campus Martins, a stockade fort, was completed in 1791. This formed a sturdy stronghold during the war. During the Indian war there was much suffering in the county. Many settlers were killed and captured. Marietta is the county seat and the oldest town in Ohio. Marietta College was chartered in 1835. Herman Blenner- hassett, whose unfortunate association with Aaron Burr proved fatal to him- self, was a resident of Marietta in 1796. Warren county was formed May i, 1803, from Hamilton. The soil is- very fertile and considerable water power is furnished by its streams. Mr. Bedell made the first settlement in 1795. Lebanon is the county seat. Henry Taylor settled in this vicinity in 1796. Union Village is a settlement of Shakers. They came here about 1805. Wayne county was proclaimed by Governor St. Clair, August 15, 1796, and was the sixth county in the Northwest Territory. The settlement of this section has already been briefly delineated, ^^"ooster is the county seat. It was laid out during the fall of 1808, by John Beaver, William Henry and Joseph H. Larwell, owners of the land. Its site is three hundred and thirty- seven feet above Lake Erie. The first mill was built by Joseph Stibbs in 1809, on Apple creek. In 181 2 a block-house was erected in Wooster. Wood county was formed from the old Indian Territory in 1820. The soil is rich and large crops are produced. The county is situated within the Maumee valley. It was the arena of brilliant military exploits during early times. Bowling Green is the county seat. Williams county was formed April i, 1820, from the old Indian Terri- tory. Bryan is the county seat. It was laid out in 1840. Wyandot county was formed February 3, 1845, from Marion, Hardin, Hancock and Crawford. The surface is level and the soil fertile. The Wyandot Indians frequented this section. It was the scene of Crawford's defeat in June, 1782, and his fearful death. By the treaty of 1817, Hon. Lewis Cass and Hon. Duncan McArthur, United States commissioners, granted to the Indians a reservation twelve miles square, the central point being Fort Ferree. The Delaware reserve was ceded to the United States in 1829. The Wyandots ceded theirs March 17, 1842. The United States commissioner was Col. John Johnson, who thus made the last Indian treaty in Ohio. Every foot of this state was fairly purchased by treaties. The Wyandots were ex- ceedingly brave and several of their chiefs were men of exalted moral. principles. 8o PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Upper Sandusky is the county seat and was laid out in 1843. General Harrison had built Ferree on this spot during the War of 1812. Governor Meigs, in 1813, encamped near the river with several thousand of the Ohio militia. The Indian village of Crane Town was originally called Upper Sandusky. The Indians transferred their town, after the death of Tarhe, to Upper Sandusky. CHAPTER 11. TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY. The topography of the land embraced within the county of Putnam is different in some respects from that of the other counties in this part of the state. Although it is uniformly flat, its numerous rivers and streams af- ford excellent drainage, while a complex system of artificial drainage has brought practically all of the county under cultivation. The rivers and streams are bordered in many cases with high bluffs on one side or the other and these elevations serve to^ break the monotony of the prairies. Most of the soil of the county is alluvial in formation and is, in many cases, composed of muck, which, in some townships, is mixed with sand and, in others, with clay. The soil is generally very prolific of all kinds of agricultural products pecvtliar to this section of Ohio, and in very few instances is it necessary to use fertilizers in order to secure excellent crops. In many places in the county the land was once covered with water and dense aquatic vegetation. Such land has been termed muck land and, after being well drained, makes very productive soil. Early in the history of the county much of the land was covered with swamps and it was many years before the county was brought to its present high state of cultivation. At the present time about all the land of the county which is not under cultivation is in the beds of the rivers and streams and in that which makes up the public highways. Most of the first settlers located along the streams, not only because they afforded an easy access to the outside world, but also because the land bordering them was easier to cultivate. During the past half century thousands of miles of ditches have been put into operation within the county and the once impenetrable swamps now comprise as fine farming land as may be found in any part of the United States. Throughout the county, moraines, or ridges of earth higher than the ad- jacent land, are found in abundance. These moraines are composed of sand and are covered with an alluvial soil, which is black in appearance, but fre- quently heavily mixed with clay. These moraines are supposed to have been formed during the glacial period by the receding waters of the lake, which, geologists claim, covered the entire northwestern part of Ohio. As this 6 82 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. theory of the formation of the moraines has never been questioned, it may be taken as a fact. The various rivers and creeks throughout the county have a trend toward the north and all drainage of the county eventually finds its way inta the Maumee river. The several streams of the county may be briefly men- tioned as follows : The Auglaize river, or All Glaise or Gaud Glaise, is one of the largest tributaries of the Maumee river. With its many tributaries, the Auglaize drains the greater part of the county. The name of the river betrays its French origin and may be traced back to the time of the occupancy by that nation. The Ottawa river, familiarly known as Hog creek, was named in honor of the Ottawa Indians who formerly lived within the present limits of this county. The- name. Hog creek, seems to have been applied as the result of an interesting incident which happened many years ago. In the Putnam county history by George Skinner, the author explains the origin of the name Hog creek as follows: "While the English had possession of Fort iMiami in the Maumee river, parties on that river undertook to supply them with pork. In driving a lot of hogs to the fort they were compelled to cross the Ottawa river, which, at that particular time, was unfortunately very high. The men driving the hogs became frightened at the hostile demonstrations of some Indians whom they encountered along the Ottawa, and, evidently thinking that the Indians were about to attempt to capture some of the hogs, drove part of the porkers into the river. Some of the hogs reached the other side safely, others swam back to the shore from which they started, while still others were drowned in the river. The owners finally abandoned the hogs to their fate, returned home, and from that day forward the Ottawa river has often been called Hog creek." Blanchard river was formerly known as the North Fork of the Auglaize. It was renamed the Blanchard in honor of a man by that name who is said to have been the first white man to have traded with the Indians up and down the river. He bought their furs and other articles which they had to dis- pose of and in return doled out to the savages meager portions of powder, beads and such trinkets as were usually handled by the early traders. Sugar creek derives its name from the fact that in its early history its banks were lined with sugar maple trees. The Indians were wont to repair to the banks of this beautiful little stream every spring for the purpose of making maple sugar, and, after the Indians left, the white men made good use of the many thousands of trees along the river bank. PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. 83 Riley creek was originally called Deer creek, from the fact that deer abounded in great numbers along its banks in the early history of the county. It was a favorite hunting ground for the Indians, who knew it as Deer creek long before the white man ever saw it. The surveyors who worked in this county in 1820 designated it as Deer creek. The name Riley was applied to the creek in later years, in honor of James Watson Riley, one of the early surveyors of Putnam county. The story is handed down through the years that Riley once nearly lost his life in trying to ford the creek and did actually lose his surveying instruments. His tripod was never found and it is doubt- less resting quietly in the bottom of the stream to this day. Jennings creek received its name in honor of Colonel Jennings, who, in 1812, built a stockade on the Auglaize where the prosperous little village of Ft. Jennings now stands. This same sterling old pioneer left his name on the township in which the town of Ft. Jennings is situated. Plum creek, as the name indicates, was so named because of the abun- dance of plum trees which formerly grew along its banks. Fruit of any kind was very scarce in the early days and a wild plum was much better than no plum at all. The Indians were fond of this fruit and every fall visited the creek in order to feast on the delicacy. Leatherwood creek was named by some of the early surveyors from the fact that its banks were lined with this bush. The pioneers had occa- sion to resort to the banks of Leatherwood creek frequently for their har- ness equipment. The tough bark of this bush made an excellent substitute for leather and many an acre of Putnam county land has been plowed the first time by teams using leatherwood harness. Cranberry creek derived its name from the bush of that name. The succulent cranberry once grew in profusion along the banks of this creek, but has long since disappeared, with the beaver, its best friend. MINERAL RESOURCES OF THE COUNTY. Putnam county is pre-eminently an agricultural county and finds its greatest wealth in its thousands of fertile acres. While the greater portion of the county is a black loam, there are parts of the county where there are fine clay deposits. As a result there are found many tile and brick factories in the county and the swampy character of the county has made the tile in- dustry a very profitable one. In many parts of the county limestone deposits occur and a number of §4 PUTNAM COUNTYj OHIO. quarries have been opened, which furnish excellent macadamizing material, as well as stone far many other purposes. In Sugar Creek and Pleasant .townships there is a small deposit of yellow clay, but not enough to make it of any commercial value. Through- out the county there are numerous springs of white sulphur, yellow sulphur and limestone water. The medicinal qualities of some of these springs make them of undoubted therapeutic value and in the coming years some enter- prising man will find a fortune in this medicine prepared by Dame Nature. In almost every township in the county wells have been driven for oil and gas, but, while both have been found in limited quantities, the yield has not been sufficient to make the operation of wells a profitable venture. CHAPTER III. INDIANS IN PUTNAM COUNTY. INDIAN MOUNDS. The artificial mounds in Putnam county are few in number and much smaller than those in the counties in the southern part of the state, where such mounds are numerous, large in circumference and much greater in height. In fact, throughout the northern part of the state there are no mounds of great altitude. The reason of this may be explained by the fact that the surface of the ground is level and the purposes for which the mounds were built did not exist to an extent requiring greater height in their construction. While this difference exists between the northern and south- ern parts of this state, there are many features connected with them which are very similar in the matter of construction, location and the contents un- earthed by excavation. In this county only five of these mounds are known to be in existence and in investigating the contents, obtained by tunneling and digging to their base, the same features are demonstrated as have char- acterized such investigations of many of the larger and smaller mounds in the southern half of the state. Here, as well as in southern Ohio, the mounds were not all constructed of the same soil as immediately surrounds them. The soil constituting the interior of these mounds is usually of an alluvial nature and was in some manner conveyed to the place at which the mound was erected. In some instances the soil used was the same as only to be found a thousand feet from the mound. The inside of these mounds was usually constructed of sand and loam, while the outside was covered with clay to the depth of nearly two feet. This clay was so impervious to frost and water that the elements, for ages, have made but little impression on the clay soil. In tunneling these mounds the same features existed in all of them. In the center of each mound, about eighteen inches deeper than the surrounding surface of the ground, there was found charred wood, frag- ments of calcined stone and bones of animals, all of which had been subject to fire upon being placed there. In no instance were human bones found in 86 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. the mounds at this depth below what is now the natural surface of the ground surrounding. The only perceptible rise of the ground for several feet from these mounds may be attributed to the natural wash of rains fol- lowing the frozen and thawing conditions of the soil. The fact of finding charred wood, animal bones, etc., at such a depth below the surrounding surface may also be explained lay the accumulation of soil for ages past. The finding of charred wood, bones, etc., in the center, may be explained by the supposition that, before constructed, a sacrifice or burned offering was a part of a ceremony connected with their building. Another feature connected with these mounds is that in the vicinity where they exist many pieces of broken pottery, arrow heads, stone axes, etc., have been found, and nearly every year now the earth gives up many such things. Numerous theories have been advanced in regard to these artificial mounds — who built them, for what purposes were they built and as to the period of time at which they were built, but these questions yet remain as a sealed book and may never be satisfactorily answered. While it is con- ceded that the race of people who constructed these mounds were numerous, intelligent and industrious, yet where these people came from and the time of their activities on earth are also unsolved questions. If these mounds were built in commemoration of religious events, then their builders were a people who had a religion. If they were built, as some writers claim, for military purposes, then their builders were warriors. If for the latter purpose, then who were the foes they were protecting them- selves against? At what period of time did they occupy this portion of the earth or at what time they disappeared from it, no historian has yet at- tempted to fix, but students who have given the matter consideration agree that the period of time was after the Glacial period or Ice Age. The riddle of the Sphinx still remains unsolved, so does that of the artificial mounds, which exist in about every state of our Union, and in almost every county of Ohio. While these mounds are commonly designated as "Indian mounds," there is nothing to confirm such designation. It is well known that our American Indians, as a class of people, were indolent and lazy and would never do manual labor except by compulsion, and that they possibly never deviated from their habits in this respect by carrying the dirt from the dis- tance required. Many writers have expressed opinions about the builders of these mounds, and plausible theories have been advanced, yet these theories are but conjectures and unsustained by absolute facts. Some writers claim PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 8/ that the people who built them came from southern countries, and that at one tiine they were inhabitants of Phoenicia, and worked their way north- ward. Other writers, in trying to explain the disappearance of these people from this country, state that they were destroyed or driven from here by a race of Asiatic Indians, who came to this country by the way of Bering Strait. It is also stated by writers on the subject that when this continent was first discovered the Indians were its only inhabitants and that these In- dians had no tradition as to any other people or any wars with any other race of people. But, as we are not an archaeologist, we will not attempt to solve such problems. Yet, in time to come, research by students of the question may result in something tangible in regard to the matter. Of the five artificial mounds that existed in Putnam county, but one or two now remain, the others having been leveled to the earth by the encroach- ment of agriculture or for the construction of roads and other purposes for the benefit of mankind today. The artificial mounds of Putnam county • were located as follows : The largest one in Perry township, which was pos- sibly fifteen feet high and fifty feet in diameter, but now only about eight feet high. One mile north of this mound was another, located on the banks of the Auglaize river. Scarcely a trace of this mound now exists, nearly all of it being washed away by the encroachment of the river. The third mound was on the Blanchard river, in Greensburg township. Another was on Hog creek, in Union township. Another was located a mile east of Ot- tawa on what is now the Powell farm. This latter mound is now almost obliterated. AXES AND ARROW HEADS. In the vicinity of all these mounds, broken pottery, stone axes, arrow heads, etc., are still to be found. The arrow heads are of different colors of flint and of various sizes, from an inch and a half to six inches in length and of geometrical proportions. The stone axes are also of different sizes and of different stone. While nearly all varieties of stone are in evidenpe, that of limestone does not exist. The shapes of these axes indicate skill in their formation and knowledge of proportion. That the stone was put through a process of hardening or tempering we have no doubt, as in our boyhood days, in southwestern Ohio, we frequently visited a spot of ground upon which were a mass of pieces of stone blocked in shapes and sizes, the locality being no doubt a place where this process was practiced. As to the arrow heads, the manner of their construction has not yet been re-discovered. -Several theories have been presented, yet, on trying to work them out, they 05 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. have all proved a failure. The problem still remains to be solved. While- all these axes are commonly called "Indian axes," the term is a misnomer, so far as the masses of those found is concerned. The only kind of an axe that the Indians were ever known to have made is one made out of blue- clay and dried in the air. It is but a crude imitation of the real storte axe- and is deficient in proportion and finish and a poor imitation of the real stone axe. FIRST OWNERSHIP AND OCCUPANCY BY THE INDIANS. Prior to the year 1763, the Indians had peaceable possession of the lands in this part of Ohio, under the claims of France. During the year 1763, France ceded all its rights to the British government. In 1774, Great Britain, by its Parliament, passed an act declaring ownership of all the territory as far south as the Ohio river, and attached the territory to the province of Quebec. Great Britain maintained its right to the territory for a period of twenty years, when, in 1783, by the treaty of Paris, it surrendered all claims and the territory became a part of the United States. THE OTTAWA RESERVATION. By a treaty consummated by our government on September 29, 1777, at "The Foot of the Rapids of the Maumee of the Lakes," the Ottawa Reservation was ceded to the Indians. This treaty stipulates that "There- shall be reserved for the use of Ottawa Indians, but not granted to them, a tract of land on Blanchard's fork, of the Great Auglaize river, to contain five scjuare miles, the center of which tract is to be where the old trace crosses the said fork," and "one other tract to contain three square miles, on. the Little Auglaize, to include Oc-que-nox-ie village." The reservation given to Oc-que-nox-ie was where the village of Charloe is now located in Paulding county. The Ottawa Indians were permitted to occupy these reservations until the year 1833, when the United States bought them from the Indians. In the year 1833 our government placed on sale the lands constituting the reservation. The sale was made at Wapakoneta in the fall of that year. Thus, after occupying the lands, under the United States government, for a period of nineteen years, and possibly for over a hundred years pre- viously by right of possession, the last ownership of the lands by the Indians- expired. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Scf During the pending of the treaty granting this reservation there was much contention among tlie Indians as to whether they would accept the terms of the treaty, claiming that the five square miles did not contain enough land. The advocates of accepting the treaty and those opposing were about equally divided and much bad blood was engendered over the matter. So bitter had the strife become that frecjuent murders occurred among those favoring and those opposing the treaty. Yet the matter was eventually settled and peace reigned during the after years so long as they occupied the reservation. Many of the chiefs of the tribes located through- out this part of the state were' opposed to the provisions of the treaty and only about three hundred of the great number of Ottawa Indians attended the great meeting at which this and other treaties were made at that time. One of the most bitter opponents of the treaty was Oc-que-nox-ie, yet, as he succeeded in getting a reservation of his own, he finally accepted the con- ditions of the treaty and peace prevailed afterward. After the purchase of the lands by our government, in 1833, the In- dians remained here until about the year 1835-6, when nearly all of them were deported to their new reservation in Missouri, now a part of Kansas- A few stragglers, however, remained here and in the vicinity of Fort Jen- nings as late as 1839, when the last red man disappeared from Putnam county. They were unfortunate after leaving their village here. On their way to their new reservation, an epidemic of small-pox visited them and a large number of the tribe died from the disease. The worst enemy that the Indians had while occupying their Ottawa- reservation, was the "fire water" furnished them by traders, who were the worst species of the "boot-legger," and who were the cause of most of the crime that prevailed among the red men at that period. The disease of small-pox was also a great foe among them. It is said that every winter it- prevailed among them and caused a great many deaths ; in fact, nearly all the deaths by disease were from this cause. The Ottawa Indians were loath to leave their reservation here. It was an ideal place for making maple sugar, fish were plenty in the river and the territory abounded in game. Ten years after their departure a few of the braves visited this place and remained here for a number of days looking over the land which for so long had been their "happy hunting grounds." During their occupancy of this reservation, these Indians recognized Pe-ton-i-quet as their chief, yet, in their conversations with the first white settlers, they invariably spoke of him as their "half-chief." On being inter- rogaiied as to why they called him their "half-chief," their answer was that ■go PUTNAM COUNTYj OHIO. Pe-ton-i-quet had a twin-brother who was a chief, and, as the twin brother had been killed, Pe-ton-i-quet could only be a "half-chief" and not a "full- chief." This was the only reason given by them for their designation. How- ever, all mention of Pe-ton-i-quet by the white men who came here from 1833 to 1836 was favorable to him and all these pioneers agreed upon the fact that he was sober in his habits, honest in his dealings and kind in disposition. THE TAUWAS INDIAN VILLAGE. The original name of the Indian village located on this reservation was spelled Tauwas, and it so appears in the earliest histories of this part of the state. The name of the village was called Tawa by the early settlers. It is now a part of the town of Ottawa. The village of the Tauwas is known to have been in existence as far back as the year 1750, and was visited by the French missionaries and fur traders from that period as late as 1812, and, in fact, until the year 1832. The village was located on the Indian trace from Wapakoneta to the foot of the Rapids on the Maumee river. This trace crossed the Blanchard river at a point where the river bridge, on the road to Columbus Grove, now stands. The village was supposed to be on this trace and the center of the reservation of five miles square. The village, as it existed in 1830, embraced the territory now north of the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western railroad, west of the Chicago, Hamilton & Dayton rail- road, north as far as the Defiance pike and west to the river. The most pre- tentious cabin at that time was the council house, constructed of logs and located on what is now Walnut street, on the west side of the street a short distance beyond Tawa run. The trading cabin of Deardorf & Freede, fur traders, was the next cabin of large size. It was located on the rear of the lot now occupied by Mrs. James Ford, and was used by the early French missionaries in which to hold religious services. A crude altar occupied the east part of the building, and at a window in the east end of which, for years, a lamp was kept burning at all hours. This building was designated as "the light house" by persons traveling the trail from east to west. The Indians had "brushed" about five acres of land, in the river bottom immedi- ately west of their village, which they used to raise corn. This cornfield, with another acre, on what is now the Powell farm, was about all the land they cultivated. During the occupancy of the village two or three families of Indians lived on what is now the Powell farm and an Indian burying ^ground was also on the farm. During the occupancy of the village it was frequently visited by various PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. pl fur traders, to whom the Indians sold their furs for a mere pittance. For years previous to their departure, Pe-ton-i-quet was the only "store-keeper" in the village. His stock in trade consisted of powder, lead, fish-hooks and lines, together with a stock of beads. FAIR TREATMENT BY THE GOVERNMENT. In our examination of the various treaties made by our government with the Indians who occupied this part of Ohio, we are impressed with the truth -that our government in every instance acted in good faith with the In- dians. They paid them a big price for their lands, under existing circum- stances, and gave them big annuities in money and large tracts of land for Avhat the government received. If "Lo the poor Indian" was ever cheated or robbed, it was by the individual "pale-face" and not by our government. ANCIENT BURIAL PLACES IN PUTNAM COUNTY. From time to time during the past forty years many skeletons of In- dians have been unearthed in various parts of Putnam county, in taking gravel and earth from the various moraines which traverse this county. While a majority of these skeletons are found buried in the usual manner, some differ in this respect. In two or three instances, the bodies unearthed have been found to have been buried in a sitting posture, with face toward the east and with a piece of ancient pottery placed upon the top of the head and various trinkets made of stone and copper placed upon the thigh bones of the bodies. The skeletons of the three found showed that they were of larger proportions than those buried differently. The query presents itself as to whether these few skeletons were those of Indians or of a race •of people which preceded them. These three skeletons were found near where an artificial mound exists, and where many fragments of pottery have been found. One fact is evident, namely, that at the time of burial no regular bury- ing ground existed among the race of people to which they belonged. While the skeletons of Indians have frequently been found in the vari- ous moraines, it is evident that they had no regular burying grounds in this county prior to at least the year 1750. From this date regular burying grounds are known to have been in existence here, the fact being estab- lished by silver ornaments made prior to that date being found in the old Indian burying ground in Ottawa. 92 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. The best known and largest burying ground of the Indians in Putnam county, is that of the Ottawas, and especially that of the tribe which made this their abiding place for possibly a century of time, or up to the year 1836. The territory embraced in this ancient burying ground is located south of what is now known as Second street, between the old armory building and the Cincinnati, Hamilton &. Dayton railroad, and further south to the old bed of the river. Another burying ground, probably used prior to the one at Ottawa, was on the Powell farm, a mile east of this place, yet the number of Indians buried there is but small in comparison to those buried at Ottawa, as the latter was used until the departure of the Indians from this county. In digging trenches and in the cultivation of this latter burying ground several skeletons have been unearthed, and in two instances silver orna- ments and brooches have been found. A number of years ago, in making a garden, Reverend Miller unearthed a skeleton, on the head of which was a large and beautiful silver crown, upon which was artistically engraved a picture of a deer and buffalo, together with etchings, showing a high state of the engraver's art. Recently a couple of skeletons were unearthed, and upon one was found a silver ornament, in the shape of a saucer. On this orna- ment was engraved a deer, and the figure also showed a high state of art. At the same time a perfect skull of an Indian was found. The skull was very large, well proportioned and typical of the early Indian. The ornaments here mentioned were undoubtedly made in France, dur- ing the French occupancy of this territory, prior to the Indian-French war against Great Britain in the year 1756. At that period of time the French and Indians were close friends, and quite a number of Frenchmen lived with the Indians, sympathized with them and gave them many presents. It is stated in history that during the same period they were frequently visited by Jesuit missionaries, sent from France to this country, and who did great work in Christianizing and civilizing the Indians for years afterward. In fact, these missionaries and French fur traders were frequent visitors here up to the time our government came in control of this part of the country. As the finding of these silver ornaments was accidental, these burying grounds no doubt contain a great many more such ornaments, which may some day be brought to light. The last Indian who made his home in Tawa village was buried here in the year 1835. One was buried near Ft. Jennings, this county, as late as the year 1838-9. Upon the grounds used here for burial purposes, now and then a silver PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 93 brooch is found. Dwelling houses have been erected and time, to all outside appearances, has obliterated every vestige showing that it was once the burial place of members of a great nation of people of whom Pontiac was a great chief. W^ill the time ever come when another race of people can thus write of the burial place of those who now occupy the territory once an abiding place ■of the Ottawa Indians? THE OTTAWA INDIAN RESERVATION AND TAWA VILLAGE. While the Maumee valley was the scene of many stirring events over 3. century ago, and while the many histories of the state are prolific in refer- ence to the most important of these events, there are many incidents of lesser importance, pertaining to immediate vicinities, which interest those who now have an abode in the particular vicinity in which the events occurred. This is especially true with the descendants of the early pioneers whose ancestors were familiar with the local events, either by participation in or by tradi- tions obtained from the remnant of a great tribe of red men, who at the time were occupants, if not owners, of the country now possessed by the white man. On the 29th day of September, 1817, our government, through its com- missioners, Gen. Lewis Cass and Gen. Duncan McArthur, negotiated a treaty with the remnant of the Ottawa tribes m this part of the country. This treaty, in article six, stipulates that "there shall also be reserved for the use ' of the Ottawa Indians, but not granted to them, a tract of land on Blan- chard's fork of the great Auglaize river, to contain five miles square, the center of which tract is to be where the old trail crosses the said fork, and one other tract to contain three miles scjuare on the little Auglaize river, to include Ockquenoxy's village." As usual, this seemingly generous gift to the "noble red man" had a "string" to it and he could only possess the broad acres for such a time as the government might decree. The more intelligent of the Indians, of course, did not like the treaty, but as they rendered but little or no service to our government during the War of 1812, they were not in position to ask more, and therefore sullenly acquiesced in the treaty. Prior to 1812, Tawa village consisted of some twenty-five "shacks" or cabins, very few of which possessed the dignity of a cabin, the most being constructed of a few poles set in the ground and covered with bark. This Tillage was located on both banks of Tawa run and extended from the Gin- 94 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. cinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad to the mouth of the run. These, with a few "shacks" located near what is now known as "Gypsy Lane," constituted the abode of all the Ottawa Indians in this immediate vicinity. During the period from 1812 to 181 7, we cannot furnish the names of the chiefs who headed the tribe, but have been informed that there were sev- eral and that considerable jealousy existed among them in regard to this matter, and that two of the chiefs were killed by members of their own tribe on account of these jealousies. When Colonel HoUister, as commissioner, deported the remnants of all the tribes, it was difficult to get them to go to their new home, now in Franklin county, Kansas. Some forty of those located here and on the Auglaize refused to go, among whom were Pe-ton-i-quet, Tom Kinzie Mino, Black /onathan and the vagabond, Tom. However, these, with the remain- der of the forty, were, a year or two afterward, gathered together and taken to their new reservation beyond 'the Mississippi, so that in the year 1840 not a single man of the tribe was to be found within the confines of this county. Other Indians of the Ottawa tribe, under the chiefs No-wah, Ockque- noxy, Charloe, Ottaca, also disappeared from this part of the state, and this was the "last of the Ottawas" so far as northwestern Ohio is concerned. Among these chiefs, Ockquenoxy was possibly the greatest warrior. He was brave, and as cruel as he was brave, and dissipation in the end made him a very bad Indian. He was hard to conciliate, and it took three miles square of very good land to square him with the government. About the year 1827 he killed his son-in-law and grandson, for which crime he was tried by a council of chiefs and sentenced to be beheaded. However, instead of carrying out this sentence, one of deposition was substituted. FORT JENNINGS. In 1812-13, during the war of this period, General Harrison erected a fort on the .Vuglaize river and named it Ft. Jennings, in honor of Colonel Jennings. The location of this fort is where the village of Ft. Jennings now stands. It was established as a base for supplies and as intermediate be- tween Ft. Recovery and Ft. Defiance. Colonel Jennings, with three regi- ments of militia, was stationed for some time at the fort awaiting the ar- ri\'al of troops who were detained by high water. While there, detach- ments from the regiments were sent down the Auglaize and up the Blanch- ard and Flog creek, to ascertain the situation among the Indians, the Otta- was not being regarded as very friendly to our government. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 95 On one of these expeditions a detachment of mihtia came to Tawa vil- lage and camped on the south bank of the river, where the ice house of Mr. Myers is now located. The militia remained for about a week, and while there, burned the village, the Indians having left, taking with them all the camp equipage they could conveniently carry, hiding the remainder and burying their grain before leaving. The troops also destroyed the "shacks" east of Ottawa, on the Agner farm. At the close of the war the Indians again made Tawa village their home. They built a number of "shacks" and several cabins. They were here but a short portion of their time, being frequently away on hunting expeditions. For a number of years they led a dissolute life and did nothing in particular to attract more than passing notice. About the year 1816-17, they selected Pe-ton-i-quet as their chief. Pe- ton-i-quet was not a full-blooded Indian, his father being a Frenchman and his mother an Ottawa squaw. In intelligence he was far ahead of his tribe, the greater part of which were not a very high type of even the red man. He was a man of integrity, an honest trader and humane in his relations with the Indian and white man, both of whom had confidence in his honesty. From 181 7 to the time when the tribes were deported to Kansas, they lived a dissolute life. "Fire water" had been introduced among them to such an extent that dissipation had made them physical wrecks. This, with dis- ease, had greatly reduced their number, deaths being double that of births. A BIT OF SQUAW JUSTICE. Among the Ottawa Indians of this reservation was one called Tom. Tom was the most worthless vagabond known to exist among all the tribes of the Ottawas. He was a thief and an habitual drunkard, too lazy even to hunt or fish. He had a wonderful thirst for strong liquor; being drunk was his normal condition, being sober the exception. Tom, when on an extra big drunk, celebrated the occasion by whipping his squaw. The squaws, to even up with him, furnished him an extra amount of "red liquor," which made him helplessly drunk. While in this condition they caught him, took him down along the river bank and, after divesting him of all his clothing, tied him to a log and left him all night to the mercy of the mosquitoes. It is said that next morning Tom was scarcely recognizable by any of his com- panions. This bit of squaw justice worked to the full satisfaction of the squaws, and ever afterward, when Tom became abusive, all they had to do was to "buzz" like a mosquito and he fully understood their meaning. Tom 96 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. went west with the other Indians of his tribe, who were very anxious to -leave him behind and tried many plans to consummate their desire. A TOUGH CITIZEN OF THE RESERVATION. While Tom was a very worthless Indian, he was a saint in comparison with a vagabond Englishman who came to the reservation about the year 1820. His name was John Race and his wife was a half-breed Indian squaw. They lived in a cabin located on the southeast corner of what is now the county fair grounds. Race was supposed to have been a refugee who sought seclusion among the Indians to avoid punishment for some ^rime he had committed elsewhere. He was of vicious temper and was al- ways scheming to make trouble between the Indians and the early white settlers who came here some years later. He resorted to the most contempt- ible means to foment discord. An incident is related wherein he almost succeeded in causing serious trouble. He had a daughter aged about eleven years. One day the daughter was found dead along the river bank near his cabin. She had been shot, the bullet passing through her head. Race said that the girl had been killed by a certain white settler with whom he had had some difficulty. The fact of his having an Indian wife and he being intimate with the Indians, caused a number of them to believe his statement and for a short time considerable anxiety existed among the earlier settlers. Some years later, Race severely chastized his wife and she, in retaliation, stated that it was he who had killed his own child because the girl refused to do some trifling thing he had commanded. It was said that the little girl was very pretty and that she was white and possessed no marks of the In- dian, notwithstanding her mother was a scjuaw. The little girl was the first white child buried on the reservation. She was laid to rest a few rods from Tvhere the grand stand on the fair grounds now stands. Otho Crawfis, Sr., and George Agner, Sr., from whom the writer of this article obtained his information, were i^resent at the burial. "the light house." Perhaps there may be a difference of opinion among the descendants of the early pioneers of this locality as to where, when and by whom, the first hewed log house or cabin was built on grounds now a part of Ottawa. The writer is almost convinced that the first hewn log cabin built by a white man on the reservation was one built, about the year 181 7-18, by French fur traders who came here to trade with the Indians. This was a hewed PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. gy log cabin and the only one of the kind found here in 1833-4, --.vhen the first settlers came. This cabin was then in such a decayed condition that it was not fit for occupancy. The roof had tumbled in and weeds had grown up inside and outside of it. This cabin was located on the lot now owned and occupied by Mrs. James Ford. William Galbreath later took the logs to his farm along the river. The Indfans called it the "Light House," possibly from the fact that the fur traders kept a light burning in the cabin throughout the night. The cabin was also used by the early missionaries, who made it their home while here on their labors among the Indians. There is a tradition connected with this cabin to the effect that it was built by the traders prior to the year 18 12, and that when Tawa village was burned the cabin was not disturbed, from the fact that evidence existed that it was used by the missionaries as a place of worship. However there is no reliable informa- tion to substantiate this tradition. The only thing confirmatory is the dilapi- dated condition of the cabin at the time when the first settlers came as it was then in ruins, the ravages of time and the elements having produced the de- cay. It may have been built as tradition states. However, when the first settlers came here there was a large cabin still standing. It was sided with slabs cut from logs, and was occupied by a fur trader named Fredee, who was a Frenchman. A man named Deardoff, also a Frenchman, occupied the cabin after Fredee. This cabin was the most pretentious in the village at that time. THE SUGAR CAMPS OF THE INDIANS. About the only industry, outside of hunting and fishing, indulged in by the Indians of this reservation, was that of making sugar from the sap of the sugar maple tree. That this industry was carried on by the Ottawa Indians at a very early date, there is much evidence available. The principal sugar camps in the reservation were located but a short distance east and west of Tawa village. The one at the east was the most extensive and was located in the bend of the river east of the county fair grounds, while that on the west was located south of the Defiance road on what is known as the Galbreath farm, where yet remain quite a number of very old sugar trees. The trees constituting the larger camp, that east of the village, were tapped for sap as late as the year 1870 by the owners of the land. , In that year the ground was clfeared of the trees by David Cox,, who owned the land at that time. In converting the trees into firewood the Indian process of tapping was plainly to be seen, although the trees had grown to much greater dimensions during nearly the half century which had passed since the Indians had utilized them. 7 CHAPTER IV. EARLY SETTLERS OF PUTNAM COUNTY^ 1824-1834. The first white family in Putnam county was that of Henry Leaf, who built a cabin on the south side of the Blanchard river, on section lo, Greens- burg township, where he remained some time. He removed from that point and built another cabin on the Auglaize river, at the junction of the Blanch- ard with the Auglaize, where he was living in 1824. This man could hardly be considered a resident of the county, as he lived with the Indians, moved when they did, and when they were removed to the West, he went with them, and ended his days there. In 1824, David Murphy, with his family, came down the Blanchard river in a canoe from Fort Findlay, landed at the mouth of the Blanchard, built a cabin of poles, and became the first permanent white settler in the county. His wife was the first person buried in the cemetery at Kalida, and at her side the remains of her husband were deposited. During the year 1824, Silas McClish, Thomas McClish and Jack McChsh settled a mile be- low Murphy on the west side of the Auglaize. William Bowen settled three miles south, and William Patton fourteen miles south. 1825 — Henry Wing, Daniel Sullivan, William Craig, Daniel Pelke, Se- bastian Sroufe and Thaddeus Harris. 1826 — John Ridenour and his sons, Michael, Daniel and Jacob; Dem- mitt Mackerel, Frederick and William Stevens, William H. Harris and Samuel Washburne. 1827 — Josiah Clawson, Joel Wilcox, William Bishop, William Cochran, Cephas Cary, John Cary, Philip Comer and Wihiam Scott. 1828 — William Frasee, David Sroufe, Henry Comer, A. E. Martin, Robert Martin and Solomon Sprague. .1829 — S. L. Norris, Ellison Ladd and Jonathan Wiland. 1830 — William Clevenger, Nutter and Joshua Powell, Isaac Owens, Joseph, Samuel, Jacob and George Clevenger. 1 83 1 — Peter Rhodes, Abraham Sarber, O. W. Crawfis, Samuel Hall and John Guffy. 1832 — Jacob Rimer, Abraham Hardin, J. R. Rimer, John Myers, Sr., Abraham and James Crow, Obed Martin, Samuel Hall and H. M. Crawfis. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 99 1833 — J. V. Sackett, John Sigafoos, Stansbury Sutton, Hiram Sarber, Frederick Brower, John B. Bogart, Adam Sarber, WiUiam Guffy, James Nicholas, Thomas Watkins, Henry Wellman and C. Raabe. 1834 — Wilham Galbreath, Enoch Wicks, John Crawfis, Moses Lee, Hugh Crawford, Robert and Isaac McCracken, Sheldon Guthrie and many others. THE GERMAN-SWISS SETTLEMENT. By U. S. Steiner. It is now nearly eighty-two years since the Germans, or rather S\\iss and French, commenced what has become well known as the "German set- tlement" and a short history of it, and a few incidents of pioneer life may not be uninteresting. In the spring of 1838, ^Michael Neuenschwander (a native of Alsace, who came to this country in 1823 and settled in Wayne county) and his eldest son, John B., a young man of twenty-three, came west to seek a new home. Their object was to find an unoccupied place, that could be developed into a rich country, where land could be bought cheap. Having heard of such a place in Putnam county (Richland town- ship was then a part of Putnam county), they came directly here and, being pleased with it, picked out two quarter sections. They then went down to Piqua, where- the government land office was located, and entered the land. One of these pieces was cleared up and occupied by Daniel Neuenschwander until his death, which occurred on August 2, 1893. They then went back home to Wayne county, this state, and made preparation to leave for the west — the new home in the wilderness. They started on the last Friday in August, 1833, and arrived at their destination in eleven days, which was doing well, as it took some who came after them fourteen days. The fam- ily was composed of the parents and three sons, John B., aged twenty-three, Daniel, twenty-one, and Michael, ten years. They came in a covered wagon, with a team of horses and a yoke of oxen before it. It was very dry when they arrived and, as there was no water on their land, they sought another quarter section where water was plentiful and found one. This was after- ward occupied by the family and the youngest son, Michael, until their deaths, that of the mother occurring on February 13, 1846, in her sixty- seventh year; that of the father on March 10, 1854, aged seventy-four years and one day, and that of the son, Michael, on July 22, 1893. Again the fa- ther and eldest son went to Piqua to secure that land, and while they were gone the mother and the other two boys camped on an island in Riley creek, lOO PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. near Abraham Basinger's, during which time Daniel watched the horses and cattle, and also made a pair of shoes. When the father and son returned, they moved on the last-entered land, on which they had a spring and creek, and commenced putting up a cabin and preparing for winter. That winter was so mild that the ground never froze hard enough to bear up a loaded wagon. Their neighbors were Thomas Gray, on the farm now occupied by Abraham Bixel ; John Sigafoose, on the one now occupied by Jacob Lugi- bill; Christopher Miller, west of Rockport, and John Stout, near Pandora, then called Pendleton. They were here a year before others followed, but in the fall of 1834 there came an addition of four families, that of Christian Suter, afterward minister and bishop of the congregation; Dorse Amstutz; Christian Bucher, who died at the advanced age of one hundred years, seven months and twenty-two days, and John Moser, who subsequently moved to Lucas county. A good many came here that year to secure land and moved on it later. In 1853, and later on, people flocked in from Switzerland, Alsace, and Wayne and Holmes counties, Ohio, Virginia, etc., among whom were the Steiners, Schumachers, Basingers, Lugibills, Geigers and others. HARDSHIPS OF THE PIONEERS. The hardships of the pioneers can be better imagined than expressed. Think of going to Piqua without more of a road than a cow path, or hardly that. The land office was afterward moved to Wapakoneta. The first flour that Mr. Neuenschwander bought was at Sidney, but they soon commenced to keep it at Lima, and then it was considered so handy to get that Mr. Neuenschwander thought he would lay in a supply. He needed a good deal, as all who came to look at land stayed with him, so he bought eleven barrels at one time, at eleven dollars per barrel. His son Daniel packed it all home on one horse. He said there was no hour in the night that he was not on his way between here and Lima. He had a big horse, would throw a sack or two on his back, get on himself and start for home, it made no difference whether it was day or night, as the horse would keep the path. One evening he started from Lima after dark, in company with two other men. Alter- nately one rode and the other two walked behind; when about two miles from home the hat of the rider was caught by a limb and dropped, and they had to search about half an hour before they found it, as it was very dark and they had no means of making a light. Once or twice they went to Maumee City to mill, and when good mills were put up at Delphos and the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. !Ol canal was built, that place became a good market, which was considered very handy. The first year that Mr. Neuenschwander was here the two eldest boys went to Eagle Creek, Hancock county, for a load of corn. They started home from there one morning after breakfast, and it took them till noon the next day to get home, during which time they had nothing to eat but raw corn. At another time, when they had wheat to sell, the same two started, each with a load of thirty-two bushels and a double team. They went to Findlay, where they were offered fifty cents a bushel for their wheat, but refused to take it, and went on to Sandusky where they got sixty-two cents. It took them thirteen days to make the trip, during which time they had no warm meals and slept in no bed. Daniel also hauled wheat for neighbors to Tiffin; the wheat was sold for from sixty to seventy cents per bushel, he getting twenty cents a bushel for hauling. Other settlers had the same experiences, but it seems that they were all able to meet the severest hardships of those times without a murmur of discontent and always looked at the brightest side. But few of the first settlers are still living, John F. Steiner and Henry Shank, both over ninety years of age, Mrs. John S. Steiner, Peter Bucher and wife. Peter and Mrs. Chr. Suter, Barbara Basinger, Barbara Schumacher and probably a tew others. B. Lugibill, who was born in 1836, is the oldest voter born in Rich- land township. PIONEER HONEYMOONS. A year after Mr. Neuenschwander moved here his two eldest sons, John B. and Daniel, went back to Wayne county and were both married on August II, 1834. They soon returned with their young and happy wives. They had one horse and the women might have ridden him alternately, but Dan- iel's wife was not used to riding horseback and preferred to walk; they made the trip, so they claimed, in three days. A year later, September 15, a daughter was born to John B. and wife, who died several years ago in Kan- sas; and two months later a daughter was also born to Daniel and wife. This one became the wife of the writer of this sketch and never lived over a mile from where she was born. Now in the eightieth year of her age she is still hearty, though she had rather more than her share of the hardships and privations of that pioneer life. Mrs. Peter Bixel (nee Suter) was the first person born here who grew up. These pioneers can truly say that they first beheld the country a wilderness and saw it changed into a garden; and out of a comparatively sickly country (there being malaria at times) made one conducive to health and long life. ^0-2 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. THE MENNONITES. The Wyandot Indians were still at Upper Sandusky and often passed through here on their way to Defiance and return, but the settlers were never molested by them. The "settlement" has continually widened and its borders almost reach Beaverdam, Rockport, Columbus Grove, and Gilboa. Bluffton and Pandora are about it. The prevailing religion is the Menno- nite, but they are unhappily divided into four denominations; however, the original congregation is keeping the lead and has about nine hundred and fifty members. The preaching is mostly in German language and the schools are still taught in the English and German languages. We said above that the original congregation has nine hundred and fifty members ; the American Mennonites have upward of twenty families; the New Mennonites about twenty, and the Egly congregation is quite small, many of its former adher- ents having joined the Alliance and the Dowie faith. The people, as a rule, are generous, industrious, economical and pious, and the settlement stands second to no other place, probably in the whole United States, in regard to good roads, good buildings and beautiful farms. Most of the Mennonites are strong adherents of the creed laid down by their founder and subsequent teachers. A few adhere to a peculiar garb and other antique practices, but in the main they are moving along with the stream of time, though guarding diligently against all innovations that might be a serious injury to their good name, their homes and their church. They are greatly opposed to secret societies, and have been very successful so far in keeping their members out of them. The old and the Zion congregation have elected most all their preachers so far by lot and they generally have from two to four ; they have even elected their deacons the same way, all for life, whether they prove to be competent or not, but we venture the predic- tion that this practice will soon die out and that they will choose and treat their ministers the same as other churches do. The New Mennonites and the Egly's choose their ministers from their own members and put them on probation. These different churches have five Sunday schools, four young people's societies and two women's sewing circles. CHAPTER V. COUNTY ORGANIZATION. In Chapter i, on related state history, an account is given of the organ- ization of the Northwest Territory and the creation of the state of Ohio. From the day the state was admitted to the Union, March i, 1803, down to the present time, comprises a period of one hundred and twelve years. Start- ing out with less than a dozen counties in 1803, the state now has eighty- eight counties, which have been organized from year to year as the territory was bought from the Indians and settled up by the whites. The territory now comprised within the limits of Putnam county was originally within two separate Indian cessions, the Ottawa Reserve, of twenty-five miles, and that secured by the treaty of September 29, 18 17. This treaty was consumated at the Foot of the Rapids of Lake Erie and was negotiated by Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur, commissioners on the part of the United States, and the many different chiefs and sachems, repre- senting the Wyandot, Seneca, Delaware, Shawnee, Pottawattamie, Ottawa and Chippewa tribes of Indians. The state Legislature of Ohio, by the act of February 12, 1820, organ- ized Putnam county with the following limits : "Towns i and 2 south, and i and 2 north of ranges 5, 6, 7 and 8, east of the first meridian of Ohio." Each town (or township, as they are now called) contained thirty-six sec- tions, one mile sciuare, the whole county containing five hundred and seventy- six square miles. The county was cut off from Williams county, but the population was so sparse that it was not until fourteen years later that the county was formally organized and permitted to take its place as an indepen- dent political district. The scarcity of population is shown by the fact that only one hundred and sixty- three votes were cast at the first election in 1834. It is very unfortunate that the early court records of the county are not complete, due to the burning of the court house at Kalida in the fall of 1864, but the first steps in the definite organization of the county have been well established. In accordance with a legislative act, passed in 1834, the governor of the state appointed William Cochran, Henry Morris and Silas McClish as associate judges of the court of- common pleas of the county. These men 104 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. were intrusted with the duty of formally organizing the county and, pursuant to the act providing for their appointment, they met on May 8, 1834, at. the house of Abraham Sarber, in Kalida, and took the first steps in starting the county. After being sworn in as provided by law, they proceeded to complete the organization of the county by appointing Daniel W. Gray as clerk of the court; Amos Evans, prosecuting attorney; Abraham Sarber, town clerk; Thomas Gray, William Priddy and Samuel Myers, county com- missioners; F. C. Fitch, surveyor; John Cochran, A. E. Martin, Isaac Owens, James Nichols and Daniel W. Gray, school examiners. The judges con- cluded their day's work by ordering an election to be held on the thirty-first of the same month for the purpose of electing a sheriff and coroner. Thus was Putnam county ushered in as an independent county and may it be said to the credit of these first county officials that they performed their several duties in such a manner as to earn the commendation of their fellow citizens. Their duties were not onerous, in view of the fact that the county was very thinly settled, but what they did do was done in an efficient and painstaking manner. LOCATIOXs-Oi-v-OUNTY SEAT. For some reason which has not been ascertained, the county seat was definitely located in 1829, five years before the county was organized. The state Legislature, by the act of February 12, 1829, appointed a commission to locate and name a county seat, and it is presumed that the site the com- mission finally selected was the center of population of the county. Kalida, the site finally chosen, is located in section 5, township i south, range 6 east. This little village was located near the confluence of Plum and Sugar creeks and is now in Union township. After the organization of the county, on May 8, 1834, the county commissioners purchased all of section 5, which had not been previously bought, had it laid off into lots and ordered the town director to sell the lots at the best possible price. The money thus obtamed was to be used in the erection of a court house and jail. A frame court house was built and a jail of heavy timbers was hastily erected to accom- modate the few offenders who might need incarceration. In 1839 these frame structures were replaced by substantial brick buildings in Kalida and they remained in use until December 18, 1864, when the court house was burned down. On October 9, 1866, an election removed the county seat to Ottawa, where it has since remained. The vote to change the county seat was carried by a majority of four hundred and eighty-five. The citizens of m.::::t:, > n o 2 H k; CO 5 O ?- ^ > » . #, 1 " 1 \ Si*' ' ' 1 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. IO5 Ottawa deposited fifteen thousand dollars with the county commissioners to guarantee the erection of a court house. CHANGES IN AREA. It has been stated that the county of Putnam was organized with an area of five hundred and seventy-six square miles and it retained this area until 1848, when Auglaize county was organized by the state Legislature. At this time^ Richland township, the southeastern township of the county, was detached and made a part of Allen county. The following separate tracts were also taken from Putnam county at that time and added to Allen county: the southern tier of sections of Riley township; the entire township of Monroe (township 2 south, range 7 east) ; three tiers of sections from the south side of Sugar Creek township; three tiers of sections from the south side of Jennings township. These deductions from the original area of Putnam county were partially offset by the addition of the eastern half of township I south, range 4 east, now a part of Monterey township, which had been a part of Van Wert county. By these various changes the county was reduced to an area of four hundred and eighty square miles and this has remained the area of the county down to the present time. However, it should be noted that the territory detached meant a great loss to the county. It included much of the best improved land of the county and contained the thriving villages and towns of Bluffton, Beaver Dam, West Cairo and that part of Delphos situated east of the Miami and Erie .extension canal. In May, 1853, the county commissioners of Allen and Putnam counties met and agreed upon the sum of three thousand, eight hundred and forty-eight dollars and seventy-six cents, due Putnam county from Allen county, as compensa- tion for territory taken from Putnam and added to Allen county. TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION. There were some townships organized within the present limits of Put- nam county before it was formally organized in 1834. With the many changes in county limits and the increase in population from year to year, new townships were created and the limits of old townships were changed. The following table exhibits the organization of the various townships of the county, and the history of the townships will be taken up in the order of their creation : 106 * PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Square Townships. Organized. Miles. Perry 1828 30 Union 1832 30 Sugar Creek 1832 30 Jackson 1832 26 Jennings 1833 28 Blanchard 1833 36 Pleasant 1834 36 Riley 1834 30 Greensburg 1834 30 Ottawa 1835 36 Liberty 1837 36 Van Buren 1843 36 Monterey 1850 24 Monroe 1852 36 Palmer 1854 36 The exact dates of the organization of these various townships has not been ascertained owing to the absence of the early commissioners' and trustees' records, but it is believed that the dates as stated above are correct. They were given by the late George Skinner in his history of the county in 1880 and he was as good an authority on the history of the county as any man then living. Mention has been made of the decrease in the original area of the county with the detachment of a strip of varying width which was taken from the county in 1848 and added to Allen county. Two whole townships were detached at that time — Richland and Monroe, being south of Riley and Pleas- ant townships, respectively. One tier of townships was taken from Riley township and added to Richland and after the latter was joined to Allen county it still retained its old name as a part of Allen county. Sugar Creek township was halved by the act of 1848 and both halves retain the old name. Jennings township was also cut in two, but the part added to Allen became a part of Marion township in the latter county. Monterey township, three by six miles, was organized from territory which was taken from VanAVert county by the Legislature. Many of these townships have had some changes in their limits at various times. COUNTY OFFICIALS. The following is a list, as nearly as can be ascertained, of the ofificials of Putnam county since its organization in 1834: PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. IO7 CLERK OF COURTS. Daniel W. Gray, 1834-37; James Taylor, 1837-44; Moses Lee, 1844-51; R. W. Thrift, 1851-52; David I. Brown, 1852-58; John Buchanan, 1858-64; R. J. Spelman, 1864-70; Samuel B. Rice, 1870-76; John T. Thrift, 1876-79; Jacob J. Zeller, 1879-85; R. J. Spelman, 1885-87; H. W. Schmitschulte, 1887-95; Christ Beutler, 1895-1901 ; A. P Sandles, 1901-07; Joseph H. Gosling, 1907-1911 ; W. M. George, 191 1 to the present time. All of these officials have been elected by the Democratic party with the exception of John T. Thrift. AUDITOR. The county records do not show who the auditor was at the time the county was organized in 1834. For many years the auditor was elected every two years, but since the change in the constitution he holds for four years. One of the odd things disclosed by the old records was the name of "Sam Weaver," when his name should have been Samuel P. or S. P. Weaver. Reed and Jones are the only Republicans ever elected to the office, although it is thought that Creighton, because he served only one term, was a Whig. The list as taken from the records is as follows: W. Risley, 1838-44; J. E. Creighton, 1844-46; Neham Smith, 1846-50; William Bell, 1850-54; John Monroe, 1854-58; J. H. Smith, 1858-62; F. H. Rothman, 1862-66; Sam Weaver, 1866-70; John Deffenbaugh, 1870-74; Bernard Lehmkuhle, 1874-78; Louis Lehmkuhle, 1878-84; William Place, 1884-90; W. F. Reed, 1890-93; Aaron Overbeck, 1893-96; J. C. Jones, 1896-99; L. N. Welde, 1899-1905; Joseph Kersting, 1905-11; J. E. Roose, 191 1 to the present time. RECORDER. Moses Lee, 1834-41; Jabez S. Spencer, 1841-47; John Dixon, 1847-49; Jabez S. Spencer, 1849-53; F- W. Schierloh, 1853 (appointed to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Spencer, and served until the close of the term) ; Joseph Tingle, 1853-56; John Nicewarner, 1856-59; Peter J. Bowman, 1859-65; James Monroe, 1865-72; W. N. Wetherell, 1872-78; William Alt, 1878-84; L. M. Ludwig, 1884-90; Joseph Justice, 1890-96; John Cowan, 1 896- 1 902; Frank Gmeiner, 1902-09; H. C. Hummon, 1909- 1912; Theodore Heckman, 19 12 to the present time. io8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. TREASURER. The first transaction in the treasurer's office of Putnam county reads as follows: "July I, 1834 — Received cash of Abraham Sarber, town director of Kalida, $1,388." All of the treasurers have been Democrats with the exception of W. S. Lenhart. C. M. Godfrey was probably a Democrat at the time he was elected, although he later became one of the pillars of the Republi- can party in this county. The complete list of treasurers follows : J. M. Cochran, 1834-37; Moses Lee, 1837-39; F- H. Gillette, 1839-43; C. M. God- frey, 1843-47; O. W. Crawfis, Sr., 1847-51; Stansbury Sutton, 1851-55 Z. R. McClure, 1855-59; F. S. Godfrey, 1859-63; N. H. McCracken, 1863-67 Henry Montooth, 1867-71; William McClure, 1871-February 11, 1875 Stansbury Sutton, February 11, 1875-September, 1875 (McClure died in office and Sutton was appointed to fill his unexpired term) ; N. H. McCracken, 1875-79; H. L. McDoweU, 1879-83; L. N. Parker, 1883-87; O. W. Crawfis, Jr., 1887-91; W. S. Lenhart, 1891-93; Joseph Leopold, 1893-97; Ralph G. Spencer, 1897-1901 ; George D. Kinder, 1901-05; Herman McDougle, 1905- 1909; Frank J. Kohls, 1909-13; Charles E. Kohls, 1913 to the present time. SHERIFF. Every sheriff of Putnam county has been elected by the Democrats and, judging from the majorities which the sheriffs have been receiving, it seems like it will be many years yet before this unbroken record will be changed. Many of these sheriffs could tell some very interesting stories if they cared to disclose their experiences while in the discharge of their duties. One sheriff, Sherrard, hung a man by the name of Goodman on the spot where the old jail stood. It is probable that Sherrard had more exciting experiences than any other sheriff. The most famous jail delivery the county has ever known occurred during his administration, when murderer Goodman and sev- eral other prisoners tried to escape. Sherrard was struck with a brick-bat in a stocking by one of the prisoners, and the desperate criminals seized his keys and made a dash for liberty. Fortunately, nearly all were captured within a short time. The complete list of sheriffs of the county is as follows : William Cochran, Jr., 1834-38; David S. Gibbs, 1838-42; T. R. McClure, 1842-46; I. H. Vail, 1846-48; R. Douglass, 1848-52; John B. Fruchey, 1852- 56; James H. Vail, 1856-60; William Craybill, 1860-62; John Cunningham, 1862-66; W. W. Cartwright, 1866-70; Louis W. Albright, 1870-74; Henry Sherrard, 1874-78; Josiah Markley, 1878-82; Frank Rothman; Peter Wanne- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. IO9 macher, 1886-90; David C. AVilliamson, 1890-92; Frank E. Treece, 1892-94; B. F Burgess, 1894-98; Nicholas Miller, 1898-1902; Frank E. Treece, 1902- 1906; Joseph Zink, 1906-11; Nicholas F. Miller, 1911-15; A. L. Tate, 1915 to the present time. CORONER. The first coroner, William Turner, was appointed by the court in the spring of 1834, and the first man elected to the office was James Taylor, who was elected in the fall of the same year. The coroners do not see to have left definite records, or at least there does not appear a complete list of these officials in the county records. The following roster is as complete as the records show: William Turner, 1834; James Taylor, 1834-38; Henry Blos- ser, 1850-54; Chris Raabe, 1866-70; John W. Vaughn, 1870-74; David Waltner, Jr., 1874-78; Joseph Fouriner, 1878-82; H. J. Rader, 1882-86;- Jacob F. Leffler, 1886-90; S. F. DeFord, 1890-94; G. A. Light, 1894-98; E. J. Dech, 1898-1900 (re-elected in 1900, but resigned and A. F. Sheibley was appointed to fill out the term) ; A. F. Sheibley, 1902-06; E. L. Tupper, 1906-10; A. F. Sheibley, 19 10 to the present time. SURVEYOR. F. C. Fitch, 1834-37; E. B. Fitch, 1837-40; Benjamin A. Dunning, 1840-43; Elias Everett, 1843-45; L. E. Hawley, 1845-49; Jacob Blosser, 1849-52; Samuel Parker, 1852-58; John Sheakley, 1858-62; D. S. Crites, 1862-63; C. A. McDowell, 1863-65; H. F. Knowles, 1865-70; Lewis E. Holtz, 1870-76; Aaron Overbeck, 1876-82; Elias W. Dimock, 1882-88; Daniel W. Seitz, 1888-94; James D. Huddle, 1894-1900; O. C. Talbot, 1900-06; John T. Maidlow, 1906-11; J. S. Cartwright, 1911-15; Perry Ford, 19 15 to the present time. PROSECUTING ATTORNEY. The first prosecuting attorney of Putnam county, Amos Evans, received the munificient salary of fifty dollars a year; the present prosecutor is paid a yearly stipend of seventeen hundred dollars. The term was at first two years, then changed to three, and is now two years. Many of the incumbents of this office in the county have become among the strongest members of the local bar. The complete roster follows: Amos Evans, 1834-35; Hamilton Davidson, 1835-37; Francis H. Gillette, 1837-39; Edson Goit, 1839-40; Wil- liam G. Burge, 1840-41; WiUiam L. Rose, 1841-42; A. A. Skinner, 1842-45; no PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. George L. Higgins, 1845-46; James McKenzie, 1846-53; Azariah Budd, 1853-57; James McKenzie, 1857-1859; Azariah Budd, 1859-61; James C. Gribben, 1861-62; David L Brown, 1862-63; J. R. Linn, 1863-67; James An- derson, 1867-71; Stansberry Sutton, 1871-75; A. V Watts, 1875-79; James T. Lentzy, 1879-83; William C. G. Krauss, 1883-86; John P. Bailey, 1886- 92; Charles Frayer, 1895-95; James P. Leasure, 1895-98; G. W. Risser, 1898-1904; B. A. Unverferth, 1904-09; J. W. Smith, 1909-1913; A. A. Slay- baugh, 19 1 3 to the present time. PROBATE JUDGE. The office of probate judge was created by the constitution of 1852 and was again recognized by the constitution of 1912. It is interesting to note that a majority of the probate judges of Putnam county have not been lawyers. The first man elected to the position, John Dixon, was a lawyer. Taylor was a veteran of the Civil \A'ar and a merchant of Kalida. Kuhns was a real estate agent and held the office for twelve years, the longest of any incumbent. Gordon was a contractor and was recorder of Butler county several terms before coming to Putnam county. Bacon was a druggist; Uphaus, a manufacturer; Thomas, a lawyer; Armstrong, a farmer; Powell and Boehmer, lawyers; Heidlebaugh, a school teacher; Mersman, a manu- facturer. The complete list follows : John Dixon, 1852-55 ; A. J. Taylor, 1855-61 ; John Kuhns, 1861-73; John H. Gordon, 1873-79; Samuel S. Bacon, 1879-85; John H. Uphaus, 1885-91; A. Z. Thomas, 1891-97 (died in office and the governor appointed David N. Powell to fih the unexpired term. Powell served from February 15 to October 15, 1897) ; J. B. Armstrong, 1897 (Mr. Armstrong was elected to fill the unexpired term of Thomas) ; Amos Boeh- mer, 1897-1903; A. M. Heidlebaugh, 1903-09; Joseph Mersman, 1909 to the present time. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS. The first board of county commissioners was appointed May 5, 1834, by the associate judges. They were Thomas Gray, William Priddy and Samuel Meyers. In October of the same year, an election was held for county com- missioners and the following were elected: William Priddy, Benjamin Clevenger and Sheldon Guthrie. The complete list since that time follows: 1835, Isaac McCracken and Joel Wilcox; 1836, Christian Huber; 1837, William Scott; 1838, Christian Huber; 1839, Wilham Scott; 1840, J. D. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Ill Wamsley; 1841, Christian Huber; 1842, James Belford; 1843, W. B. Thrapp; 1844, Nicholas McConnell; 1845, W. B. Thrapp; 1846, Nicholas McConnell; 1847, S. Ramsey; 1848, H. J. Boehmer; 1849, William Kilpatrick; 1850, H. J. Boehmer; 1851, Samuel Prekey; 1852, Henry Kieheffer; 1853, Clark H. Rice; 1854, William Krause; 1855, Henry Kieheffer; 1856, Clark H. Rice; 1857, Robert Stewart; 1858, William Krause; 1859, O. W. Crawfis; i860, John Diffenbaugh; 1861, Conrad Henry; 1862, Simon Maple; 1863, Conrad Henry; 1864, John Diffenbaugh; 1865, Simon Maple; 1866, Herman Recker; 1867, Conrad Henry and B. H. Lehmkuhle; 1868, Herman Recker; 1869, Michael Bridenbaugh; 1870, B. H. Lehmkuhle; 1871, W. W. Place; 1872, Michael Bridenbaugh; 1873, Charles Wannemacher; 1874, W. W. Place; 1875, William Schaffer; 1876, Charles Wannemacher; 1877, C. F. Mallahan and Jarvis Postlewait (the latter appointed) ; 1878, William Schaffer and James H. Smith (the latter elected to fill vacancy) ; 1879, Ferd Unterbrink; 1880, Thomas J. Williams; 1881, John H. George; 1882, Ferd Unterbrink; 1883, William Boehmer; 1884, John F. George; 1885, John T. Mallahan; 1886, William Boehmer; 1887, James H. Smith; 1888, John T. Mallahan; 1889, G.. B. Brinkman; 1890, James H. Smith; 1891, Amos Liggett; 1892, G. B. Brinkman, J. T. Mallahan and William Agner (the two last named appointed); 1893, William Agner; 1894, J. W. Poast and D. G. Leffler (the latter appointed); 1895, Samuel Cartwright; 1896, D. G. Leffler; 1897, J. W. Poast; 1898, Samuel Cartwright; 1899, Ignatius Stech- schulte; 1900, David Owens; 1901, J. H. Rower; 1902, Ignatius Stechschulte ; 1903, D. F. Owens; 1904, J. H. Rower; 1905, B. A. Ruhe; 1906, Jacob Bright; in 1906 a law was passed changing the tenure of office of the county commissioners from one year to two; 1908, B. A. Ruhe, Jacob Bright and Jacob Best; 1910, Jacob Best, John R. Forney and George Herman; 1912, Frank Kracht, John Forney and Jacob Best; 1914, Henry W. Little, Frank Logan and William Schlagbaum. REPRESENTATIVES IN CONGRESS. Since the organization of the county, in 1834, it has been included in several different congressional districts. It is rather difficult to designate all the men who have represented it, but the list of those representing this district since 1852 have been taken from the official records and are complete to 1915. The counties given are those in which the congressman lived when elected. 112 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1852-54 — A. P. Edgerton, Williams. 1890-92 — Dennis D. Donovan, Hen- 1854-67— Richard Mott, Lucas. ry. 1867-68 — J. M. Ashley, Lucas. 1892-94 — Ferd C. Layton, Auglaize. 1868-70 — William Mungen, Hancock. 1894-96 — Dennis D. Donovan, Hen- 1870-74 — C. N. Lamison, Allen. ry. i874-78^A. V. Rice, Putnam. 1896-98— F. B. Dewitt, Paulding. 1878-80 — Benjamin LaFever, Shelby. 1898-02 — David Meekison, Henry. 1880-85 — William D. Hill, Defiance. 1902-04 — John S. Snook, Paulding. 1885-86 — George E. Seney, Seneca. 1904-06 — W. W. Campbell, Henry. 1886-88— M. M. Boothman, Will- 1906-14— T. T. Ansberry, Defiance. iams. 1914— N. E. Matthews, Putnam. 1888-90— S. S. Yoder, Allen. REPRESENTATIVES IN STATE LEGISLATURE. Prior to the year 1847, Putnam county was in the same district with Allen, and, later, was with Henry county. Following are the list of state representatives and their years of service: Nathan S. Landes, 1847-48 Charles B. Edson, 1848-49; Sidney S. Sprague, 1849-50; William H. Snook 1850-52; James G. Haley, 1852-54; James McKenzie, 1854-56; Henry J, Boehmer, 1856-68; W. J. Jackson, 1858-60; David L Brown, 1860-62 Benjamin A. High, 1862-64; H. J. Boehmer, 1864-66; S. M. Heller, 1866-69 H. J. Boehmer, 1869-71; S. M. Heller, 1871-72; J. J. Moore, 1872-74 George W. Light, 1876-78; David L Brown, 1878-82; L H. Kahle, 1882-86 Amos Boehmer, 1886-90; Milton E. McClure, 1890-94; William E. Hoffman 1894-98; N. B. Ross, 1898-1902; O. J. O'Donnell, 1902-06; Joseph Justice, 1906-10; John C<=-wan, 1910, still serving. After 1870 Putnam county elected its own representative. Before this was made a separate district, in 1870, the following were residents of this county: McKenzie, Brown and Boehmer. STATE SENATORS. From 1834 Putnam county has had representation in the state Legis- lature and during the eighty-one years which have elapsed since that time it has been included in several districts. It was first included in a district composed of Allen, Mercer, Darke, Shelby, Wood, Miami, Williams, Lucas, Van Wert, Paulding, Henry and Putnam counties. Gradually the number of counties composing the district was reduced and now consists of the five counties of Wood, Hancock, Henry, Fulton and Putnam. This district ;t PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. II3 has had two senators in the Legislature. The complete list of senators follows : James Johnson, 1833-34; John Hunt, 1835-36; Curtis Bates, 1837-38; John Hunt, 1839-40; Jacob Clark, 1841-42; John W. Walters, 1843-44; A. P. Edgerton, 1845-46; Sabirt Scott, 1847-48; James Cunningham, 1849-51; William Mungern, 1852; Samuel H. Steadman, 1854-56; William S. Lunt, 1856-58; Joseph N. Westcott, 1858-60; George Laskey, 1860-62; Charles M. Godfrey, 1862-64; J. C. Hall, 1864-66; A. M. Cory, 1866-72; H. P. Page and D. W. Howard, 1872-74; William H. Tressler and E. D. Potter, 1874-76; P. P. Brown and E. D. Potter, 1876-78; J. B. Steadman and David Joy, 1878-80; John A. Wilkins, 1880-82; J. H. Brigham and J. D. Norton, 1882- 84; W. H. McLyman and O. B. Ramey, 1884-86; E. S. Dodd and H. C. Groshner, 1886-88; William L. Carlin and William Geyser, 1888-90; William W. Sutton and John Ryan, 1890-92; T. H. McConica and John C. Rorick, 1894-96; T. C. Harbaugh and John Vogt, 1896-98; William G. Leete and Adam Schafer, 1898-1900; T. C. Harbaugh and George C. Dunham, 1900-02; Calvin P. Godfrey and George C. Dunham, 1902-04; Calvin P. Godfrey and L. H. Austin, 1904-06; R. A. Beatty and Amos Boehmer, 1906-08; Amos Boehmer, 1908-12; E. F. Weiser, 1912-1914; C. C. Cass, 19 1 4 to the present time. COUNTY INFIRMARY. In 1865 a vote was taken to build a county infirmary, but the proposi- tion was defeated. At the April election, 1866, another vote was taken and carried by eight hundred and six majority, only one hundred and fifty-one votes being cast against the measure. In 1869, John Kern, Isaac Vail and Presley Corron were appointed and constituted the first board of directors. Those succeeding and years of service are as follows: 1869, Jessie Joseph, to fill vacancy; 1869, Samuel Kline; 1871, Isaac Vail; 1872, Jessie Joseph; 1872, Herman Recker, to fill vacancy; 1873, Herman Recker; 1874, Jacob S. Williams; 1875, Lewis N. Crawfis; 1876, Eli Stevic; 1877, Jacob S. Williams; 1878, Lewis N. Crawfis; 1879, Eli Stevic; 1880, Henry Recker; 1881, Joseph Faber; 1882, Kemp Samsal ; 1883, Henry Recker; 1884, Joseph Faber; 1885, Kemp Samsal; 1886, Joseph Miller; 1887, J. R. Rimer; 1888, R. E. Gilbert; 1889, Joseph Miller; 1890, J. R. Rimer; 1891, R. E. Gilbert; 1892, W. F. Sherman; 1893, James Wilhams; 1894, J. W. Summers; 1895, W. F. Sherman; 1896, James Will- iams; 1897, J. W. Summers; 1898, A. H. Wingate, to fiU vacancy; il 8 114 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. A. H. Wingate; 1899, J. B. Uphaus; 1900, J. M. Shank; 1901, J. W. Pfister; 1902, J. B. Uphaus; 1903, J. M. Shank; 1904, J. W. Pfister; 1905, D. W. Light; 1906, James H. Hunt, appointed; 1906, James H. Hunt; 1908, James H. Hunt; 1908, D. W. Light; 1908, Henry J. Lammers; 1910, Henry S. Baxter; 1910, W. T. Liter; 1910, Henry J. Lammers. The board of in- firmary directors ceased to exist in 1910, by an act of the Legislature passed in that year. SUPERINTENDENTS OF THE COUNTY INFIRMARY. 1869-71, Jacob S. Williams; 1871-75, "Samuel McDowell; 1875-85, William' R. Sherrard; 1885-92, C. A. McDowell; 1892-1900, James Ridge; 1900-02, John E. Nemire; 1902-15, W. P. Frantz. After the board ceased to exist, the superintendent was appointed by the county commissioners. W. P. Frantz was the first man appointed by the commissioners and is still serving in that capacity. TAX COMMISSIONERS. The Legislature of 1912-14 enacted a law creating the office of deputy tax commissioner. Joseph Kersting was appointed by the commissioners to fiill this office for Putnam county. He served for nearly two years, when he was superseded by R. B. Lay ton. The law has been decentralized and the duties of the deputy tax commissioner transferred to the county com- missioners. CHAPTER VI. TOWNSHIP SETTLEMENT AND ORGANIZATION. BLANCHARD TOWNSHIP. Blanchard township was organized in 1833, the year before Putnam county was organized, and at that time included the territory now in Van Buren, Riley, Blanchard and Richland townships. Richland township and the south tier of sections of Riley township were detached from Putnam county in 1848 and added to Allen county. When Blanchard township was organized, in 1833, it was a part of Williams county aiid the county seat was then located at Fort Defiance. The order creating the township is found in the commissioners' records of Williams county. As far as known, there were only eight voters in the township at the time it began its career, although after the organization of the township the settlers began to come in rapidly. Otho Crawfis and his wife, Sarah Agner, had the honor of being the first settlers in this extensive township. They were natives of Fairfield county, Ohio, and settled in Putnam county on October 17, 1831. The year following, came Samuel Hall, Joseph Hick- erson and H. M. Crawfis. In 1833 the population was increased by the fam- ilies of Abraham Hardin, Hezekiah Bonham, William Prichett, Calvin and Alexander Morehead. The year 1834 saw a still larger number of fami- lies casting their fortunes with the pioneers of this township. In this year came William Patrick, Henry Pope, Joseph Wade, Samuel Hickerson, Jos- eph Bowen, George Shoemaker, Thomas McClure, Andrew McClure and Charles Guysinger. The following year brought in the families of George Stewart, George Bacon, Azariah Smith and John Stewart. Unfortunately, the early records of Blanchard township were burned many years ago and definite data on its early history is hard to obtain. It is known that the first election was held at the home of Otho W. Crawfis, Sr., and that the following officers were elected: Samuel Hall, Abraham Hardin and Otho W. Crawfis, Sr., trustees; Joseph Hickerson, clerk; Otho W. Crawfis, Sr., justice of the peace. Hickerson was selected by the voters to take the election returns to Defiance, and, while in the county seat, he Il6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. was sworn in as clerk. Upon his return he swore the other officers in and then the new county was ready for business. An interesting story is told of Crawfis, who had been elected justice of the peace, and the story has the unusual advantage of being true. When he received his commission as justice of the peace for Blanchard township, Williams county, from Defiance, signed by Governor Lucas, he returned it, thinking that he lived in Putnam county. Within a short time the commis- sion was returned to him with the official information that it was correct and that Putnam county had not yet been formally organized. FIRST EVENTS. Rev. Elam Day, a Methodist, preached the first sermon in the town- ship, at the home of Samuel Hall, in the fall of 1832. Martin Hickerson, born in 1833, a son of Joseph Hickerson, was the first white child born in the township. The first death was that of a Miss Killpatrick, and it oc- curred the same year. The year 1833 also witnessed the first marriage, that of Samuel Myers and Margaret Hardin, the wedding taking place on Christmas day. The first road was the Findlay-Defiance road, and was sur- veyed through the township in the early part of the thirties. Gilboa, the first town, was laid out in 1837 by Elisha Stout, who also built the first grist-mill in the township. The first election for township trustees was held in Gilboa, November 19, 1852. Wolves were plentiful in this part of the county, also deer, wild turkeys and other game could be seen. The first school in the township was taught by James Wade. The school house was built of logs, with hewed benches for seats and wide boards nailed against the wall for writing desks. It was heated by a fireplace made of mortar and sticks. Reading, writing, spelling and arithmetic were the only branches taught. Mr. Wade was followed, in order, by Eliza Emmons, Emeline Hubbard, William Pierman, Mrs. Susan McClish, Mary Cart- wright, James Agner, Lydia Shelby, Jane McDowell, Luella Agner, Laura Higginbothan and Nettie Diviney. PRESENT TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS. Justice of the peace, A. V. Logan, of Gilboa; trustees, Hugh Harris and L. A. Pitney, of Gilboa, and John Crawfis, of J_eipsic; clerk, W. H. Tobias, of Gilboa; treasurer, W. B. Gierhart, of Gilboa; constables, Henry Bowman and Richard McClure, of Gilboa. PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. ny GILBOA. Gilboa, as was stated before, was laid out in 1837. Nelson McCal- lister built the first frame house in the village, but it was only a short time until the town began to grow. About the year 1839, a tavern was opened by Benjamin Stewart and Edward Mercer started a general store. Black- smiths, mechanics and men of different trades began to settle here and it became a thriving village. It is characteristic that Gilboa had the most rapid growth of any town in the county. From 1840 to the early fifties it was classed as the most thriving town in the county. At the time the early surveys were made, in 1852, for the Dayton & Michigan railroad, the citizens of Gilboa made an active and persistent contest with Findlay and Ottawa for the location of that road through their town; they failed in their efforts, and this was the first blow which the town suffered. Among the earlier prominent and active citizens of this village were: Matthew Chambers, Sr., who built the brick hotel; Col. M. C. Ewing, who owned what was then the largest general store in the county; Dr. T. E. Paul, who settled here in the practice of medicine in 1845; William Mc- Clure, who also kept a tavern and later became county treasurer; Simon Maple, merchant, who later became county commissioner ; Stansbury Sutton, who kept a general store until he took up the duties of prosecuting attorney and, later, county treasurer; Dr. Lyman W. Moe, who took up the practice of medicine in 1847. In 1848 an epidemic of cholera almost decimated the village. Early settlers relate the horrible sufferings and deaths of the victims of this de- vastating disease. For a time it seemed as though the entire village would be wiped out, but its ravages were finally checked, although the effects of this dreaded disease were felt for some time. The town was incorporated by an act of the Legislature in 1848 and has retained its corporate life ever since. The Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western railroad was built through its limits in 1888, and gave an impetus to the growth of the town and its business, evidenced by the construction of new business buildings and residences. Situated as it is, in the center of what was the earliest settled, and still among the best agricultural, portions of the county, surrounded by splendid farms, it has always kept a good trade, and even in the darkest years, after its failure to secure the Dayton & Michigan road, and, later, the epidemic Il8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of cholera, it has still retained its progressive air. It has not progressed as rapidly in the past twenty years as formerly, but, owing to its early bear- ing, it has retained its place as an agricultural center. Its business interests at present consist of an up-to-date bank, drain-tile plant, elevator and business houses which deal in all the necessities which the farmers require. It has a very modern high school building and is one of the nine educational centers of the county. The present officers are : Mayor, P. C. Stateler ; clerk, J. G. Knepper ; treasurer, P. C. Davis; marshal, Frank Wood; councilman, O. V. Todd, W. B. Gierhart, J. M. Reed, John Mofifit, William Clymer and Banner Per- kins. The population of Gilboa in 191 5 was three hundred and forty-five. m'culloughville. McCulloughville, located on the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western rail- road, was platted in 1888 by L. E. Holtz, civil engineer, for D. U. McCuI- lough. This town was the site of Crawfis College and a postofifice was es- tablished here for the convenience of the college and the surrounding coun- try. But this was later served by a mail route and the town has ceased to exist. LIVINGSTON. Livingston bears the distinction of being one of the few "paper towns" of the county. It was laid out, but never materialized. Blanchard has within its boundaries two institutions which will be dealt with in another chapter, the county infirmary and Crawfis College. GREENSBURG TOWNSHIP. Greensburg township was created by the county commissioners within a year after the county was formally organized in 1834. Henry Wing, the first settler, named the township, although history does not record why he chose the name. Wing built a rude log cabin and located here with his fam- ily as early as 1825, but he had been in the township for several years prior to that date. Just when he came to the state of Ohio is not known, but he is found at the mouth of the Blanchard river in 1814 guarding supplies for the army. The War of 1812 Avas not yet closed and he seems to have taken some part in that struggle. In 1819 Wing was helping Capt. James PUTNAM COUNTYj OHIO. IIQ W. Riley to survey in this part of Ohio, and he continued with the survey- or's gang until 1822. This representative old pioneer was killed in 1844 by a falling tree, at the time of the opening of the Ottawa and Defiance road through Putnam county. In 1820 Henry Leaf located his family in section ID, on the Blanchard river, and in 1824 David Murphy, with his family, came down the Blanchard river from Fort Findlay. His was one of the first permanent white families in the county and his wife was the first person buried in the cemetery at Kalida. In 1832 came Isaac Owens and John Myers, followed, in the succeed- ing year, by Levi Grove, Nutter Powell, Frederick Brower and John F. Kahle. The latter was the first foreigner in the county to take out naturali- zation papers. The year 1834 brought in Abraham Crow, Christian Bear, Nicholas Prynne and Alexander Berryhill. In 1835 Joshua Powell, Will- iam Bell, James Crow, William Phillips and John Neill were added to the slowly-growing population. That the township was of slow growth is shown by the fact that only eight votes were cast at the first election in April, 1835. These eight voters selected the following officials : William Bell, Abraham Crow and Joshua Powell, trustees; Frederick Brower, clerk; Nutter Powell, treasurer; Fred- erick Brower, justice of the peace. Organized with an area of thirty-six square miles, the township was de- creased in 1848 by having the south tier of sections detached and added to Union township. In common with most of the townships of the county, the land in Greensburg was very swampy and it was many years after the township was organized before artificial drainage brought much of its area under cultivation. At the present time no township in the county can boast of better farms and the hundreds of contented and independent farmers of the township bespeak the prosperity which has come to this section of thfe county. TOWNS. Greensburg township has no equal in the county in the way of towns, there being four within her limits, namely : Avis, Cuba, Croswell and Dornington. If any of the four have ever been platted the officials failed to record the plats. Avis is located on the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western railroad. With a large stave mill to aid the growth of this village it bid fair to become a thriving town, but the mill being destroyed by fire and never replaced, the hopes for a larger village were shattered. Its business com- prises one elevator, a general store and stock yards. Cuba is situated in I-O PUTNAM COUNTYj OHIO. the northern part of the township, on the Blanchard river. Croswell is a railroad stop west of Avis on the same railroad. Dornington is located oh the Ohio Electric and also the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western railroad. TOWNSHIP OFFICERS. The following are the present officers of Greensburg township: Jus- tice of the peace, A. F. Steiner; trustees, C. W. Beard, A. C. Korte, A. G. Verhoff; clerk, William Siebeneck; treasurer, H. C. Schroeder; constable, J. B. Fappe. JACKSON TOWNSHIP. Jackson township lies between Perry and Jennings townships, on the north and south, and Union and Monterey, on the east and west. -It was originally laid out six miles square, although it was later decreased to twenty sections. In 1848 its area was increased to twenty-six sections by the ad- dition of six sections taken from Perry township. The Auglaize river runs through the township from south to north and affords ample natural drainage. Within the past few years extensive systems of artificial drain- age have been put into operation, with the result that now nearly all of the township has been brought under cultivation. The records of the township covering the early years of its history were destroyed by fire many years ago and this renders it impossible to write the complete history of the township. The date of the first election and the first officers elected are unknown, but it is certain that the organization of the township dates from the first half of the thirties. The first officers of whom any record has been found are as follows : Thaddeus Harris, justice of the peace, and William H. Harris, constable. Elias Wallen, who settled in the township in 1822, seems to have been the first permanent settler. Rufus Carey and John Harter came with their families the following year, entered land and started to make homes in the wilderness. Owing to the extreme swampiness of the township, the settlers came in very slowly for several years. Thaddeus Harris (1825) and Thomas Carder (1830) were all who came to the township before 1833. In the latter year, Phillip, Joseph and George Comer, Edward Ladd and John Heddrick located along the Auglaize river. The following are the present officers of Jackson township: Justices PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 121 of the peace, H. Frank Rower and George W. Roose; trustees, Philip Stirn, John Kehres, G. Kimmerle; clerk, Henry Biedenharn; treasurer, F. J. Recker; constable, Philip A. Rower. Jackson township, although ranking among the best townships in the county, does not have any large towns within its limits. Muntana is situated on the Cloverleaf railroad, three miles south of Cloverdale. It was sur- veyed and platted in 1881 by George Skinner, surveyor for George H. Cal- kins. It bears the distinction of being the first town laid out in this town- ship. Huntstown is another town of about the same strength as Muntana and situated just two miles north of it. Huntstown was platted and laid out in 1883 by Samuel Starkey and also lies on the Clover Leaf railroad. Douglas is the third town in the township and finishes the list. This town was never platted, at least no record can be found in the plat book, and at present is the site for the Odenweller Milling Company. These towns, al- though small, draw from the rich farming community in this county and in time may prove quite important commercial centers. JENNINGS TOWNSHIP. Jennings township also suffered in the donation of land to Allen county, just as Sugar Creek did. The south half of the township was cut off and two tiers of sections were added on the north from Jackson township, but three sections were cut off the west side and added to Monterey, thus the township now embraces twenty-eight sections. Samuel Washburn was the first settler to purchase land and locate here. Washburn came in 1825 or 1826 and purchased two farms, which he cleared and sold to Isaiah Clawson and William Cochran in 1827 or 1828. About the year 1828, James Thatcher and William Scott cast their lot with the other early settlers in this township. A few others came in about this time and settled on the banks of the Auglaize river. The first white child born in Jennings township was Thomas Wash- burn, on August 9, 1828. John and James Cochran were the next. In 1832 or 1833 the township took on a temporary organization. Will- iam Cochran served as the first justice of the peace. It is difficult to get the true history of the township or the date of the permanent organization, as the early records were destroyed. In 1833 several families came over from Germany and took up their permanent residence here; among these were John Disher, Henry Wellman, C. Raabe, Henry Raabe and John 122 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Raabe. In the following year H. J. Boehmer, V. D. Emse, George Calvage, Mrs. Calvage and several others settled here. The returns show that at the fall election in 1834 there were only seventeen votes cast in the township. Colonel Jennings was the commandant at the fort, a small stockade built on the west bank of the Auglaize river, which served as a military post in the war of 1812. An incident concerning this post follows: Colonel Jennings sent out a detachment of troops under Capt. William D. Jones on a foraging expedition to the Indian towns of Upper and Lower Tawa on the Blanchard river. The detachment consisted of the Captain, Knowles Shaw, Aaron Howard, James Howard, Henry and Thomas Montgomery. They came in from the west and crossed the river near the Glandorf bridge. This was in August, 1813 or 18 14. They found the towns deserted and, after feasting on roasting ears, chickens and fat hogs for a week, they burned the Indian towns and destroyed the growing crops before they returned to the fort. Colonel Jennings left his name as a monument to the township and also the town. The Jennings township officials are as follows: Justices of the peace, J. H. Hunt and Cornelius Kortier; trustees, Barney Bruskotter, William Von Sassan and Charles Ricker; clerk, Ferd Heising; treasurer, Charles H. Raabe; constable, Felix Calvelage: ditch supervisor, James Brackman. FT. JENNINGS. Ft. Jennings is one of the oldest settlements in northern Ohio, where the white man made a permanent home in the wilderness. In 1812 Colonel Jennings erected a stockade, consisting of a line of posts set in the earth on a high and favorable bend of the Auglaize river, and it was from this stockade that the present village received its name. Settled at a time when there was no railroad, no canal, no stores, when by far the greater part of Ohio was one vast wilderness, the present generation can hardly realize the hardships and privations which these early settlers had to undergo. The earliest industry was the manufacture of corn whiskey, but the construction of the canal drained the swamps and made this one of the rich- est corn-producing sections in northern Ohio. The town of Ft. Jennings was platted in 1847 and incorporated in 1 88 1. The Clover Leaf railroad was built through the town in 1876 and this gave the farmers a ready outlet for their products to the chief markets of the country. In 1852 Christian Raabe founded the first general store and this was PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 23 followed soon after by a saw-mill, elevator, a tile mill, a good music store, two hotels and stores representing all the different lines of merchandise. The streets of the town are sewered and piked, and, with the industry and thrift of the farmers, she enjoys a proud place among the most progressive towns of the county. The corporation officers of Ft. Jennings are as follows: Mayor, F. H. Geier; clerk, Ferd Heising; treasurer, Frank Geier; marshal, A. B. Miehls; councilmen, William Boehmer, Basney Wieging, Louis Brockman, Ferd Bertling, Frank Kohorst, Felix Calvelage. The population of the town in 1910 was three hundred and thirty-six. RUSHMORE. Rushmore is situated on the Northern Ohio railroad and the south- western part of Jennings township. It is surrounded by rich farming lands and bids fair to become a thriving little village. It has a church and school building for the convenience of its patrons. LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. Liberty township was organized in April, 1837. The first settler -to locate here was Alexander Montooth, in 1835. Later in the same year, Charles Hofstetter, Nicholas and J. R. McConnell, Samuel James, James and John Irvin, John Krebbs and O. C. Pomeroy took up their permanent residence in this township. H. S. Ramsey, Jacob Sigler, Henry Knopp, James Woodell and Robert Lowry came a short time later and aided in the early settlement and township organization. At the first election, Nicholas McConneh was chosen justice of the peace, and J. R. McConnell was elected constable. The early records have been lost and a full list of the first township officers cannot be given. The land in Liberty township was originally very swampy and this made it unhealthy. The first settlements, for this reason, were made on what was then called the Ridge, which was a slightly elevated strip of land. The growth of this township was very slow at first, as a great part of the land was unfit for cultivation. The swamps and ponds of the township were drained in i860 and the land has been tiled, and in this way brought under cultivation. After the swamps were drained the sickness of this locality was greatly decreased and it became a very desirable habitation. 124 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. The first town was laid out in 1845 by the late Judge Palmer and was called Medary. Judge Palmer kept the first store in the town and erected a combination grist- and saw-mill, which was quite a curiosity to the early .settlers. The building was a frame structure, with the grist-mill above and the saw-mill below. The site of this once thriving village is now covered with fields of waving corn. The present officers of Liberty township are: Justices of the peace, John P^arley, of Leipsic; Louis Lammers and Mack Shaffer, of West Leip- sic; trustees, B. L Stechschulte, J. M. Smith and Peter Schey, of West Leipsic; clerk, Joseph Lammers, of West Leipsic; treasurer, P. H. Schey, of AVest Leipsic; constables, JeiTerson Ladd and Herb Dukes, of West Leipsic. WEST LEIPSIC. West Leipsic was laid out and platted in 1852. In the year 1850 John W. Peckenpaugh purchased the land where the village of West Leipsic now stands and had the first survey of twenty lots made, by Samuel Parker, county surveyor. A second and third survey was made in the following years, 1853-54, and completed the platting of all the lands now included in the town lying north of the Nickel Plate railroad. The first house built in the village was erected by John Shakely in 1850 and was known as the old Shakely house for a number of years. It was long used as a hotel and drug store. From 1850 to 1855 the first settlers of the town came in, these in- cluding the following: J. J. Lowry, who kept the first store in the town and, later, was elected the first justice of the peace; John Dehnert was the first blacksmith; Joseph Faber, first wagon maker; George Haskell, first cooper, and Dr. Samuel Emery was the first physician. The first white child born in the town was Louisa M. Lowry, daughter of J. J. Lowry, born on September 29, 1852. Later, Miss Lowry became the wife of Doctor Emery, one of the leading physicians of the county. The town was incorporated in 1882 with the following officials: R. Haskell, mayor; W. J. White, clerk; M, L. Pritchard, marshal; Thomas James, treasurer. The present officers are : Mayor, S. M. Tilbrook ; clerk. Earl J. Shafifer; treasurer, M. L. Pritchard; marshal, Joseph E. Miller; councilmen, F M. Bennett, J. I. Smith; W. J. Wooddell, Solomon Close; J. A. Montooth, Mack Shaffer. The population in 1910 was two hundred and fifty-three. Elm Center is another small hamlet in this township, being but a rail- COXTIXEXTAL TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AOO. CONTINENTAL IN 1914. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 125 road station on the Nickel Plate road. A similar village is Prentiss, a rail- road station on the Dayton, Toledo & Ifonton road. MONROE TOWNSHIP. Monroe is next to the youngest township in the county, being second only to Palmer. Cut off from Perry township in 1852, it has had a slow, but steady, growth since it started on its independent career. Like many other townships, its settlement was retarded on account of the general swampiness of its soil, and it was not until 1849 that its first permanent settler, Adam Perrin, made his appearance here. He seemed to have the whole 'township to himself for two years, or at least there is no record of any others until 1851, when John Grant risked his fortunes in the malaria- ridden district. In the same and following years appeared John and Eli Fickle, Hiram Madden, William Moore, D. D. Barnes, James Early, Sam- uel Birge, D. D. Murphy and Solomon McCuUough. At the first election, on April 5, 1852, there were only twelve votes cast and six of these electors were chosen to various offices, as follows: William Moore, John and Eli Fickle, trustees; James Early, clerk; John Grant, treasurer; Solomon McCullough, supervisor. At that time the town- ship consisted of one road and one school district. The first teacher was George Krites, who taught in a small cabin on section 5. The following are township officers at the present time: Justices of the peace, F. E. Treece, and E. L. Hartman; trustees, Frank Hall, J. W. Ernst and F. E. Treece, all of Continental; clerk, F. E. Moore, of Conti- nental; treasurer, R. W. Kissell, of Continental; constables, M. G. Pease and Daniel Noe, of Continental; ditch supervisor, J. L. Carroll, of North Creek. HARTSBURG. Continental is the chief town in Monroe township, but its history and growth will be dealt with in another chapter. Lying due west of Conti- nental three miles on the Nickel Plate railroad is a small hamlet which needs honorable mention. This aforesaid town is Hartsburg. The date of the platting of this village, if it was ever platted, cannot be ascertained. At present Hartsburg has one church and a school building. It is a stop on the Nickel Plate railroad. 126 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. WISTERMAN. Wisterman is also a small hamlet in this township. It was platted in 1883 by E. W. Dimock, for W. S. Daly, E. R. Eastman and Jane James, the proprietors. This town failed to materialize to any great extent and at present is merely a stop on the Toledo, St. Louis & Western railroad. Rice was once a postoffice for the convenience of country people, but at present is only an interurban stop. Continental, first called Marice City, was laid out and platted on March 23, 1888, by George Skinner for Gen. A. V. Rice. It was named in honor of the General's daughter, Mary Rice. At the time when the Nickel Plate railroad was constructed through Putnam county the land in the south- eastern part of Monroe township was one vast body of unbroken wilderness and swamp. The Rice road improvements were constructed in 1865 through the present site of Marice City and made this land productive and, with the intersection of two railroads, a very desirable location for a town. In 1888 the Buckeye Stave Company erected their stave factory on their addition which they had laid out the same year (James Belford, surveyor). In the same year Dr. B. D. Sparling" employed A. Overbeck to lay out and plat his first addition. In 1887 D. \Y. Seitz laid out and platted an addition for Gen. A. V. Rice, and the following year the same surveyor platted a second addi- tion for Dr. B. D. Sparling. Mr. Seitz also platted a second addition for the Buckeye Stave Company, in 1890, and the same year sub-divided outlot No. I of Rice's addition, for the district assessor, H. B. Pierce. In 1895 ^''• Seitz also platted a sub-division for W. H. Miller. The first store was opened up in Marice City by James Sullivan. This was followed, soon afterward, by a general store by the Buckeye Stave Com- pany, but was later purchased by H. B. Rose and Alvin Poe. James Bell built his present store room and opened up a general store in 1887. Others followed soon afterward. The town was incorporated March 22, 1888, with the following officers : Polk Berbage, mayor ; C. G. Ballman, clerk ; James Bell, treasurer; C. S. Parish, marshal; W. B. Miller, John Hutchison, Hiram Dellinger, George Hahn, Silas Colvin and John Shamberger, councilmen. At the time when the town was incorporated several of the citizens tried to get the name changed to Continental, but this was not accomplished until April 17, 1899, at the February term of court. Continental has been settled by business men who are ever striving" for the betterment of the town. New bank buildings and business houses have rUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 12/ been constructed, which give the town its present prosperous and enterprising- air. Its business interests consist of an elevator and milling company, the Continental and the Farmers bank, the Cloverleaf hotel, the Sanitary grocery, T. Hauck & Company's drug store, general stores, produce dealers, and mer- chants who cater to the wants of the town and country people. The present population of the town is more than one thousand. The present officers are: Mayor, H. C. Parrett; clerk, S. N. x\ller; treasurer, C. B. Shinabery; marshal, M. G. Pease; councilmen, W. PL Wright, W. C. Veach, Alonzo Spitler, John Minch, B. A. Manor and D. F. Owens ; trustees of public affairs, L. B. Guy, William Saegers and L. P. Crawfis. MONTEREY TOWNSHIP. The year 1848 witnessed some very marked changes in the territorial limits of Putnam county. In this year Auglaize county was organized by cutting off the southern part of Allen, which joins Putnam on the south. In order to equalize matters, a strip was detached from the southern part of Putnam and added to Allen — seven tiers of sections being detached from Riley township, six tiers from Pleasant (known as Monroe township), three tiers from Sugar Creek and a similar amount from Jennings. This took one hundred and fourteen sections from Putnam county, but the kind- hearted Legislature compensated Putnam by adding eighteen sections taken from Van Wert county. This strip, six by three miles, Hes immediately west of Jackson township and was organized as Monterey township in 1849. At the same time, five sections were detached from Jackson township and added to Monterey. This township was settled largely by Germans and is one of the strong- est Catholic township in the county. Henry Schroeder and Henry Upland, who came with their families in 1845, were the first permanent settlers. They were followed by Joseph Gruver (1846) and John Livingston, Jonas Dash, Conrad Henry and Bernard Esch (1847). Matthias Schroeder came in 1849. The first election, on January 19, 1850, at the house of Joseph Gruver, resulted in the selection of the following officials : Bernard Esch, Henry Schroeder and Joseph Gruver, trustees; Jonas Dash, clerk. The scarcity of population may be understood when it is known that only eleven votes were cast at this first election. W^hen the board of trustees met, on March 7, 1850, they proceeded to organize the township into two road and two school districts. 128 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. The Monterey township officials at present are : Justices of the peace, George Altenberger and J. H. Wannemacher ; trustees, Frank W. Ruen, Martin Miller, and James Weber; clerk, Frank Kromer; treasurer. Max Winkelman; constable, Jacob P. Studer. OTTOVILLE. There is only one town in Monterey township, Ottoville. The platting of Ottoville has had some marked and varied changes, as shown by the rec- ords for those acts. In 1845, Elias Everett, county surveyor, platted for John Otto Bredeick a parcel of land in the northeast corner of section 30. This survey was abandoned, however, and the land was again surveyed by Charles Wannemacher in 1873. The present site of Ottoville, by way of explanation, is platted in the corner of four sections, namely, sections 24, 25, 19 and 30. The numbering is due to the fact that the township was changed since the original survey. In 1863 Samuel Parker, county surveyor, laid out that part of the original town plot lying in section 19 for Christ Martin. This survey has been changed somewhat since that time. In 1865 F. J. Lye, with the serv- ices of George Skinner, surveyor, laid out an addition west of the canal in section 30. In 1874 Peter Wannemacher laid out an addition to Ottoville in section 25 and in 1883 Aaron Overbeck, surveyor, at the instance of Richard Gilmour, bishop of Cleveland, Ohio, resurveyed all that part of the town originally laid out in section 19. The same survey platted an ad- dition in section 19 for Max Winkleman during the year 1892. In 1894 Peter Wannemacher had another addition platted by D. W. Seitz, surveyor. The town was incorporated in 1890, with Joseph Wannemacher, mayor; J. C. Wannemacher, clerk; John Branderhoff, marshal; Matt Schu- lien, treasurer; V. H. Otte, Peter Wannemacher, B. Wannemacher, J. B. Mersman, J. J. Miller and WilHam Gasser, councilmen. This village is the center of a very prosperous farming community; situated on all sides are the well-tilled farms of the sturdy, industrious Catholics who make up this settlement. This is the home of St. Mary's Immaculate Conception church, one of the most beautiful churches in this part of the state. The business interests of the town have always assisted in every material way for the growth of the town and unison among its early settler^ was their strong characteristic. Ottoville is accommodated with a good bank, an up-to-date flouring- mill, stores and merchants whose goods are the very best. The town also PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 120 has paved streets and an excellent school system. The population in 19 lo was four hundred and seventy-seven, but has increased since that time. The officers at present are: Mayor, J. C. Wannemacher; clerk, Frank Kromer; treasurer, Joseph P. Hurst; marshal, William Grenlich; council- men, George Wannemacher, James Otte, Alph Bertling, W. T. Geier, John Van Oss, Alex Odenweller; trustees of public affairs, George Miehls, Ed Odenweller and J. J. Miller. ELECTRIC LIGHT AND POWER IN OTTOVILLE. In the fall of 1914, the town of Ottoville completed arrangements with the Electric Light and Power Company, of Delphos, Ohio, whereby the latter company agreed to furnish electric current for Ottoville at a definite rate. Delphos brought the current to the corporation line of Ottoville and then the latter wired it to its consumers in the town. The town has spent five thousand dollars in wiring, poles, meters, transformers, etc., and, although the first year has not yet passed, Ottoville already has one hundred and one consumers of light service and two consumers of power. The town operates twenty-five incandescent street lights, ranging in power from one hundred to two hundred and fifty kilowatts. Ottoville guaranteed the Delphos company a minimum of fifty dollars a month for the first six months and since then has been on a rate of one hun- dred dollars a month. The Ottoville consumers have a minimum rate of fifty cents a month and a rate of ten cents a kilowatt. The profits of the town for the first six months enabled it to pay for its street lighting, and as time goes on the town hopes to make a still greater profit. The service has proven satisfactory in every respect and the example of Ottoville will doubt- less soon be followed by other towns in the county. The local management of the utility is vested in the board of public affairs, consisting of J. J. Miller, George Miehls and Edward Odenweller. The clerk of the board is Frank Kramer, who acts as the manager and has general control of the installation of lights and the making of collections. FIRE DEPARTMENT OF OTTOVILLE. Ottoville is fortunately located in regard' to a bountiful supply of water, being at the crossing of the Little Auglaize and the canal. With a twenty- horse-power gasoline pumping engine, water can be thrown in two streams 9 130 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. over any and all buildings in the town from either the river or the canal. In addition, the town has a hand-pump which requires thirty men to operate, but, since the installation of the gasoline engine, this is necessary only in extreme cases. The town owns fifteen hundred feet of two and a half inch hose, \\hich is amply sufficient to carry water to any part of the town. It is interesting to note that in the whole history of the town there has never been more than one building burned down at one time. In fact, there have been no serious fires in tlie town for the past five years. There is a voluntary fire company of fifteen members, who receive twenty-five cents for attendance upon meetings, the number of meetings being limited to twenty-one a year. The members of the company are exempt from road tax, but receive no extra compensation for attendance at a fire. The presenf fire chief is Frank Kramer. Joseph P. VVurst is secretary and Joseph Vanoss is treasurer of the fire company. BUSINESS AND PR0FE,S.SI0NAL INTERESTS OF OTTOVILLE. Automobiles — Alfred Huysm.an. Bank — Ottoville Banking Company. Barber — Theodore Kramer, Blacksmiths — John Vanoss, John Zahn & Albert Schneider. Carpenters — John Wurst, Henry Ruen, L. L. Red. Cement Contractor — Frank Grubenhoff. Dentist — W. T. Morgan. Drayman — Martin Bendele. Druggist — W T. Remlinger. Elevator — Benjamin Wannemacher & Sons. Flour Manufacturer — E. L. Odenweller. Furniture — John Lauer. General Stores — J. J. Miller Company, F. F. Vincke. Hardware — Charles Wannemacher's Sons, George Wannemacher & Company. Hotel— G. E. Otte. Ice Dealers — Berkling & King. Jeweler — C. B. Wannemacher. Justice of the Peace — George Altenburger. Liver)' — Bendele & Miller. Lumber and Building Supplies — Schulien & Roth. Loans and Real Estate — George Altenburg. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. I3I Meat Market — Berkling & King. Millinery — Mrs. Frances Dehe, Mrs. Matthew Kramer. Musical Instruments — C. B. Wannemacher, W. T. Remlinger. Physician — J. F. Ockuley. Poultry Dealer — Griffis Produce Company. Photographer — Harry Niedecken. Painters and Paper Hangers — Fred Bohn, Charles Sellet. Restaurants — Albert Lane, Rayman Brothers. Saloons — G. H. Otte, ?\icholas Bedink. Stock Buyers — Conrad Fecker, Plesher & Brickner. Shoe Cobblers — W. T. Geier, Landing Rieger. Stone Crusher — Nicholas Lauer. Stone. Brick and Cement AVorkers — Peter Smith, J. F. Pittner. Tejephone — Jacob Studer, manager. Tile Manufacturer — George Miller. Tinner — George Rieger. Veterinary — Tohn Dietrich. OTTAWA TOWNSHIP. Ottawa township was organized in March, 1835, with a limited number of people who had settled in the township during the previous two years. One of the first white settlers in the township was Geoi-ge Agner, who came here in the year 1832 and, the following year, settled on a farm east of Ottawa. William Galbreath settled on the farm adjoining Ottawa in the same year. Mr. Galbreath served in the War of 18 12 and was present at the battle of Fort Meigs. William and Jonathan Y. Sackett, Henry Crawfis, Meridith Parish, Henry Ridenour, James Parish and Christian Huber are numbered with the pioneers of this township. The first election for township officers was held at Michael Row's tavern, April 6, 1835. At this election the following officers were elected: George Agner, William Galbreath and Joseph Adgate, trustees ; Michael Row, treas- urer; William Sackett, clerk; William Bowman, constable; Michael Row and William Galbreath, supervisors; Meridith Parish and Samuel Clark, overseers of the poor; Michael Row and Samuel Runyan, fence viewers. The first justices of the peace were elected on May 5, 1835, John Cox and William- Williams being chosen to fill this office. These men who were elected at this early date to fill the township 132 PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. offices were prominent in the affairs of the township and its most substan- tial citizens. It is noteworthy that some of the men filled more than one office, owing to the fact that the township was sparsely settled at this early date. The first school held in the township was taught by Christian Huber. It was held in a log cabin located northeast of the present waterworks of Ottawa. Mr. Huber was of German birth, well educated and took a promi- nent part in the early political affairs of the county. His pupils were a mixed assemblage of youths, a number of Indian boys being enrolled under him. The Indian boys, however, were loth to attend school regularly and frequently "played hookey," to hunt and fish. The "first tavern was built of hewed logs and was kept by Michael Row. This tavern was well patronized by early travelers and early meetings of the citizens were held here to discuss matters pertaining to the welfare of the township and the early settlers. The first saw-mill was located on the Blanchard river a short distance west of the Glandorf bridge. It was built by James Adgate and was well patronized by the early settlers, there being few saw-mills in the county at this time and a plentiful supply of timber. Since this was a famous settlement of the Indians, it need only be mentioned that the forests were full of wild game and the rivers afforded excellent fishing. Bears, deer, wolves, wild turkeys, and all kinds of small game were to be found here in abundance before the Indians gave it up as their hunting ground. The town of Ottawa was laid out by Aughinbaugh and Barnett in June, 1834. It was the site of the old Indian town of Lower Tawa, named after the tribe of Indians who had a reserve of about twenty-eight sections of land in this township. In 1832 the Indians sold this tract of land to the United States, and left for that part of the Indian territory which at present is a part of Kansas. The original town plat consisted of only one hundred and twenty-eight lots. This subject will be taken up more fully in another chapter. The present township officers are as follows : Justices of the peace, E. F. Wieser and John Cowan ; trustees, John E. Reinman, Joseph Klausing and John Diemer; clerk, J. A. Missler; treasurer, Harry Nienberg; con- stable, Erank Recker. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. I33 OTTAWA. The site where the village of Ottawa now stands was once a center of the Indian tribes of northeastern Ohio, but before the village proper was laid out, the Indians had bidden adieu to their once-famous abode. At the time the first settlers came to this part of the state to make permanent settle- ments, which was around 1825-30, there were but few Indians making their home in Tawa village. The Indians had ceded their reservation to the white man and were transferred to their new reservation in Kansas. However, only about two-thirds of them ever reached their new home, as they died of small- pox contracted on their journey. They were transferred to their new reser- vation under the management of a Mr. HoUister, of Perrysburg, who was the government's agent at that time. No startling events are characterized by the creation of the new hamlet and but little more than ordinary interest can be aroused by this discussion, outside of the recital of a few historical facts. A few Indians remained here as late as 1836-39, but they were friendly to the white man, and incidents have even been related where the white man stayed with the Indian until suitable quarters could be provided for his family. In the early part of the year 1833 a few families came to what had been until that time a reservation of the Ottawa Indians. In June of the fol- lowing year Messrs. Aughenbaugh and Barnett laid out the town as a ham- let. They gave it the name of Ottawa in honor of the tribe of red men who had occupied a few "shacks" constituting the Tawa village, located on what is now commonly called the Green. John and David Cox, C. T. Pomeroy, William Galbreath, Michael Row, Mr. Williams and Samuel Runyan and their families were about the only settlers here at this time and constituted almost the entire citizenship of the hamlet for several years. But slowly the hamlet was gathering in the sturdy and honest settlers who a short time later were going to be the strong force behind this village to make it the center of the county; the Indian tepee was gradually giving way to the- log cabin and civilization was beginning to claim, this fertile land which was soon to serve a better purpose than being the hunting grounds of the Indian. In 1834, when Ottawa was laid out, there were only five families in the place, those of John and David Cox, C. T. Pomeroy, William Galbreath and Michael Row. In addition, there were two men by the name of Williams and Runyan. At this late day, it is impossible to trace the growth of the 134 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. infant village, but it was not until the county seat was located here in li that the village began to assume respectable proportions. Michael Row built the first cabin on the site of Ottawa in May, 1834. This rude cabin served as the first tavern and became noted as a public house to all who had occasion to visit this section of the state. Many of the most eminent men of Ohio gathered around its festive board and drank the hard cider and still harder whiskey which the genial proprietor served to his guests. Row kept the tavern until his death and the old tavern, built more than four score years ago, is still standing. It was weather-boarded in 1877 and is now occupied by Falke & Kerner, monument dealers. The first frame house in the town was built by William Williams, a short time after Row erected his tavern. POSTOFFICE. The first postoffice was established in 1837 and was called Buckeye. This was made necessary because there was another postoffice by the name of Ottawa in the state. Buckeye continued to be the name of the postoffice until 1862, when, through the efforts of Dr. C. M. Godfrey, the name was changed to Ottawa. Dr. C. M. Godfrey was the first postmaster and Capt. F. S. God- frey was the village postmaster a few years later. Several years later, Cap- tain Godfrey became treasurer of the county. EARLY GROWTH. John Cox has the honor of being the first merchant in Ottawa and opened a general store in 1835. Dr. C. P. Pomeroy, the first physician, began to practice here in 1835. Dr. C. M. Godfrey came here in 1837 and studied under Doctor Pomeroy. In 1854 Doctor Pomeroy laid out the first addi- tion to the town. The prospect of the building of the Dayton & Michigan railroad caused an increase in population at this time, and the town began to exerience its first boom. Additions were laid out in 1858, 1859 and in 1865, the additions the latter 3-ears embracing a large portion of the eastern part of the town. On July 4, 1859, the railroad between Dayton and Toledo was completed and this event was celebrated in a manner befitting the occasion. This vear may be taken as the beginning of a new era in the history of Ottawa and from this time the town began to plan to get the county seat moved from Kalida to this place. Seven years were to elapse before this much-desired change was made and these seven years saw the rising village take on the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 135 airs of a real town. In February, 1861, it was incorporated and J. B. Fruchey became the first mayor. During the Civil AA'ar everything was quiet, but with the moving of the county seat from Kalida, in the fall of 1866, the town began to grow. All of the lawyers and many of the best people of Kalida moved to the new county seat and between 1866 and 1870 the population of Ottawa more than doubled. With this influx of people, a new energy was developed, and a new era inaugurated. The frolicsome pig was soon to seek a wallow on some other than the principal business streets and the family geese to find a roost- ing place other than the sidewalk in front of the business houses. In 1866 a newspaper was launched in the town and many new business enterprises were established. Among these may be mentioned the following: Cobb, Pierce & Squires, dry goods ; Cox, Bressler & Company, dry goods ; Godfrey & Row, tavern; C. Wormsley, shoe shop; G. W. Brown, ashery; W. T. Soper, cabinet shop ; David Cox, saw-mill ; McCurdy & Allen, saw-mill ; George B. Fuller, physician; T. J. Logan and J. B. Woodruff, lawyers; Col. J. L. H. Long, civil engineer; J. L. Olney, merchant. It may be mentioned in pass- ing, that Mr. Olney is the only one of all of these early merchants who is now living. He is spending his declining days in the town where he began his career as a merchant three score years ago. FIRST CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS. The first church erected in Ottawa was that of the United Brethren and this denomination still uses it as a house of worship. The first school house was a rude log structure erected in 1836. The first school teacher was Priscilla Compton, who afterwards became the wife of Isaac McCracken, a pioneer citizen of Kalida. The only other school in the township before that time was taught by Cliristian Huber in his cabin a short distance east of Ottawa. As the years went by, better educational facilities were demanded and today Ottawa boasts of three excellent school buildings. MORE RECENT GROWTH. The growth of the town was steady from this time and, unlike some of the towns which spring up and flourish for a short time and then die out, this village was destined to be the leading metropohs in the county. Through the efforts of Doctor Pomeroy is largely due the construction of the Dayton & Michigan railroad through Ottawa. This was completed and trains run in 136 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. November, 1859. The Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western was completed and rtains have run since 1894. The Detroit, Toledo & Ironton was constructed in 1896. At present Ottawa has three railroads and an electric line, which gives her all the transportation facilities required. PUBLIC BUILDINGS. The first court house was completed and the first court held was in 1868. However, court was held here the year previous. This was a brick structure and did credit to the times. The present court house is a beautiful and imposing edifice and no county seat in Ohio of the same size can boast of such a modern building. It is a three-story structure with all of the modern conveniences, includirig elevator, assembly room for public meetings, rest rooms and fully equipped rooms for all of the different county officials. The first county jail, was constructed in 1869 and was replaced by the present structure in 1900. The present building is located across the street from the court house and is very modern and well equipped for the needs of the lawless unfortunates. WATER WORKS. The Ottawa water works was completed in the year 1904. In 1892 the Legislature adopted the municipal code and created the board of public affairs. The first board appointed in Ottawa consisted of the following enterprising citizens: George D. Hamden, Dr. H. Huber, and George D. Kinder, the latter being chosen as the president of the board. Doctor Huber served for one year, when he resigned, and W. H. Harber was appointed to fill the vacancy. Subsequently Messrs. Kinder, Hamden and Rauh were elected for two years and have filled the office up to the present time, being re- elected every two years. Through the efforts of these three men the present water works system was installed. The water works is located in the city park, which is on the east side of the town. This park is a very pretty amusement place for a village of this size. Numerous cages of animals and birds have been placed here and it is fitted up for the amusement of the children. Ottawa also has an excellent volunteer fire department and is the equal of any volunteer company in this section of the state. They have given good service on many occasions and have even made runs to different towns in the county which were in distress. On one occasion two of the firemen < O -4. .••gj^^}/. ''^ fa' PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 137 lost their lives while fighting fire. The equipment at the present is of the best and recently a gasoline fire truck was purchased. Th opera house furnishes an excellent place for amusements and social gatherings. The armory is another imposing structure which the citizens of this village may well be proud of. The industries consist of a tile factory, elevator and milling company, creamery, lumber yards, two cigar factories and numerous smaller industries. The people of the town are accommodated with four churches, the Meth- odist Episcopal, Roman Catholic, United Brethren and Presbyterian. These churches are well attended and speak well for the religious interests of the community. The roads leading into Ottawa are macadamized and graveled and there are four iron bridges within the limits of Ottawa spanning the Blanchard river. Ottawa's business is conducted through the Bank of Ottawa Company and the First National Bank. The following is a directory of the business houses at the present time : Hotel — Dumont. Dry Goods— T. C. Hipkins & Son, J. W. Brown, G. W. Meffley. Hardware — E. L. Frey, O. C. Wilson and Son. Clothing — Wise Clothing Company, Rampe Store Company, D. A. Frick. Druggists — A. R. Robenalt & Son, Gerding & Company, and Blosser. Pianos — Schute & Butler. Furniture and Undertaking — Heringhaus & Pope, J. H. Gallagher. Grocery— C. I. Moore, G. D. Hamden, P. D. Ward and R. A. Alt. Shoes — John O. Cartwright. Meat Market — Grise & Grise, Smith & Son, Adam H. Zeherer. Five and Ten-cent Stores — S. Rappaport, Stroup. Jewelers — F. T. Sprague and A. F. Beckman. Roofing — John Hornung and Doepker & Westrick. Harness — William Klausing and Charles Martin. Farm Implements — G. H. Knettle. Tailors — Joseph Jessing, A. J. Banning and T. F. McElroy. Marble Works — Falke Bros. & Kerner. Baker — Home Bakery Company. Lumber Company — Robert Hixon. Fraternities — Free and Accepted Masons f lodge, chapter and council), Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, Knights of the Maccabees, Modern Woodmen of America, Reindeers, Royal Arcanum, 138 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Knights of Columbus, Catholic Knights of Ohio, National Union, Grand Army of the Republic. THE SUGAR BEET INDUSTRY. The largest factory in Putnam county is the sugar beet factory in Ottawa, a plant which cost more than a quarter of a million dollars and was operated for only two seasons. The inception of the factory dates back to 191 1, when some men came to the county for the purpose of seeking a location for such a factory. So enthusiastic were they over the possibilities of making a sugar beet factory a profitable undertaking in the county that they were soon able to convince the people of Ottawa and the county that they should assist in making the establishment of a factory an assured thing. Before the close of 1911 the citizens of Ottawa had entered into an agree- ment with the Ottawa Sugar Beet Company, in which they agreed to raise for the company eight thousand dollars and guarantee the planting of one thousand acres of beets the first year. The money was expended for land south of the Blanchard river, located in the Cover-Matthews-Rice addition. Thirty-four acres were secured and turned over to the company. In turn, the company agreed to erect and equip a plant and operate it for a period of five years. In case they did not live up to their part of the agreement the property was to revert to the citizens who had voluntarily subscribed the eight thousand dollars. Although the plant was operated only two years, the company did not turn the plant over, and just who really does own it at the present time is for the court to decide. In the spring of 1915 the plant was advertised for sale to cover delinquent taxes, but no one had the courage to assume the responsibility of taking it on their hands. A mammoth building was erected in 191 1 -12 and was ready to handle the 19 1 2 crop of beets. General Manager Martine was placed in charge of the plant and during the first season manufactured a million and a half pounds of sugar. This amount was increased by a third the second year and there did not appear any good reason why the plant was not a success in every wa}\ However, strange things will happen. At the close of the second season the plant was closed down and the Imge building has remained deserted ever since. AVhen it ^^'ill be opened for business again no one seems to know, nor is there any certainty that it will ever be operated again. In addition to the manufacture of sugar, a man from fronton, Ohio, put in a hundred-thousand-dollar equipment for taking care of the by-products. He made a kind of stock food, which found a PUTNAM COUNTYj OHIO. 139 ready sale in the market and he was apparently making a success of his busi- ness at the time the factory closed. He had to be content with getting out of the business with the experience he gained, since his investment was a com- plete loss on his hands when the factory ceased operation. During the two years the factory was in operation, Ottawa enjoyed a reign of prosperity which it had never before known. Many men found employment in the factory and many more secured work in raising the beets. Scores of Belgians came into the county and found ready employment with farmers. Most of them were unmarried men and traveled from farm to farm in wagons which they had fitted up in such a manner that they could live in them. They contracted with many farmers to take entire charge of their crop, from planting to harvesting, for which they received eighteen dol- lars an acre. One man could not tend much more than fi\'e acres alone and hence it was necessary to secure additional help if the farmer was- going to raise anything else except tomatoes. The profit to the farmer varied from iifty to a hundred dollars an acre and probably averaged seventy-five dollars an acre. Only an unrefined brown sugar was manufactured and, strange to say, the company refused to sell a pound of the sugar to any one in the county. Most of the sugar was shipped to Cincinnati and distributed from that city. The amount of sugar derived from a ton of beets varied considerably, rang- ing from one hundred to two hundred pounds. Each load of beets was tested for its sugar value and the farmer was paid accordingly to the amount of sugar which it was supposed his beets would yield. The farmer received on an average of five dollars a ton for his beets. At the same time that the local factory was in operation many farmers shipped their beets out of the county. Most of them went to factories in Toledo and Findlay, the Toledo company having a buying station at Conti- nental. Many reasons have been advanced in explanation of the shutting- down of the factory, but no two persons can agree as to what the real facts in the case are. Some have said that the machinery which was installed was second-hand and was not capable of making the company a reasonable profit. Others say that the tariiT was to blame and that the Democratic party must shoulder the responsibility; still others maintain that the tariff has nothing to do with the matter — that the men in it simply fleeced the people out of their money and left for greener pastures. The facts as they stand now are very evident : the factory still stands and is ready to operate at any time, but no one knows whose factory it is. Within the next year the courts will estab- lish the status of the factory and the people of Ottawa and Putnam county 14° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. are of the belief that it will soon be in operation. Time solves all mysteries — even beet sugar industries. POSTMASTERS OF OTTAWA. Due to the fact that there was another Ottawa in Ohio in 1837, the postoffice at Ottawa, Putnam county, was called Buckeye from the establish- ment of the office in 1837 to 1862. In the latter year C. M. Godfrey suc- ceeded in having the postoffice department at Washington, change it to Ottawa. C. M. Godfrey was appointed postmaster upon its establishment in 1837, but it has not been possible to get the other postmasters up to i860. The complete list since i860 is as follows : August Schierloh, James R. Clark, James Godwin, Hiram Raff, T. D. Campbell, J. J. Zeller, J. C. Light, H. L. M"cDowell, Allan Graham, and G. F. Zeller, the present incumbent. FINANCES OF THE TOWN OF OTTAWA. The last annual report of the financial conditions of the town of Ottawa gives a detailed statement of all receipts and expenditures for the year 19 14. The present officers of the town are as follows : T. ¥. McElroy, mayor ; H. C. Gerding, clerk; J. W. Paden, treasurer; Edward Klausing, marshal; W. J. Graham, A. T. Fox, George Schulien, Herman McDougle, C. J. Kerner and J. H. Westrick, councilmen ; G. D. Hamden, H. F. Rauh and G. D. Kinder, board of public affairs. Josejjh Kersting is clerk of the board of public affairs. The money derived from fees and taxes is divided into six funds, as follows : general, safety, service, health, sinking and water. The receipts and expenditures of these various funds for the year ending December 31, 1914, are as follows: Fund. Receipts. Expenditures. Balance. General $ 3,206.81 $ 2,644.80 $ 562.01 Safety 5,313-47 5,001.54 3ii-93 Services 6,316.33 5,932-00 384-33 Health 164.60 134-40 30.20 Sinking 29,773.02 28,855.58 917-44 Water 7,434.66 6,946.19 488.47 Totals $43,793-68 $45,664-51 $2,694.38 'f. 7. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. I4I The town treasury had a balance of $4,565.21 left over from the previous year, which accounts for the balance at the end of 1914. The bonded in- debtedness of the town is divided among five items, to-wit : Water works $50,000.00 Main street 7,5oo.oo Defiance street 79S-oo East Main street 360.00 Armory site 3,000.00 R. R. avenue. Oak and Locust streets 10,898.63 Total $72,553-63 The salaries of the main town officials are nominal, the mayor drawing only two hundred dollars a year. The salaries of the other town officers are as follows: Clerk, $260; treasurer, $250; sohcitor, $150; councilmen, $42 ; marshal, $480 ; night watch, $480. GLANDORF. Rev. Mr. Horstmann, a native of Prussia, left the Fatherland in August, 1833, and arrived in New York in November following. Father Horst- mann and his companion, John F. Kahle, left Detroit on November 27 in search of a suitable location on which to found his proposed colony. Border- ing on the banks of the Blanchard river they found excellent timberland and, in January, 1834, they determined on purchasing a tract of it from the government. The names of the pioneers who came in February are : A. Iburg, Christian Strop, J. Wischmann, Ferdinand Bredeick, Matthias Bock- rath and William Gulcher. The colonists erected log cabins and these were provided with only the barest necessities of life. In laying out the village of Glandorf, the pioneers held very closely to the custom of the Province of Osnabruck, Germany, whence its founders came. There is but one street deserving the name and that extends over a mile north and south. This street is lined on either side with the quaint, durable and homelike houses of the villagers with their spacious and well-kept yards, the street being interspersed here and there with a few stores and shops. The early industries of Glandorf were shoemaking, woolen-mill, wooden-shoe manufactory and saw-mills, and it is well to note that in 1837 Father Horstmann built the first grist-mill in the village of Glandorf for the accommodation of the early settlers. ^4- PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. The early records fail to record the date of the first platting, but, on January 20, 1877, by an order of the court, it was re-surveyed and the lots were numbered. The village had no municipal form of government until August 7, 1 89 1, when it was incorporated as a town, with William Alte- kruse, ma)'or; F. W. Hoffman, clerk; Joseph Nienberg, treasurer; Fred Franke, marshal ; John Smith, street commissioner ; W. F. Hofifman, Henry Kemper, Henry Merseman, Dr. A. Borman, B. F. Wortkoetter and Joseph Winkleman, councilmen. Glandorf for many years was a great boot and shoe center of the county and boasts of the only woolen-mills in the county. The flouring-mill at Glandorf bears the distinction of being- the first in the state using the system of rollers known as the Allfree system, which were put in by Mr. Nartker. This little village also boasts of a large bending works, operated by F. N. Ellis, and a planing-mill, but on the night of Aug'ust 2, 1901, fire was discovered in the planing-mill and before assistance could be called it had made such headway that it was impossible to extinguish. The loss was twenty-five thousand dollars and this was a very severe shock to the town. At present the Americanized German village is well represented in all the different lines of business and does an extensive trade with the surrounding farmers. The population in 1910 was five htmdred and fifty-eight. The present ofiicers are : Mayor, P. A. Missler ; clerk, J. A. Missler ; treasurer, B. A. Nienberg; marshal, Ferd Gulker; councilmen, G. H. Mers- man, Moritz Harman, J. W. Halker, Fred Franke, Aug Nartker and Charles Mallifske. BRICKNER. New Cleveland is a small hamlet lying three miles north of Ottawa. Its postoffice is called Brickner. One store and a few houses make up the settlement. PALMER TOWNSHIP. Palmer township was the last one organized in the county and dates its independent existence from 1854, previous to which time it had been known as North' Greensburg. It was named in honor of Judge Palmer, an eminent jurist who had served on the bench in Putnam county with uni- versal satisfaction to the people of the county. The late organization of this township was due to the lack of a sufficient population to justify its creation. ITTNAM COTNTV, OHIO. I43 By the fall of 1854 the citizens resident within the proposed township satis- fied the commissioners that the creation of a new township was necessary, and the commissioners accordingly ordered an election for January i, 1855. The thirteen voters selected the following corps of officials: John Frazee, John Kerns and John S. Welch, trustees; John Hamilton, treasurer; David Caldwell, clerk; John Kerns, justice of the peace; David Caldwell, con- stable. This combination of Johns and Davids started the township on its independent career, and although sixty years have come and gone since they were elected, yet many men are still living in the township who can recall these excellent citizens. Palmer township is situated in what was then known as the "Black Swamp," a descriptive term which fitly explains the reason why the town- ship was so slow in being settled. The beavers threw hundreds (jf trees across the sluggish North and South Powell creeks and the water, thus dammed up, spread over a goodly portion of the area of the township. Old residents can still recall how these unique dams had to be torn out before the land could be drained. Many }'ears elapsed before the streams were cleared of the obstructions in such a way that artificial drainage could be secured to any advantage. At the present time nearly all of the town- ship has been brought under cultivation and no better land is to be found in the county than that which was until, a few years ago covered with from one to two feet of water. The present .Palmer township officers are as follows : Justices of the peace, George A. Alt and John S. Schaf er ; trustees, Martin Gebhardt, Laurence Seimet and James Troyer ; clerk, William R. Stuber ; treasurer, C. C. Schaf er ; constables, John Seimet and William La Fountain. MILLER CITY. The same year that marked the beginning of the once famous little town of Hector saw the birth of another village in Palmer township. Miller City, although taking a slow growth at first, was destined to a longer life ihan her sister city. It was, laid out and platted by Aaron Overbeck on August 22, 1882, and dedicated under the name of St. Nicholas, by Nicholas Noriot and Nicholas Miller, the proprietors of the two parcels of land upon which the village plat was located. The country around this village became a veritable garden spot after it had become thoroughly drained of its swamps and was known as the South Prairie. Large and small garden and farm produce was raised in 144 • PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. abundance and Miller City became the shipping point for these enormous crops, as well as much of the timber and lumber products manufactured in its vicinity. Stores were established under this impetus and the town grew with such rapidity that Mr. Miller deemed it necessary to lay out new additions, which he did in 1884 and 1887. Upon petition to the county commissioners, the town was duly incorpo- rated on November 26, 1890, under the name of Miller City, being so named for the original proprietor, Nicholas Miller, to whose energy and business tact the growth and progress of the village was largely due. This city, situated as it is on the Nickel Plate railroad, which affords it a ready outlet to eastern markets, is certain to make advances. The Miller City Tile Company is one of the greatest industries at the present time and, with her other business establishments, the town has assurance of the country trade. The present officers of the town are as follow : Mayor, J. M. Dobneyer ; clerk, F. E. Kern; treasurer, William Hohenbrink; marshal, Jacob Warna- mont; councilmen, C. M. Huber, Frank Gasken, John Noon, Joe Snaiger, L. P. Maxwell, Oswell Brown. The population in 19 10 was three hundred. KIEFERVILLE. Kieferville was laid out and platted by D. A. Kiefer, the surveying and platting being the work of ex-County Surveyor Lewis E. Holtz, in 1870. This town was laid out on the old Continental railroad grade, the Nickel Plate railroad having taken over this proposed line a few years later and used it for their main line, and the Defiance pike, which crosses the Nickel Plate at this point. The town has experienced no booms and has struggled along with its existence. A hotel, church and general stores accommodate the inhabitants of this little village. Kieferville bears the distinction of being the first town laid out in Palmer township. NORTH CREEK. North Creek was the second town laid out in Palmer township. It was platted in 1879, and lies on the Clover Leaf railroad. The first lots were surveyed for William Schafer, who was a man of energy, and the pro.sperity and growth of North Creek were due to his efforts. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. I45 HECTOR. Hector was platted and laid out on December 26, 1882. This town was the home of the Hector Stave Company, which was one of the largest and leading industries of this county until the timber was exhausted. The town was platted by E. W. Dimmock, county, surveyor, and named in honor of Hector Havemeyer, one of the members of the company. The growth of this little village was very rapid and at the height of its prosperity it was the center of the mercantile trade of that locality. The Hector store, through its standard methods and square dealings, was known throughout Putnam county. The proprietors of Hector were liberal in contributing their efforts and means toward the development of the town. The Hector Creamery and Cheese Company was organized in 1891 and the first creamery in the county was thus started. Churches, school build- ing and a Knights of Pythias lodge hall were built through the contributions of this company. The history and growth of the company will be taken up in another chapter. With the exhaustion of the timber, the prosperity of the town began to wane and at the present time this once flourishing town and commercial center is nothing more than a railroad stop. PERRY TOWNSHIP. Perry was the first township organized in what is now Putnam county and dates from 1828. It was named in honor of Commodore Perry and at first included all of the territory now in Putnam county. It has been decreased from time to time, as new townships were organized, until it now has thirty-six square miles. It was given its present limits in 1848, when the south tier of sections was attached to Jackson township. The early history of the township is shrouded in more or less obscurity, due to the fact that the first records have been lost. The first settlers appear to have located near the junction of the Auglaize and Blanchard rivers. The best evidence points to Robert Wallen, who settled there in 181 9, as the first actual settler in the township. He was followed in 1821 by David Murphy, Thomas McClish, Silas McCIish and Sebastian Shroufe, with their respective families. The last-named pioneer is credited with planting the first nursery in the county and it was from this that a large number of the orchards of the county re- ceived their start. Other settlers came in during each succeeding year until, 10 146 PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. by 1828, there were enough to justify the organization of a separate town- ship. In 1823 came Andrew Craig, Daniel Sullivan, William Bowen and a man by the name of Cavanaw. William Harrell located in the township in 1825, and in the following year John Ridenour and Dimmit Mackrill cast their fortunes with the new settlement in the township. The year 1827 saw William Bishop, Joseph Frazee, Joel Wilcox, Abel Crossley and a few others locating in the new settlement. Following the formal organization of the township in 1828, an election was ordered held at the house of Sebastian Shroufe. At that time the following officers were elected : William Harrell, Abel Crossley and John Ridenour, trustees; Silas McClish, clerk; Joel Wilcox, treasurer; William Bishop, supervisor; Sebastian Shroufe, justice of the peace; Dimmit Mack- rill, constable. This Dimmit Mackrill was a man of energy and was deeply interested in the welfare of his township and county. A story is told of him which goes to show how zealous he was in the discharge of his duties. In 1832 he was road supervisor for his own township, but for some reason he thought his district took in the whole county. Accordingly, he notified all the men living along the Blanchard river, from the mouth of the river to the Han- cock county line, to appear on a certain day for work on the south side of the Auglaize river. As might be expected, some of the settlers appeared for work on the appointed day, while others did not. Whether Mackrill was really in ignorance of the size of his district, history does not record, but it is safe to say that the stout old pioneers who worked on that day did valiant service in improving the road in cjuestion. The first election in Perry township was held at the house of Sebastian Shroufe in 1828, and at that time the following officers were elected: William Harrell, Abel Crossley and John Ridenour, trustees; Silas McCHsh, clerk; Joel Wilcox, treasurer; William Bishop, supervisor; Sebastian Shroufe, justice of the peace; Dimmit Mackrill, constable. The present officers of the township are as follows : Justices of the peace, W. H. Fensler and Steven Wannamacher; trustees, John Carder, W. T. Etter and Gilbert McClish; treasurer, P. A. Scharf ; constables, C. C. Etter and Ed Lehmkule ; ditch supervisor, D. H. Nutt. Although Perry is the oldest township in the county, it has been im- proved slower than any other, due to the fact that so much of the land was swampy in character. Within the past quarter of a century the town- ship has made rapid strides and now ranks favorably with other townships PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 147. in the county along all lines. The population of the township in 1910 was one thousand five hundred and eighty-one. FRANCONIA. Franconia was the first town laid out in the township. It was laid out by Amos Kendall in 1837 and the first store was kept by Parlee Carlin. A double log cabin, which was featured by Howe as a "Home in the Wilder- ness," was erected by Sebastian Shroufe, and P. B. Holden later kept a tavern in the same building. While Franconia was a flourishing little center of trade for a number of years, it has long since disappeared and nothing now remains of what was once hoped would be a substantial town. Other towns in this township include Cloverdale (Drucilla), Dupont, Cascade and Huntstown. DUPONT. Dupont was for many years the largest town in the township. It was platted in 1877 and named in honor of Rear Admiral S. F. Dupont, of the United States navy, a postoffice of that name having been established in the year 1864. The mail route at that time rail from Ottawa to Charloe, twenty-six miles, and was traveled once a week. In 1877 the Toledo, Delphos & Indianapolis narrow gauge railroad was built through the village; in 1888 the entire route was changed to a standard gauge and known as the Toledo, St. Louis & Kansas City railroad. Dupont was incorporated in 1888 and E. W. Dimock was chosen. to serve as the first mayor. This village began to grow and its prosperity seemed assured, but occasionally the healthiest child fails to become the strongest man. In the height of the town's prosperity there were two stave-mills which did an extensive business, two hotels, tile-mill, saw-mills, an axe- handle factory, and five general merchandise stores. The population of the town was about seven hundred. Then came the decline. The first blow which Dupont had to endure was the failure of the timber and, in consequence, the removal of the stave factories, her chief industry. The second blow came with the building of the Nickel Plate railroad across the Clover Leaf at Continental, and the final step was the construction of the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western through Cloverdale, just two and one- half miles south of the village. The present population is about three hundred. A tile factory, a general store, grocery and hardware store represent her business interests. The 148 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. school facilities are very good. The present officials are: Clerk, T. R. Hart; treasurer, W. T. Etter; marshal, Allen Williams; councilmen, C. C. Etter, George Etter, Thomas McClish, Sol. Wollam, R. C. Brandt and William Spencer. CASCADE. Cascade lies on the west bank of the Auglaize river and on the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western railroad, a branch of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad. It vv^as platted in 1892 by E. W. Dimmick, for Charles Andrews. Myers' mill, the first in the county, was located here, and its owner, Samuel Myers, was one of the most prominent citizens of the village for many years. In fact, the place was locally known as Myers' Mill for many years and even to this day it is probably as well known by this name as that of Cascade. At the present time nothing is left but the remains of the old mill, and it ground its last grist many years ago. The site of the former village is picturesque and thousands of people make it a picnic ground every year. CLOVERDALE. Cloverdale is situated at the junction of the two railroads crossing the township and dates its existence from 1891. It was surveyed and platted by E. W. Dimmick for W. H. and E. M. Mozier, Tunis and Nora Truax and Austin and Mary Combs, the proprietors. The first postoffice was called Drucilla. Although there had been a town here since the construction of the Cloverleaf railroad in 1877, which was known as Evansville, it was never platted, and when the new town was platted the name Cloverdale was given and the former name gradually disappeared. It was incorporated on April II, 1902. The first officers were T. J. Ludwig, clerk ; Anthony Holguve, treasurer ; Peter Harris, marshal ; William Struker, J. A. L. Harris, John Heitzman and Austin Combs, trustees ; Austin Combs was the first squire and William Corkwell the first constable. Settlers who located here as early as 1877 were. Pope Burbage, who ran the first saloon ; George Price, who kept the first store ; Hollis Hanson, who ran the first saw-mjll; Nathan Dalton, who had the first wagon and paint shop, and Austin Combs, the first postmaster. The first house was built by Irvin Follis and the hotel by Joseph Gingrich. In 1891 the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western railroad was built through the town and it began a steady growth. The tile factory, saw and hub-mill, lumber yards, ele- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. I49 vator and other smaller industries located here in close succession. A town hall was erected in 191 3, at a cost of three thousand dollars, and the place at present has a population of three hundred. Two churches, grade and parochial schools, and the present general prosperous air of the town give evidence of the thrift and business ability of its settlers. It bids fair to become a thriving" little village. The town officers are as follows : Mayor, P. A. Scharf ; clerk, O. B. Andrews ; treas- urer, L. B. Mason; marshal, Edward Lehmkuhle; councilmen, John Blosser, John Berhude, Theo. Horstman, R. E. Baxter, Ben Andrews, and Fred Kohl. PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. The first settlements in Pleasant township were made in 1832 by William Turner, Eckless Ney, McDonald Osborn, Henry Morris, James Porter and William McComb. Late in November of the following year John Featherin- gill came in with his family. Mr. Featheringill secured lodging in an Indian camp until he could hew logs and erect a cabin. John Bogart purchased a farm in the following year' and moved on it in March. Adam and James Turner were the next to cast in their lot in the early settlement. In 1834 the township took on a permanent organization. There were at this time only seven voters in the township and it was through their efforts that the organization was accomplished. Following are the names of the voters : John B. Bogart, William and Adam Turner, Neham Smith, John Featheringill, Abe Fuller and William Casebolt. There is no record of the first officers, but it is certain that they were divided among these early voters, though just what offices each held can not be ascertained. In 1839 the town- ship contained about one hundred inhabitants and fifteen to twenty voters. The public road, leading from Wapakoneta to Perrysburg, was laid out about 1835, but was not opened for public use until some time later. The first births in the township were twins, Martha and Rebecca, daughters of William Turner, in 1833. The first death was an infant child of McDonald Osborn, which died in December, 1833, and was the first burial in the grave- yard at Truro church. The first log school house was erected in 1836, about half a mile north- east of Columbus Grove, and here John Wamsley conducted the first school in the winter of 1836-37. The postoffice was established in 1844, with Adam Turner as the first postmaster. The first manufacturing interests established here was an ashery and a 150 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. clay pottery factory, by a Mr. Durfee. A store of supplies was later opened by Sheldon Guthrie. The trade consisted of exchanging furs for goods, as money was very scarce. A good hunting hound was valued at one hundred dollars and the government purchased wolf scalps for three and four dollars, this furnishing the settlers with money to pay their taxes. The first religious services were held in a log cabin belonging to John Bogart, in 1834. The first sermon was rendered by a young man named Cutler, of the Methodist Episcopal faith. In the same year Rev. Mr. Morris, of the Protestant Methodist church, came to this township and held services. Later, Michael Long, who was known as the boy preacher, of the United Brethren church, came to this settlement. In 1836 a Rev. Poge (or Page), of the Presbyterian faith, came to this township and organized the first church of that order here. The Baptists held services at the home of James Turner at an early date. The present township officials are as follow : Justices of the peace, A. Crawford, L. E. Mullin and Henry Buck; trustees, B. F. Irwin, G. W. Bowess and William Trask ; clerk, F. M. AVilliams ; treasurer, Elias Williams ; constables, H; L. Irwin and G. W. Luce. COLUMBUS GROVE. The village of Columbus Grove was laid out and platted in December, 1842, by Capt. Frederick Fruchey, the proprietor. It was surveyed and platted for the proprietor by Benjamin Dunning. Captain Fruchey and most of the early settlers came from Columbus, Franklin county, and the site of this town being a famous Indian sugar grove, hence the name. The first house built in Columbus Grove was a log dwelling, erected by John Mumea on the lot where the Lenhart block now stands. The first frame dwelling was built by Samuel Sterlin, who also erected the first brick struc- ture in the village. The first manufacturing establishment was an ashery and pottery, built and operated by the Durfey brothers. They manufactured black salts and pearl ash, and, in the pottery, crocks, jugs and other earthen wares. In 1843 Sheldon Guthrie erected a small building on a lot near the Durfeys' establishment and opened a small supply store, exchanging goods for furs, there being but little money in this new country. Columbus Grove was incorporated in 1864 by John J. Baker and others. The first officers were David Jones, mayor ; S. B. McHenry, clerk. The first tavern was built by James Pier. This was a hewed-log structure, three rooms on the ground floor and two on the second. Among the business men of the town in 1850, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 15 1 in addition to the ones previously mentioned were : Leeman Woodruff, J. B, Jones, Evan R. Davis and E. W. Greene. Theodore Kunneke came to this village in 1853. lie built a saw-mill for Jonathan Brice, and later a mill to grind corn and buckwheat was added. After finishing this contract, Mr. Kunneke purchased two corner lots at the junction of High and Sycamore streets, upon each of which he erected a two- story frame building for business and dwelling. The Kunneke block now stands on one of these lots. A. H. Day came to this viUage in i860 and opened up a store. He has contributed as much in the way of substantial buildings as any of its citizens. The New Grove House and the Opera House block were erected by him. Other settlers who followed a short time later and have been large contributors to the material side of the town are : Simon Maple, David Jones, W. W. Williams, Thomas Jones, Robert and J. M. G. Patterson. The Dayton & Michigan railroad was built through this town in 1859 and ran the first train on July 12 of that year. In 1882 the Pittsburg, Akron & Western was constructed, and in 1895 the Lima Northern was built. The growth of this village is not surprising with its excellent railroad facil- ities and the enterprising business men at its helm. The officers of Columbus Grove are as follows : Mayor, W. G. Poast ; clerk, Curtis Magher; treasurer. Jay Hartman; marshal, G. J. Doty; council- men, Benton Martz, W. M. Crawford, R. C. Deffenbaugh, C. M. Doty, Lemuel Bogart, Bert Holmes; trustees of public affairs, J. H. Eversole, Henry Light, H. R. Day. The following is a list of the business and professional interests of Columbus Grove: Industries — The Jones handle factory, Columbus Grove Tile Company, Light Lumber Company, Sarber cement block and tile factory, Kissels Poultry and Ice Company, Faze coal yards and cement block factory, McAdams Seed Company, Parker Sanitarium, Columbus Grove Grain Company, Annesser Milling Company, People's Elevator, Jones harness factory, Losh laundry, Williams monument factory, Johnson's Poultry Company, Buckeye garage, Slusser garage. Stores — H. R. Day, dry goods and groceries ; Home Industry, dry goods and groceries; Louis Mapel, clothing; C. E. Magher, grocery; A. K. Sarber, grocery ; J. B. Ehrnman, grocery ; R. P. Hartman, grocery ; Billingsly & Son, grocery ; Bert Holmes, druggist ; S. E. Lewis, druggist ; Humphrey & Sterling, undertaking; Elmer E. Morris, jeweler and optician; Luce & Shinna- berry, meats and groceries ; Jones & Kidd, shoes ; Stan Sakemiller, shoes ; A. 15^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. A. Starkwether, implements; Martz & Jones, implements; M. C. Sterling, clothing; Stephens & Kraus, harness and repairing; Lena Smith, millinery; Frost & Gladfelter, meat; Williams Brothers, hardware; W. E. Pease, hard- ware; Levi Basinger, notion store; H. H. Hollis, pianos; Daniels book store; Daniel Slusser, feed store. Other Business — R. P. Killen, dentist; A. B. Hilty, dentist; Wittenburg Hotel ; L. E. Bogart, restaurant ; Llaller, restaurant ; Charles Murhab, fruit and ice cream ; Trice, livery ; Bowman, livery ; Norris, barber shop ; Strow & Cox, barber shop ; Wilbur Saunders, barber shop ; George Buck, barber shop ; Trask, barber shop ; C. M. Doty, billiard and pool ; Port Tegarden, billiard and pool; Smith & Tate, sale and feed barn: Eversole, smith and repairing; John Davis, horseshoeing. Banks — Peoples and Exchange. Doctors— E. A. Balmer, Walter C. Corns, H. H. Sink, G. H. Wilcox, W. H. Begg, Isaac Fullerton. Columbus Grove, being situated in a very rich agricultural community and with excellent railway facilities, is able to bear the reputation of being one of the largest shipping centers of live stock in the state. The annual shipments of live stock are, normally, three hundred and twenty-five cars ; grain, hay and straw, four hundred and fifty cars; sugar beets, two hundred cars; other shipments, including eggs, dressed poultry, wool, handles, etc., sixty-eight cars. RILEY TOWNSHIP. The organization of Riley township dates from 1834 and at that time included the present township of Richland (Allen county), in addition to its present area. The first settler, Thomas Gray (1832), was followed the next year by John Sigafoose, Adam Stout, Moses Rice, Bildad Hubbard and B. F. Dunning. The year 1834 brought in a large number of families, in- cluding those of George Bushong, Thomas Lake, James Bunn, J. D. Wams- ley, William Hand, John Hand, Jacob Clover, George Eamum, Myron Rice, Isaiah Cook, N. H. Bagley, Peter Rice, William Thrapp, George Black- burn, George Alkire, Stephen Cortright and George Wilson. Jesse Hall and a few others located in the township in the following year. All of these early settlers were known as Yankees and were sturdy pioneers, well fitted to cope with the clangers and privations of frontier life such as faced them when they settled here. Before 1835, however, the German migration to this township began. COLUMBUS GROVE IN ISHl. COLUMBUS GROVE IN 1014. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 153 These settlers were natives of Switzerland, although of German descent. Daniel Nicewander and Dorse Amstutz settled here in 1833 and were fol- lowed in the succeeding year by Christian Suter, Christian Basinger and Christian Bucher. Bucher lived to be one hundred years and seven months of age, dying in 1879. The wife of Bucher died in 1835, hers being the first death in the German settlement. In 1835 came Christian and John Shoemaker, John and Ulric Basinger, John Musser and Christian Steiner. The year 1846 brought in John Diller, Christian Amstutz, Christian Luga- bill, John Geiger, John Lugabill and David Stauffer. The German settle- ment kept growing from year to year and was soon one of the most pros- perous sections of the county. These were all Mennonites and as soon as they settled they made provisions for religious services. At first they held services in the homes of the settlers, but by 1840 they had a substantial hewed-log church. Christian Steiner was the first pastor. The first election in Riley township was held in April, 1834, at the home of Thomas Gray, and at that time the following officers were elected : Thomas Gray, Joseph DeFord and John Stout, trustees; William Hand, clerk; Bildad Hubbard, supervisor; Thomas Gray, justice of the peace; George Farnum, constable. These appear to have been only temporary of- ficers; at least, another election was held in April of the following year, at which the following corps of officials were selected: John Stout, Moses Rice and George Wilson, trustees; N. H. Bagley, clerk; Bildad Hubbard, supervisor; J. D. Wamsley, justice of the peace; George Farnum, constable. The township retained its original area until 1847, when the southern tier of seven sections was detached and added to Allen county, leaving the town- ship with thirty square miles. The first road through the township was what was known as the Will- iamstown road, and this was followed shortly afterward by the Findlay- Van Wert road. William J. Wilson was the first pedagogue and taught his first school in the winter of 1836-37. Another school house was built the same year, but history has not preserved the name of its first teacher. The present officers of Riley township are as follows : Justices of the peace, M. E. Krohn and Daniel Schumacher; trustees, P. P. Schumacher, W. M. Risser and C. R. Van Meter ; clerk, P. A. Amstutz ; treasurer, S. P. Krohn; constables, Edward Basinger and J. H. Culp. PANDORA. John Stout laid out the town of Columbia, December i, 1836. The previous year he had built a grist-mill on Riley creek, one of the first grist- 154 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. mills of the county, which was a great convenience for the early settlers. This town was situated upon the Ridge road, leading from Findlay to Ka- lida and Delphos, and about half way between the county seats of Hancock and Putnam counties. For many years it was the stopping place of the law- yers and judges, while "traveling the circuit" in the early days before 185 1. The tavern was kept by Henry Kilheffer and travelers on their way from Findlay to Kalida spent the night here. Many stories are still told of the jolly times that were had at the old tavern. Later, the name was changed to Pendleton, and in 1850 the first addi- tion was laid out by Brice W. Viers. Henry Kilheffer owned the only store at this time and in 1852 he laid out East Pendleton, which was surveyed by Henry Blosser, county surveyor. -It bears the distinction of being the only town that was ever platted in Riley township. In 1882 the narrow gauge railroad, which has since become a standard gauge road and known as the Pittsburg, Akron & Western railroad, was proposed and constructed through the town. The same year Kiene and Suter laid out their addition to the town. The name of the town was again changed, this time to Pandora, and evidently the "third time charm" worked, for it has retained that name to the present time. Additions were laid out in 1891, by H. M. Day; 1893, by R. N. Mc- Adams; the same year S. P. Krohn laid out his addition and the following year H. M. Day laid out a second addition. It was re-surveyed by an order from the court, April 24, 1892, and incorporated on November 5th of the same year. Situated as it was, in the center of one of the best-improved sections of the county, surrounded with rich farm land and magnificent buildings which can hardly be surpassed in any locality of the state, it took a slow deep-rooted growth, which began to show a few years later. The farms were settled principally by sturdy Mennonites, whose faith forbids quarrel- ing and litigation. The overall factory has been one of the greatest agents in making Pan- dora what it is at present. The history of this factory will appear in an- other paragraph. The population in 19 10 numbered five hundred and sixty- two. It has paved streets, a modern high school, bank, and stores that rival any in the county. The Ohio & Northern railroad gives the people accom- modations east and west. The Pandora Milling Company does quite an ex- tensive business in this locality. The lumber and planing mills also employ a number of men and carry on a large business in their line. The present town officials are: Mayor, P A. Amstutz; clerk, Grover Davi'dson; treas- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 155 urer, A. S. Hilty; marshal, John Gulp; councilmen, Samuel Haas, P. D. Amstutz, C. C. Hilty, John Gerber, J. A. Suter, Adam Bixler. PANDORA MANUFACTURING COMPANY. The Pandora Manufacturing Gompany, which was formerly called the Pandora Overall Company, was organized in August, 1 901, by the followmg men, who were not only the founders, but the first officers and directors: John M. Amstutz, president; John Gerber, vice-president; Jacob A. Suter, secretary and treasurer ; Albert A. Burry, Garl Gerber. It was capitalized at ten thousand dollars. Five thousand six hundred dollars of the stock was retained by the founders and the rest was sold to outsiders. In the fall of same year the plant was started, with six sewing machines. The minutes of the directors give the first purchase of raw material in October. The first overalls were made in a part of an old woolen mill, where the first six ma- chines were installed. The success of the business seemed assured from the start and in 1902 the capital stock was increased to twenty-five thousand dollars. A part of this stock was offered for sale to outsiders. In September of this year W. E. Caldwell, of Cincinnati, purchased stock in the company and became its secretary and manager. At this same time' four more directors were added, and it is interesting to note that one of these men was Elias Welty, the present manager. The woolen mill burned in September, 1902, before the new stock was offered for sale. This incurred a loss, as the factory was only partly insured. \\''ork on a new building was immediately begun, which is part of the present structure. Owing to an increase of business, electric cutters were installed in 1903. Mr. Caldwell served as manager until 1905, when he was succeeded by John De Haan, who was formerly manager of the Singer Sew- ing Machine Company. In 1905 an addition was built, doubling the capacity of the factory. In the same year a number of Toledo men became inter- ested in the company and purchased a controlling interest, the capital stock being increased to fifty thousand dollars. In 1906 a similar plant was started at Toledo and the main offices moved to that place, but this move proved a failure and the plant was discontinued in 1908. The following year Mr. De Haan resigned as manager and Elias Welty, who has been men- tioned previously as a stockholder and director, became manager and secre- tary. To say that Mr. Welty was competent to fill the position would be speaking modestly, as he had been connected with the factory for eight years 156 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. and served in every capacity and department from engineer up. In 1910 A. J. Welty became interested and purchased the Toledo stock, thus bringing the control back to the Pandora community. From this time forward the success of the factory was assured and in the year 19 12 more business was done than in any two previous years and more salesmen were added. Orders were coming in so fast that it was im- possible to -fill them. It was deemed advisable to add another factory, which was located at Celina, Ohio. A shirt factory was also added at Zanesville, Ohio, owing to a demand for this commodity. These factories were merely taken over by this company and placed under their competent management. In 19 1 3 the capital stock was again increased, this time to one hundred thousand dollars. The following year the output was two hundred thou- sand dollars. In 191 5 the name was changed, due to the fact that it was not an overall factory alone, but a manufacturing plant. The present direct- ors and officers are: P. B. Hilty, president; J. A. Suter, vice-president; A. J. Welty, secretary; Elias Welty, manager; W. B. Jackson, manager of the Celina plant; A. G. Bruhl, manager of the Zanesville plant; David Lichty, Cleo Neuenschwander, A. P Sandles, B. A. Unverferth and John De Haan. This is the largest manufacturing plant in Putnam county and the present output amounts to a quarter of a million dollars a year. The stock is always in demand and the company has done a great service to the county in furnish- ing employment for so many men and women. The laborers are all paid by piece work and the management is so liberal in its wages that good salaries can be made by skilled and even competent labor, and no hardship is worked upon its employees. WEBSTER. This was a small country town, but was never platted. The postoffice for the town was called Stanley, but this later covered by a rural route and ceased to exist. SUGAR CREEK TOWNSHIP. Sugar Creek township was surveyed in 1820 by James Riley and orig- inally embraced thirty-six sections of land. In the year 1848, when Au- glaize county was formed, the south half of this township was' attached to Allen county and, in order to make Sugar Creek township of an average size and also to compensate for the loss, two tiers of sections were added ; ' f ,^l^^^^^^g^^ H IMHI m fe- "xii^^^^^^^^M^^HHl m Hpmi 91 1 » '*'.^B^ ^fe • f 1 ^^ ^r ♦^ ^t" " * " 1 ^B , f 1? 1 1 Mfk llJ Hh mi ^pm J^'^TBMpJljJraifi K^wji ■BR ^m IBP'^BLf '^t^MRN^^S^^ ^K ^9 IB^^M m |kj H| H pi R^P ^ ''' M ^> OPERATING DEPARTMENT • , '' SCENES IN PANDORA OVERALL FACTORY. / SHIPPING DEPARTHENT SCENES IN PANDORA OA^EHAIX FACTOliY. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 157 on the north from Union township. It then contained thirty sections of land and this was to be its permanent size. It derived its name from Sugar creek, which flows north through the center part of the township. Hog creek also runs through the township about two miles west of Sugar creek and parallel with it. This excellent drainage made it a very desirable town- ship to settle in and, since it was not covered with swamps, as some of the northern townships were, practically the entire acreage was suitable for cultivation. The first settlement was made on Hog creek, in the southern part, by Robert Martin and Solomon Sprague, in the year 1828. The following year Benjamin Parker and a Mr. McCoy decided to make this their per- manent settlement. In 1830 William Clevenger took up his claim and he was followed, a short time later, by Benjamin, Jacob, Joseph, George and Samuel Clevenger, who made their settlement near the present village of Vaughnsville. They built the Clevenger mill in the' following year. This mill is thought by many of the early settlers who still survive to be the first grist-mill in the county. The same year saw John Ensley and Peter Rhodes casting in their lots with the scattered settlers, and, in 1832, Rhodes built the first saw-mill in the county. As there was an abundance of timber at that time, it did a great amount of business. The next settlers were James Ramsey, Selah Bennum, Obed Martin and Isaac Guffy, who came with their families in 1832. In 1833 there was a further addition of the families of Samuel Ramsey, James Nicholas, Thomas Watkins, David Roberts, Jack- son Miller, Samuel McMullen, John and Joseph Tegarden and Henry Te- garden. In 1834 William Guffy, John Watkins, Henry Davis, John R. Jones, Richard Richards, David Crabill and Joseph Ford, and, in 1835, John Defifenbaugh and perhaps a few others. The township took on a temporary organization in 1832 or 1833. This organization included what afterwards became the townships of Monroe, Pleasant, Union and Sugar Creek. The first township officers were as fol- lows : Obed Martin, justice of the peace; James Nicholas, later served as the second justice of the peace; Samuel Ramsey, constable; George Niell, William Patrick and Jackson Miller, trustees; Benjamin Clevenger, treas- urer, and James Nicholas, clerk. At the gubernatorial election in October, 1834, Sugar Creek township polled thirty-four votes, and at the same election in 1879, just forty-five years later, there were two hundred and eighty-on votes cast. The Sugar Creek township officials are: Justices of the peace, R. W. Jones and David Jones; trustees, John F. Miller, Morton Wood and Will- 158 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. iam Sakemiller; clerk, D. R. Hinkle; treasurer, B. F. Smith; constables, S. L. Griffith and Walter Salsbury. VAUGHNSVILLE. The first town laid out in the township was Monterey, in 1847. This was platted by Eli Clevenger and took in all that part of the town lying south of what is now known as the Vaughnsville and Columbus Grove road. That part of the town lying north of this road was platted the same year by D. C. Vaughn, who called it Vaughnsville. Eventually, the name Monterey was dropped and Vaughnsville now includes both plats. Vaughns- ville has a bank, an elevator, saw-mill, and stores which carry well-selected stocks of goods. The town is beautifully located, lying on the east side of Sugar creek, and is surrounded by a prosperous and thriving farming com- munity. The farmers are well-to-do, lands are under a high state of culti- vation and fine buildings indicate prosperity. Vaughnsville has never been incorporated, as it is a good trading point for the township and does not see the need of corporate government. A consolidated high school affords excellent educational opportunities for the children of the township. The Northern Ohio railroad gives it a ready outlet to foreign markets. RIMER. Rimer was laid out in 1881 by James W. Rimer, for D. P. Rimer, the proprietor. It is situated on the east bank of the Ottawa river, and on the Northern Ohio railroad. This town was first called Roxburg, but later the name was changed for that of the original owner. The schools of this township were consolidated and this necessitated the building of a fourteen- thousand-dollar school building, ^\■hich was located at Rimer. This is a very prosperous little village. JONES CITY. Jones City was platted in 1890, at the intersection of the Northern rail- road and the Ohio Electric line. It was laid out for R. W. and Ella Jones by Evan H. Jones, surveyor, and from whom it derived its name. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 159 CENTER POINT AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. The Center Point Agricultural Society was organized in 1905. In the fall of that year the farmers in Sugar Creek township had an enormous crop of clover seed to be hulled. No huller was in the community, and, as winter was coming on, it looked as though the seed was going to waste. Twenty farmers formed a partnership and bought a huller, and in this way saved the crop of clover seed. This was the beginning of the organization, and, since it worked to such good success on the first experiment, it was tried not only on harvesting the grain, but also on selling it and buying provisions. A con- stitution was formed and by-laws were adopted. It is not an incorporation, neither is it a secret organization, but the members are taken in by a vote of the society. Its objects at present are to promulgate a helpful, sociable and friendly feeling among its members and to promote their financial mterests by buying in large quantities and saving a needless waste. "We do not m- tend to crush the dealer in the small town, but to make life easier for him by buying in large amounts, paying cash and saving him the needless worry over bad debts." • UNION TOWNSHIP. The first settlers in what is now known as Union township were Abram Sarber and family and Joseph Clevenger and family, in the year 183 1. The next year, Joseph and George Clevenger, with their families, settled here. In 1833 this little group was swelled by the addition of seven families: Adam Sarber, Jacob Clevenger, Jenkin Hughes, William Clevenger, Sam- uel Gander and Daniel Rimer. In 1834- there was a further addition to the township of the families of Moses Lee, Robert McCracken, WilUam Philips, Isaac McCracken, Sheldon Guthrie, Arthur E. Martin and Joseph Miller. In 1832 the township took on a temporary organization. The officers were appointed by an order from the court, and the township was organ- ized into one road district, with John Guffy as the first supervisor. The following were the first officers of the newly organized township: Moses Lee, William Clevenger and Adam Sarber as trustees and Abram Sarber as clerk. They held their meeting on March 2, 1835, to issue an order for the division of the township into three road districts, and the electors were notified by advertisement by the clerk "of the town meeting" for the elec- tion of township officers "as required by law." At this same meeting they i6o PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. issued orders of one dollar and fifty cents to each of the trustees for serv- ices; also an order to Abram Sarber for seventy-five cents for his services as clerk for the past year. On April 2, 1835, an election was held at the home of William Philips and the following officers were elected: William Clevenger, Adam Sarber and Richard Lee, trustees; Abram Sarber, clerk; William Clevenger, treas- urer; John Guffey, George Clevenger and Johnston Crawford, supervisors; Moses Lee and Winchton Risley, overseers of the poor; F. C. Fitch and Winchton Risley, fence viewers; William Clevenger and Moses Lee, justices of the peace; James Lee and Henry Guffey, constables. The first tax was levied on March 7, 1S36, which was one mill on the dollar. The expenditures for the year 1836 were fifteen dollars and forty cents ; receipts for taxes were four dollars and forty cents. On September 10, 1836, the trustees met and divided the township into two school districts. District number one comprised the south part of the township, two and one-half miles wide by six miles long. District number two was the north part and was three and one-half miles wide by six miles " long. KALIDA. Kalida, the first town laid out in Union township, was platted in 1834. On June 24, 1834, Moses Lee purchased the first lot and built the first cabin in the village. His son, H. G. Lee, cut the first log. In the same year Sheldon Guthrie built the first frame house. This was sided with clap- boards and in later years was quite a relic of the past and a monument to its builder. Sheldon Guthrie established the first store in the same year. Putnam county was created by an act of Congress passed January 3, 1834. A provision was contained in this same act whereby a town director should be appointed, whose duty it was to select and survey one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 5, township i south, range 6 east, in Put- nam county, and, under the direction of the county commissioners, lay out a town, and that the town so laid out should be the county seat. The town director, with the commissioners, were to sell the lots and from the proceeds, less two hundred dollars, which was to be paid to the state, the county should receive money to pay the expenses of the county. On May 5, 1834, Abram Sarber was appointed by the court of com- mon pleas as town director and Thomas Gray, William Priddy, Samuel Myers were appointed county commissioners; F. C. Fitch, county surveyor. The town was laid out and named Kalida (The Beautiful) and became the COMMITTEES OF MID-WINTER FAIR, VAUOHXSVILLE, DECEMBER, 1913. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. l6l seat of justice of the county. For the first year the court of common pleas was held at the home of Abram Sarber. The town was incorporated on P'ebruary i6, 1839, by an act of the Legislature and the mayor and council were elected. In 1843 corporate powers seem to have been too heavy for the citizens to bear and on March 14 of that year they asked the Legislature to repeal the act of incorporation, retaining the council in office for one year, "to settle the business of the corporation," and at the expiration of their term of office they were again elected for three years longer, or until 1847. The next articles of incorpo- ration were not taken out until 1857. Such prominent men as John Morris, Alonzo Skinner, John McClure, Levi Rice, T. E. Cunningham, Wilham H. Ball, Benjamin F. Metcalf, James McKenzie, attorneys; R. W. Thrift and C. M. Godfrey, physicians; C. H. Rice, merchant, settled in Kalida between 1843 and 1848. It would be hard to find an equal number of men starting together who have made a better record. The first court house was built in 1835, and a second brick one was completed in 1840. A fire in the recorder's office about 1862 injured and destroyed ^many of the records and in the winter of 1864-65 the court house was entirely destroyed by fire. The old records were destroyed, but the new and transcribed ones were saved. The town grew slowly until 1840, when the increase in the number of settlers in the county and the opening of many farms caused a marked in- crease in the population. Its growth was steady until 1866, when the county seat was removed to Ottawa. This was a great reverse for the prosperous little village and for a time it seemed to stagnate, but the Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western and the Columbus, Lima & Milwaukee railroads were constructed and this later hel]ied to offset the loss of the county seat. At present Kalida has one of the Odenweller elevators, a bank, news- paper, modern high school and the business houses are modern in every re- spect. In 1910 the population was seven hundred and seventy. Situated in a good agricultural community, this town is sure to have a steady growth. The present officers are : Mayor, Guy R. Coit ; clerk, Samuel Stevens ; treasurer, Louis Kline; marshal. Homer Davidson; councilmen, L. Vender Embse, Charles Veach, Ed Rower, A. G. Underwood, J. M. Rimer, Joseph Foltz; trustees of public affairs, Charles Veach and Guy R. Coit. The township officials are: Justices of the peace, Frank Logan and J. F. Stauffer; trustees, J. G. Crawford, J. J. Gerdeman and Joseph Siefker; II i6i PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. clerk, William Rambo; treasurer, Charles C. Borman; constables, Jefferson Row and Stanley Godwin; ditch superintendent, J. Price Jones. VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP. Van Buren township was not organized by the county commissioners until 1843, having been known as North Blanchard for ten years, or from the time Blanchard township was organized. It was slow in being settled, due to the extreme swampiness of much of the land, a fact which is set forth in a striking manner in the field notes of James Heaton, who surveyed it in 1821. He says: "While surveying this township, I dug five wells twenty feet deep, for water, the swamp water being unfit for use. At some future day this swamp will probably be drained, as it may be in four or five differ- ent directions. The soil in this township averages as good second rate; but at present the land is so wet and miry, and there are such masses of fallen timbers, that there appears to be nothing inviting to the agriculturist to set- tle m it." If this same surveyor could see the broad and well-tilled acres of today, he would doubtless be surprised at the changes which time has wrought. Practically all of the once swampy land has been reclaimed and now fields of wavuig grain may be seen, where formerly swamps and morasses reigned supreme. The year 1835 saw the first permanent settler locate in the township and Abraham Baughman will go down in Van Buren township as the first man to brave the terrors of the malaria and ague within its limits. He was followed shortly afterward by Hiram Hull, John Broadsword,' William Kill- patrick, Ludwig Hull, James Davis, Elvington Hull and James Reed. These sterling pioneers made several efforts to effect a township organization be- fore 1843, but failed each time, because they could not muster a sufficient number of voters. It was not until Abraham Baughman, the first settler, offered his personal bond, guaranteeing the county against any probable loss, that the commissioners granted the request of the petitioners. That the township was very sparsely settled is very evident from the report of the first election, on February 18, 1843. At that time only twelve votes were cast, and, so history records, only nine of these represented actual settlers, the other three being imported for the occasion. There were barely enough voters to fill all the offices and it will be noticed that some men held more than one office. The first officers included the following : Abraham Bauo-h- man, Elvington A. Hull and John Davis, trustees; Marcus Thrapp, clerk; PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 63, Elvington A. Hull, treasurer; Jacob Nemire and Adam Krites, overseers of the poor; Abraham Baughman and David Tyner, fence viewers; Lemuel Hickerson, constable. At a subsequent election, May 20, 1843, Elvington A. Hull was elected the first justice of the peace. The trustees were anxious to provide educational facilities for the few children, as is evidenced by their meeting, on March 6, 1843, ^or the purpose of dividing the township into two school districts, No. i being the east half of the township, and No. 2, the west half. At an election held on April 3, 1843, more officers were elected and the two townships divided into two road districts, with Burdett Hull and John Davis as supervisors. The road dis- tricts coincided with the school districts. LEIPSIC. Leipsic was laid out and platted by James E. Creighton, on January 26, 1857. The first ground platted into lots in the corporate limits of the present town was that lying east of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad, and both north and south of the Nickel Plate. This village first bore the name of Creighton, in honor of its founder, but it was incorporated under the name of Leipsic. On August 29, 1859, Joseph Swartz laid out a plat of land east of the Cincinnati, Hamihon & Dayton and called it Leipsic station. The following year Mr. Swartz laid out an addition to the same plat, these two plats being recorded under the name Leipsic. The growth of this village began in the year 1859, when the first train run over the Dayton & Michigan railroad. The first train passing over this railroad signaled the denizens of an almost impenetrable forest. By the con- struction of this railroad, the outlet for the timber and other products of this country was assured, and settlers began to arrive, thus opening up one of the greatest sections in the state. The growth of this section is a marvel of progress and productiveness. One of the potent factors in the prosperity of this section and the impetus which stirred early settlers was the Buckeye Stave Company and too much praise cannot be given this company for their excellent work in making Leipsic one of the foremost towns of the county. The early settlers in this village were J. B. Swartz, Wellington Hurd, David McClung, C. W. Askam and wife and Al Tingle. In i860 S. and W. P. Young and D. G. Leffler settled here. The following year Mrs. John Foltz, G. D. Foltz, Jacob Werner and Absalom Foulk risked their fortunes with the progress of the new town. In 1863 A. F. Eastom and wife, T. J. Werner, Samuel Waters and wife, and in 1865 J. H. Askam, Andrew C. 164 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Askam and F. LefHer, completing the list of early settlers and pioneer resi- dents. These men of brawn and courage had placed on the map of the country a thriving little village with the strength to combat in the field of commerce. Chief among the early industries which operated in Leipsic are: The Buckeye Stave Company ; the Leipsic flouring-mill, which was erected in the year 1872 by W. C. Miller; the Leipsic planing-mill, which was owned and operated by Messrs. O. E. Townsend and John Zahrends, and the following companies : Leipsic machine works, A. F. Eastom & Son, the Leipsic brick yard, tile yard, creamery, and two good elevators. The churches and schools of this village are ranked with the best and have been discussed to a fuller degree in another chapter. This town has been visited by quite a few disastrous fires, but the citi- zens were undaunted by these reversals of fortune and immediately set to work replacing them with bettter and larger structures. The town stands as a monument to its owns prosperity and growth. The different business enterprises at present are: The Leffler Hotel, which was erected at a cost of fifteen thousand dollars and is an emblem of architectural progress and a monument to his memory ; the Bank of Leipsic, the Temco Company, R. T. Terry, tile manufacturer, and many other in- dustries. The stores cater to all the wants of the citizens of the town and also to the country trade. The present officials are: Mayor, E. V. Burns; clerk, C. J. Erickson; treasurer, Earl Andrews; marshal, Charles McKeen; councilmen, W. T Starling, W. D. Hickey, Dallas Kirk, J. B. Weber, L. D. Wendle, Joseph Faber; trustees of public afifairs, W. A. Bell, J. A. Parsons, C. W. Fogle. THE TEMCO ELECTRIC MOTOR COMPANY. The Temco Electric Motor Company, an Ohio corporation, with its main factory and office at Leipsic, was organized and chartered in the fall of 191 1. The Temco Company was successor to the American Foundry Company, which had been doing a general foundry business up to that time. The name, Temco, is derived from the first letters of the name "The Electric Motor Company." This company was organized for the purpose of manufacturing electric portable tools and small motors. The line ori^^- inally consisted of electric portable drills, grinders, buffers, polishers and small fractional-horse-power motors. Later, automobile accessories, such as shock absorbers, electric generators, ignitors and starters, were added to LEIPSIC IN 1N77 LBIPSIC IN 1914. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 165 the original line of general machinery. The Temco Company has the dis- tinction of building the first and original shock absorber for the Ford cars. In the beginning, the equipment consisted of six or eight machines, which furnished employment to a similar number of men. It covered about twenty-five hundred feet of floor space, all on the ground floor. With the rapid increase in the business, as their products became known, more ma- chinery and greater floor space were added, and the pay-roll was increased, also. At present it covers about thirty-two thousand scjuare feet of floor space, in a two- and three-story brick plant, using electric motors aggregat- ing about two hundred and fifty horse power and furnishing employment for one hundred and fifty to two hundred men and women. The power and light for the factory are furnished by electricity, each machine having an individual motor, with silent chain drive. No overhead line-shaft is used in any part of the plant. Every rec[uirement of the state is adhered to in reducing the possibility of accidents to a minimum. The plant is steam-heated throughout, from its own boiler, placed in the plant for that purpose alone. \Vash-ro(jms and coat-rooms are provided on the first and second floors. The plant has had a steady growth from the begin- ning, and, judging from the success which the sale of its products has met with, the Temco Electric Motor Company will soon be numbered among the leading manufacturing plants of northwestern Ohio. Their products are shipped to every part of the globe, the principal importing countries for their goods being South America, England, France, Australia, Russia, Asia and Africa. BUCKEYE ST.W'E COMPANY. The Buckeye Stave Company was one of the potent factors in the ad- vancement of Leipsic in a material way. This company has grown from a humble beginning in Leipsic to an enormous business, which extends from northern .Michigan to the Gulf states and west to the Pacific coast states, and gives employment to a large force of men. This company was organized in 1886, with the following stockholders: John Edwards, W. \V Edwards, I. N. Bushong, J. S. Lenhart and D. L. Critten, all of whom were residents of Leipsic. At the time of its organiza- tion the company controlled tweh'e factories, located at Leipsic, Columbus Grove and Continental, and employed one hundred men. In 1887 this company purchased the Bank of Leipsic and in 1890 they placed a stave factory in Pleasant Bend: in i8()i they built a factory at Kalida and also at Avis; in 1892 the Elm Center stave factory was pur- i66 PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. chased and placed under their control, and the same year a factory was lo- cated at Mancelona, Michigan, but this was removed to Gladstone, Michigan, in 1894. The Continental Bank was organized in iSgr, and at present has responsibilities amounting to one million dollars. The growth of this company has been very rapid, and in 1895, after only nine years' time, they employed one thousand men, with a yearly pay- roll of one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars and a paid-up capital stock of five hundred and thirty thousand dollars. Their holdings include extensive timber and farm lands in this and other states, and the growth of the business has far exceeded the hopes of the promoters. In 1888 the in- terests of Lenhart were purchased, and in 1893 Joseph H. Edwards pur- chased a one- fourth interest. The company has grown to be the largest of its kind in the world. It has always been liberal to its employees and fair in its dealings, and has contributed liberally to public and private improvement and all works for the betterment of the community. The company owns a large amount of farm land at the present time, which it has improved and placed under cultivation, after removing the timber. This company stands today with its many business enterprises in the full confidence of the busi- ness world. BELMORE (MONTGOMERYVILLE). Montgomery ville was laid out and platted in 1862 by Deputy County Surveyor John Shakely, for Wesley G. Montgomery, acting under the power of attorney for Benjamin and Mary Ann Plummer as proprietors. The village is situated in the northern part of Van Bu^en township, on the Dayton & Michigan railroad. The original plat of seventeen lots was laid on the eastern side of the railroad and the town took its name from the surveyor. About the year 1868 the name was changed to Belmore, as the postoffice had given that name and two names caused quite a little confusion. Additions to the village were laid by the following proprietors : In 1869, the Dayton & Michigan railroad, Knox and Speaker; in 1874, John H. George and Alexander Williamson. Other additions followed later. The village was incorporated in 1882, with the following officers : O. Judson, mayor ; P. L. Baker, clerk ; W. Winkler, treasurer ; Theodore Ludwig, mar- shal; A. J. Showers, D. Ensminger, J. H. Ensminger, W. Mull, Nimrod Speaker and I. B. Hathaway, councilmen. Although the town has had no large manufactures or any natural re- sources to aid in its growth, still it is a substantial country town and the stores do a good business. The farmers in this locality are accommodated PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 167 with the stores which handle all the different commodities and cater to the farmers' trade. The present officers are: Mayor, C. R. Blauvelt; clerk, Kenneth R. Casteel ; treasurer, William Glaser ; marshal, Mathias Voglepohl ; councilmen, W E. Saul, Henry Rader, L. M. Hickerson, F. E. Critchet, I. E. Blauveh and Lafe Fox. The population in 1910 was two hundred and ninety-eight. SPITZER (tOWNWOOD). The village of Spitzer, located on the Nickel Plate railroad, four miles east of Leipsic, was platted by Aaron Overbech, county surveyor, in 1886. The town was laid out for Howard C. Tinkham, but was named in honor of the Spitzer Brothers, of Toledo, Ohio, who were largely interested in lands adjoining the village. Owing to the fact that there was another town of the same name in Ohio, it was changed to Townwood. WARD. Ward was the name given to a little town located on the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad, but was never platted and at present is only a railroad siding. The present officials of Van Buren township are : Justices of the peace, Jacob Lefifler, T. J. Huffman, J. E. Fisher and Nimrod Speaker ; trustees, James Robinson, E. B. Limmonds and H. H. Montooth; clerk, Thomas J. Shuly; treasurer, E. C. Kuntz; constables, Joseph Butler and Daniel Butler. CHAPTER VII. HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION. Prior to the year 1820 the territory now embraced in Putnam county was inhabited by but few white people and by a Hmited number of Indians, a remnant of the Ottawa tribe, who made Tawa village their abode. A reser- vation of five miles square, consisting of nearly all of what is now Ottawa township, had been granted them, but not in perpetuity, as, by a treaty entered into in 1830, another reservation was given to them in Kansas and they were deported to that territory. However, a few of them remained in this locality and county for several years afterwards, not desiring to go to their new reservation. It was not until the years from 1831 to 1834 that emigration of any large number of people to this county occurred. During these years many settlers located along Blanchard river and other streams through the county. In connection with the early navigation of Blanchard river it may be said that in the government surve}'s the Blanchard is designated as a navigable stream and that it is still so designated on all government charts, but no one has ever come across "the old citizen" who said that he was frequently dis- turbed by the blowing of the whistles of the steamboats passing up and down the river. EARLY MARKETING FACILITIES. The great problem of these earl}- settlers was the method by which they could market their limited amount of farm products and thus secure needed articles necessary for their welfare. While their surplus products were not great, they were sufficient for their limited wants. As the roads at that time were but trails along the rix-ers, which could only be traveled at certain times of the )'ear by teams drawing wagons, the "boy on horseback" was the chief master of transportation of what wheat and corn was taken to the "grinder" to be converted into flour and meal. A\^hen the trails were passable in the summer and fall, trips were made to Lower Sandusky, which at that time was an outlet to the lake, trails to Maumee or Perrysburg not then being- opened. Upon the completion of the canal in 1845, a new outlet was established PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 169 by way of the river to Defiance and thence by canal to Toledo. This opened navigation on the Blanchard river and a lively business was transacted by the conveyance of the surplus grain, pork, butter, eggs, etc., to Defiance. For this purpose .a small boat, called a pirogue, was used and those who possessed these crafts made tjie business quite profitable. A number of these pirougues were forty feet in length and three to four feet in breadth and would carry a great amount of grain and other products. The individuals who owned these small crafts were expert mariners and, notwithstanding the dangers lurking in the river at that time, which was filled with drift and hidden snags, comparatively few mishaps occurred to these early mariners of the Blanchard. However, now and then they "had troubles of their own," as the following incident shows, which we copy from the Defiance Doiwcrat, of April, 1852, and which refers to one of our most prominent and most worthy former citizens : "J. P. Simon, of Putnam county, recovered a judgment of ten dollars and costs against the canal boat 'Gold Digger,' before Squire Bouton, on Wednes- day, for damages done to his pirogue, through carelessness or inattention of the hands on the 'Gold Digger.' This settles the cjuestion that the Blanchard river boatmen and others with their pirougues, at our river docks, are entitled to some protection and that canal- boatmen must be more cautious." ADVENT OB' THE RAILROADS. The opening of the I\Iad River Railroad, the first in the state, from Dayton to Sandusky City, in 1849, and the subsequent construction of a strap-iron railroad from Findlay to Carey to connect with the Mad River Railroad, gave the people of the eastern part of this county another outlet to the lakes, and the public highways being made more passable, diverted trade to Findlay, nearly all surplus products being marketed at that place. In 1859 the Dayton & Michigan Railroad was completed through the county, and a new artery of trade established which furnished an outlet for the greater part of the county and did more than any other thing toward the development and growth of the county. This road, now known as the Cin- cinnati, Hamilton & Dayton, ran its first train on July 4, 1859, ^1'°^ Lima to Toledo. The other steam roads commenced operation through the county on the following dates: Nickle Plate, July 4, 1881 ; Clover Leaf, September, 1877, from Delphos to Dupont; Northern Ohio, October, 1881 ; F^dlay, Fort Wayne & Western, fall of 1888; Kalida & Defiance, 1899; Detroit, Toledo & fronton. ^7° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. The following is a statement of the mileage and valuation of the steam and electric lines operating in Putnam county, as well as of the telegraph and telephone lines : ^^il'"°^d. Mileage. Valuation. Cmcmnati, Hamilton & Dayton (main line) 19. 8 $851,810 Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western 24.11 4o8,'590 Columbus, Lima & Milwaukee 11.23 I49 470 Detroit, Toledo & fronton 19.58 206,7^0 New York Central & St. Louis 24. 6 1,611,840 Ohio Electric (Toledo branch) 20.3 Ohio Electric (Defiance branch) 22.41 Northern Ohio .3.42 565,850 Toledo, St. Louis & Western 20.24 i7S,i6o Total 18569 $3,969,450 TELEPHONES AND TELEGRAPH (lONG DISTANCE). Western Union— miles of wire 1,027.55 $61,560 Ohio Telephone and Telegraph 28.02 2800 Ohio Postal Telegraph and Cable 233.30 11,450 TELEPHONES (lOCAl). There are some thirty local telephone companies in Putnam county. Some of these are large companies, while a few of them have only a very short stretch of wire. The following is a complete list: Miles Valu- Name of Company. of Wire, ation. Town or Twp Ottawa Farmers Mutual 168 $10,390 Ottawa Receivers, Central Union 174 10,380 Ottawa Putnam Telephone Company 2,416 93,710 Putnam Co. Miller City Farmers A^utual 117 2,270 Miller City Glandorf Mutual 70 2,600 Glandorf Contmental Farmers Mutual 32 7,000 Continental Pandora Mutual 198 4,650 Pandora Columbus Grove Mutual 323 8,150 Columbus Grove Ft. Jennmgs Farmers Mutual 189 4,800 Ft. Jennings PUTNAM COUNTY. OHIO. 171 Miles Name of Company. of Wire. Rimer Mutual 45 Delphos Home Telephone 10 Elida Mutual 10 \'aughnsville 58 Rushmore Mutual 13 Leipsic Farmers Mutual 25 Bluffton 36 New Bavaria Farmers Mutual 16 Deshler Farmers Mutual 6 Gilboa Farmers Mutual 45 Bluffton Farmers Mutual 16 Cloverdale 19 Kalida Mutual 44 Ottoville Telephone Company 2 Citizens Exchange Telephone i Farmers Mutual Telephone Company. 10 Farmers Mutual Telephone Company. 57 P'armers Mutual Telephone Company. 11 Valu- ation. 2,300 310 410 2,630 800 7.500 1,440 370 150 3.400 540 3.190 5.720 1,890 80 3.340 2,100 3,000 Town or Twp. Rimer Jennings Tp. Jen. & Sugar Cr. Sugar Creek Tp. Rushmore Leipsic Tp. Riley Tp. Liberty & Palmer Van Buren Blanchard Riley Cloverdale Kalida Ottoville Liberty Belmore North Creek Dupont Total 4,111 $184,120 CHAPTER VIII. CHURCHES OF PUTNAM COUNTY. COLUMBUS GROVE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. A Methodist class was organized two miles south of Columbus Grove, at the home of Philip Hopper, Sr., in October, 1839. His house continued to be a preaching place until 1853, when services were held in a school house, later a public hall, and in the United Brethren and Presbyterian churches in the town of Columbus Grove until 1869. Then a lot was given by Father Hooper and during the pastorates of Philip Lemasters, Harrison Maltbie and J. C. demons, a frame church was built. The congregation continued to worship in this building until 1891, when the present brick church was erected, under the pastorate of the Rev. Alexander Harmount. Until 1868 Columbus Grove was an appointment with the St. John, Elida and Ottawa societies, but at that date it was made a separate charge. It so remained until 1903, when it was again made a station. The first class was organized under the joint pastorate of Elmer Day and Peter HoUopeter. The following persons were members of the class and, therefore, charter members of the Columbus Grove church, namely: Philip and Rachel Hooper, their children, Mary, Julia, Rachel, John and Elmira; George and Mary Stevenson and their children, Mary, Enoch and Rachel; Adam and Loruma Van Meter, and Mrs. B. Kliver. The records- of the pastors from 1839 to i860 is not complete, but among the preachers of that period were Jacob Albright, John Kellam, Messrs. Hookbrick and DeLisle. Since i860 those who have served the charge are: G. O. A-IcPherson, Adam C. Barnes, B. B. Powell, Wihiam Deal, Josiah F. Crooks, Philip Lemasters, Harrison Maltbie, J. C. demons, B. J. Hoadley, George Matthews, W. H. Scoles, Reuben Ranch, John M. Mills, Peter Biggs, L. O. Cook, A. Harmount, N. B. C. Love, D. F. Helms, WiUiam Hook, Jacob Baumgardner, M. C. Howey, VV. J. Green, J. W. Gibson, Daniel Carter and the present pastor, C. M. Monosmith. From a small beginning, seventy-six years ago, this church has grown until it now has a membership of nearly three hundred. A subscription has PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 173 been raised for a church building and the work on this structure will soon begin. METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH AT LEIPSIC. The Leipsic Methodist Episcopal church, one of the strong and aggressive churches, in the old Central Ohio conference, was organized about the year 1870. Most of the members of the newly organized class came from the Methodist church of West Leipsic. For nearly fifteen years the faithful men and women of this church wor- shipped in the school house and in the Lutheran and Presbyterian churches of the town. For a number of years this church was a part of the Ottawa circuit, and later was attached to the Gilboa circuit. In 1884, under the pastorate of the Rev. J. S. G. Reeder, the contract was let for a new church by the board of trustees, W. W. Edwards, J. H. Edwards, S. B. Webber, Lorenzo Fulk and W. Galogby, the contract price being three thousand, five hundred and sixty-five dollars. This was completed and dedicated in 1885, under the pastorate of the Rev. J. R. Rushbridge. The society prospered and grew so rapidly that in ten short years a larger and more commodious building was needed, and in 1895 the congrega- tion was led in a new church enterprise by the pastor, Rev. A. A. Thomas. In 1896 the present beautiful church, with a seating capacity of nearly one thousand two hundred, was dedicated, at a cost of about twenty thousand dollars. The following ministers have served the church: Jason Young, O. E. Palmer, J. F. Davies, James Long, Jeremiah McCane, Rev. Mr. Maltbie, J. C. Miller, R. M. Culver, W. E. Seuman, Rev. Mr. Reeder, J. R. Rushbridge, George Matthews, A. A. Thomas, George B. Wiltsie, Daniel Carter, W. J. Hagerman, Jacob Baumgardner, Edwin L. Davis and C. W. Barnes, the present pastor. The Leipsic church has grown from a small class until now, at the age of forty-five years, it has a membership of over three hundred and fifty. It has been represented in the general conference three times, once by John Edwards and twice by Mrs. Florence D. Richards. It is characterized by its large missionary and educational contributions and for its benevolent spirit. METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH AT GILBOA. The Methodist Episcopal church in Gilboa was organized in 1833, with the following charter members : Moses Williams and wife, Sarah Crafus, Lou- 1 74 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. isa Gensinger, H. W. Montgomery and Samuel McDonald. It was connected with the McComb circuit at first, but was later changed to the Leipsic cir- cuit, and afterwards it became the head of the Gilboa circuit, which at first embraced Pleasant Chapel, Shawtown and Pandora. In 191 1 Gilboa was made a station, with the Rev. E. H. Snow as pastor. The ministers who have served the church are: Eli Myers, S. R. Colgan, J. W. Shultz, William J. Green, E. S. Keeler, J. B. Gottschall, J. PI. Carter, Samuel Given, L. B. Smith, M. J. Nash, J. W. Miller, E. H. Snow and C. E. Bowley. METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, CONTINENTAL. The Methodist Episcopal congregation at Continental was organized in 1895. The adherents of this faith at Continental had desired a meeting place of their own for some time but were not able to get the proposition started. The church building was constructed at a cost of three thousand dollars. This is a very pretty frame church structure. The members have also con- structed a parsonage, at a cost of one thousand dollars. The church is in a very prosperous condition at the present time, with a total membership of one hundred and forty. Rev. J. D. Parker is the present minister and through his efforts is largely due the present good standing of the church in this community. NORTH CREEK METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCtl. Rev. J. D. Parker also serves the Methodist church at North Creek. The church building at this place consists of a frame structure, which was erected at a cost of one thousand two hundred dollars. The member- ship at present numbers twenty. Although this church congregation is smaller than some of its sister congregations, it is on a firm basis and the membership is increasing. CLOVERDALE METITODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCtl. The Cloverdale Methodist Episcopal church has a congregation at pres- ent of twenty-seven members. The present frame church building was erected at a cost of one thousand two hundred dollars. Rev. J. D. Parker serves this congregation from Continental. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 75 TRINITY METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, OTTAWA. The Methodist Episcopal church at Ottawa was organized in 1855, with Rev. John A. Shannon as pastor. The first church building was a brick structure, built in 1858, the brick for the building being made by M. Galla- way. The Ottawa society was organized as a station in 1869 by the Rev. L. C. Webster, who was presiding elder. Rev. C. W. Miller was pastor in charge. About ten years ago plans were talked of for the erection of a new church building and the matter agitated until, on August 8, 1899, the corner stone of the new ediiice was laid. On July 8, 1900, the new church was dedicated to the service of Almighty God by Bishop David H. Moore. The names of the pastors from 1869 are as follows: 1869-70, G. W. Miller; 1870-71, H. M. Shaffer and John Wilson; 1871-73, Jason Young; 1873-74, H. S. Bradley and S. L. Beiler; 1874-76, J. W. Miller; 1876-78, H. E. Pilcher; 1878-79, Albert Foster; 1879-80, Joseph Ayers; 1880-83, Caleb Hill; 1883-86, R. R. Bryan; 1886-88, Joseph Ayers; 1888-93, William S. Philpott; 1893, Caleb Hill: 1893-96, A. S. Watkins ; 1896-98, J. Williams; 1898-1901, C. B. Holding; 1902-03, Charles W Sullivan; 1908, J. W. Don- nan; 1909, C. B. Cuppett; 1910, S. Baumgardner; 1912, F E. Higbie; 1914. E. J. \^'e]Jster ; 1915, James William Gibson. DUPONT METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. The congregation of the Alethodist Episcopal church at Dupont is also served as a charge from Continental. Rev. J. D. Parker serves this church along with the congregations at Cloverdale, North Creek, and also Conti- nental, as was previously mentioned. This church has a membership of fifty-eight active workers. The present frame building was erected at a cost of one thousand five hundred dollars. Although the town of Dupont is not as prosperous and flourishing as it has been, still this little church has held together its band of followers and the prosperity which the congregation experiences is fully merited by their untiring efforts and also the efforts of the minister. KALIDA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. The beginning of Presbyterianism in Kalida dates back about seventy years, the first organization appearing in 1845. At that time Oliver Tol- bert, Sr., Joseph Tingle, Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Rice, Mr. and Mrs. Coulter, 1/6 PUTXAM COUXTY, OHIO. ]Mr. and ]Mr5. Hugh Crawford. Dr. Robert Thrift and wife, Mr. and Airs. Chamberlain, Mrs. Jane Hughes and Isaac and Robert [McCracken met and formally organized a Presbyterian church at Kalida. They met in private homes and in the old court house until a frame building for church pur- poses was erected in 1852. The building erected in 1852 is stiU standing and has the honor of being the oldest church building now standing within the limits of Putnam county. The timbers are of oak and walnut and the building bids fair to stand for many years to come. The dedicatory ser^-ices, in 1852, were in charge of the Rev. Thomas Elcock. The ministers from the beginning down to the present time are as follows : Revs. Elcock, Brice, Emerson, Bedem. Cooper, Fuller, Echolls. Hyatt, [NIcGee, Adams and ^^'ill- iams. The church now enrolls about eighty members and is one of the most flourishing Presbyterian churches in the county. A Sabbath school is main- tained, under the superintendency of A. F. Skinner. The president of the Christian Endeavor is K. Alurrav. LEIPSIC PRESBYTERIAX CHURCH. The history of the first Presb\terian church in Leipsic dates back to about 1873. Although this church was organized some years prior to this time, the session records were burned and there is no mention of its early history except in the report of Lima presbyter}- in 1873, but it was proba- bly organized by the Maumee presb}i:er}-. The following are charter mem- bers and early members of the church: Airs. Elizabeth Foltz, Solomon Young and wife, Charles McDonald and wife, AA'alter Day and wife, Tohn Sturgeon and wife. William Barton and wife. John Askam and wife and James R. Lafferty and wife. The present brick church building was erected in 1873 at a cost of three thousand dollars, on a centrally located lot near the present high school building. It is modern and thoroughly equipped in ever\- respect, with steam heat, electric lights and a new piano, which has recently been purchased for the use of the church and Sunday school. The following ministers have served the church: Rev. Perrv C. Bald- win: Rev. \\'infield Hill, 1878-79; Rev. D. W. Cooper, 1880-83: Rev. I. X. Thomas, 1886-87; R^v. Adam Schafer, 1891-92: Rev. J. L. Grim, 1894-98; Rev. David Demster, 1899-1900; Rev. Harry C. Cunningham, 1901-02: Rev. W. H. Hyatt, 1905-08; Rev. A. S. Kerr, 1910-11. Rev. E. Layport, D. D., the present minister, began his work on October i, 191 1. The church saw the greatest years of its prosperit}- under the lead- PUTXAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 77 ership of Rev. David Demster and Rev. Harr)- C. Cunningham. During their pastorate the church membership numbered one hundred and fort^■. The present membership of the church is sixt)--five. The church has main- tained a \-ery prosperous Sunday school throughout its entire existence and at present Charles Henr\- is at the helm. He is ably assisted by a faithful and competent corps of officers and teachers. The church has been weak- ened at times Ijy removals and deaths, }'et it has always maintained its har- monious and prosperous standing in the village. Some of the leading fami- lies of Leipsic have been enrolled under its banners and the church at pres- ent is in a prosperous condition and is doing a splendid work with an ever- increasing membership. The session is composed of Thomas H. Rower. H. F. Wendell, Orville Young, Chaftes Henry, Herman .Montouth, Hartley AlcClung and James :\IcDonald. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, COLUMBUS GROVE. The Presbyterian church at Columbus Grove bears the distinction of being the oldest congregation of Presbyterians in Putnam countv. The first church was organized on September 9, 1836, with the following charter mem- bers : Samuel McComb, Anna AlcComb, Adam Turner, Joseph Belford, Eleanor Belford, Joseph Nichols, Hannah Xichols, Martha Nichols, William -AlcComb, Elizabeth .AlcComb. Job Combs, Jane Combs, Martha Combs and Jane Pier. A log church building was constructed in order that this loyal band of fifteen advocates of Presbyterianism could have a place in which to worship The congregation soon began to grow and flourish, as more settlers came into the county and the country became more prosperous. The log structure was soon found to be inadequate to accommodate the ever-increasing workers and on January 28, 185 1, the contract was let for a new frame building This was dedicated on December 28, 1851, under the pastorate of Rev Wil- liam K. Bryce. The cornerstone for the present beautiful structure was laid on November 3, 1901. This building was dedicated on October 5 190-. under the pastorate of Rev. S. Delmar Conger, at a cost of twelve thousand dollars. The parsonage was purchased in 1884, under the pastorate of Rev Edward Lauport, at a cost of three thousand dollars. The following ministers have served the church : William AlcCookin exact date unknown; James H. Anderson, September i, 1840-April 14 i84r William K. Bryce, February, 1849-September, 1868; Francis L^•nn August' 12 - b . 178 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. i870-Aug"ust, 1872; J. B. Strain, January, 1873-January, 1876; David Kin- gery, October i, 1876-November 10, 1878; J. Emory Fisher, April i, 1879- April I, 1882; R. li. McDonald, May i, 1883-May i, 1884; Edward Lay- port, June I, 1884-May, 1889; A. M. Chapin, October i, 1889-October i, 1891; Thomas F. Boyd, January i, 1892-April i, 1894; George McKay, Oc- tober I, 1894-April I, 1898; James K. Argo, October 23, 1898-November i, 1899; S. Delmar Conger, January i, 1900-January i, 1909; Ralph W. Kohr, April I, 1909, to the present time. Revs. McGookin, Anderson, Brice, Lynn, Strain, Kingery, Fisher, McDonald, McKay and Argo have served the church as stated supply. The other ministers who have served the congregation were regular pastors. This congregation is one of the largest in the county and has had a steady growth from the time it was founded. The resident membership num- bers two hundred and fifty-five at the present time, with out-of-town mem-' bers three hundred and fifteen. THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. The Congregational church of Vaughnsville, Riley township, was or- ganized in 1889. This church is an offspring of the Gomer Congregational church of Allen county and bears the distinction of being the only Congrega- tional church in Putnam county. Dr. John Gethin Thomas was the founder of this church and under his leadership the beautiful church building was erected, at a cost of five thousand dollars. This church building still serves the congregation and is in excellent condition. The ministers who followed Reverend Thomas have been as follows : D. A. Evans, exact date unknown; John G. Evans, 1906-1912; John Mor- gan Williams, 1912 to February 13, 1915 ; and the present pastor, David Will- iam Fletcher, who began his duty in March, 1915- The chui-ch parsonage has but lately been remodeled and is now valued at three thousand dollars. It is a very pretty and commodious structure in which to house the minister. The growth of this church has been steady and no divisions or dissensions have ever arisen in its ranks of workers. There are at present one hundred and forty-two members enrolled under its banner. The Sunday school, under the direction of Lloyd Roberts, is very active and has an attendance of one hundred and twenty-eight. The Young Peo- ple's Society of Christian Endeavor has an enrollment of forty members PUTNAM COUNTYj OHIO. lyq UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH, CONTINENTAL. The United Brethren church of Continental, Ohio, was organized in ! with twenty-four charter members, comprising thirteen famiHes in Contmental. The following ministers have served the church : W. J. East- brook, R. A. Bales, F. E. Fitzwater, A. F. Light, G. B. Fisher, F. V. Newell, E. E. W'illiams, C. W. Jamison, M. F. Scouten, J. G. Turner, S. S. Wag- ner, R. ^V. Wilkis, Bittner, R. W. Kester, G. E. Burrell, Cora Fester and the present incumbent, O. M. Martin, who is finishing his third year. The present church building was erected under the pastorate of Rev. A. F. Light, at a cost of three thousand dollars. Since that time the congregation has' built a parsonage, at a cost of one thousand six hundred dollars. The mem- bership at present numbers one hundred and thirty. The church has the following auxiliaries : Sunday school, Young People's Christian Endeavor, \\'oman's Missionary Association and Ladies' Aid Society. UNITED BRETHERN CHURCH, WLSTERMAN. The AVisterman United Brethren church was organized in this strono- .community with thirty-five charter members. The congregation began to grow and flourish and about the >-ear 1884 a frame church building was erected, at a cost of six hundred or seven hundred dollars. The follou ing ministers have ser\'ed the church : Swanev Xewell Frank E. Fitzwater, Williams, Jameson, AA'agoner, Keineth, Miss Cora Tester and the minister, O. M. Martin, who serves the church from Continental The church has an active Sunday school and also a Young People's Christian Endeavor Society, both of which are wel! patronized bv the younger mem- bers of the church. The congregation numbers eighteen. ST. JOHN'S UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH, COLUMBUS GROVE. The congregation of St. John's United Brethren at Columbus Grove was formally organized in 1858, by Rev. Daniel Clancy. The church was or<.an- ized with seven charter members, as follows: Rev. Daniel Glancv and wife Amanda Fruchey Lucy Monntz, Mr. and Mrs. Tracy, Joseph Billhamer.' The church was christened St. John's United Brethern in Christ. The first church building, which was erected in i860, served as a place of worship until 1878, when the present beautiful brick structure was erected, at a cost of ten thousand dollars. A parsonage was erected in 1897, at a cost of' one l8o PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. thousand dollars; in the spring of 1914 the parsonage was remodeled at a cost of one thousand four hundred dollars, and now provides the minister with very pretty and commodious quarters. The ministers who have served the church are as follows : Daniel Glancy, Miller, Essies, Chester Briggs, E. B. Maurer, Kemer, T. J. Harbaugh, East- man, Cyrus Bevington, S. H. Radabaugh, H. Shaffer, I. P. Lea, John Hippie, G. L. Bender, John Sergent, U. S. Long, J. O. Rhodes, T. D. Ingel, B. F. Fritz, W. E. Davis, C. J. Roberts, O. F. Langhbaum, M. E. Gibson, C. N. Crabb, and the Rev. C. M. Eberly, the present pastor, who took charge of the congregation on October i, 191 3. The growth of this church has been marked by its prosperity and rapid growth and at present four hundred members are enrolled under its banners. The church has a Woman's Missionary Society, Ladies' Aid Society and the Otterbin Guild, as auxiharies of the church. Ah of these church societies are in a good working condition. The church is thoroughly organized and doing a good active work in all of the different departments. UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH. The United Brethren church of Cascade, was organized in 1885, with eight charter members. The early records of the church have been destroyed and a complete history of the society is not possible. Rev. W. Davis served this charge as the first pastor. A frame church building was erected, at a cost of eight hundred dollars, this being made possible by the donations of the members. It was indeed a monumental task in those days to secure proper financial co-operation even in so worthy a movement. The original membership numbered eight families and this was aU there was to draw on to secure the funds for the erection of the first church. But, with a sublime self-sacrifice, they measured up to the situation and finally enough money was mustered together and soon the first United Brethren church at Cascade be- came a reality. The present membership embraces twenty-five souls and these are ministered to by the present pastor, E. Fitswater. CHRISTIAN CHURCH, VAUGHNSVILLE. The Christian church in Vaughnsville was organized on June 16, 1850, by Rev. Michael Martz, with seven charter members. The first services were held in a log school house near Vaughnsville. After a short time a PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. igl church building was erected in the village. The service of the pioneer pastors and their successors is of sacred memory to the settlers of this locality. Rev. Michael Martz's pastorate extended over a period of twenty-one years, from June i6, 1850, to September 30, 1871. The church at that time had preaching services one Sunday each month. In 1870 began the services of Rev. William Mormon, who became the regular pastor and continued as such until September 30, 1878. The following pastors have served since that time, most of them beginning their labors in October and concluding their services in September, in accordance with the conference pastoral year : Daniel Lepley, 1878-79; G. B. Garner, 1879-80; Rev. Lepley and Rev. Rimer, alternating, 1880-81; G. B. Garner, 1881-82; H. H. Holverstott, 1882-86; C. J. Hance, 1886-87; Daniel Lobaugh, 1887-89; Revs. Holverstott and Garner, alternating, 1889-90; A. Noffsinger, 1890-93; J. N. Steffanni, 1893-95; G. W. Foltz, 1895-00; O. E. McCleary, 1900-02; A. L. West, 1902-04; G. B. Garner, 1904-06; Ford Bolton, 1906-07; F. E. Rockwell, 1908-10; J. M. Miller, 1910-13; Otto Halfaker, 1913-14, and the present pastor, Sanford Beougher. There have been more than eight hundred names recorded in the roll book of the church since its organization, sixty-five years ago, and at present there are two hundred and seven acti\'e members. Prayer meetings, a Sun- day school, Christian Endea\'or Society, teachers' training and mission study classes, together with other societies, have assisted in the progress and de- velopment of the church. The present church building was dedicated in 1873. Since that time it has been remodeled and enlarged. Many improvements have been made, including a new church parsonage. Throughout its history the church has been the recipient of di^•ine blessings and the future successes of the church are assured. ANTIOCH CHURCH. The Antioch church is located in section 12, Monterey township. It was organized on June 20, 1882, with fourteen charter members. The mem- bers of this church built the present frame church building in the fall of that year, at a cost of six hundred and twenty-five dollars. Although this band of workers was not large, this was easily overcome by their liberality and desire for a place of worship. The first pastor to minister to their spiritual needs was S. E. Smith. The church has prospered and at present has a membership of forty-three. I 82 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. The present minister is A. W. Sparks. The young people of this congrega- tion are also active in the Sunday school work and Young People's Society. OTTAWA RIVER CHRISTIAN CHURCH. The Ottawa River Christian church was organized in i860. Through the earnest efforts of W. F McLane, Elder Enos Foster held a series of meetings at the home of Mr. McLane and, on June 20 of the following year, Rev. Enos Foster and Rev. D. B. Wilson organized a church, to be called the Ottawa River Christian church ; thus, the real organization did not occur until 1 861. The charter members were: W. F. McLane, Elizabeth McLane, Martha Clevenger, Ruth Chandler, Susanah Clevenger, Phoebe A. Guffy, Anna Evans and Jane McKinley. A number of additions were recorded in February of the following year and Elder Foster was retained as the church pastor. In 1862, with the aid of the citizens in the neighborhood, a neat little house of worship was erected on a lot donated by John Guffy, on the banks of the Ottawa river. This building was completed and dedicated to the services of God, November 30, 1862, by Elders Harvey and Martz. On December 13, of the same year, church officers were elected. Jesse C. Darbyshire was elected to the office of deacon and served in that capacity until his death, August 14, 1894. In 1863 Elder Martz was chose as minister and served the church for fourteen years. On May 4, 1867, Henry Funk was chosen as assistant deacon and held that office until his death, in 1879. The following ministers have served the church since Elder Martz ceased his labors, up to the year 1895 : W. C. Rimer, John Gelispie, Lewis Gander, G. B. Garner and A. Noffsinger. The present beautiful church was erected in 1879 and will accomodate four hundred and fifty persons. The membership of the church numbers over two hundred and fifty souls. MT. ZION CHURCPI, MONROE TOWNSHIP. The Mt. Zion church was organized in 1875 with twelve charter mem- bers. This was the first church organized in this township, outside of the town churches of Continental. The first building, which is still serving the congregation as a place of worship, was completed in 1874. It will be seen that the church building was constructed and a place of worship afforded and later the congregation PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 83 was formally organized. This building was erected at a cost of two thousand dollars and is in a good state of preservation at the present time. Rev. Gelispie served the congregation as the first regular minister. The present incumbent, Rev. C. J. Hance, serves the church as a charge from Spencerville. This church is situated in the northwestern part of Putnam county and has drawn its members from the country around this section. The present membership numbers forty-five. The church supports a well-attended Sun- day school. LUTHERAN CHURCH, CONTINENTAL. The Lutheran church at Continental was organized on August 2, 1896, by Rev. Frank C. Longaker. The total membership is the beginning num- bered only eighteen. The corner stone for a church building was laid in August, 1897, and in November of the same year the building was completed. This was a brick structure, erected at a cost of two thousand six hundred dollars. It is rather remarkable to note that this little band of eighteen followers were perma- ently located in a year after they were organized. The ministers who have served this congregation are Rev. Frank C. Longaker, the founder of the congregation and under whose charge the church building was erected ; Rev. Schroeder, date not known definitely ; Rev. J. N. Barrett, June, 1901-June, 1906; Rev. J. Walter Bressler, June, 1908- February, 1910; Rev. G. M. Gran, June, 1910-October, 1914; Rev. Richard Rassmussen, May, 1915. The church has passed through many years of prosperous growth and at present has a membership of forty-five. The Ladies' Aid Society is a strong auxiliary to the church. CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN (DUNKARD), BLANCHARD. It is a lamentable fact that the early records of Blanchard have never been recorded or have been very carelessly destroyed. This makes the church history a matter of memory and not altogether authentic in some of the dates. In 1840 the first Dunkard (Brethren) church was located at what is now the Blanchard church, at a point five miles southeast of the town of Continental. One of the first Dunkard settlers seems to have been a man whose name was Prowant. Mr. Prowant was the father of five sons, four of whom later 1 84 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. became active ministers in the Dunkard faith. Three of these sons spent their entire hves in the Blanchard church. Meetings were held in the homes of brethren and were conducted by ministers from Allen county until the year 1850. In that year, John Prowant was elected to the ministry of that church, and this must be about the date that the Blanchard church was organized. After the church organization the serv- ices were held in school houses and the homes of members until 1886, when the church building, which is located one-half mile west of DuPont, was erected and dedicated. It is a neat, plain house of worship and was erected at a cost of two thousand five hundred dollars. The following is a list of ministers who have been elected to the ministry from Blanchard church mem- bership: John Prowant, first elder or bishop; Henry Prowant, William Prowant and Daniel Prowant, all of whom are deceased; Amos Budd, Harry Fuller, D. P Weller and L. H. Prowant. Reverends Fuller, Weller, Prowant and Prowant are still actively engaged in the labors of the Blanchard church, with Elder D. P. Weller as overseer of the work. Between the years 1886-90 the Sunday school was organized and is now in a prosperous condition, with an attendance which rivals any in the county, under the superintendency of Floyd Clevenger. Many members have been lost by emigration. The membership at present numbers one hundred and fifty souls. TOWNSHIP CHURCHES. The complete history of quite a number of the township churches of Putnam county is impossible to get. This is due to the fact that there have been many changes. Churches have been organized and lots purchased, and later some of these churches have been disbanded, to unite with other congre- gations. In consequence of these changes, the records of the churches were, in many instances, lost or destroyed. By running the deed records of the county, the denomination of many of these churches was ascertained, but other information concerning the church was not obtainable. A list of these follows, which proves rather interesting : In Liberty township, section 16, a lot was purchased, April 3, 1888, for two hundred dollars. The Evangelical church trustees transacted this busi- ness, but other early history of this church was not available. In Liberty township, section 11, a lot was purchased, December 28, 1883, by the trustees of the Bethel church for a consideration of five dollars. In Sugar Creek township, section 8, there are two deed records for PUTNAM COUNTY, OPIIO. 1 85 church property. The trustees of the Sugar Creek Baptist church purchased a lot for church purposes, April 21, 1854; also, the trustees of the Predestin- arian faith purchased a lot. On April 19, 1884, the trustees of the Baptist church sold their lot and in the same year leased it of the new owner for church purposes. In Sugar Creek township, section zj, there are three records of land conveyance to trustees of different churches for purposes of worship. These are the Welsh Methodist Episcopal church, the Welsh Congregational and the Salem Congregational. In Jennings township, section 2, the trustees of the United Brethren church purchased property for one thousand five hundred dollars. This was on February 23, 1892. In section 26, the trustees of the ?\Iethodist Episcopal church purchased a lot for church purposes, May 22, 1877. In Van Buren township, section 27, the trustees of the Evangelical church purchased a lot for the consideration of one dollar, on May 18, 1875. The church lot for the Riley Creek Methodist Protestant church, section 36, Ottawa township, was purchased by the trustees, October 5, 1855, for one dollar. This was one of the oldest churches in the county. In Greensburg township, section 10, a conveyance was made on January 13, 1896, to the trustees of the ATennonite church for the consideration of one hundred dollars. In Blanchard township, section 13, the trustees of the Church of God purchased a lot for one dollar, May 7, 1887. A rather interesting convey- ance is noted in Blanchard township, section 8. On October 25, 1856, the trustees of the United Brethern church purchased a lot for a consideration of one dollar. On April 13, 1875, the trustees of this denomination sold the lot to the trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church. In Perry township, section 8, a conveyance was made to the trustees of the German Baptist church, on February 5, 1887, for the consideration of thirty dollars. In section 11, the trustees of the United Brethren church purchased a lot for one dollar, July 22, 1886. Another conveyance in this same section was that of the Methodist Episcopal church trustees, March 14, 1874. On October i, 1899, they transferred this lot to the trustees of the United Breth- ern church, who used it for church purposes for a short time and then sold it to the township to be used for a township house. In Riley township, section 11, a conveyance was made to the trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church, June 27, 1863. On May 12, 1900, the Citizens Society of Riley township, section 3, purchased a lot to be used for l86 PUTNAM COUNTY^ OHIO. church purposes. On November 7, of the following year, they transferred their deed to this lot to the trustees of the United Brethren church. On June 15, 1888, the trustees of the Mennonite church purchased a lot in Riley town- ship, section 16, for fifty dollars and erected their beautiful church building. The society is very active at the present time. On September 21, 1868, the trustees of the United Brethern church pur- chased a lot in Pleasant township, section 22, to be used for church purposes. On June 29, 1861, the trustees of the United Brethern church of Jackson township, section 11, purchased a lot on which to build a church. On October 5, 1889, the trustees of the Christian church purchased a lot for church purposes in Monterey township, section 12. In this same section the trustees of the Antioch church purchased a lot, August 16, 1904. Some of these churches are still active, others are served by a supply minister and a few have been disbanded entirely. SS. PETER AND PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH, OTTAWA. In January, 1861, Matthias Muller, a resident of Ottawa, donated one acre of land as a site for a church. Although the Catholics residing at Ot- tawa were identified with the parish of St. John's church at Glandorf, they had been petitioning for permission to build a church of their own. This rec[uest was granted by Bishop Rappe in 1868 and the Rev. A. Reichert, pastor of Glandorf, was commissioned to solicit subscriptions for that ob- ject. The cornerstone for the new church was laid .on June 14, 1868, but the building was not completed until 1872. It was dedicated on August 15, of that year, by Bishop Gilmour and placed under the patronage of the apos- tles, Ss. Peter and Paul. It is a handsome brick structure, fifty by one hun- dred and thirty feet, and the building alone cost approximately eighteen thousand dollars. The present fine organ was purchased in 1882, at a cost of one thousand eight hundred dollars. The children of the parish attended the Catholic district schools until 1887, when a brick school and residence for the teachers was erected, at a cost of four thousand five hundred dollars. This is conducted by Sanguinist Sisters. The present spacious brick pastoral residence was built in 1892, under the pastorate of Father Dick, at a cost of nearly three thousand dollars. The following Sanguinist Fathers have had charge of the parish : Revs. A. Reichert and J. Marty, 1868-73; Rev. F. Schalk, 1873-76; Rev. C. Roess- ner, 1876-78; Rev. R. Abbrederis, 1878-83; Rev. B. Boebner, 1883-91; Rev. A. Dick, 1891-97; Rev. Bernard Russ, 1897-1900 (now deceased); Rev. A. UKV. MICHAEL Mri':;LLKR. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 187 Dentinger, 1900 to the present time. The church property is in excellent condition and free from debt. The congregation is composed chiefly of Germans, or their descendants. IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH, OTTOVILLE. Through the untiring efforts and self-sacrificing generosity of Father John Otto Bredeick, the spiritual wants of the few early settlers of Ottoville were ministered to faithfully until his death in 1858. In 1850 Father Brede- ick purchased forty acres of land and laid it out in town lots. The best were set aside for church purposes and the rest were sold, setting aside the pro- ceeds of their sale for the benefit of the church. In i860 Rev. F. Wester- holtz, who attended Ottoville from Delphos, took up this work left off by' Father Bredeick and in the fall of the same year the foundation for a new church was blessed. This was a frame structure, forty by eighty feet, and was dedicated in the spring of 1861. It was assigned to Rev. J. J. Goeb- bels, pastor of the Ft. Jennings church, who had charge of it until 1864. Rev. A. J. Abel, the first resident pastor of Ottoville, had charge of it until July, 1865, from which time until June, 1866, it was attended from Ft. Jennings. The following served as resident pastors: 1866-68, Rev. H. D. Best; Rev. Michael Muller, to January 27, 1900; Rev. H. AVichmann, to June, 1900; Rev. J. B. Mertes, the present pastor, who has the distinction of be- ing the only irremovable priest in the county. The rich land around Otto- ville was a great inducement to many Catholic German farmers to become its owners, with the result that the parish grew very rapidly. Father Mul- ler, seeing the increase in wealth and size of his charge, realized that a larger and more ample church was necessary, and with this object in view, he started a subscription for the erection of a church, his call on their gener- osity being met with a ready response. The plans for a church of pure Gothic design were submitted and approved by Bishop Gilmour. The cor- nerstone was laid on June 7, 1885, by the Very Rev. Administrator BofT, and in the summer of 1888 it was completed. It was dedicated on Septem- ber 23, 1888. The church is seventy-eight feet wide by one hundred and seventy feet long, and ninety feet in the transept, with two towers one hun- dred and eighty feet tall. Much taste is shown in the painting and frescoing of the pillars and groined ceiling; in fact, the whole presents a beautiful and striking appearance. It was finished at a cost of sixty thousand dollars. In 1890 a steam plant was installed in the church, at a cost of two thousand one hundred dollars. In 1892 a set of stations was placed in position, at a 1 88 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. cost of two thousand two hundred dollars. In 1898 the present splendid altar was placed in the church, at a cost of three thousand dollars. The church is now fully equipped and it is needless to say that its furnishings are the best. In 1901 a pastoral residence was built; this is of brick and highly in keeping with the adjacent church. In 1898 an organ was installed. at a cost of four thousand dollars. ST. mary's church, leipsic. The history of the congregation at Leipsic dates back to about 1873, when a few Catholics began to settle here and were attended by Rev. Henry Kaempker, of New Cleveland, from 1874-78- The first church, a small frame structure, twenty-five by forty-five feet, was erected, under the di- rection of Rev. Kaempker, in 1876, at a cost of five hundred dollars. Rev. John Bertemes served Leipsic, from New Cleveland, as a mission from Janu- ary, 1889, until February, 1891, when he was appointed first resident pas- tor.' From 1878 to 1889 the congregation was attended by Revs. Joseph Rosenberg and Joseph Eyler. During Rev. Rosenberg's administration, two lots were purchased, in May, 1887, to serve as a site for the prospective pastoral residence and school. The pastoral residence was built during the time of Rev. Eyler, at a cost of one thousand four hundred dollars. The foundation of the large frame church was blessed on August 30, 1891, by the Rt. Rev. Mgr. F. M. Boff, and this structure was completed in 1892, under the pastorate of Rev. Bertemes. It was dedicated on May 14, 1893, by Bishop Horstmann. This church is forty-five feet wide, fifty-seven feet in the transept and one hundred and two feet long; the interior height is thirty-four feet and the spire is one hundred and twenty-five feet high. It has a seating capacity of six hundred when the large gallery is used, and was erected at a cost of about twelve thousand dollars. Father Bertemes organized the first parochial school, in October, 1890, and it was in charge of lay teachers until May i, 1899, when the building was destroyed by fire. During the summer of the same year a new four-room brick buildmg was constructed, at a cost of five thousand dollars. Three teachers are in charge of the school, which has an attendance of one hundred and five pupils. The ministers who have served the congregation since 1900 are: Rev. John Baumgartner, Rev. Stephen Weber, Rev. Carl Alter, Rev. Leon Plumanns, and the present pastor. Rev. John B. Wendling. *->• \jl^^tK2^::i^^^^tm ii lirn'MtJOT—wl^^M^^^^^^^B i:^ \ '€|^ z,z ^^1 1 '. ■Pj^i^ i jf^HBBH^^B 1 "^ ^H -»-aE ■Wl < j:. ST. MAKY'S CHT'ltCH. < tTTOVILLK. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 89 ST. MICHAEL S CHURCH, KALIDA. The Catholics at Kalida were identified with St. John's parish at Glan- dorf, but as early as 1861 they were desirous of having a church of their own. In the year 1861 they put their desires in the form of a request, and the Rev. Joseph J. Goebbels, pastor of the Ft. Jennings congregation, made the preliminary arrangements for its erection. A lot was purchased and active work was begun on the building, but destiny decreed that the work- ers" desires should not be granted, at least at that time, for in the same year the county seat of Putnam county was transferred from Kalida to Ottawa. This caused a great disturbance in the business interests of Kalida and cpite a few of the Catholics removed to other places. In consequence of this, the unfinished structure was abandoned. Sixteen years elapsed before anything more was done towards the erection of a new church. But, in the mean- time, many Catholics had settled in and near Kalida, so that by 1877 they numbered seventeen families. In 1877, after they bought and paid for a fine lot in September of the previous year, they petitioned the Rev. Michael [Nluller, pastor of the Ottoville church, to aid them in erecting the much-desired church, for which they also obtained Bishop Gilmour's con- sent. A subscription to the amount of four thousand dollars was raised by Father ^luUer, after which active work was begun on the building, a brick edifice, forty-two by sixty-five feet. Its cornerstone was laid on June 16, 1878, and the church was dedicated on December ist of the same year, to St. ;\Iichael. The congregation was attended, alternately, from Ottoville and Ft. Jennings, on every second Sunday, until January, 1888, when the mission was placed in charge of the Sanguinist Fathers, at Glandorf. The first was Rev. Rochus Schuly, who was succeeded, in June, 1894, by the Rev. Chrvsostom Hummer, who had the church greatly enlarged in 1895. Its width at present in the transept is fifty-six feet, and its length is one hun- dred and thirteen feet; the present graceful spire was also built during Fa- ther Hummer's regime. About seven thousand dollars was expended on the enlargement of the church, the frescoing and other improvements. The ren- ovated and practically new church was dedicated on May 17, 1896, by Bishop Horstmann. In September of the same year Father Hummer was succeeded by Rev. Valentine Schirack, and, being the first resident pastor of the con- gregation, Rev. Schirack resided at Kalida from May, 1900, until 1903, when he was succeeded by the present pastor, Rev. M. Muehe. Father Schirack succeeded in paying off the entire church debt, besides procuring two church IQO PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. bells, at a cost of one thousand dollars, and in the spring of the following year, 1899, he raised a subscription of four thousand dollars for a pastoral residence, which was completed in May, 1900, at a cost of five thousand dollars. The children attended the so-called Catholic ."District Schools" until recently, when a parochial school building, a two-story brick structure, was constructed at a cost of ten thousand dollars. Four Sisters of Divine Provi- dence serve the school, which has an enrollment of one hundred and seventy children. The present parish numbers nine hundred and forty-five souls. The total value of the entire church property is approximately sixty thou- sand dollars. ST. NICHOLAS' CHURCH, MILLER CITY. The present flourishing parish of. Miller City was organized in 1886 by the Rev. Joseph Rosenberg, then pastor of the New Cleveland church. Nichols Noirot presented two lots for the church site and in 1887 active work was begun on a building by Father Rosenberg, which was completed in the following year under the direction of Rev. Joseph Eyler, at a cost of about two thousand dollars. St. John's parish, of Glandorf, donated four hundred dollars to the mission of Miller City and also gave the pews which were formerly used in their church. The church was dedicated on August 26, 1888, by Mgr. F. M. Boff, V. G., and placed under the patronage of St. Nicholas. Before the appointment of the first resident pastor, Rev. Charles Wag- ner, in July, 1899, it was attended as a mission from New Cleveland, and later from Leipsic. During the time Rev. J. Bertemes attended Miller City from Leipsic (1889-99), he purchased two acres of land to be used as a ceme- tery. This was blessed on June 11, 1893, and, on November 30, 1896, he purchased three lots as a site for a school and pastoral residence. The pres- ent pastoral residence was built in 1899 by Father Wagner. The church was so badly damaged by lightning on September 4, 1898, that preparations were at once made for a new building. The cornerstone for a brick church, fifty-four by one hundred and- twenty-four feet, was blessed October 28, 1900' by Bishop Horstmann. It is of Gothic architecture and cost twenty-three thousand dollars. The pastors serving this charge since Father Wagner (1899-1903) are as follows; Rev. Widemer, 1903-1913; Rev. Henry Ger- wert, 1913 to the present time. During the pastorate of Father Widemer a parochial residence was built, in 1909, at a cost of five thousand dollars. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ST. Joseph's church, ft. jennings. 191 The spiritual wants of the early settlers of Ft. Jennings were attended by Father Horstmann, of Glandorf, for many years before the town was laid out, services being held in private houses during that period. In 1^38, Rev. Tunker, pastor of the Dayton church, attended the mission of Ft. Jennings and two years later the Catholics and Protestants united and built a log house to ser\e for church and school purposes. This very unusual ar- rangement, made with the sanction of Father Horstmann, remained in effect over fourteen years. Rev. Henry Herzog was appointed the first resident pastor in 1840, but remained less than a year. Father Horstmann then took charge of the mission and attended it until his death in February, 1843. His successor at Glandorf, Rev. George Bohne, also attended Ft. Jennings until 1 85 1, when he was appointed resident pastor of the place. Upon his death, September 20, i860, it was attached to Delphos as a mission and at- tended by Rev. F, Westerholt until March, 1861, when Rev. Joseph Goeb- bels was appointed resident pastor; he remained until 1864. His successors are the following: Rev. H. E. Hamers, 1864-66; Rev. C. Viere, 1866-67; attended from Ottoville by M. Muller, 1867-70; L. Zumbuhl, 1870-73; C. Darbier, September, 1873, until his death August 23, 1876; J. A. Michen- felder, August 1876, to May, 1879; G. Peter, 1879-81 ; J. Heidegger, 1881-88; C. Braschler, 1888-99; M. Arnoldi, 1899, to November 5, 1914; the present incumbent, John A. Christ, became pastor of the church on the latter date. Father Bohne was desirous of a new church as soon as he became resi- dent pastor in 1 85 1, but he did not get the second of his people until a year later, when the foundation of a brick church, forty by sixty feet, was laid. Two years later it was completed at. a cost of two thousand dollars and on December 24, 1854, it was dedicated to St. Joseph. Although plain and without any architectural adornment, it served its purpose until the erection of the present beautiful structure. This was begun during the pastorate of Father Heidegger in the fall of 1882, and was dedicated on May 4. 1884, by Bishop Gilmour. It is of Gothic architecture, one hundred and thirty- two feet by fifty-five feet, and the furnishings are all of white oak. It cost about twenty-one thousand dollars. A two-story frame building served as pastoral residence for a number of years. In 1899 the present brick pastoral residence was built at a cost of seven thousand dollars. The congregation at present numbers eight hundred and twenty-seven. 192 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH, GLANDORF. The first Catholic place of worship in Putnam county was erected for Father Horstmann in Glandorf and on Easter Sunday, March 30, 1834, he celebrated the first mass in it. It was a small house, built of hewed logs, and served as a residence for Father Horstmann and also as a chapel. By 1836 the little colony of sturdy Germans had increased so that Father Horstmann's chapel would not accommodate them, and this necessitated the building of a new place of worship. The new church, a log structure, twenty-two by forty feet, and covered with split weatherboards, was built and dedicated in 1837. St. John the Baptist was chosen as its patron saint. In the same year a log school house was built and Father Horstmann served as its first teacher. The following year a log pastoral residence was built to replace the one of four years previous. Father Horstmann, whose health had begun to fail, asked Bishop Purcell for an assistant. In 1841 Rev. George Bohne was supplied. Two years later, February 21, 1843, Father Horstmann was called to his reward. Father Bohne soon began the task of erecting a brick church. The corner stone was laid in 1846 and the en- tire parish seconded Father Bohne in the undertaking. The building was dedicated on the first Sunday in Advent, 1848, and placed under the patronage of St. John the Baptist by Rev. A. Kunkler. The building was fifty by ninety feet and at that time was -considered without an equal in northwestern Ohio. Father Bohne resigned a few months before the church was dedi- cated and was transferred to Ft. Jennings. The Sanguinist Fathers were then placed in charge of the parish and in the fall of the same year estab- lished a convent. A list of the Sanguinist Fathers who have had charge of the Glandorf congregation follows: Revs. A. Kunkler, A. Herbstritt, M. A. Meyer, 1848-50; Rev. M. Homburger, 1850-53; Rev. A. Schelbert, 1853-58; Rev. M. A. Kramer, 1858-61; Rev. A. Reichert, 1861-74; Rev. B. Dickmann, 1874-81; Rev. M. Menk, May to October 1881 ; Rev. F Nigsch, 1881-97; Rev. T. Wittmer, 1897 to January, 1914; Rev. L. Schupp, since January, 19 14. In 1874, when Father Dickmann took charge of the church at Glandorf, he realized the pressing needs of a new church, as the present building was too small to accommodate the entire parish. In 1875 the foundation was laid and on June 24, 1876, the cornerstone was laid by the Rev. A. Kunkler. Owing to an unforeseen delay, when the completed spire was struck by sc7;...i:iirni • ,, iiliiiiliiiililliiliiililiilllllli ST, JOSHI'irS CHrUCJI and I'ASTOKAI. UIOSIDIOXOE, FT. .TEXXIXOS. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 93 lightning, the building was not completed until December, 1878, and was dedicated December 15, by Bishop Gilmour. The church, of pure Gothic architecture, is built of clear red brick, trimmed with sandstone. It is one hundred and seventy-five feet long and sev- enty feet wide, the width at transept being eighty-six feet; the spire is two hundred and twenty-five feet high. The interior is very impressive and inspires a feeling of reverence and awe. The richly-carved oak pulpit, which was ex- hibited at the World's Fair at Philadelphia, cost one thousand four hundred dollars. In 1888 altars, pews, stations and statuary were added, at a cost of five thousand three hundred dollars. In 1897 a town clock and four bells were installed by Father Wittmer. The parochial residence was finished in 1904 at a cost of fourteen thousand dollars. Glandorf has an excellent school, and although it is public in name, it is in charge of the church. In 1893 a fine house was built for the combined use of the organist and principal of the school. At present one lay teacher and six Sanguinist Sisters conduct the schools. Although Glandorf parish has been dismembered three times, neverthe- less it has a strong membership of three hundred. . HOLY FAMILY CHURCH, NEW CLEVELAND. In 1 861 the Rev. Sebastian Ganther organized a mission at New Cleve- land, while he was pastor of St. John's church at Glandorf. It was attended by the following pastors of Glandorf until 1873: Rev. Ganther, 1861-68; Rev. Engelbert Ruf, 1868-72, and Rev. Jacob Marte, 1872, to April, 1873^ from Glandorf as a mission. John Weis donated a two-acre tract of land in 1861 as a site for a church and pastoral residence. The church was built in the fall of the same year at a cost of one thousand seven hundred dollars and dedicated to the Holy Family. This was enlarged in 1881 and at present the church is fully equipped and its furnishings are very complete. In April, 1873, Rev. Charles Barbier was appointed to take charge of the congregation and bears the dis- tinction of being the first resident pastor. He served until March, 1874, when he was succeeded by Rev. H. Kaempker, who served until April, 1878. The following pastors have since served the church: Rev. E. Hipelius, April, 1878, to June, 1880; Rev. J. Rosenberg, June 1880, to April, 1888; Rev. J. Eyler, April, 1888, to January, 1889; Rev. J. Bertemes, January^ 1889, to 1891; Rev. Amadeus Dambach, 1891,1905; Albert Cerup, 1905- 13 194 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1914; A. R. Noltia, 1914, to present time. The first parochial residence was buiU by Father Barbier in 1873 at a cost of one thousand dollars. In 1906 Father Cerup built the present parochial residence at a cost of eight thousand dollars. Three years later a frame parish school was erected on a lot opposite the church, and placed in charge of the Sisters of St. Francis, who conducted it until 1889. At present the children attend the Catholic district schools. ST. Joseph's mission church, north creek. The Catholic families of North Creek, prior to the year 1889, were desirous of having a church of their own, as they found it difficult to at- tend mass at New Bavaria, with which parish they were identified. They made their desire known to Bishop Gilmour and he acceded to their wish in April, 1887. Three acres of land were donated by Ferdinand Ball as a site for the proposed church. The church building was a frame structure and cost one thousand two hundred dollars. The Ft. Jennings church donated the altar and a supply of vestments and the Glandorf congregation donated the pews. But for more than a year they were without the services of a. priest, owing to a shortage, and the little church was not used for its sacred purpose. The people who had made the sacrifices were obliged, therefore, to continue their afl[iliations with the parish of New Bavaria. But their desires were soon realized and in January, 1889, the resident pastor of Hol- gate was directed to attend the mission. In March, 1890, the Holgate pastor was removed to Toledo and the mission was again without the services of a pastor. Again, in June of the same year, it was attached to Holgate and has- been attended monthly from the place since that time. ST. Barbara's church, cloverdale. The Cloverdale congregation is an outgrowth of the Ottoville parish and consisted at first of only ten Catholic families. The surrounding coun- try is settled largely by prosperous German Catholic farmers, who form the principal membership of the congregation. In order to obviate the neces- sity of going to Ottoville, seven miles distant, the farmers petitioned Bishop' Horstmann for permission to erect a church for themselves. This permis- sion was granted as soon as they gave evidence of their ability to build and pay for the desired church. This was done in January, 1895, and the Rev. Michael Mueller, pastor of Ottoville, was commissioned to secure a proper PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 195 site to serve for a church, school and pastoral residence. A three-acre tract of land was bought and in the summer of 1898 a frame church, forty by ninety feet in size, was built at a cost of five thousand dollars. It was dedi- cated in August of the same year to St. Barbara. For two years Cloverdale was attended from Ottoville every Sunday as a mission by Father Mueller, assisted by Rev. Henry Wichmann. Father Wichmann was appointed resi- dent pastor of Cloverdale in June, 1900, and in the fall of the same year he had a residence buih at a cost of about three thousand dollars. The parish numbers about eighty-five families at present. The school children are ac- commodated by the Catholic district schools, a regular parochial school be- ing impracticable, as the children live too far from the church. In 1903-04 Father Wichmann succeeded in erecting a brick school building at a cost of twelve thousand dollars. Four teachers serve the school, which has an at- tendance of one hundred and eighty pupils. CHAPTER IX. NEWSPAPERS OF PUT-NAM COUNTY. In writing the history of Putnam county it is but meet that its newspa- pers receive specific mention, as they were not only among its first enter- prises, but aided greatly in the development of the county. They have given the general news on almost every subject of a public nature and have been prone to comment in a fearless manner upon public events. Before the Civil War there were but few daily papers in existence in this state, and they were not taken by the people generally, as the mail facilities were such that a daily paper would not reach the people here until at least a week after its publication. In the early history of this part of the state a number of newspapers were started, not only to promote the development of the various counties, but to promulgate political opinions as well. As the counties were formed their political complexion was in doubt and the partisans of both the Demo- cratic and Whig parties, the leading political organizations of that time, were anxious to obtain the ascendency. The general politics of that time in this part of the state showed a tendency toward Democracy. Whenever a Demo- cratic paper was started, the Whigs, if they had the political strength, started a paper in opposition, to advocate their principles. Partyism in those days, as between the Democrats and Whigs, was very intense and political questions were argued with a bitterness of feeling that does not now exist among political parties. Among the county newspapers published in this part of the State before the Civil War were the Kalida Venture, in this county; the Defiance Demo- crat and the Defiance Banner, at Defiance; the Hancock Courier, at Findlay; the Western Empire, at St. Marys ; the Lima Argus and the Lima Reporter, at Lima; the Section lo Budget and the Delphos Oracle, at Delphos; th)e! ,Fulton Democrat, at Ottokee, and possibly one or two other papers. In those days the successful publication of a county paper was a prob- lem difficult of solution. While the subscription price was twice as much as that of the papers of today, the circulation of the papers was very limited and the patronage equally limited in the way of advertising. The art of ad- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 197 vertising was only in its infancy, for what is now known as commercial or business advertising was scarcely known and such an advertisement would have been a novelty. The only advertising of the kind was that of patent medicines, the proprietors of which were certainly the pioneers in business advertising. The great revenue and the main support for the newspapers then was what is known as "legal notices," and the great amount of them requiring publication afforded a revenue to ihe publisher sufficient to keep his newspaper afloat for the entire year. Notices of foreclosure, sheriff's sales, cases in chancery, road notices, etc., were numerous and filled many columns of the newspaper. In those days what is known as the delinquent and forfeited land lists, which required publication, was a great source of revenue to the printer, the list making from three to four pages of the paper and was considered as a bonanza by the papers which published it. In those days the county newspaper had to cover considerable ground in its make-up. It had to give its readers literary matter, articles on scien- tific subjects, historical matter, natural history and much pertaining to the arts and sciences, as books were scarce and the masses of the people unable to purchase them. The proceedings of Congress and State Legislatures were published at length and the editorials were principally devoted to politics and the discussion of public and party questions. Considerable attention was also given to foreign news upon the arrival of steamships from foreign countries. This fact no doubt had a bearing upon the subject matter which ap- peared in the county papers of that time, as they were compelled to keep their readers informed in regard to matters of state, and to express the views of the editor upon all issues of a public nature. In this respect the county papers filled the wants of the people, who at the time were greatly interested in such matters. The county paper in those days was certainly ably edited, as much ability was displayed in the articles of its editor. However, if the newspaper of today was each week filled with the same kind of reading mat- ter as then published, its circulation would be very limited. But it was what the people of that day wanted and they were satisfied. There was scarcely a reference to local events and only things of more than ordinary import were mentioned, and they in a very brief manner, ex- cept in a cases of murder or fatal accidents. The county newspapers of ante-bellum days were very different in many respects from those of today. The paper upon which it was printed was made entirely of rags and was of excellent quality. The type used was much better than that of today, and would last five times as long, even if it 198 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. was run on a power press. The old hand press did not injure the type by impression Hke the modern presses, and the type produced a clear and clean impression, -even if the appliances for inking it were very crude and simple. Then, too, money was a scarce commodity in ante-bellum days and the newspaper publisher was compelled to take anything he could use in payment on subscriptions or advertising. For this reason, wolf scalps, raccoon skins, corn, pork, chickens, eggs, stove wood, dried apples, and scores of other mis- cellaneous products were gladly received by the editor. KALIDA VENTURE. The first newspaper of Putnam county was very appropriately called the Kalida Venture and it does not take a vivid imagination to figure out why the editor chose such a name. The venturesome editor was Francis Gil- lette, who at the same time eked out a livelihood by practicing law in the county seat. From the time of the first issue, February 20, 1841, Putnam county has not been without at least one paper, although the editors have undoubtedly often had a hard time to make both ends meet. The files of this Venture have not been preserved and the dates of changes in ownership are difficult to trace. However, the succeeding owners are known and are given in the order in which they had charge of the paper. Gillette was evidently not a success as a newspaper man, for within a short time he disposed of the paper to Horace Knapp, later the author of the "History of the Maumee Valley." Knapp struggled with the Venture until 1845, when James McKenzie, a prominent lawyer of Kalida, undertook to add editorial duties to his legal practice. This disciple of Blackstone must have been a man of ability, since he continued as owner and editor of the paper until 1854. At that time he was succeeded by Luther Wolf, and subse- quently John Dixon became the sole owner and editor and so continued un- til the county seat was moved to Ottawa in 1866. Just when Dixon moved his plant to the new county seat is not known, but it appears to have been In 1865 or the year following. With the change of location went a change of name and the Venture appears in Ottawa as the Citizen. The change of location and name seemed to have been too severe a shock, and the newly- born Citizen soon breathed its last. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 1 99 KALIDA SENTINEL. In 1865 the Kalida Sentinel was established by Elam Day. As the name indicates, it was a Democratic sheet. Just why the name Sentinel was early appropriated by Democratic editors will probably always remain a mystery, but it is safe to say that every paper bearing the name has been of that po- litical persuasion. As in the case of the Venture, the files of the Sentinel are missing and consequently exact dates are not available. Day was succeeded after a short time by Luther Wolf, who, in turn, was succeeded by Levi G. Lee. The paper must have been unprofitable, if frequent changes in owner- ship are any indication of the success of the enterprise. Lee evidently re- mained at the head of the paper only a short time, since it is known that M. G. Gillette was editing the paper during the Civil War. At the close of the war, presumably at the time the county seat was changed to Ottawa, the Sentinel was moved by Gillette from Kalida to Ot- tawa and rechristened the Putnam County Sentinel, a name which it has now borne for half a century. Upon the removal, there was a change in ownership, Gillette taking in as partners Stephen Godfrey and Leonard Mil- ler. Miller was intrusted with the editorial management and remained in this capacity until some time in 1866, when he retired from the newspaper business, Godfrey and Gillette continuing the paper until 1867. In June, 1867, George D. Kinder purchased Godfrey's interest in the Sentinel and a year later secured the interest of Gillette, thereby becoming the sole owner. Mr. Kinder continued as editor and proprietor for a period of thirty-five years and during his long connection with it built up a newspa- per medium which took high rank among the papers of the state. In 1900 Mr. Kinder decided to lay aside the cares of the editorial chair and sold his paper to a stock company. A stock company, with sorne changes in stock- holders, has been in charge of the paper down to the present time, although it has had several changes in the editorial management. In 1913 A. P. San- dles became the managing editor and has since continued to serve in that capacity. While Mr. Kinder has no financial interest in the Sentinel, he still retains his chair in the office of the paper and has assisted in the pub- lication of practically every issue for the past fifteen years with the excep- tion of the four years he spent in the treasurer's office. The love for his old paper keeps him in close touch with the business and the probability is that the Sentinel will continue to bear the impress of his individuality as long as he lives. Few men in the state have been connected with the newspaper ^°° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. business longer than Mr. Kinder and still fewer have made as pronounced! success in this line of activity. PUTNAM COUNTY DEMaKRAT. Der Demokrat was established at Ottawa in 1887 by C. W. Bente. He remained in charge of the paper until September, 1890, when he sold it to Henry Holterman. A year later Mr. Holterman disposed of the paper to Carl Wohlfarth, who was sole owner and editor until May, 1892, at which time he sold a half interest in the paper to H. F. Rauh. The new firm was. known as the Demokrat Publishing Company and continued in charge of the paper until March 4, 1893. On that date Mr. Rauh bought the plant at receiver's sale and at once made plans to place the paper on a sound finan- cial basis. He succeeded beyond his expectations and within a short time it was enjoying a large circulation and advertising patronage and became one of the leading German publications of the Northwest. Mr. Rauh has now been in charge of the paper for nearly a quarter of a century and has built up a circulation which extends far beyond the limits of Putnam county. OTTAWA TELEGRAM. During the Civil War, in 1862 or 1863, John M. McElroy, now editor of the National Tribune of Washington, D. C, started a paper in Ottawa which he called the Telegram, but, for reasons not known, it was destined to live for only a short time. McElroy soon disposed of the paper to Jacob S. Foster, who struggled with the wavering sheet a few months and then discontinued it. OTTAWA GAZETTE. The Ottawa Gazette was founded in September, 1881, by C. L'H. Long, who retained his connection with the paper for a few years and then disposed of it to George Bassett. The new proprietor continued in charge but about six months and then sold it to Hoffa & Vale, the new proprietors managing the paper until the spring of 1893. In that year C. P. Godfrey became the owner and ran the paper until about 1901. He was succeeded by J. H. Letcher and after struggling for a few years with the sheet he sold it to E. B. Walkup, who continued as owner and editor until 1913. At that time a stock company was organized to take over the paper. This stock company was composed of the following persons: J. P. Leasure, Jean P. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 201' Vale, G. A. Stauffer, L. E. Eastman, Angela Eastman, A. Graham, D. R.. Jenkins, St., H. I. and E. M. Kahle, Samuel Burkholder, William Rimer,. Guy R. Coit and Charles Veach. Jean P. Vale was made editor and man- ager and continued in this double capacity until April 26, 1915. She then retired from the paper and the editorial management was assumed by G. A. Stauffer, while B. H. Spitler became the business manager. At the same- time L. E. Eastman became the secretary of the board of directors. LEIPSIC FREE PRESS. The Leipsic Free Press was established on September 13, 1878, by W- W. Smith, who remained the proprietor and editor until his death, on Febru- ary 14, 1912. For many years he issued it as a semi-weekly. After his- death his son, George F., assumed charge of the paper and still continues- as editor. LEIPSIC TRIBUNE. The Leipsic Tribune was founded in 1891 by Pratt Kline. He was- succeeded by H. F. Wendle, who retained connection with the paper as pro- prietor and editor for a number of years and then disposed of it to W. H. Holderman, the present editor. OTHER COLUMBUS GROVE PAPERS. There have been at least two other papers published at Columbus Grove — the Record and the Clipper, but neither paper had more than an ephemeral existence. The Clipper was founded by F. S. Kline in 1893 a^^id lived a- more or less precarious existence for about three years. KALIDA RECORD. The Kalida Record was established in the nineties by E. J. Bolerjack, who was succeeded by W. N. Curtiss, the present owner and editor. Curtiss- also printed the Ottoville Leader, a weekly paper devoted to Ottoville news and advertising, from December, 1912, to March, 1915. PANDORA TIMES. J. R. Swaney founded the Pandora Times in 1899 and conducted it for two years. In 1901 A. J. Stevens purchased the paper, but a few months 202 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. later disposed of it to D. B. Basinger, the present owner and editor. Mr. Basinger also issues from his press the Missionary Worker, a semi-monthly- publication, and the Baeschafter, a monthly German paper. CONTINENTAL UNION-NEWS. The Continental Union-Nezvs was started several years ago and was ■eventually disposed of to J. H. Hartman, who has been the editor since that time. Since he has the only paper in the town, he has made a financial success. THE PUTNAM COUNTY VIDETTE. The files of the Videttc are in very poor shape and many of the numbers ^re missing entirely, consequently the early history of the paper is hard to get. The Vidette was founded in 1873 by W. C. Tinge, but just how long he continued to edit the paper cannot be ascertained, nor who became his successor. The following is as complete a list of the editors as could be secured : Edward L. Voit, 1897-1902; Truman N. Varean, 1903-1904; Mrs. Jean P. Vale, September 16, 1904-November 18, 1904; H. B. Cartwright, November 18, 1904-May 12, 1905; A. R. Eversol, May 12, 1905-September 14, 1906; Mrs. J. P. Vale and Frank E. Ward, September 14, 1906-1907; Frank E. Ward, 1907-October i, 1914; W. H. Holderman, October i, I9i4,_ to the present time. OTTOVILLE TRI-COUNTY NEWS. The Ottozille Tri-County Ncivs was established in 1906 by Mr. Fluhart, a newspaper man who had been conducting a paper at Continental. The first issue of the paper was printed in Continental, but all of his succeeding issues were printed in Ottoville. Fluhart purchased a job printing outfit of C. B. Wannemacher, of Ottoville, in 1906, which Wannemacher had been operating since March, 1904. Fluhart's paper gave special attention to the news of Putnam, Van Wert and Paulding counties, hence the name of Tri-County News. A few years later, Fluhart sold the paper to Thomas Siebold, who -continued it under the old name until about 1910. In that year he moved ihe plant to Middlepoint, Ohio, where he is still in the newspaper business. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. OTTOVILLE LEADER. 203 After the Tri-Coiinty Nra's was discontinued, C. B. Wannemacher bought a good newspaper plant and in July, 1910, issued the first number of the Ottoville Leader. He printed the paper regularly until July 28, 191 1, when he issued his last number (Vol. II, No. 53). Shortly afterwards, Wannemacher disposed of his plant to W. N. Curtiss, who sold the press and part of the equipment, and installed the rest of it in the office of the Kalida Record, of which he was the owner and editor. In December, 1912, Curtiss began to issue the Ottoinlle Leader from the press of the Record in Kalida and continued to do so until the spring of 1915, when he discontinued it. At the present time Ottoville is without a paper, although the Kalida Record •devotes one page each week to Ottoville news and advertising. CHAPTER X. BANKS AND BANKING. THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF OTTAWA. The First National Bank of Ottawa was organized in 1903 with the following officers: D? N. Powell, president; S. F. DeFord, vice-president;. William Annesser, cashier. This is the only national bank in Putnam county. After twelve years of steadily increasing business, the bank issued the following statement: Capital stock, $25,000; deposits, $250,000; surplus,. $4,200. The management of the bank has always been conservative and. economical. The present officers are as follows : David N. Powell, presi- dent; S. F. DeFord, vice-president; William Annesser, second vice-presi- dent ; J. C. Jones, cashier ; William Annesser, S. F. DeFord, F. W. Hoffman,. J. C. Jones, James A. Maidlow, L. N. Welde, D. N. Powell, directors. THE BANK OF OTTAWA COMPANY. The Bank of Ottawa was originally organized as a private bank by I. H.. Kahle, Dr. W. F. Reed and W. H. Harper, Jr., on July 10, 1894. It con- tinued to operate as a private bank until November 26, 1904, when it was- incorporated under the laws of the state of Ohio, and has continued to oper- ate as a state bank since that date. The first officers were: Dr. W. F. Reed, president; I. H. Kahle, vice- president; W. H. Harper, cashier. The present officers are: M. A. Kahle,. president; J. W. Smith, vice-president; F. G. Kahle, cashier; G. W. Kahle,. assistant cashier; Albert K^hle, assistant cashier. It has a capital stock of $25,000, with deposits amounting to $550,000 and a surplus of $6,000. This is the oldest state bank in Putnam county and has the largest de- posits of any bank, either state or national, in the county. This bank has- long been recognized as one of the most popular banking institutions in this- section of Ohio. This is largely due to the conservative methods which the bank has at all times employed and to the fact that at the same time it has extended to its customers every courtesy consistent with conservative banking. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 205 CONTINENTAL BANK. The Continental Bank was organized in 1890, with the following of- ficers: J. H. Edwards, president; W. W: Edwards, vice-president; I. N. Bnshong, cashier. This bank is unincorporated and at present the lia- bilities amount to $1,000,000. The first bank building was destroyed by fire on June 8, 1912, and the present beautiful structure was erected the following year. The bank opened up for business in its new, modern, fire- and burglar-proof quarters, which were on the south side of the' railroad tracks, in October, 19 13. The present officers are : J. H. Edwards, president ; I. N. Bushong, vice-president ; C. P. Palmer, cashier. The Continental Bank has done an extensive real estate, mortgage and loan business and at the present time has more mortgages and loans in Put- nam county than any other banking firm. Every year has shown a marked increase in the business of this bank. FARMERS STATE AND SAVINGS BANK. The Farmers State and Savings Bank of Continental was organized in 191 3 and opened for business on January 31, 19 14, with a capital stock of $25,000. The officers are: C. E. Wright, president; A. J. Mullet, vice- president; C. R. Blauvelt, cashier. A new building is in process of con- struction, at a cost of fifteen thousand dollars, and bids fair to be the best bank building in the county. Seventy-five of the best citizens of the county arfe stockholders. Its deposits are $125,000, with a surplus of $1,000, and at the end of only fifteen months' business its resources amounted to over $153,000. This promises to be one of the strong financial institutions of the county. BELMORE BANKING COMPANY. The Belmore Banking Company, of Belmore, was organized in 1908. The present officers are: D. Ensininger, president; N. Speaker, vice-presi- dent; T. J. Veach, cashier. This banking company has a capital stock of $12,500 and deposits amounting to $85,000. 206 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. THE BANK OF LEIPSIC. The Bank of Leipsic was organized in 1888. It is a private bank, with the following stockholders : J. H. Edwards, I. N. Bushong, E. C. Edwards, VV. W Edwards' estate, John Edwards' estate, F. D. Rosenberger, Ruth Lesle, Mae E. Palmer, Lucile M. Spencer, Floss E. Closson, O. P. Edwards, T. C. Edwards, S. F. Edwards, W. E. Edwards, Lillian D. Emery. J. H. Edwards is president, and F. D. Rosenberger, cashier of the bank. THE people's bank COMPANY. The People's Bank Company of Columbus Grove was organized in 1892. This bank is one of the oldest in the county and has been under the same management for twenty-three years. It has an authorized capital stock of $60,000 and deposits of $450,000, with surplus and profits of $15,000. The present officers are: William Basinger, president; L. J. Lemley, vice- president : J. W. Core, cashier. It has had a steadily-increasing business ever since it was founded, and though there have been times when the country finances were not the best, still this bank has come through it all unscathed. The Vaughnsville Banking Company is a branch of the People's Bank- ing Company of Columbus Grove. THE people's BANK COMPANY. The People's Bank Company of Kalida was organized in 1899. The present officers are: Joseph Kahle, president; Edson Seitz, vice-president; Charles A. Borman, cashier. The capital stock at present is $25,000. The deposits aggregate $180,000, with a surplus of $1,250. THE FARMERS BANK COMPANY. The Farmers Bank Company of Pandora was organized in 1900 and has had a stead'y growth since that time. The figures of this bank give the best insight into its history and management: Capital stock, $25,000; deposits, $181,606.48; surplus, $6,500; resources, $259,774.91. The present officers are : David Risser, president ; Albert Schultz, vice- president; P A. Amstutz, cashier; W. M. Risser, secretary; Henry Gris- more, treasurer. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 207' BELMORE BANKING COMPANY. The Belmore Banking Company was chartered April i, 1907. The first officers were: G. G. Bennett, president; J. W. Swickard, vice-presi- dent; C. R. Blauveh, cashier; G. G. Bennett, C. R. Blauvelt, J. W. Swick- ard and Ford H. Lanning, directors. The capital paid in is $12,500. This banking company, although still young, has had a very nice business. The present officers are: D. Ensminger, president; N. Speaker, vice-president; T. J. Veitch, cashier; J. V. Knoxe, N. Speaker, R. J. George, D. Ens- minger, C. H. Stone, Mrs. James Robinson and Mrs. J. W. Wingate,. directors. OTTOVILLE BANKING COMPANY. The Ottoville Banking Company was incorporated under the laws of the state of Ohio, October 24, 1903, with the following incorporators : F. J. Maehlmann, John J. Miller, J. C. Wannemacher and Alpheus A. Roth. The first officers were C. J. Wannemacher, president; John J. Miller, vice- president; F. J. Maehlmann, cashier; Andrew Yocklin, Alpheus A Roth,, Edward G. Odenweller, J. H. Wannemacher, John J. Miller, J. C. Wanne- macher and F. J. Maehlmann, directors. The bank was opened for busi- ness, February i, 1904, with a capital stock and surplus of $40,000. The present officers are: J. C. Wannemacher, president; John J. Miller, vice- president; F. J. Maehlmann, cashier; Edith Maehlmann, assistant cashier;. Benedict Wannemacher, John H. Wannemacher, John J. Miller, J. C. Wan- nemacher, and F. J. Maehlmann, directors. THE OTTAWA HOME AND SAVINGS ASSOCIATION. The Ottawa Home and Savings Association was organized on July 28', 1888, with an authorized capital of $1,000,000. The purpose of this asso- ciation was the raising of money, to be loaned to its members and others, for the purpose of buying lots and building, making repairs and such other purposes as are authorized by law. Loans are made exclusively on first mortgages on real estate. The secretary and treasurer are under heavy bonds, and all officers are amenable to the state, under the criminal law^ to act in good faith. The loans are made in small sums and the most rigid- rules are enforced for the protection of all concerned; no loans are made outside the limits of Putnam county. The first officers were : W. W. Kelly, president; F. H. Brockman, vice-president; George C. Williams, -208 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. George D. Hamden, Calvin P. Godfrey, committee on securities; O. H. Odell, H. W. Schmitschulte ; E. R. Eastman, secretary; John F. Cover, treasurer; William C. G. Krauss, attorney. The present officers are: J. S. ■Ogan, president; H. W. Schmitschulte, vice-president; L. E. Eastman, sec- retary; E. R. Eastman, attorney; directors, J. S. Ogan, H. W. Schmit- schulte, Dr. Paul P. Sherwood, Herman Wise, George J. Keinath, George D. Kinder, George C. Williams. Membership is free to any resident of this county. At present the assets amount to approximately $245,000, and the depositors receive from five to six per cent annually, contingent upon their earnings. PALMER TOWNSHIP MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE ASSOCIATION. The Palmer Township Mutual Fire Insurance Association was organ- ized on December 8,- 1888, having received from the secretary of state a certificate of incorporation on this date. On January 12, 1889, the incor- porators held a meeting at school house number 2 in Palmer township, for the purpose of electing officers and adopting the constitution and by-laws for the association, according to law. The following officers were elected: William Schafer, president; John Williams, clerk or secretary; Victor Noi- rot, treasurer; J. N. Frankart, J. P. Rigg and Henry Homire, directors. The purpose of this association is to insure farm property against loss by fire, lightning and wind storms. The membership at present numbers one thousand two hundred and the mutual risks in force amount to over $3,250,000. The present officers are: R. R. Oliver, president; Henry P. Schafer, secretary; Michael Williams, treasurer; Victor Noirot, Hanry Stu- ben, C. E. Wight, Ed F. Quaintance and J. G. Yetter, directors. The terri- tory comprises fourteen townships : seven in Putnam county, three in Paulding county, two in Defiance county and two in Henry county. GLANDORF GERMAN MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE ASSOCIATION. The German Mutual Insurance Association, of Glandorf, was organized in 1878. It was the first mutual fire insurance association organized in the county. The purpose of this association was to insure against loss by fire, lightning and storms. There are eight hundred and ninety policies in force at the present time and the risks at present amount to $2,080,000. The present officers are: William Gulker, president; J. W. Halker, secre- tary; August Fiaher, treasurer; Joseph Stichochulte, F. W. Schwester and Joseph Gerdeman, directors. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 209 PUTNAM COUNTY GERMAN FARMERS MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY. The Putnam County German Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company was founded on September 19, 1895. E. B. Mphans served as the first presi- dent ; B. A. Ruhe, secretary ; Frank Recker, treasurer ; WilHam Kohls, G. B. Moening and Henry E. HermiUer, directors. The purpose of this organi- tion was to insure property against loss through fire, lightning and storm; also to insure live stock against fire and lightning. Mutual assessments are made only when losses accrue and an assessment of five cents on the one hun- dred dollars capital paid into the treasury each year is made for current •expenses and fees of officers. The membership at present numbers two hundred and fifty, with a capital stock of $710,000. The officers at present are: Joseph Hotnire, president; Jodokus Smitz, secretary; Frank Hohenbrink, treasurer; Joseph Brickner, B. Utendorf and B. Gerdeman, •directors. EXCHANGE BANK^ COLUMBUS GROVE. The Exchange Bank of Columbus Grove was estabhshed in 1873 by -Simon Mapel and others. Several years afterwards, W. T. Mapel took possession and continued the business until about 1893, when Wilson Martin and J. M. Crawford bought his interests. In a short time a partnership was formed by J. M. Crawford, B. F. Seitz, Sr., W. L. Crawford and F. E. Palmer, and the oificers were: J. M. Crawford, president; B. F. Seitz, Sr., vice-president; W. L. Crawford, cashier; F. E. Palmer, assistant cashier. This organization continued until W. L. Crawford died, in 1907, when Mr. Palmer became cashier, and W. M. Crawford, assistant cashier. In December, 1910, Mr. Palmer sold his interests to A. M. Heidlebaugh, who became vice-president, and W. M. Crawford was elected cashier. After the death of J. M. Crawford, on May 22, 1911, B. F. Seitz, Sr., was elected president. During January, 1914, Isaac Campbell, D. C. Campbell and F. R. Mason purchased the interest formerly owned by W. L. Crawford and this organiza- tion continued until September, 19 14, when the bank was incorporated, with the capital increased to thirty thousand dollars. Homer R. Day, Henry Cupp and James J. Kissell becoming stockholders. Early in the present year, 191 5, Dr. W. H. Begg and other stockholders bought the interests of Isaac ■Campbell and F. R. Mason. The present directors are : Homer R. Day, D. C. Campbell, Henry Cupp, B. F. Seitz, Sr., A. M. Heidlebaugh and W. M. 210 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Crawford. The officers are: A. M. Heidlebaugh, president; B. F. Seitz, Sr., vice-president, and W. M. Crawford, cashier. THE GLANDORF GERMAN BUILDING AND LOAN COMPANY. The Glandorf German Building and Loan Company was organized in 1887 by the following citizens of Glandorf: J. H. Uphaus, William Alte- kruse, J. W. Halker, Joseph Horstmann, Francis Nigsch, I. H. K'ahle, Will- iam Rampe, Sr., Joseph Winkelmann, Joseph Nienberg and William F. Hoff- man. The state of Ohio granted the charter for the incorporation of this company under its laws, September 24, 1887. This was the first building and loan company formed in Putnam county. The purpose of this company was the raising of money, which was to be loaned among its members. The prosperity of this company was assured from the start and the shares of stock were always in demand. This company was first organized with a capital stock of $250,000,, which was divided into 1,000 shares of $250 each. These shares were sold to residents of the county only. As evidence of the rapid growth of the company, the capital stock was raised to $1,000,000. The present officers are: J: W. Halker, president; F. W. Hoffman, treasurer; B. A. Nienberg, secretary; B. A. Unverferth, attorney; J. W. Halker, B. A. Nienberg, Theodore Deters, Matthias Kerner, F. W. Hoff- mann, G. H. Uphous, J. H. Kleman, F. W. Schroeder, Theodore Heckman, P. A. Misser and John Merschmann, directors. The money for loan was always in such demand that it was let out at auction and went to the highest bidder. The records show where this has reached as much as thirty-three cents premium and, in one instance, forty cents premium on the share of two hundred and fifty dollars and this was paid besides the regular six per cent interest. The present status of the business is on a- firm basis, although with the coming of the banks the rates of interest were cut down. The first officers were J. H. Uphaus, president; Dr. A. Borman, vice-president; H. F. Rauh, first secretary; William Altekruse, second secretary; Joseph Nienberg, treasurer; William Rampe, Sr., J. W. Halker, Ignatius Kahle, Henry AVort- koetter, Joseph Kersting and John Smith, directors. An interesting fact is noted concerning the minutes of the meetings and the early records. The early records were written in German script, but in 1905 they were changed to English, as the inspector could not read German. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 211 The minutes of this company are all in a good state of preservation and show the careful and business-like methods of the organization. OTTOVILLE FARMERS MUTUAL AID ASSOCIATION. The Farmers Mutual Aid Association of Ottoville was incorporated on February 23, 1904, and commenced business on July 2, of the same year. The first officers of the incorporation were as follows : President, Max Winkelman; secretary, George Altenburger ; treasurer, Anton Hoehn; direct- ors, John H. Wannemacher, A. J. Yocklin, Joseph Miehls, Charles F. Henry and Henry Giesken. The company's charter does not limit its territory, although all the policies are held in the counties of Putnam, Van Wert, Paulding and Allen. Fire insurance in the company covers all losses by both fire and lightning, whether on farm property, in the shape of dwellings or barns, or on live stock. All losses are covered by assessments, which may be made at the discretion of the directors. The success of the company has been remarkable from the start. The last annual statement of the secretary, George Altenburger, on December 31, 1914, shows that the company has 813 risks in force, with a gross amount of policies totaling $2,181,412.00. The total losses in 1914 amounted to $250.13, of which $129 was fire loss and $121.13, loss by lightning. From the beginning of its existence down to the end of 1914, the company has only paid out $17,566.76 for losses, thus demonstrating that insurance in the company has cost the policy-holders less than one per cent on the hundred. This is sufficient reason why the company has met with such success and is proof that its future success is assured. The present officers are as follows: President, W. T. Remlinger; secre- tary, George Altenburger; treasurer, Charles Rekart; directors, John H. Wannemacher, Joseph Miehls, William Schlagbaum, William Stretker and D. F. Miller. PEOPLES BANK, COLUMBUS GROVE. The Peoples Bank was organized in 1892 by G. W. Core, with Chris- tian Basinger, L. J. Lemley, Lewis Lemley and David Core as partners, Christian Basinger being president ; L. J. Lemley, vice-president, and G. W. Core, cashier. Later David Core retired from the partnership and the bank was operated as a private bank until 1906, when a charter was taken out under state law, with an authorized capital of sixty thousand dollars. In 1909 a branch bank was established at Vaughnsville. In 1914 Christian Basinger was succeeded as president by his son, William. G. AV Core, cashier, is the active manager of the bank. CHAPTER XL SECRET SOCIETIES, FRATERNITIES AND CLUBS. FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS. Ottawa Lodge No. 325, Free and Accepted Masons, was chartered on October 16, i860, at Ottawa, Ohio. Its charter members were John P. Simons, Ehas Farabee, L. Swazey, C. Ewing, C. M. Godfrey, J. L. Olney, George Morehead, C. J. Mann, A. Budd, William Lowry, William Robinson, Isaac Allen, Jacob Lentzy, Nutter Powell, T. E. Paul, J. S. Conine, H. V. Watts and George Springer. J. L. Olney is the only charter member now living. The following members have served the lodge as past masters : C. M. Godfrey, H. V. Watts, L. W: Moe, C. J. Swan, J. L'H. Long, N. E. Mat- thews, H. M. Summers, J. W. Brown, J. J. Zeller,^ C. E. Row, A. L. Paul, W. H. Loy, E. R. Eastman, A. P Sandles, S. F. DeEord, J. W. Smith, Her- man Wise, P. P. Sherwood and E. M. Ackerman. The membership at present numbers one hundred and thirty-six. The officers are: W. R. Deck, worshipful master; L. E. Eastman, senior war- den; Ralph U. Hall, junior warden; Herman Wise, treasurer, and A. Gra- ham, secretary. ROYAL ARCH MASONS. Ottawa Chapter No. 115, Royal Arch Masons, was chartered on Octo- ber 16, 1869, with the following charter members: J. L'H. Long, L. W. Moe, Elias W. Green, Charles Schimpff, C. M. Godfrey, W. F. Reed, C. J. Swan, D. N. McCullough, A. J. Taylor, J. B. Sprague, Alexander Slem- mons, Jacob Werner and Anderson Reeder. The high priests who have served the chapter up to the present time are : J. L'H. Long, C. J. Swan, T. D. Campbell, C. E. Row, Joseph Justice, A. L. Paul, F. M. Ackerman, N. E. Matthews, W. H. Loy, C. H. Rice, S. F. De- Ford, G. E. Jones, J. W. Smkh, A. M. Heidlebaugh, E. V. Burns and C. W. Fogle. The present membership numbers one hundred and eighty-seven. The PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 213 present officers are : Charles C. Cass, high priest ; J. W. Brown, king ; Her- man McDougle, scribe; Herman Wise, treasurer; A. Graham, secretary. ROYAL AND SELECT MASTERS. Putnam Council No. 69, Royal and Select Masters, was chartered on March 13, 1879, with the following charter members: J. L'H. Long, H. N. Gessells, N. E. Matthews, G. D. Kinder, L. W. Moe, W. F. Reed, A. Reeder, J. B. Sprague and H. C. Sherrard. The following have served the council as thrice illustrious master: J. L'H. Long, N. E. Matthews, A. L. Paul, E. L. Frey, Joseph Justice, F. M. Ackerman, W. H. Loy, S. F. DeFord, W. S. Zeller, J. W. Brown, W. H. Handy, J. W. Smith and E. R. Eastman. The present officers are Herman McDougle, thrice illustrious master; E. V. Burns, deputy master; Charles C. Cass, principal conductor of work; Herman Wise, treasurer, and A. Graham, recorder. The membership num- bers one hundred and sixty-five. MASONS AT COLUMBUS GROVE. Rufus Putnam Lodge No. 364, Free and Accepted Masons, at Columbus Grove, was chartered on May 26, 1866. The following were charter mem- bers : E. W. Greene, John Sheets, Allen Edmonds, S. Sanders, A. Reeder, W. L. Hartly, J. B. Sprague, H. H. Gessell, William Onem and J. B. Fru- chey. Of these ten charter members, only two survive, H. H. Gessell and Allen Edmunds. Orren Curtis bears the distinction of being the first wor- , shipful master. The membership at present numbers one hundred and thir- ty-two. INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS. April 25, 1907, was the eighty-eighth anniversary of Odd Fellowship. On April 25, 1819, five men met in Baltimore, Maryland, and organized what now numbers a membership of over a million people. This lodge was named the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and one hundred thousand members of the order are now connected with the lodges in Ohio alone. Blanchard Lodge is the oldest lodge in Putnam county, having been in- stituted on June 2, 1855. Up to the annual meeting of the grand lodge, in May, 1906, this lodge had initiated two hundred and fifty-three members, and over four thousand five hundred dollars had been paid to members as 214 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. sick benefits, two hundred and forty-five dollars and fifty-five cents devoted to the relief of widows and orphans and eight hundred and fifty-one dollars and twenty-seven cents expended for charity. The lodge now has a member- ship of seventy-five and eight other lodges have been organized in the county since Blanchard Lodge was first organized. In July, 1864, the lodge pur- chased the lot upon which its temple now stands, and the elegant structure was erected a few years ago. GILBOA LODGE. Gilboa Lodge No. 459, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was char- tered on August 8, 1870. The names of the charter members cannot be given, as the lodge room was destroyed by fire on August 8, 1875, and all the records were destroyed. A new charter was granted on December 23, 1876. The membership numbered seventy-two on January i, 1915, of which number forty-four were past grands. The amount paid out for sick benefits in the last eighteen years has av- eraged only one hundred dollars per year, or one thousand eight hundred in all. The amount paid for charity and special relief in the same time has amounted to eight hundred and fifty-eight dollars. The present officers are Sherman Ketner, noble grand; P. W. Davis, vice-grand; W. H. Tobias, recording secretary; L. G. Phillips, financial sec- retary; J. G. Knepper, treasurer; Isaac Bracy, H. Harris and M. P. Oren- baugh, trustees. LEIPSIC LODGE. Leipsic Lodge No. 536, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was insti- tuted on May 15, 1872, with ten charter members. Two of the charter mem- bers are still living, Martin Bowman and L. H. Casteel. This lodge has paid out five thousand dollars for sick benefits. The present membership is sixty. Leipsic Encampment, Patriarchs Militant, was chartered August 9, 1877, with sixteen charter members. DUPONT LODGE. Dupont Lodge was instituted at Dupont, on November 11, 1882, with the following charter members: C. R. Bram, S. M. Reed, W. R. Castle, Alonzo Pitcher, John Dray, W. L. Wollam, Austin Combs, Samuel Stuckey, S. Barnard, J. Wagner, G. W. Stuckey, Philip Kessler and David Jenkins. Samuel Stuckey served as the first noble grand. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 215 The present building was erected in 1900, at a cost of two thousand dol- lars. This building has furnished the members with spacious lodge rooms in which to conduct their meetings. The following are serving the lodge as •officers at the present time : W. E. Cullen, Frank Reynolds, W. H. Thomas. C. C. Etter, John Meyers, A. B. Etter, Alonzo Pitcher and W. T. Etter. The present membership numbers forty-seven. The sick benefits as provided by this lodge are three dollars per week. TOWNWOOD LODGE. Townwood Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was instituted in December, 1902. The names of the charter members are as follows: W. F. Coakly, Jay Ott, John Coakly, John Bolix, Vinton McAter, R. A. Davenport, George Clemence, George Mulford, Cyrus Payne, B. B. Brundy, F. Gunther, James Robinson, J. B. Fisher, Winnie Wilson, William Wilson, A. D. Reynolds and J. C. Vanhead. J. B. Fisher and J. C. Vanhead served the lodge first in the capacity of noble grand. The chief officers who are now serving the lodge are L. M. Walker and John Trott. The present beautiful and commodious building was erected in Decem- ber, 1902, at a cost of one thousand five hundred dollars, and has accommo- dated the members since the institution of the lodge. The present member- ship numbers fifty-five. COLUMBUS GROVE LODGE. Columbus Grove Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was insti- tuted in 1870, with the following charter members : Henry Hemuck, E. G. Ford, W. Breckbill, J. D. Genett, Jacob Sheets, William Chase, John Keller, Frederick Doriat and A. T. Ransom. The present membership numbers eighty-six. The amount paid out for sick benefits up to date is one hundred and twenty-five dollars and twenty-five cents. INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS. Blanchard Lodge No. 284, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was chartered on June 2, 1855, with the following charter members: John Dixon, Lorenzo Parker, David I. Brown, John Monroe, Henry Niles, John B. Fruchey and Jacob Bressler. Jacob Bressler was the first noble grand. On February 22, 1901, a building committee was appointed to draw plans for the erection of a lodge building. Samuel Cartwright, C. H. Rice 2l6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. and W. S. Hipkins were chosen to carry out this work. On March i of the same year work was begun on the building. On December 30, 1901, permis- sion was received from the grand master of the grand lodge to move the records to the new home. C. O. Periman bears the distinction of being the- first man initiated in the new rooms, February 14, 1902. The membership of the lodge has increased until at the present time it includes eighty-four active members. The present officers are S. O. Kerr,, noble grand; W. E. Smith, vice-grand; D. R. Jenkins, Jr., treasurer; G. M. Cartwright, secretary. KNIGHTS OF THE MACCABEES. Ottawa Chapter No. 160, Knights of the Maccabees, was chartered on August I, 1893, with sixteen charter members. This was the only chapter of Knights of the Maccabees ever installed in this county. This chapter has- never been very active in its work and saw the greatest years of its pros- perity while still young. At present this lodge has only five members. NATIONAL UNION. Sheridan Council No. 126, of the National Union, was organized in Ottawa, in August, 1888. There were thirty charter members. The mem- bership reached forty-two at one time, but lapses, removals and deaths have reduced the live membership until at the present time it consists of only six- teen persons. The National Union has paid every death claim in full, with- out one cent of cost to the beneficiary. It is one of the best and cheapest fraternal insurance companies in existence today. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. Ottawa Council No. 1757, Knights of Columbus, was organized in Ot- tawa, in June, 1914, with sixty-five charter members. At present the mem- bership numbers one hundred and seven. The officers are as follow : Jos- eph Kersting, grand knight; H. Edward Heckford, financial secretary. The purpose of this order is purely social and for insurance. CATHOLIC KNIGHTS OF OHIO. SS. Peter and Paul Branch No. 42, Catholic Knights of Ohio, was or- ganized on June 12, 1893, at Ottawa, Ohio. There were twenty charter PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 217" members. The membership at present is approximately one hmidred. It is purely an insurance order. There are branches of this order in the following towns of Putnam county : Glandorf , Leipsic, Ft. Jennings, Miller City, Ottoville, Kalida, New- Cleveland and Cloverdale. THE RESEARCH CLUB. The Research Club was founded in 1910 with the following charter members : Mrs. J. O. Cartwright, Mrs. George Jenkins, Mrs. Charles Mills, Mrs. C. B. Van Clue, Mrs. G. H. Williams, Mrs. P. D. Ward, Mrs. Frank Wilson, Mrs. G. F. Zeller, Miss Florence McClure, Miss Violet Sackett, Miss. Grace Ward and Miss Lulu Walkup. Miss Florence McClure, president; Mrs. J. O. Cartwright, vice-president; Mrs. George Jenkins, secretary, and Miss Violet Sackett, treasurer, served as the first officers of the club. The purpose of this club was to promote interest in the welfare of the community in which its members lived ; to study and discuss the important- questions of the day, and to familiarize themselves not only with our own country, but also the leading countries and islands in the Old World. The club has already studied rather thoroughly all the countries of the Old World and has taken up many of the greatest things of the United States. The work laid out for last year was "The World's Islands." For 191 5-16, "The- World's Islands," continued, and miscellaneous work. The present members are Mrs. J. O. Cartwright, Mrs. Flora Frick, Mrs, C. L. Miller, Mrs. C. J. Moore, Mrs. D. N. Powell, Mrs. H. M. Summers,. Mrs. G. H. Williams, Mrs. P. D. Ward, Mrs. Frank Wilson, Mrs. G. F. Zeller, Miss May Handy, Miss Florence McClure, Miss Grace Ward and Miss Sadie Wilkins. President, Mrs. H. M. Summers; vice-president, Mrs. D. N. PoweU; secretary, Mrs. J. O. Cartwright; treasurer, Mrs. G. H. Wil- liams. KAPPA PHI DELTA. The Kappa Phi Delta Club, at Ottawa, was organized in February, 1910,. with nine charter members, as follows : Effie L. Arnold, Alta M. Thrapp, Ruth C. Frey, Bessie I. Seitz, Iva A. Gillis, Zelma McDowell, May Handy, Mrs. Belle D. Miller and Mrs. Carrie W. Bell. The first- officers included the following: Effie L. Arnold, president; Alta M. Thrapp, vice-president; Ruth C. Frey, secretary; Bessie I. Seitz, treasurer. The purpose of the club is set -^iS PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. forth in its motto: "Working, not wishing; doing, not dreaming; boosting, not knocking." The present membership includes twelve young ladies of Ottawa: Effie L. Arnold, Alta M. Thrapp, Ruth C. Frey, Zelma McDowell, May Handy, Evelyn Wilson, Mary Wilkins, Arey Claypool, Bertha McDugal, Lucy Ag- ner, Mrs. Carrie Bell and Mrs. Leona Kerr. The officers for 1915 are as follows: Alta M. Thrapp, president; Zelma McDowell, vice-president; Mary Wilkins, secretary; Bessie I. Seitz, treasurer. The club is a member of the ■Ottawa federation of clubs. PUTNAM CLUB. The Putnam Club Company was chartered as an incorporation under the laws of the state of Ohio on April 4, 1904. The founders were Even R. Davis, M. P. Goetschins, A. R. Robenalt, F. G. Kahle and E. L. Frey. The purpose of this club was not for material gain, but it was organized for literary and social culture and mental improvement. The citizens of Ot- tawa had no place to assemble for sociable gatherings and the founders took this means of providing a suitable place. This club was capitalized at one thousand dollars, which was divided into forty shares and sold at twenty-five dollars a share, the proceeds of which were used for maintaining club rooms for members of the corpora- tion and their guests and purchasing fixtures. The club rooms are fitted up with every convenience for the literary and social development of its mem- bers. This club has had a steady increase in membership, which speaks well for the foresight of its founders, and at present totals sixty-six. The of- ficers are: J. S. Ogin, president; N. E. Matthews, treasurer; J. W. Brown, secretary. CATHOLIC LADIES OF COLUMBIA. St. Anne's Council No. 7, Catholic Ladies of Columbia, was chartered on June 4, 1897, with the following charter members: Philomena Lehm- kuhle. Lucinda M. Brinkle, Elizabeth Kraft, Mary A. Schmitschulte, Eliza- beth C. Leopold, Catherine Brinkman, Mary Catherine Hansel, Sarah Mc- Greevy, Mary Clohosey, Catherine Amelia Kracht and Elizabeth M. Schmit- schulte. The present membership numbers forty-two and fifteen additional applications were presented at the monthly meeting held on the second Tues- i,i)ii:i;s- ^joxr.MEXT. coLr.Aii'.rs (;i;()\-i-:. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 261 tinental was formerly at North Creek, but on account of so many of its mem- bers living in or near to Continental, the post was transferred to that place. soldiers' monument at COLUMBUS GROVE. A beautiful soldiers' monument was dedicated at Columbus Grove on May 20, 191 5, and, despite the inclement weather, the occasion was the means of bringing a large crowd to the town. The Altsteatter, Delphos and Shannon bands furnished excehent music during the day, while Comrade Keirn's drum corps helped to stir up the enthusiasm of the rain-stricken crowd. There was an imposing parade, which wound up in the large tent of the Shannon Show Company, which was showing in the town that week. Mayor Poast made an appropriate welcoming, address and was followed by Cyrus E. Locher, of Cleveland, who spoke on "The Boys in Blue." M. D. Long gave such a stirring talk that the people generously gave about five hundred dollars which went towards paying for the monument. The final address was made by Gen. J. Kent Hamilton, commander of the Grand Army of the Republic of Ohio, who closed an eloquent speech with the formal unveiling of the monument. The monument, which was made possible through the untiring efforts of the Civic League of Columbus Grove, has a total height of sixteen feet and ten inches. It is cut from gray granite and makes a truly imposing appearance. The base and pedestal have a total height of ten feet and four inches, the whole being surmounted by the standing statue of an infantryman, six feet and a half in height. The monument stands at one end of the town park, while at the other end of the park is located a beautiful new granite drinking fountain. SOLDIERS OF THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR. We have a record of but two soldiers of the Revolutionary War who are buried in Putnam county. One of these, Israel Hubbard, is buried in the old graveyard on the Mallahan farm in Riley township, while the other, William Jack, is buried on what is known as the Pearman farm, in Ottawa township. SOLDIERS OF THE WAR OF l8l2. Among those who served in the War of 1812 and who came to this county in 1834-35, we have a record of the following: Frederick Eck, Matthew Chambers, Nathaniel McClure, Andrew McCIure and William Galbreath, all of whom died many years ago. CHAPTER XVI. SIDELIGHTS ON PUTNAM COUNTY HISTORY. BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL INTERESTS OF PUTNAM COUNTY IN 1 8/0. The following list of business and professional interests in Putnam county is taken from Dun's Report of 1870 and may prove interesting even after the lapse of forty-five years: BELMORE. William E. Caddy, physician; Doctor Drain, physician; G. W. Ed- wards, general store; H. Ensminger, general store; John Gibble, boots and shoes; C. Green, wagon maker; William Knoke, mill, etc.; V. L. Ovenchain, dry goods and groceries; John Pennel, hotel; Speaker Brothers, general store; A. R. Van Doran, drugs, groceries, etc. COLUMBUS GROVE. William Breckbill, stoves and tinware; Charles Busche, grocery; A W Chase, grocery and bakery; Thomas N. Day, general store; A. H ' Day & Bro., general store; C. H. Day & Co., grain; A. Edmonds, wagon maker- Edwards & Ward, bricklayers; Elkell & Bro., saw-mill; John Greek gro- cery; Fred Hannert, shoes; E. A. Hartley, hardware; E. Henderson & Co stave factory; David Jones, saddler; Jacob Kohli, wagon maker; McHenry & Gessells, produce; Simon Maple, dry goods, etc.; I. W. Martin, flour-mill- Martm & Son, general store; Joseph Oglevie, carpenter; A. Oglevie steam mill; Henry Oglevie, saw-mill; Mrs. E. Palmer, milliner; Anderson Reeder saw-mill; Jacob Risser, grocery; John Rollands, saddler; Alexander Slem- mons, blacksmith; J. O. Smith, cooper; J. B. Sprague, drugs and groceries; Samuel Stirlen, furniture; Joseph Tingle, merchant tailor; Simon Turner physician; John D. Viers, cabinet maker; Ward & Arnold, groceries. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 263 FT. JENNINGS. Louis Boehmer, mills ; Funk, silversmith ; F. H. Klakamp, grocery and tavern ; Christian Raabe, dry goods and groceries ; William Recker, grocery GILBOA. Stellman Blodgett, cabinet maker; Jacob Bressler & Co., general store; Pressley Coron, lumber, stock; John Cunningham, miller; W. H. Fisher, groceries and drugs; James Fuld, shoes; J. S. Hill, drugs; G. Kisabeth, shoes ; A. D. McClure, dry goods, etc. ; W. McClure, tavern. GLANDORF. Altekruse & Son, general store; Joseph Baker, shoes; Frank Brinkman, wagons; John G. Buckhold, hotel; J. W. Ellerbrock & Co., woolen factory; Henry Evers, shoemaker; Anthony Fox, shoemaker; Joseph Gerding, sad- dler; Ferd Gerding, harness; Henry Guelker, shoes; William Helker, gro- ■ eery; F. W. Hoffman, general store; Hubert Huber, physicians; Hueve & Nartger, bricklayers; Henry Klassing, blacksmith; Kolhoff & Doepker, saw- mill; F. Landgraber, general store; George Loudenbach, tailor; Henry H. Meyers, shoemaker; Moenke & Co., flouring-mill ; William Rampe, shoe- maker; Mrs. E. Ricknier, grocery; John Schmenck, grocery; Henry Shafer, blacksmith; M. Shoemaker, tailor; Blasius Street, furniture; Nicholas Thom, wagons; Henry Wortcutter, tailor. KALIDA. S. D. Ayers, grocery; Wilton H. Grain, wagons; Lee & Bro., drugs and dry goods; S. Metheney & Co., general store; John Overbeck, cabinet maker; L. L. Parker, dry goods; John T. Thrift, physician. LEIPSIC. A. Ball, shoemaker; Frank Eastman, mill; R. Edgecomb, dry goods and groceries; S. S. Emery, physician; Joseph Faber, carriage; Folk & Son, clothing and grain; Hammet & Alt, general store; Daniel Leffler, grocery; Charles Mann, hotel; Jo,seph Opdyke, saw-mill; J. D. Timmerman, drugs; Jacob Werner, lumber; V. Winkler, shoemaker; A. J. Young, groceries and drugs; Solomon Young, drugs and dry goods. 264 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. VAUGHNSVILLE. Peter Breeling, hotel and grocery; T. Henderson, dry goods and gro- ceries. OTTAWA. H. F. Beach, wagon maker; C. E. Beardsley, physician; John Beck, dry goods, etc.; R. J. Beeney, baker and grocery; J. S. Bowers, furniture; An- drew Brinkman, blacksmith; Sarah Buahler, milliner; Burkmier & Gosling, saddlers; C. M. Carson, hotel; Carnahan & Ault, builders; Mrs. M. Cover' milliner; M. C. & J. P. Ewing, produce; Foltz & Taylor, marble; John Fipp,' groceries; Samuel F. Foltz, livery; Freese & Raff, dry goods; Joseph Ger- dmg, harness; F. S. Godfrey, baker and grocery; N. Goetchius, foundry- Mrs. J. Goldsmith, grocery; N. M. Haviland, groceries and provisions; J. S. Hale, furniture; A. J. Hamilton, tinner; Thomas H. B. Hipkins, groceries and produce; Thomas H. B. Hipkins & Sons, dry goods and groceries; Holtz, Goetchius & Co., manufacturers hubs, etc.; Kelly & Hauck, drugs ; George D. Kinder, printing; J. C. and H. F. Knowles, insurance; Laskey, ' Pratt & Campbell, stoves, etc.; Frank Lassance, clothing; Lentzy & Willoughby, merchant tailors; David Lowery, hardware; McBride & Humberger, steam mill; McCoy, Slauson & Co., dry goods and groceries; Miles & Son, builders; A. S. Miller, contractor; Misner & Brockman, boots and shoes; Lyman M.' Moe, physician; J. T. Moorehead, books, notions; Newman & Co., dry goods; Freeman F. Paul, physician; E. Pomeroy, groceries and notions; C. H. Rice & Co., bankers; Michael Row, hotel; Charles Schimpff, jeweler; William Schmitschulte, groceries; Mrs. F. Sargent, milliner; Samuel Shoup! drugs; John P. Simon, groceries and provisions; Slausson, Ewing & Cox, bankers; Slawson & Ewing, real estate dealers; J. R. Thompson, photo- grapher and picture; C. E. Tupper, physician; Lycurgus Willoughby, hotel. OTTOVILLE. Joseph C. Forrier, groceries and dry goods; Gerhart Otte, dry goods and groceries; Charles Wannemacher, shoemaker; Mathias Winkleman, dry goods and grocery. PENDLETON. Joe Keinie, dry goods and groceries; John Lacont, grocery; James Mc- Bride, tailor; J. C. Snyder, dry goods and groceries; Mark Thompson, gen- eral store. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 265. THE STORY OF JOHNNY APPLESEED. Who has not heard of Johnny Appleseed? He spent his hfe in the woods, wore cast-off clothes, tramped the year around in his bare feet, had httle or no money and died in comparative obscurity and yet did more to promote the raising of apples in the state of Ohio than any other man. The fruit he was responsible for raising would fill millions of bushel baskets. Johnny Appleseed for years wandered through Ohio planting apple seeds, collected at cider mills and carried in a little sack over his shoulder, in practically every cleared tract he could find. Often he would clear pieces of land in the heart of the wilderness and plant either sprouts or seeds. So well known did he become that people forgot his real name was John Chap- man and called him by his soubriquet. Johnny Appleseed was born in 1775, at Springfield, Massachusetts, the son of Nathaniel Chapman, and came with his half brother to Ohio in 1801. Soon afterward a desire to wander and develop apple orchards struck the young man and, abandoning civilization, he set forth. As early as 181 1 he had become known all over the state and before he left it to go west, where the ax of the pioneer was not heard, he was probably the best known man in the state. Few communities did not boast of orchards planted by his hands. He died in Allen county, Ohio, in the summer of 1847, aged seventy-two years, forty-six of which had been consecrated to his self- imposed mission. Johnny Appleseed was a man of many manias. He abhorred the ex- tinction of all forms of life. One time, when lying before his fire in the woods, he saw that gnats and mosquitoes were flying to their death in the flames. He promptly arose, extinguished the fire and permitted himself tO' be bitten all night by the pests. At another time he sought shelter from cold and snow in a hollow log, which he found occupied by a bear and her cubs. He quickly withdrew and laid in the snow and cold all night. At an- other time he accidentally killed a rattlesnake which had bitten him. He- blamed it on an ungodly passion. Johnny Appleseed was an apostle of Swedenborg, whose literature he distributed among the people he met. Once, when his supply had become exhausted, he tore his only remaining book in two and gave one part to each- of the two men with whom he was talking. He was twice jilted by young women whom he expected to marry. ^°" PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. JOHNNY APPLESEED VISITS THE RESERVATION. While the early settlers found a number of good-sized apple trees on the reservation when they first came here, no one of our pioneer citizens knew of Johnny's visits prior to the year 1833, when he came down the river in a canoe laden with young apple trees. It is stated that wherever he could find a white settler he would furnish him with trees without regard to the settler's ability or disposition to pay for the same. His last trip down the Blanchard was in the year 184 1. The history of this remarkable man and great philanthropist is so well known . throughout Ohio, especially in the northwest portion of the state, that it is not necessary to give it in detail here. Many years ago the writer of this history interviewed a large number of the pioneer citizens of the county in regard to events and incidents con- nected with its early history. Among those interviewed was Mr. Brower, who settled on the banks of the Blanchard river, in Greensburg township.' Among the incidents Mr. Brower related was one referring to Johnny Appleseed, who figured as a "tourist" in this part of the state from the close of the war of 1812 and for some twenty years after. The present generation is no doubt familiar with the eccentricities of this man and the life he led, therefore we well but briefly notice one of his visits to this ■county, at which time he paid a visit to Mr. Brower, who states that during the visit Johnny exhibited his usual characteristics or eccentricities of habits. While on this visit he brought with him a big supply of apple seeds, which were encased in pumice from cider-mills in western Pennsylvania, the source of his supply. Johnny made it a business to plant these seeds on ■every available spot along the Blanchard river and in a few years afterward the early pioneers gathered many apples from the trees grown from the seed planted by Johnny, and a number of the trees bore fruit for many years after the organization of the county. When he planted the seed he usually put some brush around the spot to protect the young trees, yet as the ■county was^ cleared up and brush burned, many of the young trees were destroyed. EARLY TAVERNS. Prior to 1850 there were many taverns in Putnam county, and places for the entertainment of man and beast were located about every three miles along the roads generally traveled in those days. In every small vil- lage two or more taverns existed. In Gilboa, in 1847-1850, taverns were PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 267 kept by Matthias Chambers, Wilham McClure, William Hipkins and Christ- tan Hensy, while in Kalida taverns were kept by Arthur E. Martin, William Phillips, James H. Vail, T. R. McClure and Mr. Foss. It was a common •custom then to have bars, where liquor was sold at the modest sum of five cents per drink. Then there was only a state tax of five dollars a year for the privilege of dispensing strong drinks-, no revenue or county tax being re- quired. Beer and ale were not then a common beverage. AN EARLY DISTILLERY. There was one distillery of whisky in the county. It was known as Ash distillery, located in Jennings township, near the canal. It is common report that often, when government revenue officers were expected to call, weights would be put on barrels of liquor which were sunk in the canal, until after Uncle Sam's men had gone. A few years ago a barrel was found in the canal, after being there many years. It is supposed that this one was overlooked and forgotten by the owners. Of course canal whisky is always good. COUNTY EXPENSES IN 1849. The county commissioners' report for the year ending June 4, 1849, certifies that the amount paid prosecuting attorney, for one year's salary, was $108.33; P^^d clerk of courts, yearly allowance, $43.33; paid for sta- tionery, during year, $49.50; paid for postage by the county for all officials, $2.83; paid for wolf scalps, $39; auditor's salary, $499; treasurer's salary, $489.38. In the year 1849, the three county commissioners received sixty dollars for per diem allowances. These items show how expenses have increased in sixty-six years. KALIDA MARKET, MARCH, 1 847. As published in the Venture at that time: For purposes of comparison, the following market quotations are re- produced from the Kalida Venture of March, 1847: Wheat, per bushel, 75 cents; corn, per bushel, 25 cents; oats, per bushel, 15 cents; clover seed, per bushel, $3.00; timothy seed, per bushel, $1.00; flax seed, per bushel, 62 cents; beans, per bushel, 75 cents; potatoes, per bushel, 25 cents; pork, pickled, per pound, 4 cents; beef, fresh, per pound, 4 cents; butter, per pound, 9 cents ; lard, per pound, 6 cents ; ham, per pound, 6 cents ; tallow, per pound, ID cents; maple sugar, per pound, 10 cents; eggs, per dozen, 5 cents. ^°° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. CHOLERA AT GILBOA IN 1852. In 1852, during the epidemic of cholera, Gilboa was the worst afflicted illage in the county. It had nineteen cases of the dread disease, from which fourteen deaths occurred, only five persons who had the disease recover- ing. A great many of the people fled from the village, and only two doctors- remained to administer to the afflicted. One of these two was Dr. T. E. Paul and the other Doctor Thatcher, a Hungarian by birth, who died with the dis- ease at the time. VI EARLY LIQUOR VIOLATIONS. The contention now in regard to the liquor question is not a new thing,, or "boot-legging" a hew species of crime under the laws of this state. Eighty- one years ago (1834), at the first term of court ever held in this county, the first grand jury convened brought in six indictments, four of which were "for selling spirits without a license." The first criminal case in the first court was for this offense, and the dispenser of the spirits was fined twenty-five dollars and costs. In those days a license to traffic in liquor was required and the amount of the license was five dollars. Upon the adop- tion of the new Constitution in 1851-52 the license law became obsolete and a penalty was prescribed for the sale of liquor and everyone selling it laid himself liable to a fine. This condition existed up to the time of the enact- ment of the law requiring dealers to pay a tax. Up to this latter date nearly every grand jury indicted from one to a dozen saloon keepers. They were each fined about twenty-five dollars and costs for each offense, which was- paid and the dealer proceeded in the business until the next court convened,, when in many instances he was again indicted and paid his fine. In some cases, a term in the county jail was added to the fine. AN EARLY POSTMASTER OF GILBOA. In looking over some old documents in our possession we came across- the followmg letter, written by the second assistant postmaster-general to Hon. William Sawyer, notifying Mr. Sawyer of the appointment of Stans- berry Sutton as postmaster at Gilboa, this county, with Mr. Sawyer's letter to Mr. Sutton informing him of his appointment : PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 269 "Postoffice Department, "Appointment Office, Dec. loth, 1845. "Sir — I have the honor to inform you that the postmaster-general has appointed Stansberry Sutton postmaster at Gilboa, in the state of Ohio, in place of J. E. Creighton, resigned. I am respectfully your obedient servant, "W. I. Brown. "Second Assistant Postmaster-General. "To the Honorable William Sawyer, House of Representatives." Mr. Sawyer notifies Mr. Sutton as follows, written at the bottom oi the same page as the foregoing: "Dear Sir — Your appointment as p. m. at Gilboa is sent to you. The above is a notification of the fact to me. "With respects, yours, "William Sawyer." There are very few of our older citizens who do not remember Stans- berry Sutton, one of the most highly respected and prominent citizens of Gilboa and Ottawa for many years, and who died in Ottawa in the year 1879, after a long and useful life. a kalida rat-trap. In 1852 a resident of Kalida invented a rat trap which is duly mentioned in the Venture at that time : "The trap consisted of a hollow stick, about seven feet long, closed at one end, and after putting some grain and litter in it he set the trap in his hay mow and covered it with hay. The next morn- ing he plugged the hole in the trap, and carried it out and killed the rats." The inventor claimed that the trap was a great success. THE WOLF SCALP INDUSTRY. During the early history of Putnam county, many wolves infested the county as well as the other counties in this part of the state. At that time the state paid a bounty for the scalps of wolves, and the early pioneers were industrious in hunting them. The money they received for the scalps was certainly a blessing to them in those days, as money was very scarce and what was received from this source paid taxes and afforded now and then a better living in several respects. All scalps had to be presented to the 27° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. clerk of the court, who issuecl an order on the county treasurer for the amount. The order called for four dollars and twenty-five cents for each scalp. Persons presenting scalps had to swear that they killed the wolves.. The following is a sample of the affidavits required to be made : "You, George Sweiger, do solemnly swear that the scalps now produced by you are the scalps of wolves taken by you within the county of Putnam, within twenty days last past, and verily believe the same to have been under the age of six months, and that you have not spared the life of any she wolf within your power to kill, with a view to increase the breed. "George Sweiger. "Sworn to and subscribed before me this 20th day of May, A. D. 1834. "Daniel W. Gray, Clerk pro tem." The above certificate was numbered 11, and is the earliest certificate we find on file. The George Sweiger above mentioned was quite a success as a wolf hunter, as he presented many of the scalps of wolves killed at various times. During the period from 1834 to 1836, many wolves were killed in this county, and about a hundred were killed during the year 1834. Many per- sons killed only a single wolf, while others seemed to make it a business. Among those drawing the most money during the year 1834, for wolf scalps, were the following: George Sweiger, $60; William Kenny, $42.75; John Woods, $26.75; Andrew Clawson, $20; John Elder, $21.25; John Mc- Gill, $15; Joseph Nichols, $15; Leonard Sweiger, $12.50; John Neill, $9,25, and George Blessing, $7.50. The last wolf known to be bred in this county was killed by a hunter, near Belmore, many years ago. Miles Crow, many years ago a resident of Greensburg township, was a great hunter and was possibly the last man in the county to trap or kill wolves. He was successful in killing more wolves than any other man, after the year 1840. An incident is related of one of Ottawa's first settlers wherein about every male citizen of that time became very much excited. In March of 1835, a man who lived at the river bank -on the west side of what is now known as Walnut .street, had a barn yard where now is located the old wheel works. He had in the yard a flock of sheep. The snow had been deep on the ground for nearly a month. A pack of wolves came across the river and made a raid on the sheep. About every man in the village turned out to fight the wolves. In the fight two valuable dogs were killed by the wolves. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 27I while but a few of the wolves were captured. The owner of the dogs greatly regretted their loss, as in that day a good hunting dog was valued at a greater price than an entire flock of sheep. In waterworks park, in Ottawa, may now be seen one of the traps used for capturing wolves in the early history of the county. THE FIRST SCHOOL ON THE RESERVATION. The first school taught on the Indian reservation was held in a part of a double log cabin owned by Christian Huber. This cabin was located on. the farm now owned by Mr. Miller, and situated immediately north of the. present waterworks plant. Miss Priscilla Compton taught the first school in the first school house in Ottawa, that being located immediately north of the residence for a time occupied by Thomas Carnahan. This school house was built of logs, the seats and desks were made of slabs, and the floor was. of puncheons. SELECTING POSTMASTERS IN 1845. It is not generally known that the people of the various towns of Put- nam county helped to select their postmasters seventy years ago. Such, however, appears to have been the case, if the report given in a local paper is to be believed. The following extract from the Kalida Venture tells its own story: "Postoffice Meeting. "In pursuance to notice heretofore given the Democratic citizens trans- acting their business through the Postoffice at Kalida met at the office of Ben Metcalf and proceeded to nominate a suitable person to be recommended to the Postmaster General to fill the vacancy in the Postoffice at Kalida to be occasioned by the resignation of M. M. Gillett the present incumbent : "Which resulted on the fifth ballotting, in the choice of Winchton Risley. "On motion the meeting adjourned without day, March 22nd, 1845. Stephen White, Chairman. Ben Metcalf, Secretary." IRON BRIDGES OF PUTNAM COUNTY. There seems to have been considerable discussion in the local newspa- pers concerning the first iron bridge in the county. From the best evi- dence obtainable it appears that it was built over the Blanchard at Cuba 272 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. in Greensburg township. The Auglaize and Blan chard rivers, with their many tributaries, have necessitated the building of a large number of ex- pensive bridges. There are no less than five bridges across the Blanchard at Ottawa, although the county built three of them, the others being erected by the steam and electric roads which come into the town. The county has built fourteen iron bridges over the Blanchard river and eight across the Auglaize; in addition, there are scores of bridges across the many tributaries of the two larger streams of the county. It is not too much to say that the spanning of the rivers and streams of Putnam county has cost nearly half a million dollars within the past half century. EARLY DEBATING SOCIETIES. In the early history of Putnam county, debates on public questions were one of the most popular features of entertainment, and debating societies were in vogue in every community where a school house existed. The Ka- Uda Venture of March 21, 1848, contains the following notice: "There will be a meeting of the Kalida Lyceum held on the evening of March 28. The question for debate will be 'Ought all laws for the collection of debts be repealed.' " A WONDERFUL RAIL FENCE. A short time ago, John F. Clevenger, of Columbus Grove, made an in- teresting discovery while tearing out an old rail fence. He found no less than thirty-two different kinds of timber represented in the old fence row and the enumeration of this varied assortment of timber throws an inter- esting light upon the character of the early forests of Putnam county. The complete list of trees which \vere represented in this wonderful rail fence is as follows: Buckeye, native poplar, Lombardy poplar, Carolina poplar, black locust, honey locust, black ash, white ash, burr oak, red oak, white oak, jack oak, beech, sugar, maple, sycamore,, pawpaw, dogwood, ironwood, linden, willow, cottonwood, black walnut, white walnut, shellbark hickory, smoothbark hickory, white and red elm. COLORED PEOPLE IN PUTNAM COUNTY. The colored man has never been a welcome resident in Putnam county and at the present time there are none living in the county. However, there PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 273 have been a few colored people here in the past and history records that at least one colored man, by the name of Mines, voted in Blanchard township. This particular son of Africa worked for William Guy. THE FIRST DEED RECORDED IN PUTNAM COUNTY^ 1 827. "United States to Henry Wing. "Certificate No. 427. The United States of America : "To All to Whom These Presents Shall Come Greeting : "Whereas Henry Wing, of Putnam County, Ohio, has deposited in the General Land Office of the United States a Certificate of the Register of The Land Office at Piqua, Ohio, whereby it appears that Full Payment has been made by the said Henry Wing according to the provisions of the Act of Congress of the 24th of April, 1820 entitled, 'An Act making further pro- visions for the sale of the Public Lands for The North fraction of the North half of Section fourteen, in township one North of Range six east in the district of lands offered for sale at Piqua, Ohio, containing twenty-one acres and thirty-hundredths of an acre, according to the office plat of the survey of the said lands returned to the land office by the Surveyor General,' which said tract has been purchased by the said Henry Wing. "Now, Know Ye That the United States of America, in consideration of the promises and in conformity with the several acts of Congress in such case made and provided. Have Given and Granted, and by these presents Do Give and Grant unto the said Henry Wing and his heirs the said tract described; To have and to Hold the same, together with all the rights and privileges immunities and appertinances, of whatsoever nature Thereunto belonging, unto the said Henry Wing and to his heirs and assigns forever. "In Testimony Whereof I, John Quincy Adams, President of the United States of America, have caused These letters to be made Patent and the Seal of the General Land Office to be hereunto affixed. • "Given under ray hand, at the City of Washington, The thirteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty- seven and of the Independence of the United States the fifty-first. "By the President, J. Q. A. "G. G. Commissioner of the General Land Office. "Recorded Vol. 60, page 421, Ohio Vol." 18 ^74 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. SALOONS OF PUTNAM COUNTY. When the present Hquor law went into effect in the fall of 19 13, there were thirty-two saloons in Putnam county. Since the number is now re- stricted to one for every thousand inhabitants, there are only nineteen saloons. They are distributed as follows : Five in Ottawa, two in Continental and one each in the towns of Ottoville, Ft. Jennings, Cloverdale, Gilboa, Kalida, Glandorf, Miller City and West Leipsic. In addition, there is one saloon in Monterey township and one in Jennings township. These two saloons are really in the towns of Ottoville and Ft. Jennings, respectively, but the boards of both towns changed the corporation lines so that the saloons would legally be in the township. There is a saloon in Liberty township, just out- side of the corporate limits of Leipsic, and another in Pleasant township,, adjoining the corporation of Columbus Grove. Leipsic and Columbus are both "dry" as the result of local option elections. Saloon licenses are now granted by a county liquor licensing board appointed by the governor. The first appointees for Putnam county were Frank Gmeiner and Walter Stevenson, both of whom received their com- missions on April 6, 1913. Mr. Stevenson resigned on April i, 1915, his resignation takmg effect on the 15th of the same month. The members receive the nominal sum of twenty dollars a month for their services. When the law went into effect, in October, 191 3, there were thirty-two saloons in the county and fifty applications before the board for the nineteen saloons which was the limit allowed by the law. Each applicant must pay five dollars at the time of application, and, if granted, he must pay a county tax of one thousand dollars and a government tax of twenty-five dollars. A renewal or transfer costs sixty dollars. THE GREATEST FLOOD OF OTTAWA. In the latter part of March, 1913, Ottawa emerged from the greatest flood of Its history. No loss of life occurred. The hungry waters got no victims. The loss in dollars ran into hundreds of thousands. The town was swept by water many feet deep. Out of the darkness of Monday night March 24, 1913, came the rising, rushing, raging flood. Swift and sure it went high, then higher, then highest in the history of the town. Homes had to be deserted, and on Tuesday morning the town sent out a cry for help The quiet citizen saw the need of quick and daring action. As the night brings out the stars, so did the flood bring out the good there is in men No PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 275 one faltered. The man from the common walks of life became the real hero. Wind, water, cold and storm were laughed at by men who met the occasion and were equal to the task. All railways were paralyzed. Boats were lacking. Travel was at a standstill. But lightning flashed a message over the wires, and soon men, boats, food and help were on the way. From Leipsic, Columbus Grove, Lima, Toledo, St. Marys and other places relief came at double quick. That it did, was a blessing, for Ottawa was in dire distress and sore need. Out of the whole situation came a spirit of human- ity, heroism, and helpfulness that was almost sublime. Lives were risked to save other lives. Property was secondary and the welfare of human beings was the first concern. Farmers came with wagon loads of supplies of food and fuel. This kindly action was of their own motion. They did not wait to be asked to help. On this Sunday morning, Ottawa has the appearance of a flood-swept town. Wreckage, debris, washouts, and a hundred tokens showed the power of little drops of water when angry and united into torrents and currents. THE POLITICAL HISTORY OF PUTNAM COUNTY. When Putnam county was organized in 1834, the Democratic and Whig parties were just getting definitely separated. The twenty years preceding this time had seen only one party, the Democratic, and whatever differences existed politically were personal. Adams, Jackson and Clay ran for Presi- dent on the same ticket, their followers being known as Adams, Jackson or Clay men. - In the early thirties the old Democratic party, dominated by the hero of the battle of New Orleans, began to disintegrate and by 1832 it was evident that Jackson's control of the party was fast slipping away from him. Clay, his greatest opponent, was forging to the front as a leader and seriously dis- puting the old warrior's leadership. It was in the midst of this new align- ment of political parties that Putnam county came onto the scene of action, and both of the parties began to lay their plans to capture the township and county offices. The history of political control in Putnam county may be very briefly summed up. The Democrats have been in complete control ever since the county was organized with the exception of a brief period when the Repub- licans elected three county officials. In 1852-53 there was a big effort made by the Whigs to gain control and with the aid of the disgruntled Democrats, they camie very near succeeding. A secret organization, political in nature! 276 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. known as the Knownothings, came into existence at this time, which osten- sibly sought to confine all offices to native-born Americans. Several lodges were organized in Putnam county, the largest being in Gilboa, Blanchard township. To combat this organization, the Democrats organized an equal number of lodges under the name of the "Sag Nichts" or "Say Nothings." Both organizations used all the tricks of seasoned politicians, but the result terminated favorably to the Democrats in the succeeding election. The decade preceding the Civil War was one of great strife in political matters and scores of anti-slavery Democrats left the old party and allied themselves with the new Republican party. However, the supremacy of the Democrats was never seriously threatened, in Putnam county, although its majorities were cut down. From 1855 to the opening of the war, the tension in political affairs was often at the breaking point, and it took cool heads to keep matters from degenerating into open encounters at times. Following the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska act, the Whig party went out of existence and in the two following years the Democratic party lost hundreds of thou- sands of its leaders in the Northern states. In Ohio the new party at first styled itself the Union party, and later hyphenated itself into the Union- Republican party. Although many of the Democrats joined the new party, there was a corresponding shift from the old Whig party to the Democrats, the defection being due to the slavery question. The net result was that the Democrats were able to maintain their hold on political affairs in the county. While ante-bellum politics were in such a seething state, there were large political gatherings in every town and village of the county and enthusiasm often outran men's better judgment. The greatest gathering, however, oc- curred the second year after the close of the war. It was held in Ottawa, on September 19, 1867, and Hon. Clement L. Vallandigham was the orator of the day. The newspapers of the day said that there were twenty thousand people present and that the parade was two and a half miles in length. It consisted of decorated floats, wagons, horsemen, bands, etc., and must have been an imposing spectacle. Many big meetings have been held since then, but none to compare with this particular one in magnitude. Like other counties in the state of Ohio, Putnam has had its Prohibition, Socialist, Progressive, Independent and People's parties, yet they ha^•e been but as "side shows" traveling with the two great parties. As has been said, the Democrats have always been in power in the county, with the exception of a short time. At one time (in the early nineties) some Democratic officials became derelict in their duties and three of them were sent to the penitentiary. The people rose up in their might and elected a Republican county treasurer. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO; 277 prosecuting attorney and clerk for two years each and a county auditor for two terms of three years each. CELEBRATION OVER THE VICTORY OF DEWEY. The most enthusiastic celebration ever held in Ottawa followed the re- ceipt of the news of Dewey's bloodless victory at Manila bay, May i, 1898. The celebration occurred the night of May 2, and for hours bells were rung, whistles blown and general pandemonium reigned. Red-fire lighted up the main streets and a happy people gave vent to their heartfelt appreciation of Admiral Dewey and his splendid victory. FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION. The greatest Fourth of July celebration ever held in the county occurred m 1876. Ottawa and Columbus Grove both celebrated that year and each town tried to outdo the other and get the largest crowd. For weeks be- fore that day, both towns used every effort to advertise their attractions and a number of unusual features were promised by .the committees who had charge of affairs in the respective towns. As might be expected, Ottawa had the largest crowd, although Columbus Grove was not far behind in point of attendance. The crowd at Ottawa was estimated at from twelve to fifteen thousand people, and such another celebration was never held be- fore or since. More noise was made, more popcorn consumed, more lemonade drunk and more powder burned on that day than any other in the history of the town. POPULATION STATISTICS. I9IO Blanchard township, including Gilboa village 1,605 Gilboa village o^c Greensburg township 1,078 Jackson township 1,1 1^ Jennings township, including Fort Jennings vil- lage J 529 Fort Jenni'rigs village 0-36 Liberty township, including West Leipsic village 1,608 West Leipsic village 2Kt, Monroe township, including Continental village__ 2,439 1900 1890 1,77s 1,688 346 264 1,211 1,095 1,308, 1.235 1,787 1.741 322 286 2.775 2,697 346 502 2.775 2,697 278 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. I9IO 1900 ll Continental village .— 1,074 1,104 §95 Monterey township, including Ottoville village 1,652 1,711 1,507 Ottoville village 477 369 Ottawa township, including Glandorf and Ottawa villages 3,805 4,207 3,381 Glandorf village 558 749 57i Ottawa village 2,182 2,322 1,717 Palmer township, including Miller City village 1,612 1,990 1,864 Miller City village 218 163 Perry township, including Cloverdale and Dupont village 1,581 1,736 1,710 Cloverdale village 222 Dupont village 334 27° 53^ Pleasant township, including Columbus Grove vil- lage 3,194 3,401 3,286 Columbus Grove village 1,802 i,935 1,677 Riley township, including Pandora village i,975 1,831 1,566 Pandora village 562 409 Sugar Creek township 1,337 1,416 1,429 Union township, including Kalida village 1,810 1,619 1,482 Kalida village 770 622 444 Van Buren township, including Belmore and Leipsic villages 3-534 3,687 3,444 Belmore village 298 334 414 Leipsic village i,773 1.726 1,353 Total 29,972 32,525 30,188 The population of Putnam county for the decades prior to 1890 was as follows: 1830, 230; 1840, 5,189; 1850, 7,221; i860, 12,808; 1870, 17,081; 1880, 23,713. HIGHWAY STATISTICS. The following high\yay statistics are taken from the last annual report of James R. Marker, state highway commissioner of Ohio, issued on March 15, 191 5. The first table exhibits the mileage and type of roads in the county outside of the municipalities. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 279 Total Inter-Co. Miles Imp. Roads Roads on Roads January March January Imp. by ■Type of Road. Concrete Macadam Gravel Earth Total - , 1915- 15, 1915- II, I9I5. State. 0.61 6.08 467 498 IOI.4 no 90 15.8 590 II. I 1,167 128.3 6.69 The statement of road and bridge expenditures for the four years ( 1910- 19 13) discloses the fact that the county has spent nearly three hundred and fifty thousand dollars in that short time on roads and bridges. The figures for 1913 include all expenditures up to and including August 31, 19 14, paid out by the county commissioners and township trustees, exclusive of the money expended by the state. 1910 1911 1912 1913 Road repairs $ 25,956 $20,058 $ 388 $ 2,387 Road construction 82,379 50.304 17,127 93,277 Bridge and culvert repairs 1,531 1,788 4,202 2,925 -Bridge & Culvert construc'n 6,216 3,536 5,849 14,205 Total $116,082 $75,686 $27,566 $112,794 ? -'y^i.-^-iV;;^^ ^- B,-^ ^i-": BIOGRAPHICAL JOHN EDWARDS. In the golden sayings of Epictetus there is no nobler utterance than this - "What wouldst thou be found doing when overtaken by Death? If I might, choose, I would be found doing some deed of true humanity, of wide import, beneficent and noble. But if I may not be found engaged in j^ught so lofty, let me hope at least for this — what none may hinder, what is surely in my power-^that I may be found raising up in myself that which had fallen;, learning to deal more wisely with the things of sense; working out my own tranquillity, and thus rendering that which is due to every relation of life. "If death surprise me thus employed, it is enough if I can stretch forth, my hands to God and say, 'The faculties which I received at Thy hands for apprehending this Thine administration, I have not neglected. As far as in me lay, I have done Thee no dishonor. Behold how I have used the senses, the primary conceptions which Thou gavest me. Have I ever laid anything, to Thy charge? Have I ever murmured at aught that came to pass, or wished it otherwise? Have I in anything transgressed the relations of life? For that Thou didst beget me, I thank Thee for that Thou hast given; for the time during which I have used the things that were Thine, it suffices me. Take them back and place them wherever Thou wilt! They were all Thine,, and Thou gavest them me. If a man depart thus minded, is it not enough?' What life is fairer or more noble, what end happier than his?" The above impressive thoughts are suggested by a review of the life of the late John Edwards, of this county, whose passing in the year 1901 was the occasion of such general and sincere mourning throughout this whole region. In making up a history of Putnam county it would be impossible to disregard the great part which Mr. Edwards took in the industrial and financial development of the commonwealth, a part the value of which to the community the present historian hardly dare estimate, for the service whicL -282 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. he gave was cumulative in its value, its effects being still widely apparent and growing in value, even as the enterprises which he promoted in his life are growing in extent. It therefore must be left to the future historian to at- ternpt a proper estimate of the service which Mr. Edwards rendered to his community, the present reviewer contenting himself with the presentation here of those interesting biographical facts in the career of the late deceased which now ha\'e become a part of the common interest of this people. On other pages of this volume, in the biographical sketches relating to his elder brother, William W. Edwards, also deceased, and his surviving brother, Joseph H. Edwards, the well-known banker at Leipsic, the genealogy of the Edwards family in this country is set out at informative length and it therefore will be sufficient to say here that the late John Edwards was born in Licking county, Ohio, January 27, 1850, a son of Thomas W. and Isabel Edwards, and when but eight years of age moved with his parents to Morrow county, in the same state, the family, in the year 1861, coming to Putnam county, where they settled on a farm in section 27, Van Buren township, and there John Edwards grew to manhood, receiving the training and acquiring the unusual physical vigor which later and during his hfe of active service stood him in such good stead. Air. Edwards' early manhood was spent on his father's farm, his larger business career not beginning until he was twenty-eight years of age. This was in 1878, in which year he purchased an interest in the stave manufac- turing business of Henry and Jonas Lenhart. In 1886, the great possibilities of this business having then become apparent, the company was enlarged and Mr. Edwards, in association with his brother, William W. Edwards, I. N. Bushong, J. S. Lenhart and D. L. Critten, organized the Buckeye Stave Company, of which Joseph H. Edwards soon after became a member. The growth of this business was phenomenal, the energy and far-sighted business sagacit)- of the directors thereof soon making it one of the most extensive enterprises in this section of Ohio. Originally the company owned mills only at Leipsic, Continental and Columbus €re*,ve, in this county, but in 1890 a mill was added at Pleasant Bend; in i)'>gi mills were located at Kalida and at Avis; in 1892 at Elm Center tHrJ- at Mancelona, Michigan, and in 1894 at Gladstone, Michigan. The business grew by leaps and bounds, until, at the time of Mr. Edwards' death in 190 1, the company owned twenty- three mills in Ohio and southern Michigan and was interested in five more in the northern peninsula of Michigan, the company at that time employing more than a thousand men and being recognized as the largest stave com- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 283 pany in the world. In addition to its great manufacturing interests, the Buckeye Stave Company extensively engaged in the banking business. In 1887 the company purchased the bank at Leipsic and in 1891 established the bank at Continental, both in this county, the same being operated as private •concerns, the stock controlled by the stockholders of the stave company, the Edwards connection later extending its banking interests to Toledo and Pindlay, Ohio. In all his large and growing business activities Mr. Edwards ^ave himself unsparingly. From the very inception of this business he displayed an untiring zeal in the extension of the company's affairs, con- tinually taking a most active and important part in the development of the business. His untimely death, on September 30, 1901, was a great blow to the company as well as a real shock to the community. Taken at the age of fifty-one, in the very prime of his life, it was difficult for many to reconcile themselves to what they regarded as his untimely departure, and he was sincerely mourned. To the death of John Edwards the noble Epictetan concept which intro- duces this biography seems peculiarly applicable. He indeed had been true in all the relations of life, diligent in business, serving the Lord, and in his passing he left a memory which long shall be honored in the community which knew him so well. Though his life was one of commonplace begin- nings, in its entirety it was far from commonplace. Endowed by nature with an excellent physique and a most gracious and engaging personality, he was a natural leader of men and his great business success hardly cotild have been otherwise. Greater, however, than his mere outward endowments were those fine traits of character which made him a strong and an upright man. Possessed of exceptional executive ability and far-sightedness in matters of business policy, together with a native will-power and a habit of constantly striving to do more and to do it better, he was successful in business far beyond the measure of the success of the average man. This success was not achieved, however, at the expense of character, but rather because of char- acter. Of his honesty and sincerity much could be said, for they were essen- tial characteristics with him. His kindliness of heart and generosity of nature were traits that endeared him to all with whom he came in contact. This generosity found expression, not only in countless private benefactions of which the public had no information, for Mr. Edwards was not one to let his right hand know what his left was doing in such matters, but colleges, . churches and many worthy institutions found him a liberal giver. He, in- deed, gave a good account "for the time during which I have used the things 284 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. that were Thine," and it sufficed him. He regarded himself as a mere steward of the great worldly wealth which was given him and sought ever to govern his giving accordingly. In a quiet way he also was public-spirited and his influence was always exerted in behalf of such measures of public con- cern as promised the greatest advancement of the common weal, the weight of his counsels ever being on the side of the right. With quiet reticence, the charming modesty of the truly great, Mr. Edwards avoided all ostenta- tion and, despite the power which his wealth inevitably gave him, was kindly and considerate to all, so that in his passing there was sincere mourning among all classes. Working out his own tranquillity, he thus had rendered that which is due to every relation of life. On August 21, 1873, John Edwards was united in marriage to Mary E. Lenhart, who was born a mile west of Leipsic, in this county, the daughter of Henry S. and Adaline (Braucht) Lenhart, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania who moved to Hancock county, Ohio, in his young manhood and there married Adaline Braucht, who was born in that county, a member of one of the pioneer families. In 1854 the Lenharts came to this county and located on a farm west of the town of Leipsic, where Mrs. Len- hart died in 1869. Mr. Lenhart married a second time, taking as his wife Mrs. Anna (McConnell) Reed, and moved into Leipsic where his death occurred in 1904. To John and Mary E. (Lenhart) Edwards were born four sons, Henry Clyde, Thomas Charles, William Earl and Oliver Pearl, the latter of whom are twms. Henry C. Edwards, who li\es on an extensive ranch in Texas, married Bertha Hadsell and has one son. Max Hadsell, now sixteen years of age. Thomas C. Edwards, who represents his late father's interest in the bank at Leipsic, married Blanche Patterson, of Manchester, Ohio, to which union were born four children, John Leon, Thomas Robert, Mary Elizabeth and Janet Virginia. William E. Edwards is a teacher in the high school at Leipsic and Oliver P. Edwards, who is one of the leading directors of the celebrated Temco Electric Motor Company at Leipsic, married Josephine Niblick, of Decatur, Indiana, and has one daughter, Harriet. Mr. and Mrs. Edwards reared their children in the faith of the Meth- odist church and were warmly interested in all the various beneficences of that organization. Mr. Edwards was one of the church's most zealous sup- porters and took an earnest part in its numerous lines of activity, giving not only liberally of money, but unsparingly of his time and the benefit oi his great business ability, and the local congregation felt a sense of real bereave- ment upon his passage from this life. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 285 CHARLES H. JONES. Among the worthy citizens of Columbus Grove, Putnam county, Ohio, whose residence here has contributed in no small degree to the prestige of the county, is Charles H. Jones, a well-known manufacturer. While laboring for his individual interests, he has not forgotten his obligations to the public, and his support of worthy measures and movements can always be depended upon. Although his life has been a busy one, his private affairs making heavy demands upon his time, he has never allowed it to interfere with his obliga- tions as a citizen and a neighbor. Through long years of residence in this lo- cality, he has ever been true to the trusts reposed in him, whether of a public or private nature. His reputation,' in a business way, is unassailable. Pos- sessing in a marked degree those sterling traits which command uniform con- fidence and regard, he is today honored by all who know him and numbered among the representative men of Putnam county. Charles H. Jones was born at Troy, Ohio, May 24, 1861. He is a son of Jeremiah F. and Martha Jane (Hajrt) Jones. The Joneses were natives of Wales. John Jones was born in Virginia, and emigrated to Bath county, Kentucky, where he married a Miss Greene. To this union were born eleven children, Oliver, Goldsbury, John, Mary Ann, Elizabeth, George, Zechariah, Elihu, Artimesia, Isabella and Salem. George Jones was born in Bath county, Kentucky, June 9, 1808, and emigrated to Miami county, Ohio, about 1826. He was married in 1829 to Eleanor Gearhart, whose parents were originally natives of Germany. Henry Gerhart was born in Washington county, Mary- land, about 1767, and married Barbara Young. They emigrated to Rock- bridge county. West Virginia, and were the parents of the following chil- dren, John, William, Anna, Elizabeth, Eleanor, Henry, Lewis and Joseph. Eleanor was born in Rockbridge county, West Virginia, September 5, 1810, and emigrated with her parents to Miami county, Ohio, in 18 16. She was married to George Jones in 1829. To this union five children were born, Jeremiah Fuson, Samantha Isabella, Simeon Gearhart, Anna Tabitha and Melyn Baker. Jeremiah Fuson Jones was born on December 31, 1832. He married Martha Jane Hart, April 10, 1885. The Hart family were natives of New Jersey. John Hart, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, was one of the progenitors of the Hart family. Charles Hart was born in New Jersey, about 1770, and married a Miss Chamberlin. He emigrated with his family to Miami county, Ohio, about 1806: He and his wife were the parents of four children, Ellen, William Levi, Wilson and Henry. ^°" PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. William L. Hart was born in New Jersey, in 1810, and emigrated with his parents to Ohio. He was married to Margaret Julien about 1832, a lady of French extraction, of Miami county, Ohio. They were the parents- of several children, Martha Jane, Justin Cyprian, John Lyman Beecher, Charles, Clarence Edgar and Alice, the last two named being twins. Martha Jane Hart was born in Miami county, Ohio, May 22, 1834, and married Jeremiah Fuson Jones, as stated above. To this union four chil- dren were born, Ada Luella, Delia Doris, Charles H. and George Edgar. Jeremiah Fuson Jones attended the country schools, until he reached the age of eighteen, and then undertook a course in Linden Hill Academy, at New Carlisle, Ohio, at that time, under the direction of Prof. Thomas Harrison, a graduate of Oxford University, England. Mr. Jones remained in this school for two years, and in the fall of 1853, began to teach school in Champaign county, Ohio, after which he taught one year in the schools of Miami county, Ohio, and continued teaching here until 1863, when he re- moved to Putnam county, where he was employed as superintendent of the public schools, at Delphos. Professor Jones held this position until 1867, when he moved to Anderson, Indiana, and became principal of the first ward school, of that city. He became superintendent of the Pendleton, Indiana, schools in January, 1868, and after one year in that place, returned to Del- phos, Ohio, where he was superintendent of the schools for three years. Mr. Jones became superintendent of the schools at Columbus Grove, Ohio, in 1875, which position he filled for some years. Professor Jones retired from the educational field in 1883, having given thirty years of his life to that work. Before leaving the teaching profession in 1879, Mr. Jones had be- come interested in the manufacture of handles, a business in which he was to become associated with his sons, Charles H. and George E. The factory at Columbus Grove specializes in second-growth hickory handles for tools and axes. All the handles are shaved and no turned han- dles are produced. The goods from this factory are sold all over the United States, chiefly on the Pacific coast. The firm name is now J F Jones' Sons and is composed of C. H. Jones and George E. Jones. Charles H Jones became a partner in 1884, and George E. Jones came into the firm about ten years later. About twenty years ago, J. F. Jones retired from the active management of the business and, since that time, has lived in Toledo, Ohio. Charles H. Jones received his education in the schools at Columbus Grove, where he graduated. He has been engaged in the handle business smce 1884. He is president of the Northern Ohio Cooperage & Lumber PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 287 Company, of Parkin, Arkansas, and is also engaged in numerous other business enterprises. Charles H. Jones was married on June 23, 1887, to Alice Rebecca Wy- man, who was born and reared at Sidney, Ohio, and who is a daughter of Judge N. R. and Mary Wyman. Her father's name was Nathan Russell Wyman, he was born in Vermont, in 1821, and moved to Ohio in 1840. Nathan Wyman was in business in Sidney, Ohio, for many years, and was prominent as a Democrat, having been probate judge for several terms. He was appointed superintendent of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan Home at Xenia, Ohio. At the time of his death, August 29, 1886, he was manu- facturing buggy spokes in Sidney. Her mother was mary Hale Wyman, born in New York state in 1822, and died in Sidney, Ohio, November 3, 1905, at the advanced age of eighty- three years. To this union two daughters have been born, Edith R. and Jeannette. Edith is a teacher of Latin and German in the Columbus Grove schools. She attended the Western College for Women, at Oxford, Ohio, and then attended Wooster University, where she graduated in 1910. She is also a graduate of the music department of the latter institution. Jeanette is a junior in the University of Wisconsin, at Madison, Wisconsin. She is a member of the university orchestra. Previously, she took one year at Wooster. Charles H. Jones is a Republican, and served four years as postmaster of Columbus Grove, during President Harrison's administration. He is a prominent Mason, having attained to the thirty-second degree of the Scot- tish Rite, and is also a member of the Mystic Shrine. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and takes an active interest in the work of that denomination, being a trustee of the church at this time, at Columbus Grove. George Edgar Jones, the third member of the firm of J. F. Jones' Sons, was born March 24, 1872, at Delphos, Ohio. He grew to manhood at Co- lumbus Grove, and after leaving the public schools, took a business course at Cincinnati, Ohio. He then entered business college, where he spent a short time at Chicago as an electrician. He became a member of the firm of J. F. Jones' Sons about 1894, and has devoted his time to this business since that date. George Edgar Jones was married on May 22, 1894, to Grace Adelaide Dye, who was born at Columbus Grove, and who is a daughter of Willis Hance and Fannie Adelaide (Dann) Dye. Her father was a native of ^88 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Miami county, Ohio, and her mother a native of New Haven, Connecticut. Mrs. Jones' parents moved to Putnam county forty-one years ago, from Sidney, where they had Hved one year after their marriage. They lived at Columbus Grove until the death of Mrs. Dye in 1899, after which Mr. Dye moved to Van Wert, Ohio, and engaged in the grocery business. From there he went to Florida, where he is now living. He was engaged in the grocery business during all the time he was living in Columbus Grove, ex- cept ten years, which were devoted to the interests of a milling business. To Mr. and Mrs. George E. Jones three children have been born, Gran- ville Dye, Robert Edgar and Jeremiah Franklin. Granville is now a junior at the University of Michigan, and prior to going there, was a student at the University of Wooster for one year. George E. Jones and family are ac- tive and earnest members of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Jones is a mem- ber of the Free and Accepted Masons, having attained to the thirty-second degree, in that time-honored order. He is also a member of the Nobles of "the Mystic Shrine. The Jones family is among the best known of Putnam county, they are leaders in the commercial, religious and social life of this section of Putnam ■county, and are well worthy of representation in the annals of their county. JUDGE JULIUS SINCLAIR OGAN. An attorney of Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, and one of the largest landowners of the county, is Judge Julius Sinclair Ogan, who has been a resident of Ottawa since the fall of 1882. He was born and reared in this county, and with the exception of the years which he spent in college, has lived his whole life within its precincts. After graduating from the classical course at Oberlin College, he graduated from the law department of Michi- gan University, and has been engaged in the active practice of his profession since 1878. He has never been an aspirant for public office, and has never held but one, being appointed judge of the common pleas court for a period of eleven months. He has preferred to give his time and attention to his private practice and to the management of his large landholdings in this county. Julius S. Ogan, the son of Noah W. and Nancy (Custer) Ogan, was born in Pleasant township, Putnam county, Ohio, June 9, 1850. His father Avas born in Green county, Ohio, October 21, 182 1, a son of Peter Ogan and PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 289 wife. Noah Ogan came to Putnam county about 1834 with his parents and located in Pleasant township and there he spent his youth and young man- hood. After his marriage to Nancy Custer, a daughter of Daniel Custer -and wife, Noah W. Ogan located on. the farm next to that of his father, in Pleasant township, and lived there until the latter part of the fifties, when he moved to Columbus Grove, where he engaged in the grain and grocery business, remaining there until the opening of the Civil War. He enlisted, in September, 1861, and was made captain of Company K, Fourteenth Regi- ment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served for about three years, and was discharged after the battle of Jonesboro, Georgia, on account of total dis- ability, arising from the loss of his left arm. After the close of the war, Noah Ogan returned to Columbus Grove and engaged in various pursuits. He was engaged in the internal revenue service for some time, and also owned a farm near the village. He also practiced law in Columbus Grove, where he spent his declining years, his death occurring there on May 29, 1906. His first wife died about 1869, and some years later he married Emma Elliott. -By his first marriage there were four children, two of whom died in infancy. The others were, Jennie, who became the wife of Daniel Henley, and lived in Cleveland, Ohio, until her death, and Julius S., whose history is here pre- sented. By the second marriage of Noah W. Ogan were born two children, Servitus Wesley and Silas Jerome. Julius S. Ogan grew to manhood, at Columbus Grove, and after receiv- ing his elementary education in the schools of that village, he entered Oberlin College, graduating with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, in 1876. He at once entered the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, and graduated from the law course, in. the spring of 1878. With this excellent training, it is no won- der that he was a successful lawyer, from the beginning. He began prac- ticing at Columbus Grove immediately after his graduation, and he and his father were in partnership in that place, until 1882. In the fall of that year he moved to Ottawa and went in partnership with John M. Sheets, who has since become the attorney-general of Ohio. Mr. Sheets was elected common pleas judge in 1894, and at that time Mr. Ogan went into partnership with William H. Handy, who had just retired from the common pleas bench. Mr. Ogan and Mr. Handy continued in partnership until the latter part of 1905, when Mr. Ogan was appointed judge of the common pleas court. He held this office for about eleven months, and since then has practiced alone. Mr. Ogan was married on December 25, 1882, to Estella Turner, who was born in Pleasant township, Putnam county, and is the daughter of Will- 19 290 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. iam M. and Martha Jane (Kuhn) Turner. Her grandfather was probate judge and died soon after he went out of office. Mr. Ogan and his wife are the parents of five children, four of whom are hving: WilHam Wesley dying at the age of six. The four children are Martha Jane, Myrtle, Mildred and Julius S. Myrtle is the wife of Dr. Joseph Shaw, of Coshocton, Ohio, while the other two children are still living with their parents. Julius is now attend- ing the Ohio State University at Columbus. Mildred married J. F. Donart,. who is in the real estate and loan business at Ottawa. Mr. Ogan was appointed a member of the Putnam county Building Com- mittee in 1909, which had general charge of the construction of the new court house. He remained on this committee until the court house was finally completed and contributed his full share to the laborious duties of this com- mittee. He is president of the Ottawa Home and Savings Association and one of its largest stockholders. He owns nine hundred and thirty acres of land ia Putnam county, from which he derives a very profitable income annually. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, being a member of the blue lodge, chapter and council. WILLIAM HENRY HANDY. A distinguished citizen of Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, a veteran of the Civil War and a former judge of the common pleas court, William Henry Handy is eminently entitled to representation in the history of his county.. He enlisted for service in the Civil War, when he was only sixteen years, of age, and served until the fall of 1865. Studying law, after the close of the war, he was admitted to the bar in 1868, and has been in continuous practice since that time. He has been a resident of Ottawa since the spring of 1894, and has taken active part in the life of the county seat of Putnam county since that time. William Henry Handy, an attorney, of Ottawa, was born on January 29, 1847, in Pike township, Fulton county, Ohio. He is a son of Michael and Mary A. (Bryan) Handy. Michael Handy was born at Danby, Tomp- kins county. New York, in December, 1812, and was a son of Michael Handy, Sr., an old resident of the same county. The name was originally spelled Hendee, and two brothers with that name came from Wales during the seventeenth century, one settling in Vermont and the other in Virginia.. William H. Handy is a descendant of the Hendee who located in Vermont. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 291 Michael Handy, the father of WilHam Henry, was a school teacher in Canada, but during the period of turmoil in that country was driven out and went to Algonac, Michigan, where he was married on September 22, 1836, to Mary A. Bryan. She, too, had been a teacher in Canada, and had come to Michigan, and she, likewise, was born in Tompkins county, New York, where her husband was born. In the winter of 1839-40, Michael Handy and wife moved from Michigan to Fulton county, Ohio, and located on a farm. He taught school, farmed and also cobbled shoes. He was a very industrious man and taught school by day and pegged shoes by night, and shook with the ague between times. In addition to his teaching school, shoemaking and farming, he also operated a blacksmith shop, did some cabi- net making, and at odd times studied law, and it can be seen that he was a man of great industry and of no inconsiderable intellectual ability. After Putnam county was set off as a separate county in 1850 Michael Handy moved to Ottokee, the new county seat, and followed the practice of law. He moved to Wauseon, Ohio, in 187 1, the new county seat of Fulton county, and lived there the remainder of his life. He served as prosecuting attorney of Fulton county, and also as mayor of Wauseon. He died on March 6, 1885, his wife having passed away on April i, 1880. William Henry Handy was educated in the schools of Fulton county, Ohio. When he was only sixteen years of age, on June 16, 1863, Mr. Handy enlisted in Company H, Eighty-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered in for the six months' service After serving in Ken- tucky, Tennessee and Virginia, he was discharged on February 10, 1864. He re-enlisted, April 15, of the same year, in Company H, Sixty-seventh Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was in continuous service until September 10, 1865, when he was discharged as sergeant. He served in the campaigns against Petersburg and Richmond, and was at Appomattox when Lee surrendered. Immediately after the close of the war, Mr. Handy returned home and began the study of law with his father. He was admitted to the practice of law, at Toledo, Ohio, in 1868, being twenty-one years of age at the time. He took up the practice of his profession with his father at Ottokee, the county seat of Fulton county, Ohio, and the father and son practiced to- gether until the first of January, 1875. At that time Mr. Handy and Frank H. Hurd started the Democratic Expositor, and operated this newspaper until m March, 1877, when it was sold to J. C. Balmeier. Mr. Handy at once returned to the practice of law at Wauseon, to which place his father had moved, upon the change of the county seat of Fulton county. He was 292 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. in the continuous practice of his profession, in Wauseon, until February 10, 1885, when he assumed the duties of common pleas judge, to which office he had been appointed by Governor Hoadly. He filled this office by appoint- ment and election, until May 10, 1894, a period of more than nine years, during which time he gave satisfactory service to the citizens of the three counties which composed his jurisdiction. At that time Putnam, Fulton and Henry counties combined in one judicial district. At the expiration of his term of office, in the spring of 1894, Mr. Handy moved to Ottawa, where he has since resided. He resumed the practice of his profession in partner- ship with A. S. Ogan, and the firm continued together until in December, 1899. At that time Mr. Unverferth became the partner of Mr. Handy. Mr. Handy was married on October 16, 1869, to Isabelle J. Van Ars- dale, who was born at Marseilles, Wyandot county, Ohio, and is a daugh- ter of John and Marietta (Norton) Van Arsdale. Her parents moved to Ottokee about 1867, where she was living at the time of her marriage. Mr. Handy and his wife are the parents of three children, Harry L., Clive C. and May B. Harry married Maude Snyder, and is a locomotive engineer. Clive C. is an attorney in the legal department of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway Company, at Cleveland. He married Herma Orth, of Wauseon, and has one son, William O. May B. is a stenographer, and makes her home in Ottawa with her parents. Mr. Handy has long been a leading factor in Democratic politics, but he has never held any other position than that of judge of the common pleas court. He is a Free and Accepted Mason and has attained the Royal and Select Masters degree. He is a genial citizen, fond of a good joke, and well known, not only throughout Putnam county, but throughout this sec- tion of the state. WILLIAM T. COLE. A veteran of the Civil War and a business man of Leipsic for a quar- ter of a century, who was the postmaster of that city, William T. Cole had been connected with the history of Putnam county since 1869. He en- listed in the Civil War when he was sixteen years of age, and after his en- listment had expired re-enlisted and served until the close of the war. He came to this county in 1869 and after farming for three years, located in Leipsic, where he has clerked in various stores and engaged in business for himself for more than twenty-five years. He had been the postmaster of Leipsic since 1907. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 293 William T. Cole, the son of Alonzo and Sarah (Caldwell) Cole, was born in what was then called Frankleton, now West Columbus, Franklin county, Ohio, November 9, 1847. His father was born in Vermont and came to Columbus in childhood with his parents. His mother was born in Franklin county, Ohio, and was a daughter of William Caldwell and wife. His father was a life-long farmer. Alonzo Cole was a school teacher in early life, and afterward engaged in farming. He moved to Delaware county, Ohio, while William T. was yet a child and remained there until 1871, when he moved to Putnam county. He bought a farm two miles east of Leipsic and farmed there until his de- clining years, when he retired and moved into Leipsic, where he died. Alonzo Cole and wife were the parents of nine children, Oscar, deceased; Charles, of Leipsic; Malissa, deceased, who was the wife of Justus Butler; Elisa, deceased, who was the wife of Mason Beardsley; Mary, the widow of George Whitman, who now lives with her daughter at Wheeling, West Vir- ginia; William T., of Leipsic, deceased, and three children who died in infancy. William T. Cole was reared in Delaware county, Ohio, and was living there at the time of the opening of the Civil War. He was large for his age and, although only sixteen, succeeded in becoming a member of Com- pany H, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served with this company for four months around Washington, D. C, and was then discharged with his company. He returned home and went to school one winter and in the following March enlisted again in Company B, One Hundred and Ninety-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was sent with his regiment to Winchester, Virginia, where the regiment was divided up and his company sent to Fort Federal Hill, near Baltimore, and he remained there the seven months which elapsed until the close of the war. After the close of the Civil War, Mr. Cole returned to his home in Delaware county and worked on a farm and in a saw-mill. He married in 1867 and located in Delaware county, but in 1869, he and his brother, Oscar, and two brothers-in-law, Justus Butler and George Whitman, came to Put- nam county where the four of them bought a half section of land, two miles east of Leipsic. Mr. Cole clejjred his share of the land, but only lived on it for three years. He then moved to Leipsic and engaged in business, and until he became postmaster in 1907, he was either clerking in stores in the city, or engaged in business for himself. He was commissioned postmaster of Leipsic, December 16, 1907, and was re-appointed in 19 12 for four more years. -94 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Cole was married on December 29, 1867, to Olive Critchet, who was born in Licking county, Ohio, November 18, 1851, and is a daughter of Benjamin and Susan (Slutz) Critchet. Her father was a farmer and for forty years was a justice of the peace in Licking county. To this union were born four children, two dying in infancy, and two sons, Alvin M. and Charles Ray, who are still surviving. Alvin M. was born on December 23. 1874, and is now assistant postmaster of Leipsic. He married Nellie Schroeder. Charles R., born July 23, 1880, is now a clerk in the postoffice. Charles married Nettie Altekruse, of Ottawa, and they have two daughters, Margaret and Thelma. Mr. Cole and his wife and son, Ray, attended the Disciples church. He was a member of the Knights of Pythias. He had long been identified with the Republican party, and has served as township treasurer and town- ship assessor, rendering his fellow citizens faithful and efficient service in both capacities. William T. Cole died on February 27, 1915. WILLIAM LEWIS WERNER, M. D. Although William Lewis Werner, M. D., has been a resident of Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio, since the spring of 1908, he has already built up a large practice in the city and surrounding community. He is a man of exceptional training, along medical lines, as is attested by the number of diplomas from many of the most eminent schools of medicine in the United States. Not only has Doctor Werner met with pronounced success as a physician, but he has also taken an active part in the civic life of his com- munity. William L. Werner, M. D., the son of Andrew and Catherine (Roth) Werner, was born at Eglon, Preston county. West Virginia, November 27, 1868. His father was born in Pennsylvania, and for many years engaged in the carpentering and contracting business and, in 1888, became the pro- prietor of a summer resort hotel at Eglon, West Virginia, which he managed until his wife's death, in 1906. A few years later he married again, and is now living a retired life at Kingwood, West Virginia. He and his wife are members of the English Lutheran church. Andrew Werner served during the Civil War in the Union army. Doctor Werner was reared in Preston county. West Virginia, where as a youth he engaged in mercantile pursuits for a short time. Later, he engaged in the same business, at Gormania, in Grant county. West Virginia, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 295 for a tiine. Doctor Werner graduated from the Thomas (West Virginia) high school in 1896, and in the following year entered the Eclectic Medical Institute, at Cincinnati, Ohio, graduating from that institution, in April, 1901. Doctor Werner really began his practice before he completed his college course. At the end of his second year, he became an assistant to Dr. B. Baker, at Thomas, West Virginia, and at the end of his third year, was ad- mitted to the practice of his profession in West Virginia. After he gradu- ated in 1901, he returned to Thomas, where he continued the practice of medicine, until 1907. He built up a good practice in that place and became president of the State Eclectic Medical Association and a member of the pension examining board of his county. He was also physician for the poor in the Fairfax and Davis districts, and president of the county board of health. Doctor Werner was not satisfied to discontinue his medical studies, in 1901, and since that time has taken many post-graduate courses in various schools throughout the country. He has taken a post-graduate course in the Philadelphia Polyclinic and College for Graduates in Medicine, during which time he pursued a general course for graduate physicians, and later, a special course in diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat. He also took a special course in abdominal surgery and gynecology. He graduated from the Na- tional College of Electro-Therapeutics, in the subjects of electro-physics and electro-therapeutics. He took a general post-graduate course at Johns Hop- kins University, in 1906, a school which ranks as the best post-graduate college in America, and it is evident, from Doctor Werner's post-graduate work, that he is eminently fitted for his chosen profession. Doctor Werner permanently located at Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio, on May 5, 1908, where he has since continued his practice. It is needless to add that he has been successful from the beginning, and he finds his work constantly increasing. Since locating in Leipsic, he has taken an active part in the afifairs of the community, and at the present time is a member of the school board. He is unusually well-equipped in his office for all kinds of medical work. He has a stock of drugs and does all of his prescription compounding. He has an oxyolene machine, which cost him nearly a thou- sand dollars; high frequency and X-ray machine, an electric vibrator, a fine equipment for optical examinations, a large and varied assortment of surgical instruments, and, in fact, everything which the twentieth-century physician and surgeon needs in general practice. It is interesting to note that Doctor Werner was married before he was twenty-five years of age, and he attributes no small share of his wonderful 296 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. success to the inspiration of his wife. He was married on September 25, 1893, to Lucretia E. Chisholm, who was born in Garrett county, Maryland, m 1876, and is a daughter of Alexander and Emily Chisholm, of Scottish parentage. To this union have been born two children, Myrtle Lucile and William Lewis, Jr. Lucile married Fred C. Smith, of Jersey City, New Jersey. Doctor Werner and his family are members of the Lutheran church and he holds his membership in the Knights of Pythias, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He has always taken a great interest in the state and national medical associations and makes it a point to keep in close touch with the latest developments in his profession. He has been particu- larly interested in the study of typhoid fever, its causes and treatment. While living in West Virginia, he was appointed, by the governor of the state, as- delegate to the American Anti-Tuberculosis League, in 1907. Doctor Werner is still a young man and the success which has attended his efforts, thus. far, indicates that he has a long and prosperous career before him. ALDINE J. WELTY. It is one of the outstanding features of our government that it acknowl- edges no hereditary rank or title, no patent of nobility, save that of nature, leaving every man to fix his own rank and to become the artificer of his own fortune. Places of honor, rank and preferment are thus happily placed before every individual, high or low, rich or poor, to be striven for by all,, but earned alone by perseverance and sterling worth, and are almost always sure to be filled by deserving men, or at least by those possessing the energy and talent essential to success in contest for public position. Aldine J. Welty is a conspicuous example of the successful, self-made American citizen, who is not only eminently deserving of the confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens, but who also possesses the necessary energy and talent which fit him to discharge worthily the duties of the responsible place with which he has been charged. He is a man of vigorous mentality and strong mental fiber, and has found these qualities the chief factors in carving out a career above suspicion and reproach. He is an honor to the county,, which he is so splendidly serving. Aldine J. Welty, the well-known secretary of the Pandora Overall Company, and a young man of splendid business ability, was born January ^S J-'-^'/X^-Lf ^■J^^s,A'^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 297- 27, 1883, in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of John U. and Catherine (Thut) Wehy, the former of whom is a native of Berne, Switzerland, born February 5, 1840, the son of John and Mary Ann (Gerber) Welty. Aldine J. Welty grew up on the home farm and attended the old Mul- berry district school until the age of seventeen, and then entered the Pandora high school from which he was graduated at the age of twenty-one, with- the class of 1904. He worked for a short time at the carpenter's trade and, subsequently, took a trip west, visiting the World's Fair, in St. Louis, in 1904, Denver, and thence to eastern Washington and other points. He re- mained in this portion of the west for about nine months and during a part of this time, taught school. Upon his return home, he engaged in teach- ing for five years and, during vacations, employed his time as a clerk in the- store of David Lichty at Pandora. Mr. Welty was married on June 25, 1907, at the age of twenty-five, to- Mary B. Amstutz, the daughter of Abraham M. and Catherine (Hilty) Amstutz, and to this union three children have been born, Clyde Lawrence^ Arthur Laurel, who died at the age of three months, and Leland J. After his marriage, Mr. Welty continued to teach for one year, when he became affiliated with the Pandora Overall Company, first as a salesman and, later, as secretary and joint manager. He has been very successful in his business relations thus far, and is the largest employer of labor in Putnam county. Mr. Welty also has control of two other factories, one at Celina,. and the other at Zanesville, Ohio, being engaged in business similar to that at Pandora. Aldine J. Welty's grandfather was born at Berne, Switzerland, in 1804.- He was a farmer in Switzerland and was considered well-to-do, for his time. In addition to being a farmer, he was a mechanical genius and an able car- penter. He came to America in 1845, landing at New York City after forty- five days on the water. He came direct to Ohio and settled shortly after- wards in Riley township, Putnam county, where he entered land from the government. This farm comprised one hundred and sixty acres, which Mr. Welty proceeded to clear and drain. He built a log cabin and other build- ings, and it was here that he reared his family. There were twelve children, four of whom were born in Switzerland, Fred, who resides in Oklahoma; John U., the father of Aldine J.; David; Annie, the wife of Rev. Zimmerly; John, who lives in Oregon; Christian; Abraham, who also lives in Oregon; Fannie, the deceased wife of Abraham Reusser, of Kansas; Amos; Peter[ who also resides in Oregon; Samuel, and Anna, the wife of Peter R. Graberl .298 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of Kansas. In addition to rearing this splendid family of children, all of whom grew to maturity, and all of whom, except one, married, John Welty, .Sr., reared four orphan children. One of them married his youngest son, Samuel. John Welty was a close friend and associate of the well-known Rev. John Moser. It is related that so close was their fellowship, they had but one pocketbook. It is further stated that John Welty never took a man's Tiote for money loaned, depending entirely upon the man's sense of honor. He was a man who was strictly religious, and was one of the founders of ihe Mennonite church. He was universally respected and well known as a ^ood man and an upright citizen. He had, according to a recent counting, one hundred and one grandchildren living. From time to time he added to his holdings until he accumulated eight hundred and forty acres of land. The original Welty homestead was located in the southeastern corner, of Putnam county. It was here that John U. Welty was brought by his par- ents, when five years old. Here he attended the typical log cabin school, and it was here that he grew to manhood. This country, at that time, was heavily timbered, and almost totally under water. He remained with his people until he was twenty-seven years old, and at times worked for neigh- boring farmers. It is related that the greatest compensation he received at any time for his labors, was one hundred and five dollars, and a suit of clothes. At the age of twenty-seven, he was married to Catherine Thut, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, September 18, 1842, the daughter of Peter I. and Elizabeth (Burkholder) Thut, also pioneers of Allen county. The Thut family had come from Switzerland, and comprised a number of deeply religious people. The Burkholder family was known for its thrift and economy. After John U. Welty was married, he moved to a farm of his father's, -two and one-half miles east of Pandora, which he later purchased of his father. Eight acres of this land was cleared and had a log cabin and barn upon it, and it was here that he reared his family of six children, all of whom are living, and where he is living at the present time. His children follow : Amos, who married Margaret Suter, has seven children and lives in Marin- ette, Wisconsin. Menno, who resides in Reedley, California, married Anna Schragg, and has three sons. Elias, who lives in Pandora, married Elizabeth Amstutz, and has six children. Elizabeth, who is the wife of Albert B. Hilty, of Riley township, has four children. William, who resides on the home place, married Ella Bracy, and has three children. Aldine J. is the ■subject of this sketch. John U. Welty has been a very successful man. He has accumulated PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 299 considerable money and property aside from his farm holdings. He suffered a great misfortune, on May 19, 1900, when his wife passed away. For years she had been in delicate health. She was a kind and affectionate woman, and throughout her life had been a great sufferer, but bore it all un- complainingly, and was the light and sunshine of her home. Aldine J. Welty has been prominent in Democratic politics in Putnam county for many years. He is at present a central committeeman and was a prominent candidate for delegate to the national Democratic convention, at Baltimore, in 1912. In December, of that year, he was appointed on a committee of ten, from Ohio, to confer at Washington, D. C, with August Belmont and other Democratic leaders. He performed efficient service for his party on this committee. Mr. Welty is also one of the organizers of the town and township Democratic Club. In recognition of Mr. Welty's services to the Democratic party, President Wilson sent him his autographed photo- graph. During Bryan's campaign, in the fall of 1912, Mr. Welty was a member of the entertainment committee in his congressional district. For the past seven years Mr. Welty has been secretary of the Grace Mennonite church, of which the entire family are members. For two years he has been superintendent of the Sunday school. He is secretary of the lecture board of his own town and also vice-president of the school board. Aldine J. Welty is a young man who has traveled extensively, from ocean to ocean, and has added to his already good education by both study and travel. He is always to be foiind behind any movement pertaining to the progress or betterment of the community. He is a man of the cleanest character and the very highest ideals. Possessed of splendid executive ability, -as he is, and with his natural capacity for leadership, he is expected to become one of the leading factors of the Democratic party in the state of Ohio. He is eminently equipped for work of this character. W. M. GEORGE. More and more, every year, the public is realizing the importance of maintaining a complete and accurate record of the proceedings of the county courts. Upon the accuracy and thoroughness of these local records much depends, as the vital interests of future generations may seriously hinge, some time, upon the preservation today of items of record that may, in them- selves, seem trivial. The importance, therefore, of having some one in the 300 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. office of the clerk of the county courts who, by training and inclination, is. given to thoroughness and studious attention to even the most minor details, of his office, cannot be over estimated. That Putnam county, in recent years, has been fortunate in securing the valuable services of such a public servant in the office of the clerk of courts, is a matter of general congratu- lation in the county, it being felt that the records of these important courts, are safe in the hands of the present incumbent. That the people of the county were satisfied with the selection they had made of such a public servant, was made plainly evident by the flattering re-election of W. M. George, at the last election to the office which, for one term, he had filled with such eminent satisfaction to the general public, particularly to those whose greater interest it is to know that the records of the county courts are being properly pre- served, and it is a pleasure for the biographer here to present a brief and modest review of the life's history of the gentleman whose name forms the caption for this interesting biographical sketch. W. M. George, clerk of the court of Putnam county, Ohio, and per- haps one of the best-known and most popular county officials that ever held office in the court house, was born on October i6, 1867, '" Van Buren town- ship, Putnam county, the son of John H. and Mary M. (French) George, the former of whom was a native of Germany, born on March 13, 1834, and who died on August 22, 1812, and the latter of whom was born, in Fairfield, county, Ohio, January 22, 1834, and is still living at her home, in Belmore, this county. John H. George, who, in his day, was one of the best-known farmers and business men, in Putnam county, was born in Kreis-Dill, Germany, the son of John and Mary (Kemper) George, parents of four children, and, in 1852, when eighteen years of age, came to America. He landed in New York and soon made his way to Ohio. He had learned wagon-making in his native land and for two years worked at this trade in Crawford county, Ohio. He went to Hancock county in the spring of 1854, where he worked at his trade, until 1862. In the meanwhile, in 1855, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary M. French, daughter of Grover French, a farmer of Irish descent, who- died in Hancock county, Ohio, in 1857, his widow sui-viving until March, 1884, when she died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George at the age of ninety years. Grover French and wife were the parents of seven children, John, a United Brethren minister; Elizabeth; Mrs. Lucinda Wiekham, of Belmore ;- George, a United Brethren minister, at Bentonville, Ohio ; Reuben ; Mary M. (Mrs. George) and Sarah. Of these only the mother of the subject of this, sketch now survives. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 3OI To John H. and Mary M. (French) George were born seven children, Genevre, who married Peter Zeller, a carpenter; Sarah A., who married L. Swaninger, and was the mother of two children : Reuben, a well-known hard- ware merchant, of Belmore, this county; Elizabeth, who married William Cook, a Putnam county farmer; Grover, who died at the age of seventeen; WilHam M., the immediate subject of this biographical sketch, now clerk of the courts of Putnam county, and Ida, who died at the ag-e of seventeen. After his marriage, John H. George continued to work at his trade in Han- cock county, as above stated, until the spring of 1862, when he came to Putnam county and bought a tract of eighty acres of land in the woods, on which he built a cabin. He had cleared about twenty acres and had placed the same under cultivation when he entered the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer In- fantry, in 1864, as a substitute, and was assigned to the Anny of the Tennes- see. He was with General Sherman in his famous march to the sea, was in a number of severe skirmishes, and fought in the last two battles in which his regiment took part as the war was drawing to a close. He was mustered out, at Louisville, Kentucky, and, at Cleveland, Ohio, received his honorable dis- charge. At the close of the war, Mr. George resumed the pursuits of peace, re-entering, with unimpaired energy and ambition, upon the interrupted task of clearing his little farm, in Putnam county. This same energy marked his course all through his life and he added to his farm holdings from time to time until he, presently, was the possessor of more than four hundred acres of well-improved land. In addition to managing his large agricultural inter- ests in this county, Mr. George found time to engage in various other busi- ness enterprises, though occasionally he met with some reverses, especially in the way of paying off securities, his well-known generosity several times having caused him losses in this direction. Running a brewery in Ottawa, also, was an enterprise in which he met with a disastrous loss, by fire. In partnership with Captain Matthias in 1891, he opened a hardware store in Belmore, in which place he owned considerable residence property. The elder George always was a Democrat and was active in the local campaigns of his party, his counsels ever having weight with the party man- agers in the county. He served two terms as justice of the peace, six years as county commissionr and, in 1880, was land appraiser. In addition to these public honors, he had filled several minor positions of public trust. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church, while his wife was a member of the Evangelical church. John H. George was a man of large influence in his neighborhood and his memory is cherished by many in the 302 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. community in which he so long and so usefully labored. In these labors he ever found a faithful helpmate in his devoted wife, and his widow, who still survives, is the object of the sincere affection of the entire Belmore neigh- borhood, all the people of which hold her in the very highest esteem. With two such parents it could hardly have been otherwise with W. M. George than that he should grow up bulwarked by habits of study and in- dustry. Reared upon the farm, under the careful training of his father, he received full instruction in the rudiments of profitable agriculture and, at the same time acquired studious habit, so that the course in the public schools served as a stimulant to further scholastic ambitions. Finishing the course in the local schools, he attended college, at Ada, Ohio, and, in 1888, began teaching school. For two years he did work in this line in the district schools of Van Buren township, his services in this capacity proving so satis- factory to the school authorities, that he was ele\'ated to the position of superintendent of the schools at Belmore. Here he served with much satis- faction to the patrons of the school for a period of three years, making an excellent reputation for himself in school circles in the county. He also, about this time, was interested, with his father, in the management of a store at Belmore. During President Cleveland's second administration, he was postmaster at Belmore, being at the same time engaged in the grocery business there. Shortly after the close of this term of service, Mr. George decided to take up farming as a definite life's work and, following out this design, engaged in active farm work in the Belmore neighborhood, in which he met with marked success. At the same time, his acquaintance over the county was growing and his earnest and useful activities, in local Democratic campaigns, began to gain the recognition of the party managers, who pres- ently found in him one of the most aggressive political forces in the county. It was fitting, therefore, that in the campaign of 1909, Mr. George should receive the nomination of his party for the office of clerk of the court. His well-recognized qualifications for the proper discharge of the duties of this office, made his election a foregone conclusion, and he took office in 191 1. The capable manner in which he handled the affairs of this important office insured his re-nomination, to succeed himself, and he was re-elected, in 1912, his term of office being due to expire, in August, 1915. In September, 1890, Mr. George was united marriage with Miss Lida Fisher, who was born near Monroeville, Indiana, June 13, 1870, the daughter of Andrew J. and Nancy (Baker) Fisher. The Fishers had moved from Indiana to Ohio, in the year 1874, and for many years, thereafter, lived in Belmore, later moving to Paulding county, where Mrs. Fisher died. Mr PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 3O3: Fisher remarried and now lives in Van Wert. Lida Fisher grew up at Bel- more and, after finishing her school course, became a teacher in the public schools of her home town, being also a teacher of music, both vocal and instrumental. In the work of the public schools, she and Mr. George, whc^ was superintendent of the Belmore schools, for some time, were closely as- sociated, and this association developed into a romance which led to the happy marriage. To William M. and Lida (Fisher) George seven children have been born, John H., who married Laura Feutermacher, and lives on a farm in Van Buren township, Putnam county; Nanna C. married Julian C. Brown and lives near Hamler, in Marion township, Henry county, Ohio; Bernice,. Bernard J., Delia, Noel and Dale are still at home and make merry the fire- side of their devoted parents, the George home, in Belmore, being the center of many social gaities. Mr. and Mrs. George are members of the Evangelical church and take- a warm interest in the various beneficences of that religious organization, as well as being active participants in such local movements as have for their object the advancement of the best interests of the community at large, and are very properly regarded as among the leaders in all good works in- this county. Mr. George is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fel- lows, in the affairs of which he takes considerable interest. CHARLES FRANCIS HOLTZHAUER. A rapid rise in the educational world has marked the career of Charles^ Francis Holtzhauer, who, although a young man in years, is now the super- intendent of the Ottawa public schools. Graduating from one of the many excellent colleges of Ohio in 1907, he has been teaching in high schools of the state since that time, and is now serving his second year as superin- tendent of the schools of Ottawa. Charles Francis Holzhauer, the son of Henry and Clarissa (Wunderly) Holzhauer, was born near Huron, Erie county, Ohio, November 26, 1881. His father was born near Amherst, Lorain county, Ohio, a son of John- Flolzhauer, who came from Hesse-Cassel, Germany. Clarissa Wunderly, the mother of Mr. Holzhauer, was born in Erie county, Ohio, and her mother was a native of Hesse-Cassel, Germany. Henry Holzhauer is now living on the farm in Erie county, Ohio, where his son, Charles F., was. born, and has made his home on this farm for many years. "304 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Charles F. Holzhauer was reared on his father's farm in Erie county, Ohio, and received his elementary education in the country schools. After graduating from the common schools he entered the Huron high school and graduated in the class of. 1903. He at once entered Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, graduating with the degree of Bachelor of Science, in the spring of 1907. In the fall of that year he began teaching, as assistant principal of the high school at Cadiz, Ohio, and remained in that school for four years. He came to Ottawa in 191 1 as principal of the high school and after holding this position for three years, was elected in the summer of 1914 to the superintendency of the Ottawa schools. This is sufficient indication that his work in the schools of Ottawa has been satis- factory m every way. It is not only a tribute to his efficiency as an instruc- tor, but also to his high character and sterling worth as a citizen. Mr. Holzhauer was married in 1908 to Bessie Simmons, who was born at Oceola, Crawford county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Ira H. and Amanda J. (Doty) Simmons. Mr. Holzhauer met his wife while they were both students at Delaware. To this union have been born two children, John Henry, who is now six years of age, and Mary Elizabeth, who is one year old. Mr. Holzhauer and his wife are active members of the Methodist Epis- copal church at Ottawa. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Ma- sons, and is now serving as senior deacon of the Ottawa lodge. HENRY CLIFTON RUHL, M. D. For more than twenty years, Henry Clifton Ruhl, M. D., has been prac- ticing his profession in Leipsic, Ohio. Born and reared in Morrow county, Ohio, he went to Michigan with his father, in 1880, and completed his elementary education in that state. Later, he became a student at the North- ern Normal University, at Ada, Ohio, and then entered the teaching profes- sion. He finally decided to become a physician, and, with this intention, took a medical course of three years, and has been in the active practice of medicine since 1894. He located in Leipsic immediately after his graduation from the medical college, and has met with excellent success in the pursuit •of his life work. He has been active in the civic life of Leipsic and is a public-spirited citizen, who can always be depended upon to support all measures for the general welfare of the community at large. Henry Clifton Ruhl, M. D., the son of Adam Henry and Louisa IIEXIiY r RT'Iir., M. D. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 3O5 '(Jacobs) Ruhl, was born in Morrow county, Ohio, December 4, 1864. His father was born in 1828, in Berlin, Germany, and came, when a lad, with his parents to Pennsylvania. Adam Henry Ruhl was a son of Jacob Henry and Emma Ruhl, and, when about seventeen years of age, came with his parents from Pennsylvania to Morrow county, Ohio, where Jacob H. Ruhl and wife lived the remainder of their lives, dying at the ages of eighty-three and eighty-seven years, respectively. The Jacobs family also came from Berlin, Germany, and located in Pennsylvania, living at New Freedom, in York •county. Louisa Jacobs' father died in that county, lacking ten days of being one hundred years old. His widow was past ninety-four years of age at the time of her death. Adam Henry Ruhl was twice married. His first wife, Louisa Jacobs, •died in 1870, and, in 1873, he married again. He removed with his family to Gratiot county, Michigan, in 1880, and there spent the remainder of his life. He was a millwright by trade, and followed that occupation until his second marriage, after which time he engaged in farming. Henry C. Ruhl, M. D., was sixteen years of age when his father went from Morrow county, Ohio, to Michigan, and lived in the latter state three years. He became a student in the Northern Ohio Normal University in 1883, and later, taught in the public schools for three years. In the fall of 1891, he entered Pulte Homeopathic Medical College, of Cincinnati, and graduated from that institution in the spring of 1894. On May 4, of that year, he began the practice of his profession, at Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio, where he has since made his home. He has built up a large practice, and at the same time has been prominent in the civic affairs of the city. Doctor Ruhl was married in July, 1894, to Anna Moore, who was born near Columbus Grove, Putnam county, and is a daughter of Samuel and Maria (Kiefer) Moore. Her parents were both natives of Pennsylvania, and were married in Richland county, Ohio. From that county the Moores came to Putnam county, and located on a farm near Columbus Grove, where Mr. Moore died at the age of seventy-six; His widow is now living at the home of Doctor Ruhl, and is past eighty years of age. Doctor Ruhl and his wife have one daughter, Neva J., who is now a college student at Delaware Ohio. ' Doctor Ruhl is active in the Democratic party in his county, and has -always taken unusual interest in its public affairs. He was elected mayor of Leipsic m 1898. He was elected to the same office in the fall of 191 1 Doctor Ruhl was a member of the school board, of Leipsic, for nine years 20 306 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. and it was during his incumbency the present high school building was erected. The doctor owns an excellent farm, near Leipsic, over which he has general supervision. The family are stanch members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Fraternally, he is a member of the order of Free and Accepted Masons and has attained to all the degrees up to and including the Knights Templar. He has been a member of the Knights of Pythias since 1888. Doctor Ruhl is a genial and whole-souled man, and has a large circle of friends and acquaintances throughout the county. WILLIAM W. DIBBLE. Prominently identified with the educational interests of the community in which he lived, William W. Dibble has been engaged in public school work in Putnam county, Ohio, for several years. Starting in before reach- ing his majority, as a teacher, he taught in order to secure money to pay his way through college, and for the past quarter of a century has been spend- ing each winter in the school room. He has taught for several years in his home county, both in the common and the high schools, and since 19 14 has been district superintendent of Liberty, Van Buren and Blanchard townships. William W. Dibble, the son of William E. and Martha Jane (Taylor) Dibble, was born on May 17, 1866, at Waterville, Lucas county, Ohio. His father's history appears elsewhere in this volume, and the reader is referred to it for information concerning the Dibble family. William W. Dibble was reared at Waterville, Ohio, until he was six- teen years of age, at which time his parents moved to the southern part of Henry county, Ohio, where his father bought a tract of timbered land, and young William took his fvill share in the arduous task of clearing the land and preparing it for cultivation. - At that time there were many wild tur- keys in the woods and small game was abundant. William W Dibble attended the high schools at Elmore, Ottawa county, Ohio, and Lindsay, Sandusky county, Ohio, when he began to teach. After teaching one term he entered the Northwestern Ohio University at Ada, and for the next three years interspersed his college education with teaching in the public schools. He also took a business course in shorthand and book- keeping at the Tri-State Business College at Toledo, Ohio, and worked in an office for one year, when he returned to teaching. He taught school for PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 307 several years in Henry and Putnam counties, before beginning teaching in the high school at Leipsic in 1909. He continued there until the spring of 1913, when he became superintendent of the schools of Liberty and Van Buren townships, and, in 1914, Blanchard township was added to his terri- tory, and the title was changed to that of district superintendent of schools, with complete jurisdiction over Liberty, Van Buren and Blanchard town- ships. He is a practical school man, who understands every phase of public school teaching and is regarded as one of the best men of the profession in Putnam county. Mr. Dibble was married in 1892 to Mary Alice Wise, who was born in Hancock county, Ohio, and is a daughter of John F. and Martha J. (Schwab) Wise. Both of her parents were born and reared in Hancock county, and now live in Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio. Mr. Dibble and his wife are loyal workers in the Methodist Episcopal church, where Mr. Dibble has been the superintendent of the Sunday school for the past five years. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. PETER A. MISSLER. A man of marked administrative ability is Peter A. Missler, the pres- ent mayor of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio. He has held this responsible position since 1908, and in 1914 was re-elected for two more years, a fact which speaks well for his worth as a citizen, and his ability as an eiecutor. He has been a life-long farmer and has lived at Glandorf since 1897. Peter A. Missler, the son of Joseph and Susannah (Willman) Missler, was born in Huron county, Ohio, in 1876. His father was a native of Ger- many, born in 1830, and, when a boy of sixteen, came to America alone and located in Huron county, Ohio, where he worked as a cooper He made barrels for wine and other liquids and built up a business which neces- sitated the employment of eight or ten men. While living in Huron county he married Susannah Willman, who was a native of Stark county, Ohio and died m Huron county in 1885. In the meantime Joseph Missler had' sent to Germany for his parents, Andrew and Elizabeth Missler, they coming to this country and living the remainder of their lives in Huron county After the death of his wife, Joseph Missler moved to Mercer county Ohio, and lived there with his son, Joseph, Jr., until his death on August 8, 1914, at the age of eighty-four years. He and his wife were the parents 3o8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of eight children, three of whom are deceased, Clara dying in infancy, Katherine dying in 1883, after reaching maturity, and Margaret, who died at the age of nineteen. The five living children are as follow: Joseph, of Mercer county, Ohio; Peter A., of Glandorf ; John A., of Glandorf; Mary, a teacher in Auglaize county, Ohio, and Elizabeth, a teacher at Sedalia, Missouri. Peter A. Missler was eight years of age when his mother died, and he then went with his father to Mercer county, and attended the college at Rensselaer, for two years. Peter A. Missler came to Glandorf in 1897 to engage in farming and has made this his life work. He has a good farm near Glandorf, where he engaged in diversified farming with a result which speaks well for his efforts. Mr. Missler is a stanch Democrat, and is now a member of the Demo- cratic central committee, of Putnam county. Pie was elected mayor of Glandorf in 1908, and has been re-elected every two years since that time. He is a stockholder and director in the Glandorf German Building & Loan Association. Peter Missler was married in 1902 to Emma Catherine EUerbrock, who was born in Glandorf, and is a daughter of John William and Jennie (Uten- dorf) EUerbrock, a sketch of whose parents may be found elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Missler are the parents of five children living and one deceased, Mary, Joseph, Edward, Otmar, Angeline and Paul, who died on August 9, 19,13, at the age of two years. Mr. Missler and his family are loyal members of the Catholic church, and are deeply interested in its welfare. HARRY ALLEN NEISWANDER, M. D. There is no class to whom greater gratitude is due, from the world at large, than the self-sacrificing, sympathetic, noble-minded men whose life work is the alleviation of suffering and administering comfort to the af- flicted — those men who, in many cases, are responsible for lengthening the span of human existence. There is no standard by which their beneficent influence can be measured. Their helpfulness is limited only by the extent of their knowledge and skill, while their power goes hand in hand with the wonderful laws of nature that spring from the very source of life itself. Some one has aptly said "He serves God best, who serves humanity most." Among the physicians and surgeons of Putnam county, who have risen to well-deserved eminence in their chosen field of endeavor, and who are serv- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. oQa ing humanity with their talents and their training, is Harry Allen Neis- wander, M. D., of Pandora, Putnam county, Ohio. Doctor Neiswander is a man who has proved' himself to be broad-minded and conscientious in the sphere to which his life and energies have been devoted. He is possessed of a- profound knowledge of the science of his profession, which has won for him a leading place among the distinguished medical men of his day and generation in Putnam county. Harry Allen Neiswander, M. D., was born on September 26, 1881, in Van Buren township, Hancock county, Ohio. He is the son. of Joshua N. and Susan (Blosser) Neiswander. Joshua N. Neiswander, the son of Mi- chael and Fanny (Geiger) Neiswander, was born on January 4, 1857, in Richland township, Allen county, Ohio. Richland township was formerly a part of Putnam county. Michael Neiswander, the son of Michael Neis- wander, Sr., was born on the Atlantic ocean en route to New York. Michael Neiswander, Sr., whose wife was Anna Ernst, was born in Berne, Switzerland, and came to America, as one of the early settlers of Allen county, Ohio, at the age of twenty-two, the year in which Michael Neis- wander, Jr., was born. Michael Neiswander, Sr., settled first in Tuscarawas county, Ohio. Subsequently, he followed the Riley creek, looking for a suitable location and homestead, which he found upon arriving at a spring in what is now Richland township, Allen county, Ohio. Michael Neiswan- der, Sr., entered land from the government and passed through all of the pioneer experiences common to his day and generation. He was accus- • tomed to drive to Sandusky, more than sixty miles away, to mill and to buy provisions. A barrel of flour cost fifteen dollars in those days. On one occasion his son Daniel was driving home through the timber in a slei<^h when a pack of wolves got on his trail. Hearing their vicious snarls and howls, he understood they were coming after him. Lashing his horses into a run, he drove for home at top speed. Arriving at the barn, he hastily un- hitched his horses, put them into the stable, locked the door and ran for the house with the wolves almost at his heels. Once in the house he was safe from, harm. When he awoke the next morning, the wolves had disappeared but he fotmd the marks of their claws on the door. On one occasion when Michael Neiswander, Sr., had been to mill in Sandusky, he happened to cross a bridge over a stream which hacf nearly overflown. As the horses stepped on the bridge, Michael observed that the planks were floating and whipping up his horses, hurried them across. So nearly afloat was the brid<.e that just as the wheels of his wagon passed over^each plank, it floated away Michael Neiswander, Sr., was the father of three sons, Daniel, Michael jr., and John.^ Daniel located in Putnam county and became a prosperous 3IO PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. farmer. He was the father of four daughters and one son. John moved to Missouri in an early day, where he reared a large family and prospered. Michael, Jr., grew to manhood on the old homestead and reared a family of four sons and three daughters, all of whom are now living except one. At one time he was very well-to-do, owning two hundred and forty acres of land besides other property. Joshua Neiswander, the father of Dr. Harry A., was the fourth child born to Michael Neiswander, Jr. He was born on the homestead in Richland township. So far as is known, Michael, Jr., had no educational advantages, except what he received from his parents. His father, however, was a well-informed man for his time, judging by the records and diaries he left, and must have been able to give his son some valuable instructions. Joshua Neiswander attended school in the old log school house, and grew to manhood under conditions much better than those which his father confronted, but still very largely of a primitive na- ture. Log cabins at that time were still the rule, although they had begun to be replaced by more commodious farm dwellings in the older settled communities. Joshua Neiswander remained with his parents until of age, after which, for about three years, he worked on a farm and spent a few months in Canada. After his return from Canada, he was married, at the age of twenty-four, to Susan Blosser, the daughter of Christian and Catherine (Thut) Blosser. The Blosser family history is to be found in the sketch of Mrs. Isaac Hilty. After his marriage, Joshua Neiswander located on a farm in Van Buren township, Hancock county, which he cleared and on which he built his home. He has always done general farming and has been very successful. Lately he has specialized in raising and feeding hogs, cat- tle and horses for the market. Of late years, he has specialized in thorough- bred Duroc hogs. He is of a mechanical turn of mind and learned the car- penter's trade, which he follows at odd times. He is a Democrat and for a great many years was township trustee. He is an ardent supporter of the Reformed Mennonite church. LL's wife is a member of the American Men- nonite church. Doctor Neiswander's mother, Susan Blosser, is the daugh- ter of Christian Blosser. He was a school teacher and met his death in a peculiar way. On his way home from school one day, he chanced to meet a young woman and stopped to converse with her. It later developed that she had smallpox. Christian Blosser caught the disease and died, as did also his father. Christian Blosser was the father of five children, of whom Doctor Neiswander's mother was next to the youngest. Joshua N. and Susan Neiswander were the parents of eleven children. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 3II three of whom died in infancy, Harry A., the subject of this sketch; Irvin, -who died in infancy; Lois, the wife of Meville Bushong, of Newstark, Ohio, who has two children, Elton and Merl; William, who died in infancy; Leo, a student in the Homeopathical Medical College at Columbus, Ohio, who jmarried Lettie Fried and has one daughter, Alice; Estella, who is a school teacher; Claud, who is principal of the high school at Arlington, Ohio; Edgar, Byron, Ralph and Una, all of whom are at home. Harry A. Neiswander, M. D., received his early education in the com- mon schools of Van Buren township. He attended the summer normal schools and also the normal school at Angola for one summer. After this, he completed his Bachelor of Science work at Ohio Northern University, graduating in 1907. Subsequently he took a position as assistant principal of the New Holland (Ohio) high school and in a few months became prin- cipal of that institution. Doctor Neiswander entered the Cleveland Homeopathical Medical College in 1908, which institution later became affiliated with the Ohio State Uni- versity. He graduated with the class of 1912. In his senior year, Doctor Neiswander was president of the Hahnemann Medical Society, a student organization. Before graduation, he saw active work with one of Cleve- land's prominent practitioners. In this way, he was specially fitted for his chosen profession. He located at Pandora in the fall of 1912, where he has since built a large and growing practice. Doctor Neiswander was married on December 25, 1907, to Rosella Spacht, of Van Buren township. She was formerly a student at Adrian College, Adrian, Michigan, and also the Ohio Northern University at Ada. She is the daughter of Jesse B. and Mary (Stonehill) Spacht, both of whom belong to pioneer families of Hancock county. Mrs. Neiswander is the eldest of four children, the others are William, who died at the age of twenty-nine; Verla and Irena, who are at home. Doctor Neiswander is a Democrat. He is health officer of Riley town- ship and Pandora. He is a member of the leading medical societies, in- cluding the Ohio State Medical Society, the Ohio State Homeopatthic Medi- cal Society and the Putnam County Medical Society. Dr. Neiswander and wife are active members of the Methodist Protestant church. They have been the parents of two sons, Allen and Harold. Doctor Neiswander is a progressive young physician, who has had all of the advantages of the latest information in medicine. He has built up a large practice in the community and a practice which he so very much de- serves because of his splendid equipment and his natural inclination toward his life profession. 3^2 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. GEORGE HENRY MERSMAN. A substantial business man of Glandorf, Putnam County, Ohio, is- George Henry Mersman, who was born on the farm where his elevator is now located. His parents, both of whom were natives of Germany, were early settlers in this county, and the Mersman family have been active in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community, for many years. Mr. Mersman started to work in the woolen-mill in Glandorf, when a young man, and for more than a quarter of a century was interested in this business, while at the same time he carried on general farming. He has been inter- ested in the elevator business in Glandorf since 1892, though he is still devoting some of his attention to farming. George Henry Mersman, the son of Henry and Mary E. (Recker) Mersman, was born on February 18, 1851, at Glandorf, Putnam county,. Ohio. His father was born in Glandorf, Germany, and came to this county when a young man, where he worked on the Ohio canal, which was bemg. built through this section of the state. Later, he was a partner with Mr. Myers, in the saw-mill business, and still later was engaged in the same business with Mr. Drerup. Tn addition to operating the saw-mill, he had a grist-mill which was run by steam power, the grinding being done with an old-fashioned burr stone. Mr. Mersman continued the saw and grist-mill business, in Glandorf, as long as he lived. In addition to his. mills he operated a general store, packed and shipped pork and was a business man, interested in many ventures. He and his brother, Barney, were in partner- ship in the pork-packing business. Mary E. Recker, the wife of Henry Mers- man, was born in Hanover, Germany, and was a daughter of Nicholas Henry Recker and wife. The mother died in the old country, and her father married again. When Mary E. Recker was a girl of five years, her father and family came to America and located at Eort Wayne, Indiana, but lived there only a short time, when they moved to Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio,. where her father farmed during the remainder of his life. George Henry Mersman lived at home until he was grown. As a young man, he worked in the woolen mills at Glandorf, and continued there for twenty-eight years. He began his mill work by operating a carding machine, and later became a spinner. At the same time that he was working in the- woolen mills, he was engaged in farming. Mr. Mersman built an elevator at Glandorf, in 1892, just after the railroad was built through the village, and leased it out for one year. Since that time he has had active charge of the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 3I3 elevator himself, and has built up a large and lucrative business in .the buying and shipping of grain. Mr. Mersman was married on April 21, 1875, to Anna M. Halker, whO' was born in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, and is the daughter of William and Louise (Vogeding) Halker. Her parents were both natives of Germany, came to Glandorf, Ohio, early in its history, and located in the midst of a dense forest. Her father was a life-long farmer. Mr. aiyl Mrs. Mersman were the parents of three children, two of whom, Louise and John, died in infancy. Anna E. is the wife of Anthony Kohls. Mr. Kohls was born at Glandorf and reared at New Cleveland, this county. He is a son of Tony and Theresa (Klinkhammer) Kohls. Mr. and Mrs. Kohls have four chil- dren, Anna, Linus, Clarence and Louisa. Mr. Kohls and Mr. Mersman are- operating this business together. Mr. Mersman has given his hearty support to the Democratic party, and has been a member of the Glandorf council ever since the village was incorporated, with the exception of two years. He and his wife are loyal members of St. John's Catholic church, at Glandorf. He has a farm of one hundred and twenty acres, twenty-five acres of which is good timber land,, and is now doing a general farming business. Since purchasing this tract of farm land, Mr. Mersman has installed many changes and made numerous improvements. PETER D. BIXEL, M. D. It is not always easy to discover and define the hidden forces that have moved a life of ceaseless activity and large professional success. Little more can be done than to note their manifestations in the career of the person under consideration. The life of the physician and public-spirited man of affairs, whose name appears above, affords a striking example of well-defined purpose — his ability to make that purpose subserve, not only his own ends, but the good of his fellow men, as well. Peter D. Bixel, M. D., has lonp- held prestige in the calling that requires for its basis strong mentality and intellectual attainments of a high order, supplemented by rigid professional training and a thorough masteiy of technical knowledge with the skill to apply the same, without which one cannot hope to arise above mediocrity. In his chosen field of endeavor Doctor Bixel has achieved a notable success, which has been duly recognized and appreciated throughout the section of the state in which he lives. In addition to his long and creditable career. .314 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. in one of the most useful and exacting professions, he has proved an honor- able member of the body politic, and in every relation of life has never fallen below the dignity of true manhood or in any way resorted to the methods which might invite censure. Peter D. Bixel, M. D., was born on April 21, 1865, in Allen county, Ohio. He is the son of Abraham and Magdalene (Schumacher) Bixel, Abraham Bixel was born on May 14, 1843, in Holmes county, Ohio, and was the son of Peter and Fannie (Diller) Bixel. Peter Bixel and wife were both natives of Berne, Switzerland. Peter Bixel was born on January I, 1795, and came to America, April 29, 1824, arriving July 21, 1824. He came, first, to Wayne county, and on August 2, 1824, went to Holmes county, where he married Fannie Diller. They had sixteen children, of whom Fannie was the second eldest and the eldest living child. The family -came from Holmes to Allen county, near Bluffton, when the eldest child was eighteen or nineteen years of age. In Holmes county, Peter Bixel entered land from the government, and here he remained for about fifteen years, selling out, in 1846, and coming to Allen county, settling one mile north of Bluffton. He was a very pro- gressive farmer and a hard worker. He owned, at one time, nearly one thousand acres of land. He was a fine type of the American citizen and very liberal. He had a fine Christian character and was one of the first members of the Mennonite church, in his community. He lived all his life on the old homestead, in Allen county. Fannie Diller, his wife, was a native of Switzerland and married Peter Bixel, in Wayne county, Ohio. 'Abraham Bixel moved, with his parents, to Allen county when but three years of age. It was there that he received his early education in the typical log-cabin school house. Although his educational advantages were limited, he became a self-made man, and being a careful reader, greatly ad- vanced himself by home study. When he was twenty-one years of age, May 5, 1864, he was man-ied to Magdalene Schumacher, the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Suter) Schumacher. After his marriage, he remained on the old homestead, until 1878, when he sold out and moved to the old Peter Schumacher farm, in Richland township, Allen county. This he sold, in 1903, and then retired, moving to Pandora, where he now lives. Abra- ham Bixel was one of sixteen children. His wife, Magdalene, was also one of sixteen children, a remarkable coincidence. Abraham Bixel was a very successful farmer and owned more than two hundred acres. He and his wife were the parents of twelve children. Dr. Peter D. ; David C. ; Sarah •who died at the age of three; Noah, Elizabeth, John, who is dean of the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 315 ■Conservatory of Music, at Ottawa, Kansas; Samuel, Mary, Lydia, Adam, Menno and Susan. Doctor Bixel spent his boyhood days on the old home place, in Allen county. Here he received his early education, completing his course in the common school at the ag-e of twenty-one. He then went to work in a store, at Bluffton, and remained here for six years. When twenty-seven years of age he and Benjamin Schumacher bought the firm of C. S. Day & Company, dealers in groceries, queensware, where they also became the proprietors of a bakery. They stayed in this business for two years, when the firm be- came Bixel & Welty. This firm continued for two years longer and then the store was sold. Peter D. Bixel then took a preparatory course in medicine at the Uni- versity of Cincinnati. The next year he entered the Eclectic Medical College, at Cincinnati, graduating in 1901, where he stood next to the head of his class in surgery. After graduating, he located at Bluffton, Ohio, and went into partnership with Doctor Sutter. This partnership continued for nine months, when Doctor Bixel moved to Pandora, where he now resides and where he has established a large and growing practice. In addition to his university preparatory course, he has pursued his studies and kept up to the demands of the profession by at- tending lectures at Chicago and Cincinnati. Doctor Bixel is a member of the National Eclectic Medical Association and the Ohio State Eclectic Medi- cal Association, the Northwestern Eclectic Medical Association and the American Medical Association, the Ohio State Alopathic Medical Associa- tion and the Northwestern Ohio Alopathic Medical Association, as well as the Putnam County Medical Association. He is ex-president of the Northwestern Ohio Eclectic Medical Associa- tion and twice secretary of that association. Likewise he is ex-secretary of the Putnam County Medical Association. Peter D. Bixel, M. D., was married on December 19, 1889, to Elizabeth Steiner, daughter of Christian and Magdalene Lugibihl Steiner, the family history of whom is to be found in the sketch of Peter Steiner, contained elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Bixel's parents were pioneers in Putnam county. Mrs. Bixel was born on November i, 1867, and reared one mile east of Pandora. She received her education in the common schools of Riley township. To Doctor and Mrs. Bixel have been born three children, Stella has been a student at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, and graduated in the class of 1915. She is a graduate of the Pandora high school. Munson Rus- 3^6 PUTNAM COUNTY. OHIO. sell graduated from Pandora high school and is now a student at Bluffton College. Madeline is a student in high school. Peter D. Bixel, M. D., has been a life-long Republican. For six years he was health officer of Riley township. He was also a member of the board of education for eight years, and president of the board for four years. Doctor Bixel and family are members of the Great Mennonite church, of which he is an ardent supporter. The subject of this sketch is one of Putnam county's most progressive professional men and stands high in the community in a professional and personal way. He is a most careful and conscientious physician and like- wise a public-spirited citizen, taking an active part in e\'erything that might result in the betterment of the community. Altogether. Doctor Bixel is a very valuable citizen to the county where he has spent practically all his life. PETER P. STEINER. Specific mention is made in the following paragraphs of one of the worthy citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, and one who has figured in the growth and development of the financial and commercial interests of this favored section, whose interests have been identified with its progress, con- tributing, in a definite measure, in his particular spheres of action to the well-being of the community in which he resides and to the advancement of its normal and legitimate growth. Earnest purpose of tireless energy, combined with mature judgment and e\ery-day common sense, have been among his most prominent characteristics. He has merited the respect and esteem which are accorded him by all with whom he has had social or busi- ness relations. Peter P. Steiner was born on December 28, 1845, in Richland town- ship, Allen county, Ohio, the son of Peter and Barbara (Schumacher) Steiner, the former born in Switzerland, on a farm, October 7, 181 1, died in Richland township, .\Ilen county, three miles west of Bluffton, August 22, 1870, at the age of fifty-nine years. Peter Steiner, Sr., was the son of Christian Steiner and wife, the latter's maiden name being Luginbihl. Christian Steiner was born in 1770, in Switzerland, and died on his farm in Richland township, Allen county, in January, 1846. In addition to being a farmer in Switzerland, he was a preacher, and followed this calling after setding in America in 1836. He and his wife had six children when they PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 2>^7 came to America, as follow: Christian, John, Ulrich, Peter, Barbara and Elizabeth. Christian, the eldest son, had preceded the rest of the family by two years. He settled in Wayne county and, like his father, was a minister. Another brother, Ulrich, also took up the ministry, and all were faithful members of the Mennonite church. Christian Steiner, Sr., died ten years after coming to America. Peter Steiner was the fourth child of his parents. He was married at the age of twenty-five, just before coming to America, to Barbara Schuh- macher, who was the daughter of Christian and Barbara Schuhmacher. Both she and her father were natives of Basel, Switzerland. Her parents and four children came to America at the same time the Steiner family came. The children of this family were Peter, who was a minister; John, Christian and Barbara, the mother of Peter P., the subject of this sketch. Peter Steiner, and the remainder of the family, settled in what is now Rich- land township, Allen county, which was then a part of Putnam county. They entered land from the government, for which they paid one dollar an acre. The Steiners had been considered well-to-do in Switzerland, were prosperous farmers and had lived on the same farm, "The Buchwald," for seven suc- cessive generations. This was a large farm, probably consisting of two or three hundred acres. Christian Schuhmacher, the father of Peter P. Steiner's mother, was a miller in Switzerland and also a wine merchant. After entering his land from the government, built a log cabin and proceeded to clear his land It is related that he used to haul grain to mill at Sandusky, Tiffin and Maumee, forty or fifty miles away, with an ox team. He could only haul about fifteen or twenty bushels at. a time, on account of the bad condition of the roads, and it usually took a week. At all times he would have to carry an ax, with which to cut his way through fallen trees. It was on the farm that he established, by dint of energy and push, that his eleven children were reared, all of whom grew to man and womanhopd. The children were as follow: Catherine, deceased, wife of Christian Gratz; Christian; Barbara, deceased, wife of Peter D. Diller; Mary Ann, deceased, wife of Chris Hilty; Elizabeth; David, who died at the age of twenty-one; Peter P. ; Mattie, who died at the age of twenty; Benjamin died at the age of fifty-five, in 1895: Fannie, who died single, and Susan, deceased, wife of Benjamin Hilty. They are no«- all deceased with the exception of Christian, Elizabeth and Peter P. The mother of these children died about 1885. His father, at the time of his death, owned four hundred and twenty-six acres of land and was known as a good farmer. He was a Democrat and a very earnest supporter of the Mennonite church. 3l8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. It was on the old homestead farm in Richland township, Allen county^ that Peter P. Steiner spent his boyhood days. Here he attended the district, schools and, of course, helped his father on the farm, until twenty-two ^ years of age. Peter P. .Steiner was married on March 7, 1867, and remained on the home place until the following fall, when he moved to Riley township, Putnam county, on a place owned by his father. This farm of one hun- dred and twenty acres, he later purchased from his father. It was in a virgin state and Mr. Steiner, like his father, cleared the land and built his cabin. He felled the first tree on the site of his new home on October 28,. 1867. He cleared two acres and on December 13, with his bride, moved to his new home. He had previously dug a well. His wife was Elizabeth Luginbihll, the daughter of Christian Luginbihll and wife. Mrs. Steiner was a native of Riley township, Putnam county, and her parents were natives of Switzerland. She died on September 20, 1905. She was a splendid Chris- tian woman, a devoted wife and loving mother. She was the mother of four children, Helen, the wife of P. D. Amstutz, the postmaster of Pandora, who have three children, R. Mendelssohn, Melvina and Hilda W.; Martha,, the twin sister of Helen, who died in infancy; Noah, who married Eliza- beth Luginbihll, and has five children, Melvin, Eulalia, William, Waldo and Earl D., and Mary, who died at the age of twenty-seven. She attended Findlay College and was a teacher of music. She was a fine Christian, young woman, very popular and highly esteemed in the community. After clearing up his farm, Peter P. Steiner continued to farm until 1898, when he moved to Pandora. The following spring he entered the milling business, the firm name being Steiner, Hilty & Schuhmacher. The firm name now is Steiner, Hilty & Kempf, Mr. Kempf being the bookkeeper. Mr. Steiner has continued in the milling business up to the present time. He was elected president of the firm and has since continued to hold this office. In addition to his other holdings, Mr. Steiner has accumulated considerable town property. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' Banking Company. Mr. Steiner is a Democrat. He is one of the main supports of the Mennonite church and has been a deacon in that church for the past forty years. He is one of the most substantial citizens of Riley township and Pandora. He is influential and highly respected and is a fine type of the present-day Christian gentleman. Mr. Steiner deserves great credit for his many accomplishments. He has toiled early and late, but he has the satisfaction of knowing now that he has always toiled to good purpose. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 3I9. FRED H. ELLERBROCK. The Ellerbrock family have been residents of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, since 1836. In that year the grandfather of Fred H. Ellerbrock came from Germany and located in this county, when practically the entire county was covered with a dense forest. In fact, it was only a few years after the county was organized that the Ellerbrock family became permanent residents. They have taken an active part in the life of this community, from earliest pioneer times, and the various members of this family are highly respected in the community where they live. Fred H. Ellerbrock, the son of Fred and Lizette (Wischmeyer) Eller- brock, was born September 25, 1882, at Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio His father was born, in Ottawa township, in this county, near Glandorf,. and was a son of Herman Ellerbrock, who was born in Hanover, Germany,. and came to America, about 1836, where at once located on the farm near Glandorf, in Putnam county. There he spent the remainder of his life. Fred Ellerbrock, Sr., was reared on his father's farm, at Glandorf, and, upon reaching his maturity, married Lizette Wischmeyer. She was born at Hunteberg, Oznabruck, Germany, and was a daughter of Henry Wisch- meyer and wife. She came here in her girlhood days with her sister, while her father later came from the Fatherland and spent his declining years^ in Glandorf. Fred Ellerbrock, Sr., was a life-long farmer, first locating- in Pleasant township and later, near Glandorf. He was twice married, his first wife being Mary Borgelt, who died, leaving two children, William and Mary. To his second marriage were born six children, three sons and three daughters, Henry; Lucy, the wife of Henry Karkhoff; Fred, of Glan- dorf; Bernard; Lena Frances, living, and Louis, who died in early childhood^ The father of these children died in July, 1913. His widow is now living near Glandorf. Fred H. Ellerbrock was reared on his father's farm near Glandorf, and educated in the public schools of his home neighborhood. He, in partnership with Charles B. Ellerbrook, in 1910, bought the saloon at Glandorf, which they have since operated in partnership, conducting the business in a clean and orderly manner. Mr. Ellerbrock was married in May, 1908, to Dora Kaufman, who was born, at New Cleveland, Ohio, and is the daughter of William and Catherine (Schmenk) Kaufman. Her father was a life-long farmer, at New Cle^'eland. Mr. Ellerbrock and his wife are the parents of three children: Marie, Norbert and Alma. 3-0 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Ellerbrock and his family are members of the Catholic church, at Glandorf, and he belongs to the St. John's and Ss. Peter and Paul's Aid ■societies. WARREN F. REED, M. D. The late Warren F. Reed, M. D., was a resident of Putnam county, Ohio, from the spring of 1867 until the spring of 1913. For many years iie was one of the leading practitioners of the county, and was also inter- ■ested in the political life of the county as well. During the twenty years jjreceding his death, he was president of the Bank of Ottawa, although he continued to practice his profession until the time of his decease. When a young man he enlisted for service in the Civil War, and made a notable record in that terrible conflict. Doctor Reed was a well-known man, of -broad character, and most kindly disposition. He was unassuming in man- ner, devoted to his profession and faithful in the discharge of every duty which came before him. The late Warren F Reed was born near Lima, Ohio, November 22, 1839, and died at his home, in Ottawa, March 28, 1913. He was a son of Manuel and Elizabeth (O'Harr) Reed. His father was a native of Trum- bull county, Ohio, and became a resident of Allen county, Ohio, as early as 1834, purchasing a tract of one hundred and sixty acres of government land in that year, near Lima. He married Elizabeth O'Harr, a daughter of Arthur O'Harr, one of the pioneers of Franklin county, Ohio. Manuel Reed was a farmer and carpenter, was a man of quiet and unostentatious manner and exerted a beneficial influence in the community where he resided. His ancestors were pioneers of Pennsylvania. The O'Harrs were descended from an old Scottish family, a number of representatives of which settled in Pennsylvania early in the history of that state. Doctor Reed was educated in the district schools of Allen county and later graduated from the Lima high school. When a young man, he began the study of medicine, under Doctor Harper, of Lima, and after returning from the war, he completed his medical education in the University of Mich- igan, from which institution he graduated in 1866. He then entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons, of New York City, and, in the spring ■of 1867, began the practice of his profession in the town of Kalida, Putnam county, Ohio, where he lived until 1890. In that year he moved to Ottawa, having been elected to the oflice of county auditor on the Republican ticket. ZV A>J*J^'%=/A<- V PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 321 His election was a striking tribute to his worth, as a citizen, in view of the fact that the county was very strongly Democratic. Doctor Reed was ap- pointed assignee of the Ottawa Exchange Bank in 1894, and in July of that year, in partnership with I. H. Kahle, of Glandorf, and W. H. Harper, Jr., of Lima, he reorganized the Bank of Ottawa, and was president of that financial institution until his death, in the spring of 19 13. In addition to his business and official duties. Doctor Reed continued the practice of medicine during all these years. He was a member of the Northwestern Medical Society, the Putnam County Medical Society and ■Ohio State Medical Society. He was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and had attained to the chapter, council and commandery degrees. Doctor Reed was married in 1873, to Clyde Gordon, the daughter of Judge John H. and Mrs. Jane C. (Perry) Gordon. To this union four children were born, Mary, Nellie, Gordon, who died at the age of seventeen, and one child, who died in infancy. John H. Gordon, the father of Mrs. Reed, was a native of Pennsyl- vania, and was reared to manhood in that state. He was largely a self- educated man, and came to Ohio early in his manhood and settled in Butler county, where he married Mrs. Jane C. Perry. To this union five daughters were born, Ruth, deceased, who was the wife of Edward Dunn, of Indian- apolis, Indiana; Rebecca J., the wife of W. C. G. Krauss, of Ottawa, Ohio; Zella, the wife of George D. Kinder, of Ottawa; Clyde, the wife, of Doctor Reed, and Mrs. Minerva Hornaday, now the matron of the Soldiers' Home, at Xenia, Ohio. Mrs. Gordon, by a previous marriage, had one daughter, Mary P., who became the wife of James Johnson, of Indianapolis, Indiana. Mr. Gordon taught school, in Ohio, for several years, after coming to this state, and made an excellent record as an instructor. He was especially proficient in mathematics and made this branch of study a specialty. He served three terms as recorder of Butler county, Ohio, and also engaged in farming and in the livery business at Hamilton, Ohio. In 1856 Mr. Gordon moved his family to Putnam county, and for some years thereafter was engaged in the manufacture of lumber, but later, turned his attention to con- tracting, building and the making of stone roads. He was elected to the office of probate judge for two terms, served two terms as mayor of Ottawa, and was a justice of the peace for several years. In this latter office, Mr. ■Gordon always used a reasonable effort to effect an amicable adjustment of difficulties without bringing the cause in dispute to trial. He had a deep dislike for litigation, on account of the bad feelings which were usually 21 322 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. aroused by a trial. A man of strictest morality and integrity, he enjoyed the confidence of the community to the fullest extent, and would often suffer a wrong rather than commit one. While serving as probate judge, he fre- quently refused to collect fees, feeling that the people were too poor to be taxed for his services. Liberal to a fault, his charities were widely dispensed,, and in consequence he never succeeded in accumulating great wealth. Mr- Gordon was a stanch Democrat, but during the Civil War, he was an ardent Union man and did much to induce the young men of his county to volun- teer. By reason of an accident, in which he lost an arm when a young man,, he was rendered ineligible for military duty. His life was one of high aims and in his death Putnam county lost one of its most prominent and valued citizens. Doctor Reed was a member of the One Hundred and Fifty-first Regi- ment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and although he had many narrow escapes,, he returned home after the close of the war without injury or without im- pairment of his health. He was a keen business man and an executive of marked ability. He was president of the building commission, who had charge of the erection of the present Putnam county court house, and rendered valuable and efficient service while the seat of justice was being erected. It may be assumed that Doctor Reed was a man of unusual attain- ments, by reason of the fact that he took such an active part in the life of his community. His career, extending over nearly half a century, was fraught with great good to his county, and at his death he was sincerely mourned by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. THOMAS HARVEY ROWER. The Rower family came to Putnam county, Ohio, in 1849, at which, time Frederick Rower, the great-grandfather of Thomas Harvey Rower, came to this country from Saxony and located in Franklin county, at which place he died. For more than sixty years this family has been identified with the history of the county, and has seen it emerge from its primitive- state to the prosperous county which it is today. Thomas H. Rower was. a school teacher in his younger days, then was cashier of the First National. Bank of Leipsic for a time, but since 1907 has been a partner of W. F. Stevenson in general insurance, bonds, loans and real estate. Thomas Harvey Rower, the son of Lewis A. and Mary E. (Begg). PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 323 Rower, was born January 9, 1878, in Jackson township, three and one-half miles west^ of KaHda, along the Big Auglaize river. His father, who was the son of John and Nancy Rower, was born in 1851, on the same farm. John Rower was the son of Frederick Rower, who was born in Dresden, Saxony, in 1 779, and came to America in 1 799, and located in Pennsylvania, later crossing the mountains and locating on a farm in Franklin county, Ohio, in 1812, where he died in 1826. His wife, Elizabeth (Long) Rower, died in 1846. He was one of the first pioneer settlers to make his home- coming in 1849 and literally carved and drained a home out of the swampy forests. The pioneer experiences of this sterling German-American citizen would make interesting reading. Lewis A. Rower was only a child when his father died at the age of thirty-two. His mother later married John Rager, and moved to Franklin county, and there Lewis A. grew to manhood and married Mary E. Begg, February 11, 1875. She was born in Franklin county, a daughter of John and Mary Begg, who came from Cumbernauld, Scotland, in 1844, and lo- cated in Frankli-n county. The Begg family lived in Franklin county most of their lives, but about the time of the war lived for two years in Putnam county, after which they returned to Franklin county, and later to Allen and Putnam counties, where they spent the remainder of their days. After Lewis A. Rower was married he moved back to the old Rower home in Putnam county, west of Kalida, and farmed there until his death in 1886. He died at the age of thirty-five, the same age as his father at the time of the latter's death. Lewis A. Rower left his widow with five children, John, who died in infancy; Thomas H., of Leipsic; Mary Janet, of Kalida, Ohio; Lewis Edson, of Kalida, Ohio; Philip A., of Kalida, Ohio; Mabel A., the wife of Rudolph Raabe, of Ft. Jennings, Ohio. The widow remained on the farm until 1913, when she moved into Kalida, where she now makes her home. Thomas H. Rower was reared on the farm and remained there until he was twenty years of age. He became a student in the Western Ohio Normal School at Middle Point, Ohio, in the fall of 1898, and remained there until he graduated in the spring of 1900. The following year he taught in the public schools of Leipsic and for the next four years was the superintendent of the schools at Hamler, Ohio. After the close of his last year in Hamler, in the spring of 1905, he returned to Leipsic and became the cashier of the First National Bank. He remained with this bank until its voluntary liquidation two years later, and then formed a partnership with Walter S. Stevenson in the insurance, stocks, bonds, loans and real 3-24 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. estate business. This house has built up an extensive business and is now one of the substantial firms of the city. Mr. Rower was married on June 15, 1904, to Annetta Wynn, who was born in Germantown, Pennsylvania, and is a daughter of Isaac and Mar- garet (Wrightly) Wynn. Both Mrs. Rower's parents were members of old and highly-respected Philadelphia families, her father being a cousin of ex-Postmaster-General Robert Wynn. Members of family of Mr. and Mrs. Wynn were, Ernest, deceased; Ervin, a resident of Philadelphia, Penn- sylvania, and Annetta, wife of the subject of this sketch. Mr. Wynn died when Mrs. Rower was an infant and her mother later married Rev. W. H. Hyatt, a Presbyterian minister, and has since lived in a number of places, as his work took him from one city to another. Mrs. Rower is a fine musician and has taught instrumental music. Mr. and Mrs. Rower are the parents of four children, Margaret Eloise, Mary Annette, Helen Lucile and Alfred Wynn. Mr. Rower is independent in politics, and takes an intelligent interest in the current issues of the day. He has been president of the Leipsic board of education since the beginning of 1914. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, and he and his wife are active workers in the Presby- terian church, in which he has been an elder for several years. HOMER R. DAY. One of the most illustrious, as well as one of the oldest, families in America, is the Day family, of which the gentleman whose name is noted above, a popular merchant, at Columbus Grove, Putnam county, Ohio, is an honorable representative of the present generation. To go into all the various ramfications of the Day family in America, or to set out in detail the most salient points in the lives of the numerous representatives of this family, who have rendered distinguished service to their country, would require a book larger, perhaps, than this volume and the biographer, keeping within the proper limitations prescribed in the compilation of a work of this character, must content himself with a mere side light on the beginnings of the family which will serve as an introduction to the present generation, and then conne himself to a brief biography of the gentleman whose name appears as the caption of this interesting sketch, the ninth in direct line of descent from Robert Day, the first of his name to settle in America. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 325 Those who are interested in the ampler history of the Day family are re- ferred to the Day Book, one of the most monumental and painstaking works of genealogical research ever printed in this country and which tontains the lineage of the Days far back beyond the time the first of the name in this country reached America, early in the seventeenth century. The Day Book traces the present family of Days, in Putnam county, of which Homer R. Day, merchant, at Columbus Grove, is perhaps the best-known local representative, back to the year 1680, in which year Robert Day arrived in Boston, from England, one of a party of earnest colonists, numbering one hundred or more, who came to this country, under the leadership of the Reverend Hooker, to find new homes. This party pene- trated the wilderness and founded the town of Hartford, Connecticut, Robert Day taking no small part in the strenuous labors of these colonists. The majority of the Days, in the earlier history, were ministers of the Gospel or farmers, and in whatever relation they served their fellow men, they did their duty as they saw it. The Rev. Jeremiah Day, sixth in line from Robert Day, was president of Yale College, from 181 7 to 1846, and George Day, who wrote the Day Book, so well known to all genealogists, was also president of Yale for many years. The late Alfred H. Day, whose name for so many years was literally a household word in the neighborhood of Columbus Grove, by reason of his long connection with the mercantile inter- ests of that city, was the eighth in line from the Robert Day above mentioned ; his father, the venerated Reverend Alvin Day, second, having been a son of the Reverend Jeremiah Day, referred to above as president of Yale for so long a period. There are many biographies of the Reverend Alvin Day extant, to any one of which the reader, curious for further information, is referred. Sufficient here to say that he was born in Wilberham, Massachu- setts, married Anna Maria Stebbins and died December 3, i860, his widow surviving, until September 7, 1867. To the Reverend Alvin and Anna Maria (Stebbins) Day thirteen chil- dren were born, of whom the late Alfred H. Day, father of Homer R., was the seventh in order of birth, the others being Harrison C, Nelson, Gilford, Lovina, Sandford, George, Olive Maria, Mary Azubah, Alvira, Jane Eliza, Walter S. and Alvin C. Alfred H. Day, who for many years was a merchant, at Columbus Grove, and whose death on March 24, 191 1, was so sincerely mourned thougrhout this whole section, was born at Wilberham, Massachusetts, January 25, 1840, the son of the Reverend Alvin and Anna Maria (Stebbins) Day, the former of whom was one of the most distinguished Baptist ministers of his day. 3^6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Alfred attended school at Wilberham until he was sixteen years of age, when he decided to come west. Starting out alone, he proceeded to Rock- port, Illinois, where he hved for a period of two years, attending school during the winter and making his time further serviceable by clerking in a local store where he no doubt laid the foundation for his later mercantile success. He then moved to Lima, Ohio, where he was for some time en- gaged in a clerical capacity in a grain warehouse and, in 1861, came to Putnam county, locating in Columbus Grove, where for two years he en- gaged in the grain business with such success that, in 1863, he was able to purchase the general merchandise store of J. P. Jones, consisting mostly of groceries, which was located in a frame building on the west side of the street. This was his first start in the dry-goods business, in which he later became so successful. About the year 1872, Mr. Day moved this frame struc- ture and erected in its stead a fine brick building, in which he conducted his store with so much success that his business outgrew its quarters and it became necessary to enlarge the store capacity. To this end, in 1883, he enlarged the old store and erected the fine building which still stands a monument to his energy, the store which he so long conducted now being under the management of his son. There was a reason for the success which attended the efforts of the elder Day. He was a good business man, level-headed and cool, possessing excellent judgment and had a rare sense of values. In addition to this, he was always on duty, being at the store early and late, and was a master of detail. Mr. Day erected, in 1873 in Columbus Grove, one of the finest residences in the town, which is still standing, a home of unusual beauty and good taste. In the same year he built the Grove House, now known as the Witt Hotel, in Columbus Grove, and also for some time held an interest in the grain elevator in his home town. He watched his business grow with pride and, in 1893, he took into the store, as a partner, his son, Homer R. Day, who has since been con- tinuously active in the direction of the business, and who, since his father's retirement, in 1906, has been the sole owner. About five years after his retirement, at the age of seventy-two, Mr. Day passed on to his reward and many there were in this county who mourned his demise. Alfred H. Day was a loveable man, of excellent habits, unassuming and plain-spoken, of sterling character, dependable in all his relations in life and a power in his community, his death being a distinct loss to the town. Not only was he unusually active in the mercantile life of Columbus Grove, but he paid close attention to the community's civic interests and was always interested in any movement which had, as its object, the advancement of the PUTNAM COUNTY, OlilO. 327 public welfare. He was a Republican and took a good citizen's part in political affairs, his wise counsel and sound judgment being of much force in the deliberations of the local party managers. For sixteen years he was treasurer of Pleasant township, and for years was also corporation treasurer of Columbus Grove, besides being a member of the town council and the school board, in all these duties giving the same studious attention to the public's business as he gave to his own personal affairs. He was a devoted member of the Presbyterian church, as are all the members of his family, being prompt in his attendance upon the services of the church and a liberal contributor to the various beneficences of the same. Alfred H. Day was united in marriage, in 1865, to Ada L. Pease, who was born in Monson, Massachusetts, and who is now living with her chil- dren. To this union three children were born, Rose E., who married Dr. Frank H. Pugh and lives at Bryan, Ohio; Clyde, who died in infancy, and Homer R., the immediate subject of this interesting biographical sketch. Homer R. Day, who was born at Columbus Grove, April 9, 1873, son of Alfred H. and Ada L. (Pease) Day, received his youthful education in the schools of his native town and, upon completing the course there, took a supplemental course in the business college, at Poughkeepsie, New York, where he received his business training and from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1893, after which he returned home and entered business with his father, who took him as a partner that year. This mutually pleasant and profitable arrangement continued until the year 1906, when the elder Day retired, turning all interests over to his son, since which time the latter has been sole owner and has -continued the wise policies of his father with such careful direction that the business is continuing to grow in the most satisfactory fashion. In addition to his commercial interests, Mr. Day finds time to give his share of attention to public affairs, in which he naturally takes a deep interest. He has been a member of the board of public affairs for the past seven years, served for two terms as treasurer of the township and also for two terms as a member of the school board. He is also a direc- tor of the Exchange Bank of Columbus Grove. As was his father, he is a Republican, and his counsels carry weight with the party managers in Putnam county; by reason of his sound judgment and excellent executive ability. He has made himself a most valuable power for good in the com- munity and commands the highest respect of all throughout the entire section of the county where his name and that of his father, before him, are so well known and so highly regarded. A man of unquestionable honesty, he believes in the application of sound principles to the conduct of both 328 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. public and private business and is an earnest advocate of all measures which look to the betterment of the social, moral or civic conditions of the cpm- munity in which he lives. Homer R. Day was united in marriage on April 25, 1897, to Miss- Winifred Rice, who was born at Ada, Ohio, the daughter of John F. and Jennie (Hemphill) Rice, members of old families of that section of the state, and to this union four children have been born, Aline, born on March 27, 1898; Jeannette, born on January 7, 1900; Mildred, born on March 15, 1902, and Fred R., born on June 3, 1905, and who died on December 15, 1907. The three youngsters, in the pleasant Day home, keep things lively there and are the delight of the lives of their devoted parents. Mr. and Mrs. Day are members of the Presbyterian church and take an active part in the beneficences of that organization, as well as being devoted in their attention to all movements that seek to better mankind. MRS. ADDIE LILLIAN (HALL) ZAHREND. A well-known woman, of Putnam county, Ohio, who was born and reared in Allen county, is Mrs. Addie Lillian (Hall) Zahrend. Her hus- band was a prominent business man of this county for many years, and was engaged in the lumber business, at Leipsic, at the time of his death, in the spring of 1905. He was a man of high character, a thorough Christian gentleman, a leader in all reform movements. Since his death, Mrs. Zahrend has been devoting her time and attention to the rearing of the children who were left in her care. She is a woman of refinement and culture, deeply devoted to her domestic life. Mrs. Addie Lillian (Hall) Zahrend was born at Gilboa, Putnam county Ohio, December 22, 1861. She is a daughter of John F. and Nancv lane (Hoagland) Hall. " Mrs. Zahrend spent her early childhood at Gilboa and, when fi^•e vears of age, moved with her parents to Bluffton, Allen county, Ohio where she was educated and lived until her marriage. She was married June ^c 1885, to John Carl Zahrend, and to this union six children were born Alartha Mane, Robert Franklin, Eugene Hall, John Carroll, Howard Lewis and Charlotte Lucile. Martha Marie was married, February 15, 1910 to Charles M. Harris, of Leipsic, Ohio, and now lives in Gore county, Kansas Mr and Mrs. Harris have three sons, Harold, Eugene and Charles Robert JOHN G. ZAIIREXL). PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 329 Franklin married Margaret Cotter, of Philadelphia, October 16, 1909, and now lives in Wayne, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. Eugene Hall was married, December 17, 19 13, to Elizabeth Doyle, of Bryn Mawr, Pennsyl- vania, where he now resides. Eugene and his wife have one daughter, Dorothy Elizabeth. The three younger children, John, Howard and Char- lotte, are still living with their mother and attending the public schools of Leipsic. John Carl Zahrend was born in Mecklenburg Schwerin, Germany, June 22, 1858, and was the son of Herman and Minnie (Henning) Zahrend. Herman Zahrend was engaged in farming in Germany and in 1870, came to- America and located at Liberty Center, Henry county. Upon coming to this country, Herman Zahrend engaged in railroad work and later resumed farming near Napoleon, Henry County, Ohio. A few years later he removed to a farm east of Napoleon and there lived the remainder of his life. He was a member of the Dutch Reformed church and a stanch Republican in politics. Herman Zahrend and wife were the parents of seven children, John, who became the husband of Addie Lillian Hall ; Henry, who died at the age of twenty; a daughter, who died in her childhood; Frederick of Napoleon, Ohio, who married Ella Fahringer, and has two sons, Earl 'and Frederick; Harmon, a farmer living near Liberty Center, Ohio, who mar- ried Clara Hudson, and has two children, Goldie and Ralph; Louise, who^ died February 26, 1905, the wife of James Fahringer, who left her husband with three sons, Harry, Ora and Arthur; Charles, of Lima, Ohio, who mar- ried Minnie Freeman, and has three daughters. Vera, Mildred and a baby. John C. Zahrend attended the common schools, of Liberty Center, Ohio, and later took a course in a Detroit business college. He was first employed as a clerk in a general store at Bluffton, Ohio, and later engaged in the- grocery business at that place, with Charles Day. He sold out his interests- in the grocery store, a short time after his marriage, and moved to Lima, Ohio, in 1886, where he took a position in a shoe store. A few years later he moved to Leipsic, Ohio, and became a partner of the O. E. Townsend Company, a company operating a large lumber and planing mill in Leipsic The firm consisted of John Zahrend, his brother-in-law, O E Townsend and the latter's father, L M. Townsend. Mr. Zahrend continued in this business until it was sold to the Robert Hixon Lumber Comany, after which he was retained by the latter company as the manager of the plant. He was also interested in the Peters Lumber Company, of Irwin, Kentucky. Mr. Zahrend was in active business in Leipsic until his death, March 7 1905. He was held in high esteem by his business associates, and throughout 33° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. the community where he had lived so many years. He was a man of strict business integrity, and had a fine Christian character. He was a loyal mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church, and was interested in everything which pertained to its welfare. He was a class leader, and a member of the official board- of the Methodist church at Leipsic. He was especially interested in temperance work. Since the death of her husband, Mrs. Zahrend makes her home in Leipsic, with her three unmarried children. One of Mrs. Zahrend's uncles, ■on her mother's side, James Hoagland, died in his early twenties, while living at Fort Wayne, Indiana. Before his death, he was elected to the state Senate •of Indiana, but died before the Legislature convened. He was said to be the youngest man who had been elected to the Indiana Senate up to that time. FRANK GMEINER. There are citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, who have come here from many states in the Union, as well as many foreign countries. The Austrian empire has contributed some of the best citizens who are now making their homes in this country and among them, Frank Gmeiner, of Ottawa, occupies .a prominent place. Coming to this country with his parents when a small -boy, he has been a resident of Putnam county, since the spring of 1864, and for the past half century has been actively interested in everything pertain- ing to the welfare of the county. His parents dying shortly after he reached his majority, left him with five younger children, to whom he acted as fa- ther and mother. Frank Gmeiner, the son of George and Mary (Flatz) Gmeiner, was born on December 3, 1852, in Vorardelberg, Tyrol, Austria. He was six years of age when his parents came to America and located in Sandusky ■county, Ohio, nine miles northwest of Fremont. In that county his father bought forty acres of timbered land, on which was a log school house, that, had just been abandoned. He lived in the school house until such time as lie was able to provide a better house. George Gmeiner cleared his land and had it partly improved when the Civil War broke out. He enlisted in the Seventy-second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry and after his en- listment had expired, in the spring of 1864, he sold his farm in Sandusky •county and moved to Putnam county, where he bought eighty acres of tim- bered land, in Monterey township, four and one-half miles northwest of PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 33 1 Ottoville. Here again the family lived in a school house for a short time, Mr. Gmeiner renting it for about two or three months until he could build a log cabin for the family. On this farm George Gmeiner and his wife lived, until their death, both dying in October, 1875, the mother dying on the second day of the month aiid the father on the sixteenth. It is a singular coincidence that both of them died at half past three, on a Friday morning. When George Gmeiner and his wife died, in the fall of 1875, they left six children. Frank, with whom this narrative deals, was the eldest, he being about twenty-two years of age at the time. The next eldest child was six years younger than he, his eldest sister being fourteen years of age, at which time she became the housekeeper for the orphan children. The youngest child was only seven years of age. The six children were as fol- lows : Frank, of Ottawa; Gebhard, of Washington; Mary, the wife of Charles Duvall, of Havana, Arkansas; Leonard, who is a farmer of this county, living between Kalida and Cloverdale; Kate, the wife of Joseph Leatherman, a farmer living near Vaughnsville, in this county; and George, a baker at St. Louis, Missouri. Upon the death of his parents, Frank be- came executor of his father's will and at his father's request before his death, took his place as head of the family and took charge of the farm and httle flock of fatherless children, who were obedient and were industrious and prospered. A few years later, the paternal estate was divided equally, each of the children going into the world to make a living. All of them have become useful members of society. Frank Gmeiner moved to Ottoville, and he and J. J. Miller and Andrew Kehres started a tile factory at that place. He continued in that business for about six years and then disposed of it and went into partnership with Wilham Gasser in the planing mill in the same place. He remained in this for about seven years, after which he engaged in the general real estate, loan and insurance business, which he has since followed. Mr. Gmeiner, very early in life, began to fill official positions in his township and county. At the age of twenty-two he was elected justice of the peace and was-re-elected for another term. He has also served as a no- tary public, taking out a commission more as a convenience to the public than for any remuneration which he might receive from the office. He has been frequently called upon to serve as an executor, administrator, guardian, etc. As a matter of fact, his time was so consumed in this way that in 1896, he disposed of his interest in the planing mill and lumber business and de- voted all of his time to the real estate, loan and insurance business. Mr. Gmeiner was elected recorder of Putnam county in 1902 and took 332 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. charge of the office in September of the same year and held it for three- years. At the expiration of his first term, he was re-elected and served for another three years. During the second term incumbency, the law was- changed as to the term of recorder's office to two years, and he was com- missioned to hold over one year more, so that he held the office continu- ously for seven years, the last term expiring in 1909. Since that time he has continued to reside in Ottawa, and is engaged in various lines of ac- tivity. He does a considerable amount of land abstracting, buying and sell- ing real estate, making loans and acting as guardian and administrator for estates. He was appointed by the state board in September, 1913, as a mem- ber of the board of liquor license commissioners for Putnam county, and. is still serving in this capacity. Mr. Gmeiner was married on June 7, 1893, to Mary Mallifskey. She was born at New Washington, Crawford county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Martin and Mary (Gorise) Mallifskey. Her parents were natives of German Bohemia, in Austria, and came to Ottoville, Putnam county, in the fall of 1892. Her mother died in this county, October 17, 1893, when her father came to live with Mr. and Mrs. Gmeiner and remained with them until he dropped dead suddenly in the court house at Ottawa, June 21, 1911. Mr. and Mrs. Gmeiner are loyal members of the Catholic 'church. He- is a member of the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Knights of Ohio and als® St. Peter's and Paul's Aid Society. NIMROD SPEAKER. The oldest resident of Belmore, Putnam county, Ohio, is Nimrod Speaker, who has been engaged in business in that place for twenty-nine years. When he first came to the pleasant village of Belmore, there was only a little board depot and two log cabins. During his long residence in the village he has seen it grow to its present prosperous condition, and has borne no inconsiderable part in making it what it is today. A leading business man for more than a quarter of a centui-y, he has been active in promoting the general prosperity of the town, and during a great part of. this period, he has held one official position or another. He is now retired from active work and is spending his declining years in retirement, highly honored and respected by everyone who knows him. Nimrod Speaker, the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Moreland) Speaker, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 333 was born on March 21, 1841, in Licking county, Ohio. His parents were natives of western Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively, and came to Licking county with their respective parents. Andrew Speaker was a son of Charles Speaker. Elizabeth Moreland was a daughter of David More- land, and both the Speaker and Moreland families were early pioneers in Licking county. Andrew Speaker and family moved to Putnam county, in 1857, and located in Blanchard township, not far east of Leipsic, and there, on a farm, the parents both died within four weeks of each other, in 1866. Soon after the family located in this county, Nimrod Speaker went to Put-in-Bay Island and worked there for some time. However, his health became impaired and, in 1861, he came to Belmore and worked in the timber, cutting out wood and timber, until 1868. In that year he and his brother, •George, bought a general store, at Belmore, and continued in partnership, until 1890. In that year, his brother withdrew from the business, and Mr. Speaker continued it alone, until 1897, when he retired from active work. Mr. Speaker has been a participant in the life of Belmore, since its inception. He is better informed on the history of the town than any other man. Mr. Speaker was married in 1865 to Hattie Ward, who was a native of Ireland and was two years of age when her parents brought her to America, the youngest of several children. At New Yoi'k both parents died and the children were left orphans. Relatives came and got them and reared them, these relatives living on a farm next to Mr. Speaker's father's home. He and his wife were schoolmates together, in their childhood days. To this union were born three children, George, who died at the age of twenty; Edward, who died in childhood; Katherine, who died on January 2, 1913, leaving her husband, Alvin Hook, with three children, two sons and a daughter. Mr. Speaker married Ellen Blue, in 1883, who was reared in Ashland county, Ohio, and came to Putnam county, with her brother, William, and now lives five miles east of Belmore. To this second union have been born three children, John Burgan, Harvey and William. John B. is a minister in the Methodist church, and is now stationed in Illinois. He married Lola Lonzway, and has three children. Harvey is a painter and decorator and makes his home in Belmore. William is a farmer at Belmore, who married ■Gertrude Linkhart. The mother of these three children died, in 1904. Mr. Speaker has been justice of the peace, for thirteen years, and still has three years more to serve of his present term. He has been clerk of Tiis township for two terms, treasurer for two terms, and has been on the 334 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. school board for the past twenty-seven years. He holds his membership in the Masonic lodge, at Deshler, and in the Independent Order of Odd Fel- lows, at Belmore. He is financially interested in the Belmore Banking Com- pany, and is now the vice-president of that institution. HARRY F. WENDELL. A substantial business man of Leipsic, Ohio, is Harry F. Wendell, who has been a resident of the city since 1894. He was in the newspaper business for the first few years after coming to this place and then engaged in the mail order business and has been engaged in selling by mail various things ever since that time. He started in by selling memorial cards by mail and still continues this business, although he has since added various other lines, such as mops, fire extinguishers and vacuum washers. Mr. Wendell has taken a very active part in the civic life of Leipsic since becoming a resident of the city, and has been one of the potent factors in advancing reforms of all kinds. Harry F. Wendell, the son of Daniel and Hannah (Schaub) Wendell, was born in Noble county, Ohio, in 1867. His father was born in the same county, a son of Harrison Wendell. Harrison Wendell was a son of Fred- erick Wendell, who was high sheriff of Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, for fifty-two years. Harrison Wendell, the grandfather of H. F. Wendell,' was born in Shenandoah Valley, in 1816, and came to Batesville, Ohio, when he was about fourteen years of age and helijed to build a seven-room brick house in that place. He carried the brick which went into the building as his father, Frederick, erected it. It was in this building, Harrison Wen- dell died in 1906, which building was for many years the finest in the community. Daniel Wendell was reared in Noble county and spent his whole life there. He enlisted in the Civil War in the Seventieth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was severely wounded and died from the effects of the wound in 1870. His wife, Hannah Schaub, was born in Monroe county, Ohio. H. F Wendell was reared at Batesville, Ohio, until he was sixteen years of age, and then moved to Cambridge, where he learned the printer's trade, and followed that until the spring of 1894. He came to Leipsic in that year and bought the Leipsic Tribune, a paper which had been started PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 335; two years previously. He was a practical newspaper man and built up the paper and operated it successfully for five years. He sold the paper in 1899' and has since that year been engaged in mail order business, selling me- morials, and he has made an immense success of, the venture. He still continues the business and now ships his cards all over the United States and Canada. This venture proving so successful he started the United States Mop Company, another mail order concern, with H. S. Huttinger as partner, and managed this business until the fall of 1910, selling mops all over the United States and foreign countries by mail. He and Mr. Hut- tinger established another mail order proposition in 1909 and sold chem- ical fire extinguishers under the name of the United Manufacturing Com- pany. He disposed of this biisiness in 1910, at the same time when he re- lincjuished interest in the mop company. He established the Wendell Vacuum Washer Company in the fall of 1913, which he conducts himself. He has a factory at Leipsic for the manufacture of the washers and employs a large office force to attend to the mail orders. Within a very short time he has built up such a business that he now ships his washers all over the civilized world. Mr. Wendell became one of the incorporators of the First National Bank, of Leipsic, in 1903, and was made vice-president of the institution. The bank went into voluntai'y liquidation, two years later, and completed its business by paying all depositors in full. He was secretary of the board of trade and for a time vice-president of the Leipsic Industrial Association. He was also president, for a time, of the Law and Order League, an organization which was promoted to improve the moral welfare of the city. This league was very active, after Leipsic went "dry," about ten years ago. Mr. Wendell was one of the most active men in the league and, while the fight was being made to vote the saloons out, he made a canvass of seventeen school districts with petitions signed by the farmers asking the city merch- ants to take the side of the "drys." These petitions taken together made a row of names fifteen feet long, and was a potent factor in subsequently ousting the saloons from Leipsic. Mr. Wendell has served on the Leipsic council and is now a member of the school board. He has been asked, repeatedly, to run for mayor, but has steadfastly refused to make the race for the office. He has also- served on the board of health, of his city. Li fact, there is probably not a man in the city who has been more active in its general welfare than Mr. Wendell, and in all things he has tried to do that which would be the best for the city at large. 336 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Wendell was married in 1892, to Laura Gallogly, who was a na- tive of Licking county, Ohio, is a daughter of Jacob and Frances (Brown) Gallogly, and to this union has been born one son, Francis, who is now attending the public schools of Leipsic. Mr. Wendell is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, and has attained to the thirty-second degree. Fie also holds his membership in the Knights of Pythias. He and his wife are active workers in the Presbyterian church, and he has performed the duties of treasurer of his church, and for many years, was a member of the board of trustees. At the present time he is an elder in the denomination. In all things, Mr. Wendell has tried to promote the moral welfare of his community, and it is safe to say that he is distinctively one of the representative men of Leipsic. LLEWELLYN GEIGER. One of the enterprising and rising yOung men, who are native born to Putnam county, Ohio, and who are making names and reputations for them- seleves in the marts of trade is Llewellyn Geiger, whose father was also born in this county. Marked aptitude and diligence characterize the activi- ties of this young man, who is highly esteemed for his many excellent quali- ties and for his quiet, gentlemanly methods of transacting his business afifairs in the community where he is carving out a career for himself. Llewellyn Geiger was born in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, May 29, 1883, a son of David G. and Mary (Hilty) Geiger. David Geiger was born on November 7, 1852, in Riley township, a son of John G. and Mary (Lugibihl) Geiger. John G. Geiger was born in 1819, in Berne, Switzerland, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Christian Geiger. John G. Geiger came to America, with his parents, in 1838, when he was nineteen years of age, and settled in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, where he entered government land. He experienced the usual pioneer hardships, but cleared his land and built a log house of two rooms and a log stable. It was in that house that David G. Geiger was born, one of a family of three sons and five daughters. David G. Geiger attended the public school and, during the periods when he was not in school, helped his father to clear the land on the farm and to operate the threshing machine which, in those days, was operated by horse- power. At the age of twenty-three, in 1875, he -married Mary Hilty, a MR. AND MRS. LLEWELLYN GEIGER. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. '337 ■daughter of Peter and Catherine (Neunschwander) Hilty, both of whom were of pioneer stock. After his marriage, he settled on a part of his father's farm, where he still lives. His wife died on April 22, 1885, when Llewellyn Geiger, the sub- ject, was not quite two years of age. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Geiger. They are Matilda, the wife of David Bucher, who lives in Riley township; Helena, the wife of Amos Hilty, who lives in Allen county; Gideon, who married Elizabeth Steiner and lives in Lima, Ohio; Elizabeth, the wife of Ezra Steiner; Llewellyn, the principal of this sketch, and Tillman, who married Rosa Suter and lives in Riley township. David Geiger was married a second time, in 1886 or 1887, his second wife being Rosine Gilliam, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Gilliam. Six children were born to this union, also, who are, Mary, unmarried, who lives at home; Hulda, the wife of Oswin Gerber, of Pandora, Ohio; Hiram, who married Cecil Starkey, and lives at Pandora, Ohio; John, Melvina and Wil- Jiam, who live at home. David Geiger has always done general farming and has been eminently successful. He is a loyal member of the Swiss Mennonite church and is active in its work. He is a stanch member of the Democratic party and has always taken an active interest in political matters. For three years he has been a school director, an office which he has filled to the complete satisfaction of the ■citizens. Llewellyn Geiger was born in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, May 29, 1883. He grew to manhood on the old homestead and attended district school, No. 7, until he was seventeen years of age. He continued to help his father in the operation of the farm until he reached the age of twenty-one, when he began to work as a carpenter, a trade which he followed for three years, spending a large portion of that time working in a saw-mill. When he was twenty-four years of age, September 15, 1907, Llewellyn ■Geiger married Pauline Suter, who was born on November 30, 1882, a ■daughter of David D. and Elizabeth (Neunschwander) Suter, 'of Riley township. David D. Suter was born in Riley township on April 14 1852 the son of Christian and Anna (Basinger) Suter. Christian Suter was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Christian Suter, Sr., Elizabeth Neunschwander was the daughter of Isaac and Mary (Steiner) Neunschwander, both of pioneer stock and Swiss descent. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Llewellyn Geiger spent seventeen 22 338 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. months in making a tour to the Pacific coast, spending several months in California and Oregon. On their return, Mr. Geiger engaged in the planing mill business, buying an interest in the firm of D. C. Shank & Company, of which concern he is now vice-president, assistant manager and a director. Mr. and Mrs. Geiger are both members of the Grace Mennonite church and are active in the church work. He is a member of the Democratic party, has taken an active interest in the political afifairs of his community, and in his party affiliations has served as a precinct committeeman. Llewellyn Geiger is a clean-cut and progressive young business man^ of good character and unquestioned integrity. He is well known and univer- sally respected. JOHN WILLIAM ELLERBROCK. The Ellerbrock family have been residents of Putnam county, Ohio, since 1835, when the parents of John William Ellerbrock came from Han- over, Germany, and settled south of Glandorf. Mr. Ellerbrock grew to maturity in this county and was engaged, for the greater portion of his life, in the manufacture of woolen goods, at Glandorf. In fact, this was the main business of the village of Glandorf for many years. In addition to his woolen manufacturing, he was also engaged in farming, but devoted most of his time and attention to the woolen business. He was a pioneer in the county, and a man who was highly respected by everyone who knew him. He and his good wife reared a large family of children to Hves of useful- ness, and they, in turn, married and are rearing families of their own. The late John William Ellerbrock was born in Hanover, Germany, February 10, 1830, and died at his home in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, May 25, 1 9 14. He was a son of William and Mary C. (Kracht) Eller- brock, and came to America, in 1836, with his parents, being only six years of age at the time the family located in this county. He was reared amidst pioneer conditions and, from his earliest boyhood, knew what it was to swing- an ax and handle the rifle. He received such education as was afforded by the schools of his home neighborhood and, immediately after his mar- riage, he and several of his friends started the Glandorf woolen mills, and for the most of his life, was engaged in this particular line of business. Later in life, he invested in farming lands and gave some of his attention to the tilling of the soil. He was an excellent business man and his integrity was such that it was never questioned. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 339 John W. Ellerbrock was married on October 22, 1856, to Mary A. Utendorf, who was born on February g, 1838, south of Glandorf, in this county, and was a daughter of Joseph and Mary A. (Gerdeman) Utendorf. To this union fourteen children were born, ten of whom are still living, Andrew, deceased; a twin brother to Andrew, who died in infancy; Mary, the wife of Matthew Schroeder; Catherine, a nun; Theodore, of Ottawa; Elizabeth, the wife of Henry E. Schweickert, of Peru, Illinois ; Philomina, a nun in the same convent with her sister, Catherine; Frank, of Peru, Illinois; Theresa, who is living in Glandorf; Charles B., a business man of Glandorf; Emma, the wife of Peter A. Missler, of Glandorf; Frances, the wife of John Geier, of Gallon, Ohio; Joseph, who died in infancy, and Bennie, a twin brother of Emma, who died in infancy. The mother of these children died on July 23, 191 o, and the father, as before mentioned, died on May 25, 1914. The Ellerbrock family are all loyal members of the Catholic church, at Glandorf. Theresa and Charles B. are now living in the old family resi- dence, in Glandorf. John W. Ellerbrock was a man who was widely known throughout the county, and, during his career of nearly eighty years in the county, there was never a time when he was not ready and willing to help those less fortunate than himself. He was charitable to the faults of his neighbors, kind and indulgent to his own family, and a genial and whole- souled citizen, who always stood for the best interests of his community. FRANK K. HAMMETT. Almost any business will give a substantial return if it is properly managed. Proper management involves a careful consideration of the re- lation between revenue and operating expenses. Frank K. Hammett has prospered and has made a success of the drayage and transfer business at Leipsic, bectuse he has never failed to look after his business carefully. Mr. Hammett is one of the substantial citizens of Leipsic. He was born in 1861 at Covington, Ohio, the son of James H and Elizabeth (Dunning) Hammett. His father came from Bedford county Pennsylvania, with his parents to London county, Ohio. He grew up iii northeastern Ohio and became the driver of a stagecoach along the shore of Lake Erie, between Cleveland and Buffalo. He was employed to drive a coach, hauling the man who had charge of building the Rock Island rail- 340 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. road across Iowa. It was all new country. They stopped at Marengo, a little frontier tavern, and there he met and became much interested in the daughter of the landlord of the little hotel. She was Elizabeth Dunning, the daughter of Theodore Dunning who was a pioneer by nature and in- clination, a genial old man who could play the fiddle. James H. Hammett returned to Ohio and wrote to the girl occasionally. Again he drove across Iowa, along the line of the road in course of con- struction, to Council Bluffs. When they reached it after a long and tedious journey, they found the town consisted of a tent and a party of men who were there to help build the railroad. In later years Mr. Hammett saw it as a thriving city. He came back to Ohio but finally returned to Iowa and married the girl. He came back to Covington, Ohio, and worked in an elevator for a time and later bought a farm here, about 1863, where he lived until about 1866. Mr. Dunning, his wife's father, moved here during the war and -Started the old Leipsic hotel in a two-story frame building, on the corner, where the Geltz store is now located. There were only a few houses then and not over forty inhabitants in the town aside from the railroad construc- tion gang. The old man got the pioneer fever again about 1866, fixed up a pioneer wagon and he and his wife drove to Nebraska, where they entered land and spent the rest of their lives with their sons and daughters who also entered land and prospered in the same community. Some time after his marriage James H. Hammett moved to Leipsic and took a place in a store. Later he moved to Leipsic and worked in an elevator for two years. Finally he and John Alt went into the general mer- chandise business and prospered. They extended the business and built an elevator and did a large business in grain. They met with reverses, how- ever, and had to retire, Mr. Hammett turning his attention to the insur- ance business. He later moved to Toledo and took a place in a large agri- cultural implement business, living there until his death. Mr. Hammett was twice married. By his first marriage were born three children, Luella, Frank K., the subject of this sketch, and William W. Frank K. was about three years old when his mother died. His father then married Mrs. Ann Elizabeth (Black) Waters, a widow, and to this second union five children were born, Lily, who died at the age of three; Eva Netta, Alva DeLoss, Lettie Arlina and Edward Early. Frank K. Hammett grew up at Leipsic and after working in various lines, in July, 1878, began draying at Leipsic and has followed this business PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ^.j for thirty-seven years. Most of the time he has had from ten to twelve men employed and many teams. He has prospered exceedingly in this busi- ness. He w^as ag-ent for the American Express Company for over fifteen years, or until March, 191 3. Mr. Hammett was married to Mary M. Hayes, in 1883. She was born in Warren county, Ohio. One son has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hammett December 28, 1884, Harry H. He attended the Tri-State Business College at Toledo, Ohio, and has been a stenographer most of the time since. He has worked mostly in railroad services; has traveled over most of the United States and in fourteen foreign countries. He has been in Cuba, Mexico, Hawaii, the Philippines, Japan, where he spent two years, China! Island of Guam and most of the principal European countries. In fact, his chief occupation has been traveling. He has a vast fund of information first hand. Altogether Harry H. Hammett has traveled not less than one hundred and fifteen thousand miles, undoubtedly, the most widely-traveled man m Putnam county, Ohio. Frank K. Hammett is popular in Leipsic and an influential citizen in his community. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Mr Hammett remembers Leipsic in its early days. He has seen deer between Main street and Leipsic Junction and wild game in abundance where the town now stands THEODORE DETERS. A prominent citizen of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, who was born m this village, before the Civil War, and has spent his entire life in the county, is Theodore Deters. Both of his parents were born in Germany and they settled in this county in 1841. Since that time, the Deters family have been residents of Glandorf. Mr. Deters has served as assessor of Ottawa township, for more than twenty years, and has filled various other official positions m an efficient and satisfactory manner. Theodore Deters, the son of Frank William and Mary (Redecker) Deters was born on May 13, 1858, in Glandorf, near the present location of the tile factoiy. His father was a native of Oldenburg, Germany, his birth having occurred there on April 14, 1814, coming to America at the age of nine, having previously lost both of his parents. Upon coming to America he' became a sailor and, from the age of seventeen until he was twenty-six years of age, he traveled over much of the world in a sailing 342 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. vessel. He then left the sea and, for seven years, worked in a pottery fac- tory at Cincinnati. It was while living there he married Mary Redecker. His wife was born in Hanover, Germany, and came to America in 1833, with her parents, Henry and Mary Redecker. The Redecker family located in Putnam county, Ohio, south of Ottawa, where the father bought a farm and lived the remainder of his days. Frank W. Deters and his wife moved to Glandorf, in Putnam county, in 1841, where he bought forty acres and settled down to the life of a farmer. Later he bought one hundred and twenty acres north of New Cleveland, but spent all of his life in the village of Glandorf, where he died, in 1887. He served as land appraiser on two dififerent occasions and for many years was assessor of Ottawa township, filling this office for more than eighteen years, from 1856 to 1874. He and his family were loyal members of the Catholic church. His widow died on August 26, 19 10. Ten children were born to Frank W. Deters and wife, only three of whom are now living, Theodore, of Glandorf ; Frank,, of Hamler, Henry county, Ohio, and William, a farmer living three miles north of Glandorf. Theodore Deters received his education in the schools of Glandorf and worked on his father's farm during his boyhood days. He remained at home until his marriage and then began farming for himself, continuing to reside in Glandorf. He served as assessor of Ottawa township, from 1891 until the spring of 1914. He has also been the appraiser of the Glandorf German Building and Loan Association, for six years. He has taken an active part in the ci^'ic life of Glandorf, and has been a member of the council for three years. Mr. Deters was married in 1882, to Magdalene Wischmeyer, who was a native of Hanover, Germany, and, in 1879, came to America with her father, Henry, and her sister, settling in Glandorf, where an elder brother, Herman, had previously located. Her father spent the rest of his life here with his children. Mr. Deters and his wife are the parents of six children, Frank, a painter who married Magdalene Lehman, and has two children, LenOra and Edna: Mary, the wife of Edward Gerdig, of Ottawa; Magdalene, who is still living with her parents; Frances, who married Charles Ellerbrock, a farmer of Glandorf, and has three children, Carolos, Mildred and Bertha; Joseph, who is now teaching in the public schools at New Cleveland, Ohio ; Henry, who is still living at home with his parents. Mr. Deters and his family are all members of the St. John's Catholic church, of Glandorf. He is also president of the St. John's Aid Society. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 343 GEORGE FRANKLIN POLK SMITH. An enterprising newspaper man, of Leipsic, is George Franklin Polk Smith, who is the able editor of the Free Press, in that place. His father was thei editor of this same paper for many years, and Mr. Smith has worked in newspaper ofifices from his boyhood days. He has had a very interesting career, having spent many years in professional baseball, where lie made a record as a player. He received an injury, in 1910, which com- pelled him to leave the profession and since that time he has given all of his time to newspaper work. Since the death of his father, in 1912, has had sole charge of the Free Press. George F. Smith, the son of William W. and Viola Ann (Baughman) Smith, was born at Leipsic, Ohio, June 14, 1888. His father was connected with the Free Press in Leipsic for many years, and was editor and owner up until the time of his death, February 16, 1912. Mr. Smith spent his boyhood days in Leipsic, and after finishing two years in the high school in this place, entered Lima College, as a student, "but did not complete his college course. When he was sixteen years of age, he became a member of the Leipsic Baseball Club, and while with this club had a state-wide reputation. When he was about eighteen years of age, he branched out as a professional baseball player with the Zanesville team, in Ohio. This team was in the Ohio-Pennsylvania League, and he remained with Zanesville for two years, and then spent one season in Gal- veston, Texas, playing with the team of that city, after which he went to Peoria, Illinois, and joined the Three I League. After spending half a season with this team, he went to Kewanna, Illinois, where he finished the season. The next two seasons were spent in the Ohio State League, and he was in this league when he injured a ligament, in 1910, and had to re- tire from professional baseball. Since that time he has given all of his at- tention to newspaper work, and upon the death of his father assumed control of the paper which that parent had so ably edited for many years. During all of the time he was playing baseball, he spent the rest of the year in his father's newspaper office and, when he took over the paper in 1912, he was thoroughly conversant with every detail of newspaper management. Consequently, he was abundantly able to take charge of the paper and he has already demonstrated marked ability in its management. He conducts a first-class paper, all of which is printed in his own plant. He is con- stantly on the alert for up-to-date methods, and has added a number of 344 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. features which have increased the circulation as well as the usefulness- of the paper. Mr. Smith was married on April 5, 1910, on his father's sixtieth birth- day, to Mary Magdalene Orians, who was born near Kirby, Ohio, and reared at Upper Sandusky. She is the eldest of ten children born to Frank J. and Rachel (Cooper) Orians. Mr. Smith and his wife are the parents of three children, George F., Jr., born on January 29, 191 1, who died hy0 days later; Robert James, born on June 19, 1912, and Mary Janet, born on April 21, 1914. Mr. Smith is an ardent supporter of the Democratic party and advo- cates its principles in his paper. He belongs to the Findlay Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Ottawa Council, Knights of Columbus, anJ the Wadras Caravan of the Alhambra, of Toledo. He also holds his mem- bership in the Leipsic Club. He and his family are loyal members of the Catholic church. JACOB A. SUTER. The career of Jacob A. Suter contains no exciting chapter of tragic events, but is replete with well-defined purpose, which, carried to successful issue, has won for him an influential place in business circles and high per- sonal standing among his fellow citizens. His life work has been one of unceasing industry and perseverance. The systematic and honorable methods, which he has ever followed, have resulted, not only in winning the confidence of those with whom he has had business dealings, but also in building up a large and profitable business. The Pandora Overall Company, in which Mr. Suter is superintendent, vice-president and a member of the board of directors, is one of Putnam county's leading industrial enterprises,, and to Mr. Suter is due a large share of the credit for its successful career. Jacob A. Suter was born on September 25, 1874, in Riley township,. Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Lugibihl) Suter, the former of whom was born in 1824, in Wayne county, Ohio. Abraham Suter was the son of John and Elizabeth Suter. John Suter was a native of Switzerland. Jacob A. Suter spent his boyhood days on the old homestead farm' where he attended the district schools and helped his father durino- the summer months. At the age of twenty-three, on February 10, 1898, Mr. Suter was mar- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 345, ried to Barbara Amstutz, the daughter of Abraham M. and Catherine (Hihy) Amstutz. The family history of Abraham M. Amstutz will be found in the sketch of P. A. Amstutz, a brother of Mrs. Suter, and the his- tory of Mrs. Abraham M. Amstutz will be found in the sketch of Isaac- Hilty, her brother. To Mr. and Mrs. Jacob A. Suter have been born three- children, Elda Loretta, who is a student in the high school ; Orlo Edison, who is in school, and Royle Kenneth. After his marriage, Mr. Suter took charge of the old home place. He- lived here for about one year and a half and then removed to Pandora, where he became interested in the Pandora Manufacturing Company. He- was one of the organizers of the enterprise, the other members of the firm being the Gerber brothers, John Amstutz and Albert Burry. Mr. Suter took the position of secretary and treasurer of the new company and looked after the mechanical end of the business. About four years later, the mill burned,, and the company was reorganized under the name of the Pandora Overall- Company. Since the organization of the new firm, which has an annual production of over two hundred thousand dollars, Mr. Suter has acted as- superintendent and has served in the capacity of vice-president and a member of the board of directors. Reverting to Mr. Suter's family history, John Suter, his grandfather, came with his wife to America in the early days and settled in Wayne county, Ohio, near Orrville. It was here that his family of twelve children^ four sons- and eight daughters, was educated and reared. Abraham Suter, one of the elder children, was bound out at the age of eight years to learn the shoemaker's trade. He remained at home until he- was a young man. He then came to Putnam county, where, for a time, he worked for different farmers in Riley township. Subsequently, he entered a tract of eighty acres of land from the government, one mile east of Pan- dora. This land was covered with virgin timber and a great deal of water. Abraham Suter first built a log cabin and barn and then proceeded to clear his farm. A few acres were prepared each year until, finally, the whole farm had been put under cultivation. Before entering his land from the government, Abraham Suter had been married to Elizabeth Lugibihl, the daughter of John Lugibihl and wife. It was shortly after his marriage, that he started in to find a new home in the wilderness. Abraham Suter and wife passed through the usual pioneer experiences in clearing their land, draining it and getting it ready for the plow. It was on this homestead, the family of twelve children lived. This family consisted of John, Mary, Peter A., Barbara, Catherine, Fannie, Susan, Magdalene, Elizabeth, Jacob 346 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. A., Sarah and one who died in infancy. Abraham Suter added to his original farm of eighty acres and greatly improved his additional farm holding. He died on the old home place, having been killed by a runaway team, in November, 1897. About one year later, in November, 1898, his wife passed away. She was a member of the Mennonite church and was -a splendid Christian woman, a devoted wife and a loving mother. Abraham Suter was also a member of the Mennonite church. He was an ardent Democrat and an industrious, hard-working citizen, a man of high ideals and unquestioned integrity. Jacob A. Suter, like his father, is a man of unquestioned integrity in the community where he lives and where his active business work is carried on. He is a Democrat, but has never been especially active in the councils of his party. He is a member of the Grace Mennonite church, as is also his wife. Jacob A. Suter is a clean-cut, progressive young business man and one of the original organizers of one of Putnam county's largest industries. He is recognized as a good citizen and a man of splendid attainments. W. H. HICKEY, M. D., and W. D. HICKEY, M. D. Men who have obtained success in their professional work are always Jionored and respected by the community in which they have lived and la- bored. Dearly loved are those who always find time to work in the interest of the whole community, inspiring others to industry, public spirit and faithfulness. Such men never fail to raise the standard of life in their community and the biographer is always proud to record the incidents of their lives. A descendant of men who fought bravely for freedom in the Revolutionary War and who, himself, has been a loyal patriot in another way is William Henry Hickey, M. D., of Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio. \\^illiam Henry Hickey, M. D., was born in 1847, in Licking county, Ohio, the son of Henry and Mary (Wilkins) Hickey. Henry Hickey was born on June 29, 1820, in Licking county, the son of William and Phoebe (Shambaugh) Hickey. William Hickey came from Winchester county, Virginia, not far from Baltimore, Maryland, coming to Ohio in 1813, and locating in Licking on a leased farm of forty acres, owned by Congressman Stansbury. William Hickey was the son of Edward Hickey. Edward Hickey was an Irish boy from County Clare, Ireland, who came over with -nineteen others under a contract to work for their* passage after they ar- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 347 rived in America. They were employed building docks, at Baltimore, and the entire twenty, with their employers, enlisted in the Revolutionary army under the command of Ewing, who was with Washington at the crossing of the Delaware. Ewing's force was kept on one side of the river, while Washington went across and won the victory. William Hickey was a soldier in the War of 1812 and he and his father are buried side by side in Barnes' graveyard, near Wilkins Corner, in Lick- ing county. Mary Wilkins was born on a farm adjoining the Hickey farm, in Licking county, a daughter of Henry and Magdalena (Smootz) Wilkins. They were from the Shenandoah valley, in Virginia, and from here they came to Ohio. Her parents were of Huguenot ancestry. Her father built the second grist-mill in Licking county, a mill that ran until the close of the Civil War. Henry Hickey and wife moved to Putnam county, October 6, 185 1, bringing with them their two sons, Dr. William H. and Reese F. Henry Hickey located on a farm one mile south of Gilboa and lived in that com- munity the rest of his life. His wife died on October 17, 1865. She was the mother of William H., Reese, Magdalena, RoUa and Lyman David, the latter dying when two years old. Rolla died at Hammond, Indiana, in 19 1 2. Magdalena is the wife of Charles F. Stolzenbach, Jr., the well-known baker of Lima. Reese lives south of Gilboa, on a farm. After the death of his first wife, Henry Hickey married Sarah Harris and to this union was born one son, Edward F., who has been in the em- ploy of the Standard Oil Company, at Woodstock, Canada, for many years. Henry Hickey died on April 21, 1871. Dr. William H. Hickey grew up on the farm south of Gilboa and attended college at Haysville in Ashland county. He studied medicine with T. E. Paul, M. D., of Ottawa. He attended the Medical College, in Cin- cinnati, and also the medical department of Western Reserve University, at Cleveland, where he was graduated on April i, 1870. He began the prac- tice of medicine, in Leipsic, April 15, 1870, and here he has practiced medi- cine since that time. Dr. Hickey also has a farm at the north edge of Leipsic. Dr. William H. Hickey was married on February 10, 1870, to Rachel Creighton. She was born in Kalida, and was a daughter of John E. and Mary Elizabeth (Stout) Creighton. Her father was left an orphan and brought to Putnam county by an uncle, William McClure, from Pennsyl- vania, who was county treasurer of Putnam county, during the seventies, and who died while in office. John E. Creighton grew up and served as 34S PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. county auditor, of Putnam county. Mary E. Stout was a daughter of Elisha and Abigail Stout. Elisha Stout came from Coshocton county, Ohio, during the late twenties and entered land where the town of "Gilboa is now lo- cated. In fact, he laid out the first plat of the town and also built the first grist-mills at Gilboa, one located two miles up the river, while another was built two miles down the river. His was the first water-power mill in the county and in order to run it he had to go to Columbus to get a permit from the legislature. Coming home, he started in the afternoon and reached Gilboa in the evening of the next day. He had a wonderful constitution. John E. Creighton entered land where Leipsic Junction is now located, and platted the first town lots at Leipsic. It was first called Craton- town. At Leipsic Station, lots were later plated. William H. Hicke_\- and wife are the parents of four children living and two dead, as follows: Brandon D., Jennie C, Wiley D., and Floyd. Brandon \\'as born in 1871, and is now yardmaster on the Nickel Plate railroad at Continental. He graduated from the Tri-State Normal School, at Angola, and the Lima Business College. He was admitted to the practice of law, in Angola, and practiced there for three years. He mar- ried Maude M. Nease and has one son, Robert. Jennie C, who graduated from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and Oberlon Conservatory of Music, lives near Limon, Colorado. Wiley D. Hickey, M. D., was bom in 1874. He attended the Hiram College, where he graduated in 1895. Upon graduation, at Hiram, he entered the medical department of the Uni- versity of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, in the fall of 1896, graduating in 1900. He immediately began practicing, at Leipsic, Ohio, and has practiced with his father since that time. Wiley D. Hickey, M. D., was married on June 12, 1905, to Eleanor A. Rowland, of Columbus Grove, the daughter of David Rowland and wife. Mrs. W. D. Hickey attended the Oberlin con- servatory of Music. Dr. and Mrs. W. D. Hickey have one daughter, Dorothy Ellen. FJoyd D. lives at Limon, Colorado, on a cattle ranch owned by him, his sister, Jennie, and their father. He was born in 1882, and grad- uated from the Ann Arbor high school, and at the Eastman Business College, at Poughkeepsie, New York. Dr. William H. Hickey has served as township treasurer for two terms ; mayor of Leipsic two terms, and a member of the council and board of education. He was health officer of Van Buren township for twenty-five consecutive years and is the present health officer at Leipsic. Wiley D. Hickey, M. D., has been mayor two terms, health officer of Leipsic two terms, and is at present a member of the city council. Brandon was justice of the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 34Q peace of Van Buren township for two terms. Brandon and Dr. W. D. were both in Company A., Sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in the Span- ish-American War. Dr. Wiley D. was for five years assistant surgeon of the Second Regiment, Ohio National Guard, with the rank of first lieutenant, and, at the time of his resignation, was ranking first lieutenant in the medical -department. William H. Hickey, M. D., was a charter member of the Ma- sonic lodge at Leipsic, and his sons are also members of the same local lodge. Brandon is also a member of the Knights of Pythias. Dr. Wiley D. is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. Mrs. William H. Hickey -was elected a member of the school board at the first election after the law was passed authorizing the election of women and was treasurer of the board all the time she was a member. William H. Hickey, M. D., and Wiley D. Hickey, M. D., are both mem- bers of the Putnam County Medical Society, the Northwestern Ohio Medical Society and the Ohio State Medical Society. William H. Hickey, M. D., was pension examiner under Cleveland's administration. Wiley D. Hickey, M. D., is a member of the Egbert Spanish War Veterans' Association, at Toledo, Ohio. There are only six or seven people in Leipsic who were here when W. H. Hickey, M. D., came. He is very well known in this part of the state, as an able physician and a public-spirited man. He has also given his children ex- ceptional educational advantages, far beyond the average, at a great per- sonal sacrifice to himself. He has lived and guided his children so that they feel a kind fellowship with him and honor him as dutiful and loving sons and ■daughters. BENJAMIN F SEITZ, SR. The future of this country lies in the hands of the present generation. Those who contribute most to the welfare of future generations are those who are at this minute keenly interested in progressive movements affecting all lines of human endeavor — those who are ever active in their business, their trade or profession. These are the men who acquire splendid fortunes, accumulate vast and fertile farms and a lucrative and enviable professional practice. These are the men who serve their fellow men faithfully, whatever may be their chosen profession. One of the well-known citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, and a man who has been foremost in the business affairs of this 350 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. county is Benjamin F. Seitz, Sr., vice-president of the Exchange Bank, of Columbus Grove. Benjamin F. Seitz, Sr., was born on September i6, 1853, in Union town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio, on a farm. He first saw the light of day in an old log cabin and has slept many a night under a slab board roof of a log cabin, through which the snow sifted in his face. His parents were pioneer settlers of Putnam county. He is the son of David and Lydia (Huf- ford) Seitz. David Seitz was bom in Fairfield county, Ohio, in 1819. His parents were David and Catherine Seitz. The father of Benjamin F. Seitz, Sr., grew up in Fairfield county, Ohio, and while living there married Lydia Hufford, who was born and reared in Perry county, Ohio, the daughter of Daniel Hufford. David Seitz and wife moved to Putnam county in 1847, settling in Union township. They pur- chased land for one dollar and seventy-five cents an acre, all of which was wild wood. Until Mr. Seitz could build a log cabin, the family lived at the the home of Abram Funk, nearby. Before the family was brought to the cabin, David Seitz had partly furnished it. The first night after the ar- rival of the family, he finished enough floor upon which to place a bed, and the wife cooked the first meal beside a sugar stump. It was in this cabin that Benjamin F. Seitz, Sr., was born and spent his boyhood days. He still remembers seeing a few wild deer and many turkeys during his youth. On this farm his parents lived and died. David Seitz had more than ordinary political influence in his community. He was a justice of the peace, land ap- praiser and township trustee. Benjamin F. Seitz lived on this farm until his' marriage. He was married in 1877 to Sarah J. Funk, the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Clevenger) Funk, a grand-daughter of Abraham Funk, who sheltered them when his father's family first came to Putnam county. Mrs. Seitz was born in Sugar Creek township. Her father and mother both grew up in Putnam county. Abraham Funk came from Fairfield county before the arrival of the Seitz family. Elizabeth Clevenger was the daughter of Samuel Clevenger, who was reared in Putnam county and the son of pioneer parents, coming from Franklin county. They settled where Vaughnsville is now located. Samuel Clevenger's father owned considerable land along Sugar creek. After Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Seitz, Sr., were married they settled on a tract of wooden land in Sugar Creek township. The land was just as it had been left by the Indians, except for a small patch of deadened timber. Mr. Seitz still has the sheepskin deed that was signed by President James K. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. -jcj Polk. He and his wife went to housekeeping in a log cabin until Mr. Seitz: could build a house. He owned eighty acres of land then and he improved this farm and added an adjoining eighty. Later he added one hundred and fourteen acres across the road in the same township, a total of two hundred and seventy-four acres. He continued farming there until 1905, when he moved to Columbus Grove, and has lived here since that time. He still owns this farm, except fifty-seven acres, which he sold. About twelve years ago Mr. Seitz purchased an interest in the Exchange Bank, and upon the death of Mr. Crawford, who was then president, in 191 1, he became president of the bank and served in that capacity until it was reorganized as a state bank. He decided that the president should be at the bank regularly during business hours and that another should hold the place, so he gave up this office and the present incumbent has served as president, Mr. Seitz serving as vice-president. To Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Seitz, Sr., seven children have been born, one of whom, Bessie, died at the age of fourteen months. Those living are John D., Maude, Peter, Benjamin F., Jr., David and Marion. John D., who- lives on part of his father's farm, married Nellie Reynolds, and has four children, May, Helen, Lucile and Margery. Maud, who married J. D. Guffy, lives in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and has four children, Roy, Russell, Fay and Vestina. Peter, who lives in Sugar Creek township, on the old homestead, married Dula Dresky and has four children, Charles, Clarence (deceased)^ Blanche and Myrtle. Benjamin F., Jr., who lives in Columbus Grove, mar- ried Myrtle Reiger and has three children, Emerson, Christine and Mildred. David, who lives in Columbus Grove, married Vida Sakemiller and has one daughter. Donna. Marion F. is now fifteen years old. Mr. Seitz recalls the early roads of Putnam county, when it required a whole day to go six miles from the farm to Columbus Grove, and back again. At the time Mr. Seitz was rearing his family it required a day to. haul four or five, hogs to Columbus Grove. Mr. Seitz and wife belong to the Christian church and Mr. Seitz is a trustee in this denomination, also being chorister for some time in the church at Columbus Grove. Formerly he was clerk of the Ottawa River church, in Sugar Creek township. Mr. Seitz is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Few men in Putnam county are better known than Benjamin F. Seitz, Sr., and a few men are more entitled to the confidence and esteem of the community which he enjoys to the fullest measure, than he. He is one of those men of whom it may be truly said when his last work is finished, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." .352 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. LEVI HUMMON. One of the oldest pioneer settlers of Putnam county, Ohio, is Levi Hummon, whose whole career, of more than seventy-seven years, has been spent within this county. He and his young bride started in with an eighty- acre farm in 1859, where they lived until 1906. Mr. Hummon had one hundred and sixty acres of well-improved land when he moved to Leipsic, in the spring of 1906, which is the direct result of his own work, supplemented by that of his wife and children. He and his good wife have reared a large family of children to lives of usefulness and honor. A greater thing than this can no man do. Levi Hummon, the son of John and Mary (Winninger) Hummon, was born in Putnam county, Ohio, December 31, 1837. His father, a son of Peter and Mary (Carn) Hummon, was born at Kittanning, Pennsylvania, in 1815. Peter Hummon was a native of Pennsylvania, a farmer in his early life and, later, a distiller of whiskey and applejack. Mary Carn was a native of Holland, who came to America alone, when a girl, and located in Kittanning, Pennsylvania, where she met and married Peter Hummon. It is interesting to note how the Hummon family came to locate in Ohio. After Peter Hummon and his wife had been married several years, and she had reared six children, she came, alone on horseback, to Wyandot county, Ohio, where she entered one hundred and sixty acres of government land. After accomplishing this unique feat she returned to Pennsylvania and then, with her husband and six children, together with all of their household ■effects, came back to Ohio and made their home in the wilderness. They made the overland trip with an ox team and located in Wyandot county, where they lived the remainder of their lives. Peter Hummon and wife were the parents of ten children, eight daughters and two sons, one of whom was John Hummon, the father of Levi. John Hummon was reared on the farm in Wyandot county, and there ■experienced all the hardships and thrills of pioneer life. When he was a small boy he was often frightened by the Indians, who, though harmless, enjoyed seeing the lad run. He remained on the homestead until he grew to manhood, and, about 1836, married Mary Winninger, a native of Ger- many, who came to Ohio with her parents and located in Wyandot county. Immediately after their marriage, John Hummon and his young bride moved from Wyandot county to Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1837, where they entered government land. This farm he cleared, developed and MU. AND .MRS. I-EX'! IHMMOX. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 353 lived upon the remainder of his hfe. There were ten children born to John Hummon and wife, five of whom are still living, Levi, Adam, deceased- ■George, deceased; David, Peter, Minerva, Clara and Ada, deceased. One boy, William, died at the age of thirteen, and a daughter, Mary Ann, died at the age of two. Levi Hummon was born the year after his parents located in Putnam ■county, consequently he was reared amid pioneer conditions. He attended the typical log-cabin school house with its slab desks, pine benches and puncheon floors. He helped his father clear the farm and erect the build- ings. The first house on the old place was the ordinary log cabin. This was replaced a few years later by a hewed-log house, which was more pre- tentious, and it was on this farm Levi Hummon remained until his marriage m 1859. After teaching in one of the schools in that township for a year, he and his young wife located on a farm of eighty acres in Van Buren town- ship, which they finally purchased. This farm is situated about three miles ■east of Leipsic, to which four years later, they added another eighty acres. The farm was gradually brought under cultivation by Mr. Hummon and his growing sons, and it is safe to say there is not a more attractive or better improved farm in the county. Levi Hummon was married on November 24, 1859, to Amanda C. Bolton, of Hancock county, Ohio. She was a daughter of John and Mary Bolton and was born in Stark county, Ohio, October 29, 1840, her parents being natives of Pennsylvania. To this union have been born eleven chil- dren, Francis, Mary Matilda, John A., Ella L., Cyrus, Byron D., Irvin F., Jenna, Nettie May, Charles E. and Oscar P. Francis, born on November 3, i860, was first married to Maggie Sutter, who died; later he married Delia Hopkins, who is also deceased. His third wife was Ella Cole, of Tacoma, Washington. Two children born to the first marriage, who died in infancy' and to the second marriage six children were born, Merrill, Roy, Carl, Fay,' Ethel and Orlo. Mary Matilda, born on July 16, 1862, married Marion Learn, now deceased, and has two children, Glenn and Maud. She makes her home in Detroit, Michigan. John A., born on September 13, 1864 married Elizabeth Phfeister, and now lives in Van Buren township To this union eight children have been bom, Floyd, Esta, Guy, Carrol, Dale, Ona, Ormond and one who died in infancy. Ella B., born on September 20, 1866, died at the age of two, Cyrus, born on January 27, 1869, married Ella Dimple, Vernon, Michigan, and has one daughter, Leota. Byron B., born on July 20, 1871, was first married to Mattie Altman, and after her ■death, to Bertha Mintie. To his first marriage were born three children 23 354 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Derril, Vera and Ina. He is now living at Carmangay, Alberta, Canada. Irvin F., born on July 9, 1874, married Emma Simmons, and has one son,. Irvin F., Jr. Irvin F. now lives at Berwin, Illinois. Jenna, born on October 26, 1876, died on October 29, 1876. Nettie May, born on June 2y, 1878,. died at the age of nineteen. Charles E., of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, born oil June 25, 1 88 1, was married to Mamie William, and has two daughters, Beulah and Elizabeth. Oscar P., of Leipsic, born on April 18, 1884, mar- ried Ethel A. Bush, and has one son, Raymond. Mr. Hummon has served as township trustee and as a member of the school board. He has also been treasurer of his township. He has always- given his support to the Democratic party and been active in its affairs. Although he has not joined any religious organization he attends the- Methodist Episcopal church, of which his wife is a member. Mr. Hummoa is still hale and hearty, despite his advanced age, and is able to recall many pioneer experiences, through which he passed in his boyhood days. LOUIS W. KUNTZ. Success in the mercantile business is founded on strict integrity, good business management and courteous dealings with the public. Such a busi- ness is likewise an evidence of the possession of these qualities, because na man can succeed very well without them. The Kuntz store, at Leipsic, Ohio, founded by the late Louis W. Kuntz, is conducted on these principles. Louis W. Kuntz was born, in 1859, at West Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio, the son of Christian and Mary (Dietz) Kuntz. Christian Kuntz and wife were born, reared and married in Germany, and came to the United States about 1850. They first lived at Scranton, Pennsylvania, and later came to West Leipsic, where they engaged in the saw-mill business. Later, Mr. Kuntz came to Leipsic and took a half interest, with Mr. Foltz, in the grist- mill, at "the south end of Leipsic. He sold out his interest there, in the early seventies, and bought a farm at the south edge of the town, living there until July, 19 1 4. He died on February 6, 19 15, Christian Kuntz was eighty- nine years old and his widow registers an even four score and ten. They had been married nearly sixty years. Louis W. Kuntz grew up at Leipsic, and, while a young man, worked in a dry goods store until about twenty years old. He then went into business for himself. He and William Cole were in the grocery business together. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 355 but three years later they dissolved the business, when Louis W. and his brother went into a partnership, which lasted for about fifteen years. After that, Louis W. Kuntz continued in business until his death. At the time he and Mr. Cole were together they also operated a warehouse. Louis W. Kuntz was married, in 1882, to Emma Wineland. She was born at Van Buren, Hancock county, Ohio, the daughter of George and Isa- bel (Morehead) Wineland. George Wineland was a native of Pennsylvania. Isabel Morehead was born on a farm in Hancock county, near Findlay. George Wineland and his brother conducted a saw-mill until he went tO' war. He served in the Civil War, as a soldier, dying in the service, o,f typhoid fever. At the time of his death he was still a young man. He left a widow and two daughters, of whom Mrs. Louis W. Kuntz was only about a year old at the time of her father's death. The mother later married Joseph Mitchell and lived in Mocomb. She afterward moved to Ottawa. The mother died in 1908 and is buried in Leipsic. Five children have been born to Louis W. Kuntz and wife, Charles Ed- ward, Mary, Florence, Hazel and Dorothy. Mr. Kuntz erected the business block in which the Kuntz store is located, about 1900. This is a substantial two-story brick building. Charles Edward Kuntz, his son, _ who now operates the store, was born July 25, 1883, in Leipsic, Putnam county. For ten years he was chief clerk in the office of the Nickel Plate railroad, at Leipsic Junction, and resigned that place to take charge of the store, at the time of his father's death. He was married, in August, 1905, to Bessie Sherrard. She was bom in Blanchard township, Putnam county, the daughter of Chester and Carrie (Maidlow) Sherrard. Chester Sherrard was born in Blanchard township and a sketch of his life is found elsewhere in this volume. Louis W. Kuntz was a Republican. At various times he was nominated by his party for county treasurer and county clerk and served on the city council several terms, and also on the school board. He was a member of the school board at the time the new building was erected. Mr. Kuntz was a member of the Presbyterian church, a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Knights of Pythias. He was master of finance in the Knights of Pythias for twenty-five years, holding this office until his death, and was also secretary of the Masonic lodge. He died on June 25, 1912. Mrs. Kuntz owns the store, left by her husband. Charles Edward Kuntz, the present manager of the store, is a Republican and is now serving as treasurer of Van Buren township. He belongs to the Masonic lodge and the Knights of Pythias. Mrs. Charles E. Kuntz is a 356 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. highly educated woman, and very popular in her community. In fact, the whole Kuntz family are popular throughout the county, where they have occupied a prominent place for so many years. WILLIAM D. STARLING.. An enterprising druggist, of Leipsic, Ohio, is William. D. Starling, who has been located in this city since 1901. He started to work in a drug store while still a lad in school and has made this his life work. He not only has a practical knowledge gained from long experience behind the prescription counter, but also has a technical training, which comes from a good col- lege course. As a result, he is a thoroughly competent and efficient phar- macist. He is now a partner in the drug firm of Starling & Buckley, at Leipsic, and has active charge of the store in this city. William D. Starling, the son of Erastus B. and Alice (Hamilton) Starling, was born at Middle Point, Van Wert county, Ohio, in 1881. His father was born near Oil City, Pennsylvania, in 1857, and is a son of Jonathan and Sarah Starling. His mother was born in Middle Point, Van Wert, Ohio, and is the daughter of John Hamilton and wife. His father is now engaged in the dairy business at Payne, Ohio. William D. Starling was reared to manhood in Payne, Ohio, and while still in school began to work in a drug store. After leaving school he con- tinued as a drug clerk, but feeling the need of technical training along pharmaceutical lines, became a student in the Northern Normal Univer- sity at Ada, Ohio, where he took the course in pharmacy. After leaving college, he returned to Payne and remained there until 1901. In that year he came to Leipsic and took a position in the drug store of C. S. Buckley, and, in 1908, became a partner with Mr. Buckley. Mr. Starling now has active charge of the store in Leipsic, Mr. Buckley maintaining his residence at Findlay, Ohio. Their store is well stocked with a complete line of drugs and a varied assortment of druggists' sundries. He enjoys a well-deserved patronage in Leipsic and the surrounding community, and has one of the best and most attractively-arranged drug stores in the county. Mr. Starling was married in June, 1904, to Mary Archer, who was a native of Guernsey county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Wilson and Mar- garet (Trott) Archer. Her parents moved to this county while she was still a child and took charge of the Central house, at Leipsic, and they PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 357 continued in charge of this hotel until their death. Mr. Starling and his wife have two daughters, Helen and Maxine. William D. Starling is an active Republican and takes an intelligent interest in political affairs. He is now serving his second term on the city council and always gives his support to such measures as he believes will be for the benefit of the city. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, while fraternally, he is a Free and Accepted Mason and has attained to the Temple degree. He also holds his membership in the Knights of Pythias. HOWARD C. HUMMON. A successful business man of Leipsic, Ohio, is Howard C. Hummon, who has spent his whole career of forty-five years in this county. Born and reared on the farm in Liberty township, he has been engaged in the implement business in Leipsic since 1898, and has built up a large business. He has been active in the councils of the Democratic party in his county, and has served with credit as county recorder for two terms. He is an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, deeply alive to the welfare of his community, and in all things stands as a high type of the good American citizen. Howard C Hummon, the son of Adam and Nora (Guthrie) Hummon, was born on November 30, 1870, in Liberty township, Putnam county, Ohio. His father was born in Riley township, this county, in 1839, and was a son of John Hummon and wife, early settlers in Riley township. John Hum- mon was of Pennsylvania Dutch descent. Adam Hummon was a life-long farmer and spent practically all his, days in Liberty township. His wife, Nora Guthrie, was born in Monroe township, in this county, and died about 1884. Adam Hummon was at one time the nominee of the Democratic party for county treasurer, having previously served as treasurer of Liberty township. He died in 1902. Three children were born to Adam Hummon and wife : Truman F., de- ceased; Howard C., of Leipsic, and John E., of Denver, Colorado. Howard C. Hummon was reared on his father's farm and received his elementary education in the schools of Liberty township. He then became a student in Crawfis College, and later taught school one term in Liberty township. He then engaged in farming, and, after his marriage in 1893, continued in agricultural pursuits for five years. Mr. Hummon sold his 358 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. farm of eighty acres in the spring of 1898 and engaged in the implement busi- ness at Leipsic, and now deals in all kinds of agricultural implements, buggies and automobiles. He has built up a wide acquaintance throughout the county. By treatnig all of his customers with uniform fairness and consideration, he has built up a large and lucrative trade. He tries to see that every one of' his customers is satisfied, and by his uniform courtesy and honesty in all trans- actions, has succeeded to an admirable degree in building up his trade. _ Mr. Hummon was married in 1893 to Clara C. Miller, who was a native of Blanchard township, and is a daughter of Joseph H. Miller and wife. Her father was born and reared on a farm in Blanchard township where he spent all of his life. He was a director of the county infirmary for two terms, and died m November, 1913, his wife having passed away sev- eral years previously. Mr. Hummon is a stanch Democrat and has always been active in the councils of his party. He was elected recorder of Putnam county in 1908 and took his office in September of the following year. His first term was so satis tactory that he was renominated and elected for a second term hold- ing the office until September, 1913. Since that time he has devoted' all of his attention to his rapidly-increasing business in Leipsic. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias while he and his wife are both loyal members of the Lutheran church FRANK EDGAR CRITCHET. The village of Belmore, Putnam county, Ohio, has no more enterpris- ing citizen than Frank Edgar Critchet, who has been engaged in business m that place for the past quarter of a century. His parents moved to this county in 1871, where he has lived since that time, having followed farming and public school teaching before engaging in a general mercantile busi- ness. Li addition to his general store, he is also a funeral director and has been engaged in the undertaking business at Belmore since 1900' He has been active in the life of the community and filled various official posi- tions with credit to himself and satisfaction to his fellow citizens. Frank E. Critchet, the son of Andrew Jackson and Mary Ann (Mil- burn) Critchet, was born in Licking county, Ohio, February 27, 1861 His father was a life-long farmer and also operated a threshing outfit during PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 359 the summer seasons for a number of years. The family moved to Putnam county in 1871, and located in the southern part of Van Buren township, where Andrew J. Critchet bought a farm and lived most of the remainder of his life. He died at Belmore, March 7, 191 1, at the age of eighty-seven. His wife had died in 1898. Andrew J. Critchet was a member of Company C, Seventy-fifth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, during the Civil War, and served with distinction in that conflict. Frank E. Critchet was ten years of age when his parents moved from Licking county, Ohio, to Putnam county, and consequently, received his elementary education in those counties. After finishing the common schools of Van Buren township, in Putnam county, he became a student at Crawfis College, and then engaged in public school teaching in Henry county, Ohio, for two years. Mr. Critchet started a grocery store in Belmore in 1890, and has been in business here since that time. He had only one hundred and fifty dollars when he started in the business, but by careful economy and good business judgment, has built up a large and lucrative trade in Belmore and the surrounding country. He now has a general mercantile establishment and handles a general line of goods, such as is found in stores of this kind. He graduated from the Champion College of Embalm- ing at Springfield, Ohio, in 1900, and has been engaged in the embalming and undertaking business at Belmore since that year. F. E. Critchet is the son of William H., and has charge of the switch- board and lines and is general manager of the Farmers' Mutual Telephone Company in Belmore. Mr. Critchet was married on February 23, 1887, to Minnie Miley, a steamstress of Belmore, who was a native of Hocking county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Frederick and Catherine (Leffler) Miley. Her parents moved to Putnam county in 1863, and located twO' miles south of Belmore, where the parents lived until late in life. They spent their declining years in Belmore. Mrs. Critchet's father was trustee for a number of years. He •died in March, 1908, and his wife died in October, 1902. Mr. Critchet and his wife have one son, William H. Mr. Critchet has always supported the Democratic ticket, and for many years has been one of his party's leaders in this county. He served two terms as township assessor and was mayor of Belmore for one term. He helped to organize the annual reunion of former residents of Licking, and has been president of the society for the entire nine years it has existed. These reunions are held annually in Putnam county, and the 19 14 meeting 360 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. was held on September 10, in a grove one and one-half miles south of Belmore. Mr. Critchet is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fel- lows, where he and his wife both belong to the Daughters of Rebekah. He has a number of interesting old relics, including an ancient lantern, an. old flint-lock muzzle-loading pistol, and old-style grease lamp, and a Bible that was printed in Edinburgh in 1782. Mrs. Critchet has been a dress- maker at Belmore for the past twenty-five years. They are most estimable people and are highly esteemed in the community where they have lived sO' many y«ars. WILLIAM MARTIN RISSER. Clearly-defined purpose and consecutive effort in the affairs of life will inevitably result in obtaining a large measure of success. In tracing the career of one who has attained tangible results as the consequence of his own efforts, there comes into view the intrinsic individuality which made such accomplishment possible, that there is found an incentive to inspiration and, at the same time, there is inward a feeling of respect and admiration. The qualities which have made William Martin Risser one of the prominent and successful farmers of Putnam county, have also won for him the esteem of his fellow citizens; for his career has been one of well-directed energy,, strong determination, and honorable, straightforward business relations. William Martin Risser is the largest individual cattle feeder in Putnam county and is also a feeder of more hogs every year than any other farmer residing in this county, a distinction of no small consequence in a county that is reputed for its many splendid farms and extensive farmers. Mr. Risser is well equipped for raising great numbers of cattle and hogs. His main barn is eighty by one hundred and thirty feet, and fifty feet high. His horse stables, feeding room, and cow stables are forty-four by eighty feet; and the cattle' feeding space covers an area of eighty-six by eighty feet. All of this is under one roof, to which has been added an ad- joining shed, one hundred and thirty by eight feet. This barn was built in 1913, at a cost of approximately eight thousand dollars. Here is to be found room for twenty head of horses, and five milch cows, besides one hun- dred head of cattle. Mr. Risser also has about thirty-five head of hogs in this barn, and can accommodate a hundred and fifty more. The feed is stored in the upper story, from which it is dropped through five openings to MR. AM) MRS. WILLIAM M. JMSSKU. RESIDENCE OF WH.LIAM M. KISSEIt. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 361 feed boxes on the ground floor. Around each of these boxes twenty head of cattle can feed. The second barn is one hundred and six by seventy- four feet, and is used exclusively for cattle and hogs. In this barn Mr. Risser can accommodate a hundred head of cattle, and one hundred and fifty head of hogs. William Martin Risser also lives in a large and com- fortable residence, consisting of eighteen rooms, and which is equipped with two baths. It has a laundry and a pipe-water plant moved by the pressure system; also a cistern, which holds three hundred and fifty bar- rels of water. The house is heated by hot water from basement to attic. Mr. Risser's successful operation as a farm manager, and his success dur- ing the past twenty years, has been little short of remarkable. Mr. Risser was born on March 29, 1871, in Riley township, Putnam- county, Ohio. He is a son of David and Margaret (Krohn) Risser. Da- vid Risser was born at Derkheim, Bavaria, Germany, April 5, 1840, and is the son of Abraham and Catherine (Vonvennig) Risser. Mr. Risser's mother, who was Margaret Krohn, before her marriage, is the daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Weaver) Krohn, and was born in Butler county, January 5, 1844. At the age of three months she was brought by her parents to Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio. When a young man, William Martin Risser attended the Kiene district school until he was eighteen years old. He averaged about eight weeks in school each winter, and during the remainder of the time he worked on. the farm with his father. Subsequently, he attended the Pandora high school under the tutelage of his brother, George, who was principal of this^ school. The first year he was in school for seventy days, and the second year he was in school for seventy-two days. Following his work in the Pandora high school, he took a ten-weeks business course at the Ohio Northern University at Ada. On completing this course, he had arrived at the age of twenty-one. Prior to this time, with the exception of the short period he was in school, he had been the mainstay of his father in the management and work on the large farm. After returning from Ada, he worked for his father for two years without compensation, and then went into partnership with him for the ensuing sixteen years. The first eight years his share of the net profits was ten per cent., and the balance of the sixteen years his share was twenty- per cent. He rented two hundred and forty-three acres from his father in 1905, upon which he is now engaged in farming for himself under the arrange- 362 PUTNAM GOUNTY, OHIO. ment made at that time. Mr. Risser attributes his success, as a farmer and stock raiser, to the instruction he has received in the school of hard work, under the expert guidance of his father. William Martin Risser was married at the age of twenty-four, on No- vember 27, 1895, to Elizabeth Lemley, the daughter of Jacob L. and Sarah Jane (Layton) Lemley. Mrs. Risser was born on August 31, 1875, in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio. Her father was a native of Mor- gantown. West Virginia, born on July 10, 1837, and a son of Asa and Elizabeth (Evans) Lemley, both of whom were natives of western Pennsyl- vania. Mrs. Risser's mother was born on July 10, 1838, close to Morgan- town, West Virginia. She is the daughter of Peter A. and Catherine (Liming) Layton, who were natives of West Virginia. Mrs. Risser was one of six children born to her parents. The others were Alice M., Charles, Mary, Katie and Sarah S. Her father and mother came to Putnam county, Ohio, in 1871. They had been married ten years previously, on Februarv 7, 1861. Mrs. Risser received her education in the common schools of Pandora, and lived with her parents one-half mile north of the town, until she was married. William Martin Risser is not only the largest individual cattle feeder in Putnam county, but he is, likewise, the largest feeder of hogs. He is considered one of the most progressive farmers in the county and his suc- cess has been little short of phenomenal. Mr. and Mrs. Risser have been the parents of five children. Mar- garet Jane was born on December 2, 1896. Irene Beatrice was born Sep- tember 5, 1897. Phyllis Francesca was born on August 24, 1899. David Lemley was born on January 4, 1901. Lillian Elizabeth was born on April -27, 1905. Mr. Risser is a Democrat. He is now serving his second term as trustee and also his second term as a member of the school board. Both of these oifices were conferred upon him with solicitation on his part, which is no small tribute to his career as a citizen, and is evidence of the great esteem in which he is held by his fellow citizens. Mr. Risser is now the secretary and is a member of the board of directors of the Farmers Bank- ing Company, of Pandora, and gives to this business a share of his per- sonal attention. William Martin Risser is a man who is highly respected by his fellow citizens and is honored for his industry, good business man- agement and square dealing. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 363 HENRY MOENING. Every nation on the earth has contributed its quota to the population of the United States, but no nation has furnished better citizens for our country than has Germany. Thousands of its best citizens have come to this country and become valuable members of the various communities in which they have settled. Putnam county, Ohio, has attracted many of these citizens and hundreds of their descendants are now living v\rithin its borders. Henry Moening, the son of John Henry and Mary (Recker) Moening, was born on January i, 1838, on a farm about one and one-half miles south of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, on section 33. His parents were both born in Germany, his father being born in Ausnabruk, and his mother in the same locality. John Henry Moening was reared in Germany and came to America in the early thirties and located at Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he worked for a year on the Wabash and Erie Canal. His wife, Mary Recker, and her two brothers came across the ocean at the same time, when she cooked for the workmen on the canal. One of her brothers, Louis, lived near Glan- dorf, Putnam county, Ohio, and at her brother's home, she and Mr. Moening were married. After their marriage, they moved to the farm where Henry Moening was born, and there John H. Moening and his wife spent the remainder of their lives. They started with a little farm of forty acres, principally covered with forest trees, and by hard work and good manage- ment, they have accumulated a farm of three hundred acres. Henry Moening had a brother, Herman, and a sister, Mary, both of whom are deceased. He was reared on the farm where he was born and lived on this farm continuously for seventy-six years. Being the only child, he inherited his father's farm and made it his home until the fall of 1914, when he retired and moved into Glandorf, where he is now living. He has sold his farm in order that he might not have the burden of caring for it and having it on his hands during his declining years. Henry Moening was married, in 1859, to Elizabeth Ellerbrock. She was born at Glandorf, in Hanover, Germany, and when six months of age, came with her parents, Theodore and Katherine (Kracht) Ellerbrock, to this county, the family arriving here in 1836. The Ellerbrock family are re- sponsible for the name of the village, Glandorf, in this county, that being their native town in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Moening have reared a family of seven children, John, 364 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. who married Elizabeth Uphaus and has nine children; Herman, of Putnam county, who married Elizabeth Brockman and has four children living and one deceased; Barney, of Ottawa, who married Theresa Hueve and has five children; Henry, who died at the age of twenty-two; Theodore, who mar- ried Matilda Brockman and left five children at his death, April 6, 1914;. WiUiam, who died at the age of eighteen; Mary, who lives in Glandorf with her father. The mother of these children died on September 16, 1907, at the age of seventy-two. Five of Mr. Moening's children are married and have families of their own. Here are presented the grandchildren of Mr. Moening: The children of John: Elizabeth, Caroline, Clara, Lucy, Gertrude, John, Frances, Law- rence and Agnes. The children of Herman: Herman, Romanus, Sylvester, Laura and Catherine, deceased. The children of Barney: Veronica, Harry, Joseph, Alfred, Leo and Philomina, who died in infancy. The children of Theodore: Lavina, Adeline, Amanda, Clarence and Hilarius. Mr. Moening and his family are loyal members of the Catholic church and deeply interested in its welfare and generous contributors to its main- tenance. He is a Democrat and, while interested in everything which pertains, to good government, has never taken an active part in political affairs. Mr. Moening is one of the grand old pioneers of the county and has always lived a clean and wholesome life, and richly merits the high esteem in which he is held by everyone who knows him. ORREN EUGENE TOWNSEND. The character of a community is determined, in a large measure, by the lives of a comparatively few of its members. H its moral and intellectual status is good; if, in a social way, it is a pleasant place to reside; if its repu- tation, as to the integrity of its citizens, has extended to another locality, it will be found that the standards set by the leading business men have been high, and their influence tends to mold the character and shape the lives of those with whom they mingle. In placing the late Orren Eugene Townsend in the front ranks of such men, justice is rendered to a man, universally recognized throughout the locality, long honored by his citizenship as one who stood for all good things. Although a quiet and unassuming man, with no- ambition for public position or leadership, he contributed much to the civic and moral advancement of his community. The admirable qualities of head and heart and the straightforward, upright course of his daily life, won PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 365 for him the esteem and confidence of the circle in which he moved. Al- though he is now sleeping the sleep of the just, his influence still lives and his memory is revered, not alone by his widow and children, but by the circle of men and women who knew him and who loved him for his true worth. Orren Eugene Townsend was born on January 8, 1859, at Bluffton, Ohio. He was the son of Ira M. and Catherine M. (Thompson) Townsend. Orren Eugene Townsend grew up at Bluffton, attending the public schools of that place and the Ohio Northern University, at Ada, where he ■obtained a splendid education. After leaving college, Mr. Townsend en- gaged in the lumber business in Bluffton, and, with his brother and father, conducted a saw-mill until 1887. He then moved to Leipsic, Putnam county, in 1887, and operated a planing-mill at that place until two years before his death, first, with his father, and later, in partnership with John Zahrend ■and a Mr. Kober. These men did business under the firm name of Leipsic Lumber Company. Mr. Townsend moved to Irvine, Kentucky, in the spring •of 1899, where his company had opened a saw-mill along the Kentucky river. Here they were able to get their lumber from the source of supply and to eliminate the middle man. Mr. Townsend died there on May 10, 1901. Mr. Townsend was a public-spirited citizen and, throughout his life was one of the foremost citizens in the improvement of Leipsic. He was progressive in his work and built one of the handsomest homes in Leipsic. Through his efforts were due the erection of many excellent business build- ings, among them the Townsend block, one of the best in the city. He was -a faithful husband, a kind father, an obliging neighbor, and a zealous Chris- tian, in the practical sense of the word. Mr. Townsend was a devout mem- ber of the Methodist church and, throughout his life, was active in the church and Sunday school. At his death he was survived by a widow and three children, Leila, Harry and Grace, all of whom live at home with Mrs. Townsend. Harry has a large garage and is in the automobile business. Mrs. Townsend, before her marriage, was Jennie E. Hall. She married Mr. Townsend, December 16, 1879. She was born at Gilboa, in this county and is the daughter of John F. and Nancy J. (Hoagland) Hall. John F. Hall was born, at Gilboa, and was the son of Samuel, who was a prominent pioneer citizen of Putnam county. He came to Blanchard town- ship in 1832, from Jackson township, Muskingum county, and was the second settler in that township. The county was then a wilderness, but here he and the Hickerson family, who came with him, lived a week in one cabin till each could raise a small cabin for their respective families. Indians 366 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. passed every day and night and sometimes came to the cabin in large crowds to trade. Ah had to be fed liberaUy when they came, and some of them would drink seven or eight cups of tea or coffee. This story is told, how- ever, in the historical section of this volume. The first sermon preached in this county was preached in Samuel Hall's cabin, two years after the Halls moved here. Samuel Hall's wife was Martha Wamsley, the daughter of John and Mary (Robinson) Wamsley. Mary Robinson was the daugh- ter of William Robinson, who, at the time of the Indian war, was taken prisoner by Chief Logan and his men and brought to Ohio, where he was kept a prisoner for four months. He moved his family in 1800, including his wife and ten children, all of whom were married and had children of their own, to a place where he had been imprisoned. The family moved at once from Clarksburg, Harrison county, A^irginia, upon pack horses, entered a large tract of land on the Muskingum river. Samuel Hall was born in Morgantown, Virginia, in 1803, and at the age of three years, he and his 'parents came to Licking county, where he was married on April 14, 1824. In the fall of 1831 he selected a farm site in the wilderness, in Blanchard township, comprising one hundred and seventy-five acres. He moved here in the spring of 1832, and in nearly every direction there were no neighbors for twenty miles.. His son, John F Hall, married Nancy Hoagland on May 15, 1857. He died on November 11, 1862, leaving three daughters, Mrs. H. L. Hunter, Mrs. O. E. Townsend and Mrs. John Zahrend. After Mr. Hall's death, his widow married H. J. Call and spent her last years in Bluffton. She was a faithful and conscientious member of the Methodist church and active in the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. Reverting to Orren E. Townsend's history, it may be said that his father, Ira M. Townsend, was born on November 19, 1833, in Franklin county. New York and died at Bluffton, Ohio, in January 11, 191 1, at the age of seventy-seven. Ira M. Townsend came from an old colonial family of English Puritan stock. His father, Appleton Townsend, was the son of a Revolutionary soldier, who married Roxie Fields, of Franklin county, New York. When Ira M. Townsend was eight years old he was brought by his parents to Ohio and learned the saddler's trade, in Knox and Hardin coun- ties. He worked at his trade in Bluffton twelve years and located there, in 1852. He was married at Jamestown, New York, October 29, 1852, to Catherine Thompson, a native of New York. He engaged in the milling business in partnership with E. N. Woodford, in 1853, but for one year, however, Mr. Townsend was not actively engaged in business. During the years 1865 and 1866 he engaged in the milling business, in Michigan, and. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 067 after his return to Bluffton, entered the saw-mill business again. This time his mill was blown up by a boiler explosion and after it was rebuilt, fire de- stroyed it in 1887. He rebuilt it a second time, in 1896, but again it was destroyed by fire. His determination was invincible, and he rebuilt again.. He conducted the mill until 1904 and then sold out to the Bluff^ton Turned Goods Company and continued with this firm, as president of the company,, until his death. At the time of his death, Mr. Townsend was the oldest mem- ber of his lodge of Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was a member of the Methodist church from his youth and was always an upright, sin- cere, Christian man, liberal in his donations and ever willing to help his- church and other denominations as well. He was very widely known and a man of sterling character and the qualities of heart which won for him the deep respect and friendship of all with whom he came in contact Born of such a father, it is not to be wondered that the late Orren- Eugene Townsend was a man known and respected among men. Many of his good traits he inherited from his father, but in preserving these traits, he deserves credit for being the worthy son of a good father. WALTER S. STEVENSON. One of the younger lawyers of Putnam county, Ohio, is Walter S. Stevenson, who has been engaged in the practice of his profession in this- county at Leipsic since 1907. Graduating from the law school in 1904 he was admitted to the bar in the same year and practiced at North Baltimore until he came to Leipsic in April, 1907, to become a member of the law firm of I^ower & Stevenson. This firm also deals in insurance, real estate, loans and bonds. ^Walter S. Stevenson, the son of Isaiah B. and Mary (Epler) Steven- son, was born in Henry county, Ohio, May 2, 1882. His father was born in Henry county, Ohio, in 1854, and was a son of Enoch G. and Anna ( Racier) Stevenson. Enoch G. Stevenson was born in Franklin county, Ohio, south of Columbus, in 1820, and during his youth lived near Colum- bus Grove in Putnam county, but was married in Henry county. The grand- father of Enoch G. Stevenson came form England where he still remembers seeing his grandfather's uniform and sword. Family tradition says that this grandfather was a colonel in the British army, but was discharged from the service by Lord Howe, because he refused to fight the American colonists, Isaiah B. Stevenson spent all but the last few years of his life in .368 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Henry county, Ohio on a farm. During twenty-two winters he taught school in that county and thousands of children came under his instruc- tions during that long period. His wife, Mary Epler, was born in Shelby ■county, Ohio, and was a daughter of Peter and Rachel (Ward) Epler. Peter Epler was native of Shamokin, Pennsylvania, and Rachel Ward was irom New Jersey. Her grandfather was in the American Revolution. Walter S. Stevenson was reared to manhood on his father's farm in Henry county. After finishing the common and high school courses of his county, he became a student in Defiance College, remaining there for one year, when he went to Ada, Ohio, where he spent four years, completing the rscientific and law courses in that excellent institution. He received the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Laws degrees, completing his law course in the spring of 1904. In the same spring he was admitted to the practice of law, and hung out his shingle at North Baltimore, Ohio. Here he remained until 1907, when he came to Leipsic to make his permanent home. Mr. Stevenson was married on April 4, 1905, to Hattie Jaqua, who was born and reared in Hancock county, Ohio, and is a daughter of W. Al- fred and Elizabeth (Wilkinson) Jaqua. Her parents have lived near Ham- ler, Henry county, for a number of years. Her father is a farmer, and has always been engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. Stevenson and his wife have three sons, H. Clinton, William A. and Walter K. Mr. Stevenson is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and the Royal Arch Masons. He is a young man of great energy and ability, and although he has been in this city but a comparatively short time, yet he has already forged to the front at the local bar, and the success which has at- tended his efforts thus far promises a bright future for him. GEORGE HENRY BACH. All of the German citizens, who have made Putnam county their home, have been unusually successful in whatever line of activity they have chosen to engage. George Henry Bach, one of the many farmers of this county who was born in Germany, has accumulated a farm of one hundred and thirty-eight acres in Riley township through his own hard work and good management. While he has been accumulating a comfortable com- petence for himself and 'family, he has also taken an active part in the civic -MK. AM) .M];S. (iKOKiJE II. ItACII. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 369 life of the community and has held various official positions, with honor to himself and credit to his fellow citizens. George Henry Bach, the son of John George and Catherine (Becker) Bach, was born on January i, 1850, in Bavaria, Germany. His father, who was a son of John Thomas Bach and wife, was born in Bavaria on Febru- ary 7, 182 1, and came to America in January, 185 1. John George Bach was married in Germany and three of his children, including George Henry, were born in the Fatherland. He first settled in New Jersey, and two years later moved with his family to Hancock county, ■where he located in Arcadia. There he leased a few acres of land, which he cleared for the rental. He later rented a couple of farms and, after about eight years, moved to Van Buren township, Putnam county, Ohio, where he arrived on April 10, 1861. He bought forty acres of farm land, which he cleared, and later added eighty acres more. John Thomas Bach .and wife only lived in Ohio about two or three years, and then returned to New Jersey, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Catherine Bach, the wife of John George, died on July 4, 1868, she and her husband hav- ing reared a family of eight children, Jacob, Mary, George Henry, Thomas, William, Edward, Eva and Daniel H. Jacob died at the age of ten and Edward died at the age of seven. John George Bach was married the sec- ond time to Fredericka Mollenhauer, in 1872, a daughter of Philip Mollen- hauer, and to this second union was born one son, Ludwig Berhard. George Henry Bach was only one year of age when his parents came from Germany to this country. He received his early education in Han- cock and Putnam counties, and from his earliest boyhood worked on his father's farm. He remained at his home until he was twenty years of age and then worked for two years in his home neighborhood. He next went to Cleveland and worked for three years in a dairy. He followed this with •eight years' work in Iowa. In that state he worked out for four years, and then, with his brother, bought one hundred and thirty-four acres, which he farmed for four years. He then disposed of his interests in the Iowa farm and returned to Putnam county, Ohio, where he bought fifty-five acres near the old home farm. To this he later added thirty-eight acres adjoining, as well as forty-five acres near the village of Townwood. Mr. Bach has been a very successful farmer, has given particular attention to live stock rais- ing, and has a fine herd of Shorthorn and Polled-Durham cattle. This farm is well improved, and under his skillful management, is yielding sat- isfactory returns, year after year. 24 37^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Bach was married on October i6, 1883, to Sarah Catherine Smith, a daughter of Henry and Albertina (Tegler) Smith. She was born near Fostoria, Hancock county, Ohio, October 16, 1856. Her parents were born in Mecklenburg, Germany, and came to America, about 1854, locating imme- diately in Hancock county, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Her father died there, October 4, 1897, at the age of seventy-four years, and her mother passed away, on January 15, 1896, at the age of sixty-seven years and four months. Mr. and Mrs. Smith were the parents of seven children, Sarah Catherine, William Frederick, George Henry, Sophia Lou- isa, John Wilson, Mary Cordelia, and one who died in infancy. Mr. Bach and his wife are the parents of four children, Cordelia Elvira, Tena Al- berta, Viola and Katie L. Tena Alberta, who died on January 16, 1912, left her husband, John W. Miller, with one daughter, Florence Edna. The other three children are single and still living with their parents. Mr. Bach and his family are loyal members of the Presbyterian church. He has served as trustee of his denomination and is now an elder in the church. He has given his support to the Democratic party and has served on the school board of his township. Mr. Bach is a man of excellent char- acter and is highly esteemed throughout the community where he has made his home for so many years. JOSEPH NIENBERG. Since 1858, Joseph Nienberg has been a resident of Putnam county, Ohio, and has spent his whole career, in Glandorf, since locating in the county. He learned the tinner's trade when a young man and followed that vocation until he was about thirty-five years of age. Later he engaged m the hardware business, and as he prospered from year to year, added various other departments to his store, until he now has three separate stores in Glandorf. An interesting feature of the success of Mr. Nienberg is the fact that seven of his eight children are partners in the business. Joseph Nienberg, the son of B. H. and Angela (Sprehe) Flerkinhoff- Nienberg, was born in Minster, Auglaize county, Ohio, in 1843. His father was born in Hanover, Germany, and was probably about twenty years of age when he came to America, and located at Minster, in Auglaize county, Ohio. B. H. Nienberg started in as a farm hand after locating in Auglaize PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. oyj county, and, after his marriage, engaged in the mercantile business in con- nection with which he ran a bakery. He was in business in Minster, Ohio, until his death. The wife of B. H. Nienberg was born in Ausnabruk' Germany, and was married in her native land to H. Herkinoff, and came with him to America and located at Minster, where he died, leaving her with two sons, Herman and Frank. To her second marriage, to Mr. Nienberg, were born six children, Mary, Joseph, William, Annie, Agnes and Dine. Joseph Nienberg was reared, until he was fifteen years of age, in A/[in- ster, and there received a good common school education. He came to Glan- dorf, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1858 and made his home with his aunt, Mrs. Henry Wedaking. After coming to Glandorf he learned the tinner's trade, and followed it for many years. He went into the tinner business for himself about 1861, to which he added a stock of stoves. He started a dry goods store about 1870,' and has operated it ever since. He and Joseph Thome, his brother-in-law, started a hardware store in 1894, which they continued in partnership until 1898, when Mr. Thome died. Mr. Nienberg then continued the business alone until 1909, when he took several of his children into partnership with him. He added a furniture store in 191 o, so that the family now have three separate stores in Glandorf, a hardware store, a dry goods and general merchandise establishment, and a furniture store. These stores do a big business in Glandorf, and the surrounding community, and it is safe to say that Mr. Nienberg does more business than any other man in the village. Joseph Nienberg has been twice married. He was first married, in 1866, to Annie C. Kemper, who was born in Glan- dorf, the daughter of B. H. Kemper and wife. Mr. Kemper was a native of Germany and located in Glandorf about a year after the village was estab- lished. He first took a contract to build a part of the old Ohio canal, and after that operated a store in Glandorf and farmed. The first wife of Mr Nienberg died about fifteen years after her marriage, leaving no children Mr. Nienberg married Veronica Thome in 1881. She was a native of Glandorf and is a daughter of Nicholas and Agatha TBockhold) Thome early settlers in Glandorf. Her father was a wagonmaker and, in the early days, made cradles for cradling wheat. Mr. and Mrs. Thome spent the re mainder of their lives in Glandorf. To the second marriage of Mr Nien- berg have been born seven sons and one daughter, Benjamin A., who mar- ried Juha Borman, and has four sons, Carl, Harold, Paul and John- Hany who first married Frances Smith, and after her death, Dalia Rampe' who is the mother of one son, Walter; Joseph F., who married Maggie Unverferth and has one daughter, Frances; Edward, who married Clara Geier, and has 372 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. two sons, George and Raymond, and four children who are single, Oscar, Mary, Frank and William. The last two boys are twins. All of the chil- dren are now partners with their father in business, except Edward, who runs the home farm of eighty-three acres, near Glandorf. The Nienberg family are all loyal members of the Catholic church at Glandorf, and are interested in its welfare and are generous contributors to its support. AUGUST NARTKER. For more than two score years, August Nartker has been identified with the history of Putnam county, Ohio, and since 1900, has been in the tile business in Glandorf. His father was a native of Germany and an early settler of Putnam county, Ohio, where he came with his parents in the early history of the county. Mr. Nartker spent his early manhood in a newspaper office, and also farmed a few years before engaging in his present business. August Nartker, the son of Henry and Thresia (Vorderlandwehr) Nartker, was born in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, April 8, 1874. His parents reared a family of ten children, four sons and six daughters, Henry, Mrs. Bernardine Winkelman, Mrs. Mary Wishmeyer, of Michigan; Mrs. Anna Schroeder, Frank, August, William (deceased in 1912), Mrs. Minnie Horstman (deceased), Mrs. Emma Maas and Mrs. Lena Fortman. Henry Nartker was born in Glandorf, Hanover, Germany in 1837 and came to America in his boyhood days with his parents, Theodore Nart- ker and wife, who located about one and one-half miles west of Glandorf, where he lived the remainder of his life. Thresia Vorderlandwehr, the mother of August Nartker, was born at Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, June 14, 1844, a daughter of Herman and Thresia Vorderlandwehr, who were born, reared and married in Germany, and were early settlers in Put- nam county, Ohio. Henry Nartker farmed just west of Glandorf, in this county, all of his life, his death occurring there on March 28, 1909. His widow is still living on the farm at Glandorf, where she has resided ever since her marriage. August Nartker grew up on his father's farm and at the age of six- teen, began working in newspaper offices. He worked on Der Demokrat, at Ottawa, from 1890 to 1896. The next four years were spent on the home farm and in 1900, after his marriage, he went into partnership with PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 'ty-y his brother-in-law, W. F. Schroeder, and bought -the tile factory of Winkle- man & Ellis, at Glandorf, where they have continued this business down to the present time, and have built up a large trade throughout the county. For about ten years they made brick as well as tile, but now are devoting all of their time and attention to the manufacture of tile. Mr. Nartker was married on October 9, 1900, to A^erona Horstman, who was born at Glandorf, and is a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Deeters) Horstman. To this union have been born two children, Mary and Alphonse. Joseph Horstman, the father of Mrs. Nartker, was born in Glandorf, Germany, and when a young man came to America and located in Cincin- nati. He came to Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1872, and married Mary Deeters, who was born at Glandorf, in this county, her father being one of the earliest settlers. Mr. Horstman was a blacksmith at Glandorf, and operated his shop until about seven years ago, when he retired from active life and now lives with his son-in-law, Mr. Nartker. Mr. Nartker is a Democrat, and has always taken an active interest m the life of his community in every way. He has been a councilman of Glandorf for the past eight years, and has always given his hearty support to every measure which he felt would be of benefit to his village. He and his family are loyal members of the Catholic church at Glandorf, and also hold membership in the St. Paul's and St. John's aid societies. JOHN E. REINMAN. John E. Reinman is a plain, honest man of affairs who, by correct methods and a strict regard for square dealing, has made his influence felt in Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio. He has won for himself a distinctive prestige in the business circles of this city. Mr. Reinman would be the last man to become the subject of fancy eulogy but, nevertheless, his life pre- sents much that is interesting and valuable and may be studied with profit by the young men of the rising generation. Mr. Reinman is one of those, whose integrity and strength of character stand out as shining examples for young men at the beginning of their careers. He commands the respect of his contemporaries and people know him as one who can be thoroughly depended upon to do just what he promises. John E. Reinman was born on July 17, 1862, at Tiffin, Ohio, and is the son of Lawrence and Caroline (Youngblood) Reinman. Lawrence Remman was bom in Bavaria and came to America when about twenty- 374 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. one years old. He located at Tiffin, and there learned the carpenter's trade, and followed it until 1873 when he moved to New Cleveland, in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio. He then bought a farm just east of New Cleveland and here he lived for about twenty years. At the end of this period he moved to the home of his son, John E., who was then living west of New Cleveland. There he and his wife spent the rest of their lives. He died on January 17, 19 10, at the age of eighty- two. Previous to his death his wife died about 1905. Caroline Youngblood was born in Prussia and came to America when eighteen or twenty years old, locating at Tiffin, where she was married. Mr. and Mrs. Reinman were the parents of seven chil- dren, Catherine, deceased; Lawrence, of Tiffin, Ohio; Joseph, of New Cleve- land; John E., of Ottawa; Mary, the wife of Henry Koch, of New Cleve- land; Rose, deceased, and Anna, the wife of John Wischmeyer, of Bryan, Ohio. John E. Reinman lived at home until he grew up and married. When a young man he learned the carpenter trade with his father, but early in his life began farming. He purchased ^ farm of seventy acres just west of New Cleveland and lived there until October, 1913, when he purchased a lot and built a residence in Ottawa. Here he has resided since that time. He still owns his farm, however, but now engages in carpentry and building. Mr. Reinman was married to Rose Kihm in 1888, who was bom in Blanchard township and who is the daughter of John and Rose (Lawrence) Kihm. Mrs. Reinman's father was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1838, and came to America at the age of eight years with his parents, John Peter and Mary Kihm. They settled at New Washington, Ohio, and came to Putnam county about 1856. They were pioneer settlers in Blanchard town- ship and John Kihm was a farmer all of his life. He died on the farm in Blanchard township in 1898. Mr. Kihm's wife. Rose Lawrence, was born at Norwalk, Huron county, Ohio, and was the daughter of John and Mary Lawrence. She lived in Huron county until her marriage and is now living at Leipsic, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Reinman are the parents of two children, Edward J. and Ida Rose. Edward J. married Ida Weot, of Tiffin, Ohio, and lives on his father's farm near New Cleveland and has one boy, Ralph John. Ida Rose is still at home. For the past seven years, Mr. Reinman has been trustee of Ottawa township. He was a director on the school board for fifteen years. Mr. Reinman is an ardent Democrat and never misses an election. He is one of the best workers for the principles of the Democratic party and the sue- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 375 ■cess of its candidates to be found in all Putnam county. Mr. Reinman is a natural-born reader of men, and his influence is keenly felt in Ottawa township where he now lives. The Reinman family are all members of the Catholic church and de- vout in the faith. As a carpenter and builder, Mr. Reinman is well known and enjoys the confidence of all with whom he has ever had any business dealings. JOHN W. WINKLER. The whole career of John W. Winkler has been spent in Leipsic, where he was born a half century ago. His father dying when he was about twelve years of age he was thrown upon his own resources, and early in life he be-' gan an independent career for himself. When he was twenty-six years of age he started in business in Leipsic and for nearly a quarter of a century has been engaged in the shoe business in that place. John W. Winkler, the son of John and Mary (Stritt) Winkler, was -born in 1865, at West Leipsic, Ohio. John Winkler, Sr., was born in 1839, in Buerstadt, in Hessen Darmstadt, Germany, and came to America when about fifteen years of age with his brothers and located at Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio. As a youth he had learned the shoemaker's trade in his native land and on reaching his maturity in this county he continued in that busi- ness, to which he added a general store. At the opening of the Civil War John Winkler, Sr., enlisted in the Ninety-ninth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was seriously wounded at the battle of Stone River. He lived nearly twelve years after the war closed with a minnie ball in his left lung. The bullet lay next to his heart and affected it in such a way that his death ultimately resulted in 1876. It was found out after his death that the lung was rotted away from the effects of the ball and his son, John W., now has the minnie ball as a relic. John Winkler, Sr., was married in this county to Mary Stritt, a daugh- ter of Benjamin and Maria Stritt. The Stritt family came from Germany, probably before 1850, and settled on a farm south of Ottawa, where Oliver Weaver is now living. There the Stritt family spent the remainder of their days. The first wife of John Winkler, Sr., died when the son, John W., was about four years of age, leaving her husband with three children, John W., Mrs. Mary Pettit, and one who died in infancy, the mother dying at the time the third child was born. After the death of his first wife, John Wink- ler, Sr., married Louisa Stritt, a sister of his first wife, and to this second 376 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. marriage three children were born, Charles A., Louis F., and Mrs. Celia Ward. ■', John W. Winkler was about thirteen years of age when his father died, and the boy soon began to shift for himself. He started in the shoe- business in Leipsic about 1891, and has gradually built up his store and increased his trade in the city and surrounding community. He now carries a large and well-selected stock of boots and shoes, and such sundries as are usually found in shoe stores. He is a man of excellent business judgment and is now numbered among the prosperous business men of Leipsic. John W. Winkler was married on February 14, 1893, to Josephine B. Phipps, who was born near Monroeville, Allen county, Indiana, and is a daughter of William L. and Hannah (Leonard) Phipps. Her father was- born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and her mother in Ross county, Ohio. Her father was a stave factory man and came to Belmore, Putnam county, Ohio, with a Mr. Williamson, about 1871, before the village of Belmore was in existence. Mr. Williamson started a stave factory in that place and Mr. Phipps became the foreman and lived at Belmore the remainder of his life. Mrs. Phipps is now living in Leipsic. Mr. Winkler is a loyal member of the Catholic church, and a generous- contributor to its support. He is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He gives his support to the Democratic party, but has never taken an active part in its councils. He is a man interested in everything pertaining to the advancement of his community, and his support for alL public welfare measures is always heartily given. DAVID C. SHANK. The standing of any community depends, to a great extent, upon the character of the business men who are a part of it. If a community is so for- tunate as to entertain keen and progressive business men, of high integrity, who are thoroughly alive to every opportunity for legitimate business, that community is, inevitably, one of prosperity. In this respect, Riley town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio, is fortunate in numbering among its citizens, many men of the most up-to-date type, among whom is the subject of this, sketch, David C. Shank, president of the D. C. Shank Company, which operates a saw-mill, planing-mill, lumber yard and electric light plant, and who occupies a high place among the foremost citizens of his community. David C. Shank was born, in Allen county, Ohio, December 8, 1869,. DAVID C. SHANK. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 377- a son of John and Nancy (Gulp) Shank. John Shank was born in Ma- honing county, formerly Columbiana county, Ohio, December 14, 1836, a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Bear) Shank. Henry Shank was born in Rock- ingham county, Virginia, October 17, 1808, a son of John Shank and wife, whose maiden name was Wenger. It is said that John Shank once stated that his great-grandfather came from Germany and that the family name was originally Schenk. John Shank, the subject's great-grandfather, came from Virginia to Ohio, with his faniily, in 1835. His wife died about fourteen years pre- vious to this time, or when Henry Shank was eleven years of age. John had married a second time, and it was his second wife who migrated to Ohio with him. At the same time there came the subject's grandfather, his brother, Michael, and two sisters, Barbara and Esther. One sister, Annie, had died in Virginia. David C. Shank's great-grandfather, John, and his grandfather, Henry, were coopers, by trade, and they also owned and operated a farm while in Virginia. John Shank bought a farm in Mahoning county, where he lived until the time of his death, in about 1850. In the spring of 1840, Henry Shank migrated from Mahoning county to Richland township, Putnam county, later Allen county, and entered one hundred and twenty acres of government land. The deed to the land was. signed by President Martin Van Buren, and is yet in the possession of the subject's father, John Shank. The land remained in the possession of Henry Shank and his son, John, until 1913, when it was sold to David W. Basinger and Edward Laibe, the only transfer that had been made since the time the original entry was made. Henry Shank cleared this virgin land, and built upon it a log cabin. From year to year he succeeded gradually in clearing more of the land, with the help of his father, John Shank, who rendered considerable asssistance, as soon as he had reached the age when he could work in the woods. It is said that when a young man, John Shank could wield an axe to better advantage than any other man in the vicinity. Henry Shank lived on his homestead until October 21, 1905, when he died at the ripe old age of ninety-seven. John Shank was three years old when he came with his parents to Put- nam county. He grew to manhood on the home farm and had no chance to go to school until he was eleven years of age. At that time he managed to attend the district school, for a month or two each winter, for a few years. When he was thirty years of age, he married Nancy Gulp, Decemljer 19, 1867,. 378 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. a daughter of Christian and Elizabeth (Good) Gulp, who was born on Janu- ary 14, 1845- Christian Gulp, maternal grandfather of David C. Shank, was born in Virginia on March 20, 1815, and settled in Ohio in 1850. He located first in Fairfield county, but later moved to Allen county. Elizabeth Good was born on June i, 181 3, a daughter of Joseph and Magdalene Good. They were both natives of Virginia and came to Ohio in the early days of this county and settled in Fairfield county. Joseph Good died in Fairfield •county on February 7, 1848; his wife then came to Allen . county, where she lived until the time of her death, at the home of her daughter, Elizabeth (Good) Gulp. After his marriage, John Shank continued to operate his father's farm, and lived there until January 17, 191 3, when the farm was sold. To Mr. and Mrs. John Shank were born seven children as follow : David G, the sub- ject; Lizzie A., born on July 20, 1871, the wife of Amos Augsberger; Sophia F., born on October 15, 1873, ^'^^ t^e wife of Rufus Basinger; Christian, born on May 14, 1875, who married Rachel Witmer; Emma J., born on August 24, 1877, the wife of Peter W. Amstutz, and who died on January 31, 1904; Mary E., born on June 30, 1879, who is unmarried; Nan- nie A., who was born on October 2, 1885, and who died May 6, 1893, at the age of seven years, two months and four days. John Shank conducted the home farm, as a general farm, and also did an extensive business in cattle and hogs. He moved to Pandora, January 17, 19 1 3, after having retired from farming, where he now lives. He and Mrs. Shank are both members of the Mennonite Zion church. David C. Shank was born on the old homestead, which had been set- tled by his grandfather, and there grew to manhood. As a boy, he attended the district school, and worked on the home farm until he was twenty-one years of age. He married Fannie Basinger, April 14, 1892, a daughter of Abraham and Catherine (Gratz) Basinger. To this union were born three children, Cora, Eunice and Irma. Mrs. Shank, wife of David C. Shank, died on February 28, 1901. She was a good Christian character, an affectionate wife, a loving mother, and was an active member of the Mennonite church. Mr. Shank married again, November 15. 1903, his second wife being Mary Schumacher, who was born on July 24, 1880, a daughter of John and Barbara (Geiger) Schumacher, both of whom were of pioneer families and ■of Swiss origin. To this union have been born two children, Olive and Alice. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 379 When he was twenty-one years of age, Mr. Shank entered upon an inde- pendent business career. His first venture was a saw-mill, in the timber land, a business which he has continued, practically, ever since. He is now president of the D. C. Shank Company, which conducts a saw-mill, planing- tnill, lumber yard and electric light plant, in Pandora, Riley township, Putnam county. He is doing an extensive business and is one of the prominent fig- ures in the business life of his community. Mr. Shank is nominally a rhember of the Democratic party, but he has always taken an intelligent interest in political matters and is an independent Toter, following the dictates of his own judgment, rather than party desires. Both Mr. and Mrs. Shank are members of the Grace Mennonite church, and are active in church work. Mr. Shank is an energetic and progressive business man of unquestioned integrity, and is highly respected by all who have come in contact with him. AUGUST STECHSCHULTE. A native of this county and a resident here for more than half a century, August Stechschulte has been prominently identified with the history of Putnam county. Beginning the tailor's trade at the age of seventeen he has made it his life work, and for more than thirty years he has been engaged in the tailoring and clothing business in Leipsic. He has always taken a deep interest in the civic. life of his community and has held several town- ship and city offices, with universal satisfaction. He has the unique record of being appointed sergeant-at-arms of the General Assembly of Ohio when he was only twenty-two years of age and it is probable that he is the young- est man who has ever held this position in the state. August Stechschulte, the son of Henry and Bertha (Kahle) Stech- schulte, was born in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1862. His father was born in Glandorf, Germany, in 1825, and came to America in 1833 with his parents and located in Putnam county, in Ottawa township. He arrived in this county about two months after Professor Horstman had settled with his colony, of emigrants from Germany. Henry Stechschulte was about eight years of age when his parents came from Germany to this county, and consequently received part of his education in his native land. After completing his schooling in this county he remained at home until he was grown. He then went to Cincinnati and learned the cooper's trade, and in 1854 was married to Bertha Kahle, who 380 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. was born in Greensburg township, in this county, a daughter of I. H. Kahle, whose history elsewhere in this vohime gives the main facts concerning the Kahle family. Mr. Kahle was one of the pioneers who came to this county with Professor Horstman in 1833, and walked with the party of emigrants from Detroit to this county and helped to found the village of Glandorf. After his marriage Henry Stechschulte spent the remainder of his life on a farm on the line between Ottawa and Greensburg townships. He died about 1908, his wife having passed away two years earlier. Henry Stechschulte and his wife celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 1904, at which there were forty-five grandchildren present. Six sons and two daughters were born to Henry Stechschulte and wife, Ignatius, who was a former commissioner of this county, and now a resident of Owosso, Michigan; Joseph, a farmer of Union township; Frank, also a farmer living in Union township; August, of Leipsic; Barney, a farmer of Liberty township; Henry A., who is living on the old home farm; Bertha, the widow of William Hoffman, who lives in Pleasant township, and Theresia Klausing, who died on April i, 1908. August Stechschulte remained on the farm until he was seventeen years of age and then began to learn the tailor's trade. When he was only twenty-two years of age in 1882 he started in the tailoring and clothing busi- ness at Leipsic, and has been in the business continuously since that year. He was sergeant-at-arms of the sixt)'-sixth General Assembly of Ohio in 1884 and 1885, and filled the duties of this arduous position to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. He has been a life-long Democrat, and has served as township clerk, township treasurer, corporation treasurer and city councilman, and in all of these positions rendered his fellow citizens faith- ful and efficient service. He takes a genuine interest in the civic life of the community in which he has resided so many years and never fails to give his hearty support to all measures of general welfare. Mr. Stechschulte was married in 1886 to Anna Rampe, the daughter of William and Thresia (Ellerbrock) Rampe, and to this union have been born four sons and three daughters, Amelia, Adolph, Victor, Clarence, Mary Agnes and Norbert. Adolph, who married Gertrude Graney, of Columbus' IS a partner with his father in the tailoring and clothing business All of the other children are still single and living at home. Mrs. Stechschulte's father was born m Glandorf, Germany, and was a pioneer shoemaker in Glandorf, m this county. He built up a large industry for a town of this size, at one time having from fifteen to twenty men working under him, mak- ing shoes. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 381 Mr. Stechschulte and his family are loyal members of the Catholic church. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, and one of his sons, Victor, is a member of the Society of Jesus. Mr. Stechschulte is a wide- awake, genial and courteous man and is one of the best known citizens of the community. JOHN E. ROOSE. The present auditor of Putnam county, Ohio, John E. Roose, was born, reared and has been a life-long resident of this county. His father was a pioneer resident and settled here in Jennings township when the land which he entered from the government was covered with a dense growth of timber. Mr. Roose is a man who has been prominently identified with the history of his county for many years. As a young man he taught schools for five years, and followed this with several years in the drug business. Ten more years were spent as cashier of the Peoples Bank at Kalida, while since 191 1 he has been the auditor of his county. As a public servant of his fellow citizens, he is now administering the duties of his office in a very ■efficient and painstaking manner. John E. Roose, the son of Henry and Elizabeth (Diller) Roose, was born in Jennings township, Putnam county, Ohio, September 4, 1869. His father was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, and came here from Allen ■county, this state, where he had married Elizabeth Diller. She was a native of Pennsylvania. Henry Roose and his wife located in Jennings township when it was an unbroken forest. He entered land from the government and started in to make a home for himself and family. He cleared away a large enough space on which to build a rude log cabin and with the assistance of his wife and children as they grew up, he eventually had a farm which provided a •comfortable living for the family. Six children were born to Henry Roose and wife, two of whom died in infancy, Barbara, who died in 1912, was the wife of John Lawyer, a farmer of Jennings township; Peter, of Marion, Michigan; George W., a farmer of Jackson township, and John E., who is now living in the county seat. John E. Roose received his elementary education in the schools of Jennings township, and later attended the Ohio Northern University at Ada, Ohio, for four terms. He then taught school for five years in Sugar Creek and Jennings townships, and gave excellent satisfaction as an instructor of 382 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. the youth. He then moved to Kalida, in this county, and engaged in the drug business in that place for several years. After disposing of his drug business he clerked for two years in the stores of Kalida, and then became the cashier of the Peoples Bank, of that place, holding this position for nearly ten years. His worth as a public citizen and the confidence which the people have in his ability is shown by the fact that he was nominated and elected in the fall of 1910 as auditor of Putnam county. He took his office in the spring of 191 1, and his services were so satisfactory that he was re-elected by his party in the fall of 191 2. He was again a candidate in the fall of 19 14 and was elected to serve another term. Mr. Roose was married in 1892 to Estella C. Conaway. She was bom in Putnam county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Basis C. and Rebecca (Moore) Conaway. Her father was a farmer for many years in this county but is now living a retired life in Findlay, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Roose are the parents of seven children, Fred L., Russell, Grace, Ralph, Elbert, Zella and Lucile. Mr. Roose has always been a Democrat, and has been one of the lead- ers of his party in township and county affairs. He belongs to the Free and Accepted Masons, and also to the council and chapter. He holds his membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, Modern Woodmen of America and the Home Guards. He and his family are all loyal members of the Methodist Episcopal church and gen- erous contributors to its support. Mr. Roose is a self-made man and the prosperity which has come to him is the direct result of his own abilities directed along proper lines. He is a man of sterling integrity and no man m the county stands in higher esteem among his fellow citizens. BERNARD H. HERINGHAUS. The Heringhaus family are of German descent, the parents of Bernard H. Heringhaus coming to this country from Germany in 1867. Four years later his parents located in Putnam county, Ohio, and lived there the re- mainder of their lives. Mr. Heringhaus has had fifteen years of newspaper experience, but for the past few years, has been engaged in the furniture and undertaking business in Ottawa. _ Bernard H. Heringhaus, the son of Rudolph and Christina (Richter- mg) Hennghaus, was born on March 13, 1879, in Ottawa, Putnam county Ohio. His father was born at Oesede, Hanover, Germany, in 1843 and is PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 385 a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Buddlemeyer) Heringhaus. Rudolph Her- inghaus came to America in January, 1867, and located in Cincinnati, and on October 9, of the same year he was married in that city to Christina Rich- tering, who was born in what was Beesten, Hanover, now Kaiserreich, Prussia. She is a daughter of Bernard and Margarite Adelaide (Meerz) Richtering, and was reared in Germany, coming to Cincinnati, Ohio, from, her native land in 1866. Rudolph Heringhaus and wife lived at Cincinnati until 1871, and in that year came to Putnam county, and for three and one-half years lived in Greensburg township, after which time they moved to Ottawa, where they have since resided. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph Heringhaus, Anna, Henry, Catherine, Minnie, Bernard H. and Mary. Anna is the wife of Andrew Roof and has three children, Adelaide^ Edward and Mary. Henry, who is unmarried, makes his home in Ottawa. Catherine is the wife of George C. Laibe and lives in Akron, Ohio. Minnie is the wife of Frank Distel, of Toledo, Ohio, where she died on June 20,. 1912, leaving her husband with two children, Mary and Clara. Mary died at the age of six weeks. He and his family are all loyal members of the Catholic church, while he is a member of the Catholic Knights of Ohio. Bernard Heringhaus grew to manhood in Ottawa and before reaching his majority began to learn the printer's trade in the office of Der Demo- krat. For fifteen years he worked at the newspaper business and became a thorough and practical printer. He then became a partner with Samuel Cartwright in the furniture and undertaking business in Ottawa, and has- since continued along this line of endeavor. He went to Cincinnati and learned the embalming business and was Hcensed as an embalmer on June 20, 1908. Mr. Cartwright remained as his partner less than a year in the business, and was succeeded by F. F. Pope, who, with Mr. Heringhaus,. still continues the business. Mr. Heringhaus has taken a very active part in the civic life of Ottawa. He has served six years as clerk of Ottawa, and served during the time the waterworks was being built. He afterward served for five years as clerk of the waterworks board. He is now a member of the school board of Ot- tawa, and is also a member of the Putnam county school board. He and his family are loyal members of the Catholic church, and he is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Knights of Ohio. Mr. Heringhaus was married on October 18, 1904, to Mary A. Laibe, and to this union have been born three sons, Francis, Cornelius and Robert. Mrs. Heringhaus was born near Gilboa, Putnam county, Ohio, and is 384 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. a daughter of Edmund and Magdalene (Kroft) Laibe, both of her parents being natives of this county. Her mother died in 19 10, and her father, who was a life-long farmer, is now living a retired life in Ottawa. Edmund Laibe was born in Buffalo, New York, November 7, 1855, and was a son of Mark and Catherine' (Benziger) Laibe. His parents came from Bel- fort, Alsace, France, and lived in Brooklyn, New York, for a short time, before locating in Buffalo. Mark Laibe and his family moved to Putnam county, Ohio, about 1856, and located in Pandora, where he operated a blacksmith shop until 1868. In that year Mark Laibe and his family moved to a farm two and one-half miles south of Gilboa, where he lived until Octo- "ber, 1885, when he moved into Ottawa, where he retired and lived until his death April 8, 1899. His wife died on January 27, 1909. Edmund Laibe grew up on his father's farm and married Mary Magdalene Kroft, a daugh- ter of Joseph and Catherine Kroft, who came from Alsace and settled in Putnam county, Ohio. After Edmund Laibe married he began farming about a mile north of the old home place and lived there until 1889, in which year he moved to Ottawa, where he has since resided. He has a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres in the county. Five children were born to Edmund Laibe and wife, Mary Amelia, the wife of B. H. Her- inghaus; William E., George E., Frank F., and Blanche V., the wife of Cornelius H. Ellis. HENRY GRISMORE. The biographies of enterprising men, especially of good men, are in- structive as guides and are incentives to others. The examples they furnish, of patient purpose and steadfast integrity, strongly illustrates what is in the power of each to accomplish. Some men belong to no exclusive class in life. Apparently insurmountable obstacles have in many instances awakened their dormant faculties and served as a stimulus to carry them to ultimate re- nown. The instances of success in the face of adversity almost justifies the conclusion that self-reliance, with half a chance, can accomplish any rea- sonable object. The gentleman, whose life story is here set out, is a man who has lived to good purpose and achieved a splendid success. By a straight- forward and commendable course, he has made his way to a respectable po- sition in the world, winning the hearty admiration of the people in his com- munity, and earning the reputation of being a progressive man of affairs, which the public has not been slow to recognize and appreciate. Henry Grismore, the subject of this sketch, was born on October 24, IIFXrtY CUISMdIIE. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 385 1839, in Wayne township, Butler county, Ohio. He is the son of John and Catherine (Weaver) Grismore. John Grismore was born in Burkes county, Pennsylvania, in August, 1812, and was the son of Abraham Grismore and Avife. From all accounts, Abraham Grismore and wife were natives of Penn- sylvania. At one time, Abraham was considered a well-to-do man, and was the owner of a linseed oil mill. Before his death, however, he was greatly reduced, financially, on account of having secured the debts of other men, and their failures to meet their obligations. John Grismore and Abraham Grismore, Jr., were the only sons. There were seven daughters. John was but twelve years, of age when his father died, leaving his mother with nine ■children and thirty acres of stony land, which was their only means of sup- port. When a boy, his mother bound him out to a tailor to learn the trade, and when he was twenty-two years old, he came to Ohio, down the Ohio river, to Cincinnati, by boat, landing there with twenty-five cents in his pocket. Being the master of a good trade he proceeded to Lebanon, Ohio, where he had a friend who was a tailor. From here he located at Jacksonboro, Butler county, where he established a tailor shop. It was here that he first met Catherine Weaver, the daughter of Henry Weaver and wife, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania, and a prosperous farmer of Wayne township, Butler county. A part of the town of Jacksonboro was located on Henry Weaver's land. When John Grismore was twenty-four years old, he was married to Catherine Weaver. In addition to conducting his tailoring business, in the winter and spring, he devoted the summers to his little farm of thirty-seven acres, five miles from Jacksonboro. It was here that three of the children were born. Sarrah died in infancy; Henry is the subject of this sketch, -and Mary Ann was the third child. After a residence in Jacksonboro of about ten or eleven years, two years of which were spent on his little farm, he sold out and moved to Riley township, Putnam county, January 13, 1845. It was during the preceding spring that he and Mr. Weaver made a trip to Putnam county on horseback to purchase a farm. John bought sixty-eight acres, two miles south of Pendleton, now Pandora, and Mr. Weaver, a farm north of and adjoining the town of Pendleton. It was on January 13, 1845, after a trip covering five days over muddy roads, a hundred and twenty miles in all, that they arrived at the scene of their new home in three wagons. The last day of the trip they were only able to cover seven miles. There was a hewed log house and round log barn on the place, and probably about five -acres of the land cleared. John Grismore worked, clearing his place, during 25 3o6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. the summer months, while he followed his trade as a tailor during the winter. After several years, he managed to get his first farm, practically all cleared,, and then purchased' eighty acres next to his first farm. From time to time he added to his holdings until he had accumulated five hundred and forty- eight acres. After moving to Riley township, there were five children born,, making eight in all, six of whom lived to maturity. The last five were,. George, Elizabeth, who died at twelve years of age; Harriet, Phoebe and Martin. The last named was killed by a falling tree in the woods when he was thirty-five years old. John Grismore died on December 29, 1899, at the ripe old age of eighty-seven years. His wife, who was born in Butler county,. in 1816, died in Richland township, Allen county, in 1880, at the age of sixty-four. Henry Grismore came with his parents to Putnam county when he was- six years old. It was here that he spent his boyhood. His was the life that generally fell to the lot of a pioneer's son. He was thirteen years old before there were any schools in his neighborhood. However, he had learned ta read and spell from his mother. The balance of his education consisted of an average of twenty-two days a year, for eight years, in school. He re- mained at home until he was twenty-two years old. During the spring, fol- lowing his twenty-second birthday, he went to Ontario and there remained for nearly three years. It was near Hamburg, Ontario, that Mr. Grismore met and married on January 9, 1866, Francisca Ginther, who had been born in Wurtemberg, Ger- many. Immediately afterwards he returned to Ohio and settled on a part of his father's place, a farm of one hundred and twenty acres, which farm he later bought from his father. Seven years later, in the fall of 1873, he moved to a place of eighty acres, one mile south of Pandora, which he had bought the previous June. He has lived on this place ever since. The place had a substantial frame house for those days, in which he lived for twelve years, or until 1885, when he built a large, handsome, brick residence, of twelve rooms.. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Grismore have had eleven children, seven of whom have lived to maturity. John W. married Magdalene Lehman and lives two. miles north of Pandora. They have seven children. Cora is the wife of E. J. Miller, who lives one mile north of Pandora. They have two children Oscar married Fiona Day. They live in Los Angeles, California, and have four children. Emma is the wife of Edward Morelock, of Creditorn, On- tario. They have three children. Levi married Levina Towsley, and' lives- one mile southwest of Pandora. They have three children. Otto married Martha Wittich, Brilliant, Ohio. They have two daughters. Carl A. mar- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ogv ried Leah Tripplehorn, and lives on the home place. They have one child, Donald. Mary Ann is the wife of Guy R. Fromm, of Cincinnati. They have one child. Jessie Pearl died at the age of two years. Grover C. is unmar- ried. He is an instructor in the law school at Ann Arbor, Michigan. Fred married Jennie Kisabeth. They live in Memphis, Tennessee, and have no children. In addition to his farming, Mr. Grismore owned a mill and elevator, from 1892 to 1900. This mill was located at Pandora. He operated it dur- mg the period of his ownership. Henry Grismore has been a most successful farmer and, altogether, owned five hundred and fifty-six acres. At one time he was the largest single taxpayer in Putnam county, having been very suc- cessful with hogs and cattle. Lately, Mr. Grismore has disposed of a part of his holdings, but still retains three hundred and thirty-six acres of the finest land in Putnam county. He is a director and treasurer in the Farmers Bankmg Company, at Pandora, and is known as a successful banker. Mr. Grismore is a Democrat. He served as township trustee for six years, as a supervisor, and was member of the school board for eighteen years.' Re- ligiously, he and his wife and family are members of the Methodist Episco- pal church, and in this church Mr. Grismore has held various offices. Henry Grismore is a man of broad experiences and is counted as one of the best farmers in the county, a good citizen and a true friend. He is a fine type of Christian gentleman, and eminently deserves the esteem and confidence placed m him by his neighbors and fellow citizens. JOHN J. RAMPE. The Rampe family came to Putnam county, Ohio, in 1872, and for the past forty years have been connected with the advancement of this county along agricultural, commercial and educational lines. John J. Rampe was fourteen years of age when his parents moved to this county, and for the past thirty-five years he has been engaged in business for himself at Ottawa. Starting to learn the shoe trade, as a shoemaker, when he was twelve years of age, he opened a shoe shop of his own, at the age of twenty- one, and sold shoes, which he himself made for a few years. He then put in stock of factory-made shoes, and gradually added other furnishing goods, until he now has the largest store in Ottawa. John J. Rampe, the son of Barney and Mary (Miller) Rampe, was 3^8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. born in Covington, Kentucky, September 12, 1859. His father was born in Glandorf, Germany, and his mother, in Haagen, Germany. His parents were married in Covington, Kentucky, and to them were born eight children, seven sons and one daughter, of whom four died in infancy. The other four, are as follows : Louis, who died at Edaville, Iowa, about ten years ago; Fred, who learned the shoemaking trade with his brother, John J., and followed it until his death, on March 9, 1896, at the age of thirty-three; Lizzie, the wife of Joseph Roof, living at Glandorf, and John J., of Ottawa. Fred, the brother of John J., married Mary Smith, of Glandorf, and was the father of five daughters and one son, who, with his widow, are still living. Barney Rampe was a contractor and lived in Covington, Kentucky, until about 1875, and laid many of the sidewalks in that city. In that year he moved to Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, his son, John J., having pre- ceded the family, coming to this county, when he was twelve years of age, to learn the shoemaker's trade with his uncle, William Rampe, Sr. William Rampe, Sr., had come here in the early history of the county, and was in the shoe business at Glandorf for about fifty years, or until his death, on November 28, 1893. Barney Rampe died in Putnam county, December 6, 1893, and his widow died on October 31, 1899. Barney Rampe and his wife lived in Glandorf, Putnam county, after moving here, and he contin- ued making sidewalks. John J. Rampe lived in Covington, Kentucky, until he was twelve years of age and obtained all of his schooling in that city. He then came to Put- nam county, Ohio, and worked with his uncle, William Rampe, learning the shoemaker's trade. He remained with his uncle until September 17, 1880, when he started in business in Ottawa for himself. On that day his son, the first child, was born. He started a shoe shop at Ottawa and sold only shoes at first, which he made in his own shop. As his trade increased, he added a line of factory-made shoes and gradually increased his business. A few years later he added a stock of clothing, hats and men's furnishing goods of all kinds, and still later put in a line of ladies' clothing, millinery and dry goods. He now has a jewelry department, as well as a full line of groceries. In fact, he now sells everything to wear, from head to foot, for men, women and children. He has the two main floors and part of the upstairs in the McCracken block, to which he moved about ten years ago. He bought back the small building in which he first started on the south side of Main street on June 25, 1912, and in this building he has placed a large stock of carpets, rugs, and linoleums: In the main store he has a large number of departments, and among the conveniences for customers he has PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 389 a rest room with a sign above the door saying, "Welcome to our rest room. A cup of cofiEee free." The Rampe stores are easily the largest in Ottawa and it is safe to say that he does the largest retail business of any man in the village. He is the only practical shoe man in the business in Ottawa, his training at the trade making him an expert in judging stock. He has killed and skinned the steer, tanned the hide and made the shoes from the leather. Accord- ingly, he knows the business of shoemaking thoroughly, and this fact has undoubtedly had much to do with his success as a dealer in shoes. Mr. Rampe was married at the age of twenty to Anna Leopold, the daughter of Barney and Elizabeth Leopold, pioneer settlers of Glandorf, in this county. Mr. Leopold came from Glandorf, Germany, in the early history of the county, and was a storekeeper and stockbuyer at Glandorf. Two= children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rampe, Harry B. and Emma L. Harry B. has charge of the men's department of his father's store, and Emma has charge of the ladies' department. Harry married Lucile Jennings, of Carrs, Kentucky. The first wife of Mr. Rampe died, February i6, 1910, and on January 17, 1914, he married Martha Kerner, who was born in Ottawa, and is the, daughter of Philip and Agnes (Maag) Kerner. Mr. Rampe, with his wife and children, are loyal and devout members of the Catholic church, and are generous contributors to its support. He is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks at Lima, Ohio. Mr. Rampe is a thorough business man, and by industry and unexcelled business judgment has become one of the most substantial men of the county. CHARLES A. FERRALL. It is a well-authenticated fact that success comes as the result of legiti- mate and well-applied energy, unflagging determination and perseverance in a course of action which one has decided upon. Success was never known to smile upon the idler or dreamer. She nfcver courts the loafer and only those men, who have diligently sought her favor, are crowned with her bless- ing. It is apparent that the success of Charles A. Ferrall, leading restau- rant man of Putnam county, located at Ottawa, has been won by unfailing industry, determination and a fixed will. These qualities have also gained for him the high esteem of the people of Ottawa. Charles A. Ferrall was born in Gilboa, Putnam county, Ohio, September 390 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 20, 1873, the son of John and Louise (Devinney) Ferrall. John Ferrall was born in 1838, and was reared in Blanchard township, Putnam county. He was the eldest son of James and Parthena (Hickerson) Ferrall, who came to this county soon after their marriage and located in Blanchard township. They came from Licking county, Ohio. James Ferrall was the son of John Ferrall, a soldier in the American Revolution. John Ferrall grew up in Blanchard township. His father was a shoe- maker at Gilboa and was an expert at this trade. John Ferrall married Louise Devinney in 1862, who was born in Lancaster, Fairfield county, Ohio, the daughter of John and Anna (Umwake) Devinney. John Devinney was the son of James Devinney, who was a native of France and a soldier in Lafayette's army in the American Revolution. Anna Umwake was one of four children, brought by their parents from Pennsylvania to Fairfield county, Ohio. Louise Devinney lived at Lancaster until ten years of age and then came to Ottawa with her sister, Mrs. Redd and her husband, who moved here in wagons, in 1848. They located about two miles east of Ottawa, south of the Blanchard river, where the old Pierman home is now located. Four years later, Louise Devinney went to live with her half-brother, Jacob Green, who conducted the Defiance Democrat, and was probate judge for many years and a man well known in the county. Louise Devinney went to De- fiance in order to take advantage of the better schools at that place and. after three years, began teaching. She taught about five years south and southeast of Ottawa until her marriage. John Ferrall was a soldier in the Nmth Ohio Cavalry. He enlisted a short time before his marriage and later re-enlisted. Three of his brothers also served in the Union army. John Ferrall was in the service until the close of the war, Mrs. Ferrall mean- while staying with her mother who then lived near Columbus Grove. After the war, John Ferrall spent the rest of his life at Gilboa, where he engaged m various lines of business. He died in October, 1885. He was widely known as a genial-tempered man and was marshal of Gilboa for many years He was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. and Mrs Fer- rall were the parents of five children, Mary, the wife of George Rennells of Toledo; Anna, the widow of David Long, who was a lawyer of Ottawa- Charles A., the subject of this sketch; Eliza, the wife of Bert Shondell a railroader, of Fort Wayne; William, a conductor on the Cincinnati Hamil- ton & Dayton railroad, of Lima, Ohio. About two years after Mr Ferrall" died, Mrs. Ferrall moved to Ottawa, where she built a home and where she has resided since that time. Charles A. Ferrall started a restaurant at his present location just east PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 391 of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton tracks on the south side of Main street, about 1903. At that time it was an old frame building. He started in a small way and continued in business with increasing success. Mr. Ferrall traveled to the Pacific coast to marry in the spring of 19 10. He was married at Los Angeles, Califorriia, May 5, 1910, to Laura Kraft, who was born on May 5, 1882, at Ottawa, Ohio. She is the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Trame) Kraft. John Kraft was born on March 25, 1855, a short distance north of Ottawa. He is the son of Joseph and Catherine (Gross) Kraft. Joseph Kraft and wife were natives of Alsace and married there. They came to this country nearly seventy years ago. Joseph Kraft was a farmer and the son of An- drew and Walbruck (Brockmeyer) Kraft, and was born June 3, 1812, settling in this country in 185 1. His wife, whom he married in Haucknew, France, April 17, 1842, was also born in Alsace, July 16, 1822. She was the daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Burger) Gross, who came to this country in 185 i. Joseph Kraft and wife settled north of Ottawa and spent the rest of their lives on the farm. John Kraft, their son, married Elizabeth Trame in 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Kraft are the parents of three children living and one dead, Laura Elizabeth, the wife of Mr. Ferrall; Catherine Johanna, the wife of Nicholas Miller, ex-sheriff of Putnam county; Mary Dorothy, who •died at the age of four years and three months; and Clarence Edwin, who is at home. Elizabeth Trame was born at Toledo, Ohio, February 25, 1853, the daughter of Christopher and Mary (Brinkman) Trame, both of whom were born and reared in Hanover, Germany, the former on October 30, 1819. Mrs. Ferrall spent most of her younger life in Ottawa, where she at- tended the parochial schools and also the Ottawa high school, from which latter school she was graduated at the age of seventeen. She then spent several years in the Meffley dry goods store and two years in Toledo in mer- cantile business. She then went to Los Angeles to live with her married sister and it was not long after she went to live in Los Angeles that Mr. Ferrall joined her. After their marriage, Mr. Ferrall came back to Ottawa and, the fol- lowing October, sold out, expecting to locate in Los Angeles. In February he returned to Ottawa and opened a restaurant in the second room east of where the Ottawa Banking Company is located. In the December following he moved into his present location where a new building had been erected, 392 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. and has been in business hefe ever since. In March, after opening in his new- location, he purchased his present home. Mr. Ferrall is a member' of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. For twenty-three years he has been a member of the Ottawa fire department. Mr. and Mrs. Ferrall have two children, Paul Aubrey and Catherine Louise. Mr. Ferrall is a big whole-souled man, fond of hunting, fishing and other clean sports. He is a shrewd and careful buyer and knows how to conduct a good restau- rant. Mrs. Ferrall is a woman of charming appearance and socially is popular in Ottawa. Their children are bright, healthy youngsters, of whom their parents are very proud. ANDERSON JAMES YOUNG. Ohio was not lacking in loyalty during the dark days of the Civil War when the Ship of State was almost stranded on the rocks of Disunion, but contributed her full quota of brave men to assist in preserving the integrity of the government, prominent among whom was Anderson James Young, now a well-known druggist of Leipsic, Ohio. Loyal to his country in its hour of peril and extremity, as was demonstrated on many bloody battle- fields, he has ever been its stanch supporter in times of peace, and today there are few veterans in Putnam county who are more widely and favor- ably known, and none that can boast of a more honorable record. The ranks of the noble organization to which he belonged in the days of his youth are fast being diminished by the one invincible foe and it is fitting in every pub- lication of this nature that special tribute be paid to those who served through the greatest civil war known to history. Anderson James Young was born on December i, 1841, near Tiffin, Ohio. He is the son of Samuel and Isabella (Sutton) Young. Samuel Young was born in Pennsylvania, and came to Seneca county, Ohio, when a young man, settling on a farm. He was a life-long farmer, near Seneca and was married there to Isabella Sutton, who emigrated with her parents to Seneca county in pioneer days, who were farmers and natives of Pennsyl- vania. Samuel died on the farm of one hundred and sixty acres where he spent almost his entire life. When he first acquired possession of the farm It was a wilderness. Under his directing care and by the consequence of hii labors, he saw this farm transformed, by the spade and the plow, into a vast PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 393. garden. He amassed quite a fortune and, throughout his Hfe, was' a careful, frugal farmer. Anderson James Young left Seneca county, Ohio, for Putnam county, in 1862, and settled in Van Buren township. He lived in that township for a time, when he left for Hancock county. His education was obtained mostly in the common schools of Seneca county and in the high school at Tifiin.- After leaving the high school, he entered the Cincinnati School of Pharmacy, from which institution he was graduated. He also attended the Springfield (Ohio) School of Pharmacy, for some time. Mr. Young enlisted in Company E, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infan- try, as a private, for three years and three months, February 26, 1862, at the age of twenty-three. He was transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, April 10, 1864, by order of the war department, and went to Washington, D. C. He was discharged, after serving three years and three months. He enlisted at Tiffin, Ohio, under Col. William H. Gibson and fought in the bat- tles of the western campaign. He was wounded in the hand at Corinth, Mississippi, and again in the knee at Stone's River. He also fought in the battle of Shiloh. Mr. Young was married on February 10, 1866, to Mary Foulk, a native of Putnam county, born on May 18, 1842, and the daughter of Peter and Sarah (Heck) Foulk. Peter Foulk was a native of Pennsylvania, born irt Starke county and after his marriage to Sarah Heck, came to Hancock county, Ohio, when this county was a vast wilderness. He farmed a short time in. Hancock county when he removed to Van Buren township, Putnam county, near Leipsic, where he died on November 21, 1878. He was born on Febru- ary 27, 181 1, and was sixty-seven years old at the time of his death. He was- married, in 1834. Sarah Heck was a native of Tuscarawas county, Ohio,, and, shortly after her birth, was taken by her parents to Hancock county. Peter Foulk was a man of stalwart frame, of powerful muscular develop- ment. He was a man of indomitable courage, which qualities enabled him- to brave the perils of pioneer life. Peter Foulk's wife died, about 1871. They had ten children, five of whom are now living, Mrs. Julia Young, of Leipsic; Mary, the wife of Mr. Young; Mrs. Lucinda Fike and Mrs. Emma Baughman, both of Leipsic; and Peter, of Chicago, Illinois. To Mr. and Mrs. Anderson J. Young, three children ' have been born, Emma B., born on January 5, 1867, now deceased; Everett J., born on April 20, 1869, and Orville E., born on September 7, 1875, who married Delia Scott, and has three children, Harry E., who attends the Ohio State Univer- 394 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. sity, Katherine and Helen. He is a rural mail carrier and lives in Leipsic, Ohio. Mr. Young has two sisters and one brother living, Mrs. Rachel Haynes, of Carey, Ohio; Mrs. Mary Jane Noel, of Terre Haute, Indiana, and Wash- ington, of North Baltimore, Ohio. After his marriage, Mr. Young returned to Leipsic, Ohio, and entered the drug business. He has continued in this business practically all the time, and is still more or less active. He is a skilled pharmacist, and is widely known. Mr. Young holds the only diploma in the city of Leipsic. He is also a jeweler and learned this trade when a young man. At the present time, Mr. Young holds county and state certificates as a druggist. Mr. Young is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias, but is not active now. He is a member of Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, at Leipsic, Ohio, and belongs to the State Jewelers' Association. He has always been a stanch Republican. Mrs. Young is a member of the Presbyterian church, at Leipsic. Anderson J. Young is a man who is libera! in his views and who believes in free speech. He is a loyal neighbor, has been an excellent business man, and is honored by the people of his community in which he has so long been a factor for gen- -eral advancement and improvement. WILLIAM H. BEGG, M. D. The parents of William H. Begg, M. D., located in Putnam county, Ohio, in 1857 and lived there the remainder of their days. Doctor Begg was about four years old when his parents came to this county, and has since spent all of his career here with the exception of the time he spent in college. In his younger manhood he taught school for a time, but since graduating from the medical college in 1881, he has been engaged in the active practice of his profession in Columbus Grove. He has always taken a very prominent part in the life of his community and has served many years on the school board of Columbus Grove, and on the state board for the Toledo hospital for the insane. He and his wife have reared an in- teresting family of three children. William H. Begg, M. D., the son of William and Jean (Dobbie) Begg, was born in 1853, in Franklin county, Ohio. His parents were both born and reared in Cumberlandshire, Scotland," and were married at Stirling in PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 395 their native country. They came to America in 1834, and located at Canal Winchester, Ohio. They had started across the state to reach Cincinnati, but when they reached Canal Winchester, Mrs. Begg took sick with the malarial fever, and they had to stop on that account. They continued to reside in Canal Winchester until 1857, and then moved to Putnam county, where they lived the remainder of their days. Doctor Begg was four years old on the day his parents finally settled in Putnam county. His father bought property in Columbus Grove and also a farm on the edge of Allen county adjoining Putnam. The family lived about three years in Columbus Grove and then moved to the farm, where Doctor Begg grew to manhood. Early in life he began to teach school and before reaching manhood became a student in the National Nor- mal University at Lebanon, Ohio, where he had for classmates several men who later achieved national fame. He taught school in the country, both before and after attending the university at Lebanon, and was teaching in the high school at Columbus Grove when he decided to pursue a medical course. He resigned his position as high school teacher and entered the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where he began his medical studies. Later he became a student in the Medical College of Ohio at Cincinnati and graduated there in the class of 1881. Immediately after graduating from college, Doctor Begg located in- Columbus Grove for the practice of his profession, and here he has been hving since that time. He has built up a very large practice and is not only one of the leading practitioners of his county, but also one of the leaders in his profession in the state. He was a member of the school board for eighteen years and refused to serve longer because of his wide range of medical practice. He served for twelve years as a member of the state board- which has charge of the hospital for the insane at Toledo, Ohio. He has' always taken an active interest in the life of his community and his Support' could always be relied upon for all public-spirited enterprises. Doctor Begg was married on September 8, 1881, to Martha M. Kohli, a daughter of Peter and Louisa (Featheringill) KohH. Her parents were both born in this county where they have lived all of their lives. Mr. Kohli lived in Pandora, where his father kept a hotel. Doctor Begg and his wife have three children living,' Ethel Jean, Rus- sell Stuart and Harold Kohli. Ethel is a graduate of the Western College at Oxford, Ohio, and is now the wife of W. M. Crawford, of Columbus Grove, whose history kppears elsewhere in this volume. Russell graduated ' in 1908 from the engineering department of the University of Michigan, is a 396 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. member of the Phi Deha Theta fraternity, and is now experimental engineer for the Jeffries Automobile Company, at Kenosha, Wisconsin. He married Lenora Sterling, of Columbus Grove, and has one daughter, Edith Martha. Harold, the youngest child of Doctor and Mrs. Begg, is now in the medical department of Northwestern University at Chicago, and is in his third year. He is taking the course leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine, and intends to make the practice of medicine his life work. He belongs to Phi Delta Theta and the Phi Rho Sigma fraternities. Doctor Begg is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and has at- tained to the chapter degree. He is a man of genial personality and has those charming characteristics which always mark the genuine Scotchman. Personally, he is tall and commanding in appearance and it is safe to say that no man in his community is held in higher esteem. MATHIAS J. FUERST. The Fuerst family was one of the first to locate in Putnam county, Ohio, the father of Mathias Joseph Fuerst locating in this county several years before the Civil War. Mathias J. Fuerst started out to make his own way in the world when he was fifteen years of age, working for a time for fifty cents a day and paying three dollars and a half for board. He worked at the carriagemaker's trade, and for three years worked in the Brown dry goods store in Ottawa. For the past four years he has been engaged in the agricultural implement business, in partnership with Charles J. Kerner. The firm sells all kinds of agricultural implements, cream sepa- rators, gas engines, harness, buggies and various implements and tools used on the farm. Mathias Joseph Fuerst, the son of Anthony and Otilia (Yerger) Fuerst, was born in Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, January 23, 1864. Anthony Fuerst was born in Monheim, Germany, February 4, 1829, coming to Amer- ica when a young man, about 1854. He lived for a short time in Potts- ville, Pennsylvania, and, after marrying in that state, moved to Columbus, Ohio, where, a few years later he located in Putnam county, on a farm, between Ottawa and Glandorf. Anthony Fuerst, who is still living in this county, in his eighty-seventh year, has had a very interesting history. In Germany, he learned the mason's trade, and, after coming to America, he continued to follow it. He started PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 397 in a very humble way, after coming to America, and for a time worked for fifty cents a day, and actually saved money. When he came to Putnam county, Ohio, with his wife, he bought a small farm, between Ottawa and Glandorf, where he erected a brick house, which is still standing in a good state of preservation. Afterward, he bought another farm, about three miles north of Ottawa, as well as a small tract, just west of the county seat. All of these farms were covered with timber, when he bought them. He continued to follow the trade of a mason, in connection with h(is farming and other work, and has built most of the large brick buildings in Ottawa, as well as in other towns throughout the county. He built the Catholic church, the old jail, and a large number of the buildings, in the business part of Ottawa. Anthony Fuerst married in Pennsylvania, shortly after coming to this county, Otilia Yerger, who died in 1876, at the age of forty-four, leaving nine children, all of whom are still living, John, born on April 20, 1856; Mary, born on December 28, 1858: Lizzie, born on January 9, i860; Louise, born on April 4, 1862; Matthew J., born on Janu- ary 23, 1864; Henry, born on March 13, 1866; Anna, born on January 25, 1868; Regina, born on February 17, 1870, and Frank, born on March 8, 1872. After the death, of his first wife, in 1876, Anthony Fuerst married Mrs. Mary Kapel, the widow of Joseph Kapel, and to this second union three children were born, Toney, Theodore and Emma. Toney was killed by a bursting emery wheel; at Lima, Ohio, in 191 1. The mother of these three children died about 1909, and after the death of his second wife, Mr. Fuerst lived with his daughter, Elizabeth, until 19 13. He is now making his home at Lima, Ohio, with another daughter Mrs. Louise Day. Mathias J. Fuerst has spent his whole life in Putnam county. He lived at home until he was fifteen years of age, and then started out to work for himself. With four dollars and a half in his pocket, he went to Van Wert, Ohio, to secure work. He did not know a single person in the town of Van Wert, and, after much trouble, finally secured a job in a spoke factory, at fifty cents a day. In view of the fact that his board cost him three dol- lars and a half a week, he did not hold this position long, and found em- ployment in a hotel, where he worked as a porter for a short time. He was not satisfied with this, and one day started out to walk through the country in order to look for work on a farm. He finally secured a job as a helper to a brick mason, and shortly afterward found a job in the country on a farm, where he worked for two months. He then came to •Ottawa, learned the carriagemaker's trade and followed this for eight and a half years.- He entered the dry goods store of the Brown Dry Goods Com- •398 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. paiiy in Ottawa, as a clerk, in 1891, and for twenty consecutive years was an efficient salesman in this store. He started in at one dollar a day and saved his money. After becoming an employee of the store, he resigned his position and spent one year in college. Mr. Fuerst and H. C. Humming opened an implement store in Ottawa in 191 1. A year later, Mr. Hummins disposed of his interests in the firm to Charles J. Kerner, and the firm is now known as Fuerst & Kerner. Although they have been in business but a comparati\'ely short time, they are already building up a large trade through- out the county and bid fair to become well established. Mr. Fuerst was married in 1896 to Ella McGrevy, the daughter of John and Lizzie McGrevy. Mrs. Fuerst was an employe at Brown's dry goods store until her marriage. Two years after their marriage and five days after the birth of a son, Charles Joseph, Mrs. Fuerst died. This son is now at- tending school in Ottawa. Fifteen years after the death of his first wife, Mr. Fuerst married Cora Ringenbach, a native of Starke county, Ohio, and a resident of Canton, at the time of her marriage. Mr. Fuerst and his wife and son are members of the Catholic church. Mr. Fuerst has always been identified with the Democratic party, and has served as clerk of Ottawa for four years. Mr. Fuerst is essentially a self- made man and is well deserving of the success which has come to him. He is a quiet and unassuming man and has a host of friends and acquaintances in Ottawa and throughout the county. LEVI BASINGER. Within the past twenty years, Levi Basinger, the subject of this sketch, who during all of this time has been assistant cashier of the People's Bank at Columbus Grove, Putnam county, Ohio, has arisen to a position of great prominence and power in this section of Putnam county. During this period, Mr. Basinger has not only become well known as one of the im- portant figures in the Peoples Bank, but he has also achieved a remarkable success as a merchant. Likewise, Mr. Basinger, during this period, has acquired a splendid farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres east of Columbus Grove. In all of this time, however, he has never lost sight of his large duties because of the added power which his wealth and property have given to him.. He has performed every civic and social duty and in PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. oqq, the spirit of one who has had the experience, knows that the possession of great wealth is useless unless it is used to good purpose. Levi Basinger was born on March 29, 1870, near Columbus Grove,, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Chtistian and Regina (Lugilbihll) Basinger, whose family history is to be found, in the sketch of William Basinger, also a son of Christian and Regina Basinger, and contained elsewhere in this volume. Levi Basinger worked hard on the home farm of his father and mother until twenty-one years old, when he took a business course at the Ohio- Northern University at Ada. He has been connected with the Peoples Bank, of Columbus Grove, continuously since that time, a period of nearly twenty- five years. Mr. Basinger is a stockholder in the bank and has been assistant cashier from the time the bank was organized in 1891. The Peoples Bank is a flourishing institution and certainly not the least of the credit is due to- the sagacity and good business judgment and management of Levi Basinger. Mr. Basinger also owns a farm east of Columbus Grove, consisting of one hundred and twenty-five acres. It is a splendid farm and Mr. Basin- ger devotes considerable attention to the details of its operations. Since 1913, he has owned the controlling interest in the Home Industries store, at Columbus Grove. This store does a good business and Mr. Basinger ac^ tively controls its management. He purchased the five and ten-cent store at Columbus Grove in August, 1914. This store carries a complete stock of goods usually found in such stores, and also carries other things at a slightly higher cost than five or ten cents. Mr. Basinger built his present residence in 1904, which is a large modern home erected on Main street, about one block from the business part of town. It is generally considered as one of the very finest residences in Columbus Grove. Here Mr. Basinger and his wife and family live. Levi Basinger was married shortly after the beginning of his business career, February 22, 1892, to Elizabeth Amstutz, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christian Amstutz. Mrs. Basinger comes from an old and highly re- spected family of Putnam county and her marriage to Mr. Basinger has been a most happy one. They have had two children, Catherine and Roswell. Mr. and Mrs. Levi Basinger are active meiTiIiers of the Methodist Episco- pal church, of Columbus Grove. Levi Basinger is considered a li\-e wire among the younger business men of Columbus Grove. Notwithstanding his busy career, he is extremely courteous in his business and social relations and is popular throughout this section of Putnam county. 400 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. WILLIAM E. DIBBLE. The venerable gentleman, whose career is here briefly given, is one of the older residents of Leipsic, Van Buren township, Putnam county, Ohio. His life has been such as to win the confidence and good will of the people of his community and to make him well and favorably known throughout Put- nam county, of which he has been an honored citizen, for many years. In the highest sense of the term, he is a self-made man and, as such, has met with success. William E. Dibble has a record in life which may be studied with profit by the young men of the rising generation. William E. Dibble was born twenty-six miles from Rochester, New York, March 5, 1836, and is the son of Orville and Mary Ann (DuBois) Dibble. Orville Dibble was a native of the same county, born on December 17, 1810, the son of Horace Milton Dibble, who, it is said, came from France, and served in the War of 1812. William E. Dibble was two years old when his father moved to Huron county, Ohio. The family drove through in a wagon and settled in Green- field township. The family consisted of the father and mother and two chil- dren, William E. and a sister, Susan Sayre, who was two years his senior. The family lived on this farm until William E. was thirteen years old and then moved to Norwalk, the county seat, where Mr. Dibble farmed, a mile east of Norwalk. When he first moved to Huron county, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of wild land, one and one-fourth miles, east of where Chicago Junction is now located. After three years, at Norwalk, the family moved between Milan and Monroeville, on the Huron river. Later, Mr. Dib- ble went to Weston, in Wood county. He farmed, about four years, in Wood county and then crossed into Lucas county,' opposite Otsego, on the Indian reserve, where he farmed on the old Tobo farm, which was owned by old Chief Tobo, for about four years. At the end of this period, he moved to Michigan, where he lived about five miles from Adrian. He later moved to Lenawee county, where he and his wife died. William E. Dibble was married, while the family lived in Lucas county, Ohio, in i860. He married Martha Jane Taylor, who was born in Lucas county. To this union four children were born, Sidney C, of Leipsic, Ohio; William Wesley, of Leipsic; Grant, who died at the age of six weeks, and Cora, who died at the age of seventeen months. William E. Dibble remained with his father until past the age of twenty- five years and worked out six months before his marriage. After he had PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 4OI been married two years, President Lincoln called for three hundred thou- sand volunteer soldiers and Mr. Dibble enlisted in Company F, One Hun- dredth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving under Burnside, Sher- man and Schofield. He was with Sherman in the memorable Georgia cam- paign and was engaged in the siege of Atlanta. After the siege at Knoxville and Atlanta, the army marched to Franklin and Nashville, Tennessee, and later to Louisville, Cincinnati, Washington and Alexandria, Virginia ; thence, by ship to the North Carolina coast, up the Cape Fear river t^ the capture •of Wilmington, thence to Greensboro, where Mr. Dibble saw the last fighting of the war. He was mustered out at the close of the war. He was never away from his regiment during the entire war, was never captured, and was not wounded, although he had many narrow escapes. After the war, Mr. Dibble worked for three years in the grist-mill, in Lucas county, where he began farming in the Maumee river, district above Waterville. He farmed about eight years and then removed to Ottawa county where he worked in a stave factory for about four years. He re- moved to the south edge of Henry county, one-half mile north of the Put- nam county line, in Marion township, at the end of this period, and purchased a tract of timber land of sixty acres. Mr. Dibble cleared this land and made out of it a good farm. He remained there until August, 1912, when he moved to Leipsic, where he still resides. Here Mr. Dibble owns his own home. Mr. Dibble's first wife died on February 6, 1897; he was married again on March 17, 1904, to Mrs. Martha Jane (Dunlap) Dove, who was born, near Warsaw, in Coshocton county, Ohio, and who is the daughter of David and Sovena (Meredith) Dunlap. Her parents were both natives of Coshoc- ton county, Ohio, and when she was nine years old, they moved to Utica, Licking county, and lived there the remainder of their lives. Mrs. Dibble married Sylvester Milton Dove, in 1868, and lived at Utica. He died on February 20, 1899. He was a stone mason all his life. Mr. Dove was a soldier in the Sixteenth Indiana Cavalry and was Grant's orderly for some time, carrying dispatches for him. He was born near Frederick, Maryland, and was the son of William and Annie (Baker) Dove. Mr. Dove was a member of the Christian church. At his death, he left three children living, Levi Elmer, George Alva and Edward Guy. One child, born to this union, died in infancy. Levi Elmer, who is a blacksmith, married Medda Shoefeldt, and lives at Argyle, Michigan. They have had seven children, Nellie, Harry, Martha, Frank, Leone, Melville and Lyle, who was a twin brother of Leone, and is now deceased. George Alva, who is a 26 402 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. I mason, married Nora Davis and lives at Auburn, Indiana. They have eight children, Bernice, Eunice, Mabel, Paul, Rolland, Morton, George and Arthur, Edward G., vi^ho is a painter and decorator, married Ada Davis, and lives at Utica, Ohio. They have three children, Blanche, Earle and Stanley. Ed- ward G. is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Maccabees. William E. Dibble is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, the American Flag House and the Betsy Ross Memorial Association. He has- always taken an active interest in public affairs and has held several minor offices. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical church. Not only is Mr. Dibble a highly-respected citizen, but he is a man who truly deserves the esteem bestowed upon him by his neighbors and fellow citizens. WILLIAM P. S. YOUNG. Specific mention is made of many of the worthy citizens of Putnam county within the pages of this book, citizens who have figured in the growth and development of this favored locality, and whose interests are identified with its every phase of progress, each contributing in his sphere of action to the well-being of the community in which he resides, and to the advancement of its moral and legitimate growth. Among this number is William P. S. Young, the well-known auto liveryman of Leipsic, Ohio. William P. S. Young was born on July 7, 1858, at Jerry City, Wood county, Ohio. He is a son of William P. and Mary Josephine (Jackman) Young. Mr. Young left Jerry City at the age of one year with his parents, who came to Leipsic, Ohio, and located. He remained in the latter city with his parents until his marriage, in 1881, working with his father in a grist and stave-mill, as engineer, for about five years after his marriage. He then engaged in the grocery business at Ridgeland, Ohio, remaining here about six years, after which he removed to Lima, Ohio, and worked for his uncle, J. B. Jackman, driving a huckster wagon. He remained in Lima for about six years, after which he removed to Holgate, Ohio, where he became a barber. After one year he removed to Ottawa, Ohio, continuing in the same business in the latter city for a year, when he removed to Leip- sic, Ohio, where he conducted a barber shop in the Hotel Leffler. He operated this shop for several years, then purchased a brick building, and in it con- ducted a barber shop for about twelve years. After the death of his wife. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 4O3 he engaged in the auto Hvery business, but recently sold out on account of failing health. Mr. Young was married on July 21, 1881, to Hattie Snyder, who was born at Carey, Wyandot county, Ohio, the daughter of Milligan and Cathe- rine (Fritter) Snyder, the former a native of this country, and the latter, likewise a native of the United States, but her parents were natives of Germany. Mrs. Young died on May 22, 1914. She was a beloved wife and a charming woman, and a most excellent helpmate to her husband. Her loss has been keenly felt by all with whom she was associated. Mr. Young is a member of the Knights of Columbus No. 1787, at Ottawa, Ohio. He is a Republican, but has never aspired to office and has never been active in the councils of his party. He is a member of the St. Mary's Catholic church at Leipsic, a free and independent thinker, and congenial among his fellows. William P. S. Young is a man widely known throughout Putnam county and bears a splendid reputation. William P. Young, the father of William P. S. Young, was born on March 25, 1825, in Wayne county, Ohio, and died on October 19, 1899, at the age of seventy-four years, six months and twenty-four days. At the age of twenty-two years, William P Young was married to Jose- phine Jackman, in Seneca county, Ohio, on January 31, 1847, to which place he had migrated from Wayne county, his birthplace. Subsequently, he re- moved, to Wood county, Ohio, where he took up his residence, and where he engaged in the milling business. He built a grist-mill in Jerry City, and lived here for a time. He later moved to Leipsic, Ohio, where he erected the first dwelling house and the first grist-mill in that village, in 1859, and here he lived and engaged in this business for five years. He then moved to Ridge- land, Ohio, in Henry county, where he lived for some time. He also built a mill at Ridgeland, and was postmaster and township treasurer, discharging the duties of the former office for twelve years, and of the latter for eleven years. William P Young was married first to Josephine Jackman, who died in 1886, and after her death he married Margaret Vaughn. Subse- quently, he removed to a farm in Pleasant Grove, Putnam county, and here the second Mrs. Young died, in 1894. Mr. Young married Sarah Winters m 1895. He was engaged in the milling business for more than thirty-five years, 'and experienced both success and disappointment. William P. Young was the father of the following children, born to his first marriage: George Washington, living in Henry county, Ohio; Mrs. A^ary Jane Enck, living at Custer, Ohio; John P., a resident of Henry county; \ 404 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mrs. Isabella Goodman, of Henry county; Mrs. Sarah Archer, of Holgate, Ohio; Wilham P. S., the immediate subject of this review; Abraham P., of Huber, Hancock county, Ohio; Dora P., of Holgate; Louis P., also a resi- dent of Holgate, and Simon P., of Leipsic. The late William P. Young abounded in goodness and honesty. He was noted for his charitableness toward the poor, and was very buoyant and kindly disposed toward his fellows. Mr. Young's first wife was a mem- ber of the Roman Catholic church, and he permitted her to have her own way in rearing the children, but he, himself, was brought up in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in his earlier years was a member and maintained his sympathies and personal interest toward that church. He was buried at Ridgeland, Ohio, in Young's cemetery, the ground formerly owned and occupied by his saw and stave-mill. William P. Young was one of a family of eleven children, five of whom are still living, three brothers and two sisters : Mrs. Rachel Haines, of Adrian, OhiO'; Washington, of North Baltimore, Ohio; Solomon, of Leipsic; Anderson, also a resident of Leipsic, and Mrs. Mary Jane Nole, of Terre Haute, Indiana. Thus, for several generations the Young family have been well known in this section, of Ohio. They have been noted always for their honesty, their industry and earnest, sincere Christian lives. Such people are always re- spected in the commtmity where they live and each generation of the Youngs has been highly respected in Putnam county. JUDGE A. M. HEIDLEBAUGH. The two most strongly marked characteristics of both the east and west are combined in the citizens of Ohio. The enthusiastic enterprise which overcomes all obstacles and makes possible any undertaking in the compara- tively new and vigorous western states, is here tempered by the stable and more careful policy that we have borrowed from our eastern neighbors. The combination is one of unusual force and power. It has been the means of placing this section of the state and country on a par with the older east, at the same time producing a reliability and certainty in business affairs which is frequently lacking in the west. This happy combination of characteristics is possessed to a notable degree by Judge A. M. Heidlebaugh, of Columbus PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 405 Grove. He is too well known to the readers of this work to need any formal introduction here. He comes of well-known parentage, and he, himself, has filled and is filling a large place in the affairs of the community. He is a man of strong and alert mentality, deeply interested in everything pertain- ing to the welfare of the community and is regarded as one of the pro- gressive, enterprising citizens of Putnam county. Judge A. M. Heidlebaugh was born on November lo, 1864, in Peoria, Illinois, the son of Noah and Rosanna (Mericle) Heidlebaugh. Noah Heidlebaugh was born in Hocking county, Ohio, and was the son of John Heidlebaugii, whose father came from the old country. Rosanna Mericle was the daughter of Solomon Mericle and she was born in Hocking county, Ohio, living there until her marriage. Her parents were natives of Penn- sylvania. Noah Heidlebaugh was born, reared and married in Hocking county, Ohio. At the beginning of the Civil War, he went to Peoria, Illi- nois, where he enlisted in the Union army. His wife returned to Hocking county in the meantime and while in camp, Noah Heidlebaugh took the measles. After many years, this caused blindness and for the last ten years of his life he was blind. After returning from the army, he came back to Hocking county, Ohio, and in 1872, moved to Putnam county, locating near what is now Rushmore, in Jennings township. He continued farming in that locality and there spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1893. Noah Heidlebaugh was a man of considerable influence in his community. He served as township clerk and was justice of the peace of Hocking county, Ohio. His widow is still living in Rushmore. Judge A. M. Heidlebaugh grew up on the farm near Rushmore. At the age of twenty, he began teaching school and after teaching one year, he attended college at Lebanon. After leaving college, he resumed teaching and taught for twenty years in Putnam county. He taught in Jennings, Sugar Creek and Union townships. While teaching, Judge Heidlebaugh purchased a farm in Sugar Creek township and in 1893 he began farming but continued to teach during the winter. He was elected justice of the peace in 1896 and on September i, 1897, was appointed a member of the county board of school examiners. He had served as justice of the peace six years and was school examiner until February, 1903, when he became pro- bate judge, which compelled his resignation as school examiner. As pro- bate judge, he had the novel experience of appointing his own successor to the board of school examiners. Judge Heidlebaugh served six years as pro- bate judge and retired, in February, 1909. At the close of his services as 406 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. judge, he remained in Ottawa about a year and then came to Columbus Grove and purchased an interest in the Exchange Bank of Columbus Grove. This bank was organized as a private bank in 1873 ^^'^ operated as such until 1 9 14, when it was incorporated as a state bank. The present officers are. Judge A. M. Heidlebaugh, president; W. M. Crawford, cashier, and B. F. Seitz, vice-president. This bank does a large business in the southern part of Putnam county. Since he entered the banking business. Judge Hei- dlebaugh has devoted his entire time to banking though he still holds his farm in Sugar Creek township. Judge Heidlebaugh was married to Lydia Deffenbaugh in 1889, who was born in Sugar Creek township, and who is the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Derbyshire) Deffenbaugh. Jacob Deffenbaugh is of Pennsylvania German ancestry and was a native of that state. About 1832 he came with his parents to Putnam county. John Deffenbaugh was county auditor of Putnam county and a well-known and influential man. Jacob Deffenbaugh was a life-long farmer and during the last six or seven years of his life, lived retired in Columbus Grove. He was a justice of the peace and a member of the school board in Sugar Creek township. He died in 1912. His wife was born in Sugar Creek township and was the daughter of Jesse and Lydia (Pierce) Derbyshire. They were early settlers on the farm adjoining the Deffenbaughs. The Derbyshires were of English ancestry and Mrs. Derby- shire was a distant relative of President Franklin Pierce. Judge and Mrs. Heidlebaugh are the parents of four children, Grace L., who is teaching in the schools of Columbus Grove, and attended college at Defiance, Ohio; Mary M., who attended Oxford and taught two years, now being a student at Oxford; Harold H., who is also at Oxford College; and Nolan Eugene, who is seven years of age and in the second school grade. The three elder children graduated from the high school, Grace at Ottawa, and the other two at Columbus Grove. Judge Heidlebaugh and wife belong to the Christian church of Sugar Creek township, as do also the three elder children. He is a thirty-second degree Mason, a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Knights of Pythias, also other orders. Judge Heidlebaugh took the degree work in the Patrons of Flusbandry. He is a friendly and obliging man, who, despite his personal success, does not forget his larger duty and responsibility to the public. He is naturally a leader in his community and a man whose council is sought in many enterprises, public and private. Judge Heidlebaugh is entitled to rank as one of the best-known and most success- ful citizens of Putnam county, Ohio. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 407 WILSON MARTIN CRAWFORD. The name of Crawford has long been connected with the development and progress of Putnam county, Ohio, and especially the southern half of the county. John M. Crawford, the father of Wilson Martin Crawford, was a man who reflected credit upon the community and county where he lived. The greatness of a community lies not in the machinery of government, nor -even in its institutions, but rather in the sterling qualities of the individual citizen, in his capacity for high and unselfish effort, and his devotion to the public welfare. Wilson Martin Crawford, the scion of this well-known family of the same name, in Putnam county, is a clean-cut young business man who is following in the footsteps of a worthy father. Mr. Crawford is not only a master of his business, but he is a leader among men, distin- guished for their grasp of business details, organization and management. Wilson Martin Crawford grew up in Columbus Grove, and was gradu- ated from the high school there. He was born on September 24, 1879, at Columbus Grove, and is a son of John M. and Sarah A. (Martin) Crawford. After graduating from the Columbus Grove high school, Mr. Craw- ford attended Northwestern University, at Evanston, Illinois, and was gradu- ated from the academic department in 1902 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Mr. Crawford had a splendid record at the university and was popu- lar with the faculty and with the students. He was what might be called at that time a representative college student. After his graduation from Northwestern University, he returned to Columbus Grove, Ohio, and until 1905 was employed in the Exchange Bank, at that city, of which his father, John M. Crawford, was president. Mr. Crawford went to Denver, Colorado, in 1905, with the W. E. Moses Land and Realty Company, and remained in that city until the spring of 1907. At that time he returned to Columbus Grove and became the assistant cashier of the Exchange Bank. His brother, W. L. Crawford, was cashier, whose death occurred in March, 1907, and from 1910, Wilson M. Craw- ford has been cashier of this bank. Mr. Crawford was married on June 22, 1904, to Ethel Jean Begg, the daughter of Dr. William H. and Martha M. (Kohli) Begg. Mrs. Craw- ford was born and reared at Columbus Grove, and attended the Western College for Women, at Oxford, Ohio, from which institution' she was graduated in 1902, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford have one daughter, Jean, who was born on June 21, 1913. Mr. Crawford is identified with the Democratic party, and is now a 408 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. member of the Columbus Grove city council. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and also of the Knights of Pythias. At college he was a member of the National Greek letter fraternity of Phi Delta Theta,. one of the oldest of the Greek letter societies in existence. He was also a member of the Deru fraternity. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford are members of -the Presbyterian church. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford have a comfortable and beautiful home in Columbus Grove and are socially popular throughout the south half of Put- nam county, where they are both well known. Mr. Crawford is regarded in his community as a young man with the inclination, training and equip- ment in every way to take the place which his father occupied for so many years in the life of this community, a position of prominence and wise leadership. PROF. S. F. DeFORD. It is the dictate of our nature, no less than of enlightened social policy ,- to honor those whose lives have contributed, in any way, to the good of their community and their associates. To bedew with affectionate tears the silent urn of departed worth and virtue, and rehearse the noble deeds of the living,, has been the commendable custom of all ages and all nations. Prof. S. F. DeFord, the subject of this sketch, is one of nature's true noblemen. In contemplating his estimable qualities, integrity and industry appear as promi- nent characteristics ; an integrity that no personal consideration could swerve and an industry that has no rest while anything remains undone. When a given task was accomplished, he has been in the habit of throwing ofif all care, retiring to his home and devoting himself to the pursuit of domestic and social enjoyment, for which he has the keenest zest and relish. His. temper is calm and equable and his manners are emphatically those of a gen- tleman, plain and simple, despising sham and pretense of all kinds. His de- votion to every duty is intense while his perception of truth and worth is. almost intuitive. Although his life has been a busy one, and the private af- fairs of his horne make heavy demands upon his time, he has never allowed it to interfere with his Christian obligations or the faithful' performance of his religious duties. Always calm and straightforward, never demonstrative, his life has been a steady effort for the worth of Christian doctrine, the grandeur of Christian principles and the beauty and elevation of Christian character. He has possessed great sympathy for his fellow men and has al- I'ltOF. S. F. DeFOUD. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 409 ways been ready to aid and encourage those who were struggHng to aid them- selves. Yet, in this, as in everything, he has been entirely unassuming. When he believed he was in the right, nothing could swerve him from it. At the advanced age of seventy-nine years. Professor DeFord demands the respect of all classes of people. Prof. Samuel F. DeFord is now the vice-president of the First National Bank, of Ottawa, a position he has held since its organization, in 1903, is still active in business affairs. He was born in Carroll county, Ohio, May 2, 1836. He is the son of John and Matilda (Littell) DeFord. The DeFord family is of French-Huguenot origin. Professor DeFord's great-grandfa- ther was John DeFord, who fled under persecution of his sect and found refuge in the state of Maryland, where he lived, as a farmer. He had a son, John, who was born in Maryland, but who lived the greater part of his life in Pennsylvania. Coming to Ohio, in 1799, he entered one thousand acres of land, in Carroll county. At this time he was about forty years of age, but lived to be one hundred and three years old. His wife was Lydia Hopwood, a native of Pennsylvania. John DeFord, Jr., and his wife were the parents, of seven children, Harriet, the wife of John H. DeFord; Hannah, Elizabeth, the wife of John Stull, of Augusta, Ohio; John, the father of Prof. Samuel DeFord, who died at the age of eighty-seven; William, who was a prominent farmer and politician of Carroll county, Ohio; Daniel and Nathan B., the lat- ter of Kansas. John DeFord, the father of Prof. Samuel DeFord, passed his life as a farmer, in Carroll county, Ohio, and served as a justice of the peace thirty- one years. He married Matilda Littell, a French woman, who died, in 1894,, at the age of eighty-one. They were the parents of eleven children, Alonzo! a farmer, of Charlottesville, A^irginia; William, deceased; Lydia, the wife of William Mosier, of Uniontown, Pennsylvania; Louisa, the wife' of James- Daniel, of Carrollton, Ohio; Samuel F., the subject of this sketch; John W., 'of Celina, Ohio; Matilda C, the wife of a Mr. Sweet, of Baltimore county! Maryland; Harriet M., the wife of Rev. John W. Cummings, Doctor of Di- vinity, of the Presbyterian church at Nankin, Ashland county, Ohio; Mary L., the wife of John Moreland, a farmer of Newark, Indiana; Thomas B., of Carroll county, Ohio; and Hannah, the wife of John Jackman, of Missouri. Prof. Samuel F. DeFord was reared on the farm. He attended the district schools and, at the age of seventeen years, entered Mount Union Col- lege, at Alliance, from which institution he was graduated, in 1858. One year later, he was graduated from the classical course and, two years after that, received the degree of Master of Arts. Professor DeFord taught, dur- 4IO PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ing the summer months, to assist in paying his way through college. He had charge of the Monongahela schools, for seven months, during 1856. While he was erecting the large school building at Lordstown, Trumbull county, Ohio, in 1858, he was superintendent of the public schools of Newton Falls, . that county. Mrs. James A. Garfield, then Lucretia Rudolph, was one of his ^assistant teachers. Professor DeFord conducted an academy at Lordstown, until 1861, when he took charge of the public schools, at St. Mary's, Ohio. He remained at St. Mary's until 1863, when he was made superintendent of the Celina (Ohio) schools, a position which he held until 1869. He then became superintendent of the Maumee (Ohio) Seminary, for one year, and •after that time came to Ottawa, and was superintendent of the public schools, for fifteen consecutive years, or until 1886. On account of failing health. Professor DeFord became associated with Samuel Slawson, in 1886, in establishing the Exchange Bank, of Ottawa. Mr. DeFord withdrew, in the spring of 1888, and devoted his attention to farming, holding at this time over five hundred acres of land in different parts -of Putnam county. He erected a splendid brick building at the corner of Main and Hickory streets, Ottawa, in 1890, and built many dwellings in Ot- tawa and many Putnam county towns for rental purposes. For many years he was engaged in the real estate and loan business, and was very successful. Professor DeFord was married on November 5, 1859, to Mary V. Dun- can, who was born at Lordstown, Ohio, August 28, 1837, the daughter of Thomas and Susan (Leach) Duncan. Mrs. DeFord is a charter member of the second oldest club in Ohio, which was chartered in 1876. She had al- ways been active in the religious and club life of her county. To this union five children have been born, Clara, who died at the age of three years and eight months; Matilda E., born November 17, 1867, mafried W. F. Stevens, who is now librarian of the Carnegie library, at Homestead, Pennsylvania, and who was formerly librarian of the Railroad Young Men's Christian As- sociation Library, sustained by Cornelius Vanderbilt. Mrs. Stevens is an active member of the Daughters of the Revolution, and takes a lively inter- est in civic work, having been instrumental in organizing a number of clubs. The other children are Mary Ann, who married George W. Mefifley, a dry -goods merchant, of Ottawa, and who is interested in social and civic work, particularly in public libraries; John T., born June 30, 1874, who is a promi- nent attorney of Minerva, Ohio, and who graduated from Mount Union Col- lege and the Cleveland Law School; and Susie F., born in 1881, who married John A. Hunter, now resides in Denver, Colorado. Mrs. Hunter is active PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 4II in church work in her home city. She is the mother of one son, John DeFord, who is a student in the Denver public schools. Samuel F. DeFord is a Democrat. He served three years as county (examiner of Mercer county and seventeen years as examiner for Putnam county. He also served as coroner of Putnam county, for two terms, and was president of the school board of Ottawa for many years. He was also a justice of the peace and a member of the Ottawa city council. Professor DeFord is a member of Lodge No. 325, Free and Accepted Masons, and -of Ottawa Chapter No. 115, and of Ottawa Council No. 69. He has also been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since 1857, having joined the order at Newton Falls, Ohio. Professor DeFord is also a mem- ber of the Royal Arcanum. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal ■church and became a communicant of that church at the age of sixteen. In 1864 he was ordained a minister of the Methodist church. Throughout his busy life. Professor DeFord has been prominent in the ^educational, religious and civic life of Ottawa and Putnam counties. He is one of the foremost citizens of Putnam county and his career was founded upon scrupulous honesty and conscientious relations with his fellow citi- zens. He is undoubtedly one of the representative citizens of Putnam county. BARNEY HENRY MAAG. The man whose name appears above is widely known as one of the honored citizens of Putnam county. He has resided here all his life, being a member of one of the leading families in the community and prominently identified with the farming interests throughout this region of country. His well-directed efforts in the practical management of his affairs and his sound judgment, have brought to him a fair measure of prosperity, and in all the relations of his life he has commanded the respect and confidence of those with whom he has been brought in contact. Barney Henry Maag was born in Pleasant township, this county, March 28, 1881, and is the son of William and Bernardina (Kahli) Maag, whose life-record is given elsewhere in this work under the name of John C. Maag. Barney Henry Maag spent his youth on his father's farm in this county, Pleasant township, and received his education in the township schools, but was not a regular attendant for the reason 'that he was obliged to work on 412 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. the farm. After remaining with his parents until the age of maturity, he was married on November 27, 1907, to Helena Meyer, daughter of Theo- dore and Mary Ann (Drerup) Meyer, who was born in Ottawa township,, this county. Her father was a native of Germany and came to this county with his parents when he was seven years of age. They first settled in Ot- tawa township, near the town of Glandorf, this county, where Theodore spent his early days and grew to manhood. Soon after his marriage he bought forty acres of farming land in this neighborhood, to which he added more land, from time to time, until the homestead place contained a total of ninety-five acres. He later bought an additional one hundred acres, which is now occupied by his son, Antoon Meyer, who bought it from his father. Theodore Meyer followed the business of farming throughout his life, and was successful. His death occurred on October 24, 1897, at which time he was in the sixty-fourth year of his age. Mr. Maag's wife's mother was a native of the town of Glandorf, Ohio, where she was born on July 17, 1838, and after living a most devoted, useful and successful life as a helpmate to her husband, during his pioneer and later life, she lived until Septem- ber 16, 1913, leaving behind her sweet memories of cheerfulness and love for the family that now mourn her loss. To their union were born thirteen children, as follow: Theodore, deceased; Anton, Frank, deceased; Barney, deceased; Joseph, who lives in the state of Michigan; Mrs. Joseph Deters, of Glandorf, Ohio; Mary, who lives in Glandorf, Ohio; August, who lives in Michigan; Mrs. Henry Hagerman, of Delphos, Ohio; Fronia, who fives with Anton; John, of Kalida, Ohio; Helena, subject's wife; and Edward, who lives on the homestead place, in Ottawa township, this county. After Barney Henry Maag was married, he bought eighty acres, which IS a part of the present farm, and subsequently bought twenty acres form his father and another twenty acres which was known as the "Avenish Farm," and adjoined his previous purchases. These holdings give him a total of one hundred and twenty acres, on which he has entirely remodeled or built new buildings, so that today this farm takes on the appearance of a well-kept, thoroughly-productive farm, being the result of unceasing energy, perseverance, and well-directed management. This land required consider- able ditching, draining and fencing, before it was entirely suitable for culti- vation and stock-raising and today it is considered highly productive and enables the owner to realize a satisfactory profit from his crops and the live stock he feeds. In addition to general farming Mr. Maag takes con- siderable interest in live stock, particularly in full-blooded horses, and is PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 413 the owner of a Percheron-Norman stallion which is valued at a high figure and which is used' for breeding purposes. Mr. Maag does not take an active interest in any fraternal organiza- tions, nor is he active in politics, but has always supported the Democratic party and firmly believes in the progressive principles set forth by that party. He and his family are members of the Catholic church in Glandorf, Ohio, where they are regular attendants and contribute to the support according to their means. Mr. Maag is a member of the Putnam County German Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and, personally, is a man honored and re- spected by every one in the community that knows him. His acquaintance and friendship is large and socially he is a man well met. WILLIAM RAMPE. When Dean Swift gave utterance to that immortal passage in his Gulliver's Travels : "And he gave it for his opinion that whoever could make two ears of corn or two blades of grass to grow where only one grew .be- fore, would deserve better of mankind, and do more essential service to his •country than the whole race of politicians put together," he paid the highest possible compliment to that large class of intelligent tillers of the soil whose most earnest endeavors are directed toward the effective cultivation of the lands under their charge and care. Under the scientific direction of the government's department of agriculture and the state's equally well-directed efforts along the same line, the farmers of Putnam county, in the present generation, are literally performing wonders in the way of intelligent, effec- tive agriculture and the public benefactor whom Swift foreshadowed in his imaginative way, has been outdone by many, the crop records of the past in this county not only having been doubled — two ears of corn growing where one grew before — but have been trebled, and more, l^y the careful tillage which the modern farmer has found so essential to the successful •cultivation of his acres. Among these signally successful farmers of this section of the state, none have secured better results than many of those of German birth or ancestry in this county, who not only have brought to their important task the best lessons of intensive farming so carefully fol- lowed in the old country, but have applied to all their doings those equally valuable traditions of thrift and prudence, so characteristic of the people ■of the Fatherland. And among this latter class, few* in Putnam county 414 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. are better known or more popular among his large circle of acquaintances than is William Rampe, a progressive and successful farmer of Ottawa township, to a brief sketch of whose career the biographer is glad to call attention at this point in this interesting review of the lives of the leading citizens of Putnam county. William Rampe was born in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio, on a farm close to the town of Ottawa, April 27, 1859, the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Nottingbrock) Rampe, both of whom were natives of Ger- many. Joseph Rampe was born in Glandorf, Hanover, Germany, in 1825 and upon reaching manhood's estate immigrated to America, having become convinced that better opportunities awaited him on this side than he might hope to find presented in the old country. He landed in New York and at once entered upon the exercise of his trade, that of a tailor, in which he had become proficient before leaving Germany. In New York he worked at this trade until he had saved enough money to send back to Germany to secure the passage of his mother and three brothers to this country. Upon the arrival of these other members of his family, the Rampes con- tmued for a time to remain in New York, but presently pushed on further west, locating at Covington, Kentucky, across the river from Cincinnati, where Joseph Rampe continued his trade as a tailor. After a sometime resi- dence there, he married Elizabeth Nottingbrock, wRo was born in Germany, August 27, 1827, daughter of Henry Nottingbrock, who came to America with her parents at the age of seven years and who died on March 12, 1915, at the ripe old age of eighty-seven years, six months and thirteen days. Shortly following this marriage in 1844 Joseph Rampe and his wife joined the German colony in this county, Mrs. Rampe's parents having long been residents of the Glandorf community, where she grew up, and Joseph put in his lot with his father-in-law, with whom he and his wife made their home, helping on the Nottingbrock farm until the death of Mr. Nottingbrock, after which Joseph took charge, gradually paying ofif the obligations which rested agamst the Nottingbrock farm, eventually buying the same, which at that tune consisted of fifty-three acres. To this he added, as his circum- stances grew better, until at the time of his death, at the early age of thirty- seven, m March, 1862, he was the owner of ninety-three acres of well- cultivated land. Joseph Rampe was an industrious man whose ambition was centered in his family and in the hope that their condition in life might be easier than his had been and, at his death, he was sincerely mourned by many m the community in which he had so cheerfully put in his lot Joseph PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 4ie and Elizabeth (Nottingbrock) Rampe were the parents of five children, Frank, Henry, two who died in infancy, and William, the immediate subject of this biographical review. William Rampe spent his boyhood days in Ottawa township, growing up on the homestead farm where he was born. Receiving such schooling as was provided at that period, at the age of sixteen, decided to try his fortunes further afield. With this object in view, he went to Missouri, where for four years he engaged in farming, "working out" to such advantage as might accrue to his labors. Not finding things in that state wholly to his liking, young Rampe returned home and helped on the farm until his. marriage, on March 3, 1886, to Anna Catherine Borgelt, daughter of William and Anna (Threasey) Borgelt, who was born on April 29, 1867, on the home place in Ottawa township. An interesting review of the career of the Borgelt family in this county is presented on another pag# of this volume in the biographical sketch relating to Herman Borgelt, a brother of Mrs. Rampe. Following his marriage, William Rampe lived for four years in the home of his father-in-law in Ottawa township, assisting in the management of the farm, at the end of which time he bought his present home farm of eighty acres in Pleasant township. This land was all heavily timbered when he bought it at an appraised value of two thousand two hundred dollars. The farm at that time was undrained, there being no outlets for ditches and, in bringing his place to its present excellent state of cultivation, Mr. Rampe incurred an indebtedness of three thousand two hundred dollars, which he has regarded as a good investment. By hard work and close application he has ma'de a good farm of his timber tract, clearing, ditching and other- wise improving the same, and has a good house and all necessary out- buildings. He is now regarded as one of the most prosperous farmers in his neighborhood. To William and Anna Catherine (Borgelt) Rampe were born two chil- dren, Joseph Edward, an ambitious young farmer of Sugar Creek township, who married Emma Buckradd and has three children, Raymond, Anna Louisa Francisco and Ruth, and William Sylvester, who died at the' age of ten months. The Rampes are members of the Catholic church at Glandorf and are devoted to the best interests of that parish, being also active in such other good works as concern most intimately their immediate neighborhood and ■are very properly held as among the leading people of that section of the county. Mr. Rampe is a Republican, having cast his first vote for Presi- dent Garfield, and takes an intelligent interest in local politics, though he 4l6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. never has been included among the office-seeking class. He is a member of the Order of the Reindeer, belonging to Ottawa Lodge No. 516, and takes an active interest in the affairs of that fraternal organization. He is a jolly companion, a kind and loving husband and father, a lover of children, essentially a "home man," and bears a high reputation in his community be- cause of his honesty, frankness and sincerity in all his relations with his fel- low men. JOHN W. HALKER. One of the best known citizens of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, is John W. Halker. His whole career of more than three score years has been spent within this county. His father came here in 1843 frota Glandorf, •Germany, located in Union township, and made this county his home the re- mainder of his life. Mr. Halker began business for himself in 1881, in Glan- dorf, and has since made this village his home. He has always taken a very active part in the upbuilding of his community. John W. Halker, the treasurer of the Glandorf Building & Loan Asso- ciation, was born in Union township, Putnam county, Ohio, February 3, 1854. He is a son of H. W. and Catherine (Beucher) Halker. His father was a native of Glandorf, Germany, and came to this country when he was about thirty years of age, locating in Putnam county in 1843, on a farm of one hundred and twenty acres. He improved this farm and made it his home until i860, when he moved to Glandorf and engaged in the grocery and saloon business, until his death, August 18, 1890, at the age of seventy-seven. H. W. Halker was married in this county to Catherine Beucher, who was born not far from Glandorf, Hanover, Germany, and died at Glandorf, Put- nam county, Ohio, in February, 1897. There were seven children born to H. W. Halker and wife, Mary, who died in January, 1891, the wife of Henry Nolte, of Delphos, Ohio; David, of Ottawa; John W., of Glandorf; Cather- ine, living in Glandorf, Ohio; Matthew; Aggie, the wife of Lawrence Bohn, of Toledo, Ohio ; Henry, who died in 1906, having survived his wife, who now lives in Glandorf. John W. Halker was educated in the schools of Glandorf, and finished his education in Cincinnati. He began business for himself in 1881 by open- ing a grocery and saloon in Glandorf, and continued in this business, success- fully, until 1903, when he disposed of it to his brother, Henry. Mr. Halker helped organize the Glandorf German Building & Loan Association in 1887, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 417 and since its organization has been an official, serving as appraiser, a mem- ber of the finance committee, treasurer and president. He is also secretary of the Glandorf German Mutual Insurance Association. In addition to this, he is interested in agriculture, and owns considerable land in the vicinity of •Glandorf, besides his beautiful home and other property in the village. He has long been one of the leaders in his county and is a man of unquestioned integrity. For four years he served as treasurer of his township, and for twenty-five years was treasurer of the St. John's Benevolent Society, severing his connection with this society in November, 1913. He has been active in the councils of the Democratic party of Putnam county, and has been one •of its leaders for many years. He is of a sociable disposition and is well known and universally liked throughout the county. He is a broad-minded and progressive man, and has always been foremost in promoting enterprises which were calculated to benefit his home town or the public at large. Mr. Halker was married on October 10, 1894, to Lizzie Franke, who was born and reared in Glandorf, and is a daughter of Frederick and Cathe- rine (Ellerbrock) Franke. Frederick Franke, the father of Mrs. Halker, was born about three miles from Essen, Saxony, Germany, in 1843, and is a son of Ernest Franke. After Jiis mother's death he was brought to America by his father when he was five years of age. Ernest Franke was a blacksmith and operated a shop in Palmer township, on the edge of the prairie, at a time when wolves and other dangerous beasts were still roaming the forests. Ernest Franke was a fine workman and was an expert cutlerymaker. He died when Frederick was about nine years of age at which time the boy was bound out until he was eighteen. At the opening of the Civil War, Frederick Franke enlisted in Company D, Twenty-first Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. After his return he finished learning the shoe- maker's trade and became a fine workman. He went to Cincinnati and worked at his trade for three years, in the meantime attending night school. While in that city, he also learned to be a stationary engineer, and upon re- turning to Putnam county he became the engineer at the woolen mills in 'Glandorf for several years. However, this close confinement was undermin- ing his health, when he became an agent for the Singer Sewing Machine Com- pany and worked for them for fifteen years, at the expiration of which time he resigned his position with this company and became the manager of the lumber yard in Glandorf, retaining this position for ten years. He bought a ■share in a lumber and planing mill at Kalida in 1907 and two years later was 27 4l8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. injured by a machine in the mill and was compelled to retire from active work. He is now making his home at Kalida. Catherine Ellerbrock, the wife of Frederick Franke, was born at Glandorf, and is a daughter of Diet- rich Ellerbrock and wife. Her people came from Hanover, Germany, in 1834, and located at Glandorf, in Putnam county, among the very first settlers. Mr. and Mrs. Halker are consistent members of the St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf, and are deeply interested in its welfare, being generous, contributors to its support, always punctual in their fulfillment of churchi duties. Mrs. Halker's many activities brought her in touch with kind and loving friends. In accord with her husband's interests, she was a devoted helpmeet,, a faithful wife and an inspiration to those who knew her. She died ia March, 1915. AMOS WILBUR BEST. Amos Wilbur Best, one of the leading farmers of Union township,, was born in the same township, on the farm on which he still lives, October 26, 1869, the son of John Calvin and Sarah A. (Nichols) Best, the former of whom was born in Rose township, Carroll county, Ohio, December 16^ 1841, the son of George and Sarah (Wagner) Best, the latter of whom was- born in Union township, Putnam county, Ohio, March 22, 1841, the daughter of Edward and Margaret (Erwin) Nichols. George Best, grandfather of the immediate subject of this sketch, was- the son of John Best and was a life-long farmer. He was reared on the farm in Rose township, Carroll county, Ohio, on which he was born and acquired such schooling as was provided in that period. He was a stone cutter, a brick mason and a carpenter, which trades he followed in the neigh- borhood in which he was reared. George Best was united in marriage to Sarah Wagner in 1840, who was born in Rose township, Carroll county, Ohio, the daughter of Jacob and Margaret (Durst) Wagner, both of whom were born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, the latter being of Irish-, parentage, her brother, James, having been a soldier in the Mexican War. Four years after their marriage, or in the year 1844, George Best and his wife and their two small children came to Putnam county and settled in Sugar Creek township, buying a tract of land which then was an utter- wilderness of unbroken forest. This farm, in due course of time, was. brought to a high state of cultivation and here George Best and his wife- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ajq reared their family and spent the rest of their Hves, his death occurring in Alay, 1874, at the age of fifty-four years, his wife surviving him many years, her death not occurring until in May, 1897. He was a stanch Democrat, took an active part in the political affairs of the county, and had served his town- ship several times in various capacities in public office. He was a member of the Lutheran church, while his wife was a member of the Christian church, and both were ever active in the good works of the community. To George and Sarah (Wagner) Best were born nine children, John Cal- vin, to whom reference is made below; Mary A., deceased, was the wife of David Hughes, of Macon county, Missouri; Sarah A., deceased, was the wife of George Holderman, of Newton, Kansas; Emeline, deceased, was the wife of Quincy Goodman, also now deceased, of Columbus Grove, Ohio; Anne, the wife of Sherman Hubert, of Dupont, this county; Jane, the wife of Denial Sneary, living near Vaughnsville, in Sugar Creek township, this county; Ella, the wife of William E. Nichols, of Grove Hill, Paulding county, Ohio; Arie R., the wife of Hendon Catlett, of Detroit, Michigan, and one child who died in infancy. John Calvin Best was born in Carroll county, Ohio, and came to Put- nam county with his parents at the age of three years. In the schools of Sugar Creek township he received his education and was reared a farmer and carpenter. When little more than a boy, on August 12, 1862, he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer In- fantry, and served until the close of the war. He took part in the battles of Moss Creek, Buzzard Roost, Resaca, Lost Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, Duck River, Franklin, Nashville, Fort Anderson and numerous others, and during the latter part of the war, having been injured, was de- tailed as clerk in the quartermaster's department, under General Schofield, where he received his discharge at White Hall, Pennsylvania, in 1865. John Calvin Best was united in marriage on January 16, 1868, with Sarah A. Nichols, of Union township, this county, whose father was 'a na- tive of Licking county, Ohio, and one of the earliest settlers in Putnam county. Further details of the genealogy of Mrs. Best may be found in the biographical sketch of her brother, Amos Nichols, of Union township presented elsewhere in this volume. After their marriage, Mr and Mrs' Best lived for four years on a farm in Sugar Creek township and in 1873 moved to their present farm in Union township. Here they originally had two hundred acres, which was reduced to its present extent of one hundred and twenty acres by the sale of forty acres and the gift to their son of another forty. The Ime between Sugar Creek and Union township divides this farm 420 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. which is regarded as one of the best in that part of the county. John Cal- vin Best is a good farmer and is one of the substantial members of the com- munity. Mr. Best is a stanch Democrat, as was his father before him, and for many years has been regarded as one of the leaders of that party in his section of the county. He has been township trustee and a member of the county board of agriculture, besides which he has held minor township offi- ces. He and the members of his family are members of the Christian church. He is a member of Ogilvie. Post, No. 64, Grand Army of the Republic. To John Calvin and Sarah A. (Nichols) Best were born four children, Amos W., the immediate subject of this sketch; Alfred, a farmer of Union township, now deceased; Mrs. Sarah A. Streetor, deceased, and John E., a farmer of Union township, who married Daisy Miller and has one child, Sarah Eveline. Amos Wilber Best, eldest son of John Calvin and Sarah A. (Nichols) Best was educated in the schools of his native township and was reared a farmer, remaining on the paternal faiTn until his marriage, at the age of twenty-nine, when he moved to the farm on which he now lives and where he has engaged in general farming with success. Mr. Best is a Democrat and takes an interest in political affairs, but is not included in the office- seeking class. Amos Wilber Best was united in marriage on April 21, 1898, to Mary E. McCrate, daughter of Joseph McCrate, a member of one of the old families of this county, additional details of whose genealogy may be found in the bio- graphical sketch of Edward L. McCrate, a brother of Mrs. Best, which is pre- sented elsewhere in this volume. To the union of Amos Wilber and Mary E. (McCrate) Best, three children have been bom, Gerald Pierce, Lawrence, and one who died in infancy. Gerald Pierce Best recently attained a notable bit of distinction by being one of the prize winners in the boys' corn- growing contest in this county, which not only secured to him the award of the prize offered by the William Kahle bank, at Ottawa, but secured for him a place in the delegation of Ohio boy corn growers which was sent to Washington under the state auspices and which received such signal attention at the hands of the President and the department of agriculture. He raised a fraction over one-half bushel more than one hundred and twenty- two bushels of corn on one acre of land on his father's farm, exercisine" in this fine agricultural exploit a degree of judgment and a knowledge of scientific farming which marked him as a youth of unusual parts. He is a very bright young man and was selected as one of the delegates representing PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 421 the boy corn growers of the country to the Panama-Pacific Exposition, at San Francisco. Mr. and Mrs. Best have a fine home on the main road to KaUda and take an active part in the social affairs of the neighborhood. They are both members of Ben Hut Lodge at Columbus Grove. Mrs. Best, before her marriage, was one of the leading school teachers in Putnam county, having taught for many years in the district schools. She is a member of the Catholic church at Columbus Grove and is a highly-educated woman. They have one of the good farms in the county, both in the matter of its soil as well as location, and are very pleasantly and comfortably situated. AMOS C. DILLER. Whether the elements of success in life are innate attributes of the in- dividual or whether they are quickened by a process of circumstantial de- velopment, it is impossible clearly to determine. The study of a successful life, whatever the field of endeavor, is none the less interesting and profit- able by reason of the existence of this uncertainty. So much in excess of those successes in life are the failures and semi-failures that one is com- pelled to examine and analyze to find proximate causes. In studying the life history of Amos C. Diller, former school teacher and now a successful tile manufacturer and farmer, as well as poultry fancier, we find many qualities in his make-up that win success. For many years, Mr. Diller was a successful teacher in the schools of Putnam county. Subsequently, he became an enterprising farmer, and, dtiring these years, he has looked after the details of several business enterprises, including a tile factory, and has finally devoted a considerable amount of time to fancy poultry, with which he has also been successful. Amos C. Diller was born on June 21, 1871, in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of John G. and Elizabeth (Schumacher) Diller. John G. Diller was also born in Riley township, February 21, 1841, the son of Peter and Barbara (Suter) Diller. Peter Diller was born about 18 13, in Alsace-Lorraine, and was the son of Christian Diller and wife, the former of whom was a farmer. Peter Diller came to America at the age of fourteen with his mother and elder brother, John, the father having previously died. They arrived in America about 1827, and settled first in Holmes county, but some time ^^^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. later came to Putnam county. They settled in Riley township, where Peter Diller entered one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 26 This became the old Diller homestead. He later added other lands unil he owned three hundred and twenty acres. When Peter Diller settled in Putnam county, he was unmarried. He hrst entered his land, built a log cabin, and, about a year later, was married ta Barbara Suter. He took up his residence on the new homestead when all of his worldly goods consisted of one horse and a wagon and a few supplies with which to begin his battle with the wilderness. His were the common experiences of the pioneers. He and his wife suffered all of the privations and hardships incident to such life. He was compelled to go either to Perrysburg or Tiffin to mill, such trips taking several days. Peter Diller and wife had eight children, six sons and two daughters all of whom lived to maturity, with the exception of one son, Christian, who died at the age of sixteen years. They were Christian, Adam, John, Magdalena Benjamin, Peter, Mary and David. John G. Diller, the father of Amos C, grew up on the old homestead He attended the typical log cabin- school, and helped his father clear the land When he was ten years old, his father built the house which still stands. Two years later, in 1853, he built the bam which is also in a splen- did state of preservation. _ Wheh John G. Diller ^vas twenty-seven years old, he was married to lihzabeth Schumacher, the wedding taking place on March 14, 1868 She was born on March 15, 1848, in Richland township, Allen county, and who IS the daughter of John and Barbara (Steiner) Schumacher. John Schu- macher was the brother of Peter Schumacher, who was the father of six- teen children, among whom was Christian P., the life-story of whom is told eJsewhere in this volume. After his marriage, John G. Diller remained on the old place. He took a trip to California for his health and died there on March 7, 1908. He led a very active life and was engaged as a general farmer, having been .quite successful in this vocation. He was a Democrat and served as school director for a number of years. He was a member of the Mennonite church. John G. Diller and wife had nine children, the eldest of whom died m infancy. The others were William, Amos, Bertha Levina, Noah, Lena, Elmer and Sarah, all of whom are now living and all marned except Bertha. Mrs. John G. Diller died on April i 1881 Amos C. Diller was born on the old homestead of his 'father and grandfather and here grew to manhood. He first attended the old district school. No. 6, and later district No. 10. After finishing the common schools ' PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 423 he took three terms of work at the Tri-State Normal School, at Angola, Indiana, and then attended the Blliffton high school the next winter. The following winter he taught school and the summer following this had special Tiormal work in Findlay College. After this, for about ten years, he con- tinued teaching, and then took a teacher's summer course at Bluffton Col- lege, after which he taught again. Altogether, Mr. Diller taught ten years. When twenty-seven years old, he was married to Lena Schumacher, the marriage taking place on September 25, 1898. She was born on January 24, 1875, in Richland township, Allen county, and is the daughter of John and Barbara (Geiger) Schumacher. John Schumacher was a son of Christian Schumacher. He was one of the strongest men, physically, in this part of the state. He was bom on August 5, 1849, and died on November 7, 1907. His wife, who was Barbara Geiger before her marriage, was born on October i, 1855, and died May 3, 1897. They had thirteen children, Lena, Susan, Mary, Peter, Elias, Gideon, Lizzie, Jesse, Salome, Martha, John Adam and Minnis, the two latter being deceased. Amos C. Diller continued to teach for four years after his marriage and then located on the farm, of David Diller, which was originally a part of Peter Diller's estate, and which Amos C. Diller purchased from Ferdinand Reichenbach. This farm he still owns and here he lives today. In addition to farming, Mr. Diller has been engaged in the manufacture of tile for about twenty years, being associated with his uncle, Benjamin Diller, and his brother, William. This concern does a large and lucrative business, and for the past eight years Amos C. Diller has owned and operated this business alone. In. addition to his' other activiies, Mr. Diller is an expert breeder of Rose Comb Rhode Island Red poultry. He has taken first prize on this breed at Bluffton, Lima, Findlay, Delphos, Pandora and at the Ohio State Poultry exhibit at Columbus. In addition to these prizes, many of Mr. Diller's birds have taken prizes for their owners at other places. Amos C. Diller is a stockholder and president of the Jenera Merchan- dise Company, of Jenera, Ohio. He is also a stockholder and secretary of the D. C. Shank Company, of Pandora, Ohio, and is treasurer of the Men- nonite Mutual Aid Society and Insurance Company. To Mr. and Mrs. Amos C. Diller, seven children have been born, Orlo. born on August 23, 1899; Bessie, born on September 4, 1902; Edna, born on April 15, 1904; Edison, born on May 26, 1905; Jennie, born on July 14, 1906; Ray, born on April 15, 191 1, and Lester, born on August 27, 1913. Mr. Diller is a Democrat. He is one of Riley township's most interest- 424 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ing and successful citizens, an aggressive and alert business man, a success- ful farmer and a well-informed and valuable citizen. He and his wife and family are members of the Mennonite church. JAMES MacDONALD. Putnam county has many residents who have prospered in business- One of her citizens, who has made a notable success in the lumber business,, is James MacDonald, who is thoroughly acquainted with his line of business,, from the ground up, which fact undoubtedly accounts for much of his success. James MacDonald was born on February 23, 1873, in Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio, the son of William John and Margaret (McKeen) MacDon- ald. William J. MacDonald was born in the parish of Killyman, County Ty- rone, Ireland, in 1839. His father -in turn came from- Scotland and was a soldier in the British army, serving in South Africa. By reason of his serv- ices as a soldier, he became the possessor of a tract of land in Ireland, and made his home there. W. J. MacDonald was probably twenty-five years of age when he came to America and located at Cleveland, Ohio. He was mar- ried in Belfast, Ireland, to Margaret McKeen, a 'native of Carmoney, near Belfast, County Antrim, a daughter of James and Elizabeth (Roberts) McKeen. She lived in Ireland until after her marriage, and before they came to America, one daughter was born, now the wife of I. Pressley Sher- rard, living on the MacDonald farm at the north edge of Leipsic. Mr. and Mrs. MacDonald lived in Cleveland from 1865 until 1871, where he followed his trade as a bricklayer and stonemason. He came to Putnam county in 1871, and purchased twenty acres of land at the north edge of Leipsic, where he has resided since. Here he continued at his trade and contracted for a number of years. He had a part in the erection of most of the larger brick buildings in Leipsic. While at work on the Metho- dist church in 1895 he met with an accident in which several bones were broken, which weakened him so that he was compelled to relinquish his life work. Five children were born to William J. MacDonald and wife, Mrs. Min- nie Sherrard, a resident of this county; William J., of Liberty township; George W., a contractor, who died at Cincinnati, Ohio, in 191 1; Alexander, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and James, of Leipsic. The mother of these Q ''A A PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 425. children died on August 4, 19 14, at the age of eighty- three. She was an active supporter of the Presbyterian church, as was her husband. W. J. MacDonald was a charter member of the Knights of Pythias lodge at Leip- sic, and died December 11, 19 14, at his home in Leipsic. James MacDonald grew up at Leipsic and learned bricklaying and stone- cutting with his brother. He worked at the trade about fifteen years, during which time he engaged in contracting. He continued in that capacity until 1908. He also engaged in the retail builders' supply business at Leipsic about the year 1899. He opened up a lumber yard at Leipsic in 1905. With it he combined a line of builders' supplies, and has since continued in that business. Mr. MacDonald has been conspicuously successful and does- a very large business in his line. He built one of the handsomest brick residences in 1912 in Leipsic, where he now resides. Mr. MacDonald was married on May 3, 1893, to- Capitola Isabelle Close. She was born between Gilboa and Benton Ridge, in, the west part of Hancock county, Ohio, the daughter of Solomon Markley and Sarah Elizabeth (Kindle) Close. Solomon Close was born in October, 1834, in Putnam county, not far from Bluff ton, and was a son of Michael, and Jane Close. Solomon Close was a farmer until he reached old age and lived part of the time between Gilboa and Benton Ridge. He later moved to Van Buren township, in this county, and now lives in West Leipsic. He was a soldier in the Civil War, a member of Company G, One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served for three ani one-half years. He was never wounded nor in a hospital. He is now a member of the Post of the Grand Army of the Republic at Leipsic, in which; fraternal order he takes a great interest. Mrs. MacDonald grew to womanhood in Putnam county. To James- MacDonald and wife eight children were born, three of whom died in in- fancy. The five living children are Florence Menetta, Lawrence James,. Serge R. C, Vivian Beatrice and Evelyn Rose. Mr. MacDonald is a stanch adherent of the Republican party, but takes no active interest in political affairs, preferring rather to devote all his time- and attention to his extensive business interests. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, while Mrs. MacDonald is a member of the Pythian Sisters. Both Mr. MacDonald and his wife are loyal and earnest members of the Presbyterian church, in whose welfare they are deeply interested, and to whose support they are liberal contributors. They are highly respected citizens of their community, enjoying the esteem -of a large number of neigh- bors and friends. 426 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. JOHN THEODORE MOENING. Among the best-remembered successful farmers of the past generation in Putnam county was the late John Theodore Moening. Of this man it -may be said that he possessed strong and active sympathies ; his tempera- ment was warm and ardent, his feelings deep and intense, and these and •other characteristics unconsciously drew him an unusual number of devoted friends, upon whom, under all circumstances, he could rely, and who, now that he has passed away from earthly scenes, revere his memory. He was a close student of human nature and comprehended with little effort, the -motives and purposes of men, and he was a lover of truth and sincerity. In ■brief, he is remembered as a manly man, of pleasing but dignified presence, a student of many subjects and an influential man in the circles in which he moved. Of sound character and unflagging energy, he stood as a con- spicuous example of the well-developed American, and his position as one of the community's representative citizens was conceded by all who knew him. John Theodore Moening was born in Ottawa township, Putnam ■county, Ohio, -September 2, 1867, and was the son of Henry and Elizabeth (Ellerbrock) Moening, whose life history is given elsewhere in this work, under the caption, "Henry Moening." Mr. Moening remained on his father's farm near Glandorf, Ohio, and received his education in the neighboring schools. At the age of twenty- two he was married to Matilda Brockman, which event occurred on Novem- ber 19, 1889. His wife was the daughter of Joseph and Caroline (Lam- vehr) Brockman and was born in Fort Jennings, Putnam county, Ohio. Her father was a native of Assurbrick, which is not far from Glandorf, Ger- many, and came to this country alone when a very young man. Having ac- quired a thorough knowledge of the carpenter's trade in Germany and be- lievmg there were good opportunities for a man of his ability in the city of Cmcmnati, Ohio, he first went there, but later decided to go to Glandorf Putnam county, Ohio, where he farmed for a while and did some carpenter ■work, then removed to Fort Jennings, this county, where he was employed to build the St. Joseph's Catholic church and which was started in i8s^ After completmg this work he retired from active work in the carpenter Ime and went to live on a small tract near town, which he farmed in a small way until the time of his death in 1896, in the eighty-second year of his ^ge. He was a Democrat, but took no active part in these affairs He was a devout member of the St. Joseph's Catholic church. His wife Cai-oline PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 427 •(Lamvehr) Brockman, was a native of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, and was born on September 25, 1845. She is now residing on the home- -Stead place, near Fort Jennings, this county, and at the present time is in the seventy-ninth year of her age. To their union were born eight children as -follows: Joseph, of Fort Jennings; Carohne (Mrs. Reavie), of Ottawa town- -ship, this county; Henry, of Dayton, Ohio; Elizabeth (Mrs. Moening), of Glandorf, Ohio; Mary (Mrs. Westfelt), of Kahda, Ohio; Matilda, wife •of our subject; Lewis, who resides on the old homestead near Fort Jennings, -and Christena, deceased; Josephine (A^Irs. Helcamp), of Ft. Jennings, was a daughter by a former marriage. After the marriage of John T. Moening and wife, he went to live on his farm, which consisted of eighty-two acres, and continued to live •on this place until the time of his death, April 6, 1914. When he bought this tract, there were but forty acres of clear land and the rest of it was in heavy timber. A great deal of his time was occupied in clearing the place, ■ditching, draining and fencing, and today this place is considered one of the most productive small farms in this section. When Mr. Moening was a young man of eighteen he took a great deal of interest in threshing ma- ■chinery, and having bought himself an outfit of this kind he proceeded to :go about the county threshing for the farmers and thus gained a wide acquaintance and was generally known to be absolutely upright and fair in his dealings, and had the respect and high esteem of everyone who knew him. The direct cause of his death was cancer of the liver, from which he was a quiet and patient sufferer. His attending physician constantly warned him of the danger and repeatedly told him that he had but a short time to live, nevertheless he kept the true facts, pertaining to his condition, from his wife and family and always appeared before them with such a cheerful man- ner that they little suspected his grave physical condition. To Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Moening were born five children, as follow: 1-evina (Mrs. Louis Schroeder), who lives on a farm in Pleasant township, this county; Adaline (Mrs. Arnold Schroeder) who lives in Pleasant town- ship and has a son, Harold; Amanda, Clarence and Hilerious, who live at home with their mother. Mr. Moening was not an aggressive politician in his day, but at one time was a member of the board of school directors. He was a Democrat and at all times stood for the progressive methods proposed by that party. The entire family were regular members of the Catholic church and Mr. Moening was a member of the board of church trustees for four years. 428 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Personally, he was a man of broad ideas and ever alert to lend any assist- ance he could toward all meritorious propositions that purported to be tO' the best interests of the community, and on account of his wide acquaint- ance and familiar figure in important gatherings, his death will always be keenly felt by every one who knew him. JOHN W. MEYER. One of the best-known young farmers and stock dealers in Putnam county is John W. Meyer, whose attractive place in Union township is the subject of admiring attention on the part of travelers on the highway which leads past the place, and whose stable of full-blooded Belgian horses is known far and near throughout the county. Mr. Meyer is one of the younger generation of farmers who are taking advantage of all the latest research along agricultural hues and in consequence has one of the best-kept and most productive small farms in his part of the county. He is alert in all that pertains to his business, for he is a farmer who looks upon farming as a real business and not a mere haphazard strewing of grain, and holds a high place in his community. His progressive methods certainly .entitle him to mention among the men of enterprise in Putnam county and the biographer finds pleasure in presenting, at this point, a brief outline of the salient points in his career. John W. Meyer was born in Pleasant township, Putnam county, Ohio,, on Christmas Day, 1887, a son of John B. and Catherine (Smith) Meyer, both of whom were born in Ottawa township, in the same county. John B. Meyer, who is now living a retired life in the city of Ottawa, the county seat of Putnam county, is the son of George Meyer, a former well-known and influential farmer of Union township, this county, who came to this country from Germany, first settling on a farm near Glandorf, this county, where he married and where his children were born, and where he lived until the death of his wife, after which he bought a farm in Union township, the place at present owned and occupied by his son-in-law, Joseph Unverfurth, where he spent the rest of his life. George Meyer and his wife were the parents of the following children : John B., Joseph, Elizabeth, Theresa, Katherine and Caroline, all of whom were brought up in the Catholic faith. John B. Meyer was reared on the paternal farm and was educated in PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 429 the nearby school at Glandorf. Until his marriage to Catherine Smith, ■whose parents were among the early settlers in Putnam county, he lived on his father's farm, but previous to his marriage had bought a farm of ■one hundred and sixty acres in Ottawa township, to which he moved upon .his marriage, and rapidly brought it to a good state of cultivation. He lived there for about twenty years, at the end of which time he bought a farm of two hundred and twenty-six acres on section 17, in Union township, on which he erected as fine a set of farm buildings as there was in that part of the county at that time. His dwelling house was large, roomy and com- fortable, substantial in every detail, and the farm buildings were in keeping with the same. The barn, which Mr. Meyer erected at that time, was foi many years a veritable landmark in that section, its peculiar style of archi- tecture attracting general attention, it being built in circular shape and was regarded as one of the finest in the county. Mr. Meyer lived on this place for about fourteen years and then sold that part of the farm containing the house and farm buildings, comprising forty acres, to his son, John W., who now Hves there. He then purchased a home in Ottawa and moved to the county seat, where he is now living in comfortable retirement from the activities of life, enjoying the fruits of his earlier days of industrious appli- cation to the business of the farm. About twenty years ago Mrs. Meyer, mother of the immediate subject of this sketch, died, and Mr. Meyer took to himself a second wife, marrying Catherine Hark. To John B. and Catherine (Smith) Meyer were born four children, as follow: Mary, who married Michael Donnersbauch and lives on a farm near St. Clair, Michigan; August, who married Laura Erhart and lives in the town of Glandorf, this county; John W., the subject of this sketch, and Frederick, who married Susan Sleeter and lives in Ft. Jeniiings, this county. John W. Meyer was reared on the paternal farm, attending both the district school of that neighborhood and the school at Glandorf. He mar- ried Josephine Dangler on July 8, 1913, daughter of Edward and Margaret Dangler, both natives of this state, who, after their marriage, located on a farm near Ottawa, this county, later moving to Defia:nce, Ohio, • where they lived for ten years, at the end of which time they moved back to Putnam county, locating on a farm in Union township, on which they still live. They are the parents of three children, Josephine, Alva and Genevieve, all of whom are members of St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida, with which Mr. Meyer also is connected. On his small, but highly-cultivated farm Mr. Meyer is obtaining ex^ 430 PUTNAM COUNTY, OPIIO. cellent results. In connection with his work of general farming he is deeply- interested in the raising of full-blooded Belgian horses and is developing- this branch of his operations into a very well-defined business. He gives^ close attention to the general public affairs of his community and is regarded as one of the coming men of advanced thought in farming lore in that part of the county. He is one of the directors of the Mutual Telephone Com- pany at Kalida. He and his wife take an active part in the social affairs of the neighborhood and are very popular among their large circle of ac- quaintances. SHERMAN A. WILKINS. Among the enterprising farmers and citizens of Putnam county, none stands higher in the esteem of his fellow citizens than Sherman A. Wilkins. He has long been actively engaged in farming in Putnam- county and the years of his residence have but served to strengthen the feeling of admiration on the part of his fellow men. He has led an honorable life in every par- ticular and set a worthy example for the young and rising generation. He is entitled to representation in any work which purports to set forth the achievements of the citizens of Putnam county. He has applied himself very closely to the work mapped out in his life's- career and has waited for the future to bring its reward, and today he is one of the substantial men of Putnam county. Sherman A. Wilkins, one of the well-known farmers of Putnam county, was born in Blanchard township, Plancock county, Ohio, August 21, 1868,. the son of Jacob and Harriett (Stover) Wilkins. Jacob Wilkins was born in Licking county, Ohio, April 30, 1837, the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Kritsinger) Wilkins, the fomier a native of Virginia and a pioneer of Licking and Putnam counties. Jacob Wilkins came from Licking county when four years old, with his- parents, who settled in Blanchard township, Putnam county. His father lived in different places in Putnam and Hancock counties and spent the year 1846 in Iowa, returning at the end of that year to Putnam county. Jacob Wilkins spent his youth in Riley and Blanchard townships in Putnam county and here he received his early education. At the age of twenty-nine, he was married to Harriett Stover, in April, 1866. Mrs. Wilkins was the daughter of Daniel and Catherine (Claybaugh) Stover, who were pioneers of Putaam county. Daniel Stover entered land from the government during President « PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 4-71. Jackson's administration, in 1827. After Mr. Wilkins's marriage, he lived for eight years in Blanchard township in Hancock county and then moved to Riley -township, Putnam county, where he received fifty acres of land from the Stover estate. He later purchased ninety acres. The original farm had contained only two acres that were cleared. This farm of fifty acres had a rude log cabin and no barn. Jacob Wilkins proceeded to clear the land. This work he almost accomplished dtiring his lifetime. He followed general, farming and was very successful. He was a Democrat. He died on Marck 8, 1905, at the age of sixty-eight. His wife died the following November,, 1906. She was a member of the Church of God and was a loving mother and a devoted wife. To this union ten children were born, Orpha, deceased,, who was the wife of David Fulton; Sherman, the subject of this sketch; Elizabeth, deceased, who was the wife of Wesley Neighbarger; Curtis, de- ceased; William, who died in infancy; Gertrude, who died at the age of four- teen; Delia, the wife of Herbert Harris; Callie, the wife of William Hart- man; Grover, who married Lou Kissinger; Charles, who is supposed to have- been drowned in California in 1914. Sherman A. Wilkins was four years old when his parents moved to Riley township, Putnam county, and here he spent his childhood, attending the old district school No. i. After finishing the common schools, he took a special normal course in Leipsic, and then taught school for two terms. Mr. Wilkins was a successful teacher, but was inclined to farming and, after teaching two years, turned his attention to this vocation. When Mr. Wilkins was thirty-seven years old, he was married to. Lydia McDowell, who was born on August 20, 1867, in Licking county and who is the daughter of Philitus and Nancy (Harris) McDowell, who were among the early pioneers of Putnam county. Philitus McDowell was born, in Licking county in 1832. After his marriage, Mr. Wilkins continued to farm the old home place.. He has always done general farming and has been one of the most success- ful men in his community. Mrs. Wilkins belongs to the Methodist Protestant church. He is a Democrat and has served his township efficiently as trustee. He is a wide- awake, mtelligent and progressive farmer, one of Riley township's most valued citizens. He is well and favorably known throughout Riley township and Putnam county, and his reputation for honesty and square-dealing has. never been questioned. Sherman A. Wilkins is not only a highly respected citizen of his community, but he is a man of genial disposition and a man who IS much admired for his pleasing personality. He is known as a man. who "does things." 432 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. JUDGE JOSEPH MERSMAN. The present judge of the probate court of Putnam county, Ohio, is Jo- seph Mersman, who has been filHng this responsible position since 1909. A native of this county, he has spent practically his whole life here, and since he was eighteen years of age, he has always lived in Ottawa, with the excep- tion of two years. He started when a young man as a clerk in a general store in Ottawa, and after following this for several years, he engaged in ^he creamery business and was the manager of the Riverside Crearnery, in Ottawa, until his election as probate judge of the county. In the adminis- tration of the duties of this office he has exercised great care and sound ifudgment and his decisions have always been characterized by fairness and «mpartiality. Judge Joseph Mersman, the son of Bernard and Julianna (Bockhold) Mersman, was born at Glandorf, in this county, in 1858. His father was born in Hauenhorst, Rheinpfalz, Germany, in 18 18, and came to America "vhen he was about twenty-four years of age. The father of Bernard Mers- man died in Germany, and a year or so after Bernard came to this country, his mother also came here and made her home with one of her daughters, Mrs. Meyers, in Putnam county, until her death, January 2, 1877, at the ad- ■\^anced age of ninety-six. Bernard Mersman first located at Cincinnati, Ohio, upon coming to this country, but shortly afterward moved to Glandorf, Putnam county, where he lived the remainder of his life. He was a merchant and one of the founders of fhe Glandorf Woolen Mills, a factory which was of much im- portance in the early history of Glandorf. In addition to his store and fac- tory, he also owned a farm near Glandorf, making this place his home until his death, in 1866, at the age of forty-eight. Julianna Bockhold, the wife of Bernard Mersman, was born in Germany, a daughter of John and Kath- erine Bockhold. She came to America with a relative and went to Cincin- nati, later locating in Glandorf, where she met and married Bernard Mers- man. To this union the following children were born, four of whom are living, the others dying in infancy, except Bernard and George. Bernard, de- ceased, George Henry, deceased, Joseph, Frank J. and Katherine, the wife of Samuel Hunchbarger, Mrs. Theasie Goede. The mother of these chil- dren died on March 23, 1909. Joseph Mersman spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, near Glandorf, his father dying when he was but eight years of age. He worked -on the home farm and attended the schools of his township until he was ji'Im;]-; .losKi'ii .mious.max. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 43-3 seventeen years of age, and then went to Kendallville, Indiana, where he worked for one year, after which time he returned to Putnam county, and located in Ottawa, where he has since Hved, with the exception of two years. Upon locating in Ottawa he began clerking in a general store and for thir- teen years was employed as a salesman. He then engaged in the creamery business and conducted the Riverside Creamery, until he became probate judge. For several years he has been active in the councils of the Demo- cratic party, and in 1908 his party nominated and subsequently elected him as judge of the probate court, and so satisfactory was his service during his first term that he was renominated and again elected in the fall of 1912, for another term of four years. Judge Mersman was married in 1880, to Anna M. Unterbrink. She was born in Greensburg township, this county, and, is a daughter of Ferdi- nand and Gertrude Unterbrink. Her parents were natives of Germany, and upon coming to this country located in Greensburg township. Mr. Unter- brink was a well-known farmer, a justice of the peace and a county com- missioner for two terms. He was prominpntly known throughout the county. Mrs. Mersman is a woman of unusual attainments, and early in life began to teach in the public schools of this county, and for several years taught in Greensburg, Pleasant, Union and Ottawa townships. Judge Mersman and his wife are members of the Catholic church, and deeply interested in its welfare: BARNEY FELTMAN. In recent years much attention is being paid by the farmers of Putnam county to the breeding of live stock, cattle in particular receiving careful attention in this direction, it having been satisfactorily proved by many farmers that in judicious feeding lies the greatest source of profit. Not only more, but a higher grade of cattle are being raised in this county, many farmers being particularly careful to have none but the best strains on their farms. Among the farmers of Union township who lately have been devoting much care to the breeding of choice cattle, few are better known in this direction than is Barney Feltman. Mr. Feltman is of the third generation of his family in this county. Barney Feltman was born on a farm in Pleasant township, Putnam county, Ohio, August 14, 1869, the son of Barney and Louisa (Niese) Felt- 28 434 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. man, the former of whom was born in the town of Glandorf, and the latter of whom was bom on a farm in Ottawa township, both in Putnam county. Barney Feltman, the elder, father of the immediate subject of this sketch, was the son of Henry and Angeline (Sager) Feltman, natives of Hanover, Germany, who came to America, proceeding to Putnam county,. Ohio, where they located, in the Glandorf settlement at an early day in that interesting German colony's history. The farm which Henry Feltman wrested from the forest wilderness became one of the most valuable tracts, in that part of the county, the site of the present town of Glandorf covering a large portion of it. Here Heniy Feltman lived until the death of his wife, after which time he made his home with his son, Barney, in Pleasant town- ship, where he spent the rest of his life. He was a man highly honored throughout that section in his day and generation and he and his good wife were among the most influential members of the German colony, which did so much for the early development of that part of Putnam county. Henry and Angeline (Sager) Feltman were the parents of six children, Catherine,. Elizabeth, Agnes, Mary, William and Barney, the latter of whom was reared on his father's farm at Glandorf, receiving such education as the schools- of that time and place afforded and remaining on his father's farm until his marriage to Louisa Niese, at which time he moved to a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Pleasant township, which his father had givem him. This he cleared and improved and later added to it fifty-three acres, which he brought to an equal state of cultivation, making it one of the best farms in that township. Barney Niese, father of Mrs. Feltman, was a well- known farmer of the Glandorf neighborhood and lived there until the death of his wife, who was a Laefker, a member of one of the early families of that section, whereupon he moved to the home of his son, Barney Niese, in Palmer township, where he spent the rest of his life. He was left with six children, Louisa, Theresa, Agnes, Anna, Barney and Helena. To Barney and Louisa (Niese) Feltman were born seven children, as follow: Mary, who married Frank Recker and lives in Ottawa township,, this county; Barney, the subject of this sketch; Joseph, who married Helena Niermann and lives in Pleasant township, this county; Edward, who mar- ried Bernardina Uphaus and lives in the city of Ottawa, this county ; August, who married Helena Kleman and Hves in Ottawa township, this county ,- Harry, who married Florence Schmueller and lives in Pleasant township, this county, and Arnold, who married Josephine Kleman and also lives in Pleasant township. Barney Feltman was reared on his father's farm in Pleasant township, receiving his education in the public schools of that township, and remained PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. a-,c there until his marriage in 1890, after which he Hved for a time on a rented farm nearby and then bought a farm of forty-four acres in the same town- ship, which he later sold and bought eighty acres in sections 7 and 18, in Union township, later buying twenty-five acres in the corporation bounds of the town of Kalida. He has improved his farm in fine shape, the build- mgs being of an attractive and substantial character and the land well tilled and brought up to a high state of cultivation. Barney Feltman was united in marriage on August 12, 1890, to Anna Ricker, daughter of Henry and Louisa (Hermiller) Ricker, prominent resident of Union township, this county, the former of whom was the son of Herman and Mary (Kottenbrock) Ricker, who came from Germany and settled in the Glandorf neighborhood in this county, where they reared a family of nine children, Henry, John, Mary, Catherine, Elizabeth, Anna, Herman, Frank and Wilhelmina. Louisa Hermiller was the daughter of Bernard and Bernardina Hermiller, both of whom were natives of Germany who came to America and for a time lived in the state of Massachusetts! later commg to this county and locating in Ottawa township, where they spent the remainder of their lives. They were parents of seven children Louisa, Rosa, William, Mary, Henry, Frank and Philomena. _ For a time after their marriage Henry Ricker and wife lived on a farm m Pleasant township, this county, later they moved to a farm in Ottawa township, and, finally, located in Union township. To them were born mne children, Mary, Anna, Elizabeth, Clara, Lucy, Herman, Emma Igna- tius and Caroline. Mary (now deceased) married Henry Ellerbrock of Ft. Jennings, this county; Elizabeth married Joseph Ellerbrock and lives m Jackson township; Clara married Henry Ricker and lives in Jennings township; Lucy mar^ried Benjamin Barlager and lives in Kalida. The others are still unmarried. To Barney and Anna (Ricker) Feltman have been born four children as follow: Frank B., born on May 31, 1891 ; Emma L., born on February 18, 1905 died in infancy; Mary, born on September 6, 1907, and Genevieve born on April 6, 1909. Frank has completed his course at Cincinnati in auto- mobile engineering. Mr and Mrs. Feltman are members of St. Michael's Catholic church at Kahda and their children have been brought up in the faith, all bein^ devoted to the church's interest and active in the various good works of the parish. Mr. Feltman is a Democrat and takes deep interest in matters relating to local government, being regarded as one of the leaders of the party in that part of the county. He has served his township in the capacity 436 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of assessor and is one of the directors of the Mutual Telephone Company at Kalida. Mr. Feltman is a good farmer and an excellent judge of cattle, taking much pride in his fine herd of full-blooded Shorthorns, to which he gives much attention and which he has found a very gratifying source of profit. He is pleasant in his dealings with his neighbors, courteous to all and is one of the popular men in his section of the county. GIDEON C. STEINER. It is a well-attested fact that the greatness of a community of state lies not in the machinery of government nor even in its institutions as much as in the sterling qualities of its individual citizens. In his capacity for high and unselfish efforts and his devotion to the public welfare, Gideon C. Steiner has conferred honor and dignity upon his community and as an elemental part of history, it is fitting that there should be recorded a resume of his career with the object in view of noting his connection with the advancement of one of the most flourishing and progressive sections of the great common- wealth of Ohio, as well as his official relation with the administration of educational affairs of the township honored by his residence. Gideon C. Steiner was born in Riley township, Putnam county, October 23, 1864, the son of Christian and Magdalene (Lugibihl) Steiner, whose family history in found in the sketch of David C. Steiner, a brother of Gideon C. Gideon C. Steiner was a regular attendant at the old Elm Center school, and he grew to manhood on the old home place. After finishing the common schools, he took a normal course at the Ohio Northwestern University, at Ada. Later, he did special work at Leipsic, and also special normal work at the Tri-State Normal at Angola, Indiana. Upon finishing his education, he taught school in Putnam and adjointing counties for eight years. Gideon C. Steiner was considered a successful teacher and many of his friends believe he would have risen high in the ranks of this profession had he continued a teacher. At the age of twenty-four, on November i, 1888, Mr. Steiner was married to Mary A. Baumgartner, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, the daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Althause) Baumgartner, the former a native of Adams county, Indiana, having been born near Berne, and the latter of Wayne county, Ohio. Daniel Baumgartner was the son of Chris- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 437 tian Baumgartner and wife, who were natives of Switzerland, and who settled in Adams county, Indiana, in an early day. In addition to being a farmer. Christian Baumgartner was a minister of the Mennonite church. He was the fourth child of his parents and grew up in Adams county, In- diana. He was born on December 3, 1844. After his marriage, he moved to Wayne county, Ohio, and here lived for a short time. He then removed to Blufiton, Allen county, Ohio, and after several years, returned to Adams county, Indiana, finally removing to Bluffton, which was his last residence. He was originally a farmer, and in addition to this, he learned the shoe- maker's trade, which business he followed later in life, conducting a retail shoe business in Bluffton. Daniel and Elizabeth Baumgartner had five children, Mary, the wife of Mr. Steiner; Joel, of Salem, Oregon; Albert, of Bluffton, Ohio; Elmer W., who died at Leipsic, Ohio, in 191 1, and Lucy, who died in infancy. Elizabeth Althause, Daniel Baumgartner's wife, was the daughter of David and Mary (Kirchhoffer) Althause, who were natives of Switzerland, and who came to America at an early date. Elizabeth Althause was born on March 16, 1839, and died in November, 1886. After his marriage, Gideon C. Steiner taught school for three years. Later he began farming for himself when he rented a farm of eighty acres from his father, three and one-half miles northeast of Pandora. A few years later he purchased this farm. After teaching school for three years, he devoted all of his time to farming. He has always done general farm- ing and has been very successful in this vocation. When he removed to his present farm, it had few improvements, there being only a one-roomed log cabin and a log stable. Mr. Steiner has drained the land and has suc- ceeded in clearing all but five acres. In addition, he has built a good eight- room, modern house and a large, commodious barn with other outbuildincrs in keeping with the surroundings. Today he has one of the finest farms in Riley township. Gideon C. Steiner and wife have been the parents of eleven children, Orville Edison, born on October 20, 1889, who is a student at Fort Wayne,' Indiana; Edna E., bom on January i, 1891, and died on August 4, 1913; Myron, born on November 8, 1892, and died on February 28, 1901 ; Lillian,' born on July 12, 1894, and died on October 8, of the same year; Ol'ga, born on August 14, 1895; Zella, born on September 8, 1897; Arm'in, born on January 28, 1899; Clayton, born on November 16, 1900; Lysle, born on October 4, 1902, and died on February 10, 1904; Barbara Grace, born on November 24, 1903, and died on Decerhber 27, 1903, and Mary Arvilla, born on August i, 1906. All of these children have attended, or are at- 43^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. tending, the Pandora high school, except the youngest, who attends the local schools. Mr. Steiner is a Democrat. He has been active in the educational affairs of his township and was a school director for six years. He was also a member of the township school board for seven years. He and his son are members of the Grace Mennonite church, while Mrs. Steiner and the remainder of the family are^members of the Missionary church. Gideon C. Steiner is one of Riley township's most substantial farmers. He is well-to-do and is well and favorably known, a man of more than ordinary attainments and, as a citizen, he has done very much for the welfare of the township in which he lives. EDWARD HILTY. A man's reputation is the property of the world, for the laws of nature have forbidden isolation. Every human being either submits to the con- trolling influence of others or wields an influence which touches, controls, guides or misdirects them. If he be honest and successful in his chosen field of endeavor, investigation will brighten his fame and point the way along with others who follow with like success. The reputation of Edward Hilty, one of the leading farmers and citizens of Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, having been unimpeachable from the beginning of his career, according to those who know him best, a critical study of his career would be a benefit to the reader of this volume. His life has been not only one of honor, but of usefulness also. Edward Hilty was born in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, July 15, 1878, the son of Benjamin B. and Susanna (Steiner) Hilty, whose family history may be found in the sketch of Benjamin B. Hilty and of Isaac Hilty, an uncle. His paternal family history is found in the "sketch of Peter P. Steiner. Edward Hilty was born on the old Hilty homestead, one and one-half miles east of Pandora. Here he spent his early childhood and attended the dd Steiner district school. At the age of nine years, his mother died, and for about three and one-half years his father kept the children together, after which they were placed with neighboring families. A year before the remainder of the children were placed in new homes, Edward Hilty, who was not yet twelve years old, was sent to live with his grandfather, Peter PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 439 Hilty, and his son Samuel. During his residence, here, his grandfather died, but he continued to Hve with his uncle. When about fifteen years old, his father gathered the children together again and they went to live on the old Jiome place. They remained here, with the exception of a few months after the old house burned, until Edward Hilty was twenty-six years old. Edward Hilty was married on June 24, 1902, at the age of twenty-three, to Martha Sommer, who was born on the old Sommer homestead, one mile north of Pandora, March 15, 1881. She is the daughter of Jacob and Marian (Amstutz) Sommer, the former of whom was a native of Switzer- land, born on January 20, 185 1, and who came to America at the age of eighteen, settling in Riley township, Putnam county. Here he married Marian Amstutz, who is the daughter of Abraham Amstutz and wife. They had three children, Daniel, Elias and Martha, the wife of Mr. Hilty. Elias esteem bestowed upon him by his neighbors and fellow citizens. REV FRANCIS NIGSCH. A large proportion of the early settlers of Putnam county, Ohio, were Catholics, and from the beginning of the history of the county the Catholic citizen has been a prominent factor in the spiritual life of the people. The well-educated and thoroughly-trained priesthood has had charge of the spiritual needs of the people and has been instrumental in providing beauti- ful buildings of worship as well as substantial school buildings and residences for the pastors. The Rev. Francis A. Nigsch has had charge of St. Peter and Paul's church at Ottawa since 1903, and during the past twelve years has had the satisfaction of seeing his church increase in influence in this community. He is a man of broad education and catholic sympathies, and is not only well beloved by his own congregation, but highly esteemed by all in the community where he has labored so faithfully and well. Rev. Francis Nigsch, the son of Francis A. and Regina (Erhart) Nigsch, was born at Blons, in Vorarlberg, in the northwestern part of Tyrol, near Switzerland, May 24, 1846. Both of his parents are deceased. Of the five children born tO' these parents, a sister lives in Austria and one brother is deceased, having been killed by a falling tree. The other three children -were sons, and came to America, where two of them entered the priesthood. Of these three brothers, Rev. Christian Nig'sch came to the United States when a young man of twenty years, after having been well educated in his native land, and having taught in the public schools of Tyrol. He came '.to this country in 1868, and entered the seminary at Carthagena, Mercer i;i:\-. KUAXcis xicscii. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ^gl county, Ohio, and was ordained to the priesthood in 1878 by Archbishop Purcell, in Cincinnati. His first appointment was in Jay county, Indiana, and his next charge was at the Church of St. John, in Mercer county, Ohio.' He was next assigned to the Cathohc church at Winamac, Puhska county, Indiana, and while pastor there he built a beautiful church. He was trans- ferred to Minster, Auglaize county, Ohio, in 1885, where, after a ministra- tion of five years, he died on November 25, 1890. Frederick Nigsch, another brother, came to America and died in 1873 while preparing himself for the priesthood. Rev. Francis Nigsch came to the United States in 1866, when he was twenty years of age, and entered the theological seminary at Carthagena, Ohio. He had already received his classical education in his native land and spent five years more at Carthagena, preparing himself for the priesthood. He was ordained by Archbishop Purcell, of Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1872, and was given a charge in Mercer county, Ohio, which was retained by him for about eighteen months. He was then transferred to the Church of St. Mary, m Auglaize county, Ohio, where he was stationed for seven months. The following three months were spent at Minster, Ohio, in the same county where he acted as assistant pastor. The next year he was given a charge in the state of Missouri, and from 1878 to 1881 had charge of the congrega- tion at Wapakoneta, Ohio. He was appointed to the pastorate at Glandorf Putnam county, Ohio, in 1881, where he remained until 1889. Father Nigsch is a progressive and indefatigable man in his labors, and the beneficial re- sults of the church at Glandorf eloquently testify to his ability. He liquidated a church debt of fourteen thousand dollars at Glandorf, and in addition raised a large sum for furnishing the church, an amount probably three times the debt which he paid, when coming to Glandorf. Father Nigsch traveled extensively in Europe in 1889, and while on the continent he visited Rome, and on June 23 of that year was received by Pope Leo XIII. Upon returning to this country, he again assumed charge of the church at Glandorf, and continued the active discharge of his duties at that place until the end of January, 1897. For the next nine months he was stationed at St. John, Mercer county, Ohio, and in October 1897 he went to Fort Wayne, Indiana, and organized the Church of the Precious Blood, erecting a school building as well as a church. He started the school at Fort Wayne with eight grades and an initial enrollment of one hundred and fifty pupils. The church building was erected in 1898. Before he left Fort Wayne, in January, 1903, he had erected a fine residence for the pastor and also a residence for the Sisters. 31 482 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Upon leaving Fort Wayne, Father Nigsch returned to Putnam county, Ohio, and took charge of St. Peter and Paul's church at Ottawa, where he has since been stationed. His long residence in Glandorf had already made him thoroughly well acquainted throughout the county, and it was like re- turning to an old home to be transferred to Ottawa. His ministry here has been unusually pleasant and free from any embarrassing difficulties. No spectacular strides have been made, but nearly every year has seen some sub- stantial improvement in one way or another. The church and the priest's residence have been rendered more comfortable and much improved in ap- pearance. The large indebtedness, necessarily incurred for the many and ex- pensive buildings and improvements of an earlier date, have been wiped out and funds accumulated for future necessities. A male choir was added in 1905, and a children's choir was later installed. The male choir was largely increased in 19 13 by the training and instructing of a large number of young men in music. Father Nigsch loves truth much better than polite evasion. He is a man of strong executive and business ability, and withal a man with a warm heart, a kindly humor and an uprightness of character fully in keep- ing with his holy office. He is esteemed by not only those of his own church, but by the general public at large. As a good citizen, he takes an intelligent interest in the general life of his community and never shirks any responsi- bility when he feels that he can render service to his fellow citizens. JOHN B. FISHER. For the past score of years John B. Fisher has been engaged in the mercantile business at Townwood, Putnam county, Ohio. Before locating in Townwood, Mr. Fisher was engaged in business in various other places. By careful methods he has built up a flourishing trade at Townwood, and in addition to his business interests, he is also serving as postmaster, a posi- tion which he has held for several years. John B. Fisher, the son of Andrew J. and Nancy M. (Baker) Fisher, was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, October 30, 1866. His father was born in the same county, June 30, 1839, the son of John and Eliza Fisher, natives of Ohio. Andrew J. Fisher was reared on his father's farm in Tuscarawas county, and when a young man began to work on the railroad through his county, and continued in this work until 1869, when he moved to Allen PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ^82 ■county, Indiana, where he purchased a farm, and continued to reside in In- diana until 1873, and then moved to Belmore, Putnam county, Ohio, where he took charge of a store. He managed this store until 1875, and then en- gaged in business for himself with Nimrod Speaker. This firm continued together for two years and then the business was sold to George Speaker. Following his connection with the mercantile business at Belmore, Andrew J. Fisher became yard boss for the stave factory at Belmore, which position he retained until the spring of 1893. He then went to Latty, Paulding county, Ohio, where he engaged in the butcher business until 1905, when he retired from active work and moved to Van Wert, Ohio, where he is now living. Andrew J. Fisher was married, about 1861, to Nancy M. Baker, of Dennison, Ohio, and to this union four children were born: Laura, who PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 503 Steiner. John Steiner was born in the canton of Berne, Switzerland, January 23, 1792, and died on March 6, 1865, two miles west of Bluffton, in Richland township, Allen county. John Steiner was the son of Christian Steiner, who was the father of three children and who came to America in 1813, at the age of twenty-one, after a voyage lasting fifty days. He settled in Wayne county, near Orrville, where he remained for several years, and then moved to Richland township. Here he entered land from the govern- ment, and here he built a two-roomed log cabin with a center hall, to which cabin he later added one room, a frame structure, which served for his resi- dence for several years, or until his son, John Steiner, built a story and a half brick house and frame structure. It was in this house that Ulrich S. Steiner was born. John Steiner's first farm comprised one hundred and twenty acres, but to this he later added three hundred and twenty acres. In the beginning, this farm was in a virgin state and heavily timbered, with a dense growth of large white oak trees. John Steiner cleared about three- fourths of this farm, or about ninety acres, during his life time. In addition to other improvements he made on the old homestead, he built an immense barn, ninety by forty feet, with an addition of twenty by forty feet. This barn was constructed in 1857 and is in a most excellent state of preservation today. It is interesting to note that to duplicate this structure by contract today would ijrobably cost three thousand dollars. In those days when they obtained all of the timber on the grounds, it cost only seven hundred and ninety-two dollars. John Steiner was first married to Mary Stauffer, of Wayne county, and by her he had eight children, one of whom, Ulrich, died in infancy. The seven who survived were: Christian, John, David, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Samuel. By his second marriage, John Steiner was the father of six children, Elizabeth, Anna, Barbara, Ulrich S., Magdalene, deceased, and Daniel. A very peculiar incident is related in connection with the life of the eldest son. Soon after his birth the child was bitten by a snake, while in bed with its parents, from the effects of which bite he died. It was on this old homstead that Ulrich S. Steiner was born and spent his childhood days. At the age of eight years he had the misfortune to lose both parents, who died three days apart. After their death, Ulrich S. was taken to be reared by John S. Thur, who lived near Bluffton. Here he remamed until twenty-five years of age, at which time he was married. He had been teaching school for eight years prior to this time and had gained a splendid reputation as a teacher. 504 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Steiner was married on October 13, 1881, to Susan Schumacher, who was born on December 21, 1861, in Richland township, Allen county. She is the daughter of Reverend Peter and Elizabeth (Suter) Schumacher. A complete history of this family is to be found in the sketch of Christian Schumacher, his brother. After his marriage, Mr. Steiner farmed and taught school for two years, later devoting all of his efforts to farming. He located on a farm three and one-half miles northeast of Pandora, comprising eighty acres, which has been his residence since that time, with the exception of three years spent in Pandora in the study of the Word of God, which he still has in view. Mr. Steiner has been quite successful as a farmer and attributes this success mainly to the raising and selling of hogs. To Mr and Mrs. Ulrich Steiner seven children have been born, Estella, the wife of A. J. Abigglen, who lives north of Pandora ; John Franklin, who married Madeline Hubscher and both are missionaries in south China, on the island of Hainan; Jesse Edwin, who married Priscilla Diller, and has two children, Esther Orvilla and Mabel Lavon; James Calvin, who is a student in Otterbein University; Martha Elizabeth, Oliver Ezra and Paul David, all of whom are at home. Mr. Steiner is a Democrat but, though he is identified with this party, he is an independent voter and supports measures and men rather than party emblems. He is now engaged to a considerable extent in evangelistic work. Mr. Steiner is a member of the Missionary church of Pandora, of which his wife likewise is a member. He is one of the organizers of the local church and took charge of their first meeting. He is a man of clean. Christian character and of high ideals. CHARLES R. BLAUVELT. Among the men of sterling worth and strength of character who have made an impression upon the life of the locality in which they live, none has achieved a larger measure of popular respect and esteem than Charles R. Blauvelt, the cashier of the Farmers State and Savings Bank, of Continental, Ohio. Mr. Blauvelt is well known throughout this section of Putnam county ; in fact, he was born in Putnam county and has spent his whole life, or prac- tically all of it, in this section. His life-long residence in one locality gives the people an opportunity to know every phase of his character, and that he CHAKLES l;. l!]>AI'VKI/r. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 505 has been true to life in its every phase is manifest from the confidence and regard in which he is held by those who know him. In a business way, he is a man of unusual attainments and has achieved a splendid success in busi- ness, and especially in banking. Mr. Blauvelt combines many of the traits so necessary to success in this day and generation. Charles R. Blauvelt was born on May 25, 1878, at Belmore, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Isaac E. and Hannah (Speaker) Blauvelt. Isaac E. Blauvelt was born in Franklin county, Ohio, in 1842, and was the ■son of Abraham, Jr., and Louisa (Baldwin) Blauvelt. The family originally came from Holland. Abraham Blauvelt, Sr., came to New York during the American Revolution and founded the town of Blauveltville. He was the father of Abraham, Jr., who was the father of Isaac E. Isaac E. Blauvelt grew up in Franklin county, Ohio, and there married Hannah Speaker, a sister of Nimrod Speaker, whose sketch gives the family history. Mr. and Mrs. Isaac E. Blauvelt moved to Putnam county in 1857 and located on a farm one mile south of Belmore. There he farmed until recent years, when he moved to Belmore, where he now resides. He has been a lifelong farmer and has served as township trustee, on the board of education and has filled other local offices of trust and responsibility. Charles R. Blauvelt grew up at Belmore and attended Muskingum Col- lege, after having completed a course in the public schools of Ohio. He left college in 1902 and then taught school at Belmore for five years. At the end -of this period he organized the bank at Belmore. It is a state bank and Mr Blauvelt served as cashier of this bank for seven years. Mr. Blauvelt moved to Continental in January, 1914, having sold out his mterest m the bank at Belmore and having purchased an interest in the Farmers State and Savings Bank at Continental, of which he is now cashier Mr. Blauvelt was mayor of Belmore for seven years and also served on the school board for three years. In 1901, Charles R. Blauveh was married to Loretta C. Jones, who was born at Greentown, Indiana, and who is the daughter of J. W and Elizabeth A. (Covalt) Jones, who still live at Greentown. Mrs. Blauvelt grew up at Greentown, where she graduated from the high school and from the normal academy. Her father was a miller, who moved to Belmore, where he en gaged m the milling business for some time, but subsequently removed to Greentown where he now resides. Mr. and Mrs. Blauvelt have five chil- dren, Ralph E., Charles Frederick, Vaugh C, Elizabeth A. and Etta Cathryn Mr H M ""S * '' r '"''"^'' °^ '^' Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. and Mrs. Blauvelt are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are bnngmg up their family in this faith. 5o6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Although Charles R. Blauvelt is a comparatively young man, he has demonstrated, within a very few years, that he is possessed of that initiative and determination which is a certain guarantee of success in life. Mr. Blau- velt has not only been able to achieve a rather exceptional measure of suc- cess, but at the same time he has managed to retain the confidence and re- spect of his fellows, as is evident by the responsible positions of trust with which he has been charged. Few men in this section of Putnam county are better known than he, and few men are more deserving the respect of his fellows. Mr. and Mrs. Blauvelt are popular, socially, in Continental and admired by a large number of people. JONATHAN J. DARLING. Jonathan J. Darling has attained pronounced prestige by reason of natural and acquired ability, and also because of his permanent and official position and high standing in the domain of private citizenship. He takes a - deep and abiding interest in everything that pertains to the material advance- ment of the town and township where he lives, and every enterprise intended to promote the advancement of Putnam county is sure to receive his hearty support. Jonathan J. Darling is rated as one of the progressive citizens of the community in which he lives, and the high respect in which he is held by all classes of people is a deserving compliment to an intelligent, broad- minded and most worthy man. He is a successful farmer and has made farming pay him handsome returns. Jonathan J. Darling was born in Riley township, Putnam county, on the old Darling homstead, on June lo, 1850, the son of Joseph and Sophia (Groff) Darling. His father was a native of Richland county, Ohio, and was born on July 9, 1818. He was the son of Jonathan P. and Catherine (Butler) Darling, natives of Virginia. Jonathan P. Darling was a soldier in the War of 181 2 and soon after the close of that struggle, located in Rich- land, county, Ohio. He lived here as a farmer until his death at the age of seventy-one. Jonathan P Darling was a devout Lutheran. He and his wife were the parents of nine children, Robert, Joseph, Rebecca, Squire,. Abigail, Vincent, Sophia, Aditha and John P. Vincent, who died after his marriage, leaving a wife and seven children. Aditha married Matthew Alexander and became the mother of a family. Joseph Darling, the father of Jonathan J., settled in Hancock county in 1843, and a little later in Riley PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ^07" township, Putnam county. He married Sophia Groff in 1840. She was- the daughter of Joseph Groff, a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. He was the father of eleven children, Elias, Polatus, Eli, Julia A., Sophia,, David, Emeline, Christina, Fiatta, Caroline and James. Seven children, were born to Joseph Darling and wife, Elias, who died of smallpox in Libby prison; Abigail, who married Volney O. Vanstronder, who died on January 25, 1885, leaving three children; Catherine E., who died young; Sophia A.,, who died in childhood; Jonathan, the subject of this sketch; Joseph and Sarah, both of whom died young. Mrs. Joseph Darling died on March 28, 1880. She was a member of the Methodist Protestant church. Joseph Dar- Hng^ was a man of considerable local influence. He served his township as- township appraiser and as township trustee, was a pillar in his church and an experienced and successful farmer and a man respected for his unswerv- ing morality. Jonathan J. Darling spent his childhood and youth on the old home place. He attended the district school, and, after completing the course here, took one term at the Ottawa Normal. Two terms he spent at Ohio- Northern University, at Ada, where he continued his academic studies. After finishing his education, he returned home and taught one term in the home- district. I-Je was a successful teacher, but soon took up farming for himself on his father's farm. At the age of twenty-eight, on February 28, 1878, Jonathan J. Darling- was married to May Youngkin, who was born at Gilboa, December 9, 1856,. and who is the daughter of Jerome W. and Mary Ann (Hall) Youngkin.. Mrs. Youngkin was the daughter of Samuel and Martha (Wamsley) Hall.. Samuel Hall was born on April 9, 1803, and died on March 25, 1896. His- wife was born on September 30, 1805, and died in September, 1895. Botk Jerome W. and Mary Ann (Hall) Youngkin were natives of Putnam county. The Halls were pioneers in Putnam county. After his marriage, Mr. Darling continued farming for about fifteeix years, or until 1893, when he moved to Gilboa and entered the hardware- business, in which he continued for nine years. He then returned to the- farm, which has been his residence since that date. Mr. Darling has always, engaged in general farming and has been quite successful. At his father's- death he inherited eighty acres of the old homestead and has since added forty acres, making in all one hundred and twenty acres which he now owns.. To Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan J. Darling, five children have been born, Clmnie, Ettie, Jessie, Leo and Lena. Clinnie, who was born on February 27I 1879, is the widow of William Ross. One child. Vera, who resides at home^ -508 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. was born to them; Ettie, who was born on December 20, 1881, is the wife of Edward L. Peckinpaugh, and has three children, Edward, Vilroe and ■Gerald. They reside one mile south of Leipsic; Jessie, who was born on January 31, 1884, is the wife of Harry C. Laub, and has two children, Harold and Raymond. They reside near Milan, Michigan; Leo, who was born on July 30, 1890, died on February 12, 1893; Lena, who was born on October 4, 1893, is a student at Defiance College. Jonathan J. Darling is one of Riley township's most successful farmers and is well and favorably known. He is a Democrat and served his fellow citizens as treasurer of Blanchard township for four years and made a creditable record. Mr. Darling attends the Methodist Episcopal church at ■Gilboa. Mrs. Darling and her daughters are members of this church. HENRY SHERMAN KETNER. An enumeration of those men of the present generation who have won honor and recognition for themselves and at the same time have honored the locality to which they belong, would be incomplete were there were failure to make specific mention of Henry Sherman Ketner. The qualities which have made him one of the prominent farmers of Riley township, Put- nam county, Ohio, have also won for him the esteem of his fellow citizens: His career is one of well-directed energy, strong determination and honor- able methods. Mr. Ketner was born on March 4, 1865, in Pleasant township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is a son of Andrew and Mary (Hall) Ketner, the former born in Fairfield county, Ohio, in 181 1, and died in Pleasant township, Put- nam county, Ohio. Andrew Ketner was married in Fairfield county, Ohio, to a Mrs. Pope, and came to Putnam county in an early day, probably soon after his marriage, settling in Blanchard township, in the southwest part of what is known as the Stover farm. Flere he entered forty acres of land from the government. He later rented a farm in the southeast part of Ottawa township, owned by a man by the name of Lutz. Later on, he pur- chased eighty acres in the northeast part of Pleasant township, and here he lived the remainder of his life. Before moving to Pleasant township, his first wife died, leaving four children, Silas, Sarah, Matilda and Sissy. After his wife's death, Andrew Ketner returned to Fairfield county, where he married Mary Hall, the mother of H. S. Ketner. ' Again he returned to PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 509' Putnam county, locating on his eighty-acre farm in pleasant township. The farm was covered with virgin timber at the time Mr. Ketner acquired it, and some of it was covered with water a part of the time, but in spite of these obstacles, Andrew Ketner set to work with a will, built a one-room cabin and a log stable, and with true pioneer spirit, proceeded to improve and. develop his farm. He later added a kitchen and bedroom to his cabin, and this house served as his residence for the remainder of his life. He suc- ceeded in clearing about sixty-three or sixty-five acres of the land, and it was here that Henry S. Ketner and his brothers and sisters were born, there being six of them, as follow: James, deceased, who married Alice Fuller, also deceased, had two children, Martha, deceased, and May; Priscilla, the wife of Denton Snyder; Elias, who married Etta Hill, has five children, Vic- tor, Zadell, Lena, Walter and Edith, who died at the age of five years;. Henry S., with whom this narrative deals; Sylvester, who married Alice- Guisinger; Charles, unmarried. It was on the old homestead, in Pleasant township, that Henry Ket- ner was reared, and it was here that he attended the old Butler district school. At the age of fourteen, he left school to help his father clear the land and operate the home farm, where he stayed with his father and mother until he had reached his majority, and the following fall was married. Henry Sherman Ketner was married on August ii, 1887, to Nora Bracy, who- was born in Blanchard township, October 8, 1869, and who is a daughter of John and Sarah (Pence) Jones-Bracy. The latter was born on August 5, 1827, and died in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, May 28, 1896. She first married G. W. Jones, and to this union were born eight children, and after his death she was married to John Bracy, and to this union were born two- children, Andrew Duff, who married Annie Harris, has four children, Minda, Howard, August and Harrietta; Nora, the wife of Mr. Ketner. The details- of the Bracy family history are to be found in the sketch of Isaac Bracy, found elsewhere in this volume. After his marriage, Mr. Ketner and wife located on the farm Mrs. Ketner received from her father's estate three and one-half miles northeast of Pandora, on which they have lived since that time. Mr. Ketner has always engaged in general farming and stock raising with a very com- mendable degree of success. He is a man of genial disposition and popular in the community where he lives. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Ketner, Abigail Armeda, born on November 2, 1889, is the wife of Daniel Miller, and they have four children, Verax Gertrude, Glen Harold, Leona Lucile and Wayne Millard; 3IO PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Sarah Gertrude, born on April 17, 1892, is the wife of Joseph Welty, and resides in Toledo, Ohio; Alvin Lee, born on January 14, 1895, is unmarried and living at home; Alta May, born on July 28, 1897, is unmarried and living at home; Kenneth Martin, born on February 24, 1906; Marguerite B., born on December 28, 1908, died on December 31, 1908. Mr. Ketner is a Republican, and is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Gilboa, and is an attendant of the Methodist Episcopal- church, as is also Mrs. Ketner. H. S. Ketner is one of the influential citizens ■of Riley township. He is well and favorably known as a progressive farmer and a man who is entitled to the esteem in which he is held by his neigh- bors and fellow citizens. BENJAMIN B. HILTY. The biographies of enterprising men, especially of good men, are in- structive as guides and incentives to others. The example they furnish of patient purpose and steadfast integrity, strongly illustrate what it is in the power of each to accomplish. Some men belong to no exclusive class in life. Apparently insurmountable obstacles have awakened their dormant faculties and served as a stimulant to carry them to ultimate renown. The instances of success in the face of adverse fate would seem to almost justify the con- clusion that self-reliance, with half a chance, can accomplish any reasonable ■object. Benjamin B. Hilty is a man who has lived to good purpose and achieved a splendid success. By a straightforward, commendable course, he has made his way to a respectable position in the world, winning the hearty admiration of the people of his community and earning the reputation of being an enterprising, progressive man of affairs, which the public has not been slow to recognize and appreciate. Benjamin B. Hilty was born in Richland township, Highland county, Ohio, March 8, 1850, on the old Hilty homestead. He is a son of Peter -and Elizabeth (Neuenschwander) Hilty. The family history of Mr. Hilty's parents is to be found in the sketch of Isaac Hilty, a brother of Benjamin B., found elsewhere in this volume. Benjamin B. Hilty spent his childhood and youth on the old homestead in Richland township. Highland county, Ohio. Here he attended the typical log-cabin schools, and here he remained until twenty-three years of age. The farm of one hundred and twenty acres was only about two-thirds cleared PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 5II when his father first acquired it, and Benjamin B. helped to clear and de- velop this farm with the exception of twenty acres. At the age of twenty-three years, Mr. Hilty was married to Susannah Steiner, who was born on May 12, 1855, in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, a daughter of Peter and Barbara (Schumacher) Steiner. Susannah Steiner is a sister of Peter P. Steiner, whose life history is found elsewhere in his volume. Her mother was a sister of Peter Schumacher, the history of which family is to be found in the' sketch of Christian Schumacher. To Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin B. Hilty eleven children have been born, Samuel B., born on April 12, 1874, is unmarried and resides at Pandora; Helena B., born on June 10, 1875, died on July 3, 1905, at the age of twenty- one; Albert B. and Clara, twins, born on November 30, 1876, Clara dying at the age of six months, while Albert married Elizabeth Welty, and they have four children; Edward, born on July 15, 1878, married Martha Som- mers, and, they have four children; Mary, born on December 10, 1879, is the wife of John A. Sommers, and they have one child, and live at Pan- dora; Sarah, born on May 20, 1 881, is the wife of Albert A. Bury, and they have four children, and reside at Pandora; Cyrus and Willis, twins, were born on June 24, 1883, the former died at the age of two months, while Willis died at the age of twenty-one years; Lewis B., who died at the age of a few months, and Ellen, born on May 22, 1887, is the wife of Philip Amstutz. The mother of these children died on October 3, 1888. She was a member of the Mennonite church, a kind and faithful wife and a devoted mother. After his marriage, Benjamin B. Hilty worked on his farm of seventy- five acres, on the old Ridge road, one and one-half miles east of Pandora. This farm had a two-room log house and a small frame barn on it at this time, and only about twenty acres of the land had been cleared. The land was covered with water for a considerable portion of the year. Mr. Hilty proceeded to clear up his land, and it was only by dint of untiring industry and perseverance that he succeeded. It was in this old log cabin that all his children were born, and it was here that Mrs. Hilty died. After her death, Mr. Hilty broke up housekeeping for a few years. The children were placed with neighboring relatives. Later, when they were grown older, Mr. Hilty gathered them together in a new frame building adjoining the old log house which he had built, and here he and his children again took up their resi- dence. One month after coming together again, this house was destroyed by fire. Soon afterward Mr. Hilty built a larger frame house, containing eight or nine rooms. In addition to this improvement he built a large and 512 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. commodious barn and other outbuildings, in keeping with the surroundings^ In addition to this he purchased a farm of seventy acres two miles north of Pandora, which he gave to his son. Along with his farming activities, Mr. Hilty has been operating a threshing outfit for the past seventeen years. About a year after his wife died, he engaged in buying and selling live stock a part of the time. He was associated in business with Samuel B. Krohn. At the end of two or three years he engaged in the manufacture of tile, which. business he continued for four years. Before engaging in the live stock business with Samuel B. Krohn, Mr. Hilty made a trip to Switzerland, where he visited the scenes of his father's- birthplace. It was after disposing of his tile business that he returned to his old business of threshing, in which line he is still engaged. Besides farm- ing and his work along other lihe9> Mr. Hilty has been an extensive breeder of thoroughbred Belgian horses and has made a notable success in this busi- ness. Out of all his enterprises, Mr. Hilty has made considerable money and has a substantial competence for his declining years. Mr. Hilty is a member of the Mennonite church, of which denomination Mrs. Hilty was also a member. He is a Democrat. He has served his township as supervisor and also as school director. He has always led an active life and is well and favorably known. He enjoys the respect of the community in general and, as a citizen of the township, his character and reputation are above reproach. WILLIAM W. EDWARDS. On what more fitting page can those beautiful words "In Memoriam" be arrayed than on a page of the history of the county in which the person in whose tribute the words are used lived so long and so usefully ; the county in which his manifold activities came to such ripe fruition, the county in which he was so well loved and throughout which he is so sincerely mourned ?' In arraying "In Memoriam" here to the memory of William W. Edwards, long one of the most active and prominent citizens of Putnam county, the biographer is conscious of a sense of peculiar fitness, the sense of doing the right thing in the right place. History is but biography in the mass, for it is the individual that creates the event, and the history of one's time is but the history, in the aggregate, of the individuals who contribute to the events of the period. Many who have lived and labored in the past in Putnam county left the impress of their individuality writ large upon the pao-e of St^ 3^jrs u-/.>i^--s ^-_^y.' .vy- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ^13 their generation's achievements and their names are recalled with veneration and honored as they ought to be by those who, coming after them, have profited by the labors of their lives. These men did well the things which their hands found to do, and, having done their part, passed on, but their memories are as imperishable as the monuments their industry and energy .and painstaking care erected, and their names long will live in the annals of the community whose institutions they so earnestly wrought to perpetuate and in which they achieved so large a measure of success. Among this noble band it may be properly said that none was better known or more popularly regarded than he whose name the reader's eye has noted above, and it is a pleasure for the reviewer to set out a few of the salient points in his life, such points as relate to his public activities and which will be valuable as in- formation to the present and coming generations. In the biography presented elsewhere in this volume, under the name •of Joseph H. Edwards, the well-known banker of Kalida, the genealogy of the Edwards family is set out at some length, and repetition here may not be regarded by the reader as necessary. It will be sufficient to say, therefore, that William W. Edwards was born in Licking county, Ohio, December 19, 1847, the son of Thomas W. and Isabel (Huston) Edwards, the former of whom was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, in 1823, the son of Walter Edwards, a native of Wales, who came to America with his parents when he was twelve years of age and located in Muskingum county, Ohio, where he -grew to useful manhood and where he reared his family, among his chil- dren being Thomas W., who married Isabel Huston, a member of one of the pioneer families of Licking county, Ohio, and who brought his family to Putnam county in the year 1864, he and his wife spending the rest of their lives in Union township, her death occurring in 1892 and his in 1905, he dying in the town of Leipsic, to which he had retired upon giving over the active life of the farm, some years before his death. The memory of Thomas W. Edwards and his good wife is still held precious in the community in which they so long lived, as they were, indeed, active in good works all their lives. That they possessed extraordinary strength of character is demon- strated by the force of character which they imparted to their children, their three sons, William W., John and Joseph H., who so long and so success- fully were associated together in business in this county and its environs, having ungrudgingly attributed much of their success in life to the training they received under the careful charge of their parents. Of these sons, only Joseph H. now survives, the death of John having occurred in 1901. Two 33 5^4 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. daughters of Thomas Edwards also survive, Mrs. S. J. Hoffman and Mrs, C. S. Perry. Tw^o other sons, James and David, died in infancy. Wilham W. Edwards was fifteen years of age when he came to Putnam county with his parents, and he spent the rest of his hfe in this county, grow- ing to be one of the most useful and influential, as well as one of the wealth- iest, men in the county. He died May 21, 1913, and was widely mourned, for he was a man who had inspired many warm and enduring friendships. Though the schools in this county, in the days of his youth, were not what they are now, Mr. Edwards was an apt student and readily absorbed such learning as was afforded in the course at that time prescribed in the country schools, to which was supplemented the instructions received at home from his attentive parents. At the age of seventeen he began teaching school and continued this form of public service for several winters, his summers being occupied in assisting his father on the farm. Evincing, early in life, the peculiar aptitude for business which characterized his later and larger dealings, Mr. Edwards, as a young man, engaged somewhat extensively in the live stock business, in which he made a gratifying measure of success. At the age of twenty-three he formed a partnership with his brother John and I. N. Bushong, in the manufacture of staves, his brother, Joseph H. Edwards, later coming into the firm, at which time, in 1893, it was incorporated under the name of the Buckeye Stave Company, which not only owned mills at several points in this county, but at several points in the neighboring counties in Ohio and at various points in Michigan. The company also engaged in the banking business at Kalida and Continental, and eventually became in- terested in several other banks in Ohio and enterprises of one variety and another, all of which have proved highly successful. A more detailed ac- count of the enterprises in which the Buckeye Stave Company is interested will be found in the historical section of this volume and in the biographical sketch relating to Joseph H. Edwards. The Edwardses were largely interested in the Buckeye National Bank at Findlay, Ohio, and William W. Edwards was president of this institution at the time of his death. He also was very active in the affairs of the Nationaf Bank of Commerce at Toledo, Ohio, in which he was a heavy stockholder, his financial ability and high character giving him a position of virtual leadership in the affairs of that institution, he being the first vice-president of the bank. Upon his death, the board of directors passed a series of resolutions, which- were beautifully hand-illuminated, bound and conveyed to the family of the deceased. In part, these resolutions said : "Perhaps the most prominent trait of Mr. Edwards' character was the- plain, old-fashioned virtue of honesty. And what more or what better could" PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. cje be said of any man, especially of a business man, than that he was an honest man? It is pretty near the sum-total of business virtue. "Shrewd as Mr. Edwards was in all his business deals, and clearly as he saw what was to his own advantage in making them, and accurate as was his judgment of the men with whom he was dealing and the motives by which they were actuated, he never lost sight of the fundamental principle of honesty. He played the game fairly. His word was good. "His other characteristics were akin to this fundamental trait. He was sincere. He had no patience with shams or false pretenses. One always knew that he meant what he said and said what he meant. He was not a man of many words or high-sounding phrases. His speech was simple and straightforward. One always feh that Mr. Edwards would not say one thing to one's face and another thing behind one's back. So, too, he had a high sense of honor in all trust relations. In these days of complex inter- corporate relations, many young men engaged in large business affairs in which they occupy positions of trust, as officers or directors, are sometimes so blinded by their own self-interest as to sacrifice the interests of one set of beneficiaries to those of another set. Not so of Mr. Edwards. He never lost sight of the duty a director of a corporation owes to its stockholders. How wholesome and far-reaching the effect of such an attitude on his part was, no one can tell, for it was a source of strength to his associates who sur- vive him. "These three things, then, Mr. Edwards had, honesty, sincerity, fidelity. "We need hardly speak of his aptitude for business. His success speaks for itself. He was, indeed, in many ways, an ideal of a man of affairs. He was industrious, indefatigable, painstaking, patient of details, losing sight of nothing of importance, and yet with a good sense of proportion. He was a keen judge of men and motives, a prime requisite to success in any busi- ness. And the faculty, his by nature, was developed by a long business ex- perience, until his judgment in any business proposition was almost uner- ring. How we all grew to rely upon it ! "Last, but not least, we must refer to the kindliness which he showed m all his personal relations with his business associates. He was never censorious, even when things seemed to go the wrong way. And he was al- ways quick to appreciate and ready to reward faithful service." The following extract from the public press comments upon the death of Mr. Edwards also throws an additional ray of illumination upon the high character of the deceased: "Among the sons of men we sometimes find a kmg uncrowned. This man was such. Giant in the business and com- mercial world, he was yet, withal, a manly man. Son of the soil, inured to 5i6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. toil, fearing no task, neglecting no detail, he acquired the habit of accom- plishing that which he undertook. He started at the bottom of obscurity. When his race was run, his life and influence had touched almost every field of endeavor. He made money helping others on their way. His business interests reached half the states in the Union. In many boards and groups of men, when fortunes were at stake, he spoke the final word. In affairs of the farm or city, his was the master hand. Men followed him without ask- ing the reason why. Schools, churches, colleges and universities shared the contents of his purse and felt the magic power of his morally righteous life. Thousands will testify that William W. Edwards was their friend." William W. Edwards was united in marriage, on May lo, 1888, to Car- rie Donaldson, who was born at Grand Rapids, Ohio, where she resided until her marriage, except during the time she was engaged in teaching school during her young womanhood. She had prepared herself for teaching by a course of instruction in the college at Lebanon, Ohio, and was an excellent teacher. Mrs. Edwards continues to make her home at Leipsic, this county. By an eariier marriage three children, all of whom survive, were born to William Edwards, as follow : Lillian, who married Dr. B. J. Emory, of Defiance, Ohio; E. C, who is now vice-president of the Buckeye National Bank, of Findlay, Ohio, and vice-president of the National Bank of Com- merce, at Toledo, Ohio, in which sound financial institutions this worthy son of his distinguished father is, in a measure, taking the latter's place; Maude, who married Fred Spencer, of Ottawa, this county. To William and Carrie (Donaldson) Edwards were bom three chil- dren, all of whom survive, as follow: Ruth, the widow of Lawrence S. Lisle, who died on March 15, 1914, leaving a little son, Lawrence WilHam; Catherine, who is now attending Mt. Holyoke College, in Massachusetts, and William Donaldson, aged seventeen, a sophomore at Western Reserve Col- lege. CHRISTIAN ZIMMERLY. There is no earthly station higher than the ministry of the Gospel, and no life can be more uplifting or grand than that which is devoted to thi amelioration of the spiritual ills of the human race, a life of sacrifice for the betterment of the brotherhood of man, one that is willing to cast aside all worthy crowns and laurels of fame to follow in the footsteps of the lowly Nazarene. It is not possible to measure adequately the height, depth and breadth of such a life, for its influence continues to permeate the lives of PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 517 Others through succeeding generations, so the power it has cannot be known until the "last great day when the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised incorruptible." Add to such a life, which is being lived entirely without the consideration of any pecuniary compensation, that other high calling of tilling the soil, and, still further, the spirit and energy which typi- fied the early pioneers, and the result must inevitably be a man whose citi- zenship is a source of pride to his community and a vast benefit to his county. Christian Zimmerly was born in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, October 6, 1841, a son of John and Anna (Berner) Zimmerly. John Zim- merly was born in Lemoges, France, June 14, 1781, and died in Riley town- ship, Ohio, July 21, 1855, at the age of seventy-four. His parents were both natives of France, and died when he was very young, at which time the children were taken by other families in the neighborhood and by them were brought up. John Zimmerly came to America in 1832 or 1833, at the age of fifty- one years. He landed in New York, and from there came to Ohio, over the Erie canal and Lake Erie. He settled first in Wayne county, Ohio, where he stayed about a year, and then moved to Putnam county, Ohio, where he made his home for a time with John Diller, whose wife, Elizabeth, was Mr. Zimmerly's sister. About a year later, Anna Berner came to America. Later she became Mr. Zimmerly's wife. She was the daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Grid- ley) Berner, both of whom were natives of France and lived near Dotariet, France. Anna Bemer was born in upper Alsace, France, April 4, 1801, and died in Wayne county, Ohio, March 23, 1895. She was three months making the voyage to New York, and spent two weeks on Lake Erie while finishing her journey to Ohio. While on the lake a storm was encountered which very nearly caused the entire party to lose their lives. After having .reached Ohio, she remained for a time in Wayne county before she finally came to Putnam county, where she lived in the family of Michael Neun- schwander, one of Putnam county's first settlers, for whom she worked. She was married to John Zimmerly shortly afterward. Mrs. John Zimmerly's father was Samuel Berner, an officer in Napoleon's army at the time of the famous and disastrous campaign and march into Russia. At that time, when about half of Napoleon's army had perished, as the results of cold and hunger, Samuel Berner and eleven of his comrades escaped and made their way back home, where Samuel Berner died a year latter, from the hardships which he had endured. During those times, Mrs. ^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Zimmerly's mother and sisters were compelled to help dig trenches for defen- sive purposes and also to assist in burying the dead. After his marriage, John Zimmerly entered one hundred and sixty acres of government land, the deed for which was signed by President Mar- n" r""" -^u '""' """*"' ^^^ ''^^^ °^ ^^''^ '^' '^^7, at the city of Washington, U. L. Ihis farm, which lies about three and one-half miles southeast of Pandora, Ohio, has been in the family ever since that time It was on this old homestead that Christian Zimmerly, the subject of this sketch, was born A large portion of the farm, during its earlier days, lay under water, a fact which greatly added to the difficulties of its early improvement. John Zimmerly and his wife endured all the hardest and bitterest expe- riences of the pioneers. Mr. Zimmerly was handicapped by a deformity one of his legs being shorter than the other, which made it difficult for him to work. His wife assisted him in the woods when the farm was being cleared and, working together, they were able to clear and prepare for culti- vation enough of the land to gain a living. Mr. Zimmerly was a weaver by trade and was also able to earn a little money by doing work of that sort for his neighbors. In that manner they struggled on year by year, clearing a little more land each season. To add to their difficulties during the early days, they were obliged to go to Perrysburg, Ohio, a distance of sixty miles, to have their grain ground in a mill. Later, they were able to reach a mill at Tiffin, Ohio, which was thirty miles away, and later still their milling was done at Findlay Ohio a distance of sixteen miles from their home. Finally, a mill was started'in Giiboa, Ohio, only six miles distant and later on mills were located still closer Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. John Zimmerly, they were Peter, John and Christian, the latter being the subject of this sketch. Christian Zimmerly was bom on the homestead on October 6 1841 and played his part in the settling of that section and the development of the farm. From his early days he assisted his parents and brothers in the work of clearing the farm and of conducting the farm work. He tells an interest- ing story of one of his early experiences, which is illustrative of the occur- rences m this section at that time. When he was a very small boy, he and his brothers went one day to bring in the cows. When they were found there was with them a magnificent buck deer. At the sight of the strange animal the little boys became frightened and lost no time in climbing a tree The faithful family dog, which had accompanied them, attacked the deer and seized the animal by the throat, after which followed a battle roval between the dog and the frightened stag. The commotion, together with PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 519 the cries of the boys, attracted Isaac Cook, a neighbor, who came running to the scene and ended the battle by cutting the stag's jugular vein. Mr. Zimmerly has always retained a most vivid recollection of that experience, which made a deep impression on his boyish mind. When Christian Zimmerly was fourteen years of age his father died, and the care of the homestead and of their mother was left to the threie brothers. They worked hard and improved the farm year by year, manag- ing to keep abreast of their neighbors in the development work. When Christian Zimmerly was twenty-eight years of age on May 28, 1870, he married Mary Welty, who was born in Riley township, December 20, 1849, a daughter of John and Mary Ann (Gerber) Welty, both of whom were natives of Berne, Switzerland, and who came to America early in life, having setled in Riley township, Putnam county. Previous to his marriage, Mr. Ziminerly had taught school for six years, a profession in which he continued for one year following his marriage. After their marriage. Christian Zimmerly and wife made their home on the old Zimmerly homestead, and Mr. Zimmerly and his brother, John, bought from their brother, Peter, his share in the farm. These brothers then operated the farm in partnership for a period of eight years, when Christian Zimmerly bought his brother John's share and has since operated the farm independently. He has continued to clear and improve the land until he now has one hundred and sixty acres cleared and suitable for cultivation, including forty acres of native timber. Christian Zimmerly, in 1874, was ordained a preacher ("cast by lot") in the Mennonite church and, in 1880, he was made a bishop. For forty- two years he has preached to the members of that denomination, giving his services freely and without financial compensation of any sort. He has fol- lowed his ministerial calling in addition to his work as a farmer and has met with marked success in both. He met with misfortune from fire in 1872, and lost the house which had been erected at the cost of such great effort. Later, in 1899, he met with a similar misfortune, at which time his large barn was burned. Eleven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Christian Zimmerly, as follow: Sarah, now the wife of Levi Oberly; Caroline, the wife of Amos Augsburger; Mary Ann, the wife of Henry Habbigger; John, who is unmar- ried; David, who married Martha Lehman; Anna, the wife of Joshua Amstutz; Levina, the wife of William Habbegger; Paulina, the wife of Albert Lehman; Ardon, who married Amanda Lehman; Leonard who married Ida Mann, and Homer, who is unmarried and lives at home. S20 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Zimmerly is a supporter of the principles of the Democratic party and has always taken an intelligent interest in the political affairs of his- community, although he has never aspired to public office. He and Mrs. Zimmerly are both members of the Swiss Mennonite church, of which he is pastor. Christian Zimmerly is one of the earliest settlers now living in the southwest part of Putnam county and is one of the county's best known and highly respected citizens. He is a type of the clean, high-minded citi- zen that, in many other sections, is all too fast disappearing. As a Christian minister, he is highly esteemed, and as a citizen and a man, there is no resi- dent of the county who is more highly respected or better known. CARLETON P. PALMER. It is the progressive, wide-awake man of affairs that makes the real his- tory of a community. His influence, as a potential factor in the body politic, is difficult to estimate. The example such men furnish, of patient purpose and steadfast integrity, strongly illustrates what is in the power of each to accomplish. There is always a full measure of satisfaction in adverting, even in a casual way, to their achievements, in advancing the interests of their fellow men, in giving strength and solidity to the institutions which make so much for the prosperity of the community. Such a man is Carleton P. Palmer, the cashier of the Continental Bank, of Continental, Putnam county, Ohio, and, therefore, it is eminently proper that a review of his life be given among those of the representative citizens of this county. Carleton P. Palmer was born on July 22, 1877, at Toledo, Ohio. He is a son of Paul B. and Stella (Donaldson) Palmer, the former of whom was born m 1847 at Toledo, Ohio, and who is a son of Nicholas Palmer and wife Nicholas Palmer was a native of Plymouth, England, and came to America m the early thirties, being a pioneer settler at Toledo, Ohio. His wife also came from Plymouth, England, with her parents, who built the first house on what IS now Summit street in the city of Toledo. It was a pioneer log- cabin, built when Toledo was scarcely a promising village. Paul B. Palmer was a teacher in the first business college in Toledo but followed agricultural pursuits most of his life. He is now livino- retired in the city of Toledo. During the active years of his life he was an influential citizen of his community and a man who enjoyed the respect and esteem of all with whom he came in contact. CAltLi:T().\ 1', I'ALMKK PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 52L Carleton P. Palmer spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, in the vicinity of Toledo. He was graduated from the Toledo high school with the class of 1896. After his graduation he engaged in the profession of teach- ing and became township superintendent of the schools in Richfield town- ship, Lucas county, Ohio. He continued in this capacity until 1900, when. he came to Continental and took a place in the Bank of Continental. He began here as a bookkeeper, but a year or so later became cashier and has held this position since that time. Mr. Palmer has proved himself an able business man. He quickly grasped the details of the' banking business, and is naturally courteous and accommodating to the patrons of the bank. Nev- ertheless, he is firm, as one should be who handles money for others. Mr. Palmer was married to Mae Edwards on November 19, 1908. She- is the daughter of Joseph Edwards and wife of Leipsic, and to this union-. one son, Carleton Paul, Jr., has been born. Mr. Palmer is a prominent Mason, having attained to the thirty-second' degree in that order, and is also a member of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. Although a comparatively young man, he is one whose counsels are widely sought in financial and commercial transactions, and a man who- has easily taken foremost rank in the commercial life of Continental arid Monroe township. Mrs. Palmer is popular in Monroe township and active in many enterprises which call for the talent of women. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and contributes liberally to its moral up- lift in the community. ISAAC S. RICKARD. There are many excellent farmers in Van Buren township, Putnam county, Ohio, and among these may be mentioned Isaac S. Rickard, who has- been engaged in agricultural pursuits in this township since 1894. ' As a lad he was compelled to help support the family on account of his four elder brothers serving in the Union army, and the experience he gained in his youth- has been of invaluable benefit to him. Thrown early on his own resources he has developed a self-reliant spirit and a resourcefulness which has made him the prosperous farmer he is today. He is a man of high ideals and sterhng mtegrity and a great worker in the church. Isaac S. Rickard, the son of Andrew Jackson and Hannah (Rockwell) Rickard, was born in Chautauqua county, New York, July 12, 1852 His father was born in New England and moved from New York to Medina Ohio, m 1854, but remained in that city only a short time. He then removed: 522 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. with his family to a farm east of East Milan, in Erie county, Ohio, where he farmed for a time; His next move was to a farm west of East Milan, on which he lived until 1861. In that year he moved to Wood county, Ohio, located on a farm near Bowling Green, and lived here during the Civil War. Later, he settled on a farm east of Bowling Green and lived on this farm until the death of his first wife. A few years later he married Mrs. Porter, but there were no children born to his second marriage. To his first marriage there were born eleven children, eight sons and three daughters, Ellen T., the wife of Henry Gross, 'and has eight children; Zina, who married Martha Sopher, and has eight children; Jacob, who is married and has one child; George W., who married Phlena Sopher, and has four children; Orange J.,' who married Jeanette McDonald, and has nine children; Elizabeth, the wife •of WiUiam Sheets, and has five children, one of whom is deceased; Isaac S., of Putnam county; Phillip W., who married Julia Rathburn; John F., who married Emma Rathburn, and has one child, deceased; Lydia, who died at the age of nine, and Nathan B., who married Flora Taft, and has two children. Isaac S. Rickard spent his boyhood days in Wood county, where he r^eived a limited education in the rude district schools. When the Civil War broke out, though he was only nine years of age, he began to take an active part in the support of the family, his four elder brothers having gone to the front when it became necessary for him to take part of the burden of the family support on his own shoulders. He remained at home until he was married, at the age of twenty, and then began working on a farm near Toledo, Ohio. During the twenty years which elapsed from the time of his marriage until he permanently located in Putnam county, he lived in several places. After working a short time near Toledo, he moved to Miami, Ohio, thence to Milan, in Erie county, and worked in the latter place for about nine years. His next change took him to Wood county, where he located four miles northwest of Milton Center, and where his wife died. After her death he moved to Milton Center, in which place he remained until his second marriage m the fall of 1893. In the following year he moved to Putnam county and located in Van Buren township, where he has since resided. Mr. Rickard was first married on November 24, 1873, to Madora Jane Sheets, the daughter of Albert Sheets. She was born in Wood county, Ohio March 12, 1855, and spent her girlhood days in the same county. To this first union of Isaac S. Rickard were born four children, Melville, who mar- ried Julia Cuisno, died January 9, 1915, they have one daughter, Sadie- Fanny M., the wife of Hiram Cain, has two children, Emma, and Madora' PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 523 deceased; Albert, who died at the age of nine, and one who died in infancy. The first wife of Mr. Rickard died in May, 1887, and on August 20, 1893, he was married to Mrs. Sarah C. (Simonds) Eastom, a daughter of Justice and Lourana (Morehead) Simonds. She was born near Gilboa, Putnam county, Ohio. There were no children to this second marriage. Justice Simonds, the father of Mrs. Rickard, was born in New Hamp- shire, February 10, 1809, the son of Jonathan and Sophia (Sanborn) Simonds, who were of New England stock and natives of New Hampshire. When Justice Simonds was a small boy, his parents moved to Medina, Orleans county. New York, and here he was bound out to learn the trade of a millwright. In Orleans county. New York, the mother of Justice Simonds died, and, after growing to maturity. Justice Simonds moved from New York state to Putnam county, Ohio, where he continued to follow his trade as a millwright. Among other pioneer buildings, he helped to construct the Charles Harmon mill on the Blanchard river. Ju.stice Simonds was married in 1840 to Lourana Morehead, a daughter of Alexander Morehead. She was born on May 8, 1822, and died in July, 1895. Justice Simonds and wife were the parents of nine children, Sanborn, who died in infancy; George, who married Mollie Foltz, and died June 25, 1908; Sarah, the wife of Mr! Rickard; Jeanette, the wife of David Redding, who died in January, 1911; Elmira, the wife of Andrew Fike; Mary Ann, deceased, who was married, respectively, to Martin Wert, James Boyer and William Tuller ; Eliza, the wife of William Bryan; Louminda, the wife of Charles Farquharson; John, who died at the age of twenty-one. After his marriage. Justice Simonds lived for several years on a farm near Gilboa, but, in 1860, removed to another farm three miles north of Leipsic, where he lived until his death, April 25, 1885. Sarah Simonds, the wife of Mr. Rickard, was first married to Frank Eastom, March 21, 1863, and to her first marriage one son, George, was born. He married Bertha Steffer, of Hamilton, Ohio, September 20, 1895, and now makes his home in Denver, Colorado. George Eastom and wife are the parents of four children, Frank, Helen and George are living, and Bertha is deceased. George Eastom is in the real estate and machinery business in Denver. Mr. Rickard and his wife are loyal members of the Methodist Episco- pal church. Mr. Rickard was ordained in the ministry of the Church of Christ, about twenty-five years ago, but has since transferred his member- ship to the Methodlist church. He has preached for four or five years, but has devoted the greater part of his life to farming, although he has always been very active in all church work. He is a man highly respected and honored in his community, where he has lived a life of usefulness. 5^4 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. CHRISTIAN DAVIS. The specific history of the great Middle West was made by the pioneers, and it is not necessary to trace it back farther than a generation in order to- reach the pioneers who were instrumental in founding this great territory. In fact, there are many men yet living who played important parts in the foundation and development of Ohio and neighboring states. Those pioneers who built their rude homes in the forests, which then covered this country, and turned the wilderness into broad stretches of fertile and culti- vated fields, were hardy and industrious men of the finest type. To have established, or to have aided in the work which established, a home amid such surroundings, and to cope with the many privations and hardships which were the inevitable concomitants, demanded an invincible courage and forti- tude, strong hearts and willing hands. All those were characteristics of the pioneers, whose names and deeds should be held in perpetual reverence by those who enjoy the fruits of their toil, and among that number is the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch, and who for many years has been numbered among the most prominent citizens of Put- nam county. Christian Davis was born in Monroe county, Ohio, April 8, 1843, ^ son of Michael and Catherine (Stauffer) Davis. Michael Davis, his father, was born in Pennsylvania in 1875. Little is known of his early life in Penn- sylvania, except that he left there in the early days and came to Wayne county, Ohio. There he met the subject's mother, Mrs. Catherine (Staufifer) Lugibihl, to whom he was married. Mrs. Davis was born in Basel, Switzerland, where she spent her youth and where she was married to Mr. Lugibihl. To that union w* born one daughter, Catherine. Shortly after her birth, Mr. Lugibihl died, and his wife and child came to America, where she entered the employment of Mr. Pixel, of Wayne county, Ohio, in which position she worked until her mar- riage with Mr. Davis. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Davis moved to Monroe county, where Michael Davis had purchased a small farm. There they lived for about ten years, when Mr. Davis died, at the age of forty-seven. Four children had born to Mr. and Mrs. Davis, Fannie, deceased, who was the wife of Anthony Sawin, and to whom three children were born; Rebecca, deceased, who was the wife of Andy Foy, to whom three children were born; John, who married Magdalena Moser, and to whom one son was born, and Christian, the subject of this sketch. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 525 After her husband's death, Mrs. Davis moved to Putnam county and settled on forty acres of farm land one and one-half miles southwest of Pandora, in Riley township. This land she had purchased previous to mov- ing to Putnam county, with money which she had earned and saved prior to her marriage to Mr. Davis. About five years later, when the subject of this sketch was nine years of age, Mrs. Davis was married a third time, her third husband having been Jacob Hipscher. Mr. and Mrs. Hipscher lived together until 1883, when Mrs. Hipscher came to live with her son. Christian, with whom she remained until her death in 1891, thus ending a useful and ■eventful life. At the age of nine years, Christian Davis left home and went to live with his uncle, Christian Basinger, where he remained for nearly two years. He then lived with Abraham Detwiler, with whom, also, he remained for two years. After having left Mr. Detwiler's home, the subject shifted for him- self, working on the various farms and at various other occupations until he was twenty-six years of age. When he was about twenty years old, in 1863, he went with a friend, Henry Griswire, to Ontario, Canada, where they remained three years. From there the subject of this sketch went to Michi- gan, where he worked in the pineries for about a year. When Mr. Davis was twenty-six years of age he married Elizabeth Schmitz, who was born in Baden, Germany, August 17, 1844, a daughter of Abraham and Christina Schmitz. After his marriage, Mr. Davis and Nick Shively erected a saw-mill in Riley township, which they operated for four years. At the end of that time Mr. Davis sold his share in the mill and bought forty acres of farm land, two miles west of Pandora, Riley town- ship. There was a small frame house and a barn on the farm when he settled there, in which he made his home. Later he purchased another farm of forty acres, which adjoined his original holdings on the north. He built a larger house on his new land, and still occupies it. Sometime after this he bought out the heirs of his mother's farm of forty acres, which he eventually sold. He still retains his farm of eighty acres. To Mr. and Mrs. Christian Davis eight children were born, as follow : •Gideon B., who was born on August 28, 1869, and died in 1908; Katharina, who was born on March 19, 1871, and died 1893. She was the wife of Amos Gratz and the mother of one child, Clyde, who died when two years of age; Christina was born on May 28, 1872, and is the wife of Seth Bas- inger, to them three children, Ula, Clyde and Clitus, have been born ; Itha, born on -June 3, 1874, is the wife of Lawn Scheets and has four children, 526 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Edna, Leila, Mahala and Evangeline; Emma, born on December 15, 1876, is unmarried and lives at home; Karolina, born on December 30, 1878, died on January 18, 1880; Elizabeth, born on June 30, 1880, is the wife of Rayton Core and has two children, Arlena and Raymond; Mina was bom yn September 20, 1883, and is the wife of Hiram Basinger. Mr. Davis has always done general farming and has been very success- ful. A few j^ears ago he devoted considerable attention to the buying and feeding of cattle for market, a business in which he met with great success. Mr. Davis is a supporter of the Democratic party. For several years he has served his community as a school director, and has also been for a number of years a supervisor, conducting the affairs of both offices to the complete satisfaction of the citizens. Mr. Davis is one of Riley township's best-known citizens and is highly respected by all his neighbors. He is a man of many sterling qualities and of unquestioned integrity. GUY R. COIT. It is not an easy task to describe adequately the career of a man who has led an eminently active and busy life and who has obtained a position of rela- tive distinction in the community with which his interests are allied. Biog- raphy, however, finds a most perfect justification in tracing and recording the main point in such a life history. With a full appreciation of all that is demanded, and with a satisfaction that is keenly felt, the biographer under- takes to point out a few facts in the career of Guy R. Coit, a well-known real estate and insurance dealer, at Kalida, Ohio, and at present the mayor of Kalida. Guy R. Coit was born in Vaughnsville, Ohio, in Sugar Creek township, November 20, 1880. Mr. Coit left Vaughnsville, Ohio, at the age of four years and grew up in Kalida, where he received his education. He worked at different occupations until 1903, when he started in the real estate busi- ness at that place. He is still actively engaged in this business. He is also engaged in the loan, and insurance business and has had a lucrative patron- age from the time he started. Mr. Coit was cashier of the Peoples Banking Company at Kalida for about twenty months, and city clerk of Kalida during 1907 and 1908. He has been councilman for some years and is now mayor of Kalida, having been elected to this position in the fall of. 191 1. Guy R. Coit, was married on August i, 1905, to Effie Downing, a native PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 527 of Jackson township, Putnam county, Ohio, and a daughter of John L. and Lydia (Sybert) Downing. John L. Downing, at present a stave jointer at Piggott, Arkansas, was born near West Cairo, AUen county, Ohio, February 21, 1859, and was married in 1877 at VaughnsviUe, Ohio, to Lydia Ana Sybert, who was born in 1857, near Bluff ton, Allen county, Ohio. ' John L. Downing was the son of John Downing, who was born near West Cairo,, Ohio, in 1820 and who died in 1861. John Downing married Rebecca Fos- ter, who was born in 1823, in Allen county, Ohio, and died in 1864. They had the following children: John L., of Piggott, Arkansas; Mary C, of Winfield, Kansas, and Harrison, who died in infancy. John Downing was the son of Adam Downing, who was of Irish descent and a pioneer in this section of the country and who is believed to have fought the Indians. Adam Downing married Sarah Allen, who was of Welsh descent and a native of eastern Ohio. Mrs. Lydia Ann (Sybert) Downing was the daughter of Barney and Effie (Long) Sybert, the former of whom died in 1861, and the latter in 1890. They were the parents of the following children: William, Ann, Chnt, George, Hobert, Henry, Benjamin, Louisa, Alice, Sarah, Lydia, Dan- iel and Hiram. John L. and Lydia Ann Downing were the parents of the following- children: George, born in 1877, who lives at Piggott, Arkansas; Joe, borrb in 1880, who married Blanche Sellers, lives in Boynton, Arkansas, and has five children; Armena, Georgia, Lavern, Zelma and Mary; Mrs. Louisa Mack, born in 1882, who lives at Nimmons, Arkansas. She was married at Defiance, Ohio, in 1900, and has four children, Georgia, Russell, Jessie and Clarence; Mrs. Pearl Little, born in 1883, is married and has nine children, Jemima, Gladys, Hazel, Beulah, Vellam, Genevieve, Clayton, Edna and John - Grover, born in 1885, married Grace Palmondon in 1905, and has two chil- dren, his wife died in 1908; Mildred, who lives at Boynton, Arkansas, mar- ried Girty Strats and has one child, Viola; William Wallace, born in 1886, who lives at Maiden, Missouri, married Mary Jaunt in 1907, and has three children, Franklin, Leonard and Sherman; Effie, born in 1887, married Mr. Coit. John L. Downing is a member of Jonathan Lodge No. 115, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, at Monett, Arkansas. To Mr. and Mrs. Coit five children have been born, Guy, Dorland, Doyle, Fremont and Helen. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons at Kalida. He is also a member of the chapter and council. He is one of the leaders in the councils of the Republican -party in this section of -5^8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Ohio, and to him perhaps more than to any other man, the state leaders of the party look for a substantial vote from Putnam county. Mr. and Mrs. Coit are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Kalida, where he is a trustee of the church and has taught a Sunday school class for the past seven years. Mr. Coit's family are also members of this church. Guy R. Coit is a "mixer" and a man who attends strictly to his own business. He has a host of friends and is widely known throughout Putnam county. He is -known as a booster for all city improvements and, although he is progressive m spirit, he is a quiet man and a deep thinker. He is a man who has suc- ceeded largely because of his capacity for devoting himself to details. PETER A. AMSTUTZ. The two most strongly marked characteristics of both the east and the -west are combined in the residents of Ohio. The enthusiastic enterprise which overleaps all obstacles and makes possible almost any undertaking in the comparatively new and vigorous western states is here tempered by the stable and more careful policies that we have borrowed from our eastern neighbors. The combination is one of unusual force and power. It has been the means of placing this section of the country on a par with the older east, and at the same time producing a reliability and certainty in business affairs which are frequently lacking in the west. This happy combination is also possessed, in a notable degree, by Peter A. Amstutz, for several years now the efficient cashier of the Farmers Banking Company of Pandora. He is too well known to the readers of this volume to need any formal introduc- tion here, for his name is deeply fixed in the financial, commercial, profes- sional and industrial history of this section of the state. Mr. Amstutz, him- self,^ is filling a large place in the public affairs of his community. He is rec- ognized as a man of strong and alert mentality, deeply interested in eveiy- thing that pertains to the welfare of the community. He is a progressive and enterprising business man and a representative citizen of Riley township and Putnam county. Peter A. Amstutz was born on February q, 1868, in Riley township, Put- nam county, Ohio, the son of Abraham M. and Catherine (Hilty) Amstutz the former of whom was born on September 20, 1844, in Richland township,' Allen county, Ohio, and the latter was born on April 19, 1848, in Richland -^township, Allen county, Ohio. Abraham M. Amstutz is the son of John and Barbara (Tschantz) Am- ri"n;i; a. ams'ittz. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 529 stutz. John Amstutz was born in Switzerland and came to America in 1840 with his wife and three children. They settled in Richland township, Allen county, Ohio, near Bluffton. John Amstutz was a farmer in Switzerland and the Amstutz family was an old one in the community from which he came. It is related that the name Amstutz originated from a family by the name of Stutz who lived on a hill, the German prefix "am" meaning "on the," being prefixed' to the name Stutz and resulting in the final Amstutz, which means "on the hill." Another explanation of the name Amstutz is gi\'en, which says that Stutz means a "steep hill," or rather "a bluff" or "precipice." Perhaps a John Stutz lived at or near to this bluff or preci- pice, and, to distinguish him from other Johns, it was said that he was John Amstutz, meaning the John who lived by the precipice. John Amstutz and his little family were fifty-two days on a sailing ves- sel in coming to America. They came directly to Allen county, where John Amstutz settled on a farm just north of Bluffton. After two years he re- moved to a farm one-half mile south of Columbia, later called Pendleton, and, still later. Pandora. Here he made his future home, clearing the land and draining it. He built an adobe house of mud and straw about 1855, a part of which is standing today. The mud and straw were mixed by oxen trained for the feat. In addition to being a faimer, John Amstutz was a minister in the Mennonite church and was an active minister until the time of his death. He was also a mechanic of considerable ability, and in the •early days he made spinning wheels for spinning both wool and cotton. After spending a most useful life, he died at a ripe old age, in 1858, on the old homestead south of Pandora. John and Barbara Amstutz were the parents of five children, three of the eldest having been born in Switzerland, and the two youngest in Allen and Putnam counties. All lived to maturity. They were : Fannie, the wife of Jonas Amstutz, both deceased ; Marian, the wife of Abraham Bixter, both ■deceased; Christian, who married Barbara Schuhmacher, both deceased; Abraham, who married Catherine Hilty, the parents of Peter A. ; Peter M.,' deceased, who had three wives, Anna Light, deceased. Belle Sitlemeyer, de- ceased, and Mrs. Downing. Abraham M. Amstutz spent his boyhood on the old homestead and here grew to manhood. He attended the common schools and at the age of twenty-two was married to Catherine Hilty, the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Neuensch wander) Hilty, both natives of Switzerland, who came to America in the early days. They settled in Richland township, Allen county, Ohio, four miles west of Blufifton. They were the parents of eleven 34 53° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. children: Isaac, John, Barbara, Benjamin, Catherine, Noah, Mary (de- ceased), Sarah (deceased), Peter, Samuel and Elizabeth (deceased). The parents of these children spent the remainder of their lives on the old home- stead in Allen county, and it was here that Mrs. Amstutz grew to woman- hood, received her early education and remained until she was married. She was married in January, 1866, at the age of eighteen. After their marriage they settled on a portion of the old John Amstutz homestead, south of Pandora. Here Abraham Amstutz pursued farming un- til he retired and moved to Pandora, in 1908. He has been a successful farmer and stock raiser. He is an ardent Democrat and was president of the township school board for a number of years. He is a man possessed of strong civic pride, of sterling integrity and is held in high esteem by his fel- low citizens. He is also an active and consistent member of the Grace Men- nonite church and was trustee in the old Swiss church. Abraham M. and Catherine Amstutz have had eleven children: Peter, the subject of this sketch; Barbara, the wife of Jacob Suter; John, who married Susan Basin- ger; Elizabeth, the wife of Elias Welty; Levina, the deceased wife of John Gerber ; Amos, who died in infancy ;_ Llewellyn, who first married Nona Lora and later Delia Suter; Albert, who married Malinda Gratz; Edwin, who died at the age of five years; Mary, the wife of A. J. Welty, and Selma, the wife of William Lugibihl. Peter A. Amstutz was born on the old home place, south of Pandora, and lived there until 1891, when he was twenty-three years of age. Here he re- ceived his early education and here he lived while he was a student in the high school at Pandora and Crawfis College. During his boyhood he helped his father on the farm, and later taught school. When he was twenty-three years old he took a clerkship in a general store in Columbus Grove and held this position for six years. Mr. Amstutz was married, at the age of twenty-four, on January 5, 1893, to Persis Basinger, the daughter of Jacob C. and Mary (Basinger) Basinger. She was born on November 19, 1870, in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio. Her people were pioneers of Putnam county. To this happy union six children have been born : Orpha E., who is a student at Ohio State University; William B., who is a student at Bliss College, at Columbus; Harley C, who is a student in the high school; Wendell H. and Margaret J.,' who are both at home and attending the graded school, and Roland, who died at the age of seven months. After spending six years at Columbus Grove, Mr. Amstutz bought a new general store at Pandora. He remained in this business for about one PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 531 year and then took a partner, the new firm becoming P. A. Amstutz & Com- pany. This business was conducted with marked success until 1903, when Mr. Amstutz bought a farm in Richland township, Allen county, which he operated for one year. He then made a short stay in Petoskey, Michigan, after which he purchased an interest in the Pandora Hardware Company, in the fall of 1905. Mr. Amstutz controlled a half interest in this concern and withdrew from the active management of it in the fall of 1909. At this time Mr. Amstutz was elected cashier of the Farmers Banking Company, of Pandora, which position he still holds. Previously he had been a director of the bank, which position he still retains. Peter A. Amstutz is a Democrat, and has served as township clerk for three terms. He was also clerk of the school board. He is a prominent mem- ber and one of the founders of the Grace Mennonite church. He has been secretary and treasurer of this congregation since its organization. Mr. Amstutz has been a successful business man and banker in this community for several years. He stands high in the vicinity in which he lives, and no better evidence of this fact is required than reference to the many positions of trust and responsibility which he has held and which he now occupies He IS an upright citizen, a good neighbor and a fine father. His character and mtegrity are above question, and it is to him that the best people of the community come for counsel and advice, which Mr. Amstutz is eminently qualified to give. He is present mayor of Pandora, his term to expire in 1916. He was president of the city council of Pandora for four years CHARLES FREMONT ALKIRE. Men who take an active interest in public questions are ever honored by their community. They are known as leaders, and by their helpfulness and counsel contribute materially to the public welfare. A man of this Mn Alkire who is one of the most successful farmers of Putnam county IS descended from a hne of illustrious ancestors, men who fought in dfe early wars of th.s country and who did their part in their day and gene S^Tin^tX: ^°""'"°" " ' ^°™^"^ -''-' theirUrfy"- Mr. Alkire was born on December 10, 1856, at Pandora. He is the son of George W. and Catherine (Hart) Alkire. George W. Alkire was bZ 532 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. in Madison county, Ohio, December 25, 1826, and he was the son of Will- iam M. and Hannah (Osborn) Alkire. William M. Allaire was born on November 10, 1799, in Kentucky, and he was the son of Wilham and ■Ehzabeth (More) Alkire. Wilham Alkire was born in 1751, in Germany, and married in 1778. He came to America prior to the American Revolu- tion, settlmg in Kentucky. Here William M., his son, was born on Novem- ber 10, 1799. William M. was a millwright by trade and served in the War of 1812. He came to Madison county when a young man and was married here on December 4, 1822, to Hannah Osborn, who was born in Virginia on August 11, 1804. She died on April 15, 1843, in that portion of Putnam county which later became a part of Allen county. William M. died at the home of his son, George W., north of Pandora, on January 25, 1886. He had come to Putnam county in 1834, when George W was eight years old, and later settled in the north part of Richland township, Allen county, entering land from the government, and passing through all the pioneer ex- periences common to his day and generation. After his wife's death, he traded his homestead for a store at Pandora, traded the store for eighty acres in Defiance county. Subsequently, he made his home with his son, George W., who was then living at Pandora. George W. Alkire was reared as a farm boy and was one of six children, Edwards P. served in the Civil War and lived in Manistee county, Michigan,' Richard was a farmer m Putnam county; Madison an orange grower in Cahtornia; and John in Picqua county, Ohio, and Adam, of Riverside, California. George W. Alkire was married in 1851, to Miss Catherine Hart, daughter of John and Mary (Meng) Hart, both natives of Penn- sylvania. John Hart came to Putnam county in 1842, entered land in the fall. He was three times married. He first married Mary Meng, three of whose children died in infancy, the others being, Mrs. Alkire, Elizabeth, Mrs. Dora Brown, Absalom, Samuel, John F and Margaret. Mary Menc^ Hart died in i866, after which Mr. Hart removed to Allen county, where he died m 1887. He and his wife were members of the Presbvterian church. George W. Alkire and wife were the parents of six children, 'four of whom were reared to maturity,. John A., of Valparaiso, Indiana; Charles Fremont of Putnam county; William H.. also of Putnam county, and Mary E the wife of James Preston. Mr. and Mrs. George Alkire were members of the Presbyterian church. diaries Fremont Alkire remained in Pandora with his parents until he was seven years old, when they moved one and one-half miles north of Pandora. Here Charles Fremont spent his boyhood days on the old home PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. r,, place, alternating the summer and winter months between the district school and his father's farm, until, at the age of nineteen, when, with his brothers John and William, farmed the home place for one year. For the ensuing three years he and his younger brother, William, farmed it together, and for the next two Charles farmed the place alone. About this time, on January 19, 1882, Mr. Alkire was married to Minerva Kellen, the daughter of John and Catherine (Joseph) Kellen. Mrs. Alkire was born on December 7, 1857. She died on December 19, 1882. One child, Mary C, was born to this union. She now resides with Mr. Alkire. After suffering the great misfortune of Mrs. AJkire's death, Mr. Alkire was joined again by his younger brother William and together they farmed the home place for two years. In the fall of 1885, Mr. Alkire was married to Maiy Mallahan, who was born in Hancock county, August 3, 1857, and who is the daughter of Charles F and Jane (Downing) Mallahan. Charles F. Mallahan died on December 30, 1877, just before he was to have taken the office of county commissioner, to which he had previously been elected. Charles F Mallahan's grandfather and John Downing were under the com- mand of General Hull when he surrendered Detroit. They saw General Cass break his sword rather than to surrender it to the British. Charles F. Malla- han was born on September 26, 1818, in Fairfield county, Ohio. He was the son of Thompson and Sarah (Clymer) Mallahan, the former a native of Ken- tucky and the latter a native of Maryland. Thompson Mallahan died in Fairfield county in 1833, when Charles F. was fifteen years of age. Jane (Downing) Mallahan was born on January 25, 1817, in' Pike county, Ohio and was the daughter of John and Mary (Boiler) Downing, the former a native of Virginia. After his second marriage, Mr. Alkire continued farming on the old home place for two years. In the spring of 1888, he moved to a farm of seventy-five acres, which was a part of the old Mallahan place in the north- west part of Riley township. Mr. and Mrs. Alkire moved into an old house on the place, where he immediately erected a new building. The place had an old log barn which served two years, which was supplanted by a smaller frame buildmg. He built a large and commodious barn in 1897, and since that time has added other improvements in keeping with the surroundings By this -second marriage three children have been born, Charles G was born on October 19, 1887, and died on August 27, 1888; Clifford M was born on February 17, 1891 ; Ralph M. was born on August 29, 1898 Clif- ford M. and Ralph M. are both unmarried and live at home. Mr. Alkire has always done general farming and has made a specialty 534 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of raising good cattle and horses. He has been very successful with live stock. Mr. Alkire is a Republican. Mrs. Alkire is a member of the Christian church. Charles Fremont Alkire is a clean-cut, progressive farmer, coming from an old pioneer family. He enjoys the respect of his fellow citizens and his integrity has always been above question. JOHN HABEGGER. Putnam county, Ohio, enjoys a remarkable reputation on account of the high order of its citizenship, none of whom occupies a more enviable posi- tion in the esteem of his fellows than John Habegger, a successful farmer of Riley township, who has lived here practically all his life. A residence in Putnam county of sixty years has given his neighbors and the men with whom he has been associated a full opportunity to observe him in the various spheres of endeavor and activity in which he has been engaged. His present high standing is due solely to his honorable and upright career. As a leading citizen of Riley township and Putnam county, Mr. Harbegger is eminently entitled to representation in a work of this character. John Habegger was born on March 17, 1856, in Riley township, Put- nam county, Ohio. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Steiner) Habegger. John Habegger, Sr.., was born in 181 1 in the canton of Berne, Switzerland, and came to America with his parents at the age of twenty-two or about 1833. They came direct to Putnam county, where they settled in' Riley township, on what is now known as the Fred Welty farm, about three miles east of Pandora. John Habegger, Sr., was married shortly after his arrival in this country to Elizabeth Steiner. She was a native of Switzerland and likewise came to America with her parents, making the voyage in about two months. Her parents settled in Putnam county, where she was married John Habegger, Sr., lived for about two years on the place east of Pandora, and was employed during this time by some of the early settlers of this part of the county. In the meantime, he purchased forty acres of land two and one-half miles north of Pandora and moved to this farm This land was m the virgin forest and was covered with water during a part of the year. He first built a log cabin in the woods and cleared a little patch of ground. During the larger part of his younger married life he was com- pelled to continue his labors for other settlers on account of high waters PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 535 -on his farm. It was a good many years before this part of the country was ditched. It is related by Mr. Habegger's son that in those early days the pioneers were compelled to carry supplies to their farms on their backs. Some years later, Mr. Habegger bought a block of four hundred and eighty acres of land from the Hilty estate, adjoining his land on the south. This land he purchased with the understanding that his neighbors would help him out by taking a part of the same ofif his hands. They, however, did not fulfill their part of the agreement as he expected, and though he finally dis- posed of the greater part of this tract, it was at a greatly reduced price and he barely got out of it what he had paid for it. He managed to retain one hundred and twenty acres for his eldest son and twenty acres for himself. Subsequently, he managed to get his farm all cleared up and drained. He -built a substantial frame house and barn. Mr. and Mrs. John Habegger, Sr., were the parents of nine children: Barbara, the wife of Nicholas Kaufifman; Christina, the wife of Christian JSFeuenschwander ; Isaac, who married Rebecca Shank; Anna, the wife of Samuel Kohl; Mary, who first married John Neuenschwander, and, after his death, Frank Pelzel; Catherine, the wife of Peter Nusbaum; Elizabeth, the wife of Henry Smutz; Mary Ann became the wife of Joel Basinger, and John, the immediate subject of this sketch. John Habegger, Sr., died about 1885, at the ripe old age of seventy- four years. One year later, his wife, who was born in 1812, died at the same age. They were both members of the Mennonite church and lived consistent Christian lives. John Habegger, Jr., was born on the old homestead, and here spent .his childhood and youth, attending the district schools, and assisting his father with the work on the farm. Mr. Habegger was married on December 28, 1876, at the age of twenty, to Angeline Reed, who was born in Blanchard township, in this county, about two miles west of Gilboa, on July 9, 1857. She is a daughter of George and Elizabeth (Parks) Reed, the former a son of John and Mary Reed, was a native of Pennsylvania. He came to Muskingum county, Ohio, in an early day, where he met and married his wife, Elizabeth Parks, the daugh- ter of Doctor Parks and wife. After his marriage in Muskingum county, he moved to Hancock county, Ohio, and after living here for about ten or twelve years, moved to Blanchard township, Putnam county, Ohio, where his daughter, Angeline, the wife of Mr. Habegger, was born. George and Elizabeth Reed were the parents of ten children, one of whom died at birth. The others were as follows: Margaret, the wife of Jacob Nicewander; 536 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. John, who marned Ada Crawfis; Mary, who became the wife of Nicholas Miller; Anna, who died in infancy; George, who first married Eliza Em- mons and later Cynthia Henderson; Angeline, the wife of Mr Habegger- Sarah, the wife of Henry Kitchener; Isadore, the wife of John DeVore'' Herman, whose first wife was Ella Snyder. After his marriage Mr. Habegger worked on the neighboring farms ior about a year, and then rented the home place, where he has lived ever' since. About two years after his father's death, Mr. Habegger bought the old home place from the other heirs, and it has remained in his possession since that date. John Habegger, Jr., has been a hard-working and indus- trious farmer, and by dint of energy has greatly improved the home place until today he has one of the nicest farms of its size in Riley township Mr. and Mrs. Habegger have had two children, Clara Elizabeth bora on xMovember 14, 1877, is the wife of Curtis Franchauser, of Pandorl and they have two children, Amy Grace and John Laurel; Herman Otto', the younger child of Mr. and Mrs. Habegger, was born on August x., 880! and died on August 3, 1882. Mn Habegger is a Democrat, but has never been active in the coun- cils of his party, although he takes a worthy interest in public affairs He attends the Methodist Episcopal church, of which his wife's a membe:: Mr Habegger is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 509, at Pandora'^ He IS one of the most favorably known men m Riley township, a progres- sive farmer and a genial, good-natured, honorable citizen. WILLIAM W. SMITH. . yhen a good man passes away, then do people mourn; his family, his friends, his fe low citizens, with whom he has labored for the common good bo.w their heads m grief. He is no more, yet his works go on and on. Ther; Wm-am W f Vh'"""^ °' r ^'^^^ "^^"- °"^^ ^'^ '^'y ^-- The late William W. Smith was so closely identified with the history of Putnam county for so many years, that this volume would be incomplete if it failed to pay a proper tribute to his life and work The late William W. Smith, former editor and publisher of the Leipsic Free Press, was a son of John and Mary Jane (Boylan) Smith. John SnS was a son of Nimrod and Mary (Sauer) Smith, the ormer of whonrw PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 537 a native of Pennsylvania, who settled in Stark county, Ohio, in an early day. Subsequently, he removed to Hancock county, where he died as the conse- quence of an accident. Nimrod Smith was one of the pioneers of his da)', fond of hunting and fishing. John Smith was born on November 19, 1826,. in Stark county, and was reared as a fanner. He was twice married, first on June 14, 1849, to Jane Boylan, who died on August 28, 185 1. To this union were born two children, namely: Maroa J., the wife of Irvin Blair, of Hubbard, Iowa, and William W., the immediate subject of this sketch. The second wife of John Smith was Susan Farver, to whom he was mar- ried on May 25, 1854. To this marriage seven children were born : Mary E., born on March 15, 1855, married David Hoskins, and died on September 5, 1880; Eugene F., born on February 28, 1857, and died on April 6, 1877;: Clarissa A., born on December 5, 1858, died on February 26, 1873; Benjamin M., born on March 27, 1862, died on September 25, 1863; Norris A., born on March 18, 1864, died on March 31, T877; Cora M., born on January- u, 1867, is the wife of Otto Hannan; Burton S., born on January 6, 1870, died on -March 29, 1877. Of this large family, only two children are living, Mrs. Cora Harmon, of Los Angeles, Cahfornia, and Mrs. Maroa Blair, of Hub- bard, Iowa. The venerable John Smith, the father of these children, is still hale and hearty at the advanced age of eighty-eight. William W. Smith was born on a farm in Blanchard township, Hancock county, Ohio, April 5, 1850. He moved to Putnam county with his parents in 1855, locating on a farm east of Gilboa. Mr. Smith attended the country schools, and was such an earnest stu- dent that at the age of fifteen he was able to obtain a teachers certificate, and began teaching in 1865. With the exception of a few years spent in the Findlay high school, and at Heidelberg College, at Tiffin, Ohio, Mr. Smith, followed the occupation of a teacher until 1878. He came to Leipsic in i8'"o and was married on August 27, 1874, to Viola Baughman, the youngest daughter of Abraham Baughman and wife. Mr. Smith founded the Leipsic Free Press in 1878. His first paper was issued on September i ^, 1878. His whole life was devoted to this paper and its interests. Space was always given in aid to all good causes, and, with it as an instrument, Mr. Smith probably did more good than any other man in Leipsic. Pie was always on the right side of all local c|uestions, and the columns of the Free Press were ever open to discussion of topics for the good of the communitv. He \\as broad and sympathetic, quick to distinguish the right, and not slow to take a decided stand for it. His editorials were little sermons in themselves, and 538 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. went forth to cheer many a weary soul upon his way to better Hving. His whole aim was to bring his paper and his print shop to the highest standard, and to this end he devoted every moment possible, and until just before his death, February i6, 19 12, he was in his editorial chair, guiding and directing his paper. Mr. and Mrs. WilHam W. Smith were the parents of two sons, Clyde L. and George F. Clyde is now a practicing physician at Fremont, Ohio, and George F. succeeded his father as editor of the Leipsic Free Press. Mr. Smith was an ardent Democrat, and took an active interest in the councils of his party. He was postmaster of Leipsic, at one time, filling this position to the entire satisfaction of the patrons. Mr. Smith was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, from the blue lodge to the thirty- second degree, and next to his family and his work, he loved this fraternal order. He was affiliated with the Leipsic lodge, the encampment of the In- dependent Order of Odd Fellows, and also a member of the Leipsic lodge of Knights of Pythias. Mr. Smith was a devoted and earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the Sabbath always found him in his church pew, an attentive listener to the pastor. It seems fitting to close this sketch with a tribute made to the late Mr. Smith at the time of his death : "Loving and generous even to a fault, there was nothing father could do that was not done. He was a dutiful husband, always considerate of every wish of his devoted wife and their two children. He is gone, but the loving deeds of husband and father will ever remain a sweet memory of one who has made the world better by living in it." CHRISTIAN A. HART. Among the families of Putnam county, Ohio, whose members have worthily discharged their duties to their fellows and to their communities, no family takes higher rank than that of the Hart family. For many years the members of this family have stood for all that is best in business, educa- tional, moral and social life, and have wielded an influence that is poten- tial in the development and welfare of this county. Christian A. Hart is numbered among the enterprising and progressive citizens of Putnam county. Because of the prominence which the family has enjoyed and the close rela- tion they have attained to the welfare and prosperity of the locality, hon- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 539 ■ored by his citizenship, he is eminently entitled to representation in the work of the character of the one in hand. Christian A. Hart was born on December 30, 1862, in Pleasant town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio, the son of Samuel L. and Anna (Amstutz) Hart. Samuel L. Hart was born on January 13, 1840, the son of John S. Hart. John S. Hart was a native of Pennsylvania and came to Ohio in an ■early day, settling in the southeast part of Pleasant township. Here Samuel L,. Hart was reared and, here also. Christian A. Hart was born. When Christian A. Hart was three years old, his mother died and he was taken care of by a paternal uncle, John, and his sister, Margaret. He continued in their care for about two years, or until Samuel L. Hart had been married a second time to Sarah Kaufman, when he was again taken care of by his father and foster mother. Christian A. Hart had a younger brother, John S., and an elder sister, Mary, who were children by the first marriage. After Samuel L. Hart was married the second time, he and his family moved one and one-fourth miles north of Pandora and here Christian A. Hart spent his childhood and youth. Here he attended the district schools and helped his father on the farm. He also helped to clear away the timber. After finishing the district schools, he attended Otterbein College, where he took a normal course- of three terms. After that he again returned home and continued to help his father until he was married at the age of twenty-two. Christian A. Hart was married on December 17, 1885, to Abbie Amanda Reeves, who was born just east of Pandora, October 4, i860, and who is the daughter of Finley and Elizabeth (Herron) Reeves. Finley Reeves was born in Tuscarawas county, June 6, 1820. His parents were both natives of Pennsylvania. Finley Reeves and family moved to Putnam county in 1859 and settled in Riley township on a farm of one hundred and twenty acres just east of Pandora. Here he lived until his death in June, 1891. His wife died on February 13, 1879. It was here that Mrs. Hart was born and reared and attended the public schools of Pandora. After leaving the com- mon schools, she attended the Columbus Grove high school, and following this, took a special normal course at the Northern Ohio Normal University, at Ada. Upon finishing this course, she taught school for five years, or until her marriage in 1885. After his marriage, Christian A. Hart purchased a farm one-half mile north of Pandora. This farm contained seventy-nine acres and here he and his wife lived for nine years. Mr. Hart then sold out and moved to Pandora, where he continued in the live stock business in which he had been engaged ^"^° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. some time previously. He continued in this business seven or eight years and then devoted h.s attention to the farm and also to his scales at 'he stock yards, which he had been operating for about twenty-two years Th f\ '"^ ^''. ?"'*'"" "^^ ^^'' ^^^^ '^^^" *^ P^r^"ts of six children The first and th>rd chddren died at birth, the second child, Glenn, died when mne days old and Grace Elizabeth, who was born on Januar; 20, 1900 d:ed on October 5 1900. The two Hving children are LeonaTd Wilham born on May x, 1893, and Walter Reeves, born on August 8, 1895 both of' whom are at home. > ya- ^.^.10 01 of w\ ?''' ■'. ^^^P"^^'•^^"• He attends the Methodist Episcopal church of which his wife IS a member. Christian A. Hart is one of the prominent well-known men of Pandora and Riley township, a progressive citizen and IZT. ht ref ^^"^^ ^" -^-'-'-^ -' ^'^ -^y "^'-^ - ^^e comlnt Reverting to Mr. Hart's father, Samuel L. Hart, it may be said that his father, John Hart, was born in 1809, in eastern Pennsylvania, the son o George and Mary Hart, also natives of Pennsylvania. Georg Hart came Tea^o^r'net g" ^^t' '^'^^ ^ ^^^ ^^^^ '^ -" l^^JZ ]Zaftt ^''%^'''^-' ^''' ^^--"-1 the balance of his life, dying in 850, at the age of seventy years. He owned a farm near Jeromesville, Ash- four daughters, John was the oldest child and spent his youth in Ashland irto Ma"^ M-""T"' T' ^'■'^^'-^-° ^'^^^^^ ^' ^^-' -^- he was mar- nel to Mary Ming, also of Ashland county. To this union nine children -re born, three of whom died in infancy, three sons and three daughters Samuel L., John S., and Margaret N. The last two children were born in ZZelTT '° "'"' ''""' J°'" ""''' ^^"^ ^" *^ f^ll °f ^841, when shin ; i!' '°"'-r'' ''^^'''" "'°"'h^ °^'^- ^' ^^"l^d in Pleasant town- hip about hree miles southeast of Pleasant Grove and here purchased one hundred and sixty acres of lanH -lU ^f t,- u ,■ • ''^'"^ ""*^ unimnrnv.H T u u '"^'^^^ ^^' ^^^^''^^ ^^^ timber and nimprov d. John Hart proceeded to clear this land and later built a plank rir ' /"""•'""■ ""^^ ''^ ^'-'''^^ ^-- "P -^1 Samuel L. !pent his youth and remained until twenty-six years of ao-e During the^first year of the Civil AVar, in isli, John Hart enlisted in he Fifty seventh Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, ind served two J as mong ot er important engagements, he participated in the battles of P tt ! burg Landing and the siege of Vicksburg. He served under General Rice from Putnam county. On account of sickness, due to a prevailing dp PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 54I ■disease, he was discharged. He was a very active man and it is related that during a contest among the soldiers who were trying to jump over a mule at the siege of Vicksburg, John Hart was the only man in the brigade able to accomplish the feat. He jumped over the mule to the great delight of his comrades. After his discharge, he returned home, in 1863, and resumed farming, but three years later his wife died. John Hart was married again, in 1869, to Mrs. Jane (Bogart) Ward. To this union, one child, Jacob Hart, was born. About ten years later, his wife died and he was married a third time to a widow by the name of Minson, but there were no children by this union. After his last marriage, he moved to Columbus Grove, where he lived for a year or two and then moved to a farm two miles south of Columbus Grove. Two years later, he died at the age of seventy-seven years. After Samuel Hart married, he farmed his father's place for five years. He married Anna Amstutz, February 19, 1861. She was the daughter of Christian and Anna (Burkholder) Amstutz, both pioneer settlers of Putnam ■county. The three children born to this marriage are : Mary Ann, Christian A. and John S. A little less than five years after his marriage, Mrs. Hart died, February i, 1866. Just prior to his wife's death, Mr. Hart moved to a farm one and one-half miles north of Pandora. Two or three days later, they were on a visit to the old home place when Samuel Hart's mother died, January 25, 1866, and six days later his wife died. Samuel Hart continued to farm the place north of Pandora, the children having been placed with relatives, and here he farmed for thirty years. About fourteen months after his first wife's death, he was married to Sarah Kauffman, of Ashland county, Ohio, the daughter of Andrew Kauff- man and wife. No children were born to this marriage. His second wife died in 1884 and three years later, on February 6, 1887, he was married, a third time, to Margaret V. Poe, who was born in Putnam county, July 27, 1858, and who was the "daughter of James and Nancy (Simpson) Poe. The former was a native of Hancock county and the latter of Putnam county. To this last marriage, one child, Alvin, was born. Fie resides on- the home place and a part of the tirrie at Ottawa. As has been said heretofore, the Hart family has always been prominent in the community where they live. For several generations, they have been people of industrious habits, frugal, prudent and broadminded. They repre- sent the best blood and sinew of Putnam county and are, therefore, worthy the esteem in which they are held. 542 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. DAVID C. STEINER. Among the citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, who built up comfortable homes and provided themselves with valuable property, few have attained a greater degree of success than David C. Steiner, of Rilev township one of the most public-spirited citizens of the county. With many discourage- ments to overcome, he has achieved an exceptional success in life, and has- the gratification of knowing that his community has been greatly benefited by his presence and his counsel. He is regarded as a good business man and a man who is possessed of sound judgment and foresight, who believes m pressing forward and in keeping the wheels of the car of civilization ever moving onward. He enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him and as a consequence of his business ability and his interest in public affairs' he IS regarded by all as one of the substantial and worthy citizens of Put- nam county. David C. Steiner was born in Riley township, September 16, 1860 the son of Christian and Magdalene (Lugibihl) Steiner. Christian Steiner'was born m Richland township, Allen county, Ohio, January 25, 1838 the son of Peter and Barbara (Schuhmacher) Steiner. Peter Steiner was born in Alsace, m 1810, and was the son of a farmer. He married Barbara Schuh- macher, a native of Basel, Switzerland, in 1835. She was born in 1811 Soon after their marriage they came to America, and were forty days in making the voyage across the ocean. They settled two and one-half miles west of Blufifton, in Richland township, Allen county. At that time the country was in a virgin state, being covered with timber. They passed through all of the pioneer experiences. He died at the age of sixty in 1870 and nineteen years later his wife died at the age of seventy-eight. The were the parents of four sons and seven daughters, three of whom still sur- vive. The present living children are: Christian, Elizabeth and Peter P Christian Steiner, the father of David C. Steiner, spent his boyhood on the old homestead in Richland township, Allen county. Here he attended the typical log cabin school house as a boy and young man. He helped his father clear the land and also helped to make the brick with which to build their residence, which stands today. At the age of twenty-one, he was mar- r °" °Z ^^' ^^^^' '° Magdalene Lugibihl, who was born on Decem- ber 23, 1840, in Riley township, Putnam county. She is the daughter of Christian and Barbara (Hilty) Lugibihl. Christian Lugibihl was born in Alsace, November 21, 1809, and as a child came with his parents to America PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. e^^ and settled in Ohio. He was married, in 1838, to Barbara Hilty, who was born in Berne, Switzerland, April, 1814. After their marriage they removed to Riley township in Putnam county, settling two and one-half miles east of Pandora. Barbara (Hilty) Lugibihl died at the age of thirty- seven, in 1853. She was the mother of ten children. Her husband died two and one-half years later, in 1855. After his marriage. Christian Steiner located on a farm of one hundred and twenty acres one mile east of Pendle- ton on the Ridge road. Only a few acres of this farm were cleared and it had a one-roomed log cabin in which David C. Steiner was born. His father proceeded to clear the land and also engaged in the saw-mill business for several years, in conjunction with three neighbors. A part of this work was keeping the books for this enterprise. Christian Steiner has always been a very successful farmer and has always been an extensive feeder of cattle and hogs and, during recent years, has specialized in Polled Durham cattle. He is a Democrat, and served as district clerk and was a member of the school board for several years. He has acted as an administrator and executor of many estates. He is a member of the Grace Mennonite church, of which he has been a liberal supporter. When the St. John's was built, he was a member of the building committee. Mr. Steiner is a public-spirited citizen, of clean character and sterling integrity. He and his wife have been the parents of eleven children, six sons and five daughters,, David C, Samuel C, Susan, deceased; Gideon C, Elizabeth, Peter C, Elias, Barbara, Christian, Sarah, who died at the age of two years, and Mary. David C. Steiner was born on the old homestead and there grew to- manhood. He attended the district schools and the Northwestern Ohia University, at Ada, for five terms, after which he taught school for five years. He was considered one the successful teachers in this township. When Mr. Steiner was twenty-six years old, he was married on March 10, 1887, to Barbara Welty, who was born, on January 15, 1866, in Rich- land township, Allen county, Ohio. She is the daughter of Frederick and Catherine (Steiner) Welty, the former a native of Berne, Switzerland, and the son of John and Christina (Gerber) Welty. Frederick WeUy came to America in 1856, at the age of twenty-five, with his parents, and settled in Richland township, Allen county. He was born on February 6, 1831. He was married on September 4, 1856, to Catherine Steiner, the daughter of John F. and Barbara (Habegger) Steiner, both of whom were natives of Switzerland. They came to America in an early day, when Catherine was. only two years old, and settled in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio. 544 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. After his marriage, David C. Steiner settled on the Markley farm of eighty acres, three miles east of Pandora, where he has lived ever since. He was always engaged in general farming and has been successful in this vocation. Mr. and Mrs. David C. Steiner have eleven children, three of whom are deceased, Elma DeUa, the wife of Doctor Nicewander, of Bluffton, Ohio, who has one daughter, Eleanor; Lennis Gilbert, who married Hulda Schuh- macher and lives in Pandora; Hulda Viola, who died at the age of two years ; Homer Arthur, who died at the age of one year ; Frances Ellen, who died at the age of one month; Elvina Ruth, who is a student in high school; Sjisie Amelia, who is also a student in high school ; Edith Gertrude, Lillian Grace, Wilma Catherine and Marguerite Madeline, all of whom are stu- dents in the graded school. Mr. Steiner is a Democrat. He is a member of the Grace Mennonite ■church, while his wife is affiliated with the Missionary church. David C. .Steiner is a clean-cut, progressive farmer and citizen. He owns a beautiful farm, on which he has erected a modern house. He is a man who is well respected and is possessed of high ideals, a worthy example to young men who are hesitating at the beginning of their careers as to what course they will follow. ARCHIE A. SLAYBAUGH. The whole career of Archie A. Slaybaugh, covering a little more than two score years, has been spent in Putnam county, Ohio. When only six- teen years of age, he began to teach school, and after two years' service as a teacher, he beg'an the study of law, and since his admission to the bar, in the fall of 1896, he has been actively engaged in the practice of his pro- fession. He has held various official positions and is now prosecuting attor- ney of Putnam county, a position to which he was elected in the fall of 1912. Archie A. Slaybaugh, the son of Thomas C. and Emma J. (Miller) Slaybaugh, was born on, September 2, 1874, at West Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio. Both of his parents were born in Pennsylvania, his father being a son of John Slaybaugh and wife, who came from Pennsylvania, to Shelby county, Ohio, early in its history. Emma J. Miller, the mother of Mr. Slaybaugh, came to Gilboa, in Putnam county, with her parents when she -was five years of age. Her father, David Miller, was a tanner for many ARCHIE A. sr.AYr.AT'(;n. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 545 years, and spent his declining years in West Leipsic, where his death oc- curred. Thomas C. Slaybaugh was a soldier in Company B, Benton Cadets, a Missouri regiment, and was at the front for nearly three years. After the •expiration of his first term of enlistment, he re-enlisted in another company and served until the close of the war. He was twice married, his first wife dying in Shelby county a short time before he located in Putnam county, in 1872. There was one daughter, Mrs. Lizzie Henderson, , born to this first marriage, and she is now living in Rossford, Ohio, where her husband is the chief engineer of the Ford plate glass works. By his second marriage, with Emma J. Miller, there were born three children, A. A., of Leipsic; Mrs. Lola Rehfeldt, of Toledo, Ohio, and Wiley A., of Toledo. Thomas C. Slaybaugh was a carpenter by trade. Later he became a finished of D handles, and, in 1880, went to Edgerton, Ohio, where he worked for four years. He moved back to West Leipsic in 1884, and lived there until August, 1913. His wife died on September 30, 1909, and he is now living at Toledo with his daughter, Mrs. Rehfeldt. Archie A. Slaybaugh was reared at West Leipsic and attended the normal school at that place when it was under the charge of L L. Harmon. When only sixteen years of age he secured a teacher's license and taught for two years in this county, teaching his first term at Miller City, in 1891. He began reading law with T. W. Prentiss, of Leipsic, in June, 1893, and in October, 1896, was admitted to the Putnam county bar. He has since been in the active practice of his profession at Leipsic. He is active in the councils of the Democratic party, and from 1900 to 1902, was mayor of Leipsic. He was solicitor of the village from 1902 to 1912, and on January I, 191 4, again took charge of the same office. He was a member of the board of education from January i, 1910, to January i, 1913, when he resigned to take his present office as prosecuting attorney of Putnam county, to which he had been elected in November of the preceding year. He is now discharging the duties of prosecuting attorney in a manner that shows he has a firm grasp of the law, as well as those qualities of good judgment and impartiality which should characterize the successful prosecutor. Mr. Slaybaugh was married on June 9, 1901, to Emily Bradley who was born at Kalida, this county, and is a daughter of Patterson and Emily (Turpenmg) Bradley. Her father, now deceased, was a farmer in early life and later was a dealer in horses. He was of Irish parentage and was a soldier m the Civil War, coming to Putnam county and locating at Kalida 35 546 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. after its close, where he spent the rest of his days. Mr. and Mrs. Slay- baugh have two children, Gordon Maxwell and Helen Louise. The family are members of the Church of Christ at Leipsic, while fraternally, Mr. Slaybaugh is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. THOMAS JEFFERSON BAKER. A prosperous -farmer of Van Buren township, Putnam county, Ohio, is Thomas Jefferson Baker, where he has been a resident for many years. Mr. Baker has met with many discouragements in his life, yet despite the many obstacles which he has met along life's pathway, he has maintained a cheerful spirit. He has made several trips to California, where he has always succeeded in recouping his losses in Putnam county, in various ways. He and his wife have reared a family of children and have given them all excellent educations. Thomas J. Baker, the son of George Adam and Margaret (Weeks) Baker, was born near Van Buren, Hancock county, Ohio, August 27, 1847. His father was born in 1822, in Fairfield county, Ohio, a son of Charles. Baker and wife. Charles Baker was a native of Ohio and moved from Fairfield to Hancock county in its early history and entered government land, on which he lived until his death. Charles Baker owned three hundred and sixty acres of land, at the time of his death, and each of his five children received sixty acres from their father's estate. Charles Baker and wife reared five children, Hannah, the wife of Samuel Koggy; George Adam, the father of Thomas J. Baker; Solomon, Betsy, the wife of Stevert Warner, and one daughter who died in infancy. Charles Baker lost his first wife when the children were very young and he later married, but only lived nine months after his second marriage, leav- ing his children orphans. At that time, George Adam Baker was onljr nine years of age and he, and the rest of the children, were bound out until they should become of age. George went to live with a German family in Fairfield county, and in this way learned to speak German. He- was taught the plasterer's trade and when a young man of nineteen, mar- ried Margaret Weeks, of Fairfield county. She was the daughter of Nathan and Barbara (Corfman) Wrecks, and was born in 1822, and died on September 5, 1913, at the age of ninety-one. George Adam Baker and wife were the parents of twelve children,. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. [-47 Hannah, who first married Cephus Gribble, and had five children, and after her first husband's death, married Willis Decker, and had one child by her second marriage; Solomon, who married Amanda Lehr, and had six children; Nathan, who married Fromy Miller; Thomas J., with whom this narrative deals; Almeda, the wife of Steward Skinner, and the mother of four children; Benjamin, who married Seena Busong, and has two children, one deceased; George, who married Mary Warner, and has five children; Mahssa, who married John OverhoU, and had two children, one dying in infancy; Elmira, deceased, who was the wife of Louis Roberts, deceased, and the mother of two children; Ella, the wife of Ernest New- man, and the mother of one child, who died in infancy; Clemmie, who married Kate Kisel, and has nine children ; William, deceased. George Adam Baker moved back to Hancock county, after his mar- riage, and located on the old home place near Van Buren. He had sixty acres which he inherited from his father's estate, after which he bought the share of property belonging to his brother, Solomon, which gave him a farm of one hundred and twenty acres. On this he lived the remainder of his life, dying at the age of forty-seven, in 1869. He was a man highly esteemed in his community and was always concerned in every movement which promised to better the locality in which he lived. Thomas J. Baker was educated in the common schools of his boyhood days and helped his father on the old homestead farm, in Hancock county, until he was about twenty-three years of age. He then took a trip to California, where he worked on a ranch and served as a "Buck Ayr." He remained in California a year and then returned to his home in Hancock county, where he worked out by the month 'until he was twenty-nine years of age. He then married, and immediately after his marriage, moved to Van Buren township, Putnam county, Ohio, and located on an eighty-acre farm four miles east of Leipsic. He had bought this farm prior to his marriage, and at the time he moved upon it, there was only twelve acres cleared. He struggled along on the farm for two or three years, but not bemg able to make much money, he decided to go "out West," where he felt that he could get good wages. He left his little family with his wife's parents and went to California, where he again worked for the same man who had employed him on his first trip to that state. He made -ood wages and returned home with nearly enough money to pay for his firm He remamed on the farm for several years, but his house burning down caused him a loss of sixteen hundred dollars. Again he decided that he would go to California and try to make enough money to pay off his debt 548 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. and build a new home. He made the trip the third time and was again successful and returned with enough money to start in life anew under favorable circumstances, and he has since made his home on the farm, and, in addition to general farming, he has been very successful in raising fruit and poultry. He is an extensive poultry raiser and derives no small part of his income from the sale of this product. A very interesting story is apropos at this point. It seems that when George Adam Baker, father of Thomas J., came to Ohio, that they had no chickens, so they bought a hen and chickens from a neighbor. When these chickens became large enough to crow, it seemed that they did not know how. An Irish friend explained that the reason why they did not crow, was because they did not know how. There were no other roosters in the neighborhood and the young cockerels had never heard one of their kind crow. The Irishman volunteered to teach them this art, and each morning he went out early, clapped his hands, hopped on top of a chicken coop and crowed. Strange as it may seem, the Irishman taught the young roosters how to crow, and thus the chicken industry started in the Baker family. Mr. Baker married Jennie Walker, a daughter of Abraham and Mary Walker. She was born in Wood county, Ohio, July 25, 1851, and died April 1, 1908. Her parents were natives of New Jersey. To this union five children have been born, Nathan, who is a resident of Phoenix, Ari- zona; Alva A., who married Loua Eastman, and lives at Carmangay, Alberta, Canada; William B., who married Lulu Pendleton, farming the home farm; Ira E., who married Nona Pendleton, and makes his home in Cleveland, Ohio; Charles E., married Miss Alta Cinder. Mr. Baker is a Democrat in politics, but has never been active in the councils of his party. He has taken a great interest in the education of his children, and has seen them all receive excellent training in the public and normal schools, as well as the universities of Ohio and Indiana. After graduating from the Leipsic high school, Alva later attended the Tri-State College at Angola, Indiana. Nathan was a student in the Ohio State Uni- versity at Columbus. Ira graduated from the Ottawa Business College, while Charles E. is a graduate in music. Mrs. Baker was a member of the Evangelical church, while Mr. Baker is affiliated with the United Brethren denomination. Mr. Baker is a man of genial impulses, kindly disposition and highly esteemed in the neighborhood where he has made his home so many years. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 549 CLEMENT C. RIMER. Clement C. Rimer, for many years, has been closely identified with the history of Putnam county, Ohio. He is one of the brilliant young attorneys of Columbus Grove, and, throughout his life, has been active in behalf of all worthy public enterprises. He has already achieved a splendid measure of professional success, his years of conscientious work as a lawyer having brought him increasing practice and reputation. By a straightforward, hon- orable course, Mr. Rimer has built up a large and lucrative legal business. His life is a splendid example of what an American youth, endowed with common sense, energy and determination, can accomplish. He has achieved a splendid record at the bar at an age when most men are merely starting on their life work. He has been intensely methodical and unswervingly per- sistent in search of legal essentials. Success could not help crowning his efforts and attracting to him public recognition and appreciation. Clement C. Rimer was born on December 12, 1874, about one mile southwest of Columbus Grove, Pleasant township. He is a son of James and Lucinda (Nichols) Rimer. James Rimer was born on April 13, 1845, about three-quarters of a mile northwest of Kalida, in Union township. He, in turn, is the son of Jeremiah R. and Lucinda (Sarber) Rimer. It is an interesting fact that the first court held in Putnam county was held at the home of Abram Sarber, a great uncle of Clement C. Rimer. Here the organization was perfected for erecting the first Putnam county court house, at Kalida. Abram Sarber was also the first township clerk in Putnam county. A brother, Adam Sarber, was one of the three first township trustees in this county. Jeremiah Rimer, the grandfather of Clement C. Rimer, was a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, born on January 23, 1820. He was the son of Daniel and Catherine (Vandemarke) Rimer, the former of whom was born on September 11, 1789, in Pennsylvania, and the latter of whom was a native of Pennsylvania, born there on September 13, 1785. Jeremiah Rimer came to Putnam county, Ohio, in 1832, with his parents, who settled on a farm in Union township. He was a life-long farmer. Jeremiah was twice mar- ried, first to Lucinda Sarber, September 19, 1841. She was a native of Franklin county, Ohio, born there on November 25, 1819, and a daughter of Adam and Catherine (Ensden) Sarber. Her parents settled in Putnam county in 1834. Two children were born by this marriage, Catherine and James. His wife died on April 26, 1845, when her son James was only 550' PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. thirteen days old. Jeremiah Rimer was again married on November 5, 1846, to Ehza Jane, the daughter of James and MilHson (Watson) Cunningham. Seven children were born by this marriage, Albert was born on May 10, 1848, and served five months in the Civil War, in the One Hundred and Ninety-seventh Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry; William was born on December 2, 1850; John M. was born on October 9, 1852; Minor D. was born on August 6, 1855; Lucinda J. was born on August 31, 1857; Thomas C. was born on May 8, i860, and Mary M. was born in January, 1867. Shortly after his second marriage, Jeremiah came to Columbus Grove, Ohio, and lived here two years when he again moved to a farm in Sugar Creek township. He farmed this until 1876, when he sold it and purchased a forty-acre tract in Pleasant township, where he farmed for some time. Subsequently, he sold out and moved back to Columbus Grove, where he spent his remaining days. Jeremiah was a Democrat and, although not active, was called upon to serve as trustee of Sugar Creek township for two terms. He was also infirmary director for several years and a member of the school board. In his earlier days, he was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, at Ottawa, Ohio. He was a deacon and active at the time of his death in the New School Baptist church. He died on February 2, 1894. James Rimer, the father of Clement C, spent his boyhood days on the homestead farm in Sugar Creek township. He left home in 1864 to learn the carpenter trade at Columbus Grove. Aside from one year spent at his trade at Belle fontaine, Ohio, he has been actively engaged in his trade at Columbus Grove since that time. He was married on November 23, 1865, to Lucinda Nichols, daughter of Edward and Margaret (Erwin) Nichols. Edward Nichols was born in Licking County, Ohio, July 4, 1824, and was a life-long farmer. He came to Union township, Putnam county, Ohio, with his parents, when he was twelve years old. He died on May 3, 1863, at the age of thirty-nine. His wife, Margaret (Erwin) Nichols, was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, February 17, 1818, and died on the home- stead farm in Union township on October 2, 1893, at the age of seventy- five. Edward Nichols and wife had ten children: Mrs. Martha Holt, of Columbus Grove; Lucinda, who was born in Pleasant township, October 8, 1846, and who spent her childhood days in Union township; Joseph lives in Paulding county ; Mrs. Anna Best lives in Union township ; Amos also lives in Union township; Mrs. Hetty Martin lives at Dundee, Michigan; the sev- enth child died in infancy; Mrs. Jane Anderson lives at Marion, Indiana; PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 551 Mrs. Hannah Spratt lives in Wood county, Ohio; Edward died at the age of four years. To Mr. and Mrs. James Rimer five children have been born. One died in infancy; Mrs. Louis Miller lives in Columbus Grove; Mrs. John Davis lives at Lima, Ohio; Clement C. is the subject of this sketch; Emory lives at Whitehouse, Ohio. James Rimer is considered a master mechanic at his trade. He has erected many edifices in Putnam county which are still standing as an evi- dence of his good work. Previous to his coming to Columbus Grove in 1895, he farmed a small tract in Union township, but followed his present trade, likewise. He owns property in Columbus Grove and is still active as a carpenter. He is a member of Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge No. 464, at Columbus Grove. He served six years as trustee of Union town- ship, from 1889 to 1895. Foi" several years he was a school director and was for one term a member of the town council. He is not active in politics at this time. He is a member of the Presbyterian church where he is an active elder. For many years he was a trustee of the church, but' he has not been active for the past six years. All the family are Presbyterians. Clement C. Rimer spent his boyhood days in Columbus Grove and on the homestead farm. He was educated in the township schools and in the Colum- bus Grove high school. He spent one year, 1892- 1893, ^^ Ada College and taught school in the township for three years after leaving Ada, attending the summer terms there while teaching. He began reading law under W. C. Tingle and completed the study in the law offices of S. Sanders, of Colum- bus Grove. Mr. Rimer was admitted to the bar in June, 1902, and immedi- ately opened a law office at Columbus Grove, where he is now active and where he is one of the leading attorneys of the town. He became solicitor of the village, after passing the bar examination, and holds this, office at the present time. He was elected justice of the peace, at the age of twenty-one, and served six yars. He was also township clerk for about eight years and filled both offices with credit to himself and to the township and the town. He is now legal adviser to the school board and holds other important posi- tions of responsibility. Mr. Rimer was married on June 24, 1897, to Miss Ida Swanger, daugh- ter of John and Leah (Kissell) Swanger. To this union three children have teen born, Gladys, Helen and Ruth, who are all at home. Mr. Rimer has always been an active Democrat. He took a strenuous part during Bryan's first campaign, having been called upon to take the stump for that distinguished politician at the age of twenty-one years. He has 552 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. been a vital factor in all the campaigns since that time and has always responded to his party's call, working hard for victory. He has stumped Putnam and other counties, having been sent out by the state committee. Mr. Rimer is a member of the Knights of Pythias, though not active at the present time. He and his family are members of the Presbyterian church. Clement C. Rimer is a pleasing young man with a quiet, unassuming manner, frank in all his business dealings and a man well liked in the community for his tenacity of purpose and high ideals. JOHN DONALDSON. Among the prosperous farmers of Putnam county who have built up comfortable homes and surrounded themselves with the comforts of life, none has attained a higher degree of success than John Donaldson, of Mon- roe township, Putnam county. With few opportunities, except what his own efforts and those of his wife were capable of mastering, and with many difficulties to overcome, he has made a success of life, and in so doing has earned the universal respect and esteem of all with whom he has come in contact. He is a man of tireless energy and' strong courage, and a man whose career shows that he is an able and conscientious worker. As a citizen, he has been public-spirited and enterprising to an exceptional degree; as a friend and neighbor, he has combined those qualities of head and heart which have won confidence and commanded respect. His life is a splendid example of what an American youth, plentifully endowed with common sense and determination, can accomplish. John Donaldson was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, August 20, 1850, the son of Aaron and Sarah A. (Swayze) Donaldson, the former of' whom was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, in 18 10, and the latter born in the same county, December 20, 1827. Aaron Donaldson was the son of John Donald- son, who was born in Maryland, in 1784, and who came with his father to Ohio, about 1805. John Donaldson married Mary Grubb, in 1809. He was a captain in the War of 18 12, a Democrat in politics, and, for twenty- one years, a justice of the peace in his township. He died at the age of sixty-four years. His wife was born in 1790, and died at the age of eighty- two. The children of John and Mary Donaldson were as follow: Aaron Elizabeth, Letta, Sarah, Mary, Serena, John, Thirza, Cantha, Malinda^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 553; Lavina, Jacob, William and Henry. The children of Aaron and Sarah A. Donaldson were Owen, born on June 22, 1849, who lives at Dupont, Ohio; John, the subject of this sketch; Rosalie, born on October 4, 1852, married a Mr. Shiver and lives in Monroe township; Aaron, born on December 13, 1854, died in 1910; Jacob S., born on January 31, 1857, lives in Michigan;. Hester Ann, born on June 17, 1859, deceased; Ira, born on May 30, 1861,, who is a farmer in Monroe township; Asa, born on September 26, 1863, who lives in Continental, where he is a rural mail carrier and owns a farm in Monroe township; William, born on March 14, 1866, who lives on a farm in Greensburg township. John Donaldson was reared on the farm and educated in the public schools of Ohio. Early in life, he learned the carpenter's trade, although he never devoted much time or attention to his skill in this direction, except to- erect his own buildings and what assistance he gave the neighbors when needed. Mr. Donaldson was married on October 27, 1872, to Mary A. Wood,, born on July i, 1850, in Perry county, Ohio, and the daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Yarger) Wood. The parents of Mrs. Donaldson were married in Perry county, where Joseph Wood was a farmer. The Wood family removed to Putnam county in 1862, and became prominently identified witlt the agricultural interests of this section of the state of Ohio. Joseph Wood- was a Jacksonian Democrat. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. John Donaldson,, Chester H., a rural mail carrier, of Continental, Ohio, who married Belle McKibbens, and has three children, Madge, Beatrice and Ruth; Cora M., who married William Moorehead, a farmer of Monroe township, and has two children, Paul and Erma; Alma L., who married Delbert Rockey, a farmer of Monroe township, and has one child, Ray; Harvey C, a farmer of Monroe township, who married Gertrude Hall and has four children, Zola, deceased; Dathia, Walter and Gale; Lillie B., deceased; Mary A., who- married Mallie Daub and has one daughter, Maxine; and Lester, who is- deceased. Mr. Donaldson's father, Aaron Donaldson, died on September 24, 1880, and his mother, who was born on December 20, 1827, died in the sprino- of 191 1, at the age of eighty- four years. John Donaldson has been identified with the agricultural interests of Monroe township for many years. He has lived upon the farm, which he now occupies, practically the entire time since his marriage. The farm originally comprised eighty acres, but Mr. Donaldson has added forty acres- 554 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. more to this farm, four acres being consumed in railroad property. His son, Harvy C, now lives upon the farm of eighty acres, went in partnership Avith his father, and has built a new home, which is one of the finest in the township. Much of Mr. Donaldson's land has been cleared, drained and improved by his own efforts. He is a good farmer and bears an exceptional reputation throughout Monroe township, where he is so well known. Mr. Donaldson was formerly a Democrat of the Jacksonian type, and has always taken an active interest in political matters. He has been a stanch ■member of the Socialist party since 1900. Mr. Donaldson has attended the Christian church and contributes to the support of this church He was formerly a member of the Grange, but this organization is no longer in existence. Not only is John Donaldson a good farmer, but he is a man ■esteemed for his upright character. He is a lover of his home, a kind father irugal and saving m his habits, yet, progressive in all of his ideas WILLIAM N. CURTIS. It IS a well-recognized fact that the most powerful influence in shaping and controlling public life is the press. It reaches a greater number of peo- ple than any other agency, and thus has always been, and, in the hands of persons competent to direct it, always will be a most important factor in molding public opinion and in shaping the destiny of the nation. The gentle- man, to a brief review of whose life these lines are devoted, is commonly con- nected with the journalism of Putnam county, and at this time is the editor and publisher of the Kalida Record, at Kalida, Ohio, one of the most popu- lar papers of Putnam county, comparing favorably with the best local news- papers m this section of the state in news, editorial ability and mechanical -execution. William N. Curtis, the editor of the Kalida Record, was born on May Y' 'f^''"" ^' ?°y' New York. He is the son of Horace and Catherine (iaate) Curtis, both of whom are natives of New York state. Horace Curtis was engaged in the lumber business at Le Roy with his brother Stephen, and established one of the first packing houses in New York state, in conjunction with the lumber industry. They also dealt exten sively m hides. Horace Curtis lived in Le Roy until his death. His widow still lives there with two daughters, Mildred and Beatrice. William N. Curtis was educated in the public schools of Le Roy At PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 555 the age of fifteen he was apprenticed as a prmter. After learning this trade, he worked at various places. He came to Kalida in 1910, and purchased the Kalida Record, which he has developed into one of the most substantial and authoritative weeklies in Putnam county. It is independent in politics and stands fearlessly for the best interests of the community. Its circulation has grown very much under the management of Mr. Curtis. WilHam W. Curtis was married in December, 1892, to Daisy M. Tomp- kins, of Pavilion, New York. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Tompkins, of that place. W. H. Tompkins is a prominent farmer and mer- chant of Pavilion. To this happy marriage one child, Carl, has been born, in 1895. He has also learned the printer's trade and works for his father. He confines his attention to the reportorial end of the newspaper. Mr. Curtis does a big job printing business and also does printing for many theatrical and show companies, which has earned for him the title of "Curtis, the Show Printer." Likewise Mr. Curtis is referred to as "Curtis, the Square Deal Printer." Since coming to Putnam county, and establishing himself in business at Kalida, Mr. Curtis has built up an enviable reputation in this community. He is honored and respected by all of the citizens and thoroughly merits their esteem. HARRY L. HOFFMAN. Among the younger business men of Leipsic, is Harry L. Hoffman, the popular proprietor of a model drug store, who has a well-established repu- tation for integrity and square dealing, and who displays business acumen to a marked degree. He has already made a success of life, and the future promises to be very bright for this young man. Mr. Hoffman was born on October 25, 1886, in Bluffton, Allen county, Ohio, and is the son of Thomas J. and Emma (Ludwig) Hoffman, who are the parents of the following seven children : Harry L., Mrs. Callie Crawfis, of Leipsic; Clara, at home; May, at home; Frank teaches school at Bradner, Ohio ; Clarence is a clerk in the Leipsic postoffice, and Charles lives at home. A native of Burwick, Seneca county, Ohio, Thomas J. Hoffman was born on January 26, 1852, the son of George W. and Lydia (Anderson) Hoffman, the former of whom was born in Fredericktown, Maryland, in 1820, and died in 1894. The latter was born in Wyandot county, Ohio, and died in i860. George W. Hoffman came with his parents to Seneca 55" PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. county, Ohio, when he was eight years of age, and settled in Putnam county on January i, 1864. He was a farmer and fruit grower, who found suc- cess, as a result of hard work. His son, Thomas, was educated in the com- mon schools of Leipsic and, in 1871, began clerking for S. Young, continu- ing so for nme years. Two more years he clerked and then entered the gen- eral msurance business, which he followed for about three years, at the same time selhng sewing machines. At the end of this period he entered the poultiy busmess and became manager of the West Leipsic Poultry Com- pany, which position he retained for twelve years. During the last few years he has been engaged in the buying, selling, and shipping of poultry _ Thomas Hoffman is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, and m politics, he IS an active Democrat, having been appointed a justice of the peace^a member of the school board, and presiding judge on the election board. He IS a progressive, enterprising man who holds an enviable posi- tion m his community. • The mother of Harry L. Hoffman is a native of Bloomsbufg, Pennsyl- vania, and was born on September 12, 1857, the daughter of John Ludwig a native of Bluffton, Ohio. Emma Ludwig came to Bluffton when she was one year old. Her father was a successful farmer, and he died at the ripe age of eighty years at the home of his son-in-law, Thomas Hoffman The boyhood days of Harry Hoffman were spent in Putnam county He graduated from the Leipsic high school in 1904, and in 1909 he gradu- ated from the Ada College of Pharmacy. Mr. Hoffman passed the exami- nation of the Ohio state board of pharmacy in 1910, and became a regis- tered^pharmacist, after which time he traveled as salesman for one vear for the Toledo Pharmacal Company. Then he came to Leipsic and bought of M ^'«"''" '''■°*''' *' ^™^ '*°'" ^"°^" ^' *^ D- S. Schweister stand. Mr. Hoffman carries a full line of drugs, stationery and sundries, and well deserves the liberal patronage which is accorded him. Mr Hoffman married Ethel Johnson, of Xenia, Greene county, Ohio on October 4, 191 1, and to the union one child has been born, Ellenore P .. ' ,^''*'''""^ ^'^^- ^'- Hoffman is a member of the Knights of Pythias affiliating with the Leipsic lodge. His college fraternity was Theta Nu Epsilon, and he belonged to the Omicon-Omicon chapter of Ada, Ohio. As do the others of his family, Mr. Hoffman belongs to the Methodist Evangelical church. With splendid ideals, an active and receptive mind, and with a full understanding of his business, Mr. Hoffman stands as a very creditable representative of the newer element in American business. Mr Hoffman s wmnmg personality has won him a host of friends, who fully appreciate the sterling virtues which are embodied in him. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 557 WILLIAM BORGELT. The gentleman of whom the biographer now writes is widely known and one of the honored citizens of Pleasant township, Putnam county, Ohio. For more than half a century he has lived in this county and has been a valued factor in the development of the same, and prominently identified with the various interests of his community. His well-directed energies, in the prac- tical affairs of hfe, his capable management of his own business interests, and his sound judgment, have demonstrated what may be accomplished by the man of energy and ambition, who, persevering often in the face of seem- ingly insurmountable obstacles, proves that he is the possessor of those quali- ties which never fail to bring success, if properly directed. Mr. Borgelt is, in every respect, a representative citizen of Pleasant township. William Borgelt was born on March 4, 1861, in Ottawa township, Put- nam county, Ohio. He is the son of William and Tracy (Slater) Borgelt. A complete parental history of Mr. Borgelt appears elsewhere in this volume in the life history of Herman Borgelt, a brother of William. William Borgelt spent his boyhood days on the home farm in Ottawa township, Putnam county, just north of his present farm. He was educated in the public schools of this township and assisted his father on the farm until his marriage. Mr. Borgelt was married in November, 1887, to Mary Nartker, the daughter of Ferdinand and Mary (Feltman) Nartker. To this happy union, two children, Fred and Albert, have been born, both of whom are at home. Two years after Mr. Borgelt's marriage, he removed to his present farm. He first purchased twenty acres, all green and brush land. This land was cleared and ditched and many improvements were made upon it. Mr. Borgelt built his present residence and barn in 1905. He has a fine large barn and a modern home, all of which makes an ideal country place. Mr. Borgelt has added one hundred and eighty-five acres to his original twenty acres and is now farming two hundred and five acres, one hundred and twenty-five acres of which lies across the road in Union township. Eighty acres are in Pleasant township and here the buildings are situated. Mr. Borgelt is a member of the Knights of Columbus, at Ottawa, Ohio. He is a member of the Glandorf Catholic church as is also his fam- ily. They are devout members of this church and contribute liberally to its support. Mr. Borgelt is a stanch Democrat, although he has never been active in the councils of his party and has never held office. He is a plain, ^ood-natured man, a lover of his home and family and a hard worker. 55° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. He takes a great interest in his farm and stands high in the community as a progressive and enterprising citizen. He belongs to the great Germanic race which has given so many substantial citizens to this country, and especially to Putnam county, Ohio. Mr. Borgelt is possessed of all the good traits of this great race. HIRAM M. SUMMERS. Among those men of high personal attainment and exalted character who have reflected honor on Putnam county, and at the same time have attained a commendable position among "their fellow men is Hiram M Summers, a well-known lawyer and abstracter of Ottawa, Ohio. Hiram M Summers is a man, who, in every walk of life, has performed his full part' He has given his unreserved support to every movement in behalf of the welfare of the public and his daily life has been such as to earn the confi- dence and goodwill of his neighbors and fellow-townsmen. Mr. Summers has filled a large place in the ranks of active, energetic and public-spirited citizens of his day and generation. Hiram M Summers was born on April 26, 1865, at Kalida. He is^ the son of William Patrick and Mary (Martin) Summers, referred to later m this sketch. Hiram M. Summers grew up at Kalida, where he attended the normal schoo and where he received a splendid education. Subsequently, he tau^^ht school for nine years, eight years in Union township and one year at Con- tinental, where he had charge of the schools. He next came to Ottawa the county seat of Putnam county, and was for a time employed as a sales- man m a clothmg store. During this period he read law in the office of Krauss & Eastman and, on June 13, 1901, Mr. Summers was admitted to the Putnam county bar. Before that time, however, he made an abstract of titles of the real estate of Putnam county and engaged in this business in connection with the law. He has been in the real estate anc; h^x business and now practices law. He makes abstracts of title and has b.^ilt up a large and lucrative business in Putnam county especially. He hafbee^ for seven years a member of the school board of Ottawa and at tie present time IS vice-president of the same, . On August 25^ 1889, Mr. Summers was married to Clara Matheney who was born at Kahda, and who is the daughter of Samuel and Adelia' (Rogers) Matheney. Mrs. Summers' parents became pioneer settler at PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 559. Kalida in an early day. Her father was a farmer and stock dealer at Kalida for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Summers have five children, Verner is at Akron where he is a bookkeeper. He married a Miss Austegen; Gladys was married on August 25, 1914, to Stewart S. Robinalt, a druggist of Ottawa; William lives at Ottawa. He graduated from Ottawa high school. and, subsequently, attended business college. He is employed in the drug store with his brother-in-law, Stewart S. Robinalt. Clara and Helen are. at home. Mr. Summers is a Democrat. During all his life he has been influential in the councils of that party. He is a member of the county central com- mittee and the county executive committee of his party, and was mayor of Ottawa for seven years, 1900 to 1907. Mr. Summers has also served in the Ottawa council and held other minor positions. He owns a consid- erable amount of farm land, a part of which is in Riley township and part . of which is in Hancock county. Mr. Summers is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons. He was the master of the Ottawa lodge for two years. William Patrick Summers, the father of Hiram M., was born in County Clare, Ireland, and was the son of Thomas and Katherine (Cotter) Sum- mers, the former a native of County Clare and the latter a native of Count}^ Limerick, born on April 5, 1824. He was a contractor. William Patrick Summers was educated in Ireland and was sent to school to learn Gaelic" which he mastered. He attended the private and also the great national school. At the age of fifteen, he ran away to sea and shipped from Lim- erick as an apprentice on the "Barbara Allen." He made a voyage in the Mediterranean and followed the sea for fourteen years, off and on. He visited almost every country on the globe. While in the Mediterranean sea. the ship upon which he was making the voyage, stuck in the sands on the coast of Greece and was rescued by a Turkish man of war. While in New York, in 1849, William Patrick Summers sailed for California by way of the Horn. They were six months in making the voyage. They landed in San Francisco late in the year 1849. He remained there for six years and, in 1852, went to Australia. He was engaged in mining gold in that country for four years, when he returned to Calif otnia. About this time he joined the Masons, at Mud Springs, California. After he had remained for some time in that state. He re-embarked and again sailed around the Horn, shipping as third officer of the vessel. On this trip he was injured. Finally, they landed at Norfolk, Virginia, when Mr. Summers went to Ireland and visited his old home. After remaining there for fifteen days, he .560 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. returned to the United States, and settled in Sandusky city. He was mar- ried in Ireland and, on his return to America, his wife returned with him. They settled in Wyandotte county, and, after living there for some time, and also in Seneca county, they removed to Putnam county, settling in Kalida, where he became a ditch contractor. William Patrick Summers was deputy sheriff of Putnam county for six years, postmaster of Kalida for four and one-half years, and township clerk for eight years. He was also street commissioner and constable. The children of William Patrick Summers and wife are as follow: Kate and John, who are deceased ; William, also deceased ; the others are Ellen, Hiram, Ann, Katherine and Margaret. John married Rose Clevenger. He died in Putnam county; Ellen married George Powell, who is a school teacher at Continental; Anna married Wes Claypool, of Kahda; Katherine married Frank Edelbrock and they lived in Jackson township; Margaret is principal ■of the Gomer school; Michael, Thomas and John, brothers of William Pat- rick Summers, live at Delphos. Mr. Summers is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and is past master of the blue lodge at Kalida. He was first master of the Masonic lodge at Continental. CHARLES EUGENE WIGHT. It is by no means easy to describe within a comparatively few words the career of a man who has been eminently active as a farmer and a busi- ness man. Biography finds its justification, nevertheless, in recording the salient points of such a life history. Charles Eugene Wight, the subject of this sketch, is not only one of the substantial and well-known farmers of Monroe township, Putnam county, Ohio, where he is one of the foremost men in the business life of this township. Mr. Wight is at present the president of the Farmers State and Savings Bank, at Continental, Ohio, an institution which was organized on January 2,0, 191 4. Mr. Wight is not •only president of the bank, but has also served as a director since the bank was organized. Charles Eugene Wight was born on December 9, 1861, in Perry town- ship. Wood county, Ohio. It is now known as Bloomdale. Mr. Wight is the son of Reuben and Altha (Reichard) Wight. The grandfather of Charles E. Wight, Reuben Wight, whose wife was a Van Buren, was a native of New York state. Mrs. Wight was a distant WM'iWi'''l"" ' ', ' ' CHARLES E. WIGHT. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. egl relative of President Van Buren, and was also a native of New York state. They moved to Cleveland, Ohio, when that city was a mere hamlet and settled on a forty-acre tract of land, where the heart of the city is now situated. Reuben Wight died of cholera in 1830, during the plague of that year. Charles E. Wight's father, who was also Reuben Wight, was born in New York state, in April, 1828. He was reared a farmer, but also learned the carpenter's and painter's trades and followed them extensively. He was educated in the common schools and was a man of exceptional intelligence for his day. Reuben Wight, Jr., was married in 1852, in Lorain county, Ohio, to Altha Reichard, who was born in New York state in May, 1828. They hved in Lorain county for two years, and then moved to Wood county, where they spent nine years, returning to Lorain county, where he had a sixty-acre tract of land, which he farmed. They lived there until the death of his wife, in 1894. Four children were born to this marriage, Alice, who died at an early age; WilHam H., Who lives at Glen Elder, Mitchell county, Kansas; Charles Eugene, the subject of this sketch; and Edward, who lives in New Mexico. Both parents of Charles E. Wight were active members of the Baptist church. Since the death of his wife, Reuben Wight has remarried and now lives retired in Lorain county, Ohio. Charles E. Wight was married in Lorain county, March 12, 1884, to Emma Behner, who was born on July 10, 1866, at La Grange, Lorain county. She is the daughter of John and Lydia (Erasey) Behner. John Behner was married in Lorain county, Ohio, and later moved to Defiance county. He and his wife lived in different parts of Paulding and Putnam counties, Ohio. He at one time owned one-third interest in an extensive hoop, stave and bending company in Clinton, Illinois. He now lives at the home of Mr. Wight, and is retired. He has been a successful business man. He is a Prohibitionist. His wife was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. She died in 1912. They had three children, Emma, the wife of Mr. Wight; Nellie married John Tingle; and Mrs. Ida Miller. Charles E .Wight left Wood county, Ohio, with his parents at the age of two years, and moved to Lorain county. Here he grew up and was educated. He taught for two years and also farmed on his father's farm He was reared a farmer and remained on the farm until his marriage He attended the Western Reserve Normal College, where he took a normal course. He contmued to work on the farm until two years after his mar- riage, when he left his father to purchase a farm of forty acres in section ^o 36 ■^ ' 562 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. in Monroe township, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1886, to which he moved. The land was heavily timbered and swampy and only six acres were cleared, Mr. Wight cleared, fenced and drained the land and erected buildings. He improved the land in other ways. By buying and selling, he has added to- his original purchase until he has increased it to two hundred and two and one-half acres, which are well located and comprise the best land in the county. Mr. Wight has farmed this land continuously, where he still has his residence. To Mr. and Mrs. Wight have been born seven children, Susie, who was born on March 27, 1885; Alta, born on August 31, 1889; Florence, born on June 6, 1894; Harvey, born on August 23, 1898; Mark A., born on September 14, 1901 ; Carl, born on May 9, 1904; and Ruth Esther, .born on January 29, 1909. Susie was educated in the Continental (Ohio) schools and was graduated from the high school there. She is also a graduate of the School of Expression, at Ada, Ohio, and has taken a nor- mal course at Lima, Ohio. She taught, school for seven years in Monroe township, and also in Palmer township, and in Harding county, Ohio. She is now the bookkeeper in the Farmers' State and Savings Bank, at Continental. Alta has taken a music course at Ada, Ohio, and lives at home. Florence married Frank Cleves, who is a farmer in Monroe county. Harvey was graduated from a short course of agriculture at the Ohio State University at Columbus. He is living at home. The remainder of the children also live at home. Mr. Wight was one of the organizers of the Farmers' State and Savings Bank, at Continental. He was elected president at its organization, and re-elected to this office January 20, 191 5. He is also a director of the bank. He has been president of the Farmers' Mutual Telephone Company and was one of its organizers. At the last reorganization and incorporation of the telephone company, Mr. Wight was elected treasurer and director. He is a director of the Palmer Township Mutual Fire Insurance Association and has been a director of it for a number of years. He is president of, the Continental Horse Company, which office he has filled for a number of years. ^ Mr. Wight is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Hartsburg, Ohio. He has always taken an active interest in church work and was at one time class leader, steward and Sunday school superintendent. He is a trustee of the church at the present time. Mr. Wight and all the members of the family are identified with this church. Mr. Wight is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, at Continental, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at that place. He has passed all of the chairs twice in the latter lodge. Mr. Wight is independent in politics, has served as township PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. tQo trustee of Monroe township for two terms, but is not active at the present time. He has been connected with the school board of special district for about ten years. Charles E. Wight is a progressive citizen and a successful farmer and business man. He is a liberal-minded and active in all civic improvements. He is a keen, far-sighted man and a good "mixer" and is popular through- out this section of Putnam county. AUGUST KAHLE. The subject of this sketch is one of those strong, self-reliant and de- termined characters who are occasionally met with and who are of such a distinct type as to seem to be born leaders of their fellow-men. Not that Mr. Kahle courts that distinction, for he is entirely unassuming, but his great force of character and his zeal and energy, in whatever he under- takes, naturally places him at the head of the crowd, and he has been a potent factor in the development of Putnam county, where he has long maintained his home and where he is well known to all classes for his honorable and industrial life, in both private and public. The gentleman, whose name appears at the head of this review, was born in Riemsloh, Province of Hanover, Germany, March 2, 1851,' and is the son of Anton and Sophia (Dutting) Kahle, both natives of' Ger- many; the former was born in the town of Glandorf, the latter born in the town of Mille. Anton Kahle conducted a general store in the old country for the greater part of his life and died when August Kahle was a very young boy. To Mr. and Mrs. Anton Kahle were born seven chil- dren, August, Antonio, Clemens, deceased; Louisa, deceased; Charles, deceased, and two others who died in infancy. Of these children, August and Charles came to America in the year 1873 and, after landing in the city of New York, they decided to go to Cincinnati, where they remained a whde, then went to Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio. August returned to Cmcmnati and put in about four months' time there, then decided to go back to Glandorf, Ohio. On his return he remained in Glandorf and was employed by Frank Kahle, with whom he remained for six years After this, a partnership arrangement was made with Ignatius Kahle for the starting of a tile factory in Greensburg township, this county Sub- sequently, August bought out the interests of Ignatius Kahle, and con- 564 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. tinued the manufacture of tile for about seven years. Believing his possi- bilities would be greater in farming for a living, he made a trade for one hundred and twenty acres of land situated in Union township, Putnam county, and upon which he erected a number of splendid and commodious farm buildings. To this residential farm, where he now makes his home, were added three hundred and twenty acres more, one hundred and sixty of which is located in Jackson and eight acres in Greensburg township. Believing, also, in town lot investments, Mr. Kahle is now the owner of six lots in the town of Kalida, located near the site of St. Michael's Cath- olic church. August Kahle was married on April 28, 1885, to Magdalena Overmeyer, a daughter of Ferdinand and Dorothea (Wilberding) Overmeyer, natives of Germany, and where her father died. Mrs. Overmeyer, together with her son Arnold and Magdalena, came to this country and settled in Glan- dorf, Ohio, where Arnold became the husband of Mary Luhn, after which he engaged in the manufacturing of cigars, in Ottawa, Ohio. Arnold died about seventeen years ago, and the mother preceded him by about two years. To August Kahle and wife there were born the following named children: August, March 25, 1886; Ferdinand, April 30, 1887; Dorothea, July 16, 1888; Antonius, June 24, 1890, deceased; Leo, May 10, 1892; Magdalena, September 17, 1893; Anthony, March 22, 1895; Clemens, March 27, 1897; Louisa, February 15, 1899; Sophia (infant born), died 1901 ; Sophia and Antonio, twins, October 2, 1902; Mary, February 8, 1906, died in 191 1. Of these children, Ferdinand is married to Clemen- tina Bensman ; they have one child, Rudolph, and reside in Jackson township ; Dorothea is married to Frank Knueve, and they live in Union town- ship, having one child, Arnold; August, Jr.; Ferdinand and Dorothea attended the district schools in the neighborhood, while all the other chil- dren are now attending the parochial school belonging to St. Michael's church in Kalida, Ohio, and of which church the entire family are devout members. Personally, Mr. Kahle is a man of broad sympathies and takes an abiding interest in the welfare of those about him, and because of his genial disposition and 'high character, he enjoys a large popularity in the com- munity in which he has spent so many years. To Mrs. Kahle is due a word in aijpreciation of her devotion and solicitude for her husband and family at all times. She has proven herself a loyal wife and mother, and has even been a source of encouragement in all of her husband's under- takings, which have brought him to notice as a successful agriculturist. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 565 CHARLES WILFRED FOGLE, D. V S. Within the past quarter of a century there have been many veterinary colleges springing up over the United States and Canada. In this modern day, in practically every state in the Union, a veterinary surgeon must have a state board examination before he can practice his profession, and Ohio has as stringent qualifications as any state in the Union. The treatment of animal diseases has been placed on a scientific basis within the past few years, in such a way that the courses in veterinary colleges are as thorough and scientific in their nature as the courses in medical colleges. Liepsic, Ohio, has a veterinary surgeon in the person of Charles Wilfred Fogle, D. \ . S., who is a man of unusual attainments. Graduating with honors in a large class in 1907, he immediately came to Leipsic, where he has since been practicing his profession. He has already made a reputation for himself, which has extended far beyond the limits of his county. Charles W. Fogle, D. V. S., the son of B. C. and Rebecca Fogle, was born at Williamsburg, Kansas, October 28, 1886. His father was born in Brookville, Jefferson county, Pennsylvania, and his mother in Bedford county, in the same state. B. C. Fogle located in Kansas when a lad with his father, who entered government land there. However, they did not live long on the farm, but traded it for a store about three miles from the Sacs and Fox Indian Reservation. The father of D. C. Fogle did a large and flourishing business with the Indians and the town of Williamsburg was built up around his trading post. B. C. Fogle is now a hardware mer- chant in this place. Doctor Fogle was reared in Williamsburg, Kansas, and graduated from the high school in that place in 1905. He at once went to Toronto, Canada, and entered the Ontario Veterinary College, where he remained until he graduated in the spring of 1907. There were one hundred and fifty-seven in his graduating class and he received a gold medal for the highest and best average in his final examination. This is an exceptional honor and one for which all of the best students strive, and shows, in a marked way, the ability of Doctor Fogle. After his graduation he decided to locate in Ohio and passed the Ohio state board examination with a high average. He at once located in Leipsic, where he has since made his home. Doctor Fogle is a member of the Ohio Veterinary Medical Associa- tion, and is a member of the legislative committee of the association. He is also president of the Northwestern Ohio Veterinary Medical Associa- 5^^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. tion, secretary of the Northwestern Ohio Swine Breeders' Association and a member of the state board of veterinary examiners. He is president of the Leipsic Club, and has been a member of the Leipsic board of public affairs since 1908. Doctor Fogle takes an active part in the affairs of the Republican party, and is a member of the central committee at the present time He is an active worker in the Masonic lodge and is the senior warden of the Leipsic blue lodge, high priest of the Ottawa chapter, a member of the Ottawa council and of the commandery at Findlay, Ohio. In addition to his Masonic connections, he is also a member of the Knights of Pythias Doctor l^ogle IS a young, unmarried man, a recognized authority on the diseases of animals and is sure to make a name for himself in the years to come JOSEPH GERDEMAN. One of the young farmers of Union township, Putnam county Ohio who, for several years, has taken an active part in farmers' institute work' IS Joseph J. Gerdeman, the owner of a splendid farm of eighty-six acres in Umon township. Since moving to his present farm, Mr. Gerdeman has erected substantial buildings. Joseph J. Gerdeman was born in Ottawa township, Putnam county Ohio, December 25, 1875, and is a son of Mathias and Elizabeth (EUer- tw? ^^'■'^,^™^"- J°^^Ph J- Gerdeman's paternal grandparents were Mathias Gerdeman and his wife, pioneers of Glandorf, Putnam county Ohio, who were natives of the province of Hanover, Germany. Mathias Gerdeman and wife were the parents of the following children: Mathias who was born in Germany; Henry, Joseph, Jasper, John and two daugh- ters, whose names were Elizabeth and Catherine. Mathias Gerdeman and wife lived m Putnam county the rest of their lives. They were devout members of the Catholic church at Glandorf. The maternal grandparents of Joseph J. Gerdeman also came from Germany and were early settlers in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio. Mathias Gerdeman came from Germany with his parents when he was three years of age and settled near Glandorf, Putnam county, on a'farm in Greensburg township. He attended the school at Glandorf, and was here married to Elizabeth Ellerbrock. After his marriage, he settled on a farm in Ottawa township. He learned the carpenter trade and devoted his at- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 567 tention to this and to agriculture for thirty years. He Uved on his farm in Ottawa township until his death, which occurred in 1908, while his wife died in 1906. Mathias Gerdeman, Jr., and wife were the parents of the following children: Frank H., Fred, Joseph J., Mary Anna and Theresa, all of whom- are living with the exception of Mary Anna. Frank H. mar- ried Margaret Leise, and lives in Findlay, Ohio ; Fred married Mary Krein- brink, and Hves in Ottawa; Theresa became the wife of Joseph Herring- haus, and lives in Lima, Ohio; Anna married Andrew Ringlein, of Lima, Ohio. She died in August, 1914; Mary married Bernard Utrup, of Ottawa, where they still reside. Joseph J. Gerdeman was educated in the district schools of Ottawa township, and lived on his father's farm until he was twenty-five years of age. He had been married three years previously, on May 31, 1898, to Katherine Steffen, a daughter of John and Mary (Kink) Stefifen, who lived on a farm near Glandorf. John Stefifen was a soldier, during the Civil War, serving with distinction throughout that struggle. He and his wife were parents of the following children: EUzabeth, Anna, Katherine, Amelia, Gertrude, Martha, Frank, George and Lawrence. Elizabeth be- came the wife of Barney Niese, and lives at Liberty township; Anna is the wife of Joseph Klass, a farmer of Liberty township; Amelia is unmar- ried; Gertrude is the wife of Mathias Winsinger, and they live in Henry county, Ohio; Martha became the wife of David Shaw, and they live in Hancock county, Ohio; Frank is unmarried. George married Catherine Meyers, and they live on the home place; Lawrence is unmarried. After his marriage, Mr. Gerdeman lived for three years on his father's farm, when he moved to a farm in Union township, which consisted of eighty-six acres, and which he purchased. Here he erected substantial buildings, remodeled the house and made many other improvements and developed the land into a splendid farm. Joseph J. Gerdeman and wife are the parents of the following chil- dren: Cornelius, born on March 25, 1899; Martha E., born on July 3, 1900 ; Edwin, born on February 8, 1903 ; Lawrence, born on June 28, 1904 ; Mary, born on April 6, 1908; Catherine L., born on July 21, 1910; Lucille, born on October 10, 1911; Paul, born on September 6, 1912, and Richard, born on January 12, 1914. Mr. Gerdeman, in addition to farming, specializes in live stock on an ■extensive scale. He takes an active part in all stock shows. * ^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Gerdeman is a Democrat, while fraternally, he is a member of the Catholic Knights of Ohio. The Gerdeman family are all devout mem- bers of St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida. Mr. Gerdeman is presi- dent of the Mutual Telephone Company, and served Union township a& trustee for six years. EBENEZER CASTEEL. Among the farmers of Putnam county, Ohio, who have believed in twentieth-century methods, is Ebenezer Casteel, a retired farmer and business man, of Contmental, Putnam county, Ohio. Mr. Casteel comes from a splendid family and one that has always been strong for right living and industrious habits for education and morality-for all that contributes to- the welfare of the commonwealth. Such people are welcome in any com- munity. They are empire-builders and, as such, have pushed the frontier of civilization westward and onward, leaving the green, wide-reaching- wilderness and the ,far-stretching plains populous with contented people and beautiful with green fields. They have constituted that sterling horde which caused the great Bishop Whipple to write the memorable lines: "Westward the course of empire takes its way." Ebenezer Casteel was born on July 4, 1838, in Licking county Ohio He is the son of Thomas and Salome (Livingston) Casteel, the former of whom was born near Cincinnati, Ohio, and came to Licking county when a young man, and here was married. Thomas Casteel was reared a farmer and educated m the township schools. After faming for a time in Lick- ing county, he came to Putnam county in 1858, and settled on a farm of eighty acres in Liberty township. The land was wild and it was in the region north of the Black swamp. There were no roads and wolves could be seen frequently and heard most of the time. Mr. Casteel moved into a log cabm, abandoned by another family, and lived there for one vear while- he cleared the land and built a house. He farmed this land untifhis death at the age of seventy-seven years. His wife, who, before her marriao-e' was Salome Livingston, was a native of Licking county, Ohio, where she was reared. She died in Putnam county on the homestead farm To Mr and Mrs. Thomas Casteel eleven children were born, Andrew, who lives in Liberty township; Jeremiah, who also lives in this township; Ebenezer the subjectof this sketch; Eleanor, deceased; Lorenzo, who lives in Van Buren township; Mrs. Amanda Crooscr, of Belmore, Ohio; Mrs. Julia Dillon wha %; MR, AND MRS. EBENEZER CASTEEL. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 5691 lives in Liberty township: Thomas, of Behnore, Ohio; Elmira, deceased; John, who hves in Henry county, Ohio; and Mrs. Adehne Miley, of Milton City, Ohio. Thomas Casteel was a Democrat throughout his life. Ebenezer Casteel left Licking county, Ohio, at the age of nineteen, and came to Putnam county with his parents in 1858. He remained with them on the old farm in Liberty township, helping them with the farm work until the first call for volunteers in the Civil War, in 186 1. He enlisted in Company D, Twenty-first Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, April 21,, 1 86 1, and served three months. He then returned to the farm and lived here until the western fever took hold of him, when he went West for about one year. He, subsequently, returned to the old home place and- worked out by the month. He then married and moved to Belmore, Ohio, to live. Here he engaged in the operation of a general store, with Harrison Ensmmger. After one year, he traded his interest in the store for a strip of land in Van Buren township, Putnam county. He afterward traded this land for a farm near Belmore, and rented the same. In the meantime, Mr. Casteel was in partnership with the Speaker brothers, at Belmore, Ohio!- in conducting a general store, for two years. He afterward started a grocery store, adding dry goods and notions. He was in this store at Bel- more for sixteen years, when he moved to Continental, Ohio, in 1890, and was in business in that town for twenty years. Mr. Casteel traded his stock of goods for a farm and retired in 1909. He has owned several farms which he has sold and traded off until he now has one hundred and ten acres of good farming land near Continental, Ohio. His wife was a mil- liner before her marriage, and conducted a millinery store in Continental for about two years. After moving to town, a daughter, Flora, took charge of the store and is now operating it. Mrs. Casteel also had a store at Belmore Ohio, for some time. Mr. Casteel built his present store, where his daughter has her shop in operation. Mr. Casteel was married to Caroline Engle, a native of Logan county Ohio. To this union six children were born, two of whom are deceased' Those hving are, Flora, who is at home; Arthur, who is a railway mail clerk'- Mrs. Lola Wymer. of Continental, and Lulu, who is at home. Lola and Lula are twins. Mr. Casteel is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and has been for the past forty-eight years. He was a charter member of the lodge at Ottawa. He also belonged at Belmore and Continental. Throuoh- out h,s hfe, Mr. Ca.steel has been an active Democrat. He was treasurer of Belmore for a time and also assessor. He was treasurer of Continental 370 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. for one year. However, Mr. Casteel is not active in politics at the present time. Mrs. Casteel and her daughters are members of the Lutheran church at Continental, Ohio. Ebenezer Casteel is a man of excellent habits and a careful, conserva- tive and frugal man, who believes in laying up for a rainy day. He is a good father and a loving husband, careful in his business dealings and has accumulated a snug fortune. He is well known as a free thinker. DR. ETHELBERT WATTERSON. No other profession has accomplished during the last half-century the progress and development that has been made by the medical profession. The man of original thought and action, whose text books form but the basis of future work, has ever moved forward, taking the advantage of, and utilizing new discoveries in the sciences, and looking always for better methods, surer means to the desired end. Such a man is Dr. Ethelbert Wat- terson. In considering the character and career of this eminent member of the medical fraternity, the impartial observer will not only be disposed to rank him among the leading members of his profession in Putnam county, but also as one of those men of broad culture and mental ken, who have honored mankind in general. Throughout a long and busy life, replete with honor and success, he has been actuated by the highest motives, and to the practice of his profession he has brought rare skill and resource. His quick perception and almost intuitive judgment enable him to make a correct diagnosis, all that is necessary for proper treatment. He has always been a close student of the medical science, keeping in touch with the latest advances of investigators and discoverers, and has been uniformly successful in practice. Because of his high attainments and his exalted personal character, he is eminently entitled to inclusion in a work of this character. Dr. Ethelbert Watterson, the well-known physician of Continental, Ohio, was born on September 16, 1869, in Jackson township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of John and Margaret (Harper) Watterson, the former of whom was born near Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Watterson family is traceable from four brothers, of Scottish-Irish descent, who came from the Isle of Man, about 1750, and who settled at or near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From them are descended Henry Wat- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 571 terson, the journalist, of Louisville, and Bishop Watterson, of the Catholic church, of Columbus, Ohio. John Watterson was married in Pennsylvania to Margaret Harper, who was also born near Lancaster, Pennsylvania. They came to Columbus, Ohio, about 1851, and were there when the state house was built. In 1853, they came to Putnam county and entered gov- ernment land west of the Auglaize and near the line of Jackson township, in Jennings township. The government land at that time cost one dollar and twenty-five cents an acre. They settled in the woods in a log shanty and lived on deer meat and corn bread. Before they came here, John Wat- terson was a carpenter and cabinet maker, and the change was a hard life for him, but he cleared a little of the land, and then sold it, and bought land in Jackson township. About 1876, he purchased the farm in the forks of Hog Creek and the Auglaize river, and there he established his home, reared his family and lived until old age. He spent the rest of his days with his children. John Watterson was a farmer, but his main business was the carpen- ter's trade. He was a builder, and built a number of the school houses in Jackson township, and also in Jennings township. He was an apprentice to a cabinet maker at the age of nine years, and was an expert in all lines of work. He died before his eighty-fifth birthday. John Watterson was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, November 11, 1819, and was the son of Samuel and Lydia (Weeks) Watterson. Samuel Watterson was one of the four brothers heretofore referred to. He came to America at the age of sixteen, and grew to manhood in Chester county, Pennsylvania. He married Lydia Weeks in 1798, and they had five children, James, Mrs. Margaret Bromer, Ehza, Samuel and John. Samuel Watterson lived on his farm in Chester county, until in 1832, when he moved to Philadelphia and spent his declining years with a daughter. John Watterson, the father of Ethelbert Watterson, removed from Chester county to Columbia, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1847, and there worked five years in a machine shop. He was married to Margaret Harper, April 30, 1847. She was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, February 16, 1823. Her parents were Alexander and Margaret (Rigg) Harper, the former of whom was a native of Ireland, and a tanner by trade. His wife was a native of Pennsylvania. During the war of 1812, Samuel Watterson and Alexander Harper refused to forswear their allegiance to the King of England, and to become naturalized citizens of the United States. They -were sent to the interior of the state by the military authorities. 572 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. John and Margaret (Harper) Watterson had nine children as follow Rachel Ann, deceased; James Alexander, born on October 30 1850 deceased; Samuel, born on October 2, 1853, deceased; William Harper, borr^ on April 9, 1855, deceased; Clara J., born on December 30, 1856 married Wallace Vail, of Kalida, Ohio; George Owens, born on March 30 1859 lives m Kalida; Dr. John Davis, who lives at Kalida; Charles Sherman' born on May 6, 1865, deceased, and Dr. Ethelbert, born on September 16^ 1869, is the subject of this sketch. Mrs. Margaret (Harper) Watterson died on November 27 1894 She was a devout member of the Presbyterian church. Politically' John Wat- terson was a Democrat. He held several local offices, among which were those of justice of the peace, six years; township treasurer, several terms and township trustee for several years. Fraternally, he was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, No. 80, at Columbus Ohio Dr. Ethelbert Watterson, the subject of this sketch, grew up on the farm. He was educated in the public schools in Putnam county and sub- sequently attended the Tri-State Normal College, at Angola, Indiana. On September 16. before his sixteenth birthday, he began teaching at the Antioch school, three miles north of Ottoville. For twelve years he was a teacher three years at Antioch; three years at the Gott school, near Kalida- three years at Vaughnsville, and three years in West Leipsic In the spring of 1898, Doctor Watterson made a canvass for county auditor, and m the fall of 1898, entered the Ohio State Medical University at Columbus, graduating in April, 1902. He then located in Continental and began practicing his profession, which he has continued ever since ' ^Doctor Watterson was married in 1893, to Rose Gander, who was born m Sugar Creek township, and who is the daughter of John and Susan Garner) Gander. John Gander is descended from one of the early pioneer famdies m the southern part of Putnam county. His family settled south of Vaughnsville, not far from Gomer. in Allen county, but removed across the line mto Putnam county, before John Gander was married. The Gander family came from Virginia in an early day, and settled between Vaughns- vile and Columbus Grove. John Gander liyed in Columbus Grove a part nlle b "m ' w' "" ''' '''" "^'^ A-aughnsville. It was- at the latter P^ace where Mrs Watterson grew up. She attended the public schools at a^^^fdeTth '^ 1 ■ ^'^^^"-'^^'^ """^^^ ^°"^^^ ^' ^"^■°^^' ^"d-- She attended the public schools a part of the time, while Doctor Watterson was there, and it was there they became acquainted. She, too, engaged in teach- nig and taught three years near Vaughnsville. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 573 Doctor Watterson and wife had three children, Lelah Margaret, Flor- ■ence Mary and John Gaylen. Margaret is now a junior in Ohio State University. Florence graduated from the Continental high school and is now a student in the normal school. Mrs. Watterson died in 1913. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the Eastern Star Lodge, the Twentieth Century Club, and also the Pythian Sisters. She was espe- cially active in the Methodist church, living close to its teachings, a good wife who loved her children and reared them with a mother's devotion. Naturally, Doctor Watterson is a Democrat. He is active in the coun- cils of his party. For ten years he has been on the school board of Conti- nental, and is now president of the board. He was twice elected to the city council, but resigned during his second term. Doctor Watterson owns a home in Continental, and is thoroughly identified with all the civic, political and religious activities of the town. He belongs to the Methodist church, and is chairman of the board of stewards. He is a member of the Knights Templar, blue lodge, at Continental, chapter and council at Ottawa, and the Knights Templar at Defiance. He also belongs to the Knights of Pythias. He has been a Mason since he was twenty-one years old, having handed in his application before he was of age. JOSEPH A. UNVERFERTH. Putnam county has long been noted for its splendid type of farmers. In the early settlement of this part of Ohio, many Germans came and, with their native thrift and industry, soon prospered and today their •descendants form the bulwark of Putnam county's citizenship. Among the many well-known Germans descended from the early German pioneers, is Joseph Unverferth. Joseph Unverferth was born in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, March 11, 1869. He is the son of Anthony and Theresa (Tenwealde) Unver- ferth, who were well-known residents of Glandorf. Anthony Unverferth, the father of Joseph Unverferth, when two and one-half years of age, was brought to this country by his parents from Hanover, Germany. They settled in Glandorf, Putnam county, which had been settled some years before by the renowned Father Horstman and a band of German colonists. The Unverferth family here settled on a farm and, amid the splendid surroundings of this little community. Anthony 574 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Unverferth grew up. His early life was spent on his father's farm and his education was secured in the primitive school of that day. He married Theresa Tenwealde, the daughter of Henry Tenwealde and wife, of Glan- dorf and to this union were born the following children: Henry, deceased; 71' ^7^' ''^' ^^''■'^'' ^""^ ^"^ ^'•^"'^- Of these, Henry mar- ned Anna Klemen and lives in Greensburg township; Mary married George Klemen and hves m Pleasant township; Theresa married Barney Klemen- Anna married Frank Hohenbrink; Frank married Mary Vogef; the last' three families now reside in Greensburg township ' ^ ' Joseph Unverferth, the subject of this speech, was educated in Greens- urg township and during the early years of his life worked on his fat^er^ farm. On May 31, 1892, he was married to Elizabeth Meyer a daughter o Gerhard and Elizabeth (Dickman) Meyer, both of whom ;ere nateT of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Meyer were married in Glandorf, Putnim ounty and to them were born the following children: Mary, iatherir John, Theresa, Henry, Caroline, Joseph and Elizabeth. Of ^hese Mary married Frank Deters and resides in Henry county; Catherine marrierw Jerwers and lives m New Cleveland; John married Catherine Smith who died, and later he married Catherine Hark and now lives in Ottawa' The resa married William Annesser and hves in Canada; Caroline married Jodokus Schmitz and lives in Pleasant township; Joseph married Ma y Brinkman and lives in Union township. ^ After his marriage, Mr. Unverferth first rented a farm and lived in Pleasant township for three years before coming to his present farm He moved to the farm he now occupies in Union township in 1902, which he and his ather owned in low bottoms. It consists of one hundred and sixl acres which Mr. Unverferth, with the appliance of modern agricul ura^ To Mr. and Mrs. Unverferth, have been born the following children- Lawrence, born on May 7, 1893; Leona, born on July 4. 1895 Leo born fz 1908 and AJfr:' "" ^.^-^ber 28, 1905; Francis, born on April 12, 1908 and Alfred, born on May 2, 1911. Of these children Lawrence sdTHam1t°""' ?r '",' "^" '" ^"^°" ^°-"^^'P'- Leona m rried Ru^ sell Hamilton and they make their home with Mr. and Mrs. Unverferth PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 575. Mr. Unverferth is known and admired for his untiring industry and is an exponent of advanced ideas in farming. He has one of the best equipped farms in the county in modern farm machinery. His tractor and other outfits, including a gang plow, are in great demand among the other farmers and he has at various times devoted some attention to public contract work. Mr. Unverferth is engaged in general farming and also raises full-blooded Shorthorn cattle. The Unverferth family are members of St. Michael's Catholic churck at Kalida, and have always been conspicuously identified with all its good work and are highly regarded in the social sphere of this community. DAVID HENRY RENSHAW. A successful farmer of \'an Buren township, Putnam county, Ohio, where he has made his home since 1865, is David Henry Renshaw, who has devoted his whole life to agricultural pursuits. He has led a quiet and uneventful life on the farm and has never cared to take an active part in the life of his community. David H. Renshaw, -the son of Thomas and Maria (Young) Renshaw, was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, April 4, 1861. His father was born in the same county. May 10, 1833, a son of Reverend David and Eliza (Armstrong) Renshaw. David Renshaw was born in Pennsylvania, came to Ohio in the early history of the state and was married, in Ohio, to Eliza. Armstrong. David Renshaw was a farmer and a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church. He and his wife, Eliza, reared a family of eight chil- dren, Thomas, John, Samuel, Mary, Serepta, Sarah, Frank and Ransome. Thomas Renshaw attended the common schools of Fairfield county, and helped his father on the home place, until he was married at the age of twenty- five. He married Maria Young on March 28, 1858. She was a daughter of Henry and Nancy Young, natives of Pennsylvania and Mary- land, respectively. Henry Young and wife were the parents of a large family of children, James, Hester, Rachel, Rebecca, William, Nicholas,. Charles, Maria, Serenia, Sarah, Rhoda, Lorain and Keziah. Of these chil- dren, Charles died in infancy. Thomas Renshaw remained in Fairfield county, Ohio, until 1865, when he moved to Putnam county and bought a farm of eighty acres from his ,576 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. father. This place he cleared and lived on until his death, December 17, 1913. Four children were born to Thomas and Maria (Young) Renshaw, David and Byron, who are living on the old home farm; Kate, who married John Welch, of Wood county, and has eight children, Sylvia, Harley, Leslie, .Lewis, Emmett, Lawrence, Myrtle and Glee; William T., of Clyde, Ohio, who married Louise Barrack, and has two children, Grace and Bergan. David H. Renshaw has never married, and he and his brother, Byron, who was born on September 20, 1870, are now managing the old home farm, where they were reared. The brothers are Republicans, but neither of -them has ever been active in its councils. They are good citizens and progressive farmers and have a large circle of friends and acquaintances -throughout the township. HARRY C. PARRETT. The gentleman to a brief review of whose life the reader's attention IS herewith directed, is among the foremost business men of Continental, JPutnam county, Ohio. By his enterprise, industry, management and pro- gressive methods, he has assisted materially in the industrial and commercial advancement of this community. Mr. Parrett is possessed of rather ex- 'ceptional executive and business ability. He is numbered among the fore- most citizens, of Continental, and is honored and respected by all of his neighbors for his many good qualities. Harry C. Parrett was born on September 8, 1878, in Columbus Grove, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Samuel R. and Linda (McKibben) Parrett, the former of whom was born on July 4, 1854, in Fayette county, Ohio, and was the son of John S. and Angelina (Fifer) Parrett. John S. Parrett was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, where his wife was native born. He grew to manhood in Virginia and came to Fayette county, 'Ohio, in 1852, locating on a farm in Fayette county. Outside of two years spent in Illinois, he lived in Fayette county until 1865, when he moved to Powell creek, in Monroe township. Here he farmed until his death, in 1908. His wife died four years previously, in 1904. Samuel R. Parrett was eleven years old when he came to Monroe township with his parents. He remained on the home farm until his mar- riage, in 1877, to Linda McKibben, a native of Athens county, Ohio, born in 1855, and the daughter of Samuel and Anna (Farrabee) McKibben. HAKKY ('. I'AIiUKTT. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. C77 -Samuel McKibben was a native of Ohio, whose father, Joseph McKibben, was a native of North Ireland, who came to Ohio in pioneer times. After his marriage, Samuel Parrett located in Monroe township, and farmed here on sixty-four acres of land. With the exception of one year spent in Columbus Grove, he has always lived in Monroe township. He is stiU an active farmer. Samuel and Linda Parrett had one son, Harry C, the sub- ject of this sketch. Samuel Parrett is a member of the Masonic fraternity at Continental, and at one time was trustee of the township. He served many years as a member of the school board and held other minor offices. He is a Democrat; is a member of the Zion Christian church, where his wife is also a worshiper. Mr. Parrett has held minor offices in this church and was treasurer for many years. Harry C. Parrett grew to manhood on the home place and was reared -as a farmer. He was educated in the township schools and taught school for a period of five years in Monroe township. Mr. Parrett was married on October 5, 1902, to Myrtle Wistei-man, a daughter of David and Leander (Brower) Wisterman, both of whom are natives of Putnam county. Mrs. Parrett was born in Monroe township, July 10, 1884. David and Leander Wisterman had nine children, of whom Mrs. Parrett was the youngest of the family. Harry C. Parrett farmed in Monroe township after his marriage, living ■on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. He removed to Continental in 1906, and entered the implement and hardware business alone. He fol- lowed this business for three years, when he sold out and entered his present business of real estate, insurance and loans. He is still active in business. Mr. Parrett is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, Lodge No. 570, at Continental. He served as town councilman and was treasurer for two years, 1912 and 1913. During the latter year, he was elected mayor of Continental, and is now filling this position with credit to himself and his community. He is a stanch Democrat and has always been active in the councils of this party. Although Mr. Parrett is not a member of any church, he was reared as an adherent of the Christian church. It is not necessary for the biographer to say that Harry C. Parrett is highly respected m Continental, Ohio. The many positions of trust and responsibility which he has held show, better than any words of testimony, the character of the confidence reposed in him by the people of this township. Mr. Parrett has proved himself worthy of these trusts and is admired today as one of the leadmg citizens of Putnam county. 37 578 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ADAM TRIETCH. Among the. farmers of German birth who have brought to the operation of their farms the intensive methods adopted from stern necessity in the old country, and have made those methods apply so successfully here, as to attract general attention and emulation, the gentleman, whose name is noted above, is clearly entitled to mention and it is a pleasure to present here a brief narrative of the distinctive points in his career. Adam Trietch was born in Hesse, Germany, May 29, 1863, the son of Andrew and Catherine (Linner) Trietch, both of whom were natives of the same province of the Fatherland. Andrew Trietch was born in July, 1826, and was a tailor all his life,. a man highly respected in his home place. He was twice married, by his- first wife having four children, Nicholas, deceased; Mrs. Elizabeth Gerish, of Crestline, Ohio; George, who remained in Germany, and Andrew, deceased. By his marriage with Catherine Linner, Andrew Trietch had three children, Adam, with whom this sketch directly treats; Mrs. Lizzie Knapp, who lives in Germany, and Mrs. Barbara Eding, who lives at Cleveland, Ohio. Andrew Trietch died at the age of seventy-nine and his wife, the mother of Adam, died at the age of sixty-eight. Adam Trietch left his home in Germany when he reached the age of fourteen and went to Switzerland, where he worked for about three years, at the end of which time he made up his mind to try his fortunes across- the sea. To this end he came to America and found his way to Holgate, Ohio, where his uncle, Nicholas Trietch, had been living for some years. In that vicinity he worked on farms until he was twenty-seven years of age, engaging his services by the month to the farmers of the neighbor- hood and there he met and married, on April 29, 1890, Mary Elizabeth Brinkman, who was born in Henry county, Ohio, June 23, 1866, the daugh- ter of Henry and Elizabeth (Reiter) Brinkman, the former of whom was born in Crawford county, Ohio, July 15, 1832, and the latter being born in Pennsylvania, March 1, '1838, and both of vvhom are enjoying good health in their hale old age at Holgate, Ohio, Mr. Brinkman being eighty- three years of age and Mrs. Brinkman being seventy-seven. Henry Brinkman spent his boyhood days in Crawford county, Ohio, his parents having been pioneer farmers of that county, and received such education as the meager schools of that day afforded, being trained in the ways of farming, which vocation he followed all his active days. He was PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. cyg married in Crawford county, and later moved to Henry county, where he farmed for a time, then moving into the town of Holgate where he is now hving in comfortable retirement. He and his wife are the parents of six children, the others being Mrs. Cinderella Wolf, Frank and John, all of whom live in Henry county, Ohio, and Anna, who died in infancy, and Mrs. Hattie Rennecker, of Indiana. After his marriage, Adam Trietch farmed in Henry county for three or four years and then moved to Defiance county, where he was engaged in farming for five years, at the end of which time he came to Putnam county, on February 16, 1899, locating on his present farm in Monroe township. At the time Mr. Trietch bought this farm, it contained but eighty acres and was in a badly run-down condition, having been but little improved. He went in debt to the amount of eighteen hundred dollars on making this purchase and until he began to see his way clear he and his wife were con- tent to hve in a small log house, which had been constructed on the place in an early day, and to adopt such frugal methods of living as their pru- dence suggested during this trying time. Living thus and working as they were compelled to work, required a large stock of courage and no end of industry, but he and his wife were equal to the occasion and they now have a place of which not only they are proud, but which is a distinct credit to the community. Not only have Mr. and Mrs. Trietch succeeded in clear- mg and improving their original tract of eighty acres, but, as affairs pros- pered with them, they enlarged their farm by the purchase of an adjoining eighty, and now have one of the best and most attractive farms in that par^t of the county. They erected their fine new home in 1908, and the barn and other buildings on the place are in keeping with the same. Their farm IS known far and near as "Cloverleaf Farm," and is one of the best-kept places in Monroe township, reflecting, as it does, the progressive ideas and careful management of the owners. To Adam and Mary Elizabeth (Brinkman) Trietch have been born seven children, as follow: Hattie, who married Andrew Friend a well- known farmer of Monroe township, this county, and who has one son- Clarence, Emma, George, Orville, Leah and Edgar, who are still at home and whose assistance has been no small factor in the general improvement of their well-appointed home place. The Trietches are members of the Mt Zion church, m the various beneficences of which they are deeply interested and m the other good works of which congregation they take an active part as well as participating in all local movements designed to advance the public weal. 58o PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Trietch is a Republican on national issues, but in voting on local issues is rather independent, preferring to reserve his right to vote for the best man, regardless of party affiliations. Not only has he been diligent in his business, but he has found time to devote a good share of his energy to the public interest and has been prompt to lend his aid to any cause which promised better things for the community. For some time he served the township most effectively as a member of the school board and his interest in educational matters was exerted very helpfully in advancing the interests of the schools in Monroe township. He has proved himself a good citizen during the years he has lived in that community. An excellent farmer, he has acquired a fair competence and is not disturbed by thoughts of the future. He has a kind word for everybody and no one in the neighborhood is more popular than he. AMOS NICHOLS. Four generations of the Nichols family have added their part to the development of Putnam county, and no history of this county would be complete without fitting reference to the life and work of the gentleman whose name at the head of this biographical sketch, stands as a typical rep- resentative of the family in this section of the state. Amos Nichols was born in Union township, Putnam county, Ohio, October 7, 1850, the son of Edward and Margaret (Irwin) Nichols, the former of whom was born in Licking county, Ohio, in the year 1823, the son of Joseph and Hanna (Brown) Nichols, and the latter of whom was the daughter of Josiah Kennedy Irwin, one of the early settlers of this county. Joseph Nichols was born in 1790, in Virginia, but early in his life left the Old Dominion and came to Ohio, locating in Licking county, where his son Edward was born, migrating to Putnam county when this son was quite young, and settling in Union township. This was about the year 1834, which makes Joseph Nichols one of the earliest settlers of that part of the county. At that time all that portion of the county was heavily timbered and it was no small task for the pioneer Nichols to clear the farm which he had undertaken to reclaim from the wilderness. He entered from the gov- ernment a tract of one hundred and sixty acres, which, in time, he suc- ceeded in clearing and which he gradually brought to a high state' of culti- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 58 1 vation. Joseph Nichols took a prominent part in the early social and civic activities of the pioneers and became, by force of character, one of the leaders in the community life of the time. Here he and his good wife spent the rest of their lives, the death of the former occurring in 1861. It was amid these pioneer conditions that Edward Nichols grew to manhood's estate, receiving such meager education as the schools of that period offered the youth, and, under the careful attention of his parents, he acquired a full knowledge of the needs of the life of a farmer, which vocation he had decided to follow. He married Margaret Irwin, whose parents also were pioneers of that section, and continued to farm the home place until his death at the early age of thirty-nine. His wife, who was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, February 23, 1818, survived him many years, her death not occurring until the year 1893. Further details of the genealogy of Mrs. Nichols may be found in the biographical sketch of her brother, Ben Irwin, presented elsewhere in this volume. To Edward and Margaret (Irwin) Nichols nine children were born, as follow: Mrs. Martha Holt, of Columbus Grove, Ohio; Mrs. Lucinda Rimer, of Columbus Grove; Joseph, who lives in Paulding county, Ohio; Sarah Ann, who married J. C. Best and lives in Union township, this county; Amos, the immediate subject of this biographical sketch; Mrs. Hettie Martin, who lives near Dundee, Michigan; Edward, who died at the age of four; Mrs. Elizabeth Jane Anderson, who lives at Marion, Indiana, and Mrs. Hannah Spratt, who lives at Weston, Ohio. Amos Nichols grew to manhood on the parental farm, receiving his schooling in the district schools, and on January 25, 1872, married Martha Ellen Hayden, who was born in Sugar Creek township, this county, on May 22, 1854, the daughter of Nathaniel and Eliza (Brothers) Hayden, pioneers of this county. To the union of Amos and Martha Ellen (Hayden) Nichols, eleven children were born, as follow: Lucinda, who married P. W. Shane, of Lima, Ohio, to which union there were born twelve children, Elmer, Blanche, Lizzie, Gladys, Agnes, Pearl, Grace, Dallas, Edith, Stanley, Ernest and another, the latter three of whom died in infancy; Clarke, who is a farmer living in Allen county, Ohio, married Elizabeth Rumel and has no chil- dren; Alvin, married Belle Jane Logan and lives at Alberta, Canada, and has no children; Mina May married Charles Benroth, of Columbus Grove, this county, and has six children, Leslie, Florence, Carrie, Clyde, Fay and Zenis ; Gilbert Lewis, who also lives in Alberta, was married, but his wife died, leaving him with three children, Martha, Alfred and Clarence; Hannah, 5°^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Who died January 10, 1909, married George D. McCombs, an Allen county farmer, and had one child, a. son, Kenneth; Grover, a Union township farmer married Came Roberts and has four children, Carl Maxwell, Helen Lucille' Paul Eugene and Orin; Edward, a Jackson township farmer, married Min- me Kneuve and has three children, Edna Martha, Kermit and Jerome- John Elmer, who also lives in Alberta, married Cuba Swartzkopf and has one child, a daughter, Evelyn; Ethel, who died on June 11, 1914, married James McKenna, a Pleasant township farmer, and had two children, Muriel and Zelma; Hazel, died April 28, 1914. It was in the fall of 1872, following his marriage, that Amos Nichols moved to the farm on which he now lives and there he reared his large family and provided a comfortable competence for his declining years Though still living on the farm, he has practically retired from the active work of the same, giving the management of the farm over to his son Grover, who lives on a portion of the home place. During his life of activ- ity in the community in which he was born, Amos Nichols has become one of the leaders in that section. He is one of the local leaders of the Demo- cratic party and served his township for one term as assessor and for many years has been a school director in hi's district. He is a man of genial dis- position and high character, and he and his wife ever have been counted among the leaders in the good works of their community, both bein- very popular m the circle in which they move. They have a fine farm ''on an excellent location and are among the substantial citizens of that township HENRY KREINBRINK. One of the many excellent farmers of Putnam county, Ohio, of German descent, is Henry Kreinbrink, who was born at Glandorf, this county and has made this his home for the past forty-eight years. He was reared in this county and after his marriage settled down to the life of a farmer, and now has a well-improved farm with a good home, where he and his family are surrounded with all the comforts and conveniences of life Henry Kreinbrink, the son of Rudolph and Elizabeth '(Gosling) Krein- brink, was born on March 12, 1867, at Glandorf, Putnam county Ohio His father was a native of Germany, his birth occurring at Osnabruck, Hanover Germany, on December 24, 1857; he was a son of John Kreinbrink, who came to America when Rudolph was about ten years of age. John Kreinbrink and PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 583 his family lived in Cincinnati for a time and then removed to Putnam county, Ohio, locating in Glandorf , Avhere Rudolph w^as reared to manhood and mar- ried Elizabeth Gosling, who was born at Clarholz, Prussia. Her father died there and her mother later married Anton Brokamp, and then she came to America at the age ofi ten with her mother and stepfather, and located west of Glandorf along the Findlay, Fort Wayne & Western Railway. Rudolph Kreinbrink and his wife, Elizabeth Gosling, bought a farm four miles north of Glandorf, and here made their home the remainder of their lives. Mr. Kreinbrink had a farm of one hundred and ninety-three acres, which he improved and brought to a high state of cultivation. He died on April 13, 1895, and his widow passed away on February 2, 1913. Rudolph Kreinbrink and wife were the parents of twelve children, of whom three sons and one daughter died in infancy. There are five sons and three daughters living: Ignatius, Thresia, the wife of Barney Brown; Anna, the wife of John Weis; Henry, a farmer of Liberty township; Philomena, a sister in the Lorraine hospital; Joseph, Theodore and Louis. Henry Kreinbrink was reared on his father's farm and received such education as was given in the schools of his neighborhood. After his mar- riage he bought a farm of eighty-nine acres, just west of West Leipsic, and has made this his home ever since. He remodeled the house and had it equipped with all the modern conveniences in order to rnake life more pleas- ant. He has engaged in general farming and stock-raising, and with that success which always attends the thrifty German farmer of this county. Mr. Kreinbrink was married on June i, 1892, to Mary Meyer, who was born south of Glandorf, in this county, and who is a daughter of George B. and Anna Mary (Moening) Meyer. Her father was a native of Germany, born in Glandorf, Hanover, on August 26, 1833. He was not more than one year old when his parents came to America and located southwest of Glan- dorf, in Putnam county. Mr. Meyers settled in the dense woods and they had to clear the land, built their cabin and endured all the toil and privations of pioneer life.- Anna Mary Moening, the mother of Mrs. Kreinbrink, was a sister of Henry Moening, whose history elsewhere in this volume gives an account of the Moening family. George B. Meyer farmed all of his life northwest of Glandorf and was the owner of a good farm. He died on September 17, 1900, and his widow passed away March 6, 1912. Eleven children were born to George B. Meyer and wife, two of whom died at the age of three, one at the age of nine, and Catherine, who was the wife of Frank Karhoff, died at the age of twenty. Seven children are still living: J. Henry, Theodore, Joseph, Herman, Anna Mary, Frank and Elizabeth, the S84 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. wife of Joseph Kleman. The sketch of J. Henry Meyer, elsewhere in this- work, gives more of the Meyer family history. Henry Kreinbrink and wife are the parents of nine children living and one deceased. Mary died in 1900 at the age of fourteen months, while the other living children are as follow : Elizabeth, Ana, John, August, Ferdi- nand, Rosa, Clara, Alphonse and Vincent. All of these children are still single except Elizabeth, who is the wife of Louis Kleman, and who lives on the Henry Moening farm near Glandorf. They have one son, Victor. Mr. Kreinbrink and his family are all loyal members of the Catholic church and liberal supporters of its various activities. THEODORE VERHOFF. Descended from honored ancestry and himself numbered among the leading residents of Putnam county, Ohio, the subject of this review is worthy of specific recognition in a work of this character. Residing in this county for so many years has but strengthened his hold on public opinion, and today none in this community enjoys a larger circle of warm friends and acquaintances, who esteem him because of his sterling qualities of character and business ability. Theodore Verhoff was born in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio, June 17, 183S, and is the son of Francis and Mary (Kramer) Verhoff. The subject's grandparents, on the father's side, were born, lived and died in Germany, but on the mother's side, Theodore and Gertrude (Veraking) Kramer, who were married in Germany, and resided there many years, came to this country when the elder Kramer was about fifty years of age. ' They settled on a farm in Putnam county, Ohio, and to them were born six children, William, Henry, Catherine, Christina and Mary, all of whom are now deceased, except Frederick, who is the surviving one. Francis VerhoiT, father of Theodore Verhoff, was born in Westphalia, Prussia, and came to America in 1836 by himself and settled near Glandorf' Putnam county, Ohio, on a small farm, the original tract consisting of twenty six acres. Having learned the blacksmithing trade, and realizing the necessity for such a business in his community, it is interesting to record that he was the proprietor of the first blacksmith shop in this county. This was operated in connection with his farm for many years and bore a repu- tation for first-class workmanship. ^^^^^^^^■^ ^ !>_> ''#^S;J PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. cQc About the year 1837, Francis Verhoff and Mary Kramer were joined in matrimony, and resided on the farm belonging to the former. To them were- born eleven children, Theodore, Gertrude, Christina, Catherine, Mary Ann, Frank, Henry, William (now deceased), Charles, William and Flor- entine. The father of these children, prior to his death in 1863, had acquired a full section of land. With the assistance of the sons, the greater portion of this tract was cleared and properly prepared for miscellaneous farming and the raising of stock. This farm is pointed to with great pride by the descendants. Mr. Verhoff, being one of the pioneer settlers of Putnam county, came here shortly after the founding of the town of Glandorf by Professor Horstman, a native of Germany. The wife and mother lived until the year 1901, during which year she was called by the Master of Destiny and was laid away with the father. It may be well said that they were loyal and practical members of the Roman Catholic church, attending St. John's church, at Glandorf. They left behind them enviable reputa- tions for good citizenship and set their children a good example of true christian life. Theodore Verhoff, the subject of this review, received a good common' school education. He was a man of keen observation and devoted himself to farming and stock-raising with a decided degree of success. He was. married on June 18, 1861, to Elizabeth Egbers, who, at that time, was just twenty years of age, and who was the daughter of Theodore Egbers and wife. Having decided to reside on a portion of the large farm bequeathed to the children of Francis Verhoff, they located on seventy-eight acres in sections 9 and 16, Greensburg township, and which was put to use in the usual course of farming. To Theodore Verhoff and wife were born twelve- children, and they are enumerated, in the order of their birth dates as fol- low: Frank J., June 22, 1864; William F., August 22, 1866; Barney Henry July 22, 1869; John Theodore, April 6, 1870; Joseph Charles, March 15' 1873; John Barney, April 15, 1875; August George, February 5 1877' Alloisa Albert, February 18, 1883; Mary Elizabeth, April 13, 1862 (now deceased) ; Mary Ann, March 4. 1863; Amelia Helena, June 21, 1870- Marv Regma, Februaiy 24. 1881. Marriages of these children have taken place ZL J^!^"" ^''"'' '° ^^''^^''^ Hamberg, who have a family of eight children; Wdham F. to Agnes Lemper, to whom there have been born seven children, Barney Henry to Elizabeth Gerdeman, who have two children- John Theodore to Catherine Brinkman, who have four living children and' one deceased; Charles Joseph to Amelia Schroeder, with one child- John Barney to Mary Lemper, who have two children; August George to Nora 586 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Westbeld, who have two children; Ameha Helena to Barney Siefker, who have six children ; Alloisa Albert to Veronica Schmiedebusch, who have two children. Mary Ann, up to this writing, is recorded as single, as is also Mary Regina. All are residents of Putnam county. Mr. Verhoff, observing that his youngest son, Alloisa, took such a keen interest in the farm and in the raising of blooded stock, he appointed him to the management of his farm, son after his marriage to Veronica Schmiedebusch. This marriage occurred on June 6, 191 1, and the wife was one of the large family of Frank and Gertrude Schmiedebusch, natives ■of Putnam county, and who are engaged in farming. Besides the daughter named, they are blessed with eight other children, Emma, Gertrude, Syl- vester, Laura, Clara, Edward, Charles and Frank. Alloisa and Veronica are now the proud possessors of two children, Gertrude Elizabeth, born on May 8, 1912, and Cornehus Frank Theodore, born on September 30, 1913. In the management of the farm, and practically the entire responsibility for Its success ultimately resting upon the son, Alloisa, it should be recorded that it is one of the best-managed stock and general-purpose farms in this section of the country. Particular attention is given to the breeding of Holstein cattle, Poland-China hogs, Belgian horses, etc. The farm build- mgs, commodious and comfortable, are kept in first-class condition and everything clearly indicated an industrious and business-like management Great credit is due Alloisa Verhoff and in appreciation of his efforts in behalf of the place, a short time before his marriage,- his father bequeathed the farm to him, reserving a life interest in it. Theodore Verhoff, whose wife died on March 20, 1905, is, despite his age, a remarkably bright and active man mentally. It is indeed interesting to hear this pioneer settler's anecdotes of early days, besides observing hit keen interest in public affairs. Mr. Verhoff served on the local school board for many years, taking an active and aggressive part in everything looking toward the advancement of the young folks. He was a firm believer in the principles of Democracy. He is a member of St. John's Catholic church, -of Glandorf, Ohio, to which he contributes liberally, according to his means. Mr. Verhoff enjoys a large circle of friends and companions, and, because ■of his high personal standing, is popular throughout the community, being numbered among Putnam's county's most enterprising and progressive citf- zens. Alloisa bought fifty acres of land in section 9, adjoining the home place, a year before his marriage, and devotes a part of his time to its culti- vation and improvement. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 587 FRANK LOGAN. Among the public men of Putnam county, Ohio, men who have given ■of the best of their services through a long period of years, unselfishly and •devotedly, to the public interest, few are better known or more deservedly popular than County Commissioner Frank Logan, a brief and modest biog- raphy of whom it is a pleasure for the historian to present at this point in this comprehensive and illuminating history of Putnam county. By gradual degrees, Mr. Logan has come to his present eminence in county affairs, his long training in the public service having equipped him, as few men in the public life of the county have been equipped, for the exacting duties of the office to which he was called by the people at the last election. For twenty years a justice of the peace of Union township; for five terms as assessor in the same township; president of the school board for twenty years past, and land appraiser, there are few men who have had better train- ing for public service than has he, a fact which the voters of the county appreciated when they placed him on the board of county commissioners, the most important executive department of the county government, and to which he has brought well-trained ability and soundness of judgment, together with a thorough knowledge of public affairs and the best needs of the commonwealth, which ought to prove most serviceable to the people ■of the county and to the administration of their common business affairs; Faithful to the public trusts to which he frequently has been called and dili- gent in his own business, Mr. Logan has brought to the office of county commissioner a ripe experience of affairs and a devotion to the public weal, Avhich his friends are quite sure will redound greatly to the benefit of the whole people of the county. Frank Logan was born in Monroe township, Allen county, Ohio, March 31, 1858, son of Israel. S. and Maria (Cowen) Logan, and has spent his -whole life in this section of the state, with the public affairs of which and with the needs of which he is thoroughly acquainted. Israel Logan, father of Frank Logan, was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, June 1, 1834, the son of Joseph Logan and wife, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania and the latter a native of Ohio. Joseph Logan, father of Israel, was born in Allegheny county, Penn- sylvania, his father, Joseph Logan, Sr., having been a native of Vannangoe county, same state, who settled in Allegheny county, where he became one of the county's most substantial farmers and useful citizens. Joseph, Jr., 588 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. grew up in Allegheny county and married there, later moving to Tuscarawas- county, Ohio, where his son Israel was born, and still later, at the time Israel was two years of age, moving to Putnam county, locating in Sugar Creek, township, where he died in 1841, when Israel was seven years of age. At the death of his father, Israel was taken into the home of the Clevenger family in Sugar Grove township, where he was carefully reared and where- he learned the essential principles of farming, a vocation which he followed all his life. He remained in the Clevenger home until he attained his major- ity, after which he obtained a position as driver of an overiand wagon, a "prairie schooner," on a wagon train bound for western Iowa. This was. m the year 1855 and he remained in the West for a time, but upon being seized with a severe attack of mountain fever, decided to return to his Ohio, home. As soon as he was able to travel he came back to Putnam county and on January 7. 1857, was united in marriage with Miss Maria Cowan, a native of Columbus, Ohio, who had come to Kalida, this county, from Columbus, with her mother, following the death of her father and who grew to woman- hood m this county. After their marriage, Israel Logan and his wife lived for a time m Monroe township, Allen county, Ohio, but the next year, in April, 1858, returned to Putnam county and located on a farm of forty acres m Union township. This farm was mostly wild and wooded, only a portion of It having been cleared, and he presently brought it to a state of cultivation, after which he traded it for another farm, and in the next twenty years making several such trades, all of which proved advantageous to him. In 1878 he moved to Henry county, Ohio, where he bought a farm which he operated until about eight years ago, at which time he retired from the active management of the farm and has since lived a retired and corafort- bael life, he and Mrs. Logan making their home with their son Finley on the home farm. To Israel and Maria (Cowan) Logan were born seven children all of whom, save one, are still living, the sixth child, Kemerer, having died in infancy, the survivors being Frank, the immediate subject of this sketch- Howard, a farmer and stock buyer of Allen county, Ohio; Finley, wha manages the home place in Allen county, living with his parents; Americus v., of this county, and his twin sister, Mrs. Alice Rayle,^who lives in Henry county, Ohio, and John, who lives in Billings, Montana. Frank Logan grew to manhood in Union township, this county was studious m his attention to his school duties in his youth and at the same time learned all there was to know about the life of a farmer, he having determined to follow the agricultural vocation as a life work. For twenty- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 589 three years in the period of his Hfetime he taught school in Union town- ship, farming during the summer seasons, and on April 7, 1881, was united in marriage with Miss Maggie E. Boxwell, who was born in Perry township, this county, March 22, 1860, the daughter of Joseph N. and Adeline (Meyers) Boxwell, well-known residents of that township, the former of whom was a native of Maryland and the latter a native of Penn- sylvania. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Logan located on a farm in Union township and remained on that place until the year 1888, in which year they bought their present home farm in the same township, and here they have lived ever since, having been quite successful in the management and operation of the same. In addition to this home place, Mr. Logan owns two other farms, having one hundred and ninety-six acres in all, one hundred and twenty-nine acres in Union township and sixty-six and one-half acres in Sugar Creek township. To the union of Frank and Maggie E. (Boxwell) Logan, five children have been born: Eva A., born August ii, 1882, married Amos Jones, a farmer of Sugar Creek township, this county, and has one child, Genevieve; Joseph Franklin, born May 31, 1887, a Union township farmer, who mar- ried Naomi Fruchey and has two children, Margaret and Richard; Alice May, born May 11, 1889, married John T. Thomas, a Union township farmer, and has one child, Franklin David; William Lloyd Garrison, born November 26, 1892, and Lois Margauerite, born April 21, 1900, the latter two living at home with their parents, very popular young people, who help their father and mother in extending the generous hospitalities of the Logan home. In addition to giving prudent attention to the personal considerations of his farm, Mr. Logan, as stated in the introduction to this biography, has found time for much public service, his interest in and devotion to the com- mon weal having prompted him to accept several offices of trust and re- sponsibility, in the administration of the affairs of which offices he always has had an eye single to the public good and has given much satisfaction to his local constituency. In his twenty years' service as justice of the peace, his wise counsels often have averted expensive and unnecessary litigation among neighbors and the judgments of his court rarely have been questioned to the point of taking an appeal to a higher court. In the office of land appraiser and as assessor of his township for five terms, he, likewise, has served the public faithfully and well, and in twenty years of service as president of the local school board he has brought the schools of Union 590 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. township to a state of excellence second to none in the comity, a measure of service for which the people of that township are ever grateful and which has been appreciated there accordingly. In view of all this unselfish devo- tion to the public welfare, it was taken for granted when he received the nomination for county commissioner from his district at the last Democratic county convention, that he would be elected and this conclusion was amply \erified when the returns came in, his period of ottice beginning with the September term of the board, in 1915. In church work, Mr. Logan has proved his ability for service, both he and Mrs. Logan being devoted and influential members of the Maple Grove Christian church, the congregation of which Mr. Logan long has served as trustee and clerk as well as having been closely identified with the work of the Sunday school. Mr. and Mrs. Logan and their family are very popu- lar in their neighborhood, their activity in all local good works having endeared them to all in that part of the county, and they are very properly regarded as among the leaders in all movements having the general welfare in consideration. By keen executi\-e perception and careful attention to the details of his business, Mr. Logan has accumulated a fair share of this world's goods and has a fine farm and a pleasant home. Lie is deeply inter- ested in progressive up-to-date methods of farming and ever is seeking to elevate the standard of farming in his locality, at the same time being a con- sistent "boo.ster' for all proper township improvements. He is a man of sterling character, a friend of all and "once a friend, always a friend," and has been an undoubted factor for great good in his community, his in- fluence extending beyond the mere local confines of his township. A lover of the truth, he has no use for anyone who is not sincere and is a foe of all shams, in whatever guise they may appear. CLYDE M. FLETCHER. Perseverance and sterling worth are almost always sure to win con- spicuous recognition in any locality. Clyde M. Fletcher has been a resident of Putnam county, Ohio, for several years, and his career is a splendid example of the successful, self-made man, who not only deserves the confi- dence reposed in him by his neighbors, but who also possesses the necessary energy and integrity fitting him to discharge the duties of a private citizen. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 59! He is a man of vigorous mentality and strong moral fiber and has made a signal success. Clyde M. Fletcher was born in 1881 in Hancock county, Ohio, and is a son of Victor and Annetta (Orrem) Fletcher. He was fifteen years of age when his parents moved to near Melrose, Paulding county, Ohio, and in 1889 moved to Continental, where they still reside. In 1907 Mr. Fletcher married Ella S. Beard, the daughter of John Beard. In 1908 he and his wife removed to a farm belonging to Mrs. Fletcher's father, where they have since lived. Mr. Fletcher is engaged in general farming, and is also a handy man at several trades, including that of paper hanging, painting, etc. Victor Fletcher, the father of Clyde M. Fletcher, was born. May 5,. 1852, in Hancock county, Ohio, the son of Charles and Catherine (Brown) Fletcher. Charles Fletcher was born in 18 10 in Adams county, Pennsyl- vania, near Gettysburg, while his wife, Catherine Brown, was born in Stark county, Ohio, in 1828, and was first married to Philander Emerson. She came with him to Hancock county, Ohio, where he entered government land, and here his death occurred. Charles Fletcher was first married to Jane Boyd, and moved to Hancock county about 1833. He was a lifelong farmer, and after the death of his first wife, he married Mrs. Emerson, and they spent the remainder of their lives on the farm. Victor Fletcher grew up- on the farm in Hancock county. He was married on October 4, 1878, to^ Annetta Orrem, who was born in 1855, in Hancock county, Ohio, and was a daughter of Henry Y. and Hester (Young) Orrem. ' Henry Y. Orrem was born in Knox county, Ohio, and was a son of Samuel and Rhoda Ann (Young) Orrem. It is believed that the Orrem family is of Spanish descent. When Annetta Orrem was a young woman, her parents moved to about three miles southeast of Leipsic, and later moved to Leipsic, where she lived when she married Mr. Fletcher. In the spring following his marriage, Victor Fletcher moved to Hancock county, and lived there for about twelve years. He then moved to near Melrose, in Paulding county, and lived there until December, 1897, and finally moved to Continental, where he has since lived. Victor Fletcher and wife are the parents of seven children : Izora, the wife of Lemuel S. Rice, lives in Kalamazoo, Michigan; Clyde M., the imme- diate subject of this review; Henrietta, the wife of A. S. Saegers, and died at the birth of her second' child; Jessie May, the wife of O. D. Zoll, lives in Cleyeland, Ohio; Clarence Edward, who died at the age of ten years; Flor- ence Edith, the twin sister of Clarence E., is the widow of Lewis Brown^ 592 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. and lives with her father in Continental; Donna Marie, who died at the age of nineteen months. Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher belong to the United Brethren church. HERMAN SCHUBERT. The success of men in business, or in any vocation, depends upon •character as well as upon knowledge. In every community some men are known by their upright lives, strong common sense and moral worth. Their neighbors respect them, the younger generation heed their example and when they wrap the drapery of their- couches about them and lie down to pleasant dreams, posterity listens with reverence to the story of their quiet and useful lives. Among such men of a past generation in Ohio was Herman Schubert, not only a progressive man of affairs, but successful in material pursuits and a man of modest and unassuming demeanor, a fine type of the reliable, self-made American, a friend to the poor, charitable to the faults of his neighbors and always active in support of laudable public en- terprises. The late Herman Schubert was proud of his residence in Put- nam county and the grand state of Ohio, and zealous for their progress and prosperity. He was a man who, in every respect, merited the high esteem in which he was universally held. The late Herman Schubert was born on December 28, 1839, in Craw- ford county, Ohio, and died on December 31, 1914. He was the son of John Casper and Christiana (Corfmann) Schubert, the former a native of Saxony, who came to America in 1833, ^^^ settled in Crawford county, where Herman Schubert was born. Christiana Schubert was a native of Saxony, also. Most of their children were born in the old country. After coming to America, they lived in Crawford county for eight years, leaving there in 1841, and moving to Seneca county, Ohio. They lived here for a number of years. John Schubert was a farmer. He died in 1881, at the age of ninety years. His wife died about 1868. John Casper and Christiana Schubert had eight children, of whom Herman was next to the youngest. All of the children, with the exception of Mrs. Lucinda Meyers, who lives in Highland township. Defiance county, are deceased. They were Leander, Osmuth, Matilda, August, Malina, Herman and Sarah. Herman Schubert grew up in Seneca county, Ohio, and was married there on September 29, 1887, to Susan Stahl, a native of Seneca county, HIORMAN .SOIIT'HKirr. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 593 born in 1850, the daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Putnam) Stahl, natives of Pennsylvania and Wayne county, Ohio, respectively. Samuel Stahl moved to Wyandot county, Ohio, when a lad. His wife moved to that county when about ten years of age. Both grew up in this county and lived there until 1857, when they moved to Seneca county, Ohio. Here they spent their remaining days. To Mr. and Mrs. Herman Schubert, three ■children were born, Bertie C, who lives at home; Louis Herman, who died in infancy; and Stella L., who lives at home. Shortly after his marriage, Herman Schubert moved to MacMinn •county, Tennessee, near Athens, and lived here until 1901, coming to Put- nam county at that time. He built a splendid residence in 1901, and owned one hundred and forty-four acres at the time- of his death. Twenty-four acres of this land was covered by natural timber. It was all located in Putnam county. Herman Schubert was a life-long farmer, and during the last few years of his life, he made a specialty of thoroughbred Jersey cat- tle. Herman Schubert was not a member of any lodge, at the time of his ■death. At one time he belonged to the Grange and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Two years before his marriage, he served as trustee in Defiance county, Ohio. He was a member of the Christian church, but was reared a Lutheran. Since there was no church in Putnam county, he joined the Methodist, church at Sharon, Ohio, and was very active in Sunday school work. He was a trustee of this church for a long time while living in Putnam county, and was superintendent of the Sunday school while liv- ing in Tennessee. Herman Schubert was a splendid farmer, as his well- improved and carefully-kept farm shows. His eldest son and daughter live at home. HENRY B. RUHE. The Ruhe family has been represented in this county since the year 1833, in which year the progenitor of Henry B. came to America, joining the large colony of Germans which settled in the Glandorf neighborhood^ about that time. Henry B. Ruhe was born near the town of Glandorf, in Ottawa town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio, on June 8, 1881, the son of Henry W. and Barbara (Koenig) Ruhe, the former of whom was born in' the same town- 38 594 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ship in the year 1849, the son of Gerhardt Joseph and Mary Anna (Musing) Ruhe, both of whom were natives of Germany. Barbara Koenig was born in Liberty township, the daughter of Charles and Matilda (Kastel) Koenig,. both of whom were natives of Bavaria. Gerhardt Joseph Ruhe, the first of the name in this section of Ohio,, was born in Saarbeck, Germany, on November 2, 1812, and died in this county on December 29, 1878, at the age of sixty-six years. Following his marriage to Mary Anna Musing in the old country, he came to America and located on a farm in Ottawa township, this county, entering the same from the government at a time when the land thereabout was an unbroken wilderness, through which Indians and the wild creatures of the forest still roamed at will. The original tract entered by Mr. Ruhe was eighty acres. Upon clearing this and bringing it to a state of cultivation, he bought another eighty acres adjoining and there he spent the rest of his life, being numbered among the most progressive and influential men of that neighbor- hood in his day. To Gerhardt Joseph and Mary Anna (Musing) Ruhe were born twelve- children, of whom six grew to maturity, as follow: Barney, Mrs. Theresla Hinken, Mrs. Josephine Knueve, deceased; Henry William, Mrs. Katherine Wortkoetter and Anthony B. Henry William Ruhe grew to manhood on the paternal farm in Ottawa township, and on February 7, 1877, was united in marriage with Barbara Koenig, the daughter of a pioneer family of Liberty township, her parents having come here early in the establishment of the German colony in the Glandorf section. To this union there were born eight children, as follow: Joseph, living in Pleasant township, who married Veronica Ricker and has five children, Clara, George, William, Albert and Paul; Mary Anna, who married Henry Kleman and lives northeast of Ottawa; Henry B., of whom this narrative immediately treats; John, who is unmarried and lives in Mis- souri; Charles, living in Pleasant township, married Emma Ricker and has one child, a son, Rudolph; Josephine, who married Joseph Kleman, of Pleasant township, and has three children, Peter, v\lexander and Sylvester; Theresia, who married John Segar and lives in Pleasant township, and Rosa,, unmarried, who lives at home. The mother of the above children died on June 4, 1897, and on June 20, 1898, Henry W. Ruhe married, secondly, Mrs. Mary Anna (Fredericks) Fortman, the widow of Henry Fortman, and to this union there were born two children, Maria Anna, who married Isaac McDowell and lives in the town PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. cge of Continental, this county, and a son, who died in early infancy. Henry W. Ruhe is still living on the farm on which he was born in Ottawa town- ship, the farm which his grandfather entered from the government. Henry B. Ruhe was reared on his father's farm in Ottawa township, receiving such scholastic advantages as the schools of his neighborhood offered, and there he grew to manhood, being carefully trained in the ways of farming. On May 1, 1906, he was united in marriage with Johanna Bensman, who also was born in Ottawa township, and two days later moved onto the farm on which they are now living in Monroe township, this county, four and one-half miles northwest of the town of Continental. Johanna Bensman is the daughter of George and Anna Mary (Heising) Bensman, both of whom were born in the Glandorf neighborhood in Ottawa township, members of pioneer families of that section. George Bensman was born in 1851 and died on May 6, 1892, and his wife was born on June 24, 1852, and died on November 28, 1891. Mr. Bensman was reared a farmer and remained on the home farm until he attained manhood, when he moved to Greensburg, where he bought a farm and spent the rest of his life there. Mrs. Ruhe grew to womanhood in Greensburg township and after the death of her parents made her home with the family of Andrew Gerde- man, where she remained until her marriage. Her parents had four chil- dren besides herself, as follow: Mrs. Mary Swigart, of Perry township, this county; Mrs. Veronica Barlarger, of Greensburg township; William, 'who also lives in Greensburg township, and one who died in infancy. To Henry B. and Johanna (Bensman) Ruhe have been born three children, Alexander, Marcella and Lucinda, lively young people, who make merry the pleasant home of their devoted parents. Upon acquiring his farm in 1906, Mr. Ruhe faced the considerable task of clearing the larger part of it ready for cultivation. This, however he has accompHshed and it all is cleared with the exception of about three acres of woodland which he has retained. He has drained and fenced the place m an excellent manner. He built his home in 1906 and built a new barn m 1914. He is a farmer of progressive ideas and these are reflected m the general appointments of his farm, which is one of the best-kept places in his neighborhood. Mr. and Mrs. Ruhe and their family are members of the Catholic church at Continental and are devoted supporters of the best interests of the parish. Mr. Ruhe is a Democrat and takes a good citizen's interest in politics, being a strong supporter of all measures designed to advance the 596 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. cause of good government. He has never been included in the office-seeking class, however, being content to devote his best endeavors to his well-kept farm and to the comfort and happiness of his family. He is a man of pleasing reserve of manner, industrious and thrifty, a good farmer and a credit to the citizenship of Monroe township, an indulgent father, a kind husband and an excellent neighbor, well liked and popular throughout that whole section of the county. FRANKLIN GRANT. A great French statesman once asked James Russell Lowell how long this republic could endure, and he replied, "So long as America is true to the principles of her founders." Nothing but high civic and political ideals heroically contended for, can hold our beloved republic on its upward way. "Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." To preserve this vision fresh and untarnished is the mission of all good citizens, a noble volunteer band whose call transcends all nar- row sectional boundaries and geographical divisions. The clock has struck the hour so earnestly longed for by Christopher Gadsen when there shall be "no East or West nor North or South, but all of us Americans." America is in the making. The blending of her various peoples into one homogeneous whole, to work out the vast problems' of civilization both for herself and the entire world, is the immediate task before us. The descendants of the original settlers will be expected to stand foremost among the many, in projecting the activities of the future. There are many descend- ants of this country's original settlers who are counted among the leaders in the social and civic life of Putnam county, among whom is the gen- tleman whose name is noted above, and the biographer finds pleasure in asking the attention of the reader to a few points relating to his honorable ancestry and to his part in the affairs of this county and the township, in which his family so long have been leaders. Franklin Grant, one of the best-known farmers and most reputable citi- zens of Monroe township, Putnam county, was born in that township on Feb- ruary 25, i860, the son of John and Rebecca (Sanford) Grant, the former of whom was a native of Jefferson county, Ohio, born July 11, 1822, and the latter of whom was a native of Sandusky county, Ohio. John Grant, who at the time of his death was the oldest pioneer and farmer of Monroe township, was of Scottish descent. His grandfather, who PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. eg7 also was named John, was a native of New Jersey, of old Colonial stock, who moved from New Jersey to Washington county, Pennsylvania, later coming to Ohio, where he settled in Starke county. There he underwent all the vicissitudes of frontier life, but eventually developed a farm of one hundred and sixty acres from the forest, on which he passed the remainder of his life. Before leaving Washington county, Pennsylvania, he had mar- ried a Miss Cosner, who, with him, died in the faith of the Presbyterian church. The elder John Grant was a man of splendid physique and, like most powerfully-buih men, possessed a kindly and admirable disposition. In politics he was a Jacksonian Democrat. David Grant, son of the elder John Grant, was reared a farmer in Washington county, Pennsylvania, and there married Rebecca Rape, to which union there were born eleven children, of whom only one now sur- vives, the venerable Mrs. Narcissia Sherrard, who lives two miles west of Fremont, Ohio, at the age of eighty-three years. The other children of this union were: Mary A., John, father of the immediate subject of this sketch; Joseph, Harriet, David, Letitia, Eunice, Rebecca, Runie and Jeremiah. David Grant moved from Pennsylvania with his family into Ohio and resided for four years on a farm in Jefferson county, then moving to San- dusky county, where he bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres near Fremont, taking possession of it before an ax had been struck in the wilder- ness of woods which covered it. There he built a log cabin for the shelter of his family and entered upon the strenuous task of clearing the place for cultivation, eventually bringing forth a farm that was both productive and profitable. David Grant became one of the most prominent residents of Sandusky county, was a leader in the local politics of the Democratic party and a pillar in the Methodist church. He was one of the most prosperous men in his neighborhood and possessed a large influence in the direction of the affairs of the community. Amid pioneer conditions such as above described, John Grant, son of David, grew to manhood. He was a sturdy, vigorous youth and, in addi- tion to learning all the ways of the pioneer farmer's life, obtained an excel- lent rudimentary education in the schools that were started by subscription m that section. He early developed excellent business traits and in his young manhood made a good start dealing in live stock. On April 7, 1850, John Grant was united in marriage with Rebecca Sanford. who was born m Seneca county, Ohio, the daughter of John and Rebecca (Cassidy) San- ford, and in that year moved to Putnam county, locating on the farm on 598 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. which he spent the rest of his hfe, in Monroe township. At the time he settled there, there were but two spots in the entire township that had been cleared, and bear, deer and other game abounded, as well as wolves and panthers. Eventually, amid all the privations of frontier life, he wrested from the forest a home that was one of the best in Putnam county in the later years of its owner's Hfe. John Grant was a patriotic Unionist and, when the Civil War broke out, he volunteered in defense of the national flag, but his services were declined on account of disability. He was an ardent Republican and ever took a deep interest in the political affairs of Putnam county. He served his township faithfully and well in the capacity of township trustee and township supervisor and for nearly thirty years served as township treasurer. He and his wife were ardent members of the Methodist church and did very much toward the permanent establishment of that church in their neighborhood in the early days, being very generous contributors to all the causes which it represented. He donated the ground on which the Sharon church was built and contrib- uted five hundred dollars toward the erection of that church building. He was a man of fine and noble traits and was widely known throughout the county for his sterling character, honesty and sincerity of life. Pie was a good farmer and not only made a competence for himself, but was able to assist his children when the time came for them to make a start in life, and was generous in all his dealings with his fellow men. To John and Rebecca (Sanford) Grant were born ten children, two of whom died in infancy, the others being as follow: David, who died on December 13, 1910; John, who died on January 27, 1865; George, who died on March 8, 1861 ; Franklin, the immediate subject of this biographical sketch; Joseph, who lives at Armuchee, Georgia; Mrs. Electa Pool, who died in 1892; Mrs. Alice Pool, who died in 1894, and Lewis, who is living on the original home farm in Monroe township, Putnam county, and is known as one of the prosperous and progressive farmers of that neighborhood. The mother of the above children died on July 23, 1893, and John Grant married, secondly, on April 11, 1894, Elizabeth Jones, who died on January 2, 1913, without issue. John Grant died on February 15, 1915, at the age of ninety- two years, seven months and four days, having for many years done well his part m the upbuilding of the community, of which he was so honored and respected a member. For three years or more before his death, he had been more or less retired from the active duties of the farm, his youngest son, Lewis, having taken over the management of the home place. Franklin Grant was reared on the paternal farm and received a very good common school education near his early home, being thus fully qualified with PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 599 the book learning necessary for the practical affairs of a business life, as far as it pertains to the successful prosecution of farming and the transactions connected therewith. Until his marriage in 1880, Mr. Grant remained on the home farm and after that happy event made his residence in Defiance county, Ohio, where he remained for four years, at the end of which time he returned to Putnam county and settled on his present farm in Monroe township. Here he erected a fine dwelling, built a good, substantial barn and suitable outbuildings, and otherwise improved it with thorough tihng and judicious cultivation, soon having one of the best moderate-sized farms in the township. This farm consists of a fraction over seventy-six acres, on which general farming is judiciously mixed with stock raising, Mr. Grant being an extensive breeder of hogs, the profit from which he finds one of the most remunerative phases of the farm life. He is a good farmer and keeps his place in admirable condition. On December 26, 1880, Franklin Grant was united in marriage with Jannettie Thornton, who was born in Fayette county, Ohio, on May 22, 1862, a daughter of David and Sarah (Fifer) Thornton, who spent their last days in the city of Ottawa; the death of the former occurring on June 9, 1909, his wife having predeceased him in 1905. To Franklin and Jannettie (Thornton) Grant have been born eight chil- dren, as follow: Orpha V., who married Franklin Shubert and lives in .Defiance county, Ohio; Lloyd Elmer, who lives in Michigan, married Vesta Reynolds and has four children, Homer, Ray, Theodore and Franklin; Inis Mabel, who married Leonard Kilpatrick, of Michigan, and has three chil- dren, Raymond, Marie and Irene; Edwin Harrison, a prosperous farmer in Paulding county, Ohio, who married Iva Gordon and has two children, •Gladys and Athal Leverine ; Otto Earl, who married Voe Ice and lives on the home farm with his parents; Chloe B., who married Lee Barringer, of Fos- toria, Ohio, and had two children, Bernard, and Donald, deceased; Lester, at home, and one child who died in infancy. Mr. Grant is a Republican and has always taken an active part in the campaigns of that party in Monroe township, his counsels being regarded as valuable by the party managers. He was appointed trustee of Monroe town- ship in April, 1914, and served since that time. During the existence of the Patrons of Husbandry in this section of the state, he was an earnest worker in that association of farmers and for a long time was master of his local grange. Mr. Grant and his wife are earnestly concerned in all movements looking to the advancement of conditions in the social and civic life of the community and are regarded as among the leaders in that neighborhood, where they are both held in the highest esteem by all. 600 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. NATHAN C. SHIRLEY. Examples that impress force of character upon all who study them^ are worthy of record. By a few general observations may be conveyed some idea of the characteristics and worthy career of Nathan C. Shirley, who is now living in Monroe township, Putnam county, Ohio, having, through his industry and perseverance, accumulated a competency. He has pursued the even tenor of his way in a quiet and unostentatious manner, which never courts publicity, attending strictly to his own affairs, doing the right as he understands it', and keeping his conscience void of offense toward God and man. It is not a matter of wonderment that the elements of a sub- stantial and practical nature, which unite in his composition, should win him a conspicuous place in his community, when we learn that he comes of a. sterling family, a family that believed, not only in keeping busy along- legitimate lines of endeavor, but also in living up to the highest standards- of citizenship in every respect. Nathan C. Shirley was born on December i, 1862, in Perry township,. Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Philip and Elizabeth (Prowant) Shirley. Philip Shirley was a native of Ross county, Ohio, born in February,. 1820, and a son of Nathan and Mary (Minear) Shirley. Nathan Shirley was born in Burks county, Pennsylvania, in t8oo, and left Pennsylvania, coming to Ohio during his boyhood days. His parents were Robert and Mary (Gilbert) Shirley, who were natives of Pennsylvania, also. They settled in Ross county, where they farmed, but later moved to Defiance- county. He farmed in Ross county for a time and removed to Defiance with his family in 1825. After his marriage, he made a trip to New Orleans by flatboat down the Mississippi river with flour, pork and shoes, and sold the outfit and boat, returning to Portsmouth, Ohio, from here by horseback to his farm in Ross county. He was gone a long time, and waited for in- creases in the market prices of his commodities. The family made the trip- with several other families in covered wagons to Defiance county durino- the Indian scare, and made use of the blockhouse at Defiance, Ohio, for a while. Nathan was captain of a military company at that place and served as drill master. Robert Shirley died in 1840, in Defiance county, where he is buried, near the west terminal of the upper Auglaize bridge." His wife died there also. At the time they first came to Defiance county, Robert Shirley and his family spent some time in the blockhouse at Defiance. The PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 6oi Indians were not thoroughly pacified, and there was continual fear of up- rising. This caused much unrest among the settlers. Robert was among the early settlers, a brave and courageous man, who lent a willing hand in all the work of the little community. In his later years, Robert Shirley con- ducted a tavern at Defiance, Ohio. He was largely identified with the his- tory of the town, having been in charge of the canal at that point. He was a hard worker, a man of sterling character, and suffered all the privations incident to the early pioneer life. He experienced many sorrows and also much happiness. Nathan Shirley was reared a farmer, and this he followed to his death, in 1871, at Junction, Paulding county, Ohio. His wife died about 1850. After her death, Nathan was again married to a widow, Mrs. Hankins, who survived him a number of years, and died in 1885. Nathan also experi- ence the hardships of pioneer life, and did his share for the uplift of the county. Philip Shirley, the father of the subject, grew up in Defiance county,, being only five years old when he was brought to the county with his, parents. He grew up on the homestead farm, and located at the Power dam, where his father, Nathan, owned two farms. He married Elizabeth Prow- ant, daughter of Christian and Catherine (Gable) Prowant, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, and who came with her parents to Putnam county about 1834, where she grew to womanhood and married. She was born on June 5, 1829, and died on February 13, 1914, at the age of eighty-four years, eight months and eight days. Philip Shirley came to Putnam county,. Ohio, and settled in Perry township, about 1847, and was married in 1848.' He died in Dupont, Ohio, March 29, 1901, at the age of eighty-one years one month and twenty-four days. Originally, Philip Shirley owned a farm', upon which the town of Dupont is now situated. The seven children born to Philip and Elizabeth f Prowant) Shirley were as follow: Mary C. ; Clara M., who is Mrs. Remus R. Brown of DeKalb county, Indiana; Anna E., later Mrs. Thomas Conkle, who died' m 1890; Nathan C, the subject of this sketch; Nancy R., now Mrs Oscar Lamont, of Belmore, Ohio, whose husband is the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad agent at that place; Alice D., now Mrs. George Lafferty of Edmore Michigan; Jennie C, who is now Mrs. George Cockrun, of Alluwee, Oklahoma. Nathan C. Shirley grew up in Perry township, on the homestead farm and was educated in this township. He spent one year at Delphos, Ohio in .the high school, and one year at the Northern Indiana Normal College' at Valparaiso, Indiana, as a student in the scientific course. He taught school ■^02 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. m Paulding county, Ohio, for two years prior to going to school at Val- paraiso, Indiana, and subsequently taught school in Putnam and Paulding counties for thirty-three terms. After his marriage, he removed to a farm •of seventy acres, and farmed and taught school in the district near by. He removed to his present farm in Monroe township in the spring of 1898. This farm originally consisted of one hundred and sixty-six acres, but Mr. Shirley now farms one hundred and eighty-six acres. Nathan C. Shirley was married, August 12, 1888, to Emma Ridenour, who was born in Perry township, Putnam county, January 16, 1863, and who is the daughter of Jacob and Fanny (Fretz) Ridenour. Jacob Riden- our was born in Fayette county, Ohio, and came to Putnam county, Ohio, with his parents when nine years of age. He grew up in Perry township, where he was reared a farmer. He died in 1888, at the age of seventy-two years. He was a Democrat in politics. His wife, Fanny Fretz, was born in Bucks county, Pennsylvania. To Mr. and Mrs. Nathan C. Shirley six children have been born: Ashley R. was born on June 22, 1889, she married Preston H. Miles and lives at Syracuse, Indiana, having no chil- dren; Hazel I. was born on November 21, 1890; Ross R. was born on Octo- ber 16, 1892; Mary E., who was born on October 19, 1894, married Floyd Groff, of Monroe township, who lives near the faiTn of Mr. Shirley; Lynn L. was born on November 18, 1898; Claude L. was born on August 13, 1905. Nathan C. Shirley has made most of his present farm by his own ef- forts and has cleared most of the land, and built all of the improvements to the farm. He has a fine barn, with modern apphances and conveniences and a milking machine. He believes strongly in progressive farming. The dimensions of his barn are ninety-six by fifty-six feet on the south side and ninetv-six by eighty feet on the north side, and is laid out with six thousand feet of cement floor and twelve hundred feet of cement outside. A silo has been erected, equipped with trackage for cleaning out barn and carrying feed. A cement water tank, with a capacity of fifty barrels, has also been erected. Mr. Shirley has been township trustee of Perry township for one term, and has also been a member of the board of school directors of Con- tinental city schools three different times. He is not now active. He is a stanch Democrat. He is a member of the United Brethren church at Con- tinental, and has always taken a prominent part in church work. He has held most of the offices in the church, and is now secretary of the congre- gation, a circuit comprising five churches. He is also actively identified with the Sunday school, is a class leader and a teacher of the young men's and PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 603 women's bible class. Nathan C. Shirley is a strong advocate of temperance, and, locally, has been closely identified with the farmers' institute. He was among the organizers of the Continental Farmers' Institute. His wife and family are members of the United Brethren church and take an active inter- est in the work of the church. Nathan C. Shirley is a man well liked. He bears a high standing for honesty of purpose and integrity in the commun- ity where he lives, is a man of strong and fixed convictions, and is frank and open in his dealings with his fellow men. In every way he is entitled to representation in this volume. WILLIAM J. UNTERBRINK. Putnam county has been fortunate in the number and character of its farmers, those advance agents of civilization and indispensable aids to social -and industrial development. The farmer is recognized as an institution and no other agency has done so much for the world in general. This is par- ticularly true of Putnam county. Some men grow tired and others weary of the march, and fall out, but the enterprising, up-to-date farmer who works with a vision never ceases in his endeavor. Of the industrious and self- -sacrificing farmers of Putnam county, men who have succeeded in a large way, is William J. Unterbrink, a well-known farmer of Greensburg town- ship. Mr. Unterbrink has contributed financially and otherwise in develop- ing and upbuilding this great county. His work has been unselfish for the -most part, but he has managed to acquire a large farm and is one of the most progressive farmers of this section of the state. William J. Unterbring was born on September 15, 1866, in the house where he now lives, in section 14, Greensburg township. He is the son of Ferdinand and Mary G. (Rotterman) Unterbrink. Ferdinand Unterbrink was born in the German empire on November -29, 1824, and died in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, July 14, 1895. He was a son of John H. and Maria G. (Meilenbrink) Unterbrink, who settled in this county in 1841. The wife of John H. Unterbrink was Maria G., who was born in Germany on April 30, 1835, and who was the daughter of Herman H. and Maria G. (Kamper) Rotterman, who came to this country in 1838. She was married to Ferdinand Unterbrink in this -county, on September 7, 1852. Ferdinand Unterbrink was a farmer in '■Greensburg township who served as a member of the board of county com- 6o4 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. missioners in Putnam county, and who held several other important offices He had a family of eleven children: Anna M., the wife of Judge Joseph Mersman, of Ottawa; Bernard H., of Cloverdale, Putnam county; Joseph who hves north of Glandorf, in Ottawa township; Frank R, of Ottawa' Ignatius lives at Riviera, Texas; Maria C, deceased, was the wife of Will- iam Schmiedebusch, who resided at Cloverdale; William John of Greens- burg township; John R., of Lima; Herman H., of Ottawa, where he is pro- bation officer; Albert F., of Ottawa, and Amelia M., the wife of Anthony B Overman, of Ottawa. The mother of these children died on June 28, 1914 Ferdinand Unterbrink was county commissioner six years. Before that he was justice of the peace in Greensburg township for many years. He was- one of the most successful farmers in Greensburg township. He came here a very poor man and started in the woods. He worked at digging the canal in the west part of the county at thirty cents a day and boarded himself He was diligent and a good manager and owned about three hundred and forty acres of land at one time ; he owned a number of different farms His home farm was a beautiful place. He and the family all belong to the St John's Catholic church. He was a rock-ribbed Democrat in politics. In his youth he taught school in Greensburg township and was one of the first teachers there, making it a point to see that each child learned something every day. He was a very practical man, able to accomplish much where others, perhaps would have failed. He was a man to whom many came for advice regarding their own personal affairs, as he was regarded as being possessed of keen insight and sound judgment and took a kindly interest in assisting others. Ferdinand Unterbrink came to America when about seventeen years old with his parents and sisters. Here he bought a farm m section 14, Greens- burg township, which was all covered with timber, the country being still new. Here his parents lived and died and here he spent his life, engaged as a life- long farmer. His wife, Mary G. (Rotterman) Unterbrink was born in Ger- many and came to this country in her infancy, with her parents. William J. Unterbrink is one of eleven children, eight boys and three girls, as heretofore related. He grew up on the home farm. In 1892 he was married to Magdelina Kracht. She was born in Glandorf, Germany, on April 14, 1825, and is the daughter of William and Anna Catherine (Doep- ker) Kracht. William Kracht was born in Glandorf, Hanover, Germany, February 28, 1818. He came to Cincinnati when a young man and was there married to Anna Catherine Doepker. She was born in Glandorf, Hanover, and came to America while a girl, after her parents died in Germany. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Kracht lived in Cincinnati for several years PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 605 Subsequently, Mr. and Mrs. Kracht settled about a mile north of Glan- dorf, and there they lived many years. They spent their last years in Clover- dale. Mr. and Mrs. William J. Unterbrink for many years have lived on the same farm where Mr. Unterbrink was born. He owns one hundred and eighty acres of fine farming land and has added excellent improvements to the farm, which was formerly owned by his father. To Mr. and Mrs. William J. Unterbrink five children have been born, as follow: Alfred, on September 15, 1894; Lawrence, on November 9, 1898; Idella, on April 10, 1902; Marcella, on March 9, 1905, and William, on July 4, 1907. The family has a fine country home with beautiful surroundings. There is a private lighting plant in the house. The Unterbrinks are as fine people as are to be found anywhere in Putnam county and all of them are devout members of the Catholic church, at Glandorf. HARRY E. BRINKMAN. Harry E. Brinkman is a representative farmer and stock raiser of •Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, and is known as one of the alert, progressive and successful agriculturists of this favored section of the Buckeye state. In his labors he has not permitted himself to follow in a rut in a blind, apathetic way, but has studied and experimented and thus •obtained the maximum returns from his enterprising efl^orts. At the same time, he has so directed his career at all times as to command the confidence and regard of the people of the community where he lives. He is a man of honorable business methods and advocates strenuously whatever tends to promote the public welfare. Harry E. Brinkman was born November 11, 1887, on the farm where he now lives in the center of Greensburg township. He is the son of John H. and Philomina (Maag) Brinkman. John H. Brinkman was also born on the same farm in 1848 and is the son of Johann Henry and Mary Gertrude (Rieman) Brinkman. Johann Henry Brinkman was born in Oldenburg, November 8, 1802, and was the son of Johann Rudolph and Elizabeth Jo- hann (Bergmann) Brinkman. He died in 1890 at the age of eighty-seven years and nine months. Johann Henry Brinkman lived in Germany until he was twenty-eight years old and then came to America. He was among the very early settlers in Greensburg township. ^°^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Johann Henry Brinkman purchased land in section 15 in an early day when the country was all new, not a road and not even a track having- been laid. A trail was blazed to Glandorf settlement and to other neighbor- ing points and at night hickory bark torches were carried. He started with a most primitive cabin and did not have a fireplace. There was no floor and the fire was built in a hole in the middle of the cabin. There was no drainage- and at times water flooded the cabin. It was not unusual on arising in the morning to find their wooden shoes floating and the fire drowned out Al- though It was necessary to endure many hardships, yet these early pioneers bore them cheerfully because their work meant a home for them and their children. In the old country, the earnings only went to enrich the land- owners. Here, Johann Henry Brinkman spent his life, clearing the land and rearing his family. His wife was born, January 22, 1829, in Osna- bruck, Germany. She came to America with her parents when she was three years old. She was the daughter of John H. and Mary Elizabeth (Fhone) Rieman, who came to America in 1832 and lived at Cincinnati a few years, when they came to Glandorf. They purchased a farm on the- northwest edge of Ottawa township, west of Glandorf. There Mary Ger- trude Rieman grew to womanhood and was married. On the farm, in section 15, John Henry Brinkman grew up among the pioneers and here was married on October 28, 1872, to Philmonia May Mag. She was born one miles west of Glandorf church on May 14 18 si and was the daughter of Theodore and Catherine (Purs) Maag Theodore Maag was born in Glandorf, Hanover, Germany, in May, 1807, and grew up there. When a young man he came to Cincinnati and was there mar- ried to Catherine Purs, who was born in Glandorf, Hanover, December 8, 1813. She came to America at the age of twenty-two and went immediately to Cincinnati. At the age of twenty-three she was married to Theodore Maag. Two years later they moved to the west edge of Ottawa townshit> and m 18"^ ^«*4-i„j _ — :i- . r ^ ^ settled a mile west of Glandorf in the new country, where tim- ber covered the land and wild animals abounded. Theodore Maag was away from home much of the time working on the canal. His wife and two babies were compelled to stay alone, while the Indians roamed nearby through the woods. After John H. Brinkman and wife were married they lived on the Brinkman farm. He was a lifelong farmer and very successful. He man- aged to acquire a good farm and owned two hundred and forty acres. He was public spirited and held various township offices at different times. He be- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 607 gan life with eighty acres and after his father's death, bought his sisters interest in his father's farm of one hundred and sixty acres. John H. Brink- man was an able farmer and could plow a long furrow as straight as a rule,, having a good eye for distance and levels. He raised thoroughbred cattle, hogs and sheep, and took great interest in his live stock. He was known by all as a good neighbor, a man of sound judgment and reliable. He was a man of much value to his community. His traits have been largely trans- mitted to his son, the subject of this sketch, who is like his father and one of the well-known citizens of this township. John H. Brinkman died on- January i6, 19 lo, leaving a widow and two sons. A daughter, Mary Fran- ces, died at the age of sixteen. The two sons are Frank and Harry, both of whom hve on the home farm with their mother. Harry E. Brinkman man- ages the farm and since his father's death has added improvements to the- place. Herry E. Brinkman was married on August 12, 1913, to Mary Eliza- beth Rose. She was born at Fort Jennings, Putnam county, and is the daughter of Alton and Bernardine (Pavel) Rose. Anton Rose was born at Ottoville, Putnam county, December 25, 1861, the son of Adolph and Cath- erine (Mersman) Rose. Adolph Rose came from Germany and owned a farm on the canal not far from Ottoville. Later, he moved to Fort Jen- nings. Catherine Mersman was from Glandorf, Germany, and came to this country at the age of eight years. Anton Rose was an engineer at Fort- Jennings. Three years ago he moved to Delphos, where he now lives. His wife was born two and one-half miles south of Ottoville, along the canal, and was the daughter of Henry Pavel and wife. Mary Elizabeth Rose grew up at Fort Jennings, where she lived until she was seventeen years old; since that time she has lived in Greensburg township. To Mr. and Mrs. Harry E. Brinkman one son, Cornelius Anton. Johann, was born on February 2, 1914. Harry E. Brinkman is secretary of the Farmers Mutual Telephone Company. The family all belong to the Catholic church at Glandorf and are faithful to their religion. The family are kind and hospitable and well liked by all who know them. It is a pleasure to see the live stock which Mr. Brinkman raises. It is not only good stock but is well kept. He uses the very latest methods in his farm management and is in every respect a truly progressive farmer. He is one of the leading citizens of Putnam county and a man whom one does not soon forget. ■6o8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. SANFORD SMITH. The business of farming has been revolutionized within the last fifty years and the farmer of today knows few of the disadvantages which sur- rounded pioneer fanners of Ohio. Scores of inventions have been put on the market which enable the farmer to lead a life of ease as compared with the arduous labors which his father had to undergo. The result is that an ever-increasing number of our best young men are remaining on the farm in preference to trying their fortunes in the citi»s. The farmer is certainly the most independent man of the country, and all other professions and occu- pations must bow to him. Ohio is known throughout the length and breadth of the country as one of the best agricultural states in the union, and Putnam county ranks with the best farming sections of the state. Put- nam county farmers are not to be excelled by any other county, and among its many excellent farmers no one occupies a more prominent place than Sanford Smith, the subject of this review. The ancestral history of Sanford Smith has been intimately identified with the pioneer annals of Putnam county and the state of Ohio. Sanford Smith is the son of Adam and Margaret (Shouse) Smith, and was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, April i6, 1857. Adam Smith was the son of Robert Smith, a native of Scotland, who immigrated to America Avithhis brother, William. They settled in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, and there were, tailors. Robert Smith married Elizabeth Little, a native of Somerset county, and the daughter of Adam and Mary Little. After three ■children had been born, they removed to Harrison county, Ohio, in 1826, and subsequently, removed to Tuscarawas county, where they died. Robert Smith was an old-line Whig. He and his wife were stanch members of the Presbyterian church. They had eight children, Adam, Leonard, Mary A., Thomas, John, Robert B., Harvey and David. Adam Smith, the father of Sanford, was born on June 20, 182 1, in Somerset county and came with his parents to Ohio. He also moved 4ith his parents to Carroll county, Ohio, and in this county was married to Mar- garet Shouse, m 1844. She was born on October 3, 1820, and was the daughter of Barnard and Rachel (Palmer) Shouse, the former a native of Pennsylvania, who migrated to Carroll county at the age of sixteen years and was a school teacher there. Barnard Shouse was an old-line Whio- and he and his family were members of the Presbyterian church Subse"- quently, they moved to Decatur county, Indiana, where they died Sanford Smith was one of ten children born to his parents The 7: PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 609 Others were Sylvester, deceased; Mary E., deceased; William C; Salathiel L.; Arthur L.; Nettie J., the wife of J. C. M. Doenges; Lorenzo; Madison S. and Edson E., deceased. Lorenzo is the twin brother of Sanford. Adam and Margaret Smith resided in Carroll county two years and then removed to Tuscarawas county, where they lived until 1859, when they moved to Hancock county. They moved to Putnam county in i860. Mrs. Margaret Smith died on July 23, 1907, at the age of eighty seven years. Her death occurred on the homestead farm, in Monroe township. The tract of land comprises two hundred and forty acres and, it was here also, that Adam Smith died on November 17, 1880. Adam and Margaret Smith were members of the Methodist church and influential citizens throughout their lives in the history of Putnam county. Sanford Smith remained on the homestead farm with his mother after the death of his father, until December 14, 1909, when he was married to Mrs. Zella D. Hager, the daughter of Jacob and Nancy E. (Hutchinson) Dickey. The family history of Mrs. Smith will be found in the sketch of S. M. Dickey, which appears elsewhere in this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Smith no children have been born. Through- out his life, Mr. Smith has been an ardent member of the Republican party and influential locally in the councils of his party. He now has a good farm of one hundred and forty-five acres, having begun with forty acres deeded to him by his mother., Sanford Smith is a quiet, unassuming man' congenial with his neighbors and favorably known in this locality. Mrs. Smith taught school for twelve years in Paulding county, Ohio. She taught her first year when but sixteen years of ao-e. Mrs. Smith has two daughters by her first marriage, Ethel C, now the wife of E. D. Harpster, who lives near Continental, Ohio ■ Beatrice C wife of Charies W. Mansfield, of Defiance, Ohio, he being the only son of Lot W. and Lottie R. (Doenges) Mansfield. THOMAS C. HIPKINS. One of the most highly esteemed citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, is Thomas C. Hipkms, who was born at Gilboa, Putnam county, Ohio, Septem- ber 3, 1850. He IS a son of Thomas H. B. and Margaret (Fishel) Hipkins, and one of five children born to his parents. The other children are as fol- low: Christian Rudy, born on August 20, 1839, deceased; Luceria, born on 39 6lO PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. May 4, 1843, deceased; Winfield Scott, born on October 15, 1847, deceased,, and Harriett V., of Ottawa. All of the three sons served in the Civil War. Thomas H. B. Hipkins was born at Prospect Hill, Harford county,. Maryland, on January 28, 1813, and located in Putnam county in 1841. His father, Charles G. Hipkins, died in 18 17, and his mother, Elizabeth, passed away in 1832. Thomas H. B. Hipkins was married in Hancock county, Ohio, on September 10, 1838, to Margaret, the daughter of John and Catherine Fishel. Mr. Fishel died in 1845 a-nd his wife passed away in 1821. Margaret Fishel was born in Frankhn county, Ohio, on June 17, 181 7, and died in 1890. He was engaged in the mercantile business in Gilboa, Putnam county, in 1845, and removed his store to Ottawa in 1856, where he continued in business until his death, in 1880. After the death of Thomas H. B. Hipkins in 1880, his sons, Winfield S. and Thomas Corwin, continued the business in partnership, until Winfield S. died in 1907. For the next five years Thomas C. continued alone, after which he took his son, W. S., in with him as a partner, and they are now conducting the same line of business which was established in 1845, i" this county. Thomas C. Hipkins enlisted in the Civil War in October, 1864, as a mem- ber of Company K, One Hundred and Eighty-second Regiment, Ohio Vol- unteer liifantry. He was only one month past his fourteenth birthday at the time of his enlistment, which entitles him to the honor of being one of the youngest soldiers in the state to enlist in the war. He served until he was mustered out at Nashville in July, 1865. After he returned from the Civil War, he attended Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, for one year. He then obtained a position in the St. Louis branch of the A. T. Stewart Dry Goods Company. During the year he was in St. Louis, he received a very broad training in general mercantile affairs. He then returned to his home in Ottawa, Ohio, and he and his brother, Winfield S., took charge of their father's store. The brothers continued in partnership until the death of Winfield S. Mr. Hipkins was married in 1884 to Mrs. Rhoda Belle (Pitney) Wood- ruff, the daughter of Abijah and Rachel (Wheeler) Pitney. Mrs. Hipkins. came to Putnam county with her parents, who located in Blanchard township, and spent the remainder of their lives there on a farm. She married James- Woodruff, who died within sixty days after their marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Hipkins have five children : Eva, who is the wife of John Schafer, Jr., of Cleveland, Ohio, and has two children, Virginia and John Thomas ; Margaret is a teacher in the kindergarten schools of Spring City, Utah ; Winfield Scott, who is a partner with his father in the dry goods business in Ottawa ; Ruth, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. gn who is a nurse in the Lutheran hospital at Cleveland; Thomas C, Jr., who is still attending school, and is a wholesale dealer in eggs. One daughter, Mary, died at the age of eleven months. Mr. and Mrs. Hipkins and all of the children belong to the Methodist Episcopal church and all are active workers in the church and Sunday school. Mr. Hipkins is a trustee of the church and also a member of the board of stewards. His fraternal connections are with the Free and Accepted Masons. For more than seventy years the Hipkins store has stood in the front rank of the mercantile establishments of Putnam county, and with the young blood infused into it, in the young junior partner, the firm may reasonably expect to exist long after its first century birthday. JOHN BEARD. To write the personal records of men who have raised themselves from humble circumstances to positions of responsibility and trust in the commun- ity, is no ordinary pleasure. Self-made men, men who have achieved success -by reason of their personal qualities, and left the impress of their individual- ity upon the business growth of their place of residence, affect for good such institutions as are embraced in the sphere of their usefulness. Unwittingly, perhaps, they build monuments more enduring than marble obelisk or granite shaft. One of the men, who is a well-known farmer of Greensburg township who falls in this class is John Beard. Mr. Beard was born in 1830, in Fairfield county, Ohio. He is the son of John Beard, Sr., and Mary (Carey) Beard. John Beard's paternal grandfather was a native of Ireland, who settled m the state of Maryland, where he was well known as a teacher. He lived to the remarkable age of one hundred years. John Beard, Sr., the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in North Carolina, and came to Fairfield county, Ohio, when a young man. Mary Carey was born in Maryland July 4, 1802. She was the daughter of John and Mary Carey. To this union were born SIX children: Mrs. Margaret Pickering, George, Jacob, Samuel, John and Cornelius. John Beard, Sr., was a miller by trade, who died of the Cholera in 1832. His widow subsequently married J. M. Allen and after bearing him six children, died on January 13, 1889. John Beard was reared as a farmer and educated in the common schools He left home at the age of fourteen, and for a time worked by the month as a farmer. In the meantime, he prepared himself for teaching, and in the fall 6l2 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of 1855, taught his first school at Cuba, in Putnam county. He taught during four winter terms at this place, continuing his professional work until 1866, in Greensburg and Jackson townships, and at the public schools at Fort Jennings. In 1856, Mr. Beard purchased a farm of eighty acres, investing twenty dollars in the farm. He made some improvements upon this place, and in 1865, removed to Franklin county, Ohio. He purchased a farm southeast of Fort Jennings, in 1866, on his return to Putnam county, and lived here until he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty-five acres in Greensburg town- ship, in 1872. John Beard was married on November 2, 1854, at Columbus, Ohio, to Mary Jane Case, a native of New York state, and the daughter of Jacob and Anna Case. They moved to Fairfield county, Ohio, near Runnelsburg in the early days, and there Mrs. Beard lived until her marriage. Two children were born to this marriage : William H., who died in infancy, and Charles W., of Greensburg township. Mrs. Beard died in 1866, and on September 22, 1867, Mr. Beard was married to Mrs. Sophia (Shank) Guyton, who was born in Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, and who was the daughter of Henry and Barbara (Meyers) Shank, natives of Maryland. Henry Shank was born near Hagerstown, Maryland, and was the son of Christian Shank, Sr. Bar- bara Meyers was born in Maryland, and was the daughter of John and Mary Meyers. She was married in Maryland to Henry Shank, and came here soon after her marriage. They settled north of the Blanchard river, and south of Defiance pike, in the northwestern part of Ottawa township, where they en- tered the land from the government. The Indians were still here and no roads but Indian paths led from their home to Ottawa. Here her father spent the rest of his life. After his death, the widow moved to a farm she owned neared Kalida, and spent the remainder of her life at that place. To this second marriage of Mr. Beard, six children were born. Christian Beard is now farming six miles south of Auburn, Indiana. He married Maude Bibler, and they have four children : Joyce, Elsie, Samuel and Charles. Lucy A. became the wife of John Bibler; they live in the northwestern part of Greensburg township ; they have had ten children, of whom two died and eight are living: Flossie, Fay, Velma, Coral, Ella, Delia, Raymond, Dale, Pauline and Woodrow Wilson. John F. lives near Edgerton, Ohio. He married Mary Wynkoop, and they have four children, John Milton, Icy, Pres- ton and Zola. Margaret died in infancy. Ella S. is the wife of Clyde M. Fletcher, and lives on her father's farm. They have one son, Paul Clarence Fletcher. Samuel S. lives south of Kalida, and married Minnie Kirkendall, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 613 and they had four children, three of whom are hving, Doyle, Helen and Annabel. In 1874, Mr. Beard erected a substantial dwelling on his farm. In poli- tics, Mr. Beard is a Prohibitionist. In 1857, he was elected justice of the peace, serving until 1864; he was re-elected in 1872, and severed a consider- able time since that date. In 1880, Mr. Beard was appointed as land appraiser. He has served as school director, off and on, for a period of thirty-five years. He is naturally interested in education, because of his long experience as a public school teacher, in Jennings and Jackson townships. Mr. Beard has had affiliation with the Masonic order since 1861, being a member of the lodge at Delphos. He has been a prominent Sunday school worker and is a member of the Christian church. HIRAM A. ROBERTS. In Putnam county there are many enterprising and progressive farmers, who keep fully abreast of all the modern advances in the theory and practice of successful agricuhure; men who are constantly and carefully noting the wonderful experimental and research work of the government and state de- partment of agriculture, and who quickly avail themselves of the profound results of such research, putting to the test on their own farms such official conclusions as seem best adapted to the variety or quality of the soil with which they have to work. These men, in the very nature of things, are mak- ing a success of their work. They are not included in that large number of grumblers which may be found in most any community, but are to be found among the even larger class of generous, open-minded, optimistic men, who are the real leaders in the advanced movements of mankind; men whom it is a pleasure to know; men who are the real makers of a community, the natural conservators of a neighborhood's best interests. In this latter class of farmers in this county, there are few who have a larger acquaintance or are better liked than the gentleman whose name is noted above, one of the most popular and successful farmers of Monroe township, whose quiet, unos- tentatious progress in the community in which he lives, certainly entitles him to be included in the large list of successful men of Putnam county, brief biographies of whom are contained in this interesting and valuable historical work. Hiram A. Roberts was born in Oskalusa, Mahaska county, Iowa, on February 19, 1858, the son of Thomas N. and Mary Jane (Bussart) Roberts, 6l4 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. the former of whom was born in Allen county, Ohio, in 1829, the son of David Roberts, one of the pioneers of that section of the state. David Roberts was a native of Wales, who, with his wife, came to America in the early part of the last century and settled in Allen county, Ohio, where he became a large landowner and a man of much influence in his community, his farm having been situated near the town of Gomar. Upon the death of his wife, in 1844, David Roberts sold his interests in Ohio and moved to Iowa, where he spent the rest of his life. With the excepttion of two years which he spent in Iowa, Thomas Rob- erts, father of the immediate subject of this sketch, spent his entire life in Allen county, Ohio, where he died in 1861, at the age of thirty-two years, his son, Hiram A., being at that time but three years of age. Thomas Roberts was a good farmer, ^ highly respected citizen and a man of sterling character. He was married in Allen county to Mary Jane Bussart, who was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, and who moved to Allen county with her parents when she was but six months of age, and there grew to womanhood, making her home in that county for many years. She now makes her home with her son, Hiram A., in this county, being hale and hearty, at the ripe old age of eighty-two. To Thomas and Mary Jane (Bussart) Roberts were born three children, as follow: John, a well-known resident of Columbus Grove, Putnam county, Ohio; Hiram A., of whom more later, and Sarah E., the widow of Edward Tracy, who now makes her home with her brother in Monroe township. To Edward and Sarah E. (Roberts) Tracy were born four children, Frank, Clar- ence, John and one who died in infancy. Frank and John make their home with their mother on the farm of their uncle Hiram and Clarence married Carrie Reynolds and is farming in Monroe township, living near Hartsburg. Hiram A. Roberts left Allen county in 1880, coming to Putnam county, where he bought his present fine farm of seventy-seven acres in Monroe town- ship, on which he since has made his home. On this he erected a modern country home, one of the finest in the county, where, with his mother and sister and the sons of the latter, he is living very happily and comfortably. He is a man of progressive ideas and on his small, compact farm he gets better results than many men obtain from a much larger acreage. The spirit of progress which animates him is reflected in the well-kept appearance of his place, barns, outbuildings, fences and drainage, all bespeaking a farmer who takes a pride in his great calling. The same spirit that keeps him alive to the needs of his farm, keeps Mr. Roberts fully alive to the needs of the community in which he lives, and he is regarded as among the foremost men of his neighborhood, being ever active PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 615 in all movements designed to advance the common interest. He is a Republi- can and in the political campaigns in this county, ever is found promoting the cause of good government. He is a kind son and indulgent brother and his genial manners and high reputation for honesty and integrity make him a prime favorite in his community, wrhere he is regarded with esteem by all who know him, the number of his friends being limited only by the number of his acquaintances. DR. ERNEST PLUMMER LEMLEY. Dr. Ernest Plummer Lemley, devoted to the noble work which his pro- fession implies, has been faithful and indefatigable in his endeavors. He has not only earned the due rewards of his efforts in a temporal way, but has also proved himself eminently worthy to exercise the important functions of his calling, by reason of his ability, his abiding sympathy and his earnest zeal in behalf of his fellow men. His understanding of the science of medicine is regarded by those who know him, as broad and comprehensive. The pro- fession and the public accord to him a distinguished place among the men of his class in the state of Ohio. He has been a life of sincere and persistent en- deavor, such as always brings a true appreciation of the real value of human existence — a condition that ever must be prolific of good results in all the relations of life. Dr. Ernest Plummer Lemley was born on May 31, 1874, at Cass- ville, Monongalia county, West Virginia. He is the son of Alexander and Lucy (Tucker) Lemley. Alexander Lemley was a native of West Vir- ginia, born there on April 28, 1841. He died on September 26, 1906, at the age of sixty-five. He always lived in West Virginia, and was a life-long farmer and a stanch Republican in politics. He attended the Methodist ■church during all his life, but was not a member'.- As a farmer he cultivated about two hundred and twenty-five acres of land, and was considered success- ful in all his farming operations. His wife, who was Lucy Tucker before her marriage, was a native of West Virginia, born there on April 11, 1854, and is still living in West Virginia at the age of sixty years. Alexander and Lucy (Tucker) Lemley were the parents of six children, of whom Dr. Ernest Plummer Lemley was the eldest; Mrs. Gertie Core lives in West Virginia; Clyde, Mrs. Elizabeth Core, Herbert and Lena, all live in West Virginia. Dr. Lemley spent his boyhood days in West Virginia, on the homestead farm, and lived here until he was about twenty years old. He was educated 6l6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. in the common schools and spent two years in the West Virginia State Uni- versity. Subsequently, he attended the Barnes Medical College at St. Louis,, graduating with the class of 1898. In the fall of that year he began the prac- tice of his profession at Columbus Grove, and continued there for two years^ coming in 1900 to Vaughnsville, to take up the McKinley office and practice. He is a general physician, and is still actively engaged in the practice. Dr. Lemley was married on August 30, 1900, to Claudia Layman, a native of Putnam county, born in Pleasant township, and a daughter of Josephus and Clarinda (Rorhr) Layman. Dr. and Mrs. Lemley have no children. They have, however, adopted a boy, Richard, and are rearing a girl, Leota Meridith, whom they have, however, not adopted. Fraternally, Dr. Lemley is a member of the Knights of Pythias and Maccabees at Vaughnsville, and is a Modern Woodman of America at Co- lumbus Grove. Politically, he is a Republican, and has served as township treasurer of Sugar Creek township for two terms, filling this office with effi- ciency and credit to the people of this township and to himself. Dr. and Mrs. Lemley are members of the Congregational church at Vaughnsville, the Doctor being treasurer of the congregation. He is a member of the County, State and Northwestern Ohio Medical Societies. He is a booster for Vaughnsville and enjoys a large practice, standing, as he does, highly in his community as a man and as a physician. DAVID HOMER GROFF. Clearly defined purpose and consecutive effort in the affairs of life will inevitably result in attaining a due measure of success. In following the career of one who has attained such unqualified success by his own efforts, there comes into view the intrinsic individuality which made such an accom- plishment possible. But there is granted an objective inspiration and there is kindled at the same time a feeling of respect and admiration. The quali- ties which have made David Homer Groff one of the prominent and suc- cessful farmers of Putnam county, have also won for him the esteem of his fellow citizens. His career has been one of well directed energy, strong de- termination and honorable methods. David Homer Groff was born on March 30, 1866, at Weston, Wood county, Ohio. He is the son of Martin Luther and Elizabeth (Campbell) Groff, the former of whom vvas born on February 22, 1830, at Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He left there at the age of twelve years, and came to Wes- o DAVID HO.MKR (JROFF, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 617 ton, Ohio, about 1852, where he settled south of the town on a farm, and where he remained until his retirement, when he moved to Weston, Ohio. He died on January 31, 19 14, at the age of eighty-four years. At the time of his death he owned one hundred and twenty acres of land, most of which was divided among his children. The children born to Martin Luther and Elizabeth (Campbell) Groff are as follow: Electa (Conklin), who lives north of Weston, Ohio; George,, who lives south of Weston, Ohio; David Homer, the subject of this sketch; Charles, who lives at Deshler, Ohio; Ona, born on August 2, 1870, and who died on October 25, 1905 ; Mrs. Vinnie Walsh, who lives in Chicago,, and Mrs. Maude Long, at Cleveland, Ohio. The mother of these children was born in Crawford county, Ohio, No- vember 25, 1835, and died at the age of sixty-six years, December 23, 1901. She came to Milton township. Wood county, Ohio, from Crawford county,. with her parents about 1855, and was married on December 8, 1861. She was a faithful Christian woman throughout her life, and was beloved by all who knew her. Her brothers served in the War of the Rebellion, and two of them, Enoch and Nelson, returned alive. David Homer Groff spent his boyhood days at Weston, Wood county,. Ohio. He was reared on the farm and remained on the home place until he was twenty-two years of age, when he went into the milling business. He ran a mill for a year when it burned, and he came to Continental, Ohio,, in the fall of 1890, where he was married. He returned to the old home- stead farm, but before going back he ran a feed store for a short time, re- turning in the spring of 18.91. He farmed the homestead farm for about five years and then bought one hundred and sixty acres of brush land near North Creek, Putnam county, in Monroe township. This land was cleared and ditched and put into shape for farming. Mr. Goff sold this land in 1903 and moved on a farm which he had previously purchased, east of Continental. He was here one year and then came to his present farm of one hundred and sixty acres in 1905. He has since added ninety acres, having about two hundred and fifty acres at the present time. Although this land was nearly all cleared when Mr. Goff purchased it, there were no fences or buildings. All of the improvements have been made by him. In the spring of 191 1 he commenced a modern country residence, which was finished in 191 2. This house has hot water heat, electric lights, etc., and is conceded to be the finest home in the county. Mr. Groff was married on February 17, 1891, to Ora B. Andrews, who was born on November 18, 1871, in Wisconsin, and who is the daughter 6l8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. •of John Horace and Laura (Price) Andrews. To this happy union four •children have been born: Floyd, who married Mary Shirley, lives on the home place; Bernice, Beatrice and Ima are at home. Mr. Groff is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at ■Continental. He is identified with the Republican party, but is more or less independent in his voting. Mrs. Groff is a member of the United Brethren •church, where the children are also communicants. Mr. Groff has not held •any offices, with the exception of that of member of the school board in Wood county, Ohio. He is well and favorably known throughout Putnam •county, and is popular with his neighbors, and, in fact, with all in Monroe township. Mr. Groff was one of the leading factors in the organization of the Farmers State Bank of Continental, of which he is a director. He, with William H. Lowe and Charles E. Wight, were a committee who drew up plans and caused to be erected the Odd Fellow building at that place. RUFUS E. GILBERT. Ohio has been especially honored in the character and career of her farm- ers. In every section have been found men born to leadership in agriculture, men who have dominated their communities because of their superior intelli- gence, natural endowment and force of character. Rufus E. Gilbert is a man well known throughout Putnam county. Mr. Gilbert traces his ancestry back to substantial Irish stock, which has been prominently identified with the his- tory of this country, since its earliest days. Rufus E. Gilbert was born, February 21, 1844, in Summit county, near ■Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. He is the son of Jacob C. and Martha A. Butler ■Gilbert. Jacob C. Gilbert was born in October, 1807, 'North Hero Island, New York, and was reared as a farmer. He received a good practical educa- tion, and was married when twenty-five years old, or in 1832, to Mandana Stoughton. She died on July 3, 1832. Upwards of five years later, on January i, 1838, Jacob C. Gilbert married Martha A. Butler, in Atwater, Portage county, Ohio. She was born on November 16, 1820, in New Haven ■county, Connecticut, and was the daughter of David and Betsey (Foot) Butler, the former of whom was born in New Haven county, Connecticut, on ■October 2, 1772, and the latter of whom was born in the same county, on August 9, 1 78 1. They remained in Connecticut until 1829, when they emi- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 619 grated to Portage county, Ohio, and stayed here until their death. David Butler died on March 29, 1856, and his wife on August 3, 1854. They were members of the Congressional church, and he was an old-line Whig. Mrs. Jacob C. Gilbert's grandfather was Matthew Butler, a native of England, who came to New Haven county, Connecticut, in colonial times. He served in the Continental army during the Revolutionary War, for seven years. He married Ruth Lindley. They had a son, David, who also served in the Revolutionary War, especially as a minute man, at the battle of Long Island. Jacob C. and Martha A. Gilbert had several children : Lucian, Lucius, Ruf us E., the subject of this sketch; Martha, Mary E., who married Henry Wing; Adelaid, deceased; Ida M., who married David Owens, and Prosper L.' Jacob C. and Martha A. (Butler) Gilbert settled first in Summit county, •Ohio, where both he and his wife taught school. In fact, they met while both were public school teachers. He then came to Cleveland, Ohio, where he spent three years and removed to Putnam county, Ohio, in December, 1858, settling -in Monroe township, on a farm of forty acres. He taught school in Putnam county, and in Defiance county, but most of the time in the former, until his death. On account of poor health he was not able to do farm work. Jacob C. Gilbert died on December 16, 1864, at the age of fifty-seven years and ten months. There were only forty voters in Monroe township when he settled here, and during his life he saw the population of the township grow ^exceedingly. His wife, Martha A. (Butler) Gilbert, died on the old home farm in June, 1903, at the age of eighty-two years and five months. Of the ■«ight children, heretofore mentioned, who were born to Jacob C. and Martha A. (Butler) Gilbert, only four are now living. Lucius B., who was born on November 2, 1838, and died on August 5, 1839; Lucian De Loss, who was born on September 22, 1840, and died on July 2, 1847; Martha, who was .born on August 20, 1847, and died on April 7, 1857; Mrs. Mary E. Wing, who was born on August 9, 1849, and now living on a farm in Monroe town- ship; Sarah Adelaide was born on July 30, 1854, and died on October 3, 1862; Ida M., who was born on September 15, 1859, and who married David Owens, lives at Continental, Ohio; Prosper L., who was born on July 6, 1863, lives near the Columbia river, in the state of Washington. Rufus E. Gilbert remained in Cleveland, Ohio, with his parents for three years, after they removed to that city. He attended the public schools of the forest city. He came with his parents to Putnam county, Ohio, and assisted his father with the work of the farm. On August 22, 1862, Mr. Gilbert enlisted in Company H., One Hun- ■dred and Eighteenth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving in Ken- ^^° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. tucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North and South Carolina, and Vir- ginia, and participating in all the engagements of the Atlanta campaign. He was honorably discharged on May 25, 1865, and returned home to resume the peaceful pursuits, which his courage and the courage of his fellows had secured to this country. Mr. Gilbert was married on July 19, 1866, to Mary A. Pope, a native of Putnam county, and a daughter of George and Fanny (Weaver) Pope. Mr. Gilbert settled on the farm where they now live. They cleared most of the farm and have added to it, till they now own a hundred and seventy-one acres. Although Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert live on the farm, they are retired and the farm is rented out. They have no children. Politically, Mr. Gilbert is a Democrat. He was decennial appraiser of Continental and Monroe township in 1890, and was infirmary director for six years. He and his wife are members of the Mount Zion Chapel Christian church, of Monroe township. Mr. Gilbert is a pleasant man, intelligent and an interesting conversationalist. He is a man well liked and favorably known m this section of Putnam county, and bears a high reputation in the com- munity for honesty. MERRICK SKIVER. It is a pleasure to investigate the career of a successful self-made man. Peculiar honor attaches to that individual who, beginning the great struggle of life alone and unaided, gradually overcomes unfavorable environment, removes one by one the obstacles in the pathway of success, and by master strokes of his own force and vitality, succeeds in forging his way to the front and winning for himself a competency. Such is the record of Merrick Skiver, a popular citizen of Monroe township, to whose life and character the follow- ing pages are devoted. Merrick Skiver was born on June 25, 1849, m Highland township. De- fiance county, Ohio. He is a son of Isaac and Mary (Wheeler) Skiver, the former of whom was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, on March 12, 1826, and the latter of whom was born in Germany, on May 14, 1830. The grandfather of Merrick Skiver was David Skiver, who was bom about 1786, in Pennsylvania, and who settled in Tuscarawas county, Ohio in pioneer days. He was married to Sarah Warner. David Skiver was one' of the first settlers in Defiance county, Ohio, and lived there at a time when the Indians and wild beasts roamed the woods. For six years the Indians main- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 62 1 tained a camp near the Skiver family home. David Skiver was a Jacksonian Democrat, and a man who was prominent locally in politics. Mrs. Skiver was a member of the Christian church and the grandmother lived to the advanced age of one hundred and fourteen years. David Skiver was eighty-four years ■old at the time of his death. Isaac Skiver, the father of Merrick, was reared on a farm in Tuscarawas ■county, Ohio, and was a great hunter in his early days. He and his wife were the parents of nine children: Merrick, the immediate subject of this sketch; Margaret, the wife of James Van Vlerah; Regina, the wife of John Alspaugh; George Henry, of Defiance, Ohio; Josephine, the wife of William Austin, of Benson, Alabama; Clara, the wife of William Davis, deceased; Calvin A, a resident of Highland towjiship. Defiance county, Ohio; Anna Jane, deceased; Emma, the wife of Adam Stork, of Flint, Michigan, and Hannah, the wife of John James. Isaac Skiver died at the age of eighty-four years at the old homestead farm, while his wife died at Defiance, Ohio, at the home of a relative. Merrick Skiver received a good common' school education, and this he has supplemented by home study and by practical business experience, and today he is a well-informed man. Mr. Skiver was married on August 19, 1873, to Rosella Donaldson, who was born on October 4, 1852, in Union township, Putnam county, Ohio. She is a daughter of Aaron and Sarah A. Donaldson, the former of whom was a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, and who, in turn, was a son of John Donald- son. John Donaldson was born in Maryland in 1784, and married Mary Grubb in 1809, and was a captain in the War of 1812. He died at the age of ■sixty-four years. His wife, who was born in 1790, died at the age of eighty- two. Aaron Donaldson was born in 18 10, removed to Putnam county about 1850, settling on eighty acres of land in Union township. He lived on this farm until 1862, when he removed to a farm in Monroe township, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres. Aaron Donaldson married Sarah A. Sway- zee, a native of Fairfield county, born on December 20, 1827. Mr. and Mrs. Merrick Skiver are the parents of seven children : Olive, born on April 30, 1875, married Ora S. Hitchcock, June 15, 1902, lives in Toledo, Ohio; Elise, born on August 23, 1877, lives at home; Lavern! born on January 8, 1880, died May 14, 1884; Anna, born on November 7, 1881, died May I, 1884; Florence, born on January 12, 1886, is at home; Maude,' born on May 21, 1888, became the wife of Creede Porter, October 18, 1910, and lives at Defiance, Ohio, where Mr. Porter is employed in a steel mill; Violet, born on April 23, 1894, is at home. °^2 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. When Mr. Merrick first settled on his present farm, the land was covered with swamps, and entirely unreclaimed. So ably has he directed its improve- ment and cultivation, that his place is now one of the finest and most produc- tive farms in Putnam county, being equipped with a thorough system of dramage. Mr. Skiver has seen Putnam county transformed from a swampy wilderness into a favored and prosperous farming region. He is, in every respect, a successful farmer. Mr. Skiver has never been active in political matters, but he served as school director for a number of years. He is not active now. He is a con- genial man, a loving father and a kind husband, and has always been a good provider for the wants of his family. He has a fine farm and believes in progressive methods of farming, his farm proving this better than anything that can be said. He has been a hard worker, frugal in his habits and has acquired more than a substantial competence for his- old age. JOHN W. ERNST. The success of men in business or any vocation depends upon character as well as upon knowledge. Business demands confidence, and where that is lacking, business ends. In every community some men are known for their upright lives, strong common sense and moral worth, rather than for their wealth or political standing. Their neighbors and acquaintances respect them the younger generation heed their example, and when they wrap the drapery of their couches about them and lie down to pleasant dreams, posterity listens with reverence to the story of their useful lives. John W. Ernst, a well- known farmer of Monroe township, Putnam county, Ohio, who, until a few years ago, was the proprietor of the leading livery barn at Continental and who is now a prosperous farmer, is a man who belongs to this class. Mr. Ernst was born on October i, 1864, in Monroe, Allen county Ohio He IS the son of David and Mary Jane (Seibert) Ernst. David Ernst was born m 183 1, Carroll county, Ohio, and was the son of Henry Ernst, a native of Germany, and a pioneer in Carroll county, Ohio. David Ernst was reared as a farmer, and followed this vocation throughout his entire life His father also, was a farmer and a stanch member of the Methodist church Mrs. Mary Jane (Seibert) Ernst, the mother of David, was a native of Carroll county, Ohio, and the daughter of Samuel Seibert. She was born in 1836, and IS still living at Cairo, Ohio. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 623. To David and Mary Jane (Seibert) Ernst, eleven children were born: Samuel B., Sarah, Oliver A., Saloma, John W., Daniel C, Simon A., Burton H., William, Mary B. and Dollie May. David Ernst was a soldier in the Civil War. After serving his enlist- ment, he returned home and devoted the remainder of his life to his family and to his home, having, before his death in July, 1892, acquired a substantial competence. John W. Ernst, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm and lived with his parents until he was twenty-one years old. He received a good common-school education and was well equipped for life. In 1887, Mr. Ernst engaged in the livery business in Continental, and continued in this^ occupation until April, 1906, when he sold out to Charles Kalt, and retired to his splendid farm of forty acres west of Continental. At the time Mr. Ernst sold his livery business, he also sold his property in Continental. Mr. Ernst now follows general farming and the raising of grain and live stock. He is a man well known for his sterling character and dependable habits. He is a good judge of horses and now owns a fine white Arabian stallion. He has been closely identified with the history of Continental and was one of the pioneers of this town. He has witnessed many improvements and changes and has seen the town grow from small beginnings to its present proportions. Mr. Ernst has added to his original forty acres, until he now owns a hundred and five acres, all of which is located in Monroe township, Putnam county. John W. Ernst was married on September 11, 1892, to Mary E. Varner who was bom in Putnam county, Ohio, and who was the daughter of Isaiah Varner. Mrs. Ernst was born on September 26, 1869, in Greensburg town- ship, and died on April 12, 191 1, at the age of forty-one years, six months and fifteen days. She became a Christian early in life, uniting with the Methodist Episcopal church, of Continental. During her entire life she was a loving wife and a kind mother, and at the time of her death left a large circle of friends and relatives, including a father, mother, six brothers, two- sisters and five children. "A precious one from us has gone; A voice we loved is stilled ; A place is vacant in our home Which never can be filled. "God, in his wisdom, has recalled The boon his love had given, And though the body slumbers here, The soul is safe in Heaven." ,^24 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. To Mr and Mrs. Ernst six children were born : George F., who was born ,on November i, 1893, married Augusta Wright and lives on a f arm ,n Palmer township, Putnam county. They have one child Mary Marcelle. The other five children are: Manford Hebrew, born on March 20, 1896, Dewey Dow, born on May 22, 1898, died on July 6, 1899; Otto Kenneth, born on May 23, 1900; Oliver C, born on February 19, 1903, died on Febru- ary 20, 1903, and Fanny Lucile, born on May 12, 1907. Three, therefore, are living on the home farm. Mr Ernst, in politics, is a Democrat. He has served both as a member •of the town council of Continental and also as a member of the school board. He is one of Monroe township's trustees at present. In his many years resi- dence in Continental and vicinity, he has come to be one of the best-known -citizens in this section of Putnam county. John W. Ernst is a man of temper- ate habits, honest in his business dealings and cordial in his relations with his fellow men. WILLIAM H. LOWE. Among the representative farmers of Putnam county is the subject of this sketchrwho is the owner of many splendid acres of fine farming land !n Monroe township. William H. Lowe is carrying on the various depart- ments of his enterprise with that discretion and energy which are sure to Id their natural sequence m definite success. He has always been a hard worker, a good manager and a man of economical habits. He is also foi- tunately situated in -a thriving farming community, and it is no wonder that he stands today in the front ranks of the farmers o that favored lo- ■cality. Mr. Lowe has also been a successful carpenter and has several hun- dred buildings to his credit in Putnam county. ^ . ^ ,^ William H. Lowe was born on October 23, 1873, m Fairfield county, Ohio He is the son of Stephen S. and Laura E. (Willison) Lowe. Stephen S. Lowe was born in July, 1853, in Muskingum county, Ohio, and is the son of Benedict and Lucinda Lowe, who were natives of Ireland. Stephen S Lowe came to this county, where he remained for one year and then removed to Allen county, Ohio, near Delphos. Here he remained for three years, or until 1881. He removed to Putnam county, Ohio, m 1882, near Cloverdale, when the country was«mostly in a wild state. He was a shoemaker by trade and lost his sight and has been blind for the past six- teen years. He now lives with his daughter at Cloverdale, Ohio. He is a Ml;. AXU MUS. WILLIAM TI. LOWK. IU:SI1.>KX("E OF WILIJAM H. I.dWE. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Q2C. member of the Catholic church, and in poHtics is a Democrat. Mrs. Laura E. Lowe was born in 1844 in Illinois and came to Fairfield county, Ohio, when a small child. Her parents settled near Lancaster. She died in March! 1898, at the age of fifty-four years. She and her husband had six children: William H.; Mrs. Lula Spitnale, who lives in Perry township; Stephen, who Hves at Charlevoix, Michigan; Mrs. Elizabeth Andrews, of Lima, Ohio; Mrs. Ida Oakes, of St. Joseph, Missouri, and Mrs. Zoe Kippler, of Lima' Ohio. William H. Lowe came with his parents to Vinton county, Ohio, when about three years old. Subsequently he removed with them to Allen county and finally to Putnam county, near Cloverdale. Here he grew up and at- tended the township schools. He learned the carpenter's trade early in hfe and did much work in Putnam county. He was a foreman at Toledo, Ohio, for three years, and has two hundred and fifty-seven buildings to his credit. Mr. Lowe came from Continental, Ohio, to Toledo, and settled on his present farm. He has a farm of eighty acres, south of the place where he lives, m Monroe township. He is interested in a partnership arrange- ment, embracing some six hundred acres of land. He removed to the farm where he now lives one year after his marriage and has erected all of the buildings himself. He has a splendid farm and excellent buildings. He is a progressive farmer and believes thoroughly in advanced methods. Mr. Lowe is a student of farming and has watched with pride the possibilities afforded by the use of modern appliances in the saving of labor with the greatest amount of efficiency. As he has studied he has planned and today has erected upon his beautiful farm a barn one hundred by forty feet, that not only stores one hundred and sixty tons of hay, but also affords shelter for a sixty horsepower gas tractor, with a gang of eight fourteen- inch plows. William H. Lowe was married on February 15, 1902, to Iva A Bib- ler, who was bom on November 20, 1876, close to Dupont, in Perry town- ship. She IS the daughter of Samuel and Mary (Ridenour) Bibler To this union four children have been born, all of whom are hving at home They are Ruhla L., Owen B., Margarite A. and Richard William. Mr. Lowe is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows the Free and Accepted Masons and the Modern Woodmen of America at Con- tinental. He is more or less identified with the Republican party but is mdependent in vote. He has never aspired to. ofifice. He is not identified With any church, but attends the United Brethren church at Continental of 40 626 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. which Mrs. Lowe is a member. William H. Lowe is a quiet man, wh» makes no pretensions and claims to superior virtue, yet he is. a man of in- telligent and sterling qualities and bears a high reputation in Monroe town- ship, where he has lived for many years. DAVID WISTERMAN. To attain a worthy citizenship by a life that is always honored and re- spected even from childhood deserves more than mere mention. It is no easy task to resist the many temptations of youth and early manhood, and to estab- lish a character in the minds and hearts of associates that will remain an un- stained tribute for aU times. One may take his place in public life through some vigorous stroke of public policy, and even abide in the hearts of his. friends and neighbors, but to reach the same position by leading a consistent upright life, without craving for exaltation merely for selfish ends, is worthy of the highest praise and commendation. A man who has lived after this- fashion is David Wisterman, a well-known farmer of Monroe township, a. veteran of the Civil War, and a valiant, courageous and valuable citizen in times of peace. Mr. Wisterman has always been ready to assist in public movements with laudable preferment, and from many standpoints deserves, the high esteem with which he is held by the people of Putnam county, where he is so well known. David Wisterman was born on March 6, 1838, at Kalida, Ohio. He is- the son of George Joseph and Elizabeth (Cigler) Wisterman. George Joseph Wisterman was born in 1797, at the head of Lake Geneva,, near Seneca, New York, and here grew to manhood. In his youth he received a liberal education, having been prepared for a minister in the Lutheran church. He was well known as a German and Latin scholar, and taught school for a time during his younger days. He studied medicine under the direction of Doctor Shingler, and practiced this profession for many years. He also learned the trade of the journeyman tanner, and upon coming to- Putnam county, in 1836, he followed this occupation. In the meantime, how- ever, he had lived in Wayne county for a time. He built a tannery at Kalida,. the first one in this section of the state. In 1846, he sold the tannery, and settled on a farm in Greensburg township, near the Blanchard river. Sub- sequently, he operated a saw and grist-mill on the river, some five miles from the farm. In 1849, he went to California, returning three years later, and PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ' 527 settling on the old farm in Greensburg township, where he died in January, 1853. He was an old-line Whig in politics, and for a number of years filled the office of justice of the peace. George Joseph Wisterman was twice mar- ried, the first time to a Miss Pontius, by whom he had three children, Henry, Joseph and Isabella, all of whom are now deceased. Joseph owned about a quarter section of land in Wayne county, where Massilon, Ohio, now stands. After the death of his first wife, George Joseph Wisterman married Elizabeth Cigler, who was born in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on September 30, 1817, and who migrated from Pennsylvania to Wayne county, Ohio, with her parents, Henry Cigler and wife, who were natives of Pennsylvania. From Wayne county, Ohio, they came to Putnam county, settling at Kalida, where Eliza- beth Cigler was married to George Joseph Wisterman. Eight children were born to this marriage: Sarah, who died on February 28, 1852; David, who is the subject of this sketch; Elizabeth is deceased; Isaac lives in Florida; Jonas and Mary live in Kansas; Mrs. Catherine Croft Moree lives in Bowling Greene, Ohio; Mrs. Susan Miller lives in Florida, with her brother, Isaac. George Joseph Wisterman died in January, 1852, at the age of fifty-six; his wife died at the age of seventy-five years. The paternal grandfather of David Wisterman was George Joseph Wis- terman, Sr., born in Wurtemburg, Germany, and who came to America in 1795, settling near Buffalo, New York, where he married a Miss Brosius., He was a fine German and English scholar and a profound student of Greek Hebrew and Latin. For many years he was a leading Lutheran preacher in New York state, and was known far and near for his scholarly attainments David Wisterman, the subject of this sketch, lived in Kalida, leaving there, however, at the age of eight years, and removing with his parents to Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio. He stayed in Greensburg township for one year, and then removed to Perry township. He attended school m Perry township, and after having finished his education, taught for thirty-eight terms, mostly in Putnam county, though some of his profes- sional work was done in Paulding county, in Bureau county, Illinois, and in Defiance county. Mr. Wisterman educated himself by home study prin- cipally. He attended Kenyon Normal School, however, at Gambier, Ohio an institution endowed by Lord Kenyon of England. It was one of the best schools m the country at that time and one of the first great colleges in the West^ Mr. Wisterman also attended McCoy's commercial school, at Colum- bus, Ohio, and was a student there in 1861, when the war broke out David Wisterman enlisted on August 14, 1862, for three years, and served until his discharge, on August 27, 1863. He was a member of Com- 628 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. pany E, One Hundred and Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, attached to the Army of the West, and he was discharged for disability at the end of thirteen months. During his service in the army, he contracted lung trouble in the wet marshes and, although he underwent an operation, he was finally dismissed. He was in part of the battle of Perryville, when Bragg was driven out of Kentucky, and served six months at Bowling Green. After the war he returned home. Subsequently, Mr. Wisterman left for Auburn, Indiana, for treatment of lung trouble contracted while serving in the army. Finally, he studied medicine, and practiced for many years, but quit the practice in 1904. During the time he was practicing medicine, he was also a farmer, and had a hundred and fifty-seven acres where the old Wisterman farm is now located. Here, Mr. Wisterman built an elevator, placing his son Harvey in charge of it for some time, when it was ^finally sold to Toledo people, who now operate it. In 1904, Mr. Wisterman sold his farm and removed to Continental, where he purchased property for his wife. He, however, went to the soldiers' home, and lived there for five years, returning occasionally on furloughs. Later, he purchased his present farm of thirty-seven acres, and lives now a quiet' re- tired life. He has been more or less an invalid since leaving the army. David Wisterman was married on March 17, 1864, to Leandra Brower, a native of Putnam county, Ohio, born about four miles north of Kalida! along the Blanchard river, and the daughter of Brockman and Angeline (Stalnacher) Brower. To this happy union nine children have been born. Chauncey Burton and Elizabeth, the two eldest children, are deceased; Viola M., the seventh child, is also deceased; William H. married Florence Mullett, and lives in Toledo, Ohio, where he is a machinist; they have one child, Howard; Thomas C. married Anna Skelley, who is now deceased; he is a farmer living about one mile from Rawson, Ohio; there are three children, Elizabeth, Blanche and George D. ; Harvey M. married Ardella Miller, who is now deceased; they had four children, Robert M., Helen prances, Edna and Paul; two of these children, Robert M. and Paul, are deceased; Harvey M. lives at home, and is at present Putnam county representative of the State Life Insurance Company of Indianapolis, Indiana; he also deals in real estate. Harvey M. Wisterman is a splendid type of man, well known and popular throughout Putnam county. Alexis E. married Flossie Snyder, and they live at Union City, Tennessee. He is a contractor and builder, and has a plant where cement and brick blocks are manufactured. They have five children Catherine, Violet, Jessie H., William H. and Dorothy. George J married PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 629 Alta Simmons, and they live at Rudolph, Wood county, Ohio; they have three children, Harry C, Harvey Edward and Georgia Elizabeth. He is a farmer and also is engaged in the oil business. Myrtle M. married H. C. Parrett. Mrs. David Wisterman's father, Brockman Brower, vs^as a native of North Carolina, and his wife, Angeline (Stalnacher) Brower, was a native of Virginia. They were pioneer settlers in Putnam county, Ohio. Brockman Brower was an influential man in the Methodist church, and a strong Repub- lican. His father, Frederick Brower, was a native and resident of Randolph county. North Carolina, where he married Nellie Staley. He served in the War of 1812, and was a prominent man in the South. David Wisterman is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic Post at Kalida, Ohio. With the exception of township clerk, which he held for one term, Mr. Wisterman has not been active in politics. He is naturally conservative in pohtics, and although he votes somewhat independently, he is identified with the Republican party. He has been a great reader and a stu- dent of natural history. He is well informed upon all subjects, a free thinker, and a man who believes in the greatest freedom of thought and conscience. His advice is much sought in this section of Putnam county, where he has lived so long and so usefully. CHARLES VARNER. In every community are to be found individuals who, by reason of pro- nounced ability and forceful personality, rise superior to the majority and command the homage of their fellows ; who, by revealing to the world true, resplendent virtues, perseverance in effort and directing purpose, never fail to attain positions of honor and trust and become, in the full sense of the term, leaders of men. In this class is that well-known gentleman, success- ful lawyer and real estate dealer, Charles Varner, of Continental, Putnam county, Ohio. He is a man who ranks among the leading citizens of Put- nam county, and who, for a number of years, has borne an influential part in the affairs of Putnam county, where he resides. Charles Varner was, born on January 27, 1872, in Greensburg town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Isaiah and Fanny (Landis) Varner, the former of whom was the son of Jacob and Eliza (Guyton) Varner. Jacob Varner was a native of Virginia, as was also his wife. 630 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIQ-. He left Virginia to come to Ohio in pioneer days and was among the early settlers in this county. Isaiah Varner was born in Greensburg town- ship in 1842. Fanny Landis was born in the same township in 1843 Isaiah Varner grew to manhood on the home place, known as the old Jacob Varner homestead, and was reared as a farmer. With the exception of a short time spent outside of the county, Isaiah Varner has remained on the original one hundred and sixty acres, where he still lives, although he is retired at the age of seventy-two. His wife is also living. To Mr. and Mrs. Isaiah Varner ten children were born: Emma deceased; Maggie, who is at home; Mrs. John Ernst, who died in 1911' Charles, the subject of this sketch; Jacob, of DeKalb county, Indiana- Jerry, who also lives in DeKalb county; Martin, who lives in Wilhams coiinty, Ohio; Curtis, who is at home; Mrs. George Stauffer, who lives' in Ottawa; and Chester, who lives in Hammond, Indiana. Charles Varner grew up on his father's farm and was educated in the common schools. He attended the normal school at Angola, Indiana for three or four terms, after which he returned to Putnam county and taught school for about eight years. Subsequently, he attended Ada Col- lege and was graduated in 1894 from the pharmaceutical course He then worked m a drug store at Continental, Ohio, and while here, he read law and was admitted to the bar in 1902, He began to practice in that year m Continental and during his practice, has also handled real estate loans and insurance. Mr. Varner is still active in this business. Charles Varner was married on September 18, 1901, to Mae E Eberly who was born on January 26, 1879, in Lucas county, Ohio, -and who is the daughter of Benjamin and Jennie (Gorill) Everly. To this happv union five children have been born: Harriett, Charles Gorill, Hope, Theodora and one who died in infancy. Charles Varner was at one time an- active member of the Knights of Pythias, but is no longer a member. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons No. 570, the chapter and council at Ottawa, and the com- mandery at Defiance, Ohio. He is a member of Lodge No. 869, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, at Continental, Ohio. Mr. Varner is a stanch Re- publican. He was an alternate delegate to the Republican national conven- tion at Chicago, m 19 12. He served as mayor of Continental for one term following 1901, and was city solicitor for four terms. He has been an active member of the school board. Religiously, Mr. Varner and his family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In a personal way Charies PUTNAM COUNTY, OITIO. 63 1 Varner is a congenial young man and well liked in his town and township. He is a good business man and bears a high reputation for honesty and in- tegrity in the community where his professional labors have been performed. VICTOR NOIROT. Putnam county is fortunate in the number and character of its farmers, and much of the material prosperity of the county can be attributed to the fact that its farmers have kept abreast of the times. It can hardly be ques- tioned that the farmer is an index to the civilization of a community. If the farmers are progressive and up-to-date, it follows that the standard of living in that community will be higher. Thousands of banks have been organized within the last few years in order to supply the needs of the farmers, and ac- cording to one authority, the farmer and his crop furnish the bulk of the money for most of the smaller banks throughout the United States. The wholesome living, which is the good fortune of the farmer, is a big factor in keeping up the general tone of a county. The business men of the towns are drawing the men for their employees from the country, and everywhere it is noted that the men who are rising to prominence in the various activities of life were born and reared on the farm. Putnam has long been known as one of the very best farming counties of the state, and its excellent farmers have been one of the greatest factors in the material advancement of the county. Among the many excellent farmers of Putnam county there is no one who stands higher in the estimation of his neighbors than Victor Noirot, of Monroe township. Victor Noirot was born on September 7, 1857, in Hancock county, Ohio, and is the son of Lawrence and Mary (Bouvier) Noirot. Lawrence Noirot was the son of Francis C. and Frances (Raclor) Noirot, the former of whom was born in 1798, in the village of Boncourt, County Manly, department of Hontmarn, France, and united in marriage to Frances Raclor in 1823, at the same village. Frances Raclor was bom in the village where she was married, in December, 1800, and died on February 28, 1898. He died September 26, 1866, in Henry county, Ohio. Before leaving France, Francis Noirot was mayor of Boncourt, France. They came to America with their family on October 27, 1853, and finally settled at Findley, Hancock. county, Ohio, with their children, Frances, Nicholas, Claude, Anna, Mary, Celestian, John and Velaria. One child, Magdelena, had died in 632 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. France, and one son, Lawrence, came afterward. He was the father of the subject of this sketch. They came by way of New York City to Hancock county, and were farmers there for a time. Later, they removed to Putnam county, and here were among the early settlers, experiencing all the privations- of pioneer life. Subsequently, they removed to Henry county, Ohio. Lawrence Noirot, the father of Victor, was born on August 9, 1830, in France, and grew up there, coming to America at the age of twenty-six, in 1856. His father, mother and family, had come three years previously, in 1853. Lawrence Noirot came immediately to Hancock county by way of New Orleans. While in the South he contracted the yellow fever, and was laid up for three years in Hancock county, Ohio. Lawrence Noirot was mar- ried in 1856, to Mary Bouvier (a daughter of Claude Bouvier), a native of France, born on January 6, 1840. He was a farmer in Hancock county for a time, but later, in 1861, removed to Putnam county, and settled in Palmer township, where he farmed until March, 1887, when he moved to Defiance county, Ohio, where he farmed till his death, in August, 1867, at the age of sixty-seven years. He owned one hundred and sixty acres of land in Defiance county. Mrs. Mary Noirot, who was Mary Bourvier before her marriage, died on December 24, 191 1, at the age of seventy-one years. Her parents were farmers and early settlers of Hancock county, Ohio, where they lived until their death. Lawrence and Mary (Bouvier) Noirot had seven children. Victoria married John C. Oakley, of Palmer township. Lawrence was the second child. Josephine married Edward Lafontaine, of Palmer township. Louis lives in Michigan, William A. lives at Galyard, Michigan, and Sophia, the only child who died. Victor Noirot lived in Hancock county, and was four years of age when he was brought to Putnam county, Ohio, by his parents, in 1861. With the exception of about seven years spent in Henry county, Ohio, he has lived in Putnam county all his life. He left home at the age of twenty-nine years. Mr. Noirot owned forty acres in Henry county, and sold out and came to Putnam county, where he purchased sixty acres in Monroe township, where he now resides and carries on general farming. He removed to his present farm in 1895. Mr. Noirot was married on November 23, 1886, to Catherine Williams, a native of Palmer township, born on February 16, 1868, and the daughter of Michael and Mary Ann (Frankhart) Williams, the former of .whom was a native of Germany and the latter of whom, also, was born in Germany, in Luxemburg. Mary Ann Frankhart came to America with her parents at the age of seven years. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 633. To Mr. and Mrs. Victor Noirot three children have been born. OHver married Flossie Beemer, and lives in Galyard, Michigan. He is a farmer there. They have no children. Viola married Grover Beemer, and lives at Old Fort, Ohio. They had one child, Victor Emanuel, who is deceased, Blanche, the third child, lives at home. Mr. Noirot is not a member of any lodge. He has been a member of the school board, and justice of the peace in Palmer township for one term. He- served two terms as township clerk in Palmer township, being elected at the- age of twenty-one years. He served as township trustee of Monroe township, for two terms, and was on the school board for about twelve years. He was- also township ditch supervisor for three terms, and is still active. Likewise,, he has served as justice of the peace in Monroe township, and served several, times upon the election board, and on numerous occasions as presiding judge of this board. Politically, Mr. Noirot is a stanch Democrat. Religiously, he and his wife and family are members of the Catholic church at. North Creek,, in Palmer township. They are highly respected residents of Putnam county' and entitled to the free and generous esteem accorded them by their neighbors- and friends. SAMUEL M. DICKEY. One of Monroe township's well-known farmers and stock raisers who^ is deserving of a place in this volume, is Samuel M. Dickey, a man of courage, self-reliance and integrity of purpose. As a consequence of these qualities, during his entire life, he has stood high in the estimation of his- neighbors and friends, whose interests he has always sought to promote. Mr. Dickey has been honored by the people of Perry township, where he formerly lived, and, in 1905, came very near being elected as sheriff of Putnam county, having lost out by a narrow margin. He has been a successful contractor, but now confines his attention wholly to farming. Samuel M. Dickey was born on September 25, 1856, in Perry town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Jacob and Nancy E. (Hutchinson) Dickey. Jacob Dickey was born on March 16, 1829, in Holmes countv, Ohio, and died at his home near Continental, Ohio, on April 10, 191 1' at the age of eighty-two years and twenty-five days. He came with his parents to Putnam county in 1842, when that country was a vast wilderness. He was married to Nancy E. Hutchinson on August 25, 1852, and in the fall ^34 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of that year they came to their present farm in Perry township, wliere they -both continued to hve until death. Together they suffered the hardships of pioneer hfe and experienced many joys and sorrows. They built a log cabin in the woods and after their marriage lived in it for three years. Jacob Dickey then rented a farm of one hundred and seven acres and farmed it for two years, when he came to his farm in Perry township. With the exception of Samuel M., the subject of this sketch, ta.\\ the children were born on the homestead farm. Jacob Dickey was the son of John and Mary (Deeds) Dickey, who came from Holmes county to Putnam county in 1842, and settled on a farm in Perry township close to the river, where they both died. Jacob Dickey was at oen time an active member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, but was not ■active at the time of his death. He was township trustee,, justice of the peace for many years, and a man of wide influence in the local councils of the Democratic party. He was not a member of any church. To Jacob and Nancy Dickey, nine children were born: G. W., of Cannelsburg, In- diana; Samuel M., whose history is here presented; Mrs. Lena Spitnale, of Perry township; Frank, who lives on the_old home farm; Mrs. San- ford Smith, of Continental; W. M., of Lima, Ohio; Mrs. W. H. Harmon, •of Morley, Missouri; H. K., who also lives at Morley, and Mrs. John Camburn, of Amber, Pennsylvania. The mother of these children died on January 17, 1898, at the age of sixty years, having been born on Tanuarv 19. 1838. ^ Samuel M. Dickey remained on the home farm until his marriage and then farmed for about sixteen years near Dupont, Ohio, where he built a home. Subsequently, he came to Monroe township to a farm of forty acres, where he now lives. When Mr.- Dickey moved to this farm, it was coA-ered with timber and was more or less in' a wild condition He has cleared and ditched the farm, and in 191 1 built a fine barn. He owns a fine residence and now has an ideal farm, and is known as one of the best farmers of Putnam county. He takes a great pride in this farm and is known as a good judge of stock. Mr. Dickey believes in progressive farming. He is a capable carpenter and learned this trade for his own benefit, building his own home. He followed contracting in Putnam county for about twelve years, but is no longer engaged in this work. Samuel M. Dickey w^as married on April 23, 1879, to Emma Lutz a native of Putnam county and the daughter of George and Justenia (Weaver) Lutz. To this union, one son, Joseph, has been born. Joseph PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. gic ■married Winifred Hikson and lives at Alexandria, Indiana, where he is a teacher in the high school, now teaching his second term there. He has taught school for several years, and was principal of the school at Conti- nental, Ohio, and also at Mt. Sterling, Ottawa and Wilmington. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in Indiana in 1912, but has never practiced, as he prefers to teach. At one time, Samuel M. Dickey was active in the Knights of Pythias, but is no longer so. He w'as a candidate for sheriff in 1905 on the Demo- cratic ticket, but was defeated by a narrow margin. He was, for a period^ assessor of Perry township. Although Mr. and Mrs. Dickey are not mem- bers of any church, they are moved by strong religious convictions and are Christians, nevertheless. Mr. Dickey is a man of excellent habits and sterling character; is quiet in his manner and conservative in his actions, and is known to be honest and upright in all of his dealings with his fellowmen. FREDERICK WILLIAM SCHROEDER. That nothing is impossible to the man of determination and pluck is proved every day, and an example of this is the story of Frederick W. Schroe- •der, who located on his present farm in 1887 when the land was uncleared and choked with swamps. By hard, persistent effort the land was cleared, drained, fenced and improved until, today, it is one of the model places of the county. The house is modern, being equipped with furnace, electric lights and other conveniences. The barn and other outbuildings testify to the industry of the owner and are a credit to the county. Mr. Schroeder was born on April 14, 1861, in Greensburg township, Putnam county, the son of Carl and Agnes (Hoenbrink) Schroeder, who were the parents of ten children as follows : Mrs. Anna Siebeneck, Mrs. Mary Meyer, Frank, William, who died in 1900; John, of Liberty township, Put- nam county; Frederick W. ; Andrew, who died on November 26, 1914; Henry, of Greensburg township; Ignatius, also of Greensburg township, on the old home place, which has been in the family for over eighty years, and Mrs. Theresa Toby, also of Greensburg township. In 1834 Nicholas Schroeder came to America from Ostercappeln, Ger- many, bringing with him his son, Carl, who was born on December 22, 1827 and who became the father of Frederick William. Nicholas entered one hundred and sixty acres of government land in Greensburg township, Put- 636 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHI.O. nam county. The land was wooded and swampy, but by hard work was. made into an excellent farm. The land, which was close to the Blanchard river, was drained by Carl, who farmed the place all his life and achieved prominence in the community. He died on September 21, 1908, aged eighty years and eight months. Agnes Schroeder was a native of Glandorf, Germany, who came to the United States some years later than did her future husband. She was born on February 13, 1826, and died on April 19, 191 1, aged eighty-five years, two months and six days. She was a loving mother, who endeared herself ta her family and to her neighbors, and her death was regretted by a great num- ber of friends. She and her husband were the parents of the family of chil- dren who subsequently proved that the parents reared their children wisely and well. The youth of Frederick Schroeder was spent on the home farm, and he received a common-school education, supplemented by the experience of hard work. He located on his present farm in 1887 which he immensely improved, and is now devoted to general farming, the raising of grain and the feeding of live stock. The farm on which he lives contains eighty acres while he owns a place of seventy-four acres in Ottawa township, which he also cultivates. The marriage of Mr. Schroeder and Regina Moenter occurred on Octo- ber 26, 1887, his wife being the daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Wolf- horst) Moenter, who were the parents of nine children: Anna, who died in infancy; Anna Mary, deceased; Regina; Henry B., deceased; Henry, now living on the homestead in Marion township, Allen county, Ohio; Frank, also of Allen county; Mrs. Mary Pohlman, of Allen county; Clara and Rosa, both deceased. To Frederick Schroeder and his wife were born eight children, namely : Agnes, born on February 14, 1889, married Bernard Eller- brock, and they farm the Ellerbrock homestead, south of Glandorf, in Ottawa township; they have two children, Norbert and Sylvester. The remainder of the children, who live at home are : Cecilia E., born on April 18, 1891 ; Leo C, born on March 24, 1893; Felix, born on January 5, 1895; Lucy M 'bora on January 5, 1897; Elenora, born on March 4, 1899; Edward John, born on July 25, 1901 ; and Clara T., born on September 26, 1904. Frank Moenter, who also was a native of Germany, was born in 1840- and died in April, 1896. His wife was a native of Fort Jennings, Putnam county, and was born on January 17, 1843, and died on October 5 1913 at the age of seventy. Frank Moenter came to America when he was about PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 637 ■six years of age, his parents locating on a farm in Marion township, AUen county, Ohio, near Delphos. The original place contained eighty acres, but ■one hundred and twenty acres were accumulated eventually. He was a popu- lar man, by reason of his fine, unassuming nature. Mr. Schroeder is a stanch member of the Democratic party, and is .affiliated to the congregation of St. Mary's Catholic church. He is a director ■of the German Mutual Farmers' Fire Insurance Company, of Glandorf, Ohio, which position he has held the last three years. Mr. Schroeder is a quiet- mannered gentleman, with a whole-hearted, unassuming personality, which has gained him many friends. FRANK J. VERHOFF. Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, never fails of success. It carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individuality and acts as a powerful stimulus to others. The greatest results in life are often at- tained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunities for acquiring experience of the best kind, and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for sel f-improvement. Frank J. Verhofif, who is numbered among the sterling citizens and progressive farmers of Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, was born on June 22, 1864, on the parental farm in the same township and county. He is the son of Theodore and Elizabeth (Egbers) Verhoff, pioneer resi- dents of Greensburg township. A full account of the paternal ancestry will be found elsewhere in this history of Putnam county, Ohio. The subject of this review received his education in the schools of Glan- dorf, Ohio, and in his youth worked on his father's farm, and early learned the secrets of successful agriculture, a vocation to which he has devoted his entire life. He is now the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of choice farming land, the original tract of eighty acres in section 29 was deeded to him by his father, to which was added, by purchase,, forty acres in section 30, and, later, he purchased eighty acres just across in section 29, besides another tract of one hundred and twenty acres, which lies just north of the ongmal farm, forty acres of which is in section 19 and eighty in section 29. 638 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. The father had erected the original farm buildings, to which the subject added a number of new buildings, making a total of eight fine farm and residence buildmgs. Mr. Verhoff does not specialize in the raising of any particular kmd of crop, but gives careful attention to the rotation of such crops as interest him, keeping his land in the very best of condition and realizing a harvest that proves his farming profitable. Frank J. Verhoff was married on November 6, 1889, to Elizabeth Ham- berg, who was born in Osnabrock, Province of Hanover, Germany and is a daughter of Henry and Mary (Mudler) Hamberg, natives of c'ermany. Mrs. Verhoff came to this country when she was but a child of fourteen, ac- companied by a brother, Henry, who settled on a farm near Glandorf Put- nam county, Ohio. Besides the subject's wife, the maternal parents had four children who remained in the old country, Herman, George, Mary and Ber- nardina. Soon after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Verhoff they took up then residence on the portion of the farm located in section 29, in Greensburg- township, Putnam county, and to them were born nine children, named as follow: Magdelena, August 17, 1890; Emma Mary, September 18, 189-^- Alphonse T., October 12, 1895; Francis K., July 3, 1898; Loretta Mary' January 17, 1901 ; Edward W., June 30, 1903; Amos ]., October 6, 1906; Urban C., February i, 1909; and Otham A., June 3, 1912. Of these chil- dren, Magdelena became the wife of Charles Recker,Vnd they live on a farm near Glandorf, Ohio. To this union one child was born, Albert U., July 2, 1912. Emma Mary became the wife of Benjamin Recker, and are now liv- ing on his farm near Glandorf, Ohio. To this union no children have been born. Frank J. Verhoff's well-directed ^efforts in the practical affairs of life, his capable management of all his own interests, and his sound judgment have brought him well-earned prosperity, his life demonstrating what may be accomplished by the man of energy and ambition who is not afraid to work, and who has the perseverance to continue his labors. He raises thor- oughbred and Shorthorn Durham cattle and Poland China hogs. Good natured, straightforward, unassuming, he commands the respect of all with whom he comes in contact and his friends are in number as his acquaintances Politically, Mr. Verhoff is a firm believer in the old-time principles of Democ- racy; religiously, he is an active member of St. Michael's Catholic church, of Kalida, Ohio, and among the congregation is known to be a liberal donor to all meritorious movements toward the advancement of charity and religion. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 630, HENRY PHILIP SCHAFER. Henry Philip Schafer, one of the members of the well-known Schafer family, of Putnam county, Ohio, and a prosperous farmer in Monroe town- ship, is well known in this section of Ohio. In the veins of the Schafer family flows the blood of the German nobility, Henry Philip Schafer being a distant lineal descendant from Baron Hempleman, of Hesse Castle, Ger- many. Many years ago the Schafer family was founded in this country,, where no rank of nobility is recognized, and where the merit of the indi- vidual citizen is the measure of his worth. In public and private life, how- ever, the Schafer family in the country of their adoption has fulfilled the worthy traditions of their noble-born ancestors. Born on September ii, 1864, in Palmer township, Putnam county, Ohio,. Henry Philip Schafer is a son of William and Mary (Morris) Schafer, who,, at the time of his birth, were residents of North Creek. Mr. Schafer's pa- ternal grandparents, Philip Jacob and Elizabeth Schafer, came to this coun- try from Germany, and here established the family. Philip Jacob Schafer died, about the year 1840, in Koenig Hessen, Darmstadt, Germany. The maternal grandfather, Henry Morris, whose wife was Margaret Morris, was the first judge in Putnam county, Ohio. Henry Philip Schafer's father, William Schafer, was born at Koenig Hessen, Darmstadt, Germany, on February 4, 1839, and passed away at North Creek, Putnam county, Ohio, January i, 1903. His devoted wife,. Mrs. Mary (Morris) Schafer, the daughter of Judge Morris, and a faithful and loving helpmate throughout his life, was born on August 5, 1845, in Monroe county, Ohio, on October 10, 1902. Of their family of twelve chil- dren, seven were sons and five were daughters. All are now living, except Laura May, the next to the youngest, who died on September i, 1903. The names of these children in the order of their birth are as follow : Henry Phihp and John S., of North Creek, Ohio; Mrs. Margaret Jackson, of Gladstone, Michigan; William W., of Greensburg township, Putnam county; George L., of Defiance county, Ohio; Charles C, of North Creek ;- Mrs. Sarah E. Weller, of Silver Lake, Indiana; Mrs. Mary E. Fenstermaker, of Hillsdale, Michigan; Mrs. Ida L. Hilther, of Palmer tpwnship, Putnam county; Benjamin F., of North Creek, Ohio; Laura May, deceased; and Joseph J., of Adrian, Michigan. After being educated in the common schools of Palmer township, Put- nam county, Ohio, and especially in District No. 3, of this township, Henry Philip Schafer served as deputy postmaster and railroad express agent at ■640 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. North Creek, Ohio, from 1881, at the time he was seventeen years old, until 1884, when he was twenty. On October 6, 1888, he moved to his present farm of fifty-three acres in Monroe township, which is located one-half mile west of the original homestead farm. Here Mr. Schafer has farmed ever since. His land is well improved and shows evidence of the careful -cultivation which it has received from its owner. For over twelve years Mr. Schafer has served as secretary of the Palmer Mutual Fire Insurance Asso- ciation, with headquarters at North Creek, Ohio. One month before he removed to his present farm, on September 6, 1888, Mr. Schafer was married to Martha Weller, a native of Van Buren, •Ohio, born on April 7, 1864, the daughter of Dr. Jonathan and Rebecca Weller, the former of whom was born on June 10, 1830, and who died on June 16, 1898, and the latter of whom was born on August 6, 1830, and who died on January 8, 1902. Mr. and Mrs. Schafer are the parents of five children: Louis, born in 1891, was married on August 26, 1913; Mrs. Eva Fenstemaker, born on September 23, 1895, was married on January 20, 1915; Mattie, born on June 11, 1897; Viola, born on July i, 1901, and Ralph, born on December 10, 1903. Mr. Schafer is a man of fine and friendly impulses, popular in the neigh- borhood where he lives, honorable in his dealings with his neighbors, and highly respected by the community at large. He is a worthy descendant of the great family of Baron Hempleman and a patrician at heart, even though the Schafer family no longer bears this name in our American democracy. JULIUS C. RISSER. Among those persons who have, by virtue of their strong individual personality, earned their way to a position of high standing in the estima- tion of their fellow citizens, and who have, by sheer force of character and persistency, acquired a substantial competence in life, is Julius C. Risser, of Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, Ohio. Mr. Risser has been active in the agricultural and stock raising affairs, of Putnam county, for many years, and has acquired a position of distinct prominence as a breeder of thoroughbred Belgian horses. Julius C. Risser was born on February 25, 1864, in Allen county, Ohio, near Rockport. He is the son of Daniel and Elizabeth M. (Smith) Risser, -whose family history is to be found elsewhere in this volume in sketches K m OLD AM) NEW IJKSIDIOXCES UF .iri>irs C UISSKU. I!Ai;.\ OF .TILirS C. lilSSKK PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 64I of D. R. Risser, a brother of Julius C, and David Risser, of Riley town- ship, an uncle. Daniel and Elizabeth M. Risser moved to Sugar Creek township, when Julius C. was only a few months old. Here Julius C. remained until he was twenty-seven years old. It was on the old homestead of his father that he spent his childhood and youth. Here he attended the old Michael district school. Shortly after finishing the common schools he went to the Ohio Northwestern University, at Ada, completing the commercial course. After this he returned to the home farm and assisted his father until his marriage, April I, 1891. Julius C. Risser was married to Mary E. Clevenger, who was born on the old Clevenger homestead, south of Vaughnsville, September 15, 1866. She is the daughter of James and Catherine (Vaughn) Clevenger. After his ma'rriage Julius C. Risser came to his wife's home, where they have resided ever since. Mr. Risser took charge of the Clevenger home place, consisting of one hundred acres, and after his father's death obtained possession of his father's home place of two hundred acres, by buying out the interest of tlie other heirs. Besides Mr. Risser's land holdings in Sugar Creek township, he also owns a section of six hundred and forty acres in Texas. Mr. Risser is a stockholder in the Peoples Banking Company, of Columbus Grove and Vaughnsville. Julius C. Risser and wife have had eight children: James Daniel, born on January 26, 1892; Catherine Elizabeth, born on July 2, 1893; Ada May, born on September 29, 1895; Sarah Emma, born on September 17, 1898; Nellie Ruth, born on November 14, 1901 ; Mary Ellen, born on October 11' 1904; Harry Edwin, born on July 11, 1907, and Grace Pauline, born on April 8, 191 1. Julius C. Risser is the owner of two fine farms, both.of which are very highly improved. The old homestead has a very large and commodious barn, forty-two by one hundred feet, and an addition of a substantial cattle barn, thirty by fifty feet. In addition to this, there are other buildings in keeping with the surroundings, including a brick residence of ten rooms On his present home farm Mr. Risser has good barns and other splendid improvements, including a handsome brick residence of twelve rooms, with all modern conveniences, and equipped with private electric light plant and a water system. It is conceded to be one of the finest country homes in the county. This residence is beautifully situated on the south bank of Sugar oreek, one-eighth of a mile south of Vaughnsville. It is a noteworthy fact 41 642 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. that Mr. Risser owes his prominence in the community largely to his own efforts, untiring energy and good business judgment. He has been branch- mg put lately to the breeding of thoroughbred Belgian horses, having re- cently purchased a magnificent stallion, "Dernier," No. 8673, which won the gold medal at the big horse show of Spa, Belgium, in 1914. He also raises- bees and has about one hundred hives, from which he realizes a source of revenue in the sale of honey. Mr. and Mrs. Risser and family attend the Christian church, of which Mrs. Risser is a member. Mr. Risser is a member of Maccabees Lodge No. 312, at Vaughnsville. Mr. Risser is a Democrat, but has never aspired to office. JOHN T. VERHOFF. The names Verhoff and Brinkman for several generations have been familiar and respected among the people of Putnam county, the progenitors of these two families having been among the earlier settlers of the county- pioneers who left their impress upon the community in which they lived and labored, in which they wrested from the wilderness, homes for them- selves, which have come down to their descendants to the fourth and fifth generations, in all of which time the two names above noted have stood for thrift, energy and directness of purpose. When, in 1899, these two names were linked and united by the marriage of John T. Verhoff and Catherine Brinkman there was much rejoicing among the friends of this worthy couple, for this insured the establishment of another family which should be marked by the same sterling traits as ever had characterized the families of the two thus united. It is eminently fitting, therefore, that in a work of this kind, containing the histories of the leading families of Putnam county, some reference should be made to the life of the gentleman whose name appears above. John T. Verhoff was born on his father's farm near Glandorf, Greens- burg township, Putnam county, Ohio, on April 6, 1871, the son of Theodore and Elizabeth (Egbers) Verhoff, prominent in the life of that part of the county. For further details of the genealogy of the Verhoff family, the reader is referred to the sketch of Theodore Verhoff, father of the subject of this sketch, presented elsewhere in this volume. John T. Verhoff was reared on the paternal farm and received his edu- PUTNAM COUNXY, OHIO. g^^ cation in the common schools of Greensburg township and attended for three years the graded school at Glandorf. Until he was twenty-four years of age he lived on his father's farm, after which he moved to a farm owned by his father in section 29, Greensburg township, where he lived with his brothers, Joseph and August, and his sister, Mary, the latter of whom kept house for them. Here he remained, assisting in the work of the farm, for three years, or until his marriage in 1899, after which he moved to the farm in Union township on which he still resides and which he now owns, but which at that time belonged to his father. Though there were comfortable buildings on this farm at the time he took possession, Mr. Verhoff has greatly improved the place, by reconstructing the house and barn better to conform to the modern standard and has put up a number of substantial outbuildings necessary to the proper operation of the farm. On this farm of one hundred and twenty acres, eighty acres of which he bought from his father, the addi- tional forty having been bought later, Mr. Verhoff engages quite success- fully m general fanning and pays some attention to the raising of full- blooded Jersey cattle. He is industrious and energetic and, with the char- acteristic Verhoff thrift, has accumulated a fine property. On August 23, 1899, John T. Verhoff was united in marriage with Catherine Bnnkman, the daughter of Henry and Sophia (Ricker) Brink- man, both of whom were born near Glandorf, in this county, the parents of both having come from Germany in the eariy days of this county's settle- ment and located in the Glandorf neighborhood, where they joined the other German pioneers in clearing the land for the future generations. Henry and Sophia (Ricker) Brinkman were the parents of nine children the others, besides Mrs.. Verhoff, being: Joseph, Mary, Frank, Barney Theresa Bernardma, Anna and Josephine, of whom the first four named are now deceased. The mother of the above children died in 1882 and Mr Brinkman miarned, secondly, Caroline Foppe, to which union there were bom five children: Henry, Veronica, Helen, Amos (deceased) and Caroline . u ^^ ^°^^, 7' """^ Catherine (Brinkman) Verhoff have been born the following children: Verona, born on December 30, 1900, died a few days later; Leona, born on May 30, 1902; Mary, born on March 25, 190c- Ber- nardma, born on October 18, 1906, and Raymond, born on June 10 1908 he first three named of whom are in school and making diligent use of thei; excellent scholastic opportunities. . TT-^it" ^' 7"'^°^ ^""^ ^'^^ ^'^ "''"'^''■' °^ St. Michael's Catholic church at Kahda, and are active in the affairs of that parish, being well known for 644 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. their kindliness and benevolence. Mr. Verhoff is connected with the Catho- lic Knights of Ohio and takes an active part in the affairs of that organiza- tion. He is one of the substantial men of his section of the county and v^fields a good influence therein. WILLIAM A. EDELBROCK. One of the oldest and best known families in Putnam county is the Edelbrock family, one of the members of which the biographer takes pleasure in calling the attention of the reader to at this point in this interesting and valuable biographical volume. William A. Edelbrock was born March 20, 1863, the son of Henry and Theresa Edelbrock, for the genealogy of whom the reader is referred to the sketch of John Edelbrock, brother of William A., presented elsewhere in this volume. William A. Edelbrock was reared on his father's farm and received his early education in the neighborhood schools, remaining on the paternal farm until his marriage in 1895, with the exception of two years, during which time he was engaged in the saw-mill business in Greensburg township, this county, and was one of the most popular younk men in the neighborhood. On November 8, 1895, William Edelbrock was united in marriage with Theresa Huster, the daughter of William and Dora Huster, well-known residents of Greensburg township, where Mr. Huster still lives on his farm, his wife having died some years ago, and who were the parents of seven children, Frank, Charles, William, Philomena, Theresa, Elizabeth and Kath- arine. Mrs. Edelbrock's father, William Huster, was born in the Province of Hanover, Germany, son of Henry and Elizabeth (Gertker) Huster, who had eight children. Henry and Elizabeth came to this country and settled where their son William now lives. She died here and he moved to Shelby county, Ohio, where he lived until his death. William Huster was married in Glan- dorf, Putnam county, to Dora Schroeder. She was born in Putnam county, a daughter of Nicholas and Mary Schroeder, who were born in Germany! After marriage, William and Dora (Schroeder) Huster moved to a farm in Greensburg township, and later, after his father had moved to Shelby county, Ohio, he bought the home place from his father in Greensburg township, of sixty acres, and he now owns eighty-seven acres. To William Huster and PUTNAM COUNTX, OHIO. g.n wife were born nine children, Frank, Charles, William, Philomena, Theresa (wife of subject of this sketch), Elizabeth, Katrina, all living, and Henry and Maryann, who are dead. Mr. Huster's wife died on January 4, 191 1. He still lives on his farm, which is just east of his son-in-law's, Mr! Edel- brock. Mr. Huster's sons manage and develop the farm. All belong to St John's Catholic church at Glandorf. Following his marriage, Mr. Edelbrock moved to a farm of forty-seven acres, which he bought in Jackson township, this county, which he improved and on which he remained for four years. He then moved to Greensbur- township, where for two years he operated the old Dangler saw-mill At the end of that time he sold this mill, but later took it over again and moved It to Avis, at which place he bought forty-three acres of land, on which he now operates the mill and engages in general farming. This saw-mill is of modest size and capacity, but turns out a good deal of custom work and has proved not only a great convenience in the neighborhood, but a source of con- siderable revenue to the owner. To William A. and Theresa (Huster) Edelbrock there have been bom three children . Hulda, born on July 11, 1897; Louis, bom on July .5 1890 and Leonore bom on December 6, 1908, who are the delight of the ives of' their devoted parents and the light of their happy home William Edelbrock and wife are members of the Catholic church at Glandorf and are rearing their children in that faith. They take an active part m the benevolent affairs of their home parish and are interest" al th^TerLTgL:' ''' ^'''''''''-' ''-^ -'' ''^' -' P^P"'- ^^-^^houl ASA VARNER. A great movement cannot be built on one little ship-the Mayflower It takes a lot of ships and a big lot of people to make a commonwealth A pyramid cannot be budt on its apex, nor a great nation on one ship PW mouth and Salem and Boston; Providence and Hartford and New Haven- Manhattan, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Jamestown, Raleigh, Charleston a!d S ' vannah are the bright and shining stars of the -Pilgrim immigration to Ame ica; and the Brotherhood of Separationists, of luritans, of Zch t^Z' masters, o Roman Catholic freemen, of Philadelphia Q akers, of VhX" planters, of Carolina disciples of Locke and Huguenots of Georgia ihust e the fact that one type of motive makes the world akin. In the've'ry natul 646 I-UTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of things, there are in this section of Ohio many descendants of the old Colonial families, the progeny after many generations of those who dared the perils of a new world to obtain the freedom of conscience which their souls panted for. Among these there is one, whose descent on both the maternal and maternal line, is from old Colonial stock, who merits mention in this bio- graphical work, not only on account of his long American lineage, but on ac- count of the character of his labors in this community, and it is a pleasure for the biographer here to engage the reader's attention to a brief and modest re- view of the life of the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch. Asa Varner, a well-known and progressive farmer of Greensburg town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio, was born on the farm on which he still makes his home and where his whole life has been spent, on September 15, 1853, the son of Jacob and Eliza (Guyton) Varner, the former of whom was born in Paige county, Virginia, of a family that for generations had been promi- nent in Virginian affairs, and the latter of whom was born in Maryland, a member of a family that had been established in that state in early Colonial days. Jacob Varner was reared in Paige county, Virginia, the place of his birth, and there grew up as a practical farmer. In the year 1833, when about thirty years of age, he migrated to Ohio, coming to Putnam county, where he entered from the government a tract of one hundred and fifty-five acres in Greensburg township, where he spent the rest of his life, this same farm now being in the possession of his son. Jacob Varner entered upon the task of clearing this farm, which was then covered with a virgin forest. He erected a log cabin, the floor of which was of split slabs, and in that humble dwelling-place he lived and labored alone for several years. Then, seeing his way clear to the establishuent of a definite and permanent home, he sought a helpmate and brought to his cabin-home his bride, Eliza Guyton, the daugh- ter of Vincent and Anna Guyton, who had settled on a farm in Ottawa town- ship, this county, having come to this county from the state of Maryland. With this additional incentive to labor, Jacob Vamer continued the task of bringing his farm to a proper state of cultivation and quickly had a profitable and productive place, soon becoming one of the best-circumstanced men in that pioneer neighborhood. As circumstances warranted he built new and better buildings on his place and later added to his original holdings an ad- joining tract of eighty acres, bringing it all to an excellent state of cultiva- tion, having at the time of his death one of the model farms of Greensburg township. Not only did he prosper on the material side, but he did well his PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 647 part in the moral, social and civic life of the community and was looked upon as one of the leaders in that section of the county, both he and his wife being regarded as among the leaders in the communal life. Jacob Varner died in 1895, his wife having predeceased him ten years, her death having occurred in 1885, and both were sincerely mourned in the community of which they so long had been such prominent and active factors. To Jacob and Eliza (Guyton) Varner were born nine children: Mary- ann, Ellen, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Barbara, Isaiah, William J., Asa and Ruth, all of whom are still living, save Maryann and Barbara. Maryann married Dr. Hiram Ayres, of Paulding Center, Ohio, where her death occurred; Elizabeth married David Cushman and lives in Michigan; Rebecca married Virgil Bibler and also lives in Michigan; Isaiah married Fannie Lantus and resides in Greensburg township, this county ; William J. married Anna Simon -and lives in Ottawa. Asa Varner was reared on the paternal farm and received his early edu- cation in the schools of Greensburg township. Upon attaining manhood's estate he continued to remain at home, assisting his father in .the manage- ment of the place, not marrying until he was thirty-five years of age. After Jiis marriage he continued to remain on the home place, which he inherited upon the death of his father in 1895. Since coming into possession, Mr. Varner has made many notable improvements on the place and now has one of the best equipped farms in Greensburg township, all the appointments of the same being up-to-date and complete. On October 2, 1887, Asa Varner was united in marriage with Arnolda "Greene, daughter of Henry and Maty (Hunter) Greene, the former of whom was born in Athens county, Ohio, and the latter of whom was born in Franklin county, Ohio. Bereft of his mother in his early childhood, Henry Greene was reared by his half-sister, Sarah, and received his education in the schools of Athens county. Upon reaching manhood, he went to Franklin county to work on a farm and there met and married Mary Hunter and three years later came to Putnam county, locating on a farm of forty acres near Fort Jennings. This he later sold and moved to the town of Kalida, where he bought property, at the same time buying forty acres of land in' Union township. His wife died during their residence in Kalida,' after which Mr. Greene made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Varner, his death occurring on May 12, 1901, two years after the death of his wife. The Greenes were most excellent people and were held in the highest regard by their wide circle ■.of acquaintances. They were the parents of nine children, three of whom ^died in infancy, the others being: Sarah, William, Silas, Weltha, Mary and 648 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Arnolda, the latter of whom married Mr. Varner. WiUiam Greene was a soldier of the Union army during the Civil War, having served for three years in Company G, One Hundred and Sixty-first Regiment, Ohio Volun- teer Infantry. He lived but three days after returning home from the serv- ice, his death being due to illness contracted in the army. To Asa and Arnolda (Greene) Varner have been born five children, as follows : Floyd Ellis, who was born on February 12, 1889, and died on Feb- ruary 16, 1889; Ina Victoria, born on September 16, 1894; Byron Eugene, born on June 9, 1897; Gladys Merle, born on December 3, 1899, and Alfred Clarke, born on July 3, 1902. Gladys and Ina attended the high school at Continental and the latter was graduated from that institution with the class of 191 5. Byron assists his father in the management of the farm. In addi- tion to rearing their own family, Mr. and Mrs. Varner have reared three orphans to manhood and womanhood, taking them into their home in their childhood, educating them and giving them happy homes until their marriage, rearing them even as their own children. The three persons thus happily provided for are Arthur Quick, Burt Butler and Gertrude Stevens, all well known in the neighborhood of the Varner home. The Varner home is noted for its generous hospitality and Mr. and Mrs. Varner are considered as among the leaders in the social life of their com- munity. Kindly and full of Christian charity, they have the regard of all who know them and are highly esteemed throughout that whole section of the country. FRANK RIEMAN, SR. There is no vocation in which man may engage which permits of so much independence as that of the agriculturist. Modern methods of farm- ing and a just return for his labors have brought this about. Time was when the farmer was almost looked down upon and when his true position in the economic scheme of the country was little appreciated, but that day is past, and the successful and up-to-date farmer may, if he so desires, have all the advantages worth while which his city brother possesses, and, in ad- dition, have the freedom, the independence and the joy of out-of-doors, which the average city man knows little of. One of the well-known farmers of Putnam county, Ohio, is Frank Rieman, Sr., the immediate subject of this sketch, who was born in Ottawa township on February 24, 1842, a son of John and Mary (Mehring) Rie- man, both natives of Oldenburg, Germany. V. -f. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 649 John Rieman, when a youth, emigrated from the Fatherland with his parents, the family locating in Cincinnati, Ohio, at which point he married his wife. After remaining there a short time, the family came to PutiTam county, settling near Glandorf, and later removing to a farm where the parents passed the remainder of their days. Of the family, Frank Rie- man is the only son living at this time, and surviving with him are his. three sisters, Bernadina, Anna and Mary. The brothers who have passed from life are John, Ignatius, Barney and Charles. When a boy, Frank Rieman attended the schools near his home and worked with his father on the home farm. Early in 1866 he was united in marriage to Mary Karhoff, a daughter of Henry and Adelaide (Grothe) Karhoff, both born in the province of Hanover, Germany. Immediately upon arriving in this country, they set out for Putnam county, where they passed the remainder of their days. At fu'st Mr. Karhoff secured employ- ment during the construction of the old canal and then he purchased a farm in Ottawa township, upon which they spent their remaining years. He was but fifty-one years of age at the time of his death, but his widow survived him until she had reached the ripe old age of eighty-six years. Their children were Theresa (deceased), Mary (wife of our immediate subject), Bernadina, Frank, Anna and Philomena. Shortly after marriage, on April 25, 1866, Frank Rieman and his bride came to the farm where he now lives. Through the passing years this- spot has become very dear to him, for her the children were all born and reared and the many happy associations have bound him closely to the spot. The farm home first contained but eighty acres, but Mr. Rieman has added to it until his possessions at the present time total one hundred and ninety acres. This homestead contains splendid buildings, most all of which have- been erected by Mr. Rieman, and in addition to his general farming, in which he is highly successful, he specializes to a limited extent in full-blooded: Short-horn cattle. The children of the family are: Philomena, born on March 14, 1867;- Ignatius, born on December 6, 1870; Frank, born on November 14,' 1872; Andrew, born on November 14, 1874; Charles, born on November 18, 1878' and Clara, born on March 18, 1882. Hubert, the youngest of the family' first saw the light of day on August 25, 1886. Philomena became the wife of Frank Marmon, of Liberty township, this county, and is the mother of two children. Ignatius married Bernadina Schmidt and lives in Union township. They have one child. Frank married Lena Edelbrook and is engaged in farming in Greensburg township. They have three children. ■650 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Andrew married Flora Merschman, who has borne him one child. Charles •chose Nora Quinn as his life partner and they reside in Indianapolis, In- diana. Clara and Hubert remain under the parental roof. Mr. Rieman has lived his life so that he is held high in the esteem of all with whom he comes in contact, and the same may well be said of every member of his family. Both he and his good wife are genial, whole- hearted people of a high order of intelligence, and the influence which has emanated from their charming home circle cannot be estimated. The fam- ily belong to St. John's, at Glandorf, and Mr. Rieman's political prefer- ences are with the Democratic party, although he finds little time for such matters, as he is thoroughly devoted to his farm. While he is practically retired from active farming, he is still hale and hearty, an intelligent old gentleman and very amiable, as is also his wife. They have a very attractive farm. He and his wife take great pride in their garden, which furnishes the recreation and interest for them since they have reached advanced years. He has, in the past, served as a member ■of the school board, but generally has confined his attention to his farm. JOSEPH M. SHANK. Every state and nation must have its leaders, and we would join the choir of voices which honor their names and achievements. In spite of its numerous industries and commercial interests, wealth, we are told, is, in the last analysis, based upon the soil. If this be true, the back-bone of the American republic is the mass of toilers who have created wealth by convert- ing the waste lands into fertile fields, and have been content to let their lives be the shadowed backgrounds for the heralded deeds of those whom the world calls great. Many such are by the world unknown, but they have filled their niche, and have added much to the common good. Among those who have helped to make the history of Putnam county, both by reason of their own industry and inherited talent, is Joseph M. Shank. That enterprise characterizes this family, is evidenced by the fact that one uncle built and operated the first grist-mill in the county, and another the first hotel. Joseph M. Shank was born in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, January i, 1839. He is the son of Jonas and Fannie (Myers) Shank! The father of Mr. Shank was for many years a much-beloved preacher. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 65 1 being the first ordained minister of the Mennonite faith in Putnam county. The neighbors still relate incidents showing the devotion of this good man to his people. It is said that many times he neglected his business to attend and officiate at funerals or to visit the sick. For twenty-seven years this man went about preaching and doing good. He was born and educated in Maryland, and was twenty-six years old when he came to this county. Hav- ing learned to be a skilful blacksmith, he worked several years at this trade in Putnam county, locating on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres of government land. This farm is now the home of Samuel Shank. Jonas Shank married in Maryland, before he came west. Going back another generation, we find that the parents of Jonas Shank and grandparents of Joseph, were Christian and Mary Shank whose home was in Washington county, Maryland, where they spent their entire lives. Four of their children, Henry, Jacob, Christian and Jonas removed in their •early manhood to Putnam county, and a daughter, Sophia, also came west and married Henry Myers. They lived on a farm in the same county with their brothers until their death. Three brothers remained in Maryland. They were Fred, Noah and John. The maternal grandparents of Joseph Shank were John and Mary Myers. John Myers was a German by birth, coming to America before the "Revolutionary War, when he was still an energetic wide-awake young man. After his marriage in Maryland where he first settled, he too came west and selected Greensburg township, Putnam county, for his future home. He lived on a farm now occupied by Joseph Prowant. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Myers were: Jacob, Joseph, John, Samuel, Peter and Fannie, the mother of Joseph M. Shank, concerning whom this review is Avritten; Maria, Barbara, Abraham and Christian. Coming to this county, about 1832, the men of this interesting family all engaged in agricultural pursuits. Samuel it was, however, whose ambi- tion-extended beyond the farm to a grist-mill, which was the first to turn the quiet waters of the nearest stream to industrial use. And Peter, with the gregarious tastes, surrounded himself with the social life of a country tav- ern. This attractive social center was situated where Dupont is now. All of the members of this pioneer family belonged to the faith of their father, the Mennonite church and all have long since passed away. With this glimpse of the family inheritance of Joseph Shank, it is not surprising to learn that Mr. Shank impressed his personality so strongly upon the community that for many years he inspired its educational interests and held offices which, though political, gave him opportunity for honest and efficient service. 652 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Though he was born and died on a farm, agricultural pursuits did not limit his activities, as the varied interests of his life will show. After leav- ing school, he began the career of a farmer, first renting a farm But not content with this, he bought eighty acres, the land on which he now resides Ihis was ni the year of 1864, after three years of residence on rented prop- erty. Then began the work that brought out the sturdy characteristics that always elicit admiration. With his own hands, he cleared and drained the land, and erected the buildings in which to house his family and live stock Joseph M. Shank was twice married. His first marriage occurred in 1862, when he married' Samantha Neill, daughter of John and Anna Neill Their children were: Seth, Eldon, Emmet, John, Aaron._ Albert and Alban' ihe last two were twins, and died when three years of age Seth who became a school teacher, farmer and county clerk, married Margaret Ice and now lives m Paulding county, Ohio. Eldon married Zella Dangler and' moved to Ashtabula, Ohio. Their children are: Lester, Paul, William Cleota Elizabeth, Alice and Joseph. Emmet has had the responsible posi- tion of conductor on the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroad for over twenty years. He married Callie Burkett, who became the mother of three boys, Harold, Ralph and Joseph. Their home is in Lima, Ohio. John who married Creta Schuler, is also a railroader. His home is in Lima, Ohio Lela Hill became the wife of Aaron, whose residence is in Lima Ohio Aaron is a skilled mechanic. Joseph M. Shank's first wife passed away in 1878. Seven years later he married Sarah Kirkendall, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth Kirkendall of Putnam county, formerly of Columbiana county, Ohio. This marria-e occurred on August 12, 1885. " An interesting circumstance connected with the family history of the second Mrs. Shank is that her grandfather lived to be one hundred and five 3ears old. He and his wife moved from Columbiana county to Putnam county where they lived only two years, returning then to their former home m K 'l^'^J'"'^- ^^'^' children were: Benjamin, Edward, Van Anna, Elizabeth, Rebecca, John and Daniel. The maternal grandparents of the second Mrs. Shank were John and Ruth Crawford, residents of Columbiana county, where they lived and died. Their chilclren were : David, Perry, Samuel, who was killed in the Civil AVar; Sarah and Elizabeth, who was the mother of Sarah Kirkendall Shank Mrs. Shank s family figures prominently in the early history of Ohio as she- comes from a line of fighters, among whom was Colonel Crawford, who was captured by the Indians and burned at the stake. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 653 The children born to the second marriage of Joseph Shank were Ora, Eessie and Loa. Ora, who is an electrical engineer and lives in New Haven, Connecticut, became the husband of Elmer Trench; Bessie, the second daugh- ter, has remained single, as has also her sister Loa. All of Mr. Shank's ■children received their education in the county in which they lived. Bessie became a well-known and much liked school teacher and is now a book- keeper for the Buckeye Company at Continental, Ohio. Mr. Shank's brothers and sisters, Susan and Mary, were born in Mary- land. Of these, the former married H. S. Mellinger, a farmer living in Putnam county. Mary became the wife of S. W. Neill, and lived until her death where Joseph Neill now lives. Elizabeth married Jacob Stauffer and they made their home in Richland county until the latter was killed in the Civil War. A successful farmer in this county is Christian, the husband of Catherine Shank Brenneman. John, who married a Miss Hoover, who was then engaged in teaching school, is still living and making his home on a farm. Samuel married Nannie Donavon and resided in Greensburg town- ship. Barbara Ridenour became the wife of Jonas Shank, and they are living near Kalida, Ohio. Veronica, the youngest sister of Mr. Shank, married David Smith and now lives in Dupont. Joseph M. Shank always took a deep interest in matters concerning the schools, and it was this interest that led his friends and the citizens in general to make him a school director. During his term of office, the school work of the county was placed upon a higher and more efficient plane than it had formerly occupied. That he found time for public office is evidenced by the fact that for eleven years, Mr. Shank was township assessor and for twelve years served as township trustee. In national politics, Mr. Shank may be classed as a militant Democrat of the old school, but he reserves the right to exercise independence when it comes to voting in local elections. In religious matters, Mr. Shank casts his lot with the Methodists, and contributes of his means to that demonination. As a farmer, his interests have been for years along the line of raising fine live stock, and for miles around, the traveler hears of his splendid ■Chester White hogs, which are of excellent breed. In spite of his advanced years, Mr. Shank is very active both mentally -and physically. He personally superintends matters pertaining to the farm, and yet finds time to read and keep abreast with the times. Both he and his wife, who comes of Revolutionary stock, are among those who are most greatly esteemed in the community in which they and their families have -lived. 654 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. SAMUEL D. HENSEL. Biography does more than give voice to a man's modest estimate of himself and his accomphshments. Its function is to leave upon the pages of history the verdict of his neighbors and friends, with reference to his character and reputation in the community where he has lived. The life history of Samuel D. Hensel, the present postmaster at Continental, Ohio, has been such as to elicit just praise from his neighbors and from the men who know him best. He has always been loyal to every trust imposed upon him and has been upright in all of his dealings with his fellows. While he has prospered in a personal way, at the same time, he has always given his support towards promoting any cause which might advance the welfare of the community at large. Samuel D. Hensel is a man well known in Putnam county. Samuel D. Hensel was born, December i8, 1867, in Perry township, and is the son of George and Catherine (Smith) Hensel. George Hensel was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, and grew up there. He came to Dela- ware county, Ohio, early in life and remained there for four years. He was reared as a farmer and made this his vocation while living in Dela- ware county. On September 13, 1861, George Hensel was married in Delaware county, and immediately after his marriage, he moved to Put- nam county, settling in Perry township on sixty acres of land. He lived upon this farm for nine years, then sold it and removed to Monroe town- ship. Here he farmed eighty acres until his death on March 16, 1892, at the age of sixty-three years. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Dupont, Ohio, for over thirty-five years. He served as constable for many years. During a long period he displayed a keen interest in out-of-door sports. He was an active worker in the United Brethren church at Prairie Chapel, Union township. Mrs. Catherine Hensel, who before her marriage was Catherine Smith, a native of Delaware county, Ohio, was born on November 7, 1833. She was the daughter of Gilbert and Nellie (Cortwright) Smith. Mr. and Mrs. George Hensel were the parents of six children: Warner, who died on July 4, 1872; Harry, who lives at Jeffersonville, Indiana; Samuel D., the subject of this sketch; Manford, who died on March 18, 1900; Sher- man, who died in infancy; and George, who lives at home, but works in Lima, Ohio. Mrs. Hensel's father, Gilbert Smith, was born in New York state and left there alone at the age of twenty-one, walking with his worldly PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. gec possessions, tied in a handkerchief, to Worthington, Franklin county, Ohio, where he located. Here he learned the tanner's and shoemaker's trades' which he followed for some time. Later, he removed to Delaware county,' Ohio, purchased land and farmed until his death in 18817. He had a tan- nery on his farm. His wife, who before her marriage, was Nellie Cort- wright, was born in Lower Canada in 1799, and grew up there, coming to America at the age of fourteen years with her parents and settling in Delaware county, where they died. They came to this country during the Indian and British wiar, driving over Lake Erie on the ice in a sleigh. Mrs. Smith died in 1892. She was the mother of seven children, Laura, Julia, Amanda, Charles B., David, Catherine and Cicerio. All of these children are deceased with the exception of Catherine, who is the mother of Samuel D. George Hensel, the father of Samuel D., was the son of George and Mary (Howell) Hensel, the former of whom was a native of Pennsyl- vania, and the latter of Union county, Ohio. He came from Pennsylvania to Union county, Ohio, and there settled on a farm, Before his death, he- had accumulated two large farms and was considered a successful farmer. He died on the old homestead, as did also his wife. Samuel D. Hensel left home at the age of fifteen years and worked out by the month, but lived at home and paid his own way. He learned the carpenter trade and followed it for some time before his marriage. He also made bent wagon rims for nine years. For one year he was employed on the Nickel Plate railroad as a brakeman on both freight and passenger trams. He grew up in Perry township and here he received his education. With the exception of one year spent in Hancock county, he has always lived m Putnam county. The first year after Mr. Hensel's marriage, he lived at McComb, in Hancock county. After this he moved back to Putnam county and settled m Monroe township, on a farm of one hundred acres which he- bought. He farmed this one hundred acres for about twenty-two years and then sold out. He now has thirty-five acres near Continental, Ohio and one hundred and four acres in Canada. After Mr. Hensel's election as post- master, in 1914, he held a sale, selling all of his farm tools, fine animals machmery, etc., and then leased the farm to a tenant. He built a splendid residence in Continental, Ohio, where he now resides. Mr. Hensel was married February 8, 1890, to Martha Boggs, a native of Monroe township, born in 1869, and the daughter of Madison Boggs To this happy union, eight children have been born, all of whom are at home 656 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. They are as follow : Forrest, Blanche, Francis, Lyle, Maude, Clyde, Katie and Grover. Fraternally, Mr. Hensel is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Oakwood, Ohio. He is also a member of the Encampment and the Daughters of Rebekah. He served one term as trustee of Monroe town- ship and was also township supervisor and a member of the school board for 3. number of years. Mr. Hensel was elected postmaster in July, 1914, and is making an efficient record in this office. He is a stanch and active Democrat and for four years was one of the committeemen of the Democratic party, serving efficiently in this capacity. He has been for the past four years a member of the Mutual Telephone board. Although Mr. Hensel is not a member of any church, he was reared in the Methodist faith. He is a con- genial, jolly man and decidedly well met, always carrying a smile, at the same time bearing a high reputation in the community where he lives as a man of intelligence, charity and honorable, upright habits. JOSEPH VOGEL. Joseph Vogel, a sturdy offspring of the Fatherland, first saw the light of day in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, in 1856. He was a son of Anton and Katherine (Kramer) Vogel, both natives of Germany, the former having been born in Hesse and the latter in Gerolstein, and was one of their family of four children, the others being Katie, Clara and Anna. Both Katie and Clara have passed from this life, and Anna resides in Canton, Ohio, where she is the wife of John Buch. Anton Vogel, father of Joseph Vogel, was a young man when he emigrated from his native land to this country, and as a youth had mastered the baker's trade in his native land. After coming to this country he con- ducted a bakery in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, where the family lived for some time and where all the children were born. The death of his wife occurred al that place, after which he went to Cincinnati, Ohio. He en- listed in the regular army of the United States shortly after going there, and while he was in the service in the Southwest served during the Indian uprisings. After the war he returned to Cincinnati. Joseph Vogel was but six years old at the time of the death of his mother. His father brought him to Putnam county, Ohio, and placed him in charge of his maternal uncle and aunt, Anton and Eva Kramer, brother .«>si:i'ii \()(;i:i. ItKSIIiKXCK (IF .TOSKl'lI VOCEI. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. gr^ and sister. They were living on the place which is now occupied by Mr. Vog-el. Neither being married, they gave to the boy placed in their care the best of love and attention. Making his home with them as he did, he at- tended the schools of the neighborhood whenever possible, while he as- sisted his uncle in clearing land and getting it into a state of cultivation, which included more or less draining. When quite a youth he did a man's work on the farm, and today enjoys relating some of his experiences in chopping trees when a boy. He worked one entire day in chopping at a giant of the forest before it was felled. When twenty-one years of age Mr. Vogel was united in marriage to Anna Osage, a daughter of Frederick and Catherine (Huester) Osage, who resided on a farm one mile southwest of his home. There were four chil- dren in the Osage family, the others being Theresa, Mary and William. Theresa became the wife of Joseph Knueve, of Kalida, this county; Mary resides m Michigan, and William lives at Lima, this state. After mar- riage Joseph Vogel continued to live on the farm where he had been reared as a boy. On the day he attained his majority his uncle presented him with eighty acres of land, and later a partnership was formed when they pur- chased eighty acres additional. At the death of his uncle he inherited from him one hundred and sixty acres, making his entire holdings at the present time two hundred and forty acres. Anton Kramer departed this life in Februaiy, 1902, at the age of seventy-eight years. The aunt died some years previous, in 1885. Mr. Vogel's wife died in 1881, leaving two small children, Mary, born on June 3, 1879, and Theresa, born on September 9, 1880, the latter 'being about four months old at the time of the death of her mother. Mr. Vogel proved a most devoted father to his two little motherless girls and reared them to a beautiful young womanhood. Mary became the wife of Frank Unverfurth, son of Anton Unverfurth, and lives in Greensburg township and Theresa marned Henry Dickman, a son of William and Anna (Spiel' brink) Dickman. Henry Dickman is a native of the German Empire hav- ing been born in Hanover, and was one year old when he was brou-ht to , this country by his parents. They came directly to this county and ''for a time lived in Glandorf, later locating on a farm near Ottoville Henry be gan attending the district schools as soon as of suitable age, and until the time he was twenty-three years old he assisted his father in the work of the home farm. At that age he was married, and since that time he and his wife have made their home with Joseph Vogel, and assist him in the man- 42 658 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. agement of the homestead. Henry Dickman and wife are the parents of three children, as follows : Sylvester Joseph, born on January 18, 1905 ; Armella Mary, born on November 18, 1910, and Junilla Catherine, born on December 30, 1913. Within the last few years Mr. Vogel has erected a new residence on his farm and has built and repaired most of the outbuildings, so that at the present time it presents an attractive and up-to-date appearance. He and his son-in-law give considerable attention to general farming, following approved twentieth-century methods. In addition to farming, Mr. Vogel specializes in a fine strain of Hereford cattle, having produced many excel- lent bulls. Mr. Vogel's political preference is with the Democratic party, although he has never found time to devote to any special work in that line. Both himself and family are communicants of the Roman Catholic church, and the entire family stands high in the esteem of the community. He attends the St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf. Mr. Vogel is still vigorous, is good natured, and with his daughter and grandchildren form a happy family circle. JOSEPH C. VERHOFF. Among the families of Putnam county, whose members have worthily discharged their duties to their fellows and their community, no family takes higher rank than the Verhoffs,^ of whom several representatives are, today, prominently identified with the farming and rural social life of Greensburg township. For many years, members of this large family have stood for all that is best in business, moral and social life, and have wielded an influence that has been potential in the development and welfare of their community, being numbered among the enterprising and progressive citizens of the county. Because of the prominence which the family has enjoyed and the close rela- tions they have sustained to the welfare and prosperity of the locality which has been honored by their citizenship, they are eminently entitled to repre- sentation in a work of the character of the one in hand. Joseph C. Verhoff was born on his father's fann, Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, on March 15, 1873, and is the son of Theodore and Elizabeth (Egbers) Verhoff, pioneer settlers of Putnam county, and whose history of early life is to be found elsewhere in this volume. The subject of this sketch was one of the twelve children of Theodore Verhoff and his PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 659 early days were spent on his father's farm, where he assisted in the lar-e amount of clearing necessary to make the farm productive and profitabre He received his education in the township schools and remained with his par- ents until he became twenty-two years of age. While on the original farm the father purchased an eighty-acre tract for Joseph C. VerhofT in Union township, also another eighty acres for the use of his brothers. Owino- to the distance between fams, the subject of this review, at the age of twenty- two, moved to the farm operated by his brother, August G. Verhoff where he made his home.until the time of his marriage, on October 25, 1910, when Amelia Schroeder became his wife. They are the parents of one child Mary born on February 24, 1914. Mrs. Verhoff was the daughter of John and Mary (Kahle) Schroeder, natives of Putnam county, Ohio. John Schroeder was the son of Henry and Katrina Schroeder, natives of Germany, who came and settled m Greensburg township, Putnam county, in an early day To them were born : Frank, Charles, William, John, Ignatius, Mathias, Katrina, Dora, Mary (deceased), Anna, Theresa, Clara (deceased) and Philomena (deceased), the latter two having died very young. Mrs. Mary (Kahle Schroeder s parents were John F. and Bernadina Kahle, natives of Hanover Germany and who came to this country, settling in Putnam countv at about he time the town oi Glandorf, Ohio, was founded by the well-known Pro- fessor Horstman. To Mr. and Mrs. Kahle were born: Frank, Ignatius Paulma, Bertha, Bernadina, Theresa, Amalia and Mary. To Mr. and Mrs' John Schroeder, the subject's wife's parents, were born: Katrina, Berna- dina, Veronica, Amalia, Mary, Bertha, Philomena, Hilda, August Frank Herman, John and George. ^ ^lanK, Soon after the marriage of Mr. Verhoff to Amalia Schroeder they moved to the farm in section 29, Greensburg township, which was purchased rom his brother, Henry. This consisted of eighty acres of undeveloped and, bu which was put in first-class condition by the installation of a svs- em of drainage. On this place they erected the number of buildings abso- lutely necessary; being handicapped financially, but with true German in dustry and thrift, they were able to overcome the many obstacles to progress and today they can point to their place with no small degree of p^-ide the profitable results of their farm being due to their untiring energy and n deavorto succeed in spite of discouraging conditions. Besides carrying on the business of general farming, Mr. Verhoff is giving considerable attention to the raising of Short-horn cattle. aLcenuon Politically, Mr. Verhoff gives his support to the Democratic ticket but does not take active part in politics. Religiously, the family belongs ti St 66o PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Michael's Catholic church, Kalida, Ohio. In conclusion, it is quite opportune to mention that the subject is a man of keen observation and mental ability, is genial and unassuming and makes friends easily. His circle of acquaint- ances throughout the county is large. He is a man of good habits, ambi- tious, of kindly impulses and deservedly popular in the community. JOSEPH WARNECKE. The success of men in agriculture, or in any vocation, in fact, depends upon industry, economy and wise judicious management. Moreover, suc- cess depends upon character as well as upon knowledge. The business rela- tions of life demand confidence, and where that is lacking, business ceases. In every community, some men are known for their upright lives and remarkable common sense. Their neighbors and acquaintances respect them and heed their example. They win their way as a consequence of their untiring energy and correct principles of conduct and retain the respect of their fellow men by genuine work. Among the residents of Putnam county, Ohio, who have won for themselves success in agriculture, is Joseph Warnecke of Union township. Joseph Warnecke was born near Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, on March -15, 1870. He is the son of Henry and Christina (Verhoff) Warnecke. Henry Warnecke was born on- a farm near Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, of German parents, who were early settlers in this part of the county. After he was married, he moved to Union township, .in what is now section 2, on a farm of eighty acres. He erected buildings and cleared and drained the land. Afterward he acquired more land as fol- lows : Ninety-six acres in Union township, one hundred and forty acres in Fort Jennings, forty acres in section 2, in Union township, twenty acres in section 2, in Union township, and sixty acres in section 2, in Union township. He continued to live in Union township until his death, which occurred on September 4, 1907. His wife had died previously, about 1895. Both were buried in the cemetery at Glandorf. Henry Warnecke's wife, who, before her marriage, was Christina \'erhoff, was the daughter of Francis and Mary (Kramer^ Verhoff, and the sister of Theodore Verhoff. Mrs. Warnecke's grandparents, on her father's side, were born and lived and died in Germany. On her mother's side, they were Theodore and Gertrude (Veraking) Kramer, who were married in Germany, and who, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 66l after residing there for many years, came to this country when the elder Kramer was about fifty years old. They settled on a farm in Putnam county and had six children, William, Henry, Catherine, Christina and Mary, all of whom are now deceased, and Frederick, who still survives. Francis Verhoff, the father of Mrs. Christina (Verhofifj Warnecke, was born in Westphaha, . Prussia, and came to America in 1836. He settled near Glandorf, Putnam county, on a tract of twenty-six acres. He was a blacksmith by trade and became a first-class workman. Francis Verhoff and Mary Kramer were married in 1837. They had ten children, Theo- dore, Gertrude, Christina, Catherine, Mary Ann, Frank, Henry, William, deceased; Charles and William. The father of these children, prior to his death in 1863, owned a full section of land. Francis Verhoff's wife lived until 1901. They were loyal members of the Roman Catholic church, attending St. John's church of Glandorf. The children of Henry and Christina (Verhoff) Warnecke were Mary, Frank, deceased ; William, John, Joseph, Henry, Charles, Anthony, Theresa, Philomena and Bernard. Apiary married John Tenwalde, and they live in Union township; Frank, who is deceased, married Anna Hersing, and they lived at Kahda; Wilham married Mary Lauf; they lived in Fort Jennings; John married Mary Fggeman, and they lived at Ottoville; Henry married Katherine Goedde, and they live near Miller City ; Charles married Catherine Siefper, and they in Union township; Anthony married Mary Barlager, and they live in Union township; Theresa married Frank Dulle and lives near Miller City; Philomena married Herman Lucke, and they live near Miller City, and Bernard married Martha Marmon and they live in Pleasant township. Joseph Warnecke, the subject of this sketch, attended the Fortman school, in Union township, and lived on his father's farm until his marriage. He was married on April 28, 1897, to Mary Smith, a daughter of Joseph and Theresa (Kahle) Smith. Mrs. Warnecke's parents were married in Glandorf, Putnam county, and, after their marriage, moved to a farm in Union township, where he still lives on the farm. He owns two hundred and ten acres. He erected all the buildings on the farm he now owns. The children of Joseph and Theresa (Kahle) Warnecke are as follow: Mary, Elizabeth, Bernadina, Theresa, Helena (deceased), Amalia, Paulina (deceased), and Frances, deceased. Bernadina married Ignatius Rieman and they hve in Union township; Helena married Henry Erhart and they live in Union township; Amalia married John Missler, of Union township, and they reside with Mrs. Warnecke's father, Joseph Smith; Frances mar- °°^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ned Harry Nienberg, and she died three months after her marriage. The mother of these children, Mrs. Joseph Smith, died on November 25, 1914, and is buried in the cemetery at Kahda. After his marriage, Joseph Warnecke moved to a farm of ninety-six acres in section i, Union township. This farm formerly belonged to his father, from whom he bought the farm shortly before his marriage, and built a house besides many other buildings. He has also drained the land. To Joseph and Mary (Smith) Warnecke nine children have been born, Leonard, born on March 27, 1898; Joseph W., born on November 22, 1899 j Odelia, born on September 19, 1902; Urban, born on September 18, 1904; Leo, born on September 28, 1906; Walter, born on June 30, 1908; Mary F.' born on May i, 1910; Helena, born on April 13, 1912, and died at the age one year; Aloyisius, born on June 19, 191 4. Mr. Warnecke is engaged in general farming. He owns one hundred and thirty-six acres of land. Mr. Warnecke and his family are all mem- bers of the Catholic church. They attend St. John's Catholic church, at Glandorf. Mr. Warnecke belongs to St. John's Benevolent Society. Mrs. Warnecke belongs to the Mothers' Society of the church. Joseph Warnecke has served on the school board as a director for many years. He is a pros- perous, substantial farmer, who comes from a splendid family and who is highly respected for his many good qualities. Wn.LIAM H. EDELBROCK. Not alone are those worthy of historical honors who have moved along the loftier planes of action, but to an equal extent are those deserv- ing who are of the rank and file of the world's workers, for they are not less the conservators of public prosperity and material advancement. Through all the generations of life, recognition should be had of the true values, then should- full appreciation be manifested, for there can be no prosperity, if it be done justly, in scanning the acts of any man, as they affect his public, social and business relations. Here will be found mention of worthy citizens of all vocations, and at this juncture we are permitted to offer a resume of the career of one of the substantial and highly esteemed representatives of the agricultural interests of Putnam county, where he has spent his entire life and where he has not only attained a high degree of PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 663 success in his chosen field of labor and enterprise, but also established an imperishable reputation for uprightness in all the relations of life. William H. Edelbrock wlas born in Greensburg township, Putn^im' county, Ohio, August 12, 1861, and is the son of Andrew and Catherine (Herlage) Edelbrock. His paternal grandparents were natives of Prussia and came to this country soon after their marriage in 1834. On their arrival in this country, they decided to settle near the town of Glandorf, Ohio, which a few years previously was laid out as a village settlement by the well-know(n Professor Horstman, who came to that point in Putnam county with his little band of colonists. To the paternal grandparents were born: William, Henry, Frank, Charles, Christina, Andrew and two others who died en route during the voyage to America. The maternal grand- parents were also natives of Prussia and came to Putnam county some time prior to their marriage. They were married in Glandorf, Ohio, and settled on a farm in Greensburg township, Putnam county, where they lived until their death. To them were born: Catherine, Helena, Mary and Anna, all deceased. The father of the subject of this review was but a boy of six when his parents settled in this county near Glandorf. From this time forth he attended the school in Glandorf and lived with his parents, until the time of his marriage. After his marriage, he decided to live on a farm he pur- chased and which consisted of eighty acres in Greensburg township. At a later date he sold this farm, and in 1870 moved to a farm of two hundred and forty acres in Jackson township. In 1907 he moved to the town of Kalida, this county, where he bought five acres at the edge of the town, and lived a life of retirement. His death occurred on July 6, ,1913, and his wife died in Jackson township on August 20, 1892. To them were born twelve children, William H., Mary, Frank, Anna, who died April 23, 19 15, at the age of forty-nine years; Ignatius, Albert, Emma, Barney, Helena, John, Peter and Amalia, the last five named being also deceased. William H. Edelbrock attended the schools in Jackson and Greens- burg townships and lived on his father's farm during his youth and until he was about twenty-four years of age. On October 25, 1885, he was mar- ried to Clara Lemper, a daughter of William and Clara (Drop) Lemper, whose father was born in Glandorf, Germany, and the mother in Averfer- •den, Germany. They came to this country soon after their marriage and in 1868 settled on a forty-acre farm near Glandorf, Ohio, where they con- tinued farming, Mr. Lemper having been a practical farmer in the old 664 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. country. To the original forty they subsequently added more land and lived a very peaceful, successful life on the place until their death. To them were born : Clara, William, Agnes, Mary, and a son who died in Germany. Soon after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Edelbrock moved to the present resident farm which they own and which contains forty acres, located in section 7 of Union township. On this place they erected all of the buildings, previous to which they had partly cleared and drained the land for general farming purposes. In addition to farming, Mr. Edelbrock takes great pride ni his Jersey cattle, which he raises on a limited scale. He also maintains beehives of pure Italian and mixed strains, to which feature he devotes some attention and takes a great deal of pride in them. Mrs. Edelbrock devotes some attention to pouUry, including thoroughbred Rhode Island Reds. Mr. and Mrs. Edelbrock are members of St. Michael's Catholic church of Kalida, and are well known and highly esteemed by all who know them. Mrs. Edelbrock is regarded as a woman of gracious manner, genial dispo- sition and known to be a true help-mate to her worthy husband. Mr. Edel- brock, genial and unassuming in manner, easily wins friends, and always retains them. He has served as councilman in St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida, and is connected with St. Joseph's Benevolent Society. Because of his high personal qualities and farming success, he is eminently entitled to representation in a work of this character. ALEX DANGLER. It is by no means an easy task to describe, within the limits of this review, a man who has led an active and eminently useful iife, and, by his own exertions, reached a position of honor in the line of industries with which his interests are alhed. But history finds justification, nevertheless, in the tracing and recording of such a life history, as the public claims a certain property interest in the career of every individual, and the time in- variably arrives when it becomes advisable to give the right publicity. It is, then, with a certain degree of satisfaction that the writer essays the task of touching briefly upon such a record as has been that of the subject who now comes under this review. Alex Dangler, one of the well-known and enterprising- citizens of Put- nam county, Ohio, was born in Perry township, this county, August 6, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 665 1876, and is the son of John Adams Dangler and Jane (Shook) Dangler, both of whom are natives of Putnam county. The father of John Adams Dangler was a native of Pennsylvania, and his wife a native of Germany. They removed to the state of Ohio and became early settlers in Greens- burg township, Putnam county, where they lived until the time of their death. The wife of the subject's father was the daughter of John and El- nora Shook, who were early resident fanners of Putnam county and where they remained until taken away by death. John Adams Dangler remained under the parental roof for many years, assisting in clearing the wooded lands of the farm and getting it in shape for general farming. He received his education in the county schools of Greensburg township. He was married in 1875 to Jane Shook and to them were born three children, Alex, Mabel and Edith. Alex Dangler's father, after his marriage, went to live on the eighty acres in Perry township where his daughter Edith now lives with her husband, Stewart Brower. He re- mained on this place for a term of thirty-six years, draining and developing the land, after which he -removed to the town of Continental, Ohio, where he purchased twenty acres within the corporate limits of the town. To this he devotes most of his time and attention, but still retains ownership in the eighty acres heretofore mentioned. From time to time the subject's father owned more land than is recorded her. Plis daughter Mabel be- came the wife of Manford Shank, who resides in Ashtabula county, Ohio, and they have a family of six children. Mr. Dangler, Sr., is a supporter of the Democratic party, takes an active interest in the affairs of the commun- ity and is well liked by every one. The influence of this gentleman and his ancestors will be felt throughout this region for many years to come. Alex Dangler was reared on his father's farm, in Perry township, at- tending the neighboring country schools for a number of years, preparatory to entering college. He attended Crawfis College for one term, then went to Angola College for four terms. He was married, on March 21, 1898, to Clara Fender, a daughter of Michael and Laura (Huber) Fender, who were natives of Henry and Trumbull counties, Ohio, respectively. Michael Fen- der was born on October 8, 1846, and Laura (Huber) Fender was born on October 10, 1852. They lived on a farm in Henry county, Ohio imme- diately after their marriage, but later moved to a farm in Ionia county Michigan, and from there to a farm, which he purchased, consisting of two hundred acres, in Mecosta county, Michigan, where he died in October 1910, and where his widow still resides on one hundred and sixty acres of the original purchase. To them were born seven children: Mary ,C born ^^^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. on February 3, 1872, died nine months later; Emma Jane, born on August 19, 1873; Daisey Allvoretta, born on September 15, 1874; Zella Delia, born on October 25, 1879; John, born on July 18, 1879; Ricky, born on August 30, 1880; Austin Le Roy, born on July 12, 1884. Out of the two hundred acres there were forty acres deeded to the son, Austin, with whom the mother lives in Mecosta county. Of these children, Emma became the wife of Peter DesGranges and resides in Big Rapids, Michigan; Daisy married Charles Spence and resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan; Delia married Ed- ward DesGranges and resides in Henry county, Ohio; John married Ger- trude Fisher and resides in the town of Coral, Michigan; Austin married Stella Huff and makes his home on the original farm in Mecosta county. After Alex Dangler's marriage to Clara Fender he remained for a while on his father's place, rented various fields and then decided to follow the saw-mill and threshing business, according to seasons, and which busi- ness he continued for about twelve years. Being a man of keen observation and with an eye to increasing his income, he saw possibilities of greater earnings by engaging himself to the firm of Miller & Stallkamp, jobbers of heavy machinery, as a salesman. While in the employ of this company he covered territory consisting of Putnam, Paulding Van Wert, Allen, Henry, Hancock and other counties, in Ohio, and this experience gave him a fine opportunity for getting acquainted with a larger number of people, which served him to a good advantage. After these years of practical sell- ing and business experience, he decided to return to the business of farming and settled on his present place of residence. This place was purchased by the father in 1895, one-half of which was deeded to his son, Alex, on Jan- uary 18, 1901, and the other half to his sister. Great credit is due to Alex Dangler for the vast improvements made to this farm, and particular men- tion should be made of the up-to-date barn building, which is equipped with all kinds of modern improvements. This energetic, wide-awake and business-like farmer, not being satisfied to simply till the soil and raise stock, makes it his business to carry a line of farm necessities, such as silos, milk- mg machine, automobiles, gasoline engines, silo fixtures and other late in- ventions to bring the business of farming up to the highest point of effi- ciency with the least human energy. In the sale of silos, it is said that Mr Dangler has made more sales of these than any other agent for a similar line m the northwestern portion of the state of Ohio. Mr. Dangler and wife are blessed with a good-sized family, consisting of eight hvmg children, and his wife is found to be a woman of the best type, intelligent and amiable in disposition. The children are : Glen, born PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 55^ on February 2, 1901 ; Evelyn, born on September 9, 1902 ; Paul, born on November i, 1903; Laura Jane, born on January i, 1906; Hazel Rita, born on May 30, 1908; Marvin LeRoy, bom on December 18, 1909; Dale Mau- rice, born on April 28, 191 1; Mary Maxine, born on April 11, '191 3; Nelo, born on December 22, 1898, who died January 9, 1906. Manifesting- an abiding interest in the material welfare of the county, Mr. Dangler has given his influence and assistance to all enterprises with this object in view, and he also takes an active part in promoting all worthy means and measures for the advancement of his fellow man. All in all, he is a worthy representative of the steady, intelligent and progressive class that gives stability and character to the community, being broad-minded, with wide views of affairs and men and a true type of the enterprising American citizen of today. JOHN W. EDWARDS. To a great extent the prosperity of the agricultural sections of our country is due to the honest industry, sturdy persistency and uns^^^erving perseverance and wise economy which so prominently characterizes the farmers of the Buckeye state. Among this class of farmers may be men- tioned John W. Edwards, the subject of this sketch, who, by reason of his years of indefatigable labor and honest efforts, has not only acquired a well-merited competence in life, but who has earned the high esteem of all with whom he is associated. John W. Edwards, a native of Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, Ohio, was born on January 5, 1871. He is the son of Josiah and Susan (Breese) Edwards, the former of whom was born in Montgomeryshire, North Wales, May 30, 1826, and who was the son of Josiah and Mar- garet (Jones) Edwards. Josiah Edwards, Sr., was a farmer by occupa- tion. He lived and died in Wales. Josiah Edwards, Jr., and wife, and one child, came to America in 1855, in the spring, settling first in Utica, New York, where he was employed on a dairy farm. The following fall' m 1855, he came to Allen county, Ohio, and settled at Gomer. His first employment was with Griffith John, a contractor, who built the Pennsyl- vama railroad from Lima to Elida. The following summer he rented a farm on "Calico ridge," Sugar Creek township, Allen countv, and here he lived for about seven years, when he moved, in 1862, to Sugar Creek town- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ship, Putnam county, and settled on eighty acres of land one and one-half miles southwest of Vaughnsville. This farm was located on the Old Ridge road. It was in a virgin state at the time he purchased it, and had only an acre or two cleared. Josiah Edwards proceeded to clear and drain the land and improve it. He succeeded in getting it all cleared, except eight acres. He built a large frame house of ten rooms, in 1873, and a large frame barn in 1879. To this land, he later added forty acres more. He was always engaged in general farming, was a very successful farmer and attributed his success mostly to the raising of corn and hogs. He was also successful in raising horses. Josiah and Susan (Breese) Edwards had one child before they came to America. This child, John, who was but four years old when his par- ents came to Allen county, died the day after their arrival at Gomer. There were five children born to Josiah Edwards and wife, John was born in Wales on January 21, 1851, and died at Gomer on November 8, 1855; Mar- garet is the deceased wife of B. F. Thomas; Joseph B. is a farmer in Sugar Creek township, Putnam county; Mary is the wlife of Thomas S. Williams; John W. is the subject of this sketch. Josiah Edwards died on August 17, 1897, at the ripe old age of seventy-one. He and his wife were members of the Gomer Congregational church, of which he was a deacon for many years. Josiah Edwards was a Republican. He enlisted, in 1864, in the One Hundred and Fifty-first Regiment, Ohio \'olunteer Infantry, for one hundred days, and was attached to the Army of the Potomac. Fie was on duty, near Washington, D. C, at the close of the war. Josiah Edwards, Jr., was mustered into the service for one hundred days on May 13, 1864, and was mustered out on August 27, 1864. Mrs. Susan (Breese) Edwards, the wife of Josiah Edwards, Jr., was a daughter of John and Mary (Edwards) Breese, and was born in North Wales, in Montgomeryshire, May 13, 1827. She had one brother and five sisters, all of whom came to America, and all of whom, except one sister, Mrs. Sarah Morris, settled in Iowa. She settled in Vaughnsville and there died. Mrs. Susan (Breese) Edwards lived on the old home place until her death, November 5, 1909. John W. Edwards spent his childhood and youth on the old homestead of his father, southwest of A^aughnsville. He attended the old Bryne Tawa school, and after finishing school, continued helping his father on the old home place. At the age of twenty-two, Mr. Edwards was married to Zoe Gardner, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 669 who w'las born in Vaughnsville on January 14, 1872, and who was a daughter of Henry and Angehna (Calhoun) Gardner, the former of whom was the the sixth of seven children born to Samuel and Catherine Gardner, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Samuel Gardner was born in 1802, and died in Bluffton, Allen County, Ohio, in 1863. His wife, Cath- erine Gardner, was born on June 19, 1809, and died at Columbus Grove, April 16, 1887. Samuel Gardner was a blacksmith by trade, and a captain of militia during pioneer days. Pie was a Presbyterian and his wife a member of the Lutheran church. Henry Gardner was born in Richland county, Ohio, June 18, 1840, and from the age of eighteen years until 1890 was a blacksmith. He then became a merchant. Samuel Gardner moved with his family to Mercer county, Ohio, in 1850, and purchased an improved farm. He remained there eight years and then removed to Wayne county, and finally settled at Bluffton. Plenry Gardner enlisted in the Fourth Ohio Cavalry in 1861 and served three years in the Army of the Cumberland. He was honorably discharged at Cincinnati, Ohio. He was married in 1866 and engaged in hotel keeping, at Columbus Grove, Ohio, about a year, when he settled at Vaughnsville. He served as township trustee and as treasurer of the school district, and was a census taker in 1880. His wife, Angelina Calhoun, was born in Trumbull county, Ohio, October 24, 1845, and was a daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth Calhoun. Henry and Angelina (Calhoun) Gardner had five daughters, Minnie, Carrie, Zoe, who married Mr. Edwards; Maud and Blanche. Mr. and Mrs. Edwards were married on February 23, 1893,. After their marriage, Mr. Edwards rented his father's farm, the old homestead. This arrangement existed until after his mother's death, in 1909, at which time he purchased the farm from the heirs. The same year, February i, 1909, the Peoples Bank opened for business in Vaughnsville, and Mr. Edwards was elected as cashier of that institution, which position he has held up to the present time. Mr. Edwards, however, continues to supervise the operations of his farm. He has always done general farming. He moved from the farm and took up his residence in Vaughnsville in November, 1912, where he now resides. His residence, which he purchased in 1912, is a modern eight-room house, beautifully sit- uated, and bespeaks the character and culture of its owner. Henry Gardner, father of Mrs. Edwards, died on August 29, 191 1. All of his children, except Carrie, are still living. Mr. Edwards' sister, Margaret, who was born in America, April 24, 1856, and who died on January 20, 1881, had married B. F. Thomas and bore him one child, Josiah Thomas, who was reared by his grandfather. Mr. Edwards' brother. 670 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Joseph B., was born on November 27, 1859. His life history is recounted elsewhere in this volume. Mary J. Edwards, who was born on August 23, 1865, is the wife of T. S. WilHams, a farmer. John W. Edwards and his wife are members of the Congregational church. Mr. Edwards is a member of Vaughnsville Lodge No. 711, Knights of Pythias. He also occupies a responsible position in the life of Sugar Creek township, not only as one of its leading farmers, but as an officer in charge of its leading financial institution. This business brings him into intimate association with his fellow citizens. He enjoys their confidence, to an exceptional degree, and is much sought for advice and counsel. MATHIAS THEODORE VERHOFF. There is no calling, however humble, in which enterprise -and industry, coupled with well-directed purpose, willnot produce some measure of suc- cess. In the pursuit of agriculture, the qualities mentioned are quite essen- tial. Among the well-known and highly respected farmers of Union town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio, who have attained a definite degree of success in their special vocations and who, at the same time, have greatly benefited the community in which they live, is Mathias Theodore Verhoff, the gentle- man to a review of whose career, the attention of the reader is now directed. Mathias Theodore Verhoff was born on August 14, 1887, near Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, on his father's farm. He is the son of William and Catherine (Kerner) Verhoff. William Verhoff is the son of Francis and Mary (Kramer) Verhoff. Francis Verhoff was born in Westphalia, Prus- sia and came to America in 1836, alone, settling near Glandorf,- Putnam county, Ohio, on a farm. He was a blacksmith by trade, and proprietor of the first blacksmith shop in this county. He was well known for his high workmanship. Francis Verhoff was married to Mary Kramer in .1837. They had ten children, Theodore, Gertrude, Christina, Catherine, Mary Ann, Frank, Henry, William, deceased; Charles and William. The father of these children, before his death, acquired a full section of land in Putnam county. Mary Kramer, who was the wife of Francis Verhoff, was the daughter of Theodore and Gertrude (Veraking) Kramer, who were mar- ried in Germany and resided there many years, having come to this country when the elder Kramer was about fifty years of age. They settled in Put- nam county, Ohio, and were the parents of six children, William, Henry, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 671 Catherine, Christina and Mary, all of whom are now deceased ; and, Freder- ick, who is still living. Katherine Kerner was the daughter of Mathias and Elizabeth Kerner, the former of whom was born in Germany and the latter a native of Pennsylvania. Mathias Kerner came to this country and settled in Putnam county. Prior to coming to Putnam county, he spent three years in South Carolina. His wife came to Putnam county from Pennsylvania after the death of her parents. Mathias T. Verhoff attended school at Glandorf until he was fourteen years of age. Until he was nineteen years of age, he worked on his father's farm and then removed with his brother, J. Frank, to a farm in Union town- ship, which belonged to his father, where they worked for some years. Mathias T. Verhoff was married on June 5, 1907, to Philomena Uphaus, the daughter of Gerhard and Margaret (Wehrie) Uphaus. Gerhard Uphaus and wife were born in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio. He was the son of John and Catherine Uphaus, who came from Germany to this country after they were married. He was a farmer and settled near Glandorf on a farm, where he continued to live until the death of his wife, and where he afterward died. He and his wife were members of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf. Margaret Wehrie was the daughter of Clement and Anna Wehrie, who were born in Germany and who, at an early date, came to America, settling on a farm at Glandorf. They were well known among the early settlers and lived on their farm until their death. They were also members of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf. After the marriage of Gerhard and Margaret (Wehrie) Uphaus, they located on a farm in Jackson township, Putnam county. He died on Novem- ber 5, 1912. Their children were John, Anna, Josephine, William, Philo- mena and Mathilda. Mathias T. and Philomena (Uphaus) Verhoff came to their present farm after their marriage, which farm consisted of seventy-seven acres and which Mr. Verhoff bought from his father. He is engaged in general farm- mg and raises a high grade of stock. He and his wife have been the parents of four children, Ambrose William, born on August 18, 1908; Gerhard Mathias, born on October 22, 1910; Victor Francis, born on February 22, 1913. and Mathias John, born on April 2, 1915. Mathias T. Verhoff and wife are members of St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida. Mr. Verhoff is a member of the Catholic knights of Ohio. He IS an mdustrious young farmer, business-like in his manner, thrifty and ambitious, as well as a hard worker. He is eminently respected in the com- munity where he lives and popular among all of his neighbors. 672 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. JOHN MERSCHMAN. The best title one can establish to the high and generous esteem of an intelligent community is a protracted and honorable residence therein. John Merschman, one of the best-known and highly-esteemed farmers of Greens- burg township, Putnam county, Ohio, has resided in this locahty all his life. His career has been most commendable in every respect, well deserv- ing of being perpetuated on the pages of a historical work of the nature of this one. Like his sterling father before him, he has been a man of well- defined purpose, and has never failed to carry to successful completion any work or enterprise to which he addressed himself. Mr. Merschman has always applied himself very closely to his work and his industry has brought its reward. John Merschman was born in 1855 in the north edge of Pleasant town- ship, south of Ottawa. He is a son of Barney and Katherine (Hagenju- ger) ]\Ierschnian. Barney was born in Osnabruck, Germany, grew up there and married Catherine Hagenjuger. He was a shepherd in the old country, and out of this made the money with which to pay his passage to America. He was about thirty years of age when he arrived in the United States, locating in Putnam county, Ohio, on what is known as the Buscher fann, between Ottawa and Glandorf. To get a start, Mr. Merschman worked as a farm laborer by the day and later purchased eighty acres of land in the north edge of Pleasant township. Here he lived the remainder of his life, following the vocation of a farmer. He was also a veterinaiy sur- geon, leai'ning the latter profession in his native land, and after the people in his neighborhood learned of his skill in this direction they gave him plenty to do. He and his wife were the parents of ten children, two of whom died in early childhood. The eight living children are : Henry, of Miller City; John, of this review; Elizabeth, the wife of Henry Schulte, of' Ottoville; Mary, the wife of Wilham Unterbrink, who lives in Michigan; Katie, the wife of Ignatius Kreinbrink; Annie, the wife of Frank Goede, of Leipsic; Barney, a farmer of Pleasant township, and Theresia, the wife of Barney Moening, residents of Michigan. The father of these children died on April 7, 1909, and the mother died in May, 1898. John Merschman lived on the home farm until he was married, his marriage taking place on November 4, 1875, when he was united to Clara Gattman. She was born in Greensburg township, in this county, the daugh- ter of Joseph and Gertrude (Unterbrink) Herlager-Gattman. Joseph Gatt- JOHN .AIERSCHJIAX. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 673 man was born m Osnabruck, Germany, coming to this country and settling in Putnam county in an early day, where he was successfully engaged in farming. He owned his own farm and also operated a threshing machine outfit for many years, and was well known throughout the county. Joseph Gattman made two trips back to Germany to visit the scenes of his childhood days. Gertrude Unterbrink was also a native of Germany, coming to this country with her parents, who were early settlers in Greensburg township. They arrived about 1834, when the land was covered with timber, and wild animals and Indians roamed the woods. Here Gertrude Unterbrink grew to womanhood and married Mr. Herlager, of Greensburg township, and after his death she married Joseph Gattman. She was the mother of six children, of whom only two are living, Mrs. Merschman and Bernardina, the widow of George Bensman. x\fter the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. John Merschman they moved to where they now live in Greensburg township. He has cleared about twenty acres more of his farm since he came, remodeled and built an addition to his house, built good barns and has a handsome country home, substantial buildings, the whole presenting a very neat and attractive appearance. He is the owner of one hundred and nineteen acres of land, on which he carries on general farming and stock raising. John Merschman and wife are the parents of eleven children, Frank, Mary, Ameha, Veronica, Louie, Emma, Helena, John, Petronilla, and two who died in infancy. Frank married Katherine Klima and lives at Clover- dale. He and his wife have seven children, Harry, Clara, Leo, Lawrence, William, Veronica and Anna Maiy. The latter is the wife of Matt Kerner, and lives one-half mile south of Mr. Merschman. They have five children, Eleanor, Harry, Loretta, Emma and Victor. Amelia is the wife of Charles Ellerbrock and lives on her father's farm. They have one daughter, Mary. Veronica is the wife of Andrew Nieman and lives two miles west of her father's place. They have one daughter, Henrietta. Louise is the wife of John Kehres and lives near her father's farm, and has three children, Al- phonse, Donelda and Alberta. Emma is the wife of Henry Gerderman and they are the parents of one son, Amos. They live on a farm three miles south of her father's place. Helena is the wife of Henry Martin, a resident of Fort Jennings, and they have one daughter, Mildred. John is unmarried and lives at home. Petronilla is also living at home. John Merschman is not only a successful farmer, but he is a successful veterinarian, having learned the profession from his father. He has a large 43 6/4 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. practice in the county and his skill is widely known throughout his com- munity. The Merschman family are members of the Catholic church at Glan- dorf. John Merschman is one of the leading citizens of his township and a man whom it is a pleasure to know, enterprising, broad-minded and opti- mistic, a believer in all good things and a worker in all good enterprises. FRANK G. BENSMAN. Frank G. Bensman, a short sketch of whose career appears below, was born on the farm where he now lives, in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, on October 4, 1878. He is a son of Gerhard and Bernadina (Gardman) Bensman, the former of whom was a native of Osnabruck in Germany, who came to this country alone when quite a young man, locating at Glandorf, this county. He was a son of Anthony and Maria Elizabeth Bensman, both natives of Germany. The father died in his native land after the son Gerhard had come to this country, and about the year 1871 the mother joined the son here. One son, Henry, died in Germany before the family came here, while Maria remained in Germany, and Maria, Will- iam, Anthony, George, Augustus and Louise joined Gerhard in this country. This entire family has now passed away. For about two years after reaching Putnam county, Gerhard, father of Frank G. Bensman, worked out on farms by the day. After a time he began farming for himself and, in the course of time, purchased the farm where Frank now resides, which contains eighty acres. Gerhard purchased forty acres of this from a brother and the other forty from Henry Niese. Gerhard Bensman passed away in 1903, and is remembered as a man of industrious habits, devoted to family and friends. Frank G. Bensman's mother was Bernadina Gardman, daughter of Joseph and Gertrude (Unterbrink) Gardman, both natives of the German Empire, but who were, however, married in this country. They settled on a farm in this county, .where John Merschman now lives, and to them were born two children, Bernadina and Clara. The mother had been pre- viously married to Henry Herlage, and by her first husband became the mother of the following children : Katrina, Anna, Helena and Mary. The farm above referred to was the family home for a number of years, where both parents died. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 67^ Frank G. Bensman is one of a family of four children, the others being Elizabeth, Amelia and Anthony. Elizabeth became the wife of Ferdi- nand Rechtien and resides at Miller City. She is the mother of four chil- dren, and with her also lives her mother. Amelia is the wife of Bernard Rechtien and hves on a farm near Miller City. Anthony has remained unmarried. Frank Bensman attended the district schools near his home when a boy and remained under the parental roof until the time for his marriage, when he was united in wedlock to Amelia, daughter of William and Mary Unterbrink. Amelia Unterbrink was born on March 31, 1883. William Unterbrink was a son of William and Elizabeth (Hohenbrink) Unterbrink, who came to this country from Germany after their marriage. They first settled in Putnam county, on a farm in Greensburg township, and later moved to a farm south of Ottawa, where they passed the remainder of their days. They had the following children ; William, Carolina, Henry, Ther- esa, Frank and Joseph. William was educated in the schools of the' county and for seven years worked out among the farmers of the neighborhood. After his marriage with Mary Merschman, he located on a farm south of Ottawa and, subsequently, lived at Findlay, Liberty Center, Leipsic and Miller City, this state. They are at present residing at Durand, Michigan, where they went some time ago. Mary Merschman, Mrs. Bensman's mother, is a daughter of John B. and Christina (Hageman) Merschman, both of whom came from Osna- bruck, Germany, and settled on the farm now occupied by Barney Mersch- man, and on that farm both passed their remaining days. Their family consisted of eight children, namely: Henry, John. Elizabeth, Mary, Kate, Anna, Theresa and Barney. After his marriage, Frank G. Bensman and his bride moved to the farm formerly owned by his father. This contains eighty acres, and Mr. Bensman gives his attention mainly to general farming as practiced throughout this section. He also devotes some time to stock raising and has also a fine lot of poultry. In recent years he has remodeled the'' resi- dence, and also repaired outbuildings and added new equipment, so that the farm home is attractive and comfortable. Anthony, the single brother, makes his home with the subject and farms the eighty acres adjoining^ which he owns. He is thirty-nine years of age. The entire family are members of St. John's church at Glandorf, and in politics Mr. Bensman is a Democrat, who has given some time to politics. 676 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. He has served as road supervisor and is accounted one of the active men of the party in his neighborhood. Active both mentaUy and physicahy, and of high ambition to succeed along all legitimate lines, Mr. Bensman is of that class of men who stand for all that is highest and best in any com- munity. There are three children of the family, Raymond, born on June 8, 1906; Mary, born on June 24, 1908, and Agnes, born on June 27, 191 1. MARTIN LUTHER PRITCHARD. To manage a business with ability and profit, today, requires more than the mere display of the stock and the buying and selling. It is necessary that the merchant shaU have combined in his make-up, something of the psychologist, that he be more or less of a strategist, and that he must be prepared to do a great deal of hard work. These qualities are found com- bined to a marked degree in Martin Luther Pritchard, who has established a thriving mercantile business in West Leipsic, Ohio. Coming into this World on March 5, i860, in .Liberty township, Put- nam county, Mr. Pritchard is the son of Alexander Gibson and Elizabeth (Lee) Pritchard, who were the parents of four children, as follow: Arthur, who died at the age of three years; Jefferson A., who lives in Leipsic; Martin Luther, and Jane, who died at the age of four. Alexander Pritchard was born in Perry county, Ohio, in 1825, and was a physician who' practiced successfully in Putnam county, Ohio, having come to Putnam county in the 'fifties, where he practiced until his death in 1866. He was a prominent physician and a worthy citizen, being a justice of the peace and postmaster in old Leipsic. In politics, he was a Repub- lican and in religion a steadfast Baptist. His wife, a native of Virginia, died in 1900. AVith small opportunity to gain an education, Mr. Pritchard began work in a factory at an early age. By dint of hard work he managed to establish himself in the mercantile business and to educate his children, and great credit is due Mr. Pritchard, as he was thrown on his own resources early in youth, his family being in moderate circumstances. The general store which Mr. Pritchard now operates was established in September, 1883. On December 18, 1880, Mr. Pritchard married Luella White, the daughter of Robert and Nancy (Neely) White, whose biographies are briefly given elsewhere in this volume, in the sketch devoted to J. H. White. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 577 To the union of Mr. Pritchard and his wife, the foHowing children have been born : Clyde A., who married Maude Henry and is now ticket agent for the Nickel Plate Railway Company at Fort Wayne, Indiana, and has three children, Neal, Owen, Paul; Clarence Martin married Anna Dwar and is ticket agent on the Nickel Plate railway at McComb, Ohio ; he and his wife were the parents of two children who died in infancy; Eva L. married William C. Snyder, of Belleview, Ohio, and has two 'children, Martin and Donald; Harry Eugene married Emma Ladd and they have two children, Lucille Evaline and Francis; Harry is a motorman on rhe Ohio Electric railway and lives in Lima, Ohio; Louis Gilbert married Laura Robinson and is employed by the Temco Electric Company of Leip- sic; they have one child, Robert Louis; Ethel died when she was three years of age. Martin Luther Pritchard is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, Lodge No. 548, of Leipsic, also the chapter at Ottawa and Findlay Commandery. In politics he is a Republican and was on the school board for years, was township treasurer for two terms, and was postmaster of West Leipsic for about sixteen years, beginning his service under President McKinley and ending in April, 1914. He has also been corporation treas- urer for many years. Subject's four boys are Masons and his wife belongs to the Eastern Star at Leipsic. Speaking ill of no one and with a good word for all, Mr. Pritchard is a quiet, unassuming man who has gained success by close application and untiring effort, although it is foreign to his nature to indulge in vain boast- ing in regard to his accomplishments. Quick to grasp the opportunities presented to him, Mr. Pritchard is a man of strict integrity who is honored by all who know him. MATHIAS GERDEMAN. Among the farmers of Putnam county who have to their credit sev- eral years spent industriously and intelligently tilling the soil, is Mathias Gerdeman, of Union township. He comes from a good family, one that has always been strong for right living and industrious habits and all that contributes to the welfare of the commonwealth. Moreover, the Gerdeman family is one of the oldest in Putnam county. Such people are welcome in any community, for they are nation-builders, and as such push the frontier of civihzation ever westward and onward, leaving the green, wide-reaching 678 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. wilderness and the far-stretching plains populous with contented people and beautiful with green helds. Mathias Gerdeman was born on March 12, 1887. He is the son of Henry and Bernadina (Eickholt) Gerdeman, both natives of Putnam county, the former of whom was born on February 19, 1842, and who was the son of Caspar and Anna Gerdeman, natives of Germany. Bernadina Eickholt w,as born on May 15, 1846, and was the daughter of Barney and Elizabeth (Nieman) Eickholt. Henry Gerdeman was married to Berna- dina Eickholt on May 5, 1868. Throughout his life he was a farmer, but during his latter years he has lived retired with his son, Henry, Jr. His wife died on March 2-], 1915. They had twelve children, as follow: Charles, Andrew, Katherine, Barney, John, William, Elizabeth, Amelia, Josephine, Bernadina, Henry and Mathias. Mathias Gerdeman attended the Barney Fortman school in Union township and worked on his father's farm until his marriage. Mr. Gerde- man was married on May i, 1912, to Elizabeth Schumacher, the daughter of Joseph J. and Mary Elizabeth (Rechtine) Schumacher, of Pleasant township. He still lives on a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in that township. In fact, he has lived there for many years. Joseph J. Schumacher, father of subject's wife, was married twice. His first wife was Mary Wellman, and by this marriage there were twelve children, four of whom are deceased, as follows : Anna, Mary, Katherine, Amelia, Andrew, Frank, Benjamin, John; Elizabeth, Amelia, Anthony and John, deceased. Mr. Schumacher's second wife was Mary Elizabeth Rech- tine (mother of subject's wife), and by this marriage there were three children, as follow: Elizabeth, subject's wife, Eleanor and Anthony, deceased. Mr. Schumacher's second marriage took place several years after the death of his first wife. Of these children, Anna married Theodore Hasselman and lives in Leipsic, Ohio; Mary married John Bellman, who is now deceased; Kath- erine married Henry Bellman, and they live at Leipsic; Amelia married George Wuebken, who is deceased; Andrew married Amelia Maag and lives in Jackson township ; Frank married Mary Meyer and lives in Toledo ; Benjamin married Mary Niese and lives in Leipsic; John married Anna Maas and lives in Pleasant township on the farm with his father. The mother of these children died on August 20, 1907. After his marriage, Mathias Gerdeman moved to a farm of eighty- three acres in Union township. He bought this farm on March i, 1912. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 670 He has erected an addition to the house and made many other improve- ments. To Ml. and IMrs. Mathias Gerdeman one child, Mary Louise, has been born. She was born March 26, 19 14. Mathias Gerdeman has a splendid house and an attractive and well- kept farm. He is an able young farmer, popular with his neighbors on ac- count of his genial good humor. Moreover, he is well informed on all of the topics of the day and possessed of exceptional intelligence. He makes a specialty of raising thoroughbred Duroc Jersey hogs. Mathias Gerdeman and his family belong to the St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida. Fraternally, he is a member of St. Joseph's Benevolent Society. ANDREW J. RIEMAN. To a great extent, the prosperity of the agricultural sections of our country is due to the honest industry, the sturdy persistence, the unswerv- ing perseverance and the wise economy which so prominently characterize the farming element of the Buckeye state. Among this class may be men- tioned the subject of this life record, who though still a young man, has apparently mapped out a course in life for himself which not only will bring liim well-merited prosperity, but which also will win for him the high esteem and unlimited respect of all with whom he may be associated in any way. Andrew J. Rieman, member of the one of the oldest and most' highly respected families of the county, was born on his father's farm in Greens- burg township, Putnam county, Ohio, on November 14, 1872, being a son of Frank, Sr., and Mary TKarhoff) Rieman. Subject's father was a son of John and Mary (Mehring) Rieman, both natives of Oldenburg in Ger- many. They emigrated to this country early in their married life, lived for a time in Cincinnati, Ohio, and later came to Putnam county, where they settled on a farm and passed their remaining years. Andrew Pie- man's father was born in Ottawa township, this county. For further par- ticulars of the Rieman family, consult the sketch of Frank Rieman, Sr., -found elsewhere within the pages of this history. Andrew J. Rieman attended the district schools near his home, when a boy, and remained on the family homestead until he started out in life for himself. When thirty years of age, in 1902, he was joined in wedlock to Sophronia, daughter of John and Clara (Gattman) Merschman. There were eleven children in the Merschman family, as follow : Frank, Mary, 68o PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Amelia, William, deceased; Sophronia, subject's wife; Lucy, Emma, Lena, John, Petronella and Harry, deceased. For two years after their marriage Andrew Rieman and his wife remained in the home of his parents and then took up their residence on the present family homestead, where they have since lived. This farm contains eighty acres and formerly belonged to his father. Since obtain- ing possesion of it, he has erected a splendid barn and other buildings, and is making it, in every way, an up-to-date farm home. He carries on gen- eral farming, and is uniformly successful with his crops. Andrew Rieman and family are members of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf, and in politics he is a Democrat, being quite active ^v'ithin the ranks of that party. He is an honorable and ambitious young man, who is bound to make a useful place for himself in the world. Mrs. Rieman is a pleasant and agreeable young woman, and, both coming from the oldest and best families of the county, they have from earliest childhood had held before them the highest standard of conduct, which they in their turn are passing on to the little one in their home. There is just one child, Hen- rietta, born on August 30, 1908. For history of Andrew J. Rieman's wife, see sketch of John Merschman, her father, of Greensburg township, on another page of this history. LANCE M. WYNKOOP. Among the young farmers of Putnam county who are bringing, to the management of their farms the latest scientific methods in agriculture, and who are definitely pointing the way to a better system of farming than ever prevailed in the past, there are few who are better known in the section in which they live than is the gentleman whose name is noted above, an intel- ligent young farmer, who not only is making a success of his undertakings in that line, but who for years has been a very successful and popular school teacher in the neighborhood of his home in Greensburg township. An earnest exemplar of the latest methods of farming and a conscientious in- structor of the youth in his vicinity, Lance M. Wynkoop is doing a good work in the world, and no history of Putnam county would be complete without adequate mention of the important details of his life and genealogy. The biographer, therefore, takes pleasure in calling the attention of the reader at this point to the subject of this interesting sketch. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Lance M. Wynkoop was born in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, October 27, 1882, the son of Milton and Sarah (Crow) Wynkoop, the former of whom was bom in the town of Gilboa, this county, and the latter of whom was born on the farm on which her son, Lance M., now lives, in Greensburg township. Milton Wynkoop was the son of Isaac Wyn- koop, one of the pioneers of this county, who in his day and generation was one of the best known and most influential residents of the section in which he so long lived and labored. He not only cleared a considerable tract of land, making clear the ways for his descendants to find a comfortable home in what was a wilderness when he came to this county, but he found time in connection with his extensive personal affairs to give much attention to the affairs of public concern, and was ever found actively participating in all movements which had as their object the betterment of local conditions. Milton Wynkoop was reared at Gilboa, this county, and evinced in his early youth an unusual aptitude for study, proving so efficient in his studies that as a young man he began teaching school in the neighborhood. He followed this important calling for several years, even after his mar- riage, and then opened a general store at Miller City, this county, this ven- ture proving so profitable that he started a similar store at Kiefersville. Later he opened a store for the sale of agricultural implements at Conti- nental, and continued in business in that place for sixteen years, or until his death, being one of the most successful and popular merchants of that town. His death occurred in May, 1905, while his widow is still living, in Continental. Milton Wynkoop was an ardent Republican and took a promi- nent part in the political affairs of the county. He was a member of the Knights of Pythias, and was one of the most active workers in the local lodge of that order. Milton Wynkoop was united in marriage to Sarah Crow, daughter of Miles and Lena (Schmidt) Crow, pioneers of Putnam county, the former of whom was bom in Columbiana county, Ohio, August 21, 1825, the ninth child of Abraham Crow, a native of Pennsylvania, who moved to Colum- • biana county with his parents at an early day in the settlement of that part of the state. The Crow family were brilliant lights in the old Covenanter church, m Pennsylvania, in the earlier days, and many of the same family are still promment people in Washington and Butler counties in that state In his early life Miles Crow was the proprietor of an ashery, but during the rest of his life was engaged in farming. He was for many years one of the most active workers in the Christian church in the neighborhood in which he hved, and his example was ever a good one in the community. He married 684 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. prison. Casper and Anna Gerdeman were prominent and influential rnem- bers of the community in which they lived. They are buried in Gwindview cemetery. Barney Eickholt and wife, Elizabeth, who was a Niemann, emigrated from Germany to Putnam in an early day and settled near Glandorf. They were the parents of six children, Joseph, Martha, Henry, William, Charles and Bernadina, the last of whom was the mother of Henry Gerdeman. Henry Gerdeman, Sr., was married to Bernadina Eickholt, May 5, 1868. He was a farmer throughout his life, but during his latter years has retired from the active work of the farm. His wife died on March 27, 1915. They were the parents of the following children: Charles, who married Anna Bush; Andrew, who married Ida Dalinz, and is now deceased; Catherine, the wife of Henry Hamburg; Barney, who married Anna Brinkman; John,' who married Mary Lang; William, who married Mary Schroeder; Eliza- beth, the wife of Henry Verhoff; Amelia, the wife of William Marmon; Bernardina, the wife of Joseph Marmon; Henry, the immediate subject of this review ; Mathias, who married Emily Schumacher. Henry Gerdeman, Jr., was educated in the schools of Union township. He lived on his father's farm until his marriage on May 5, 1910, at which time he was married to Emma Marshman, the daughter of John and Clara (Gattman) Merschman, the former of whom was born in 1855, in the north edge of Pleasant township, south of Ottawa, and was a son of Barney and Catherine (Hagenjuger) Merschman. Barney Merschman was born in Osnabruck, Germany, and was there married to Catherine Hagenjuger. He was a shepherd in the old country. John Merschman's wife, the motlier of Mrs. Gerdeman, was born in Greensburg township, and was a daughter of Joseph and Gertrude (Unterbrink) Gattman. Joseph Gattman was bom in Osnabruck, Germany, coming to the United States in an early day, and was a well-known farmer in this county. Gertrude Unterbrink, also a native of Germany, came to this country with her parents, who were early settlers in Greensburg township. They arrived in the United States about 1834. Gertrude Unterbrink first married a Mr. Herlager, of Greensburg township, and, after his de^ath, became the wife of Joseph Gattman. She was the mother of six children, of whom only two are living, Mrs. John Merschman and Bernadina, the widow of George Bensman. John Merschman and wife had eleven children, Frank, Mary, Amelia, Veronica, Louise, Emma, Helena, John, Petronella, and two who died in infancy. After his marriage, Henry Gerdeman, Jr., moved to a farm which he PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 5gc had purchased and where he hved for two years. This farm consisted of seventy-four acres. Mr. Gerdeman later moved to a farm owned by his father in Union township which consisted of one hundred and ten acres. Mr. Gerdeman and his family and parents lived together until the death of the mother on March 27, 1915. Mr. Gerdeman's father is still living with him on the farm. Henry Gerdeman and all the members of his family are devout Catho- lics, belonging to St. Michael's church at Kalida. The family are well known in this section of Putnam county, and are highly respected for their industry, thrift, economy and neighborly good will. JACOB S. MYERS. The sketch which follows, dealing with the man whose name appears above, his brother Samuel and their sister Maria, is the story of plain and honest manhood and womanhood, of sturdy industry and well-directed effort along chosen lines. Jacob S. Myers was born on December 21, 1852, on a farm in Greens- burg township, Putnam county, Ohio, where he now makes his home Samuel Myers first saw the light of day in 1855, and Maria three years later. They are children of Jacob and Lydia (Shank) Myers, the former bemg a well-grown youth when he came with his parents from their home m the state of Maryland. The journey was made overland in a wagon considerable time being consumed en route. The parents Were John and Mary (Dillon) Myers, whose children were, Abraham, John, Samuel Jacob Peter, Joseph, Christian and Henry. The parents were in their declining years when the children induced them to come and make a new home in a new country that was rapidly being settled in this part of Ohio. Jacob Myers an other son, the father of Jacob S., later came with his uncle, Peter Mvers'and his cousin, Martin Myers. Others came together and joined the rest of the family. Later, two more sons, Peter and Henry, came, when Peter settled in Perry township m Putnam county, and Henry settled in Paulding county Ohio After the family reached Putnam county, they settled on a tract of 'eiohtv acres, which they had secured from the government, and set about the task of clearing their land of the timber and preparing- it for cultivation. They in time, developed an excellent farm and were among the most highly respected citizens of the community at the time of their death. Jacob, father of our 686 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. subject, assisted in clearing the home farm and developing the land and, later, on his own account, he entered a tract from the government, contain- ing sixty-four acres, and this same land forms a portion of the holdings of Jacob S. Myers at the present time. After he had his grant of eighty acres in fair condition, Jacob Myers purchased from his father an addi- tional tract of sixty-four acres and also cleared that of timber. On this farm he made his home, after the time of his marriage, about the year 1846. He chose as his wife Lydia Shank, a daughter of Michael and Bar- bara (Wideman) Shank, both of whom were natives of Canada and came to this country after their marriage. They came by boat on the Great Lakes, as far as Toledo, Ohio, and thence overland to their destination in Putnam county. They entered one hundred and sixty acres of land from the gov- ernment and in the course of time developed a fine farm. The mother passed away while the family was still living on this farm and the father later lived in Elkhart, Indiana, where his life closed. The thirteen children of the family were : Eve, Susan, Tina, Fannie, Catherine, Mary, Barbara, Esther, Maria, Sarah, Michael, Elizabeth and Lydia. As above stated, Michael and Barbara (Wideman) Shank, the parents of Jacob S. Myers, came to the farm where they are now living, which was the family home for many years. Both parents have passed into the Great Beyond, leaving behind them, to their children, a rich heritage in the knowl- edge of lives passed in industry and humility. The father died in 1875, and the mother in 1886. Jacob S. Myers received his education in the district schools near his home and, in early manhood, assisted his father in the work about the homestead. The parents were members of the Mennonite church, and in this faith the children were reared and are today members of that body. Jacob has served as township assessor for a term of two years and also as township supervisor, discharging all the duties thus devolving upon him in a manner highly satisfactory to all. Jacob, Samuel and Maria are unmarried and operate the farm which they own. Their holdings total two hundred and sixty-eight acres, and the farm is considered one of the finest in the township. All the buildings are in a good state of repair. They have an excellent equipment and being industrious, get good returns for the labor expended. By industrious habits and frugal manner of living, they have amassed a goodly portion of this world's goods, but better still is the high esteem in which they are held by all who know them on account of their honorable and well-directed lives. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 687 FLORIAN STOEPFEL. Among the successful, self-made men of the present generation in Putnam county, Ohio, whose efforts and influence have contributed to the material upbuilding of the commimity, Florian Stoepfel occupies a con- spicuous place. Being ambitious from the first, but surrounded with none too favorable environment, his early youth was not especially promising. Resolutely facing the future, however, he has gradually surmounted the difficulties in his way and, in due course of time, has arisen to a prominent position in the agricultural circles of his corhmunity. In addition to this, he has won the confidence and esteem of those with whom he has come in contact. For years, he has stood as one of the representative citizens of the locality, honored by his citizenship. Florian Stoepfel was born on February 28, 1877, in Bavaria, Germany. He is the son of Gregoire and Crescentia (Essen wan ger) Stoeppel, both natives of the same place, who died in Germany. Gregoire Stoepfel was a farmer all of his life. One year after his death, his widow, with her son and daughter, came to this country, and joined Florian Stoepfel, who had crossed the sea some time previous. The mother settled on a farm in Greensburg township, where she still lives. Her children are : Florian, the subject of this sketch; Lucas, Louis, Mary and John, deceased. Lucas mar- ried Mollie Siebeneck and lives in Putnam county; Louis is unmarried and lives in Cloverdale; Mary married Frank J. Verhoff and lives in Ashtabula county, Ohio. Florian Stoepfel attended school in the old country and, when fifteen years of age, came to America and settled near Glandorf in Putnam county. He worked on various farms, during the first few years after his arrival in this country, and finally purchased forty acres in Union township, before his marriage. Florian Stoepfel was married on October 28, 1903, to Josephine Uphaus, the daughter of George and Margaret (Wehrie) Uphaus. George Uphaus was the son of John and Catherine Uphaus, who came from Gerrriany after their marriage. He was a farmer-and settled near Glandorf on a farm where he continued to live until his death. He and his wife were members of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf. Margaret Wehrie was the daughter of Clement and Anna Wehrie, who were born in Germany and who, at an early day, came to this country, settling on a farm near Glandorf, Putnam county. They were well known among the early settlers and lived on this farm until their death. They were also members of St. John's Catholic 688 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. church at Glandorf. Mrs. Stoepfel is the sister of Philomena Uphaus, the wife of Mathias Theodore Verhofif, whose sketch is found elsewhere in this volume. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Stoepfel, they moved to the farm where they now live in Union township. Since Mr. Stoepfel's marriage, he has acquired twenty acres in addition to his original purchase of forty acres, before his marriage. He is a general farmer, but makes a specialty of rais- ing cattle. He does considerable well drilling, under contract for the farm- ers of the community in which he lives, and has been very successful in this work. To. Florian and Josephine (Uphaus) Stoepfel, five children have been born, Clara, born on February 7, 1905; Matilda, born on December 19, 1906; Laura, born on September 22, 1908; John, born on October 30, 1910, and Joseph, born on July 28,, 19 13. Florian Stoepfel and wife belong to St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida. They are devout members of this, church and contribute liberally of their means to its support. Mr. Stoepfel is an energetic and ambitious young farmer, who has adopted progressive methods in everything that per- tains to the work of the farm. He is in every respect a representative citizen of Union township, where he lives. ALONZO RAGER. Putnam county has been fortunate in the character of its farmers and much of its material prosperity can be attributed to the fact that its fanners have kept abreast of the times, and it can hardly be questioned that as such they are an index to the civilization of the community. Its farmers are progressive and up-to-date and it follows that the standard of the com- munity will be high. Thousands of banks have been organized within the last few years in order to supply the needs of the farmer. In fact, the crops of the farmer furnish most of the money for the smaller banks throughout the United States. The wholesome living, which is the good fortune of the farmer, is a big factor in keeping up the general tone of a county. Alonzo Rager is one of the prominent and influential farmers of Union township. Alonzo Rager was born in Franklin county, Ohio, October 26, 1874, the son of Solomon and Helena (Coon) Rager. The grandfather of Alonzo Rager was John Rager, who lived in MR. AND MRS. ALONZO RAGER. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 58q Franklin county, Ohio. He was of Pennsylvania Dutch descent. He and his wife were the parents of ten children, Elizabeth, Adam, George, Hiram, Solomon, Joseph, Henry, Edward, Mary and Alice. Mr. Rager's maternal grandparents were Luke and Susan (Arnett) Coon, the former of whom was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, October 8, 1826, of Scotch-Irish de- scent. He was reared on the farm of his parents, and upon reaching man- hood was married to Susan Arnett, a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch par- entage. They had six children, John, George, Sarah, Jennie, Helena and Emehe. Luke Coon, after his marriage, continued farming in Pickaway county, where he was born, and in 1856 moved to Illinois. His wife hav- mg died in 1859, he remarried, and continued to live in Illinois until 1882, when he returned to Ohio and made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Rager.' Solomon Rager was born on June 23, 1850, in Franklin county, Ohio. He was educated in this county and reared as a farmer. He was married on January 18, 1872, to Helena Coon. After his marriage he remained on the farm, m Franklin county, and on August 23, 1884, he moved to Put- nam county, where he continued to farm until his death, which occurred on January 17, 1886. His wife received a good education in Macon, Illinois ■and It was m that state their their marriage took place. To Solomon and Helena Rager were born the following children- Ohve, Alonzo (the subject of this sketch), Luke, Elmer, Lewis, Chester and Verda. Olive, who died on December 31, 1893, married Benjamin Good. Luke, who lives in Sugar Creek township, married Hattie Brown and has two children. Elmer, who lives in Middletown, is married and lias four children. Lewis, who lives in California, married Myrtle Dresky and has four children. Chester, who lives in St. Louis, Missouri, married Naomi Summers. Verda married John Anderson, a farmer of Sugar Creek township, and has four children. Solomon Rager, the father of these children, was a Republican. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Winchester. His wife is still living and makes her home with her son Lewis on the old home place. The residence on this farm was erected in 1888. Alonzo Rager was educated in the Union township schools and lived on his father s farm. He worked out for four years by the year on various farms. Mr. Rager was married to Ola Dicus, the daughter of Scott and Mary (Campnell) Dicus, of Union township, Putnam county Scott Dicus was a native of Perry township, Putnam county, Ohio and was born on September 2, 1847. He was the son of Jacob and Hannah . kixdki;. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 7IJ, of Ohio. Starting in to learn the business when a mere youth, he has made it his hfe work, and the success which has attended, his efforts is ample evi- dence of his ability. As a newspaper editor, as a county official, as a mem- ber of the school board of Ottawa, as a successful business man, as a pub- lic-spirited citizen and as a man devoted to his home and family, George D. Kinder may justly be included among the truly representative men of his county and state. George D. Kinder was born in Franklin, Warren county, Ohio, Novem- ber 6, 1836, a son of Captain George and Ehza (Schnorf) Kinder. On the paternal side he traces his ancestry back to the burghers of Holland, and the Dutch characteristics of thrift and conscientious devotion to duty have beea handed down through each succeeding generation. After receiving a good common school education, the youthful George entered the printing office of his brother when he was fifteen years of age. His brother, at that time, was the owner and editor of the Haiiiilfou Telegraph, one of the leading papers of that city. He served as an apprentice for a few years and learned all the little details which go to make a successful newspaper man. He then worked as a journeyman printer until 1862, when he went to Sandusky,. Ohio, and established the Erie County News, a Democratic weekly, which. he published until 1864. He then moved his newspaper plant to Port Clin- ton, Ohio, and founded the Ottawa County News. He continued this paper for only a short time and then disposed of it to advantage and purchased the Greenville (Ohio) Democrat. This paper was not very prosperous when Mr. Kinder took charge of it, but, under his able management, it was soon put on a paying basis. For two years he remained in Greenville at the head of the paper and then disposed of it at a handsome profit. His next ven- ture was with the Bncyrus Forum, which he managed and edited for Thomas Coughlin until the summer of 1867. Mr. Kinder came to Ottawa, Ohio, in June, 1867, and purchased an mterest in the Putnam County Sentinel, becoming the editor and general manager of the paper. A year later he became the sole owner of the^paper, retaining the ownership until in January, 1900. A complete history of this- paper is given in the newspaper chapter elsewhere in this volume. Dur his long connection with the paper Mr. Kinder made it one of the leadi Democratic papers of this section of the state. While he was always ct fearless advocate of the principles and policies of his party, he was always fair to his political opponents and won their resi^ect if he did not secure their favor. As long as he was connected with the paper he refused to become a candidate for public office, although he was frequently importuned mg ing 714 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. to do SO by his many friends. It is safe to say that, for a quarter of a cen- tury, he was the leader of his party, not only in local matters, but also for many years one of the men who helped to shape the policies of his party in -State affairs. Serving frequently on congressional and state committees, he was thrown in touch with the leaders of his party in the state, and was thus given an opportunity to be of benefit to the party whose cause he so ably ■ espoused. After retiring from the Sentinel in 1900, Mr. Kinder became a candi- date for county treasurer and was elected, in the fall of the same year, by a handsome majority. His first term gave such universal satisfaction that he was renominated by his party and again elected, filling the office for a ■period of four years. He introduced many needed reforms in the admin- istration of the duties connected with the office and had the satisfaction of knowing that his changes in the conduct of the office have been followed by his successors. After leaving the treasurer's office, Mr. Kinder was elected a member of the board of public affairs, and has been re-elected ■every two years since the passage of the law creating the office. His present term expires in January, 1916. The only other public office which he has held was that of school director, filling a position on the board of Ottawa for five years. When Mr. Kinder retired from the newspaper business, in 1900, he never expected to identify himself with a paper again, but the call of the press could not be denied. Immediately after leaving the treasurer's office he found himself unable to keep away from the Sentinel office, and few ■days went by which did not see him at his old desk. He assumed complete editorial management of the Sentinel in 191 1, and continued in this capacity until 1913, when A. P. Sandles became the editor. Since that time Mr. Kinder has devoted himself to the local department of the paper, and the chances are that he will retain his connection with the paper as long as he is able to get to the office. For considerably more than half a century Mr. Kinder has been in the newspaper business, and it is probable that there is not a man in the state who can ec[ual his record for continuous service. Mr. Kinder was married in February, 1869, to Zella Gordon, and to this union have been born two children, Gordon and Zella. Gordon was educated in the Ottawa schools and later graduated from the law depart- ment of Ohio State University. He married Charlotte Duncan and has two interesting little children. He is now practicing law in Martins Ferrv, Ohio. Zella, the other child of Mr. and Mrs. Kinder, is the wife of J. C. ^Spencer, a real estate and insurance agent of Findlay, Ohio. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 715 Mr. Kinder has been a director of the Ottawa Home and Savings As- sociation for many years and has extensive property interests in his home town. As a newspaper man he has been unusually successful in a financial way, and has always invested his money in local enterprises. In his social connections, Mr. Kinder is a member of the Masonic fraternity, holding his membership in the blue lodge, chapter and council at Ottawa, and in Shaw- tiee commandery at Lima. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Royal Arcanum. The publishers were glad to avail themselves of Mr. Kinder's services in the preparation of the present history of Putnam county. His connec- tion with the leading newspaper of the county during the past half century and his active participation in every phase of the county's development makes him as able an editor as could be secured for a work of this kind. FRANK F. VERHOFF. Among the men of sterling worth and strength of character who have made an impression upon the life of the locality in which they live, none .have received a larger reward of popular respect and regard than Frank F. Verhoff, whose family name is well known throughout this section of the ■county. Lifelong residence in one locality has given the people an oppor- tunity to know him in every phase of his character, arid that he has been true to life in such measure, is manifest in the degree of confidence and regard in which he is held by those who know him. Frank F. Verhoff was born in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, March -24, 1847, and is the son of Francis and Mary (Kramer) Verhoff. The paternal grandparents were born, lived and died in Germany, and the maternal grandparents, Theodore and Gertrude (A^eraking) Kramer, were married in •Germany and resided there many years. Coming to this country when Mr. Kramer was about fifty years of age, they settled on a farm in Putnam ■county, Ohio, and to them were born six children, William, Henry, Catherine, Christena, Mary and Frederick, all of whom are now deceased, excepting a son, Frederick. Francis Verhoff, father of Frank F. Verhoff, was born in Westphalia, Prussia, and came to America in the year 1836, by himself, and settled on a small tract consisting of twenty-six acres, near the town of Glandorf, Putnam' •county, Ohio. He, having learned the trade of a blacksmith, bore the reputa- 7l6 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. tion of having started the first shop of this kind in Putnam county, the same having been operated in connection with the farm for many years. This shop carried a reputation for doing first-class worlcmanship and furnishing high-grade material for the work at hand. About the year 1837, Francis Verhoff and Mary Kramer were joined in wedlock and took up their residence on the former's farm. To them were born eleven children, Theodore, Gertrude, Christena, Catherine, Mary Ann, Frank, Henry, William, now deceased; Charles, William and Florentine. The father, prior to his death in 1863, had acquired a full section, consisting of six hundred and forty acres of land. With the assistance of his sons, the greater portion of this land was cleared and prepared for general farming and the raising of stock. Mr. Verhoff was one of the pioneer settlers of this community, coming here shortly after the founding of the town of Glandorf . by Professor Horstman, who was a native of Germany. Francis Verhoff and wife were active members of St. John's Catholic church, of Glandorf, Ohio, from which church they were buried during the year 1901, leaving behind them reputations for high-class citizenship and setting a good example for posterity to imitate. Frank F. Verhoff, the subject of this review, received his education in the county schools and lived under the parental roof until the time of his marriage on April 30, 1873, and up to which time he had acquainted himself with the necessary knowledge for farming by assisting his father around the place. His wife was Catherine Mersman, whose parents, Henry and Eliza- beth (Recker) Mersman, were natives of Germany, but who came to this country separately. By their marriage, besides Catherine, were born Theresa, Henry and Mary. Theresa is the wife of Henry Drerup and lives in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio; Henry is married to Anna Hulker, and now lives in the town of Glandorf, Ohio. Soon after the marriage of Frank F. Verhoff, he, with his wife, took up their residence on the one hundred and forty-four acres which was deeded to him at the time of the elder Verhoff's death, being a portion of the six hundred and forty acres acquired during his lifetime, all of which was divided among the sons. The children born to Frank F Verhoff and wife are : Elizabeth, born on January 20, 1875, and deceased on January 4, 1878; Anna, born on November 19, 1877; Mary, born on February 24, 1881, and Frank, born on March 11, 1884. Of these children, Anna became the wife of Frank Kahle and to them were born four children, their mother now being deceased; Mary was married to Lawrence Hamel and they have three chil- dren, and reside near Kalida, Ohio; Frank married Nora Schoeder and they PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 717 have three children, the latter family making their home on his father's farm. Besides general farming, a specialty is made of Shorthorn cattle and Duroc hogs. Frank Verhoff's wife died on March 23, 1884. Mr. Verhoff is a stanch supporter of the Democratic party. He is a member of St. John's Catholic church of Glandorf, Ohio. In farming, poli- tical and social circles, Mr. Verhoff enjoys a wide acquaintance and is deserv- •edly popular, possessing, to a marked degree, those qualities of character which win and retain friendship. He is quiet, unassuming and very intelli- gent. He is retired from active work. FRANK KAHLE, SR. Although some time has elapsed since the subject of this memoir was called into the life beyond, yet his memory is still fresh in the minds and hearts of many of his friends and neighbors. Frank Kahle was a popular man in his own community and had the reputation of being a man of bound- less energy and ambition. It is said that those who live the closest to us know us best and, this being true, Frank Kahle was indeed a worthy man, for those most closely associated with him hold him the dearest in their memories. Frank Kahle, Sr., was a native of this county, born in Greensburg town- township on his father's farm on December 21, 1839. He was a son of John F. and Bernadina (Wilberding) Kahle, who were among the oldest settlers of this community. The Kahle family has, throughout a long stretch •of years, been numbered among the best citizens of this section and the sub- ject of this memoir added his quota to the excellency of the family name. Frank Kahle was reared on his father's farm in Greensburg township and passed his entire life on the one homestead. In early manhood, he was united in marriage to Bernadina Brinkman, born in this county in 1846, a daughter ■of Henry and Mary (Rieman) Brinkman. The Brinkman's were both na- tives of the German Empire, and upon emigrating to America, they first located in Cincinnati, Ohio, where, however, they remained but a short time. They, eventually, came to Glandorf, Putnam county, and later engaged in farming. There were two children in the family, Bernadina, widow of Frank Kahle, and John. John chose Minnie Maag as his helpmeet and they were the parents of three children : Frank, Harry and Francis. Frank Kahle's father was one of the colonists who came from Germany /1 8 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. with Father Horstman and settled the town of Glandorf. His father was John Kahle, and with Father Horstman, preceded the rest of the colonists, who remained in Detroit, and Father Horstman and John Kahle prepared the settlement for them and they came from Detroit a short time later. His son, Joseph, is president of the Peoples Bank of Kalida, a sketch of whom is found elsewhere in this volume. To Frank Kahle and wife was born a family of twelve children, as follow: Mary Wilhelmina, deceased; John Frank, John Heinrich Joseph, John Ignatius Gustav, Mary Bernadina Amalia, Theresa Bernadina, Mary Helen Elizabeth, Mary Frances Paulina, deceased; John Heinrich Bernard, Anna Maria Theresa, John August Louie, deceased, and Maria Clara Wil- helmina. Of these children, Mary married Frank Schrader and lived in Greensburg township up to the time of her death. She passed away five years ago and is survived by her husband and nine children. John Heinrich Joseph married Wilhelmina Smith and is the father of six children. Mary Bernadina Amalia became the wife of Hubert Smith and is the mother of eight children. They reside in Greensburg township. Theresa Bernadina remains unmarried, and lives with her mother. Mary Helena Elizabeth is the wife of Frank Smith and is the mother of six children. That family lives in Union township, this county. John Heinrich Bernard chose Anfia Schroeder as his wife and lives on the old family homestead; he is the father of one child. Anna Maria Theresa married Joseph Grote and has one child. Maria Clara Wilhelmina resides with the widowed mother. John Frank mar- ried Anna Verhoff, who died later. He is now in the sugar-beet industry. There are four children in ^that family. John Ignatius Gustav married Katrina Duling and they reside on a farm in Greensburg township, where they are raising a family of six children. Frank Kahle possessed considerable of this world's goods. His father had left him a goodly portion, but by habits of thrift and energy he greatly added to it until he had accumulated quite a fortune. The farm on which his widow continues to reside, contains two hundred acres and it has on it the finest buildings to be seen in many miles. It easily ranks as one of the very finest farms in Putnam county and ranks with the very best throughout this state. Mrs. Kahle has kept up her interest in the farm home, and in spite of her years, is closely associated with her son, Benjamin, in the active manage- ment of the farm. Her vitality, both mentally and physically, is far beyond that of the average woman of lesser years and she is well versed in all that pertains to the best interests of their business. The farm is given over to the cultivation of grain and the raising of cattle. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ^ig, Frank Kahle's death occurred on February 23, 1898, and both himself and family were of the parish of St. John's, Glandorf. It is all too true that our influence lives, a vital force, long after we are gone from this world. This is well when our lives have been all that they should be, and to be deplored when evil influences have been set in motion by us, but the children, of this good man can well be thankful that his life was so lived as to shed a beneficent influence on, not only the ones of his immediate household, but the charm of his personality permeated the lives of his large circle of friends. BENJAMIN EDELBROCK. Benjamin Edelbrock, member of the well-known family of that name,. connected with the early history of Putnam county, Ohio, was born on his. father's farm in Greensburg township on May 20, 1879. He is a son of Henry and Theresa (Siebeneck) Edelbrock, and Henry in his turn is a som of Peter Edelbrock, who, together with his wife, came from their native: home in the Province of Hanover, German Empire, as members of the colony headed by Father Horstman, which founded the city of Glandorf in this, county. This was about the year 1834, and the Edelbrocks have been prom- inent in the life of the county ever since. Benjamin Edelbrock remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage. When a boy he attended the district schools, near his- home, and during spare times was educated in the work about the farm home. He chose as his bride Miss Elnora Kracht, daughter of Frank and Theresa Kracht, with whom he was united in marriage on June 23, 1903. Frank Kracht, present county commissioner of Putnam county was born at Cmcinnati, Ohio, on December 25, 1851, and six years later was brought by his parents to this county, where they located on a farm near Glandorf. He married Theresa Hoffman, born in Glandorf, on January 6 1859, and to their union was born a family of five daughters, namely Ameha, born on August 22, 1878; Theresa J., born on March 18 1880 • Laura A., born on November 8, 1881 ; Elnora, born on April 24, 1883 and Carolme, born on January 27, 1886. The mother of this familv died on August 29 1886, and Mr. Kracht later united in marriage with Anna Neidert, who bore him six children. Her death occurred on June i^ 1901 and he was agam married, this time to Catherine Pund. Mr. Kracht was for many years a farmer and thresherman and in this way formed a wide 720 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. -acquaintance. Being a man of pleasing manner, when he entered the polit- ical arena, his success was an assured thing from the start. He has been a ■contractor, has served as clerk of Ottawa township and also as its treasurer, and is at present filling out his term as county commissioner. Of Mrs. Edelbrock's sisters, Amelia married Louis Welde and resides in Ottawa. She is the mother of four children, one being dead. Laura married Anthony Prusendorfer and is now widowed. She makes her home in Defiance, this state, where also Caroline, who has never married, resides. Theresa married Henry Fembert and lives in Pleasant township, Putnam •county. After marriage, Benjamin Edelbrock and his wife took up their resi- ■dence on the farm where they now live. This contains forty acres, given to him by his father at the time of his marriage, to which he has added another twenty. The land has since been well cleared and -drained. All the buildings have been erected by him and are in good condition. Mr. Edel- brock conducts general farming and also raises a few head of cattle each year for the market. Into the home have come four children, namely: Velma, born on March i6, 1904; Clarence, born on April 10, 1905; Ray- mond, born on "July 19, 1906, and Mabel, born on February 21, 1912. Mr. Edelbrock is a most agreeable man to meet and Is able to number his friends by the score. He is a Democrat in politics and his religious affiliation is with St. John's at Glandorf. He is an active and ambitious young man, -with the natural industry of his family. BARNEY GERDEMAN. A member of one of the oldest and best-known families in Putnam ■county, Barney Gerdeman, a prosperous and progressive farmer of Union township, this county, enjoys the esteem of all who know him and very properly is accorded a place as among the leading citizens of the part of the county in which he was born and where his whole life has been spent. His wife, also, is a member of one of the old families of the county, and the two are very popular in their large circle of acquaintances. Barney Gerdeman was born in Union township, Putnam county, Ohio, May II, 1873, the son of Henry and Bernadina (Eickholt) Gerdeman, both natives of Putnam county, the former of whom was born on February 19, 1842, the son of Caspar and Anna Gerdeman, natives of Germany, the latter MK. Ai\D JIK.S. BAliXEY (iERDKJIAX. n aa.- '■ .^g'.-i.VoMP - - .." -igtaasf- - RKSIDKXCI-: AXD I!.\i;x OF I'.AKXKY ( ; KK I IKM A X. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 72 1 of whom was born on May 15, 1846, the daughter of Barney and Elizabeth (Nieman) Eickholt, also natives of Germany. Caspar Gerdeman and his wife, Anna, came to America from Germany and located in Putnam county, Ohio, at an early day in the settlement of the county. Here they cleared a farm, and on this farm reared their fam- ily and spent the remainder of their lives. They were the parents of seven children, Caspar, Joseph, Henry, Mathias, Theodore, Mary and Elizabeth. Of these, Theodore served in the Civil War as a member of an' Ohio regi- ment, was captured by the enemy and died in a military prison. Caspar and Anna Gerdeman were prominent and influential members of the community in which they lived and were active in all the good works of that neighbor- hood. Their bodies are lying at rest in the Grandview cemetery. Barney Eickholt and his wife, Elizabeth, who was a Nieman, also im- migrated from Germany, coming to Putnam county at an early date and ■settled on a farm near the town of Glandorf, where they made a prominent place for themselves in the estimation of their neighbors and where they spent the rest of their lives, their bodies lying at rest in the Glandorf ceme- tery. They were the parents of six children, Joseph, Martha, Henry, Will- iam, Charles and Bernardina, the latter of whom was the mother of Ber- nard Gerdeman. Henry Gerdeman grew to manhood on the paternal farm near Glan- dorf, receiving his education in the village school. He was united in mar- riage to Bernardina Eickholt on May 5, 1868, and made his home on a farm of one hundred and ten acres, which he bought in Union township. He cleared this farm and improved it in excellent shape, erecting thereon a good class of buildings and bringing it to a high state of cultivation, becoming known as one of the most prosperous farmers in that neighborhood. Dur- ing late years, Henry Gerdeman has been retired from the active work of the farm, though still living on the old home place, which is now the home of his son, Henry. His wife died in March, 191 5. To Henry and Bernardina (Eickholdt) Gerdeman were born twelve children, as follow: Charles married Anna Busch and lives in Union town- ship; Andrew, who married Ida Baling and is now deceased; Katherine, who married Henry Hamberg and lives in Jackson township, this county; Barney, the subject of this sketch ; John, who married Mary Lang and lives at Delphos, Ohio; William, who married Mary Schroeder and lives in Greensburg township, this county; Elizabeth, who married Henry Verhof¥, and lives near Columbus Grove ; Amelia, who married William Morman and 46 722 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. lives near Leipsic, this county; Josephine, who is unmarried; Bernadina, who married Joseph Morman and Hves in Greensburg township; Henry, who married Emma Merschman and hves on the old home farm, and Mathias, who married Emily Schumacher and lives in Union township. Barney Gerdeman was reared on the old home farm in Union township and attended the neighborhood school in his youth, making a good account of the time spent in the school room. He assisted his father on the farm, remaining there until his marriage in 1898, when he moved upon a farm of ninety acres in Union township, that had previously been purchased by him, where he has lived ever since. This farm he has improved in fine shape, his buildings being substantial and of a modern type, the place presenting a general air of prosperity which marks its owner as a progressive and up-to- date farmer. On October 19, 1898, Barney Gerdeman was united in marriage to Anna Brinkman, daughter of Barney and Bernardina (Wehrie) Brinkman, both of whom were born in the Glandorf neighborhood, in this county, their parents having been among the numerous German immigrants who colon- ized in that part of the county at an early day. For some years after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Brinkman lived in Greensburg township, and later moved to a farm in Jackson township, where Mrs. Brinkman is still living, Mr. Brinkman's death having occurred on March 28, 1914. Barney Brink- man was one of the best known men in the county. He had served the public faithfully and well in the capacity of county commissioner, and was deeply interested in local public affairs. He also had served his township as a" public officer in various capacities and had always been attentive to the needs of the community. His chief activities were confined to the farm, however, and he had prospered in his labors. To Barney and Bernardina (Wehrie) Brinkman were born thirteen children — Joseph, Anna, Bernadina, Mary, Amelia, Andrew, Frank, Elizabeth, Josephine, Matilda, Elnora, Caroline and Loretta, of whom all are living saA'e Bernadina, Elizabeth and Josephine. The Brinkman family were members of the St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida, and took an active part in the affairs of that parish. Mr. and Mrs. Gerdeman belong to St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida, and are active participants in the various beneficences of that parish. They are popular and well Hked in the community in which they live, and are regarded as among the leaders in the social and civic life of that section of the county. They have no children. Mr. Gerdeman is not only a good farmer, but is recognized generally as an excellent business man and a man of fine executive ability. He is a director of the Peoples Bank at Kalida, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. ^^^ a director in the fire insurance company at the same place, and has served as a member of the county fair association, in all of which service he has ex- hibited executive qualities which have gained him the highest confidence of his business associates. Mr. Gerdeman is a Democrat, and takes a good deal of interest in the county's political affairs. He has served as supervisor of public roads m his home township; he has held various other township offices during the past fifteen years, and in other ways has shown his high interest m public affairs. JOHN T. MATHENY. If asked to present a list of occupations which, because of their very nature, interest and inspire, few there are who would include farming or if they did, this vocation would not head the list. Here and there, however are men who, by their attitude toward their work, make of the meanest task a pleasure, and thereby dignify both the doer and the thing they do Were you to travel through Putnam county, Ohio, one of the 'farms which wordd immediately attract your admiration is that of J. T. Mathenv theTel^' f-f;P-^ed fence and well-kept lawn, in front of the house t'o the neatly-stacked woodpile m the rear, there is evidence not only of thrift but of mtelhgent personality back of it. And there is, for the owner love' 7 1868^ He ^f^T' "" ^'T " ^'"''' ^"^"^"^ '^°""^>^' ^hio, on March M.thf ■ f r '°" ^'""'^ ""^ ^^^''^ (^°g^^«) Matheny. Samuel Matheny figured prominently in the politics of his county, having acceptablv came f "". °' '"^"^'^^ ^"^"^ ""^^^ ^^P"'^'-- administrat ons He came from Virginia to Delaware county, Ohio, where he worked on a farm until the discovery of gold in California fired his ambition, and, in the yea" of 1849 he, hke many others, went to seek his fortune in th W^ ^He traveled by way of the Isthmus of Panama. For four years he me wkh success a. a miner, but -finally, home called louder than fo tune and he dropped his pick to follow the plow back in the county he had left The retun. journey also was made by way of Panama. Soon a ter ht'retur: to Ohio he rnarned Adelia Rogers, removed to Kalida, Ohio and b ecar^e merested in buying and shipping stock, and farming. He bo'uX and de ve oped a large tract of land near Kalida. He was a'faithful member of the" tltrm h^r d *'' '"'' °' '^'""^^ ^^*->'' -h-h took place on 724 PUTNAM COUNTY, .OHIO. John T. Matheny had three sisters and one brother. They were Eva, Clara, Emma and Howard. Of these, Clara married H. M. Summers, a real estate dealer living in Ottawa, and they have five children ; Emma married a hardware merchant, named Basil Sparling, and they live in Monroe, Mich- igan, and they have three children. Going back another generation, we find that Mr. Matheny's grandparents on the father's side were born and died in Virginia, and that their children were James, William, Robert, Samuel and Jane. The children of the maternal grandparents were John^ Howard, Marion, Mary, Sinah, Emma and Adelia. John T. Matheny's school days were interspersed with wholesome farm work, yet it seems he did not allow his tasks to crush him ambition. He at- tended school in Kalida, and when still a young man, married Nettie Varner, on December 10, 1902, daughter of W. J. and Annie Varner. Mr. Matheny's wife also came from a substantial old family of pioneers whose ambition brought them from Virginia early enough to travel on horseback, for there was no other mode of transportation. The grandfather on the paternal side took advantage of conditions by trading with the Indians who lived within the vicinity of the settlement. W. J. Varner, father of Mrs. Matheny, is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. He was born in Greensburg township, Putnam county, in 1848, and married Annie Simon, of that township, whose parents, also, were early set- tlers and prominent in the county. That Mr. Varner was public-spirited is shown from the fact that he was treasurer of the township, and for ten years was a member of the county board of agriculture. For six years after his marriage, Mr. Matheny gave all of his attention to farming. He then moved to the old W. J. Varner homestead in Greens- burg township, Putnam county, where he still resides. This is a splendid farm of one hundred acres. The children born to John T. Matheny and wife are : Nelson Varner, born on September 8, 1903 ; Howard Samuel, born on . September 4, 1909; John Wilson, born on November 18, 1912. The two elder boys are attending school. John T. Matheny has been unusually successful in raising Jersey cattle and Duroc hogs, but, not content with present efforts, he is preparing to make extensive improvements on his property. Like his father, he is a Republican, and has held public office, having served on the county council and as corpora- tion clerk while living in Kalida. Everybody knows the Mathenys, and everybody likes them. As members of the Methodist church they have many friends, and are among those whom we call the leaders in the community in which they live. Mr. Matheny is a Free and Accepted Mason. He has PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 725 always kept in close touch with public affairs. So genial and wholesome are John T. Matheny and wife that their home is a social center. It has never been bound by narrow interests. In all of his activities, Mr. Matheny is assisted by his able and charming wife. ROBERT WILFORD DOWNING. Robert Wilford Downing was born on October 6, 1870, in Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, Ohio, on the old Downing homestead. He is the son of Robert and Rachel (Hooper) Downing, the former of whom was born three miles east of Canton, in Stark county, Ohio, June 15, 1821, and who died on November 21, 1874, at the age of fifty-three years. He was the son of Adam and Sarah (McLothen) Downing, who were natives of Pennsyl- vania, and who settled first in Stark county, Ohio. They came to Allen county in 1837, where they entered a section of land near Rockport. Here they spent the remainder of their lives. Robert Downing, the father of Robert Wilford, grew up on this Alien county farm. He came to Putnam county in 1863, and located in Sugar Creek township, where he bought two hundred and forty acres of land. He followed general farming until his death. He received his early education in Stark county, leaving that county at the age of sixteen. He was married in Allen county, September 3, 1857, to Rachel Hooper, who was born on October 10, 1833, in Franklin county,' Ohio. She was the daughter of Philip and Rachel (Stevenson) Hooper, the former of whom was a native of Scotland and who came to America, settling first in Virginia. Later, he moved to Franklin county, Ohio. He served in the Indian War. He was married in Maryland to Rachel Stevenson, whose mother was a native of Germany and who first settled in Maryland and later moved to Franklin county, Ohio. Philip Hooper lived in Franklin county, Ohio, for several years, when he migrated to Putnam county in 1839, settling about two miles south of Columbus Grove in what is now Allen county Here he spent the remainder of his life. Philip and Rachel Hooper had thir- teen children, all of whom are now deceased except Philip, Jr., a brother of Robert Wilford Downing's mother. Mrs. Rachel Downing was next to the youngest child. She died on September 21, 1907. Robert and Rachel Down- mg had three children, Albert, born on April 17, i860, and died on No- vember 7, 1897; John M., born on June 15, 1862, and died on July 6, 1902. and Robert Wilford, the subject of this sketch. 726 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Robert Wilford Downing was born on the old homestead farm of his father, where he now resides. Here he spent his childhood and youth and here he grew to manhood. He attended the district schools and since leaving school has followed farming. When nearly thirty years of age, Mr. Down- ing was married on September 23, 1900, to Anna E. Shusser, the daughter of Wilham and Nancy (Garner) Shusser. Mrs. Downing was born on September 27, 1870, in Sugar Creek township, Putnam county. After his marriage, Mr. Downing continued farming on the old home place. His farm of one hundred and sixty acres joins the town of Vaughnsville on the north- west and is on the Kalida road. His residence commands a fine view of Sugar creek and the surrounding country. Mr. Downing has remodeled his residence, which is the house where he was born, is built on generous lines and bespeaks the comfort and culture of its occupants. Mr. Downing built a large and commodious barn in 1912, and from time to time has added other buildings as occasion demanded. He now has one of the most completely- ecjuipped farms in Putnam county. Mr. Downing is a good judge of live stock and raises thoroughbred Shorthorn cattle. Robert Downing, the father of Robert W., was a member of the radical wing of the United Brtehren church. He was township treasurer for two terms and was a stanch and active supporter of the Republican part}^. Mr. Wowning's great-grandfather on his maternal side, John Stevenson, whose father was a native of Germany, was a native of Maryland and a slave- holder. He never left the state of Maryland and was known as "Granddad John." Both great-grandparents on the Hooper and Stevenson sides of Mr. Downing's family were Revolutionary soldiers, and added much to the credit Of their family by valiance and bravery. Both were slaveholders. Philip Hooper, the grandfather of Mr. Downing, died on the old Hooper home- stead south of Columbus Grove, about 1844. His wife, the grandmother of Mr. Downing, lived to be ninety-three years of age and died in Columbus Grove about 1887. Mrs. Downing's father, William Slusser, answered the call for volun- teers in the War of 1861 and enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served for three years, when he was mustered out of service. Mrs. Downing is a member of the Christian church. Mr. Downing is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 711, at Vaughnsville. He is a Republican in politics and has been trustee of Sugar Creek township for three terms. In addition to other activities, he was nominated by his party during the last election, for county commissioner. PUTNAM, COUNTY, OHIO. 727 JOSEPH WEBSTER NEILL. Joseph Webster Neill, one of the best-known agriculturists of Greens- burg township, Putnam county, Ohio, is a native born son of this county, having first seen the Hght of clay on his father's farm on November i6, 1859. He is a son of Seth W. and Mary A. (Shank) Neih, the former born in Hagerstown, Maryland, and the latter a native of this county. Seth W. was a son of John and Anna (Crow) Neill, who, in their youth, were among the earlier settlers of this county. They became acquainted during the early pioneer days and were married, locating on a farm in section 11 of Greens- burg township, where they passed through the experiences common to pio- neers in a new country. They were the parents of seven children, namely : Webster, J. T., Martin, William A., Susan, Samantha and Elizabeth. John Neill died on March 27, 1863, at the age of fifty-eight years. His wife had preceded him into the Great Beyond by a few days only, her death having occurred on March 8, 1863, when in the forty-ninth year of her age. Seth W. Neill secured such education as the schools of that time afforded, being, however, rather limited in their scope, but he received from his careful father the best training in the art of successful husbandry. He remained with his father for a time after his marriage, on April 19, 1857, to Mary A. Shank, a daughter of Jonas and Fanny Shank. They were among the early settlers of this county, having come here from their native home in Maryland. Their children were Susan, Elizabeth, Saphronica, Mary, Joseph, Samuel, Christian, John and Jonas. After a few months spent in his parental home, Seth W.' Neill took his bride to the eighty-acre farm, which he had secured in section II of Greensburg township, where he made his home for the balance of his life. It was there the children of the family were born and reared. Beside Joseph Webster Neill, who was the second child of the family in order of birth, there were: John Allison, bom on March i, 1858; Samuel Morton, born on December 28, 1861, and died on September 23 of the following year, while still a small child and while the father of the family was at the front during the Civil War. Seth Edwin, born on January 25, 1864; Saphronica Ann, born on May 28, 1866; Mary Emma, born on December i' 1868, the latter now deceased; Cora Edith, born on March i, 1871, and Jonas Sheldon, an infant, who died at birth, was born on January 16, 1874; William Orlan, born on April 21, 1875, and Oscar Delos, the youngest of the family, born on May 17, 1878. On August II, 1862, when a young man of twenty-six years, and with a wife and three small children, Seth W. Neill so strongly felt the call of his 728 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. country in her time of need, that he laid aside his personal interests and donned a suit of blue as a private in Company I, Ninety-ninth Regiment,, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He entered service under Captain Hawkey and scarcely more than a month after his enlistment, on September 21 followring, he was sent to the United States military hospital at Covington, Kentucky, where he remained for over a month. On October 29 he was ordered home for a rest and entered the service again within a short time. However, he had become so disabled, physically, owing to the illness contracted in the service, that he was found to be unfit for duty and was sent home. He was honorably discharged and later pensioned. He spent the balance of his life on his farm, and there passed away on September 8, 1899. His widow sur- - vived for a number of years, her life on earth ending on November 18, 1914. Both Seth W. Neill and wife were faithful members of the Christian church,, and in the tenets of that faith they reared their family. When a lad Joseph Webster Neill attended the district schools near his home and assisted his father during vacation periods. After leaving school, he farmed by renting fields, for a few years before marriage. On December 31, 1884, he was united in marriage with Mary E. Timmons, a native of thiS' county and a daughter of Joshua and Catherine Timmons. Joseph Neill and his bride took up their residence in section 11, of Greensburg township, on a farm adjoining that formerly occupied by his father, where they have con- tinued to since make their home. This farm consists of one hundred and fifty-five acres and is in every respect well kept. The residence and all build- ings are in a good state of repair, and everything about the place is neat and orderly, bespeaking the well-regulated mind and business ability, of its owner. Joshua Timmons, father of Joseph Neill's wife, was born in Piqua county, this state, and his wife was a native of Pennsylvania. They met and were married in this county and after marriage settled on a farm in Perry township. To them was born a family of twelve children, as follow : Alice, John, Daniel, Samuel, Peter, Mary, Helena, Lucy, Louisa, Laura, Emma and Nancy. Joseph Webster and Mary E. (Timmons) Neill are the parents of four children, Louis Alfred, born on December 8, 1885; Lottie Alice, born on March 23, 1889; Robert Homer, born on June 16, 1891, and Ora Joseph, bom on January 18, 1894. Lottie Alice is the wife of Leonard McEldery, a farmer of Pleasant township, this county, and is the mother of one child, Margaret Marie; Robert Homer attended the township schools when a boy, and later, securing a higher education, taught school for three terms, when he took a course in the business college at Ottawa and later studied at the agricultural college at Ada; Ora Joseph, the youngest of the family, remains PUTNAM COUNTY. OHIO. 72Q. with the father, assisting him in the work of the home place; Louis Alfred, the eldest of the family, was united in marriage, on March 20, 19 12, to MisI Bessie Wirth, a daughter of George and Mary Ann Wirth, both natives of this county. George Wirth is a son of Samuel and Mary Magdalena Wirth, both of whom were natives of Germany, and upon emigrating to this coun- try, came directly to this county, where they passed the remainder of their lives. George Wirth received his education in the public schools of this county and worked with his father on the home farm. On December 13, 1885, he was united in marriage to Mary Ann Guyton, and to their union, were born six children, as follows: Matilda, Mary, deceased; Frank, Charles, Bessie, wife of Louis Alfred Neill, and Alta. After marriage, George Wirth and wife moved to the farm of one hundred and sixty acres where they lived for many years and where his widow still resides. He is now deceased. To Louis Alfred Neill and wife have been bom two children, Thelma, born on December 30, 191 1, and Catherine Jane, born on January 2.7, 1913. The Neill family are well known through this section and both father and sons are regarded as men of industry and integrity and among the most substantial citizens of the community. FRANK ERHART. One of the popular and well-known citizens of Putnam county Ohio is Frank Erhart, whose reputation for unfailing cheerfulness and optimism' smcere friendlmess and whole-souled generosity is founded on fact and most justly deserved. Mr. Erhart won many friends when twice candidate for sheriff on the Democratic ticket, but unfortunately failed of election He has at different times served as county assessor, justice of the peace and township ditch commissioner, and for twelve years was a member of the school board. He is engaged in farming in Greensburg township, where the family is well known. « "^S"^. ^'^^'* ^^^ ^°™ '" °"^^^ township, this county, on March 18, 1866, being a child of Henry and Anna Bernadina (Barlager) Erhart both natives of this county, born of German parentage. Henry Erhart was a son of Barney and Elizabeth Erhart, the other children of the family bemg Andrew, Mary, Elizabeth, Rosa, Anna and John. The parents left their native land of Germany shortly after marriage, coming direct to this, county, where they had friends. They settled on a farm three miles west 73° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of Ottawa, this county, where they hved for the balance of their hves and where their children were born and reared. Anna Bernadina Barlager, mother of Frank Erhart, was the child of Henry and Gertrude Barlager, both born in the German Empire. They emigrated to America early in their married life and located in this county on a farm some two miles west of Glandorf , where all their children were born and reared, and where they passed the remainder of their days. They had five children, namely: Kath- erine, Henry, Elizabeth, Bernadina and Joseph. They were devout members of the Catholic church and in that faith their family was reared. Henry Erhart, father of Frank, passed his boyhood days on his father's farm, attending the district schools whenever possible. He early showed an aptitude for agricultural work and immediately after his marriage on July 5, 1865, he took his bride to the eighty-acre farm, where he toiled and passed the remainder of his life. His death occurred in March, 19J4. His widow still resides on the farm, which she operates. In spite of her advanced years, she is in possession of a mental alertness and physical strength that would do credit to a woman scarce half her age. She is the mother of seven children, Frank, Caroline, William, Mollie, Elizabeth, Mary and Frances. The family are communicants of the Roman Catholic church. When a youth, Frank Erhart secured such education as the district schools of his home locality afforded and assisted his father in the work of the farm home. He was united in marriage on September 20, 1888, to Catherine Edelbrock, daughter of Henry and Theresa Edelbrock, and soon after their marriage the young couple removed for residence to Jackson township, this county. For twenty-six years they remained on the farm, which had been their original home and, in March of 1914, they removed to their present home in Greensburg township. This farm consists of one hundred and tw'enty acres, and Mr. Erhart devotes his time to general farming and the raising of live stock. Henry Edelbrock, father of Airs. Erhart, was a native of Germany, who came to this country when a young man and, for many years, was a well-known farmer of this county. His death occurred in 1906. His wife was Theresa Siebeneck, and she survived her husband several years, her death occurring in 1913. She was a native of this county, born of German parentage, and was the mother of eight children, Frank, William, Mary, Catherine, John, Joseph, Benjamin and Minnie, the entire family being communicants of the Roman Catholic church. To Frank Erhart and wife were born six children, as folloAv: Laura, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 70 j born on July 12, 1889, who is the wife of August Myers of Glandorf, this county, and is the mother of three children; Flora, born on April 26, 1891, is a graduate of Ottawa business college; Edna, born on August 16, 1899, attends the Glandorf high school; Benjamin, born on February 9, 1901, is deceased, as is also Harry, born on November 15, 1903, and Minnie, born on March 8, 1904, is still in the grades. The various members of the family are prominent in the life of their community, making themselves agreeable to both friend and stranger alike. All are communicants of the Roman Catholic church. JOHN B. STEPHENS. One of the conspicuous names on the list of Putnam county agricul- turists is that of John B. Stephens, who operates a splendid farm in Sugar Creek township, and who is a -gentleman of high standing, to whom has not been denied a full measure of success. Long recognized as a factor of im- portance in connection with the farming and stock-raising industries here, he is prominently identified with the material growth and prosperity of this part of the state, his life having been closely interwoven with the history of the county where he has been content to live and follow his vocation. John B. Stephens was born in Union township on January 26, 1868, and is a son of Marion and Margaret (Nonemaker) Stephens. Marion Stephens is a native of the old Buckeye state, having been born in Union county on July 11, 1843, and there spent his boyhood days and received his early education. His parents dying when he was but a child, he was reared by relatives, and during his young manhood was employed at farm labor. At the outbreak of the Civil War Marion Stephens enlisted as a private in the Fifty-fourth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which command was attached to the Army of the Tennessee. Mr, Stephens was a participant in many of the most hotly-contested battles of that great struggle, including many campaigns and the historic march of Sherman to the sea. After the war Mr. Stephens returned to Union county, where, shortlv afterward, he married Margaret Nonemaker, who was born in. Fairfield county about 1845 a daughter of John Nonemaker and wife, both of whom were natives of Ger- many and who settled in Fairfield county, Ohio. Later they moved to Union county, settling near Plain City, and there remained the rest of their lives Their surviving children were seven in number, namely: Jacob, who was killed m the service during the Civil War; Samuel, Catherine, Lucmda 732 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Martha, Margaret and Nancy. Margaret, who married Marion Stephens, died in July, 1875, when her son, the subject of this sketch, was seven years old. To Marion and Margaret (Nonemaker) Stephens there were born three children, Martha, John B. and VVinnif red, the deceased widow of Edward Lippencott. Some time after the death of his first wife Marion Stephens was mar- ried to Elizabeth Best, of Putnam county, the daughter of George and Anna Best. To this union were born six children, three of whom survived them,, Joseph, George and Grover. After his first marriage Marion Stephens re- mained in Union county for some .time and then moved to Putnam county,, where he remained but two years. During this time John B. Stephens was born. The family then moved to Madison county, where the wife and mother died. The father returned to Putnam county in 1879, locating on a farm which he had purchased in Sugar Creek township, in partnership with Jacob Miller, the tract comprising one hundred and sixty acres, located one mile northeast of Vaughnsville. Here he remained until 1905, when he moved to the state of Michigan, but in 1912 returned to Putnam county. He now lives in Kalida. John B. Stephens was about eleven years old when his father returned to Sugar Creek township, where he remained until attaining maturity. His education was received in the common schools of Vaughnsville, and his early years were spent in work on the old home farm. After his marriage in 1893: he lived for a while at his wife's home, and in the following year moved to- the Joseph Garner farm, on which he resided for two years. He then returned to his mother-in-law's home place of eighty acres, and there he has since continued to reside, Mr. Stephens being engaged in the operation and man- agement of the farm. He is a progressive and up-to-date farmer, giving attention to the most advanced ideas relative to agriculture, and has achieved a noteworthy success in this enterprise. John B. Stephens was united in marriage on October 12, 1893, with Olive Vandermark, who was born in Putnam county, March 11, 1872, the daughter of William and Mary Jane (Mayberry) Vandemark. William Vandemark was born in Putnam county on June 22, 1830, and met his death by the hands of a bank robber at Columbus Grove, his death occurring on August 9, 1891. Mary Jane (Mayberry) Vandemark was born in Ross county on December 16, 1833, being the eldest daughter of James and May Mayberry. To William and Mary Vandemark were born the following children: Malinda on April 4, 1856, died on August 4, 1856; James, February 27, 1858, died on January 21, 1894; John M., April 17, 1861, died on May 26, PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 733 T864; Serilda, January 5, 1864, died on June 14, 1864; Charles E., September 13, 1866; Margaret L., July 7, 1869, died in infancy; Luella died in infancy on April 2, 1870; Olive, Mrs. Stephens, March 11, 1872; Lawrence, May i, 1875. Mary Jane Mayberry had been married prior to her union with Mr. Vandemark, the first husband, Aaron Jones, was born on December 20, 1825, their marriage occurring on August 22, 185 1. William Vandemark was one of nine children, Agnes, Jeremiah, Elizabeth, Esther, Nancy Ann, Elvira, William and a twin sister, Mary Jane, and Daniel, all of whom are deceased. To John B. Stephens and wife have been born four children, William, Velma, Lawrence and Ethel. Mr. Stephens is a Democrat, and has taken a commendable interest in local and public affairs, having served efficiently as a member of the town- ship school board. He is affiliated with the Christian church, of which he is a trustee, and of which his wife is also a member. The qualities which Tiave made Mr. Stephens one of the prominent and successful men of Sugar Creek township have also brought him the esteem of his fellow-citizens, for his career has been one of well-directed energy, strong determination and .honorable methods. FRANCIS M. RIMER. Not long ago there was a period from the middle of November to the first of March when very little work was done on the farm. The business man cannot afford a four or five months' vacation nor can the farmer afford it. The business man at the head of any enterprise hardly dares to quit work for two weeks. ^ Not that the farmer does not work hard enough, but his work is poorly planned if he has nothing that he can do during a third of each year. It were far better for the farmer to quit work at noon on Sat- urday every week in the year than to work long hours during the spring and summer season and cease work altogether during the winter months. The farmer who loves his work and is bent'on attacking its problems' systematically will not care to pass long periods in absolute idleness. He will find something possible to do no matter how bad the weather may be, and he will work where he may be comfortable. He will have carefully planned his work for the next season, will have attended carefully to the feeding of his stock, the long evenings he will have spent reading the literature of the farm and in studying farm problems. This is the typical life of the present-day progressive farmer, and one of the men who falls in this class is Francis M. Rimer, of Sugar Creek township. Mr. Rimer is a man of more than average intelligence. 734 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. He is a man who has kept abreast of the times with the application of the latest methods, and has kept informed with regard to the latest developments in agriculture, which is evidenced by the fact that he employs all of the latest devices in his farm work. Francis M. Rimer was born on July 19, 1857, in Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Rhodes) Rimer. Jacob Rimer was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, on January 29, 1815. He was the son of Daniel and Catherine (Vandemark) Rimer. Daniel Rimer was a native of Pennsylvania and was born near Rimersburg. He was of German parentage and came to Fairfield county, Ohio, from Penn- sylvania, about 1812. Here he remained until 1832, when his son Jacob, the father of Francis M., was seventeen years of age. In this year he located in Union township, Putnam county, where he entered land from the govern- ment south of Kalida. Here he spent the remainder of his active life and spent his declining years with his son, Jacob, in Sugar Creek township, where he died on July 5, 1857. His wife surviving him about seventeen years, died in 1874. Jacob Rimer was born in FairfieM county, Ohio, where he spent his childhood and received his early education. When sixteen years of age, in 183 1, he came to Putnam county, Ohio, one year ahead of his parents. After they settled in Union township he remained with them until his marriage on March i, 1838, at which time he was twenty-three years of age, and when he settled on a farm of eighty acres in section 8 of Sugar Creek township. This land was covered with virgin timber and partly with water. Jacob Rimer built a one-roomed log cabin and a barn and proceeded to clear his land, in which latter undertaking he nearly succeeded during his lifetime. A few years later he built a frame house adjoining the log cabin. This house was of five rooms and quite pretentious for those times. In later years he built a more commodious residence, which is still in use today. Jacob Rimer's wife, Elizabeth Rhodes, was born in Franklin county, Ohio, on July 21, 1816. She was the daughter of Peter and Catherine (Hoffman) Rhodes, and came to Putnam county with her parents when sixteen years of age, in 1831, who settled on the west bank of Hog creek, just below Rimer. Elizabeth here grew to womanhood and was married to Jacob Rimer on March i, 1838, at the age of twenty-two. Jacob Rimer's parents had five children, three sons and two daughters, Eliza, Jacob, Jeremiah, Daniel and Parmelia, all of whom are deceased. Peter and Catherine Rhodes had seven children, two dauohters and five sons. Jacob and Elizabeth Rimer had nine children, seven sons and two daughters, Joseph, born on December 18, 1838, and died on December 21 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. y-ic of the same year; George W., February 5, 1840, and was killed in the Civil War on December 11, 1863; Daniel P., January 8, 1842; Elizabeth, October 23. 1843; James W., March 26, 1846, and died on December 25, 1907; Mary L., May 30, 1848; Leazure, August 21, 1851; Lewis H., September 7, 1853; Francis M., July 19, 1857. Daniel P. was also a soldier in the Civil War. Jacob Rimer spent a most active and useful life and died on the old homestead, which was largely the work of his hands, in December, 1901. He was a Democrat and an active member of the Baptist church. He was township trustee for several terms, was well known and highly respected and was a man of high ideals and sterling integrity. His wife preceded him to the grave, having departed this life on December 22, 1893. Francis M. Rimer was born on the old homestead of his father and here spent his childhood. He attended the local district school, known as Woods College. Here he grew to manhood and helped his father on the old home farm until he was twenty- eight years of age, when he married. Francis Rimer was married on December 10, 1885, to Margaret Eliza- beth Oard, who was born in Sugar Creek township, Allen county, on Jan- uary 28, 1866. She was the daughter of Noah and Margaret (Oglevie) Oard. Both of them died wherT Mrs. Rimer was only fourteen years of age. Noah Oard was born in Allen county in 1824 and was the son of Peter and Anna Oard, the former a native of Pennsylvania. Margaret Oglevie was the daughter of parents who came from Virginia. Her father was a native of Scotland and came to Virginia when nine years of age, settling in Putnam county in pioneer times two miles north of Vaughnsville. To Noah and Margaret Oard, fifteen children were born, fourteen of whom grew to matur- ity. They were: James Henry, who died in 1912; Mary Jane, deceased Thomas Clinton; David R. and Peter L., twins; Anna C, deceased; John A. Amanda O.; Noah O. ; Margaret E., the wife of Mr. Rimer; Cynthia A., Viola, who died at the age of five years; Eva; Lottie and an infant who died at birth. After his marriage Francis Rimer settled on a part of his father's farm of sixty-one acres, where he built a twelve-room residence and a large barn and other buildings. To his original farm Mr. Rimer has added twelve acres, making seventy-three acres in all. He has always done general farming. Francis M. and Margaret E. (Oard) Rimer have had seven children: Lenore, born on January 20, 1889; Ralph, February 25, 1891 ; Helen, May 5, 1894; Russell, September 26, 1897; Louis Richard, July 24', 1899;' Mar- garet, September 24, 1905, and Elizabeth, October 31, 1907. Lenore, who was graduated from the Vaughnsville high school, attended the Lebanon 736 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Normal School, and is now teaching in Oregon. Ralph, who is a graduate of the Vaughnsville high school and the Lima Business College, is also teaching in Oregon. Helen, also a graduate of the Vaughnsville high school, took the normal course at Ohio Northern University and a special normal course at Ottawa. Russell is also a graduate of the Vaughnsville high school. Louis Richard is now a student in the Vaughnsville high school. Francis Rimer attends the Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mrs. Rimer is a member. Mr. Rimer is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge, No. 711, at Vaughnsville. He is a Democrat, having served as school director, township supervisor and township trustee. Francis M. Rimer is well known in Putnam county and highly respected as an up-to-date, progressive and intelligent farm.er. HERMAN HOLTKAMP. There are few public officials, of the federal class, in Putnam county who are better known or more deservedly popular in the community in which they reside than the genial postmaster at Kalida, to a brief sketch of whose interesting career the biographer, with pleasure, calls the attention of the reader at this point. Though of foreign birth and a resident of this county a matter of less than three decades. Postmaster Holtkamp has so thoroughly absorbed the spirit of American institutions and has so com- pletely familiarized himself with American manners and customs that there is no more thorough American than he, nor none more sincerely devoted to the welfare of his adopted country. One of the best known merchants in the county, he for years having been engaged in the hardware business at Kalida, Mr. Holtkamp also has the interests of the county at large very deeply at heart, and none is more prompt in furthering any movement hav- ing the commonwealth's best development in view than is he. Not only that, but his fine musical education and taste make him popular in those circles which contribute in largest measure to the cultural development of the communal life, and he, therefore, may properly be looked upon as one of the most valuable citizens of this county. No review of the history of this section would be complete without proper mention of his services and activities since coming to this county, and it is with pleasure that the biog- rapher presents here a brief and modest sketch of the career of this excel- lent citizen. Herman Holtkamp was born in the Province of Westphalia, Germany. HKItMAX HOLTKAMI' PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. -j-)^j December 4, 1856, the only son of Everhard and Gertrude (Asholt) Holt- kamp, farming- people, whose lives were spent on their farm near the town of Vorhelm, in Westphalia, and to whom also were born two daughters, Christine and Anna, the former of whom is dead and the latter of whom still lives in Germany, the parents both being dead. Herman Holtkamp received his early education under the admirable scholastic system of his native province and early in life was apprenticed to a wood carver, asquiring a most skillful proficiency in this difficult and im- portant trade. For a time after completing his apprenticeship he followed this trade in Germany, and then decided to seek an extension of his fortunes on this side of the Atlantic. With that end in view, he came to America in 1887, landing at New York, from whence he came direct to Putnam county, locating in the town of Kalida, where he has ever since made his home. Upon arriving at Kalida he opened a wagon and wood-wprking shop, which he operated for twenty-two years, becoming in that time one of the best known and most successful artisans of that class in the county. At the end of that time he formed a partnership with James Tennison, the two buymg the hardware store of Fanger & Recker, in Kalida. Later Mr Tennison sold his interest in this store to John W. Fortman, since which time the house has been doing business under the firm style of Holtkamp & Fortman, and has been quite successful, doing a general and quite extensive busmess m hardware, farming implements, etc., also taking contracts for tin work, roofing and the like. In addition to his extensive business interests Mr. Holtkamp is deeply concerned in matters of public improvement and IS regarded as one of the leaders in all movements having to do with liie best development of the interests of his home community. For three vears he served, most acceptably, as township treasurer of Union township' and for a like period of service was clerk of the school board, in which latter capacity his deep interest in educational and cultural matters proved of large value to the community. Herman Holtkamp was united in marriage in 1890 to Mary Siefker the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Tenwalde) Siefker, a prominent fam^ ily m Union township. Mrs. Holtkamp is one of a family of seven chil- dren the others being Henry, John, Elizabeth, Anna, Joseph and Catherine of whom Henry, Elizabeth and Anna are now deceased To the union of Herman and Mary (Siefker) Holtkamp nine children have been born, as follow: Henry (deceased), bom on August .8 89 Edward, born on December 7, 1892; Henry, born on FebrLry 7 738 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Pauline, born on December 18, 1895; Emma (deceased), born on October 4, 1897; Glara, born on August 18, 1900; Louise (deceased), born on May 15, 1902; Irene, born on September 23, 1904, and Alice, born on March 29, 1906. Mr. and Mrs. Holtkamp are members of St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida and are earnestly devoted to the sacred interests of that parish, in the various beneficences of which they are active participants. For twen- ty-seven years Mr. Holtkamp has served as organist and choir director in St. Michael's church, his service in this connection ever having proved ac- ceptable to the parish, in which there is no more popular member than he. In public affairs Mr. Holtkamp always has taken a deep interest and has given to the politics of the county a degree of intelligent attention which has lent much weight to his counsels in the deliberations of the party man- agers. He was appointed postmaster at Kalida in June, 19 14, by the Pres- ident, entering upon the duties of this important office in the next month, and is g'iving the public most excellent service through that office. He has a splendid reputation throughout that part of the county and is very prop- erly regarded as one of the leading men of affairs. JAMES H. TEEGARDIN. The farmer's greatest economic interest is in increased profit. Involved in this interest, which is potent to the farmer's prosperity, is the problem of distribution. The problem of distribution is no other than that of market. If production on the farm is increased, improved market facilities to safe- guard the farmers economic interest in greater profits must eliminate, to some extent, the present waste in distribution. The present and future efforts to avoid this waste must compensate the farmer for raising larger crops, which otherwise would mean only that he would receive the same number of dollars for a greater number of bushels. The two most important economic problems of agriculture are greater production and improved market facilities. Experience seems to prove that co-operation is the keynote to a better system of distribution between producer and consumer and, in brief, to the improvement of market facilities. James H. Teegardin, one of the successful and well-known farmers of Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, Ohio, is a man who has made a close study of every phase of modern farming. No man has done more than he to emphasize the needs of better PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 7^0 markets in connection with the present movement to improve the productions of farm products. James H. Teegardin was born on March 19, 1866, in Sugar Creek town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Joseph and Sarah (Mayberry) Teegardin. Joseph Teegardin was born in Sugar Creek township, Allen county, Ohio, on March 19, 1840, and died in Pleasant township, Putnam county, on March 10, 1892. He was the son of Henry and Rachel (Decker) Teegardin. Henry Teegardin was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, three miles from Groveport, and came to Sugar Creek township, Allen county, in 1830. He was- the son of William Teegardin, who was a native of Pennsylvania and who settled in Fairfield county, where he spent the remainder of his life on the original Teegardin homestead. He died at the age of about eighty-two years. It was William Teegardin who entered the land in Sugar Creek township, Allen county, from the government, which has been turned over to several successive generations of his descendants. As in the past, this property was given to his sons, though he himself had never moved to Allen county, always remaining in Fairfield county. He had ten children, four daughters and six sons, one of whom was Henry, the grandfather of James H. Henry Teegardin settled on one of the farms of one hundred and sixty acres which was entered by his father, where he lived and died. He passed through all of the pioneer experiences of the men of his generation, was a very industrious farmer and, for his time, was 'considered very prosperous. He died at about the age of fifty years of pneumonia. Henry and Rachel Teegardin had nine children, Mar_v, who was familiarly known as "Polly" ; Elizabeth, Joseph, the father of James H. ; Peter, John, William, Daniel and a son and a daughter, who died in childhood. Rachel Teegardin survived her husband many years and was married again to James Mayberry. She died at the advanced age of eighty-two years, in February, 1899. Joseph Tee- gardin, who was the eldest son, took charge of the old homestead in Allen county after his father's death._ It was on this old place that he spent his childhood and youth at the tim'e he attended the typical log cabin school At the age of twenty-three, on May 23, 1863, he was married to Sarah Elizabeth Mayberry, who was born in Pleasant township, Putnam county, on May 13 1843, and who was the daughter of James and Mary (Jamison) Mayberry' It was James Mayberry who, after his first wife's death, married Rachel Teegardin. Joseph and Sarah Teegardin, the parents of James H Teegar- dm, were, therefore, step brother and sjster, as well as husband and wife After Joseph Teegardin's marriage he settled in the southeast corner of Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, on eighty acres of land belonging to 740 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. his father, which farm he purchased after the latter's death from the re- mainder of the heirs. In about nine years, or in 1870, he sold this farm and moved to Columbus Grove, where he lived for nine years. He then moved to a small farm two and one-half miles north of Columbus Grove, where he lived the remainder of his life, dying on March 10, 1892. Although not a member of any church, he died in the Christian faith. He was ill about seven years prior to his death. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and was a Democrat. Joseph and Sarah (Mayberry) Tee- gardin had five children, Emma, James H., the subject of this sketch ; William A., Thomas M. and Alice, who died in infancy. Mrs. Joseph Teegardin still lives and resides with her grandchild, Mrs. May Darbyshire, of Lima, Ohio. James H. Teegardin spent his early childhood on his father's farm in Sugar Creek township. His boyhood was spent in Columbus Grove and later on the farm north of Columbus Grove. Here he attended the public schools and after finishing school helped his father on the farm. At the age of sixteen he started in life for himself and began working for neighboring farmers, which he continued to do until he became twenty years of age, when he married. James H. Teegardin was married on April 14, 1886, to Etta Sherman, who was born in Putnam county in September, 1870, and who is the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Utter) Sherman. To this union were born two children, Bessie, who died al; the age of six weeks, and Nellie, who died at the age of four. Mrs. Etta Teegardin died in March, 1897, and after her death Mr. Teegardin was married a second time, on April 14, 1898, to Mrs. Jane (Myers) Vandemark, the widow of James M. Vandemark. Mrs. Tee- gardin had five children by her first marriage, Clarence, Emmet, Clara, Vena, who died at the age of two years, and Alva J. All four of these children are living and are married. Mrs. Teegardin is the daughter of James and Deborah (McDale) Myers, the former of whom was born in Pleasant town- ship, Putnam county, on September 4, 1830, and died in Union township in February, 1912, at the age of eighty-two years. His wife, Deborah McDale, was born on June 29, 1835, in Pleasant township and is still living. After Mr. Teegardin's first marriage he rented a farm in Pleasant town- ship for two years. During the following ten years he was engaged in factory work at Columbus Grove and Carey, Ohio. Later and after his second mar- riage he took up his residence on the James Vandemark farm, where he has resided ever since. James H. and Jane (Myers) Teegardin have had two children, Lewis PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. y.^ VV., born on May 2, 1899, and Joseph C, May 30, 1903. After Mr. Tee- gardin's second marriage he negotiated with the heirs of the James Vande- mark estate and purchased their interest in the farm, which he now owns. His farm consists of one hundred and forty-six acres and is located two and one-half miles northwest of Vaughnsville. His land is in a fine state of cul- tivation, is well improved and no better farm can be found anywhere. Mr. Teegardin had the misfortune, on November 23, 1914, to lose a fine barn that had just been erected and which was destroyed by fire. He has since duplicated this structure with a barn which is modern to the smallest detail. He has a comfortable residence and neatly and well-kept outbuildings. Mr. Teegardin has always done general farming and has paid considerable atten- tion to the Ohio Improved Chester hogs and keeps only thoroughbreds. He also raises Shorthorn cattle for dairy and beef purposes. James H. Teegardin and wife are members of the Ottawa River Chris- tian church, while Mr. Teegardin is a member of Vaughnsville Lodge No 711, Knights of Pythias. He has passed all of the chairs in his local lodge except one. Mr. Teegardin is a Democrat, although he has never been par- ticularly active. He is a progressive farmer of Sugar Creek township, clean- cut and favorably known. CHARLES R. SMITH. The farmers' interest" in road-building is universally recognized Good roads furnish easy access to market and reduce the wear of his vehicles and machinery. They are civilizing agents that open up to him the outside world even more than railroads or trolley lines. Moreover, the farmer is interested' not so much m gigantic expenditures for road-building, which amount to six hundred million dollars each year, but in getting the worth of his monev invested m this enterprise. He has a right to know whether the forty-four mi hon dollars, expended in state aid of road-building in 1914, was economi- cally used He ought to know enough about making roads to find the answer for himself. One of the prominent farmers of Sugar Creek township Put- nam county Ohio, who is extremely interested in road-building and in markets, is Charies R. Smith. ^ He i^^Ilf '' ^'/p™'^ '^''^°™ °" J""' "^' ^^^3, in Allen county, Ohio. He IS the son ofBenjamm O. and Margaret A. (Hines) Smith. Benjamin Smith was born in Culpeper county, Virginia, in October, 1832, and was the 742 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. son of James and Mary (Stover) Smith. James Smith was born in Cul- pepper county, Virginia, in 1810, and died in 1893. He was a farmer in Virginia, where he grew to manhood and was married. He came to Ohio, overland, in a covered wagon, arriving in Vaughnsville on January i, 1837. He then entered land from the government in section 22, about two miles northeast of Vaughnsville. He remained in Vaughnsville until he had built a cabin and then moved to his new-found home. He proceeded to clear his land arid succeeded in getting about fifty acres in cultivation. He spent the remainder of his life on the old homestead, where his wife died in April, 1888, he surviving her by five years. They had eleven children, six sons and five daughters, of whom Charles R. Smith's father, Benjamin O. Smith, was next to the eldest. Benjamin O. Smith was only five years of age when his parents came to Putnam county, where he grew to manhood. He attended the district schools and helped his father to clear the land and farm the home place. At twenty-seven years of age he was married to Margaret A. Hines, who was born in Culpepper county, Virginia, in 1836, and who was the daughter of Peter and Fanny (Stover) Hines, who in turn were both natives of Virginia and immigrated to Randolph county, Missouri, when their daugh- ter, Margaret, was a child. Here her parents settled on a farm and remained the balance of their lives. Margaret Hines was one of seven children, five sons and two daughters. Benjamin O. Smith went to Missouri, where he met and married Mar- garet Hines. After their marriage, they returned to Ohio and settled just northwest of his father's homestead, where they remained for a short time. Subsequently, they removed to a farm in the extreme northern part of Allen county, two miles west of Columbus Grove. It was here that Charles R. Smith was born. Benjamin O. Smith moved again, shoJ-tly afterward, to a farm northeast of Gomer in Allen county, where he remained for a few years. Later, he moved to a farm in Allen county, about one and one-half miles west of Charles R. Smith's birthplace. He bought this farm, but two years later, sold out on account of his wife's health, and moved to Missouri, in the fall of 1 87 1. Here she died, in January, 1872. They had four children, three sons and one daughter, Cornelius F., Charles R., the subject of this sketch; Paschal M. and Mary F., deceased, who married George W. Foltz, and has one child living, Donald. Benjamin O. Smith returned to Ohio, with his family, immediately after the death of his wife, to the old home- stead, where Benjamin O. was again married, in 1876, to Mrs. Rebecca (Stover) Pearson. To this union were born three children, Clayton, who died in childhood ; Carl, who died in infancy, and Nellie, who died about the PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 743 age of seventeen. Benjamin O. Smith died on the old home place on De- cember 1 6, 1888. At one time he was a member of the Christian church. He was a Democrat in politics. Charles R. Smith was eight years old when his father returned from Missouri and has continued to live on the home place of his father and grandfather since that time. He attended the Smith district school and, after finishing the common school, helped his father on the farm until he became of age, after which time he went to Randolph county, Missouri. There he ■remained for one and one-half years. At the end of this period, he returned to his home to take charge of the farm, after his father's death in 1888. Charles R. Smith continued to farm here until 1890, when he again went to Missouri and was married to Susie W. Furnish, who was born in California, in January, 1861. She was the daughter of Samuel and Eliza (Riggs) Furnish. After his marriage, Mr. Smith again returned to Ohio, and has resided here ever since. Charles R. and Susie W. (Furnish) Smith have had three children. Earl F., who was born on December lo,' 1891 ; Erma C, June 12, 1893, and who is the wife of William J. Jones, and Pau'l Ray- mond, May 21, 1895. Both boys are students of Defiance College. Mrs. Smith died on June 19, 1899. About three years after the death of Mrs. Susie Smith, Mr. Smith was again married on January i, 1902, to Mrs. Lillie V. (Jenkins) Gordon, who was born in Union county, Ohio, September 2, 1867. She is the daughter of William and Lucinda (Holycross) Jenkins! The former was born in Muskingham county, Virginia, December 25, 1840 and died in Paulding county, Ohio, September 23, 1905. Lucinda Holycross was born on August 21, 1836, and died on July 31, 1900, at Grover Hill Pauldmg county, Ohio. William and Lucinda Jenkins had eleven children' six daughters and five sons, Abraham M., Lydia A., William Lawrence' Tabitha J., John A., Lillie B., the wife of Mr. Smith; Eli Clemens Earl P ' Mattie B., Nellie W. and Cassie Maude, all of whom are living, except Eli C. To Charles R. and Lillie V. (Jenkins) Smith have been bom two chil- dren, one daughter, who died at birth, and Russell Dale, on June 3, 1905 Charles R. Smith has always done general farming and has been suc- cessful. He, with his wife, are members of the Christian church. Mr Smith has been clerk treasurer and trustee of the church. Mr. Smith is a member of Vaughnsville Lodge No. 711, Knights of Pythias. He is a Democrat and has served as a member of the school board. He was a member at the time the new school house was built at Vaughnsville. Charles R. Smith is well and favorably known in Sugar Creek township and well merits the esteem and confidence m which he is held by his neighbors and fellow citizens. 744 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. FRANK J. SMITH. For four generations the Smith family, one of the best known of the many famiHes of German origin in Putnam county, has been counted as a factor of the development of that section of the county in which their in- fluence has been most largely felt. In all that time the influence for good ex- erted by this family, has been steadfast and sure, and there can be no doubt that it has been potent in aiding the advancement of the cause of good local government wherever it has been felt. In thus making its impress upon the life of the community this family is entitled to mention in any work that attempts to deal with the history of this county, and the attention of the reader is called to this brief biography of the gentleman, a prosperous repre- sentative of the family here referred to, one of the most progressive farmers of Union township. Frank J. Smith was born on a farm in section 34, in Union township,. Putnam county, Ohio, on April 28, 1873, the son of L. Jacob and Florentine (Verhoff ) Smith, the former of whom was a native of Germany, the son of Jacob and Wilhelmina (Harb) Smith, and the latter of whom was a native, of Erie county, Ohio, the daughter of Francis and Anna Maria (Kramer) Verhoff. For further details regarding the genealogy of the Verhoff family the reader's attention is directed to the biographical sketch of Theodore Vern- hoff, presented elsewhere in this volume. Jacob Smith, who was born in Germany, was one of the issue of his father's second marriage. By his father's first marriage there were two chil- dren, Peter and John Jacob, both of whom are now deceased; and by the second marriage there were eight children, all of whom are deceased : Jacob,, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, Joseph, Anthony, Frank, Mary, Christina, and two whose names have been lost to the present generation. All these children were born in Germany and came to America with their parents, the family settling on a farm in Erie county, Ohio, where the par- ents spent the remainder of their days. The Smith home was five miles south of the city of Sandusky, and the various members of the family became prom- inent members of that section. All were members of the Catholic church and were devoted to the affairs of the local parish ; also being diligent in the good works of the community in general. It was there that Jacob Smith grew to manhood, and there he married Wilhelmina Harb, the daughter of Hubert and Cecelia (Anselm) Harb, the latter of whom was born in Ger- many, and upon their marriage came to America, settling in Erie county, Ohio, where they made their home on a farm during the remainder of their PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 745; lives, and where they reared a family of six children : Wilhelmina, Uplonia, Cecelia, Amelia, Louis, Anthony and Hubert. Jacob Smith remained in Erie county for three years after his marriage,, and then came to Putnam county, locating on a farm of forty acres in Union township, to which he later added sixty acres, and on this farm he and his wife reared their family and he spent the remainder of his life. To Jacob, and Wilhelmina (Harb) Smith there were born eight children: L. Jacob, Hubert, Cecelia, Wilhelmina, John, Mary, Theresa and Anthony. These children were brought up in the Catholic faith and were members of the church at Glandorf, as were their parents. Jacob Smith predeceased his wife, and upon his death she married, secondly, William Rampe, a shoe manu- facturer at Glandorf, who, after this marriage, moved to Ottawa, and there the paternal grandmother of Frank J. Smith spent the remainder of her days. L. Jacob Smith, first-born of Jacob and Wilhelmina (Harb) Smith, was. reared on the paternal farm in Union township, this county, and received his education in the schools of Union and Greensburg townships. During the early years of his young manhood he worked on his father's farm, but after his marriage moved to a farm of one hundred acres in section 34, in Union township. He found this tract practically unimproved, and has brought it up to a state of cultivation second to none in that part of the county. As his- farming operations extended, and their success became amply proved, he gradually added to his holdings, until at the time of his retirement from the active work of the farm he was the owner of slightly more than three hun- dred acres of choice farm land. Upon deciding to retire, he divided the greater portion of his lands among his children and bought five acres in the town of Kalida, on which he erected a splendid residence, and there he and his wife are now living in quiet retirement, enjoying the fruits of their early industry. In order that he might not "rust" in his old age, Mr. Smith, at the time of his retirement, bought twenty-three acres near his new home,' to the cultivation of which he gave considerable attention. Though practically re- tired, he is active enough to do a good day's work yet and would reject with scorn any implication that he is "on the shelf." Mr. Smith is an active, intel- ligent old gentleman, highly respected, as is his good wife, both of whom en- joy the esteem of all who know them. In his more active days, Mr. Smith gave much attention to the public affairs of his neighborhood and had served the community very acceptably in the capacity of township trustee. He and his wife are members of the Catholic church, in which faith they reared their children, and he is a member of St. Joseph's Benevolent Society at Kalida. On June 10, 1872, L. Jacob Smith was united in marriage with Floren- 746 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. tine Verhoff, a member of one of the county's old families, and to this union there were born seven children, as follow : Frank J., with whom this sketch particularly treats; Hubert, born on January 26, 1875; Wilhelmina, born on April 5, 1877; J- August, born on May 13, 1882; Anthony, born on April 17, 1885; Harry, born on June 19, 1888, and died on September i, 1892, and William. Frank J. Smith, first born of the above union, received his early edu- cation at St. Michael's parochial school, assisting his father on the farm during the vacation periods. During the years of his young manhood he "worked out" for three years and on June 10, 1903, was united in marriage with Helena Kahle, the daughter of Frank and Bernardina (Brinkman) Kahle, members of an old family in this county, whose genealogy is given special mention in the biographical sketch which appears elsewhere in this volume under the name of Frank Kahle, the father of Mrs. Smith. After his marriage, Frank J. Smith moved onto the farm on which he now resides and which he bought from his father a couple of months previous to his marriage. This farm originally consisted of one hundred acres, which Air. Smith enlarged in 191 1 by the purchase of forty acres in Greensburg township, which he uses for pasture. Since taking over this farm, he has greatly improved the same and now has one of the best and most completely appointed farms in that part of the county. In addition to general farming, Mr. Smith engages quite extensively in the raising of cattle, his herd of full- blooded Herefords providing him with considerable profit. To Frank J. and Helena (Kahle) Smith there have been born six chil- dren, as follow: Ignatius Albert Jacob, born on May 8, 1904; Franz 0th- mar Heironomous, born on December i , 1906; Hubert Norbert Oscar, born on May 15, 1908; Franz William Harold, born on January 10, 1910; Marie Francesca Clara, bom on November 13, 191 1, and Maria Anna Wilhelmina, born on July i, 1913. Frank T. Smith and wife are devoted members of St. Michael's Catho- lic church at Kalida and are earnest workers in all the beneficences of that parish. Mr. Smith is a member of St. Joseph's Benevolent Society and is likewise interested in all the good works of his community, he and Mrs. Smith being active in the various local movements designed to elevate the common welfare. He is one of the trustees of the Kalida Mutual Telephone Company and finds time, in connection with the muhifarious duties of his iarm to give proper attention to the public affairs of the township, in the good government of which he is deeply interested. The Smith family are known far and near for their amiability and hospitality and are quite popu- lar among all classes throughout that section of the county. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 747 MOSTON WOOD. To a great extent the prosperity of the agricuUural sections of our country is due to the honest industry, the steady persistence, the unswerving perseverance and the wise economy which commonly characterize the farming element of the Buckeye state. Among this class may he mentioned Moston Wood, who, by reason of years of indefatigable labor and honest effort, has not only acc[uired a well-merited material prosperity, but has also richly earned the highest esteem of all with whom he has been associated. Moston Wood was born near West Cairo, Allen county, Ohio, on Sep- tember 21, 1869, and is descended from sterling English ancestry. His parents were Sanford B. and Susan (Trice) Wood. Sanford Wood was born in Allen county on December 31, 1846, the son of Albert G. Wood, a native of Logan county, Ohio. Albert G. came to Allen county in young manhood with his parents, who had entered land from the government, adjoining what is now the city of Lima. Albert Wood's father, Christopher Wood, the great-grandfather of Moston Wood, was one of the most promi- nent and active men of his community in pioneer days. He helped to lay out the city of Lima, in 1831, became the first judge of Allen county and was one of the commissioners appointed to locate the county seat. He was born in ICentucky in 1769, and was in many respects a remarkable man, serving" on the frontier as an Indian scout and engaging in many of the border cam- paigns, including those of the War of 1812. He settled on Sugar creek in Allen county about 1824, where he continued to reside for many years. Albert Wood, who had come to Allen county when about fifteen or sixteen years of age, was twice married and to his first union were born nine children, of whom Sanford B., the father of Moston, was the youngest. Sanford B. Wood was about six years of age when his mother died and his father after- ward married Mrs. Mary (Snyder) Trice, to which union were born five children, three girls and two boys. Albert Wood bought a farm two miles south of West Cairo and on that place Sanford B. Wood was reared to man- hood. He enlisted as a private in the Sixty-fourth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in 1863, and served throughout the remainder of that struggle, participating in eleven battles and taking part with Sherman in his famous march to the sea. Upon the conclusion of hostilities he returned home and was married to Susan Trice, a native of Hagerstown, Maryland. Her father dying in Maryland, Mrs. Wood was brought by her mother to West Cairo, Ohio, where she grew to womanhood and remained until her marriage to Sanford Wood. After his marriage Mr. Wood operated the old home farm 748 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. for a number of years, and when Moston Wood was eleven years old the family came to Putnam county, locating on eighty acres of land two miles northwest of Vaughnsville, in Sugar Creek township, which is Moston Wood's present residence. To these parents were born eight children, Mollie, the wife of J. E. Deffenbaugh; Moston, the immediate subject of this review; Charlie, who married Tillie Syfert; William T., who married Grace Weaner; Albert E., who married Bertha Griffith; Garfield, who married Bessie Rimer; Walter W., who married Ellie Syfert, and one who died in infancy. Moston Wood spent his early childhood days on the home farm, in Allen county, but his later youth was spent on the farm to which the family moved in Putnam county, where he received his education. He remained with his father on the home farm until attaining his majority, when he was engaged in various employments, until about 1896, when he engaged in the threshing business at which he had been employed somewhat during the previous six years. About this time, he located at Rimer, where he resided the following five years, and then moved to a farm one-half mile east of Rimer, which was his home during the following decade. Upon leaving Rimer, he disposed of his threshing machine and business and gave his entire attention to his farm. On March 7, 1913, Mr. Wood purchased the farm one-half mile west of Rimer, where he now lives and where he is engaged in the operation of fifty acres of land, in addition to his home place. He has consistently followed general farming, raising all the crops common to this locality and, by giving attention to their rotation and the use of other suc- cessful methods of up-to-date farming, he has been prosperous to that degree in keeping with which his efforts were bestowed. He also raises a good grade of live stock and is an advocate of all advanced methods in agriculture. Moston Wood was united in marriage, on February 26, 1896, to Ada Elnora Deffenbaugh, who was born on June 2, 1873, in Nemaha' county, Kansas, the daughter of Albert G. and Mary Elizabeth (Rohrer) Deffen- baugh. Albert G. Deffenbaugh was a native of Putnam county, Ohio, the son of John and Anna (Marshall) Deffenbaugh, who were natives of Penn- sylvania, whence they came to Putnam county in the early days, entering land from the government in Sugar Creek township. Mr. Deffenbaugh was promment in the early political life of the community and for several years efficiently filled the position of county auditor. Mary Elizabeth Rohrer was the daughter of Daniel Rohrer and was born in Champaign county, Ohio To Moston and Ada E. (Deffenbaugh) Wood have been born two children Lewis Raymond, on December 25, 1896, and Glenn Donald, October 8, 1908' Mrs. Wood is one of seven children, the others being: Asa.Eslie, who mar- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 749 ried Clara Harrison; John Ezra, who married Mollie Wood; Louis Samuel, who died at the age of twelve years; Roy C, who married Nettie Bochmer; Lizzie May, who died at the age of sixteen years, and William B., who mar- ried Agnes Laudick. Mr. Wood is a Republican and has rendered efficient service as the trustee of Sugar Creek township, having been elected to that office in Novem- ber, 1913. He attends the Christian church of which his wife is a member and to the support of which he liberally contributes. Mr. Wood is distinc- tively one of the leading citizens of the township in which he lives and, as such, has made his influence felt among his fellow men and earned a name for enterprise, integrity and honor that entitles him to worthy notice in a work of the nature of this volume. JOHN D. WILLIAMS. ^ The two most important economic problems of agriculture from the social point of view and from the point of view of those engaged in the mdustry, are greater production and improved market facilities. John D. Williams, one of the best-known and most prominent farmers of Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, Ohio, is a man who, throughout his active career as a farmer, has emphasized the need of greater protection and better facilities for market. Mr. Williams's remarkable success as a farmer and stockman has resulted from two or three principal conditions. In the first place, Mr. Williams has for a long period of years forcefully applied him- self to the problems of the farm and especially to the problem of larger pro- duction. He is a man who has made a close study of marketing and always has been able to get the best prices for his farm products. Aside from his material success in his life's vocation, Mr. Williams is a man of genteel per- sonality, intelligent, broad minded and liberal in his attitude. John D. Williams was born in Licking county, Ohio, March 10, 1862 He is the son of David L. and Mary (Griffith) Williams. David L was born m North Wales, on June 16, 1832, and died on the old Williams home- stead, south of Vaughnsvnie, Ohio, on February 6, 1908, at the ripe old age of seventy-six years and eight months. David L. Williams was the son of Hugh and Catherine (Lloyd) Williams, both natives of North Wales The former was a quarryman and was killed as a result of a blast in a stone quarry. His death occurred when David, the father of John D., was a small 75° PUTNAItf COUNTY, OHIO. boy. His wife, Catherine, survived him only a few years. They had four children, two sons and two daughters, the eldest of whom was David, the father of John D. David Williams spent his youth in Wales and while a boy he had the misfortune to receive an injury to one of his eyes, which nearly resulted in the loss of that member. He also suffered an injury to his knee that caused him to adopt the trade of a shoemaker. Fortunately, the injured knee be- came well, in later years, and he then gave up his work as a shoemaker. David received a limited education in his native country, but later was able to improve himself and became a well-read man. He was very fond of music, in which he was quite proficient. He was a leader of the choir in the Congregational church at Vaughnsville for some time. This church he helped to organize and he was a charter member. When about twenty-four years of age he came to America, and located first at Rome, New York, in 1856. Here he was employed for about a year on a farm, and then came to Licking county, Ohio, where he located at Newark, where he resumed farming. It was in Licking county that he was married, which marriage took place on February i, i860, when David Williams was twenty-eight years old. He was married to Mary Griffith, who was born in South Wales on September 17, 1835, and who was the daughter of William T. and Charlotte (Jones) Griffith. She came to America with her parents when a very small child, who settled in Licking county where they were farmers, and it was here they spent the remainder of their lives. They had nine children, seven girls and two boys. Mrs. Williams was the third child. After his marriage, David Williams, who owned a small farm in Licking county, continued to farm for about six years, when he moved to Putnam county in the spring of 1866, where he settled in Sugar Creek township, one mile south of Vaughnsville. Here he bought eighty acres of land and, a little later, added forty acres to the original farm, which was well improved for that time. It had a large frame house and barn and had about sixty acres of land cleared. David Williams was a very successful farmer. He came to America a poor boy and, by dint of energy and perseverance, accu- mulated about five hundred and sixty acres of land. He was a Republican in politics, but in late years became a Democrat. He was one of Putnam county's most substantial citizens, a devout Christian, a man of high ideals and of unquestioned integrity. His wife, Mary (Griffith) Williams, was also a member of the Congregational church. She was a devoted wife and loving mother. She died about two years prior to her husband's death, May 19, 1907. They had ten children, seven sons and three daughters, all PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 7c i of whom lived to maturity. These children are as follow: WilHam G., born on November 15, i860; John D., the subject of this sketch, March 10,' 1862; Catherine, October 14, 1863; Charlotte, August 7, 1865, died on July, 1888; Thomas F., January 16, 1867; David L., December 21, 1869; Henry R., November 5, 1871 ; Hugh, November 19, 1873; Mary, January 30, 1876, and Walter E., November 26, 1878. All of these children married except Charlotte, who died at the age of twenty- three. John D. Williams was born in Licking county, Ohio, and came to Put- nam county when about four years of age. Here he spent the remainder of his childhood and youth. He attended the old Michael district school and helped his father on the home place until twenty-five years of age, when he ■was married on December 22, 1887, to Mary Jones, who was born on Septem- ber 16, 1861, in Allen county, Ohio, and who was the daughter of Evan W. and Leah (Jones) Jones, both of whom were natives of North Wales. They had four children who died in infancy, Jennie, Bessie and two others, who died at birth. After his marriage, Mr. Williams located on forty acres, part of a one hundred and sixty-acre tract belonging to his father, two and one-half miles west of Vaughnsville. Later, he purchased this forty acres and forty addi- tional acres from his father. Several years later, he added, at different times, thirty-eight and sixty-nine acres respectively, giving him a total of one hundred and eighty-six acres. Mr. Williams has improved his home place with a commodious, modern residence and a large barn and other buildings, in keeping with the surroundings. The result is that he has one of the finest and best-improved farms in Putnam county. Mr. Williams has always done general farming and has been very successful. Mrs. Mary Williams died on October 16, 1896. Mr. Williams was again married on March 24, 1898, to Anna Jones, who was born in Frank- lin county on September 11, 1862, and who was the daughter of John D; and Mary (Davis) Jones. Both were natives of North Wales and both came to this country in 1858, five years after their marriage which took place on May 3, 1853. The former was a son of David and Catherine (Jones) Jones and was born on April 9, 1828. John D. Jones was a farmer by occupation and one of six children. The father died when he was but six years of age, and his mother when he was twenty-one years of age. At the age of nine,' he started out in life for himself, working for his uncle. His wife, Mary' was born on August 5, 1828, and was the daughter of Richard and Sarah Davis.. Mary was one of a family of nine children, seven of whom lived to maturity. John D. Jones died on January 12, 1876, in Putnam county. 752 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. His wife, Mary, died on October i, 1870, when her daughter Anna, the wife 'Of Mr. WilHams, was eight years of age. When two years of age, Mrs. Anna Williams came with her parents to Sugar Creek township, Putnam ■county, where they located two and one-half miles northeast of Vaughns- ville. Here she spent her childhood and here she attended the old Smith ■district school. She remained at home until her marriage to Mr. Williams, when she took up her present residence. John D. Williams is an ardent Republican. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 711, of Vaughnsville. He is also a member of the Congregational church and a trustee of this church. John D. Will- iams is one of Sugar Creek township's and Putnam county's most substantial and progressive citizens. He is well and favorably known throughout Put- nam county. ELIAS WELTY. It is a well-attested maxim that the greatness of a community or state lies, not in the machinery of government or even in its institutions, but rather in the sterling qualities of the individual citizen in his capacity for high and unselfish effort and his devotion to the public welfare. In these particulars he whose name appears at the head of this review has conferred a dignity upon his locality. As an elemental part of the history, it is fitting to record a resume of his career, with the object of noting his connections -with the advancement of one of the most flourishing and progressive sections -of the commonwealth. No man in Putnam county stands higher in the ■esteem of his fellow citizens than Elias Welty, and very few men are better known than he. Very few have contributed as much as he to the industrial prestige of this county. As treasurer and general manager of Putnam county's largest individual industry, Mr. Welty has been connected with ^very feature of Putnam county's growth and prosperity during the last two •decades. Elias Welty was born on September 6, 1874, on the old Welty home- stead, two and one-half miles east of Pandora, Riley township, Putnam •county, Ohio. He is the son of John U. and Catherine (Thut) Welty, whose family history is contained in the sketch of Mr. Welty's brother, Aldine J., recorded elsewhere in this volume. Elias Welty attended the Old Mulberry district school when a boy, and -supplemented his education received there by a course in a school of corre- ispondence, becoming an expert in drafting and outlining patterns. He re- ELTAS \V];LTY. PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. j.^ niained on the old home place and helped his father until he had reached his majority. At this time he took up the carpenter trade and followed it for one year. He then took a position as an engineer in the planing mill of Peter P. Welty, at Pandora, and retained this position for two years In 1897, Mr. Welty joined with P. A. and John M. Amstutz in the organization and erection of a mill at Pandora. The concern was known as the Pandora Woolen WAX. Mr. Welty continued in this business for two years, and then sold out. A new concern, known as the Pandora Manufacturing Com- pany, took over the assets of the old company and started an overall factory At this time, Mr. Welty took a minor position with the new company as well as a financial interest in it. He was an operator of a button machine and held this position for six months, when he took up folding, along with other work, in the meantime. At the expiration of six months, he was en- gaged in spraying goods and as a helper in the cutting department. Follow- ing this, he devoted all his time to cutting with an electric cutter. It was at this particular time that he took up his correspondence schools work in draft- ing patterns and in making new designs. He was in full charge of the cut- ting department for some time,— approximately five vears. By July 1909 he had become so proficient in every detail pertaining to the management and manufacturing department of this company that the board of directors unanimously elected him treasurer and manager of the company, which was a distinct compliment and a tribute to his untiring efforts and ability in be- half of the company's success. From time to time, Mr. Welty has increased his financial holdings in the company, until he is now the largest stockholder. His efforts as treasurer and manager of the company have met with marked success, and to his ability IS due, very largely, the credit for the splendid standing of this firm The original business has grown to such an extent that, in igio the company took over the plant of the New Ideal Overall Company at Celina Ohio ■ and m the spring of 1913, the company opened an exclusive shirt' factory at Zanesville, Ohio. Since which time, under the able management of Mr Welty, the three plants, operated as one, have more than doubled their busi ness. Ehas Welty was married on October 14, 1897, at the age of twentv- ^xi?' !\ ^''''^'* '^"''^"^'' '^' ''^"^^^^^ °f Abraham and Catherine (Hilty) Amstutz. Mrs. Welty was born, August 26, 1873 Her family history ,s to be found in the sketch of P. A. Amstutz, and of Isaac Hiltv found elsewhere in this volume. She was born in Riley township, Putnam 48 754 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO, county, Ohio, and attended the common schools. She resided with her par- ents on the Amstutz homestead until the time of her marriage. To Elias and Elizabeth (Amstutz) Welty six children have been born, all of whom are living and at home. They are as follow : Orrin Stanley, Catherine Leona, Dorothy Elizabeth, Elmer Elias, Ruth Marie and Ledihlia Opal. Elias Welty is a Democrat, and while he has never. taken an active interest in political affairs, he is a man whose judgment is respected and whose counsel is sought. He is a member of the Grace Mennonite church and active in the affairs of this denomination. Mrs. Welty is also a mem- ber. In every respect, Elias Welty is a self-made, successful business man. In spite of obstacles, he has forged his way to the front, and has reached an enviable position as a head of Putnam county's largest industry. He is a business man of recognized ability and integrity, and a distinct asset to the community where he has spent practically all his life, and where he is so well known. JOHN E. THOMAS. Success is achieved only by the exercise of certain and distinct cjualities of nature and it cannot be achieved without effort. Those to whom great epochal changes have been made in the political and industrial world, began early in life to prepare themselves for their peculiar duties and responsibilities. It was only by the most persevering and continuous endeavor that they suc- ceeded in rising superior to the obstacles in their ways and reaching the goal of their ambition. Such lives are an inspiration to others who are less cour- ageous and more prone to give up the fight before their ideal is reached or definite success attained. Tn the life history of John E. Thomas, there is positive evidence of those peculiar characteristics which make for achieve- ment and persistency coupled with fortitude in cordial and genial tempera- ment. As a consecjuence of exercising these qualities, Mr. Thomas is today one of the leading farmers and most respected citizens of Sugar Creek town- ship, Putnam county, Ohio. John E. Thomas was born in Sugar Creek township, Allen county, Ohio, March 23, 1859. He is the son of Evan and Jane (Evans) Thomas. Evan Thomas was born in South Wales in 1827, and was the son of John Thomas and wife, who were natives of Wales. John Thomas came to America when Evan was twelve years old, in 1839. He came first to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and here he remained for PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. yc^c a short time, subsequently, coming to Sugar Creek township, Allen county, where he settled two miles east of Gomer. Here he established a home in the virgin forest, building quite a pretentious hewed log house with two large rooms and a center hall on the ground floor. He then proceeded to clear his land, and it was here that he remained until his death. John Thomas and wife had fourteen children, all boys, all of whom grew to ma- turity, rearing large families themselves. Evan Thomas, the father of John E., was one of the fourteen boys. He was twelve years of age when he came to America. He remained in Pittsburgh for a few years and here learned the carpenter trade in which he became very proficient. He was married in Pittsburgh to Jane Evans, who was a native of ^^'ales and who came as a girl with her parents to America. They settled on a farm in Cambria county and remained there for the bal- ance of their lives. Jane Evans was one of six children, four sons and two daughters. After Evan Thomas's marriage, he moved to Allen county, locat- ing in Sugar Creek township, three miles east of Gomer. Here he bought eighty acres which was heavily timbered. He first built a two-roomed log cabin with a shed lean-to and this served for a good many years. Later, he built a very substantial house of six or seven rooms, which a few years later was added to until it contained ten rooms, which house was built en- tirely of native timber. It had a center hall and a full basement. It is a noteworthy fact that John E. Thomas's father was a skilled carpenter and made all the material from the rough lumber. His house was built largely of black and white walnut, the doors, windows and other parts being worked out by hand. So well was it constructed that it is still in an excellent state of preservation and is still occupied as a residence. Evan Thomas, the father of John E., was a very industrious man. He managed to clear practically all of his farm during his residence here and, in addition, followed his trade as, a carpenter in the nearby towns and counties. He finally retired and moved to Gomer, at which time he owned one hundred and twenty-five acres of well-improved land. He was an active member of the Congregational church at Gomer, of which he was a deacon. He was a Republican in politics. Evan Thomas was a man of strong will power and high ideals, and of unquestioned integrity. His wife, Jane Evans, who lived a most useful and consistent life, a member of the Congregational church, a devoted and loving mother, died in the spring of 191 1. Her husband had preceded her by two years, having died in April, 1909. They were the par- ents of ten children, seven daughters and three sons, two sons and two daugh- ters dying in infancy. Those surviving were Elizabeth, the wife of David 75^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Price, of Gomer, Allen county; Mary, the wife of Robert Jones, of Lima, Ohio; Anna, deceased, the wife of Thomas James, of Stella, Nebraska; John E., the subject of this sketch; Margaret, the wife of William Humphries, of Van Wert, Ohio; and Katie, who died unmarried at Gomer in 1892. John E. Thomas was born on his father's old homestead farm, three miles east of Gomer, in Sugar Creek township, Allen county. Here he spent his childhood and youth. He attended the old Leipsic district school after which he attended school at the Ohio Northwestern University, at Ada, for two terms. After finishing school, Mr. Thomas continued to help his father on the old home farm. Here he remained until his marriage at the age of twenty-five. John E. Thomas was married on February 24, 1887, to Lovetta M. Weaver, who was born in German township, Allen county, near Lima, Octo- ber 13, 1862, and who was the daughter of John and Sallie (Bowers) Weaver. John Weaver was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, in November, 1812, and was the son of Peter Weaver and wife, both of whom were natives of Germany, the former of Metz-on-the-Rhine. Peter Weaver came to America when a young man and settled first in Virginia, where he engaged in farming and where he remained until his declining years which, in company with his wife, he spent with his son, David, in Allen county. They had three sons, Peter, David and John, the latter the father of Mrs. Thomas. John Weaver was born in Virginia and spent his early life there. He learned the cabinetmaker's trade and received a good practical education. He was married to Sallie Bowers, also a native of Rockingham county, Vir- ginia, who was a daughter of John Bowers and wife, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Pennsylvania of German descent. John Bowers lived and died in the Shenandoah Valley. When Sallie Bowers was sixteen years of age, her father died and her mother spent the latter years of her life with her daughter, Lydia, at Petersburg, Illinois. Sallie was one of four daughters, Helena, Lydia, Sallie and Mary. Sallie spent her early life in Virginia and was married, at Lacey Springs, to Mr. Weaver. After their marriage, they resided at this place for several years and then moved to Allen county, Ohio, making the trip overland in a covered wagon. They settled in German township, three miles north of Lima, where John Weaver bought one hundred and sixty acres of land and to which he added thirty acres in later years. This farm he bought of a Mr. Custard, for forty dollars an acre, a record price in those days, the transaction causing considerable comment. It was here that John Weaver remained during the rest of his PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 757 Hfe, dying in November, 1892. His wife had preceded him by about twelve years. Although not a practical farmer, John Weaver, nevertheless, was an active man. He was a notary public for many years and a justice of the peace for about forty years, the duties of these offices requiring all of his time. He was. a successful man, financially, and a man who enjoyed the universal respect and confidence of his fellow citizens. In politics, he was a Democrat. He was a charter member of the Christian church at Cairo and was a deacon in that church until his death. John and Sallie (Bowers) Weaver had ten children, eight daughters . and two sons, Mary, who became the wife of Frank Cupp, of Ava, Illinois; Hannah, who married Doctor Crone}^ of Columbus, Ohio ; Sarah, deceased, who was the wife of Henry Irvin, of Lima, Ohio; Samantha, who married Dr. G. H. Irvin, of Lancaster, California; Ollie, who married Nicholas Pf eifer, of Elida, Ohio ; Frank, who is a farmer at Beaver Dam, Ohio ; Ida, who became the wife of Eugene Ritenour, of Elida, Ohio ; Lydia, who mar- ried Edward Enslen, of Gomer, Ohio; Lovetta, who is the wife of Mr. Thomas; and William, of Lima, Ohio. Prior to his marriage, Mr. Thomas spent four or five years as a clerk at Lima, Ohio. After his marriage, he settled on eighty acres of his father's land in the southwestern part of Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, only ten acres of which land was cleared. Mr. Thomas built a four-roomed frame house to which he moved later, where he and his wife have resided since. Mr. Thomas proceeded to clear and drain the land which has prac- tically been completed. In addition to the original eighty, some years later, Mr. Thomas purchased eighty acres on the south, about twenty-five acres of which was cleared, the remainder having since been put under cultivation. In addition to other improvements, Mr. Thomas has added five rooms to his residence, built a large frame barn, a cattle shed and other buildings. Today he has one of the finest and best-improved farms in Putnam county. John E. and Lovetta M. (Weaver) Thomas have had four children, Grace and Glenn, twins ; Juanita and Bernice. Grace and Glenn were born on April 7, 1890, and the latter died on September 7, 1890; Grace, who gradu- ated from Defiance College, is now a member of the faculty of the Paulding high school; Juanita, January 25, 1892, is now the wife of J. C. Slusser, of Ada, Ohio, and has one child, Roger Weaver; Bernice, March 23, 1896, is a graduate of the Vaughn.sville high school. John E. Thomas has always done general farming and has been very successful. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 711, 75° PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. of Vaughnsville. John E. Thomas and wife are members of the Ottawa Christian church where Mr. Thomas is treasurer of this congregation. John E. Thomas is one of Sugar Creek township's well-known and progressive farmers ; in fact, he is rated as one of the best farmers in this section of the state. His standing in the community is of the very highest and he is popu- lar with all classes of people. Mr. Thomas has served as justice of the peace for one term and for several terms as a member of the township school board. In addition to his interests in farming, he had considerable success in buying and selling live stock. WILLIAM E. REIGER. Dependent, very largely, upon his own resources from his early youth, A\ ilham E. Reiger, of Sugar Creek township, has attained no insignificant success. And though he may have, like most men, encountered obstacles and met with reverses, he has pushed steadily forward, ever willing to work for the success he has achieved. His tenacity and fortitude are due, no doubt, in a large measure to the worthy traits inherited from his sterling father and ancestors. His high ideals and correct principles he has ever sought to per- petuate in his relations of life. William E. Reiger was bom on March 31, 1876, four miles north of Dayton, in Montgomery county, Ohio. He is the son of Ephraim and Chris- tiana (Busche) Reiger. Ephraim Reiger was born in November, 1841, at Baden, Germany, and was the son of Leopold and Christine (Sipe) Reiger. Leopold Reiger was a farmer by occupation, who also conducted a vineyard. He came to America in 1847 and settled in Montgomery county, Ohio, near Dayton, where he purchased a farm and remained for the balance of his life. There were three children born to Leopold and Christine (Sipe) Reiger, Ephraim, the father of William E. ; Minnie, the wife of Valentine Henne, who resided in Dayton, and Barbara, deceased. Ephraim Reiger came to America with his parents at the age of six years and spent his childhood in Montgomery county, where he attended the common schools and as a young man was employed as a farmer in Mont- gomery and adjoining counties. He also worked some time in Van AVert county. At the age of twenty-seven he was married to Christiana Busche, of Montgomery county, who was born there in September, 1851. She was a daughter of William and Christiana (Arrat) Busche, both of whom were natives of Germany. William Busche was a farmer by occupation and spent PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 759 practically all his life after coming to America in Montgomery county. Will- iam and Christiana (Arrat) Busche had eight children, five daughters and three sons, William, Jacob, Charles, Callie, Rosie, Matilda, Annie and Chris- tiana, the mother of Mr. Reiger. Christiana spent her childhood in Mont- gomery county and remained there until her marriage. After the marriage of Ephraim Reiger he remained in Montgomery county for sixteen years, where he was engaged in farming. Subsecjuently he moved to Putnam county, settling in Sugar Creek township, where, five years previously, he had pur- chased eightj'-six and one-half acres two miles east of Vaughnsville. It was known as the Nichols farm. This farm had a four-room log house and a log barn. The land at this time had been about half cleared, Ephraim Reiger clearing the remainder, excepting six acres. He improved the farm by the erection of a commodious nine-room residence, a large barn (forty by one hundred and eleven feet), and other buildings in keeping with home-like surroundings. To his original holdings Ephraim Reiger added forty acres on the north, making a total of one hundred and twenty-six and one-half acres. This farm comprises as fine land as is to be found anywhere in Putnam county. Ephraim Reiger continued to live on the farm until the spring of 1904, when he retired and moved to Columbus Grove, where he now resides. He and his wife have had six children : Lorena is unmar- ried and lives at home; William E. is the subject of this sketch; Lenora is un- married and lives at home; Arthur resides at Dayton, Ohio; Myrtle is the wife of Benjamin Seitz, Jr., and they ha\'e three children, Emerson, Chris- tine and Mildred; Edna is unmarried and lives at home. William E. Reiger came with his parents to Putnam county, at the age of eleven years, and attended the district school, known as "Abe's College." After finishing the common schools he continued to help his father on the old home place, where he has resided ever since. At the age of twenty-seven, on March 2, 1904, Mr. Reiger was married to Ida Smith, who was born one and three-fourth miles east of Vaughnsville, in Sugar Creek township, March 23, 1878. She is the daughter of James F and Eliza (Slusser) Smith. James F. Smith was born on the old Smith homestead, two miles northeast of Vaughnsville, on April 10, 1842. He is the son of James and Mary fStoner) Smith. The complete history of the Smith family is to be found in a sketch appearing elsewhere in this volume, of C. R. Smith, whose father was James F. Smith's brother. Eliza Slusser was born in Shelby county, Ohio, January 7, 1845, and died in Columbus Grove, December 16, 1907. James F. and Eliza Smith had eleven children, as follow : Ira : James and Joseph, twins; Ollie, the wife of Elias Williams; Benjamin, who lives at 760 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Vaughnsville ; Emma, the wife of C. H. Huffman; Ida A., the wife of Mr. Reiger; Anna, who died at the age of sixteen; Leuella, the wife of Alfred Newton, of Bowling Green, Ohio; Jennie, the wife of Gomer Williams, of Cambridge, Ohio, and Jesse. Ida A., the wife of Mr. Reiger, spent her childhood on the old home place and remained there until her marriage. William E. Reiger took charge of the home farm after his marriage, and has lived upon it since that time. He has always done general farm- ing and is an extensive breeder of thoroughbred Polled-Durham cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs. William E. Reiger is a member of the Christian church at Vaughnsville. Ele has been a trustee and chorister of this church for many years. His wife is also a member. Mr. Reiger is one of Sugar Creek townships most sub- stantial farmers. He is well and favorably known and enjoys the confidence of all his neighbors. He is a Democrat and is a member of Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 711 at Vaughnsville. BENJAMIN KIRKENDALL. Few residents of Putnam county, Ohio, are as well and favorably known as the enterprising farmer and representative citizen whose life story is here briefly told. None stands higher than he in the confidence and esteem of the community in which he resides, and for the material advancement of which he has devoted much of his time and influence. Benjamin Kirkendall, a well-known farmer of Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, is descended from patriotic stock, and was born on a farm in Greensburg township, January 4, 185 1, the son of Daniel and Eliza- beth Kirkendall, who moved from Columbiana county, Ohio, to Putnam county, where they lived only two years, returning to their former home, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Elizabeth Kirkendall was a daughter of John and Ruth Crawford, life-time residents of Columbiana county, Ohio. Their children were David, Perry, who was killed during the Civil War; Sarah, Elizabeth, the mother of Benjamin Kirkendall. The Crawford family figures prominently in the early history of Ohio. Colonel Crawford, one of the ancestors of Benjamin Kirkendall, was captured by the Indians and burned at the stake. Benjamin Kirkendall was educated in the public schools of Greensburg township. When a young man he worked on his father's farm, and also on PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 761 Other farms of the neighborhood, working by the day and month. He also made considerable money chopping rails and constructing ditches. Benjamin Kirkendall was married on December 25, 1895, to Minnie Campbell, the daughter of John and Ellen (McKinley) Campbell' the former a native of Putnam county, and the latter of Columbiana county, Ohio. John Campbell was a son of Robert and Winifred (Guy) Campbell, the former a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and the latter of Columbiana county, Ohio. They were married in Pennsylvania, and, shortly after their marriage, came to Putnam county, Ohio. They lived here for a short time and purchased forty acres of land. This land Mr. Campbell traded for a horse and sleigh and returned to Pennsylvania. Subsequently, he came back to Putnam county, and located on a farm here, where he also established a blacksmith shop. Their children were: Matthew, Sarah Jane, Jesse, Richard John, George, Henry, Elizabeth, Rachel, Almira and three who died young.' Ellen (McGinley) Campbell was a daughter of Charles and Mary Ann Mc- Gmley, the former a native of Ireland. They settled on a farm in Putnam county, and were the parents of the following children: Sarah Ann Mar- garet, Elizabeth, Mary and Ellen. John Campbell, the father-in-law of Mr. Kirkendall, was a soldier in the Civil War, having served in Company C, One Hundred and Twenty- ninth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After his marriage, he moved to a farm m Perry township, and one year later moved to Greensburg town- ship, where he now lives. He is the owner of two hundred and five acres of fine farming land. Mrs. Campbell died in 1914. They had eight children Robert, Albert, deceased; Minnie, Ivy, Gertrude, deceased; Chester Leo' deceased, and Benjamin. Before his marriage, Benjamin Kirkendall lived for a time in Michic^an with his parents, where the family lived for one year, at which time they returned to Putnam county. After his marriage, he moved to a farm which he had previously purchased in Greensburg township. This farm consists of fifty acres, and here Mr. Kirkendall and his wife have lived for nineteen Fh^'^hofn^caftlf "'^" '' ' ''^'''' '-- -^ -^'- ^ ^^--^^y °^ -^-. Benjamin Kirkendall and wife are the parents of three children, only one of whom ,s now living, Gertrude, was born on December 6, 1896 and died m 1907 Dorothy, born on April .1, X902, died at the ^ge of nine months, and Datha, born on January 16, 1904 Eniscon^rf" ,^f ^"'^" ^"^' -if^ f°™-ly belonged to the Methodist Episcopal church, but are now active members of the United Brethren church. 7^2 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. Mr. Kirkendall is a Democrat, and has served his party and the citizens of his township in several important pubhc positions, among which was the office of township trustee, member of the school board and road supervisor. Mr. Kirkendall is an industrious, honored, honest and hardworking farmer, and is a man possessed with a genial temperament and is popular where he lives. GEORGE W. MILLER. Putnam county is indebted, perhaps, to the Miller family as much as to any other, for its wondrous transformation to one of the treasures of the Buckeye state ; for members of this family have been leaders in agricultural, industrial and civic affairs since the early days. Each, with a fidelity to duty and a persistency of purpose peculiar to that class of men who take the lead in large affairs, has performed well his duty in all the relations of life, and while advancing his own interests, he has not been unmindful of the general welfare of his fellow citizens. Thus the members of this family rightfully deser^■e an honored page in the history of this locality. George \V. Miller was born in Sugar Creek township, on April 25, 1864, a son of Jacob W. and Catherine (Best) Miller. Jacob W. Miller was born near Piqua, Ohio, on September 19, 1831, a son of Jackson and Margaret (Teegarden) Miller. Jackson Miller and wife were both natives of Pennsyl- vania, coming to Ohio in a very early day, and locating near Piqua, where they were married. Shortly afterward, when George W.'s father, their son Jacob, was about one year old, they came to Putnam county, locating on what became a part of Sugar Creek township, Allen county, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Margaret Teegarden's father, Peter Tee- garden, came to Putnam county in the early days, and entered government land, buying twelve quarter sections in one body. This land he distributed among his children, one of whom, Margaret, was the subject's grandmother, who received one of these quarter sections. On this old homestead, Jacob Miller was reared to manhood, and received his education in the schools of the neighborhood. At about the age of twenty-seven years, he was married to Catherine Best. He was one of nine children born to his parents, eight of whom grew to maturity, namely: Jacob, Elizabeth, Nancy Ann, Margaret, Lucinda, Mary, who died in infancy, Jackson, Elisha and William. Each of these received from his parents eighty acres of land. That inherited by Jacob lies one and three-quarter miles east of Vaughnsville. After his mar- PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 750 riage to Catherine Best, at the age of about twenty-seven years, he continued to operate the old home place, and there remained until his death, which oc- curred on January 17, 1906. His wife, Catherine, who was born in 1841, died on February 17, 1914. She was the daughter of George and Hannah (Sneary) Best, natives of Tuscarawas county, who settled in Union town- ship when Catherine was about twelve years of age, and there George Best and wife spent the remainder of their lives. Jacob Miller was a hard-work- ing man, and by good management and strict economy accumulated an estate of four hundred acres, from which, at his death, each of his children re- ceived forty acres. To him and his wife were born a large family, all of whom grew to maturity, namely: William, now deceased; George; Sarah, deceased ; James ; Jane ; Ann ; Margaret, deceased ; Mary, and Allen. George W. Miller was reared under the parental roof, securing a good, practical, common school education, and on the death of his father, received the northwest forty-acre tract of the original one hundred and sixty acres of his father's estate. To this he later added fifty acres of the north and twenty acres on the east, thus giving him a splendid farm of one hundred and ten acres. He remained, continuously, on the old home place, until about 19 13, when he moved to his present residence and the farm which was formerly known as the James Garner place. Here he carried on general farming operations and also gave some attention to the breeding of thoroughbred Double Standard Polled Durham cattle. He is progressive and wide-awake in his methods of farming and has earned a high reputation in his com- munity because of his success. The buildings are kept in the best of repair, and the general condition of the farm indicates the owner to be a man of good ideas and splendid taste. George VV Miller was united in marriage on January 27, 191 1, to Ruhama Vandemark, who was born in Union township, on June 20, 1888 a daughter of Elmer and Dora (Osborn) Vandemark, the former a native 'of Union township, and the latter of Allen county. To this union has been born one child, Kennith Ewing, on August 28, 19 14. George W. Miller is an earnest Democrat, while his religious views are those of the Christian church, of which his wife is also a member, and to which they give earnest support. Mr. Miller is well and favorably known throughout his section of Putnam county as a result of the industrious life he has lived here, being regarded by everybody as a man of sound business principles, thoroughly up-to-date in all phases of agriculture and stock rais- ing, and as a man, who, while advancing his individual interests, does not neglect his duties as a citizen. 7^4 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. FRANK EDELBROCK. In most agricultural communities there are farmers who stand out among the citizens of the community, not so much for the volume of their wealth, or the amount of land they own, as for the skill, care and intelli- gence with which their farms are cultivated; for their native and acquired interest and information in the larger phases of the vocation of farming; for their breadth of sympathy and general information on public questions; for their innate personal ability, aside from any material success which they may have attained. One of the farmers of Jackson township, Putnam county, Ohio, who belongs in this class is Frank Edelbrock, whose home is a model of neatness, comfort and hospitality, and is graced with the womanly charm of a devoted and intelligent wife and mother. Born near Glandorf, in Putnam county, Ohio, May 28, 1864, Frank Edelbrock is the grandson of Peter and Anna M. Edelbrock, who were natives of Prussia, and who, after their marriage in that country in 1823, farmed there until 1834, when they emigrated to the United States, landing at Baltimore, Maryland, and later coming to Glandorf, in Putnam county, Ohio, where they were pioneer farmers, and where they lived until their death. He died in 1844, and was survived by his wife, who lived until 1864. Of their nine children all are now deceased. William and Frank, both of whom were volunteer soldiers in the Civil War, and who served in the Thirty-seventh Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, gave the best years of their life to the service of their country, and Frank died in the service. The other children were Henry, Louise, Mrs. Mary C. Bruskutter, Edward, Theo- dore, an infant buried at sea during the voyage to America, and Andrew, who was Mr. Edelbrock's father. Andrew Edelbrock was a lad six years old when his parents emigrated to America. Born near Vilda, Prussia, on January 6, 1827, he lived on his father's farm near Glandorf, in Greensburg township, attended the public schools of his generation, and, when fifteen years of age, worked for a short time as clerk at Shiloh, Ohio, returning to Greensburg township in 1856. Four years later he was married to Catherine Herlage, and, after his mar- riage, lived on a farm of eighty acres in Greensburg township. He moved to a farm of two hundred and forty acres in Jackson township in 1870, and in 1907 removed to Kalida, where he lived retired until his death, July 6, 19 1 3. He and his wife were members of the St. Michael's Catholic church. Of their twelve children, six are living and six are deceased, as follow: PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 76^ William H., Mary, Frank, Ignatius, Albert and Emma, living; and Barney, Helena, John, Amalia, Peter and Anna, deceased. The parents of Mrs. Catherine (Herlage) Edelbrock came to this coun- try before their marriage, settled on a farm in Greensburg township after their marriage, and reared a family of four children, all of whom are de- ceased, as follow : Catherine, Helena, Mary and Anna. They were mem- bers of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf. Educated in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, and reared on his father's farm in that township, Frank Edelbrock, after having reached his majority, rented the I-Cimmerle farm, in Jackson township, and remained there until some time after his marriage, when he removed to the Pott farm, in section ii, of Jackson township, where he lived for about two years, hav- ing previously purchased eighty acres in section 12 in Jackson township. After leaving the Pott farm, he moved to" this farm, and here he has erected substantial buildings, including a splendid barn and residence. Mr. Edel- brock owns forty acres in Greensburg township, which he uses for pasture, and which he has cleared and drained. He does general farming and makes a specialty of raising Hereford and Durham cattle. His farm is very attrac- tive, has a splendid driveway which appears to the very best advantage dur- ing any season of the year. Frank Edelbrook was married on November 25, 1895, to Katherine Summers, a daughter of William P. and Mary Summers of Union township, the former of whom was born in County Clare, Ireland, in 1823, and who was the son of Thomas and Katherine Summers. Thomas Summers was the son of a wealthy contractor whose property was confiscated as a conse- quence of the part he took in the Rebellion of 1798 in Ireland, and with his children he was forced to flee the country. At the age of ten years, William P- Summers became a clerk to a priest and, while acting in this capacity, ran away to sea and became an able seaman, visiting almost every country in the world. He sailed around Cape Horn to California, in 1849, became a gold miner of that country and later was a gold miner in Australia. Returning to Ireland, he was married, March 15, 1857, to Mary Martin, and coming to America with his bride shortly after. their marriage, they settled first in Seneca county, Ohio, and in 1861 came to Putnam county, living first in Kalida and later on a farm. During the last few years the venerable William P. Summers and his wife have lived in Kalida. He has served as postmaster of Kalida, as township clerk, as constable, and in other minor offices. He has always been a Democrat. He is well-versed in travel lore and, being possessed of a brilliant intellect, is able to tell many interesting tales of his 766 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. extensive travels. William P- Summers and wife were the parents of nine children. Mrs. Edelbrook has been the mother of three children: William, born on August I, 1896, and who died on September 28, 1898; Mary, April 18, 1898; and Edward, January 5, 1903. She was a school teacher before her marriage, and is a woman of splendid intellectual attainments. Possessed of remarkable literary ability, she has been a prodigious contributor to news- papers and magazines, especially the Ohio Farmer and Orange Judd weeklies. Her contributions to the various farm papers have been admired for their practical utility. Coming as they do from the practical wife of a practical farmer, and dealing with the commonest matters of farm life from a woman's point of view, they have been widely read. Mrs. Edelbrook has applied her scientific knowledge of the farm successfully to the management of her poultry farm and has been very successful in all of her undertakings. Her co-operation and sympathetic interest contributed largely to the success of her husband. Frank Edelbrook and wife are members of St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida. Mr. Edelbrook is a popular, industrious and enterprising farmer, a valuable citizen in his community and one who is widely admired by the people of Putnam county. DAVID S. EVANS. The student interested in the history of Putnam county, Ohio, does not have to carry his investigation far in its annals before learning that David S. Evans has been an active and leading representative of the agricultural inter- ests and that his labors have proven a potent force in making this a rich farming region. For a number of years, Mrs. Evans has carried on farm- ing, gradually improving his farm and, while he has prospered in this, he has also found ample opportunity to assist in the material development of the county and his co-operation has been for the general good. David S. Evans is descended from a sterling line of Welsh ancestry, being the son of David and Elizabeth (Davis) Evans and the grandson of William and Margaret Evans. David Evans, Sr., was born in North Wales in 1827 and, in his native land, was reared during his youth and received his early education. In young manhood, he came to America, settling first in Butler county, Ohio, where he followed the occupation of farming. Later he came to Allen and Putnam counties and, after his marriage in 1871, set- tled one mile south of Rimer in Sugar Creek township, where he bought PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 767 eighty acres of land. This land had a two-roomed log cabin and a frame barn with about twelve acres of land cleared, the remainder of the tract being in a virginal state of wildness and most of it heavily covered with tim- ber. He proceeded to clear this land and cut the timber from fifty-two acres, having sixty-four acres in all in comfortable condition at the time of his death. He tiled much of this land and, in other ways, improved it so that he was considered an intelligent and progressive agriculturist, being numbered among the leaders in his community. His death occurred on September 27, 1877, he being fifty-one years of age. On January 30, 1871, David Evans, Sr., married Mrs. Ehzabeth (Davisj Davis, the daughter of Henry and Mary (Evans) Davis. She was born in Butler county, Ohio, January 31, 1833. She had previously been married to Richard Davis, who was born in North Wales in 1818, the son of Thomas and Sarah Davis, their marriage occurring in Allen county, August 17, 185 1. To this union were born three children, Henry R., on August 8, 1852, who resides in Illinois; Thomas A., June 25, 1853, who resides in Nebraska; and William L., June 5, 1855, who lives in Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Davis died in 1855. Another child, Rhoda R., born November 17, 1863, is the wife of Richard Davis and lives in Allen county. To David and Elizabeth Evans were born four children, the first of whom died at birth, January 30, 1871 ; John B., born on June 26, 1873, and died August 21, 1877; David S., Novem- ber 10, 1874; and Robert, November 5, 1876, and died February 20, 1877. The mother of these children died in Gomer, Allen county, May 24, 1899, at the age of sixty-six years. It is noteworthy that she had four brothers in the Civil War, Abner, Henry, Silas and Ebenezer, Henry being killed dur- ing that conflict. David S. Evans, who is the only survivor of his family, was born, as above stated, on November 10, 1874, on the farm where he now resides. He received his education in the common schools of his township and then took a commercial course at the Lima Business College. He then took em- ployment with a clothing concern at Lima, Ohio, with whom he remained for two years and at the end of which time he returned to the home farm, to the cultivation of which he has devoted himself, continuously, since. He is wide-awake and up-to-date in his farming methods and has met with good success, his efforts being rewarded with a due measure of success. On January 18, 1899, Mr. Evans was married to Anna McBride, who was born in Amanda township, Allen county, August 24, 1874, the daughter of Levi and Druzilla (Cremean) McBride. Levi McBride, was was of Scotch-Irish descent was born at Adelphia, Ross county, Ohio, June 21, 1832, and died December 10, 1904. He was the son of Alexander McBride, who 768 PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. was probably born in Ireland. Druzilla Cremean was born in Allen county, Ohio, on May i8, 1835, the daughter of John Cremean and wife, who were pioneers of that locality. Levi McBride came with his parents to Allen county in 1838, and settled in German township, near Allentown, where he grew to manhood. After his marriage, he settled in Amanda township where he contmued to live the remainder of his life. To him and his wife were born ten children, John, who died at the age of fourteen years; Willis, who resides in Allen county; Clara, the wife of James Baxter, of Amanda town- ship, Allen county; Theodore, who died in infancy; Harvey, of Los Angeles Cahfornia; Caddie, the wife of B. S. Brenneman, of Lima, Ohio; Anna, the wife of Mr. Evans,; James, who resides in Yuma, Arizona; Dora, who died at the age of twenty-two years, and one who died in infancy. Mr. Evans is a Republican and has, for many years, taken an active part m public local affairs. He has been a director for three years of the Allen County Mutual Relief Association, of which he is now serving a second term as treasurer and is also a director of the Ohio Mutual Tornado and Wind- storm Insurance Association. In his political party, he is held in high esteem and served as a member of the county central committee for about eight years and also four years as a member of the executive committee. He is a mem- ber of the Congregational church at Comer of which his wife is also a mem- ber. Because of his upright life and conspicuous success in his private affairs, he has achieved an enviable reputation in his community and is numbered among the substantial citizens of Sugar Creek township.' A man of broad experience and exemplary character with an intelligent conception of life, he exerts a marked influence in favor of the best interests of his community. GEORGE C. DeVORE. George C. DeVore is recognized as one of the energetic and well-known farmers of Putnam county, who, by his enterprise and improved methods, has contributed, in a material way, to the agricultural advancement of Riley township and the community where he lives. In the course of an honorable career he has been very successful, and enjoys the prestige of a successful man among the representative men of his community. It is eminently proper that attention be called to his achievements and due credit be accorded to his work as a pubKc-spirited citizen. George C. DeVore was born on May 11, 1867, in Blanchard township. (U.ii !.()(; cAiiix iKiMio i)K (;i:iii;(;io c m: voitiv nESlDKXCK (IF (IKdKCE C. DE VoUE. o w a o a < o w a > PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 769 Putnam county, Ohio, the son of George W. and Mary Jane (Bracy) De- Vore. George W. DeVore was born in Carroll county, Ohio, July 4, 1840, the son of William and Fannie (Alfred) -DeVore. William DeVore, great- grandfather of George C., was of French parentage, but a native of England, where he spent his youth. Here he was educated and graduated from England's best institutions of learning. He came to America in the early days and settled in Carroll county, Ohio, where he owned a farm. He and his wife were the parents of four children, all born in Carroll county. They were as follow: Mrs. Mary Ann Green, George W., James and Mrs. Eliza- beth Richards. Georg-e W. DeVore, the father of George C, lost his parents when he was a small child, probably not more than four or five years of age. After the death of the parents the children were taken to be reared by neighbors. George W. and Elizabeth were reared by Charles Robinson. The family which took the other children, later went West, and George W. did not see his brother and sister again until five years ago, in 19 10, after a lapse of sixty-five years. James finally located his brother, George W., when it developed that the former had gone to the Civil War and had been educated at Valparaiso University. Mary Ann had married a man by the name of Green, who was a minister in Iowa, and she had died, about 1904 in that state. George W. DeVore spent his youth and young manhood on the farm of Charles Robmson, in Carroll county, Ohio, and received his early educa- tion there. At the age of nineteen, or about 1859, he came to Putnam county, Ohio, and worked for George Kober, in Blanchard township Two years after coming to Blanchard township Mr. DeVore was mar- ried to Mary Jane Bracy, who was born in Blanchard township June ^o 1840. She was the daughter of John Bracy, Sr., and wife, whose family history IS contained in the sketch of Isaac Bracy, her brother, found else- where m this volume. After his marriage George W. DeVore continued for a time, to work for George Kober, and then started to work for himself' locating north of Gilboa. Shortly after this, in 1863, he enlisted in the Civil War and served until its close, when he returned home and took up farming on forty acres which his wife had inherited from her father, John n\u T r. '^r "'' ' '"''"^'"' ^^™^^' -d managed to acquire about three hundred and fifty acres, eighty acres of which George C now owns and lives on. ^ Mrs. George W. DeVore died on March i, 1903, at the age of sixty- two. She and her husband were the parents of nine children, all of whom 49 JT^ PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. are living. They are as follow : John W., James Isaac, George C, David A., Henry E., Lillie May, Samuel H., Mary Ellen and Jennie Alice. George C. DeVore was born on a part of the John Bracy, Sr., farm, in the south central part of Blanchard township. This place is now owned by John Bracy, Jr. A year or two later his parents moved to Blanchard township, Hancock county, and here George C. spent his childhood and youth, attending the common schools of that township. After finishing school he continued to help his father on the old home place, until twenty- one years of age, when he began farming for himself. He rented neigh- boring farms for about four years, and the next year he worked for John Moffat, Sr., by the year. Following this he rented a farm for one-third of the crops. George C. DeVore was married on August 23, 1893, to Leah Alecta Engle, who was bom in Riley township, Putnam county, Ohio, December 28, 1869, and who is the daughter of Noah and Mary Catherine (Stover) Engle. Mrs. Engle taught school for five years in Putnam county. Her father, Daniel Stover, came to Putnam county, Ohio, in 183 1, and was one of the first pioneers of Putnam county. He entered one hundred and sixty acres of land in Riley township, and it was on this farm that Mrs. DeVore was born, as was also her mother. After his marriage, in 1893, Mr. DeVore rented a farm of eighty acres in the northern part of Riley township, belonging to his father, and the following year, in 1894, he purchased the same farm from his father. At this time the farm had a one-roomed log house and a frame barn. Fifty acres of the land was cleared, and Mr. DeVore has managed to clear the remainder, with the exception of six acres. In addition to other improve- ments, he has built a modern residence of ten rooms and a bath and other buildings, in keeping with the surroundings. Mr. DeVore has added one hundred and twenty acres to his original holdings, until he now owns one of the finest farms in Putnam county. To Mr. and Mr§. George C. DeVore two children have been born, Howard Engle, born on August ii, 1894, who is now a junior in the State University, where he is taking the agricultural course. He served on the editorial staff of the agricultural department of the State University, having won his scholarship, a two-year free course, in oratory and examinations from Putnam county, and Mary Laoma, born on November 16, 1898, who is a student in the Pandora high school. She won a free trip to Columbus in domestic science. Mr. DeVore is a Democrat. He has been a member of the school board PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 771 for ten years and president of the board for seven years. He is a member of the Methodist Protestant church, and his wife is also a member of this church. Mr. DeVore is a class leader and chairman of the board of trustees. George C. DeVore is one of Riley township's and Putnam county's most substantial citizens. He is a wide-awal