Auglaize County, Ohio - The whole text, 1880 (part 3 of 5)

When the question was thus submitted to the voters of the county, German township, holding the balance of power between the rival factions, was generally conceded to have favored St. Marys, but, by some manipulation of the returns, they were never handed in with those of the other townships, and Wapakoneta, in absence of those returns, had a decided majority, and thus secured the prize. It is impossible to determine what the result would have been had this self-disfranchised township expressed its real sentiment; but it is evident that it lay in its power to dictate between the rival towns. This rivalry, naturally enough, developed into enmity, and this, in its turn, has retarded the progress of both towns. Perhaps the most prominent illustration of the evil results produced, was in the case of the P., F. W. & C. R. R., which was driven from the county by the jealousy of these towns. To-day many realize tiie need of this road, and are watching closely the prospects of securing the N. Y., Pa. & Ohio road over about the same old proposed route. Let them bury the past, improve the present, and build a future.

Geology. By C. W. Williamson

Auglaize County lies at the southern extremity of the region known as the "Black Swamp." It is only the northwestern portion of the county, however, that possesses the characteristics peculiar to that noted region. It lies on the watershed sloping toward Lake Erie, except a small portion near the eastern line drained by the Scioto River.

There is no portion of the county that can he termed "hilly," yet it is sufficiently undulating that, by a proper system of ditching, the greater portion of it has been brought under cultivation. The Auglaize and St. Marys Rivers drain nearly the entire ^ounty.

The rock underlying the county is, with one exception, concealed by heavy beds of drift, varying in thickness from a few feet, on the farm of George Lathrop, in Logan township, to perhaps a hundred feet in other sections. The only outcrop within the county is the exposure of the Lower Helderberg formation in the bed of the Auglaize River, in Logan township, on lands owned by Daniel Richardson, Benjamin Backus, J. Pierson, Russell Berry man, and George Lathrop. The stone is generally thin-bedded, of a dark blue color, and contains a large percentage of organic matter Specimens have been received by the writer, containing as high as 30 per cent, of asphaltum. If this asphaltic stone, on examination, should prove to be extensive, it might be made of considerable economical value in macadamizing roads. One of the State geologists pronounces it to be similar in composition to the stone used in the construction of the celebrated roads about Paris, known as the Boulevards. It is not well adapted to lime-burning, and shales too much, when exposed to the air, to be of much value as a building stone. The fossils common to the Lower Helderberg are not abundant in this outcrop. Leperditia alta and Pentamerous galeatus are the only characteristic fossils found.

Judging from the formation of surrounding counties, the Niagara limestone must underlie the townships of Wayne, Goshen, Clay, Pusheta, Washington, Jackson, German, and St. Marys, the boundary line between it and the Lower Helderberg formation passing toward the southwest through Union township, thence northwest through Noble township, and about a mile south of Wapakoneta. This line, then, is the shore-line of the Helderberg Sea, that covered the northwestern portion of the country.

has not yet been definitely ascertained. This deposit consists of boulders, gravel, sand, and stratified clay, surmounted b}* deposits of sand, graved, and blocks, of all sizes, of rock traceable to formations that lie far to the north west, north, and northeast. Among this miscellaneous collection the writer has noticed specimens from the Galena limestone, from Azoic rock, Hudson, Clinton, Niagara, Lower Helderberg, Corniferous, and Hamilton formations. Man}' of them contain fossils characteristic of the formations to which they belong. The same remark is true of most of the gravel deposits of the county, except that the above-named varieties of stone have been broken into small pieces and rounded by attrition. Most of the larger transported stones are rounded b}^ wear. The Corniferous, and an occasional block of Niagara stone are the only exceptions. They seem to have been dropped at a date so late that they escaped the eroding and disintegrating agencies that were at work during the time that preceded their deposit.

The phenomena of the drift period have been accounted for in different ways. The glacial theory seems to be the one most generally accepted by geologists of the present day, and is the one adopted by Prof. Newbeny, chief geologist of the Ohio Geological Survey, in discussing the drift deposits of the State.

The glacial theory, as applied to our locality, supposes a continental elevation to have taken place at the close of the Helderberg period, - the elevation being greatest in the regions north of the Great Lakes, and that this elevation was accompanied by a reduction of temperature corresponding to the altitude that brought on a long arctic winter.

With an elevation of several hundred feet above the present level, the climate of Ohio must have been similar to that of Greenland at the present day. The northern regions are supposed to have been covered by a vast ice sheet that reached as far south as the fortieth degree of latitude. This ice-field of vast extent and thickness moved slowly southward, down the long slope, planing and striating the rocky beds until it readied the warm waters on the south. The surface of the rock at Lathrop's quarry is striated in the same manner as are the surface exposures of most of the rock formations of the State.

The history of the effects of modern Alpine glaciers goes far toward establishing the theory of an ancient glacial period. The moraines of modern glaciers correspond to the accumulations that are common to all the northern regions, and the smoothing, rounding, and polishing of the rocks are the same

" There came a time at last when the region south of the northern line of the great lakes was depressed five hundred feet or more below its present level." During this epoch the fine laminated clays, which cover so much of the rock surface in the interior of the continent, were deposited. They are called the Erie clays by geologists. The blue clay encountered in digging wells belongs to the series. The thickness varies from five to forty feet in different sections of the county. Wells only penetrate to the water-bearing gravel or sand that lies between the blue clay and the rock. As before stated, the entire surface deposit probably does not exceed one hundred feet in depth.

The drift of the Terrace Epoch here rests upon the blue cla3T, and is composed of sand, gravel, clay, and boulders. These materials are arranged in a somewhat promiscuous manner, except in the ridges crossing the country. They, as a general rule, exhibit an oblique stratification, commencing a few feet below the surface and extending downward to the blue clay.

In a few instances the terrace drift seems to have broken through the thin blue clay stratum, and mingled with the gravel and boulders lying next to the rock foundation. "That these materials were not carried by currents of water or glaciers is certain; either of these transporting agents would have torn up the Erie clays, which now form an unbroken sheet beneath them." Unbroken sheet we say, because the instances referred to, in which the terrace drift seems to have broken through the Erie, was probably produced by the grounding of icebergs.

The emergence of the continent after the Erie clay deposit was somewhat slow, and marked by intervals of rest. The glaciers had retreated to the regions north of the great lakes. As they moved southward down the slope, and were protruded into the sea, icebergs detached from the protrusions, and loaded with sand, gravel, and boulders floated out to sea, sowing broadcast their cargoes over the southern shallows, just as they are now doing over the banks of Newfoundland and the bottom of the Antarctic Ocean.

We have remarked that the emergence of the continent after the Erie clay deposit was somewhat slow and marked by frequent intervals of rest. During these periods the waves washed up ridges, or raised beaches wherever the shore was more nearly level and composed of soft materials. These old shore lines are distinctly marked by the three ridges that cross the county. The outer and older line is characterized by a succession of gravelly knolls and ridges, varying from one-half to three miles in width. It crosses German township, the northwest corner of Shelby County, Pusheta, Clay, and Union townships. New Bremen, Botkins, and St. Johns are situated on it. Owing to its remarkable development at the latter place, it has been named St. Johns Ridge.

The second gravelly ridge, called the Wabash Ridge,- intersects the county in a similar way, passing through St. Marys, Moulton, and Duchouquet townships. It is intersected by the Auglaize River at Wapakoneta. The third passes through the northern part of Salem township. This is simply a broad, gentle undulation or- thickening of drift, and consists mostly of cla}7. If it contains gravel it lies at a considerable depth. In some localities these ridges are broken into rounded or elongated heaps from twenty to sixty feet in height, to which tiie name "hog's -back" is frequently applied. The ridges, " hog's -backs," and knolls usually exhibit an irregular and oblique stratification of beds of sand, gravel, and occasionally boulders.

A section of the Wabash Ridge at Wapakoneta, taken by Mr. Winchell, exhibits the arrangement of the materials in most of them. Commencing at the base and proceeding upward, the following order was noted: -

Prof. Newberry in writing on the Surface Geology of Ohio says : " It seems that in the period of the greatest submergence the larger part of the summit of the watershed was under water, and was swept by breakers and shore waves, by which some of the beds of sand and gravel were formed." He further supposes that additional materials composing the ridges and knolls were derived from icebergs stranding on the shoals which now form the crest of the divide. His theory accounts in a more satisfactory manner than most theories do, for the presence of the large boulders found on the summits of the ridges and knolls. He further says: "At this time a sufficient depth of water existed in the passes of the watershed to float icebergs of considerable size ; and as currents flowed through these passes, some of the boulders scattered over southern Ohio were probably transported by them. When the waterlevel had been somewhat depressed by the slow elevation of the continent, these gaps became, as I have supposed, waste weirs, through which powerful streams of water continued to flow for a long time, cutting the gaps deeper, and transporting great quantities of gravel and boulders, and depositing them in lines which lead down toward the valley of the Ohio." Five passes are described by him. The first is the one traversed by the Miami Canal at the St. Marys summit. This has a level of 36*7 feet above Lake Erie, and connects the v&lleys of the Maumee and Miami. The second is the one through which the waters of Muchinippie Swamp flow into the Scioto River. All the lines of drainage leading southward from these passes are marked by deeply excavated channels, now more or less perfectly filled by accumulations of rolled and transported material.

The foregoing hypothesis accounts in a satisfactory manner for the numerous small ponds without outlets, found in the county. They were without much doubt produced by the dipping down of icebergs when thrown out of balance Ivy melting or other causes. Some of them were produced, no doubt, by the grounding of bergs, as the rims of gravel and boulders in some instances seem to indicate.

After the emergence of the land from the last great body of water that covered it, the new surface abounded in irregularities, depressions, and basins, which afterward became ponds, swales, and swamps. The numerous ponds and swamps scattered over the country were stocked with fresh-water mollusks. The shells of these mollusks and the precipitated carbonate of lime formed what is known as fresh-water shell marl. In the marl thrown from a ditch on the farm of Thomas Baggs in Clay township, the following shells have been identified: Lymnea, Planoribus, and a species of Cyclas. The same varieties have been identified in the marl taken from the bottoms of ponds in other sections of the county. The time will probably come when these shell deposits will become of considerable economical value as a fertilizer. These marl beds are generally overlaid by beds of peat or muck,, composed principally of vegetable matter, and usually still in process of formation.

After the close of the Drift Period when the land had become dry and covered with vegetation, " it is probable that animals of various kinds appeared and made the interior their home. It is quite probable too, that some of them returned from places south of the Glacial area where they and their ancestors had lived during the Drift Period.

Bones op Mastodons. - Conspicuous among the animals whose remains are found in Ohio are those huge mammals, the Mammoth and Mastodon. Three of the latter species of animal have been discovered in Auglaize County.

The first skeleton was discovered in the fall of 18*70 in Clay township, two and a half miles east of the village of St. Johns, by some laborers engaged in excavating a ditch through Muchinippi swamp. The depth of the swamp at the point at which the discovery was made is about eight feet, of winch the upper third is of peat, and the remainder of marl, or marly clay. The bones were found in a posture natural to a quadruped when sinking in the mire. The head and tusks were thrown upward and the right forefoot thrown forward, as in the act of walking.

The writer visited the locality on the Monday following the discovery, and before the removal of the bones of the lower extremities from the ground. A careful examination was made of the position of the animal, and measurements taken of the length of the bocty, neck, head, and circumference of the tusks. The accompanying engraving represents the entire skeleton of the Mastodon discovered in 1845, in a marsh near Newburgh, New York, and now in possession of Dr. J. C. Warren of Boston. The parts lettered in the engraving represent the parts of the Clay township Mastodon found, and now in the writer's possession. The body was seventeen and one-half feet long from where the tusks entered the cranium to the base of the tail; and the head, as near as could be ascertained, was between four and five feet long.

"Dr. Warren's specimen is eleven feet high, and seventeen feet long to the base of the tail. The length of the tusks is twelve feet, of which two and one-half feet are inserted in the sockets. The estimated height of the animal, when living, was from twelve to thirteen feet, and the whole length, adding seven feet for the horizontal projection of the tusks, from twenty-four to twenty-five feet."

A comparison of the length of the bones of the Clay township Mastodon with the Newberg specimen shows the former to be the larger of the two. It was probably a foot higher, and from one to two feet longer.

The tusks and most of the vertebras, ribs, and pelvis, were so much decayed that they crumbled to pieces on exposure to the air. The following are the portions of the skeleton found: -

Tusks. - Tlie circumference of one of the tusks at the point where it entered the cranium was twenty-two inches - their length was not ascertained.

Teeth. - There were four of the lower jaw teeth found, all of them in an excellent state of preservation. The two anterior teeth (Fig. 1) each weigh four and one-half pounds, and are seven and one-half inches long by three and one-half inches in width. They each have three transverse furrows dividing them into four nipples or eminences, each eminence being one and one-half inches in height. The two posterior teeth (Fig. 2) are each four and one-half inches long by three and one-half inches in width. Each of these teeth has three transverse ridges, measuring one and one-fourth inches in height. The enamel is of a dark brown color, one-eighth of an inch in thickness, and not much worn. The roots are four and one-half inches long, and of a form that exhibits great strength.

Humerus (e). - This is the upper bone of the foreleg. Its length is thirty-seven inches, its greatest circumference thirtyfive inches, and its smallest seventeen inches.

Ulna (f). - This is the larger of the bones of the lower part of the foreleg. Its length from the summit of the olecranon process to the lowest point of the inferior extremity is thirtyfour inches, circumference at lower extremity thirty-one inches.

Radius (g). - The smallest bone of the foreleg. Its length is twenty-nine inches, the breadth of its carpal extremity six inches, and the entire circumference of the elbow-joint is fortyfive inches.

Femur, or Thigh bone (a). - This bone in its form resembles the femur- of the human skeleton. It is thirty-nine inches long and seventeen and one-half inches in circumference at the middle of the shaft.

Tibia (b). - The larger of the two lower bones of the hindleg, is twenty-eight inches long. The circumference of the upper extremity is thirty and one-half inches, the middle of the shaft fourteen inches.

Mastodon No. 2. - Part of the bones of another Mastodon was found in Claj' township, in December, 1874, b}r some men engaged in digging a ditch to drain Muchinippi swamp. The ravine in which the animal was found, and through which the ditch was dug, partakes somewhat of the character of the swump. The depth of the superficial deposit at the point at which the remains were found is about six feet. The upper third is black muck, and the remainder shell marl.

The marl thrown out of this ditch, after a few months' exposure to the air, becomes so white as to form a strong contrast with the inky surface soil. The following are the portions of the skeleton found : -

The bones of this specimen are much larger than the corresponding ones of the specimen found in 1870, and are probably those of an old animal, as the teeth are very much worn. The remains were purchased by the writer, and deposited in the museum of the Heidelburg College of this State.

Mastodon No. 3 - A third Mastodon was discovered by Mr. Samuel Craig, in January, 18T8, whilst engaged in surveying in Washington township. No careful search for the skeleton has yet been made. The boggy character of the ground in which the animal is located leads us to believe that the remains will be found in a good state of preservation.

The first and second Mastodons were found so near the surface that we are almost led to the belief that they have been buried within 500 or 1000 years. "There can be no question that they lived and died long after the deposition of the drift on which the marsh deposits rest."

The first printed account we have of the existence of Mastodon hones in this country is found in the volume of the " Transactions of the Royal Society of London," for the year 1714. This volume contains a short article taken from a letter written by Cotton Mather, describing some large bones and a tooth that were discovered at Claverack, N. Y., in 1705.

We have nothing more on the subject until the year 1740, when De Longuiel, a French traveller, discovered bones at Salt Lick, in Ohio, which excited his curiosity so much that

To Cuvier we are indebted for the first elaborate account of the bones of the Mastodon Giganteus. Having satisfied himself that they differed in many respects from the Elephant, he designated the animal from the form of its teeth, calling it Mastodon, from two Greek words, meaning nipple-tooth, or tooth with mammillated eminences.

The great Mastodon of Ohio was not unlike the Elephant in its general outline, though somewhat longer and thicker. It had a trunk, tusks which curved upward, and four molar teeth in each jaw. The peculiar form of the teeth once led to the erroneous belief that the Mastodon was a carniverous animal. The discoveries made during the present century, however, have decided beyond controversy that he belonged to the herbivora.

In the midst of a collection of Mastodon bones imbedded in mud in a bog in Virginia, a mass of small branches, leaves, grass, and a common Virginian species of reed, in a half bruised state, was discovered ; the whole appeared to have been enveloped in a sack, probably the stomach of the animal.

The Newburgh Mastodon when dug up had within its ribs a blackened mass of vegetable matter, composed in part of leaves, grass, and twigs of spruce and fir.

Bones in greater or less numbers have been found scattered over a large part of the United States and Canada. Big Bone Lick in Kentucky received its name from the bones of this huge animal. The bones of a hundred Mastodons have been discovered in that locality, and probably as many in different sections of Ohio.

Archaeology

Within the last few years great interest has been awakened, touching the antiquities of the pre-historic and Indian races of America. These races, destitute of a written language, have left their history only in landmarks, consisting of mounds, effigies, fortifications, implements, and hieroglyphics. The most ancient of these races have marked their occupancy everywhere by the erection of mounds of different characters, on which account the races have been designated the mound builders. In this State alone, about thirteen thousand mounds, fortifications, and inclosures have been found. These display great engineering skill, particularly in the construction of inclosures and other works of defence, and must have required great periods of time for completion.

art, and are standing monuments of a skilled people who preceded the savages found at the advent of the whites. These latter tribes have lued the mounds of their predecessors as burial places, which accounts for the imperfect forms which some of them exhibit. Mr. J. B. MacLean, in "The Mound Builders," says, " The difference between the ancient and more recent deposits is easily told. In the latter, the stratification is broken up, while in the former, it still presents its original integrity."

Implements belonging to both the mound builders and Indians are found scattered throughout this county. Many relics have thus been discovered, but where they are found upon the surface, it is impossible to determine to which race they belonged. That the mound builders lost many implements in the chase is undoubtedly true, while we know the same thing to be true of the Indians; and at the same time the Indians confess to having appropriated the implements of a former and more skilful race. Though few, if any, mounds or embankments exist within the county to be attributed to the mound builders, yet the bones and implements exhumed from the three ridges which cross the county are indicative of the occupancy of this section by this ancient people.

Fig. 4 is a cut of a stone implement found in an old grave on the site of Wapakoneta. It is believed by many to have been used as a last by the chief Waughpaughkonetta, who is reputed to have been club-footed. The burial of such articles in the grave of their possessor was an Indian custom.

Fig. 5 represents a red stone pipe which was ploughed up near Wapakoneta, and is now. in possession of Dr. C. Berlin. Its general appearance is excellent, and even graceful, being formed of the red pipe stone, so highly prized by the Indians.

Fig. G represents a pipe found on the farm of Thomas Sehoonover, in Moulton township. It is now in possession of C. W. Williamson, of Wapakoneta. It is of the same variety of stone as figure 5, and exhibits the same excellence of workmanship. On one side it bears the rude sketch of a fish.

Fig. 7 represents a combined tomahawk and pipe, which was found two miles south of Wapakoneta. It is probably of French manufacture. The pipe-bowl has been turned in a lathe. The material is steel, and the workmanship excellent.

Figs. 8 and 9 represent different forms of a stone ornament, known as a pendant or gorgon, which was probably suspended upon the breast, or from the terminal lobe of the ear. Dr. C. C. Abbott, in his work "The Stone Age in New Jersey," says, "At any rate, it was designed for ornament, and not for any other purpose, as has been suggested, such as a fishing-line weight, or a sinker." The holes in these pendants, and other Indian implements, have always been a puzzle to archaeologists. One of the authors of the "Ohio Centennial Report on Archaeology" says, " I think we must give up the theory that the various forms of polished slate, perforated at right angles to the face, were used as sizers and twisters of twine or strips of skin. They are all bored with a taper, which leaves a sharp edge, either at one end, or in the middle of the piece. Those that are more or less worn, present the appearance of having been suspended. Thread twisters and sizers were probably made of wood and bone, like the Iroquois shuttles figured by Mr. Schoolcraft. Some of their perforated stone implements somewhat resemble ours in general form. Most of the striped slate relics I am inclined to place among the ornaments, badges, and armor of the ancient tribes. Some of them would answer all these purposes. The tapering holes are good contrivances for fastening by thongs of raw-hide to a bell-string, or piece of wood. Supposing the head or knot of the thong was let into the bored hole, these plates might be firmly bound to each other, or to the body of the wearer, and the holes not be much worn by the process."

Fig. 10 represents a specimen from Dr. Berlin's cabinet. It is formed of fine-grained green slate, striped with dark bands, as are all the specimens figured, except 4, 5, C, 7, and 11. It would be difficult to tell the use of this instrument. It is too large for a bead, and can scarcely be considered a badge of authority. Being flattened on one side, suggests the possibility of its use as a whistle. Arclneologists class it under the general head of tubes.

Fig. 11 is a representative stone axe, found in nearly every locality in the State. " They are not abundant in the mounds, but are found in large numbers in the valleys. They are fashioned with great skill, of rare and beautiful material, the predominant series being granite. They are found with and without grooves for the adjustment of handles. Those designed to be wielded by both hands have an average weight of ten pounds, although they vary from one to sixteen pounds. The smaller varieties, called hatchets, were used in war, as well as for domestic uses. These weigh from one to two pounds, are destitute of grooves, and are of all sizes, from two to twelve inches. They also vary gi'eatty in design, some having holes for the reception of handles. They are all, for the most part, polished, and some have been ground and polished with elaborate care."

C. W. Williamson has in his possession a stone hoe, or adze, made from the same material as these axes. It resembles the stone axe in every respect. The upper side of the implement is straight, while the under side is bevelled.

Fig. 12 is a beautiful specimen, that may be classed under the head of banner stones. In outline, finish, and perforation, it is faultless. The hole passing through the middle is a very noticeable feature, and measures less than nine-sixteenths of an inch in diameter. It is circular, of uniform dimensions from end to end, and faintly exhibits those rings which characterize holes, drilled with a hollow instrument.

Fig. 14 represents a second example of this perforated ornament, or banner-stone. It is shorter and thicker than fig. 12, but is well made, and drilled with the same smoothness and beauty.

Fig. 13 is a partial representation of a ver3' interesting form of banner-stone. The portion above the perforation is imaginary; and, after reference to Dr. Abbott's work, we incline to the belief that, if the upper portions were made to resemble the lower, it would probably be correct, as that author believes these parts to be alike.

"This form of badge being one of the most elegant and expensive, was probably used to indicate the highest rank of office. The single crescent probably signified a rank next below the double."

Fig. 15 is a curiously wrought imitation of a bird. The knob-like protuberances, representing eyes, stand out from the head one-eighth of an inch.

The bottom of the specimen, as the engraving shows, is fiat, and contains three holes, extending upwards about half way through the body. Its use is not determined.

Among the many other interesting relics found here, is a stone pestle used by the Indians to convert corn into meal. It is seven inches in length, and four and a half inches in diameter at the base, and takes the perfect form of a druggist's pestle. But few of these have been found in this locality, while the one in point is the most perfect specimen we have seen. It was found at the old home of the chief, White Feather, near the present site of Buckland, and is in possession of Robert C. Means of Wapakoneta. A stone mortar was also found in the same vicinity, which, from the statements we have received touching its form and size, we are led to believe they were used together ; but as we have not had the privilege of examining it, we cannot give a minute description.

In connection with these principal specimens, many others of less importance have been gathered within the county; but as these are of a commoner character, a full description would exceed the limits of this work. For a complete elucidation of the subject, the reader is referred to Mr. MacLean's work on "The Mound Builders."

Official Record

The following list exhibits the official directory of the county from its organization to the present year, 1880. The county has supplied three State senators for this district, and prior to the %year 1852 it had three associate judges, we list all these in the official records: -

Prosecuting Attorneys

Witb this cursory review of the county - we have considered it purely as such, as its antecedent history is traced in the general view of the territory prior to the erection of the county - we now turn our attention to the several townships, which will be separately considered.

The county seat is situated on the Auglaize River, in the south part of Duchouquet township, and derives its name from a noted chief, Waughpaughkonnetta, who lived here several years. It is the site of an Indian village which occupied the centre of the Shawnee reserve, and the town centre became the site of the council house of the bands residing on and near the Auglaize River. During the period of Shawnee occupancy it was the headquarters of the tribe, and the councils here convened, summoned many of the greatest orators and warriors of the surrounding nations. This spot is the old home of Logan, as true a friend of the whites as the celebrated Mingo chief of the same name, but a man wiio never sullied his nobler charac- ter by gratifying a thirst for revenge. Here is the old council spot of Blackhoof, whose ripe experience looked back over a century, and whose council was the oracle of inspiration. Even here Blue Jacket and the Turtle must needs come in search of' warriors worthy their leadership; and here they found warriors worthy even of the ancient Shawnee fame.

Here Tecumseh, in private a man, in public something less, sought assistance in his project of confederation, but was stripped of his mask by Blackhoof, and repudiated as a pretender.

Tecumseh was only half himself, and when that half failed, the other half appeared in the person of his Prophet brother, who came here to substitute cruel fanaticism for the lofty oratory of Tecumseh, and sought to accomplish by superstition, what could not be accomplished by honorable means. If Tecumseh was opposed and denounced as a pretender, the Prophet was defeated and denounced as a fiend.

The town being on the old route between Detroit and Cincinnati, it became a stopping place, at which judges and associates rested on their wearisome rides across the wilderness. The seat of a nation, it was regularly visited by the United States Indian agent and numerous traders, hunters, and trappers.

Here Captain Johnny and Brighthorn met their mutual friend Logan, and Col. Johnston sought scouts upon whom he could rely, and in this inseparable trio found men whose fidelity and courage never wavered. To this spot the remains of Logan were brought for burial, and at the approach of the cortege to the council-house Captain Johnny fired a salute of twenty guns in honor of his friend. To the same council came Major Hardin, asking the privilege of taking the children of the dead chief to be educated, in obedience to the request of his lamented friend.

Again to this council spot came Tarhe, the Crane, to consult Blackhoof concerning the plans of Tecumseh, and this council resulted in the opposition of those great chiefs to the plans of the pretender. Then came the mighty but cruel chief Winnemac from his Ottawa towns to conciliate the Shawnees, at whose hands he was destined to fall. Again came the warrior Roundhead to meet the Prophet of supernatural claims and infamous designs. On the spot where was taught the destruction of witches, Isaac Harvey met the Prophet and tribal chiefs, and induced the latter to abandon the former, and denounce his pernicious and diabolical doctrine of witchcraft Here came Col. Johnston to distribute the annuities to the Shawnees, Wyandots, Senecas, Delawares, and Ottawas.

To this council was addressed the letters of President Jefferson, Secretary Cass, Gen. Harrison, and here came the committee of the Richmond annual meeting, to look after the interest of the tribes after the dishonest Gardner had taken advantage of their credulity. Here met the committee appointed by the Richmond annual session, and consulted the dignified and solemn assembly of Shawnees who were represented by Wayweleapy, an orator and warrior, without weakness, and a stranger to fear, but who, when he thought of the wrongs of his people, was overcome by emotion and sank speechless to his seat.

From here proceeded the joint deputation consisting of Henry Harvey and David Baily of the whites, and Wayweleapy, Blackhoof, Spy Buck, and John Perry of the Indians, who, accompanied by Francis Duchonquet and Joseph Parks as interpreters, visited Washington to prevent the consummation of a blasting ffiant wron^.

Again, on account of its importance, it became the seat of a Quaker mission, which labored for the improvement and enlightenment of the nation. It was with these tribes of the Auglaize that Isaac and Henry Harvey devoted a portion of their lives in the almost hopeless effort to amelioriate the condition of a nation against which the hand of civilization was uplifted. The constructiveness of civilization is ever complemented by an initial destructiveness which levels the old to make way for the new. Who will say the excrescences, the stake, witchcraft, polygamy, and torture in all its forms did not first demand the pruning hook of destruction?

These were lopped off', for the constructive force sought the elevation of a nation, and the forerunner, Destruction, found little fit, and so left little of the nation to be improved. Thus the foundation was narrowed ; but the work gained in beauty what it lost in size; for who will sa}^, hundreds free from superstition, with its concomitants, witchcraft and torture, are not preferable to thousands revelling in those horrible barbarities ? The hundreds who can read and write and dispense justice to their fellows, are of vastly more service to the race than the millions who can do none of these. But at this juncture, Avarice stalked upon the ground made sacred by the transformation of a race, and determined to risk all these fruits of toil - all these results of years, in its eager grasp for land. It asked for this without pausing to consider the welfare of the tribe, for avarice knows no sympathy and practices no philanthropy. It urged its demand until no Indian lands remained within the borders of the State. But if avarice stalked forth here with icy brow and chilly touch, the Quaker too was here with tearful eye and sympathetic touch - the guardian of the children of nature. He knew the weakness and wrongs of his wards, and he stood the protector of their rights until humanity came to his relief.

Here, then, where Judge Burnet witnessed the field game of this tribal offspring of an ancient nation, Isaac Harvey witnessed the social advancement, and agent Johnston witnessed the decline of the same traditional tribe. This decline reduced their number from 2000 to 800, while it is to be observed that emigration had no voice in the disintegration. This remnant left this spot, which, notwithstanding its bitter remembrance of wrongs, was still endeared to them by its memories of social improvement and kindly association. The long march was gloomy, for their star had disappeared, but after they reached their destination the cloud lifted and the star was and is still in view.

We turn, then, from a picture of rudeness to one of finish ; from a condition of death to a condition of life, from the despair, wrongs and tearful clouds of the savages, to the hope, rights, and smiling sunbeams of the whites. That was the dispensation of centuries, comprehending years of casts and colors and races; this is the dispensation of years comprehending days of universal brotherhood. We drop no apologetic curtain upon the past, but leaving it in full view, glorify its virtues and denounce its barbarities ; for if under the glorious dawn of a grander day we cannot advance without contamination, or produce a light of sufficient brilliancy to dissipate that darkness, we are unworthy that grander and better age.

Under The Whites

The town then occupies this Indian village site, on part of sections 29 and 32 in township No. 5 south, range 6 east, and begins at a stone at the northeast corner of the Public Square. The Public Square is 282 feet square including the street. All streets are 60 feet, and all alleys K3.V feet wide. The site was platted January 22d and 23d, 1833, by John Jackson, Surveyor of Allen Co., for J. B. Gardner, Peter Aughenbaugh, J. K. Wilds, and Joseph Barnett.

In addition to these men the residents of the town during the year 1833, consisted of Col. Thos. B. Van Home, Landoffice Register; Peter Hammel, a French trader; Oapt. John Elliott, the old Government blacksmith; Jeremiah Ayres, hotel-keeper; Cuinmings, and Mathers, and Samuel Case, merchants; Henry B. Thorne, hotel-keeper; J. C. Bothe, clerk, and James Elliott, farmer. Before proceeding further with the town we will observe that the township of Duchouquet was organized in 1832, and for a period of several years is so associated with the town that both may be viewed at a glance. A list of the officers of the township at that period will reveal many of the earl}' settlers, while a notice of the ballots cast will throw some light on the numerical strength of the new community.

The second annual election held April 7, 1834, resulted in the selection of the following named officers, while the numbers indicate the number of votes cast for each officer elect : -

All elections prior to 1839 were held at the house of Jeremiah Ayres ; that of the year named in the school-house of District No. 1, and those following for mairy years were again held at the house of J. A3Tres. In 1847, the whole vote cast was 159, while the following year showed an increase of 25. Two years later the number rose to 195, which was only a gain of 11, but in 1853 an increase of 25 was shown, which if it spoke of a tardy, at least exhibits a steady increase. Thus

With this glance at the township, we have reached a period at which we will turn from the township, and looking back to the year 1849, devote our attention more particularly to the village.

Sect. I. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That the territory included within the original town plat of the town of Wapakoneta, in the county of Auglaize, and the additions that have been or may hereafter he made thereto, and so much of the territory as is embraced within the south half of section twenty-nine and the north half of section thirty-two, of township number five south, of range number six east, shall be and the same is hereby declared a town corporate with perpetual succession, and as such shall be entitled to all the privileges, and subject to all limitations of" An Act for the regulation of Incorporated Towns," passed February 16, 1839, and the acts amendatory thereto.

Sect. II. That the costs and jail fees of all persons committed by the mayor of said town, or arrested and brought before hearing or trial for any violation of the laws of Ohio, shall be paid in the same manner as such costs are paid in cases of the justices of the peace.

Sect. III. That the town council of the town of Wapakoneta, be and is hereby fully authorized to assume the payment of the remaining: instalments clue the commissioners of Auglaize county, for public building purposes, as provided for in the act organizing said county, passed on the 14th of February, 1848.

Sect. IV. That for the payment of said instalments, the said town council is hereby authorized to issue the bonds of said corporation under the corporate seal thereof, in sums not less than one hundred dollars each, payable at such time and places, and with such rate of interest not exceeding seven per centum per annum, as to said council may seem proper.

Sect. V. Whenever any bonds shall be issued under the provisions of this act, it shall be the duty of said town council to levy a tax sufficient to pay the interest thereon, and for the punctual payment of such principal and interest the whole of the revenues of said town shall stand irrevocabl}' pledged, such tax shall be assessed and collected in the manner provided by law for the assessment and collection of corporation taxes, and the said town council may also for the final redemption of the obligations contracted b}' reason of the powers granted by that act, levy a tax in addition to that provided for by law, to be collected in the same manner.

At the period of the incorporation, the town was still without any material improvement worth the name of enterprise save in the erection of residences and opening of small retail stores and shops. The trade for years was of a purely local character, as the town had no commercial facilities and even had little need of commercial advantages so far as exportation was concerned. The town, like the country by which it was surrounded, was almost a swamp, for even years after the construction of the railroad gravel was as unknown to the streets as brick to the sidewalks and crossings.

The streets consisted more in open public ways than in convenient thoroughfares. Walks and crossings consisted largely of cord wood thrown closely enough to afford a stepping across the mud, except when the blocks were submerged, which was not unfrequent. The whole vicinity of the public square, extending about the court-house and out to Auglaize Street, afforded a swimming pond during the summer, and a skating and coasting park for the bo3'S during the winter. Slowly the village grew until the erection of the county in 1848, when it became the county seat, and perhaps the only enterprise springing directly from this step was the establishment of the "Auglaize Republican," a Democratic paper, by W. P. Andrews in 1849. It was nearly ten years later that trade received an impetus, and enterprise received a stimulus by the construction of the Dayton and Michigan Railroad, which marked the dawn of a new era for the town. Immediately followed the erection of a large grain warehouse by the R. R. Co., which was supplemented by another built in 1860, by J. C. Bothe. Here was the real dawn of business growth and activity, for enterprise followed rapidly in the wake of enterprise, until within a few years the town had attained its present standing. As the period of the growth is thus comparatively recent, a glance at the business interests of to-day will largelj' comprehend the enterprises of the business era. We now turn our attention to the different interests and institutions represented under business interests, educational interests, religious histoiy, and political annals.

Business Interests

In June, 1849, or a little more than a year after the erection of Auglaize County, Geo. W. Andrews sent for his 3'ounger brother, Wm. P. Andrews, to come from their native placein New York to establish a paper at this place. The elder brother furnished the means, and the young man established a Democratic paper under the title of the Auglaize Republican. The following winter the paper was sold to R.J. S. Hollis, who conducted it until the spring of 1851, when he died, and the establishment fell back into the hands of Geo. W. Andrews, who at once offered it for sale to "any sound, reliable, capable Democrat." In June, 1851, R. J. Wright and Henry B. Kelly, then of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, purchased it, and taking possession continued the publication. In 1S54 Mr. Wright sold his interest to xMr. Kelly, who continued the publication uninterruptedly for more than twenty years, while his period of partnership with Mr. Wright made his editorial connection extend over twenty-three years. September 1, 1874, he sold the concern to Messrs. Andrews and MeMurray, the object being to establish the latter, as Mr. Kelly wished to withdraw. As Mr. Andrews only enlisted temporarily, he withdrew at the end of one year by selling his interest to the present proprietor, Mr. C. P. Davis, who had an extended experience in the profession. On Sept. 1, 1876, Mr. Davis purchased the interest of Mr. Me- Murray and became sole proprietor of the establishment, which relation he sustains at this writing. In 1857, after the rise of the Republican party, the title of the paper was changed to The Auglaize County Democrat, under which title it still exists. It is now thirty-one years old, and during those years has not missed a single issue. It has constantly been a Democratic paper, which never supported an irregular candidate, nor wavered from party action from its first issue to its last.

The Bee was founded June 22, 1816, by Frank and Horace Holbrook. Before the expiration of the first year, Horace sold his interest to his brother Frank, by whom it has since been conducted. In politics the Bee is Republican. It is the only Republican paper in the county, and is devoted to the interest of the community, and strives to be a faithful chronicle of local events.

Farmers' Bank, established in 1870, by Samuel Bitler. Makes collections, and otherwise does a full banking business. Samuel Bitler, Cashier; Jas. Wilson, Jr., Asst. Cashier.

Bent Wood Works. M. Brown & Co., Manufacturers of the celebrated Bent Wood Churn, Ash and Rock Maple, Dash Churn, and Elm and White Oak Grain Measures. Established in 1873, by M. Brown, F. J. McFarland, and Joseph Brown, patentees and sole manufacturers of the bent wood churn, of which three sizes and two stjdes of gearing are manufactured, of which the cog-wheel make is the most popular. The works have a capacity of about 7000 churns, and 60,000 measures per annum. The goods have an increasing sale throughout the Northwest.

This company filed a certificate of incorporation Aug. 28, 1872, and was formed for the purpose of manufacturing Spokes, Wheels, and Bent Work. The capital of $50,000 was subscribed by A. Snider, Saml. Bitler, J. H. Timmermeister, A. M. Kuhn, L. N. Blume, R. D. Marshall, Leopold Jacobs, Dittman Fisher, and M. Mouch. During the years 1873 and 1878, inclusive, the Shulte and Starr Patent Wheel, together with a Malleable Band Wood Hub-wheel, was manufactured, but these were superseded by the Sarver Patent and Wrought Iron Banded Wood Hub-wheel. This is destined to become the leading wheel in the country at an early day. Its special feature is the protection of the wood hub by a wrought-iron band, which is compressed into a groove, and is supplied with lips on either side, firmly holding the fibres of wood, and thus preventing the raising or loosening adjacent to the spoke. The business of the company is vested in an executive committee, consisting of Saml. Bitler, J. H. Timmermeister, and A. M. Kuhn. The latter, as Secretary of Board of Directors, is general manager of the works. In 1878, he secured the services of T. J. Reid to act as foreman, to whose care has been entrusted the work of the shop. The work is now confined to the manufacture of wheels, which are sold principally in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. From fifty to seventy-five men are employed at an aggregate salary of about $20,000 per year. J. H. Tim-

J. W. Baker. This factory derives its power from the Smith & Bennett Works, and keeps six men in employment. The manufactures consist of fork, hoe, rake, shovel, and broom handles.

Re Rush Steam-mill. C. Fisher manufactures the popular flour brand, " White Rose." Also dealer in grain, the annual shipments aggregating about one hundred and eighty car loads.

Steuger & Jacobs's Mill and Elevator has a storage capacity of thirty thousand bushels. The annual shipments of grain amount to about two hundred and fifty car loads. Their flour brand is " Extra Choice Family Flour."

Besides these institutions, are many cooper, wagon, blacksmith, and harness shops of greater or less capacity. The retail business interests are represented by many houses, engaged in different lines of trade, and -may be found fairly represented in the business directory of this volume.

Avapakoneta Union School Bdilding

The schools of Wapakoneta date back to the Quaker Mission, established in 1809, but interrupted by the war of 1812. These, as elsewhere stated, were conducted on the Manual Labor System, until their second interruption in 1828, consequent upon the Indian excitement of that year. Still the Quakers remained, and must have operated to some extent until the removal of the Indians in 1832. As elsewhere stated, Isaac and Henry Harvey and their families had charge of this mission and its schools and mills. During the period of their superintendence, there were generally about twenty Shawnee children in attendance at this school. Two years after the removal of the Indians, the white population had somewhat increased, and a school-house was erected between the river and the present site of the depot. This movement was due largely to the enterprise of R. J. Skinner, P. B. Van Horn, and James Elliott. The building was constructed of such soft brick, that after being used for a school-house, town hall, and church for a few years, it had to be abandoned. During 1834-5-6 Mr. Smith taught a winter term in this building. The course of stucty embraced the English Reader, grammar, and arithmetic.

The school was thus continued until 1840, when Dominions Flaitz organized a German school, which he conducted during the following eight years. In 1845 the old French trading house was used for school purposes on account of the unsafe condition of the school building. From 1847-50 the old Methodist church did service as school and court-house. In 1S56 a brick building was erected on the site of the present Union building at a cost of $2517. Two years later the school consisted of three departments. The present system was organized under the Akron law in 1866, and the first board under this organization found it necessary to enlarge the accommodations, and an addition was made to the old building at a cost of $1775. In 1874 the General Assembly granted the board power to issue bonds to the amount of $28,000, for the purpose of erecting a new building. The enumeration had now reached over one thousand. Messrs. Andrews and Mouch received the contract for $27,600, and during 1874-5 the building was pushed to completion. This structure is a commodious and substantial brick, well furnished, and reflects great credit upon the citizens of the town. The schools are now under an efficient management, and the town may boast educational facilities of a very creditable character. The enrolment for this month, March, 1880, is 440, with an average attendance of 373.

The Catholics of the town founded an independent school in 1853, which is still conducted. In 1869 a two-story building was erected at a cost of $4000. The average attendance at this time (1880) is 150.

The present Board of Education of the Public Schools was organized with its present standing in June, 1880, and embraces the following named members: F. C. Layton, Pres. ; L. N. Blume, Clerk; Win. Heinrieh, 1. Lucas, Daniel Richardson, and Charles Winfzer.

It is thus evident the founders of the town appreciated in an unusual degree the importance of education. True, the beginning was amidst slab desks and benches and the applied methods resembled force more than culture, yet we remember that was the physical, as decidedly as this the intellectual period. Let infancy be the apology, and growth the justification, for those rude materials and rude methods furnished a foundation for the higher culture of to-day. Like the schools of the whole country, the past was feeble, the present imperfect, but the future promises that completeness on which rests a golden hope.

English Evangelical Lutheran Church. - The organization of this congregation was effected in 1857 by the adoption of the following constitution: -

Preamble. - Whereas, due notice having been given, a number of members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, whose names are hereunto subscribed, having assembled in convention on the 25th day of December, 1857, in the M. E. Church in Wapakoneta, Auglaize County, Ohio;

And inasmuch, as a church organization, in winch all its members are brought under the same rules of order and government, is considered necessary in the successful promotion of the Redeemer's cause, therefore,

Constitution. - Article I. This church shall be called the " English Evangelical Lutheran Church of Wapakoneta, Ohio," and shall be composed of all whose names are subscribed to this constitution, and who shall hereafter be received by a vote of the council, and according to the usages of our church.

Article II. The council of this church shall be composed of the pastor, two elders, and two deacons, who shall be elected by ballot by the regular communing members, and shall serve for a term of two years; one elder and one deacon to go out of office at the same time.

article III. The election of officers shall be held at the expiration of each year; at which time a public exhibition and settlement of the church expenditures shall be made.

Article IV. The council shall appoint annually, at the first meeting alter their election, a secretary and treasurer out of their own numbei*.

Article V. No person shall be elected as pastor of this church who is not connected with a Synod, in connection with the General Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the United States of North America.

Article VI The formula for the government and discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, as published by the General Synod, is hereby adopted for our government as far as it does not conflict with this constitution.

Article VII. This constitution shall not be altered or enlarged without the consent of two-thirds of the members at any regular church meeting, due notice having been given of the time of meeting, and the amendments or additions proposed.

Since the adoption of this constitution the following additions and amendments have been adopted in accoidance with the provisions of Article VII : -

Resolved, That we regard dancing as a social amusement, or attending dances to connive at them, as contrary to a Christian profession, and against the rules and regulations of this church.

Arttce IX. Adopted Aug. 2, 1868. It shall be the duty of all the members of this congregation to contribute annually to the several objects of benevolence approved by the synods with which the congregation is connected, and it shall be the duty of the officers of this church to see that this article is carried into effect.

Article X. Adopted Dec. 25, 1874. Resolved, That it is the sense of this congregation that its pastor and officers should discountenance all efforts to appeal for pecuniary aid and contributions in our congregation for objects foreign to our work as a church.

Article XL Adopted Dec 25, 1874. Whereas, Certain games, such as billiards and card games, viz., whist, loo, euchre, poker, and the like, are in their tendencies entailing serious evils upon society, therefore, inconsistent with a Christ-like spirit, and incompatible with the dignity and integrity of the Christian character, and therefore contrary to the rules and regulations of this congregation : further

Resolved, That we regard in a similar manner, dealings in lotteries, and the well-known practice of betting, with all other forms of gambling, as contrary to the rules of the congregation.

Amendments. - Article II. Adopted January 1, 1863. The council of this church shall be composed of the pastor, three elders, and three deacons, who shall be elected by ballot by the regular communing: members, and shall serve for a term of two years ; one elder and one deacon to go out of office at the same time.

Article II. Adopted January 14, 1865. The council of this church shall be composed of the pastor, three elders, and three deacons, who shall be elected by ballot by the regular communing members, and shall serve for a term of three years; one elder and one deacon to go out of office at the same time.

Under the original constitution, Rev. A. F. Hills became pastor, and the first board of officers was formed by the election of Joshua Shawber and Geo. H. Dapper, elders, and John Shawber and Geo. Rench, deacons. In April, 1859, a committee on building, consisting of Joshua Shawber, J. H. Seibert, and John Shawber, was appointed, and immediate steps taken toward the erection of a church. The following June the pastor, Rev. A. F. Hills, was removed by death. He had organized the congregation and labored with it during its weakness, and his loss was severely felt. During this infancy of the church, Mr. John Shawber, by his untiring devotion, contributed largely to the advancement of the cause. He contributed freely of his means, and his home became the home of the ministers. To-day he is the same earnest worker. The first sermon was preached in the new building January 28,

1860, by Rev. W. H. Wynn. On the 31st of the same month the church was formally dedicated by Rev. W. F. Conrad, of Springfield, Ohio, who preached the dedicatory sermon, beingassisted in the exercises by Rev. W. H. Wynn and Rev. J. W. Goodlin. The building and ground had cost $3000, and on this occasion $816 was raised, which was sufficient to liquidate the whole building debt. Rev. J. W. Goodlin took charge of the church April 1, 1860, serving as pastor the following eight months, and was succeeded by Rev. VV. C. Barnett, April 1,

1861, who retained the pastorate until March, 1865. The following July Rev. D. W. Smith entered the field, and after serving as supply during the summer, accepted a call to the pastorate, in which capacity he labored until April, 1872, when he resigned to accept a call to Mansfield, Ohio. He was succeeded the same month by Rev. C. S. Ernsberger, who served until April, 1877, when he resigned to accept a call to Lucas, Ohio. The following June Rev. D. A. Kuhn became pastor, and is in charge of the congregation at this writing. Of the ten founders of the church eight are still living, while the four whose names follow are still in connection with the congregation: John Shawber, G. H. Dapper, Mrs. Young {nee Rebecca Shawber), and Rachel Shawber.

Notwithstanding its early weakness, the congregation has steadily grown and added to its strength, until the organization which numbered ten members in 1857 has. now a membership of over 200. That it is to-day a living growth is evidenced by the records of the year ending April, 1880, which show an accession of over forty members.

Present Officers and Appointees. - Pastor, Rev. D. A. Kuhn; elders, John Shawber, Geo. Romshe, and Win. Swink; deacons, A. M. Kuhn, James Swink, and Thomas Elliott. The elders and deacons ex-officio constitute the Board of Trustees. Chorister, Will McMurray; organist, Mollie E. Rogers.

Sabbath School - During the pastorate of Rev. Barnett a school was organized, with John Shawber as superintendent. Since that period it has been fostered with solicitude, until at this writing the school consists of 17 classes, aggregating 190 pupils.

On Sept. 23, 1854, a committee consisting of Rev. W. C Hollyday and Milo Templeton was appointed by the Presbytery of Sidney to visit Wapakoneta, and if deemed advisable to organize a church.

A sermon was preached by Rev. Hollyday, whereupon the following-named persons presented certificates of membership: William Shell, John Musser, Sylvia Bishop, and Margaret Walk up.

James Bishop, J. T. Mitchell, Harriet Mitchell, Jane A. Howe, and Jane S. Kelly were admitted upon examination. Thereupon William Shell was elected and installed ruling elder, and it was resolved that the church be styled the "First Presbyterian Church of Wapakoneta."

On June 23, 1855, John Musser, Mary E. Musser, and Lydia A. Young united with the church, and in 1859 James and Sarah Harper and Charlotte E. Trimble entered into the church fellowship. Aug. 22, 1859, the congregation met in the Lutheran church, and elected John Musser and James Harper ruling elders. By resolution a call was made for the labors of Rev. W. G. Hillman, one-third time at a salary of $200, to be paid quarterly. At a sessional meeting, Feb. 11, 18G0, A. H. Trimble, F. C. Musser, and Jane Elliott were received into the church.

At a called meeting of the congregation April 12, 1860, it was resolved to organize by the adoption of the statutory provision for the "Incorporation of Religious Societies," under the name and style of the " First Presbyterian Church of Wapakoneta."

In June, 1869, Rev. D. W. Cooper was unanimously called to labor one-half time with the congregation. In 1872 he was succeeded by W. E. Hill, who began his ministry for one year. In 1879 Rev. D. W. Cooper took charge of the congregation, in which capacity he still remains.

This body without any particular organization erected a church in 1848, and two years later effected a permanent organization and adopted a constitution. The members under this organization were as follows: John H. Fisher, Paulus Kratt, Heinrich Miiller, Johann Miiller, Johann C. Schubert, Christian Vossler, Wilhelm Taeusch, Adam Engelhaupt, Frederick Eversmann, Frederick Schlenker, Frederick Speith, Geo. Guttekunst, Gotleib Machetanz, Fred. Kohler, Man ford Warren, J. H. Hassenaeur, Christian Koch, Fred. Geyer, and J. F. Katz. Rev. During was pastor in charge, serving until 1855. The board of trustees consisted of J. H. Fisher and Adam Engelhaupt. From 1855 to 1863 Rev. Heinrich Koenig served as pastor, and from the latter date until 1867 Rev. J. Sutter served in this capacity. Prior to 1868 the ministers were supplied by the synod, but at this period the church, largely of a union character, divided; the Reformed members, of whom we write, organizing independently of any synod, under the present title of "The German Evangelical St. Paul's Church." This is the foundation of the present church, while the other branch will be found treated elsewhere under uThe St. Johns" congregation. In 1868 a committee was appointed to secure a new church site, and in May of same year Rev. Heinisch took charge of the congregation.

In April, 1869, it was determined to build a church, and a committee, consisting of J. H. Timmerrneister, Win. Taeusch, and Chas. Wintzer, was appointed on subscriptions. The committee on building consisted of J. H. Timmerrneister, Win. Heinrich, and H. Miller. The first action was the erection of a parsonage the same year. In September, 1870, Rev. Rentzsch was elected pastor, and the following year the old building was sold, and a new one erected at a cost of about $8000. The lot was purchased for $500, and after the erection of the church the ladies of the congregation presented an organ at a cost of $1350. In 1873 Rev. Adolph Thomas was elected pastor, and two years later was succeeded 1)3' Ullrich Thomas, wdio was succeeded in 1876 by Rev. Zeinecke. The present pastor, Rev. Burkhardt, took charge of the congregation in 1878. In September, 1876, the church united with the Protestant Synod of the West, with which it is still associated. The present constitution was adopted June 10, 1877, and properly recorded. The membership on roll at present amounts to eight}', the organization is free from debt, and in a prosperous condition.

The present officers are as follows: J. H. Timmerrneister, President; Win. Heinrich, Secretary; Win. Taeusch, Treasurer ; Gotfreid Weber, Win. Heinrich, Adam Engelhaupt, Trustees.

Immediately upon the settlement of the town, the Methodists formed a class, ami in 1834 erected their first church building. Between 1837 and 1849 this building was used largely for school purposes, and after the latter date it also served as a court-house for a few years. At this time the following named members constituted the congregation : Jas. Elliott and family, Robt. McCullough and wife, Jos. Milnor and wife, Abraham Alspaugh and wife, Martin Barr, and Mr. Gray. The church continued in a feeble condition until 1861, when, under the ministration of Rev. L. A. Belt, a new growth was infused, and the erection of a new building undertaken.

Even tlien the congregation only numbered nineteen. It remained largely in this weak condition until 18*72, when the active labors of Rev. Cozier added to its numerical strength. Again it remained conservative, only maintaining its old status until the present year, when, under the ministration of Rev. Hunter, the church accessions had increased the membership to fifty in good standing and thirty-two on probation. The church is thus in a better condition financially and numerically than at any past period of its history. The boards of trustees, stewards, and class leaders are all full; a flourishing Sunday-school is sustained, and building improvements are contemplated for the coming season.

This church was organized about thirty years since, the -building then occupying a part of the present site of the Union School building. This building was purchased by 0. T. Dieker, who removed it in 1874 and converted it into a dwelling. A difficult}7 arose in 1867, and Prof. Lehman, President of the Ohio Synod, reorganized with a portion of the members, and in 187S the congregation purchased an unfinished building on Auglaize Street, of C. P. Davis and others, by whom it was undertaken under serious difficulties, for English Lutheran services. For some unknown cause, it was not completed, and was thus purchased by the St. Johns congregation. The first pastor was Rev. G. E. Buchbalz, whose services extended from 1867 to 1871. At the latter date Rev. F. Wendt took charge, and labored in this capacity until 1877, when the present pastor, Rev. C. Benzin, was called to the pulpit. The congregation is now in a prosperous condition, with its property free from incumbrance.

Adherents of this church took a prominent part in the settlement of this county. Francis Duchouquet, an interpreter, Peter Hammel, a French trader, and F. J. Stallo, the founder of Minster, were all Catholics. So it may be said of all the settlers and accessions to Minster, for all were German Catholics. Still, at that period no priest was found within a radius of fifty miles to minister to these pioneers. This want was supplied in 1831. Prof. Horstman, of Glandorf, Germany, of fine learning, and a physician as well as priest, absolved the ties of friendship, embarked for America in 1831, and made

Glandorf, near Ottawa, Putnam County, the centre of his missionary field. In his zeal, he traversed several counties, and came to Minster in 1832. His arrival there marks the real birth of Catholicity in Auglaize County. The services of the church were held for some time in the house of Mr. Voltke, which still stands opposite the drug store of Dr. Schemeider. The visits of Prof. Horstman were only monthly; but in 1832 a log church was built at his instance and under his direction. This building was 40 x 60 feet and sixteen logs in height, and served the purpose of the congregation for several years. The simple habits of Prof. Horstman enabled him to conform to the inconveniences of frontier life. His travels over his vast field of labor were all performed on foot, and all the Catholics within a distance of fifteen miles came to Minster to worship. Among the first settlers we find the names of Voltke, Messe, Kruse, Wendeln, Drees, and Stiive. In 1832 and 1833 the cholera scourge nearly depopulated the little village of Minster, and left but few of the first congregation. Shortly after the building of the first church a school-house was erected, in which Hon. Boihmer, now of Fort Jennings, was the first teacher. After the death of Prof. Horstman, we find the names of Younker, Brand, Partels, Herzog, and Navarron officiating in the old log church which was used by the congregation until i848, when the present church, 120x60 feet was built, at a costof $15,000. Rev. John Vanden Brook (C. PP. S.) was pastor at this time. In 1875 an addition of twenty feet was made to the church, and two spires erected, 190 feet in height, which, with other repairs, aggregated a cost of $15,000. The present pastor is Veiy Rev. A. Kunkler, C. PP. S. In 1867 a commodious school building was erected at a cost of $7000. For the convenience of distant members, a church was built three miles southeast of Minster in 1852, which was supplanted in 1878 by a fine brick church, at a cost of $6500. This church is known as Egypt. The Minster congregation numbers 342 families, and those of Egypt about forty. At the latter place the following pastors have officiated: Rev. S. Wittmer, B. Birnhaum, and the present pastor, Rev. John Vanden Brook. In 1872 a small brick church was built in Bremen at a cost of $3000, of which more than two-thirds was contributed by non-Catholics of the town. About twelve families worship here, attended by Rev. Ig. Selb, assistant priest of Minster.

Wapakjneta and Petersburg. - Prof. Horstman, when visiting Minster, would usually stop several days at these points and provide for the spiritual wants of the Catholics of the community. In 1836 a log church 40x30 feet was built at Petersburg and blessed by that missionary. In WapMkoneta he celebrated mass in private families until 1839, when a small frame church was built on the corner of Pearl and Blackhoof Streets, to which an addition was afterward built. Still the building proved too small for the growing congregation, and in 1853 it was determined to erect a brick church on the present site of the school building. Accordingly a contract was formed with Mr. John C. Bothe to build a church 80x45 feet for $8400. The payment was to be made by instalments as the building progressed, but the plan proved a stumblingblock to the congregation. Mr. Bothe was accused of a violation of contract, and by an order of the Most Rev. Archbishop was stopped in his work. Suit was instituted for damages against the church, and, after some years of litigation, a settlement was effected at the cost of about $11,000 by the congregation, and still they had no house of worship.

Rev. George Boehne Heizog and different other priests of the congregation of the Precious Blood (C. PP. S.) visited the congregation at intervals, the first regular priest being Rev. Martin L. Bobst. He remained mostly at Petersburg, where he died in October, 1848. Revs. D. M. Winands, Schafroth, and Muckerheide attended the congregation for some time. The latter resided in Freyburg, where a neat church had been built in 1850. Disappointed, but not discouraged, the Wapakoneta congregation, in 1857, began the erection of a fine church, 120 by 50 feet, on the corner of Pearl and Perry Streets. The building was completed the following year, and dedicated in honor of St. Joseph. Rev. And. Herbstrit was pastor at that time. During the year it was supplied with four bells, with an aggregate weight of 4414 pounds. These complete, with hangings, cost $1678.90. It is the custom of Catholics to deed all church property in trust to the bishop of the diocese; but as the St. Joseph Church was indebted to the amount of $20,000, the Most Rev. Archbishop refused to accept a deed, as he was unwilling to be responsible for the debt. To-day this proves to the advantage of the church, for the archbishop's assignee cannot trouble this property. We find among the Catholics of Wapakoneta, in 1834, J. Keller, M. Seifert, J. Kininger, J. Sabin, M. Landkammer, P. Goetz, D. Schmidt, And. Werst, Mosler, and Weimert.

Although burdened with a heavy debt the congregation was not satisfied with a church alone, for knowing the importance of religious instruction, they founded a school in 1853, which was conducted in various rooms until a few years later a frame building was secured, which now stands nearly opposite the present church. In 1869 a two-story brick school was erected at a cost of about $4000, and instruction is imparted in both English and German. This church, consisting of about 180 families, has reduced the debt to less than $6000, besides spending several hundreds of dollars for decorative purposes. In 1879 a beautiful and durable pipe organ was secured at a cost of $1975. The generosity of Catholics and non-Catholics of the town enabled them to pay for this in cash. Priests of the C. PP. S. attended this church since 1857. Among these may be mentioned the present bishop of Ft. Wayne, Rev. Dwenger, X. Griesmeyer, Ch. French, M. Graf, and since July, 1875, the present pastor loci, Rev. Francis Nigsch.

In 1833 John Ruppert entered a half section of land in- Pusheta township, and on this land was erected the first church of Petersburg, which was dedicated in honor of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Forty acres of land, still the property of the congregation, was laid out as a town site in 1852, but the lots never sold.

Among the early settlers here were Andreas Voll, who died of the cholera in 1836; And. Seller; J. Hemmert; and And. Nuss. This congregation was weakened considerably in 1868 by many members uniting with the Botkins congregation. This almost caused the abandonment of the Petersburg church, but the following year Messrs. J Hemmert, S. and J. Dingelman, A. Nuss, M. Midler, J. Koenig, M. Warmuth, and others, resolved to build a brick church on the Sidney pike, near the county line. Accordingly, a building was erected, 55 by 35 feet, for about $3000, but no priest has charge, and so some of the members attend services at Fre}7burg and others at Botkins.

Freyburg. - The first settlers of this congregation were Sam Craft, 1828; George Wiss and G. Seiter, 1833; Simon Dresher and J. B. Kath, 1834 ; Bush and Mippgen, 1835; M. and G. Linder, J. Sellenger, A. Schaub, V. Fischer, Guttman and Weiman. These first attended at Wapakoneta and Petersburg during the visits of Prof. Horstman. For a time also they met at the houses of Messrs. Bush and Craft for services. Jos. Flick and G Seiter laid out the town of Freyburg in 1848, and immediately a church was commenced, 80 by 43 feet, which was completed in 1850. At this time the congregation consisted of about thirty families. The church was served by Revs. Winands, Mukerheide, Volm, and some priests of the C. PP. S., particularly Rev. M. Kreusch ; after them by Backhaus, Goebels, and during the last eight years Rev. Henry Daniel has labored with success. In 1877 he built

St. Marys. - We find Charles Murray, one of the original proprietors of the town, was the first Catholic resident of the place. Most of the old traders were French Catholics, as were also many of the raftsmen who labored between St. Marys and Ft. Wayne. Mr. Murray acted as leader of meetings as no priests were in reach. About 1825 a priest was passing this place on a missionary tour, and was taken suddenly ill. Here he remained for a time and died, and was buried by Mr. Murray. Thos. Stone came here in 1836, and from this period dates the origin of the Catholic church. Most of the canal laborers were Catholics, and a shanty on the bank of the reservoir was used for the celebration of mass. These ceremonies were conducted b}r a French priest from Dayton, Tenpont. In 1840 Archbishop Pureed came from Cincinnati to St. Marys, and remained over night with Mr. Black. The first church was built under the direction of Rev. A. Kunkler, in 1854. In 1867 a brick church was erected on Spring Street, by Rev. Dwenger, present bishop of Ft. Wa}-ne. The building cost about $1200. The congregation consists of about seventy families, and was attended until 1877 by priests of the C. PP. S., among whom were J. Dwenger, P. Rist, M. Kenk, F. Nigsch, A. Guggenberger, and F. Schalk ; and since 1877 by Rev. Joseph Lutz.

Glynwood. - Irish Catholics built a frame church in Moulton township, on the land of J. L. McFarland, in 1861, under the direction of Rev. P. Henneberry. The first members were J. L. McFarland, John Naughton, Anton Bailey, and the three Cogan brothers - Thomas, John, and Patrick. The congregation was attended by the priest of St. Marys until 1877, but at present from Wapakoneta by Rev. S. Kunkler.

These facts illustrate to some extent the important part the Catholics have performed in the settlement and improvement of the county. From its infancy they have contributed to the material development of the county; and though some may have left the fold of the Church, and others right indifferent as to their duties, the Church still sustains the hope that it will grow in the future as it has in the past.

Political

Cridersville was organized in 1856 by Ephraim C rider. The first store was owned by John Mumaw abont the date of organization. The second place of business was a General Supply Store, kept by James McMillin. Then came in succession John Weiser and N. A. Murdock, drygoods merchants.

At this writing there are two drygoods and general supply stores, two groceries, and one furniture store, one hotel, one steam grist mill, one steam saw mill, one grain warehouse, two blacksmith shops, one harness, and one shoe shop. Prior to the last eight years the number of stores at once was limited to a single one.

Biographical

Dr. G. W. Holbrook is justly considered one of the pioneers and builders of Auglaize County and Wapakoneta, having settled here early in the spring of lv34. He was born in Palmyra, Ontario Co., New York, Sept. 12, 1808, in that portion of said county bordering on Lake Ontario which subsequently constituted Wayne County. At the age of eighteen he abandoned home and commenced the study of medicine and surgery in the office of Dr. Win. Robinson, of Palmyra, one of the most distinguished physicians and surgeons in western New York. After pursuing the usual four years' course of study, attending the lectures at the medical department of the University, he graduated in 1831, receiving the medical degree from the Regents of the University of New York. In the autumn of 1832 he came to Ohio and commenced the practice of his profession at Lockbonrne, Franklin County, where he remained a short time, but after travelling over most of the Western States he finally located at Wapakoneta, where he still resides. At that period there were but about 150 inhabitants in the town. The day after his arrival he entered his professional career, having been called to visit the family of John Tam, who owned and lived on the half section of land of which a part now constitutes the land of Milton Tam. Here he continued the practice of his profession about twenty years, when he retired, and turned over his office, library, instruments, and medicines to Dr. J. H. Nichols, whom he had adopted when a boy of fourteen, and gave him his education, and finally his practice. Dr. Holbrook has ever been public spirited, and identified himself with all improvements for the benefit of town or county. He first suggested the erection of Auglaize County, having originated and mapped it out in 1846, when he submitted the map to Col. Van Home, Robert J. Skinner, and others. Col. Van Home pronounced the project "visionary," but added, "there is no telling what this Yankee Doctor may accomplish!" The Doctor did accomplish much, and the erection of the county may, perhaps, be considered the most important achievement of his life. This work is a monument to his energy and enterprise, as is shown by the effort he put forth in this project. He attended the sessions of the Oliio Legislature while the bill for the erection of the count}r was under consideration. In the session of 1846 the bill passed the House, but failed in the Senate; the next year it failed, but Feb 13, 1848, the bill passed and Auglaize County took a place on the State map. The Doctor sacrificed his personal and family interests by this expenditure of time and money, for the journals of the Ohio Legislature show he was in Columbus devoting his whole energy to this undertaking during the sessions of 1846, 7, and 8. The journals also show that at one time he was arrested on a charge of bribing a member of the House, but at the trial by the House he was honorably acquitted and fully vindicated. The same Legislature gave him a hearty endorsement by electing him to the office of Associate Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, which position he retained until the office was superseded by that of the Probate Court under the new Constitution. He has been an active worker in behalf of all improvements, and especially has he labored for railroads through the county. The Ohio and Penna. R. R. bill was even engrossed, to pass through Kenton, Wapakoneta, and St. Marys, and thence toward Chicago; but the citizens of St. Marys opposed the road ; it was defeated, and running north of the county, passed through Lima. In this enterprise our subject was deeply inte- rested. At that time the Charter Act of the Dayton and Michigan R. R. was before the Legislature. The charter only called for a road terminating at Sidney, and the Doctor wrote to Senator Myers and others of Toledo, to have it taken up and chartered through to Toledo. Myers in his letter of thanks said the reason he had not inserted in the charter the clause " passing through to Toledo" was " that he thought the country too new to undertake an enterprise of such magnitude." The Doctor labored and contributed largely of his means to make this enterprise a success, and acting with Col. Andrews as agents, they raised about $75,000 toward the construction of the road. The Company took property on stock subscription, and he deeded several improved lots, for one of which he received $800 in stock, while in a short time the same property sold for $2000. The other property advanced in the same ratio. The Doctor became one of the directors of the road, and at one time held about $10,000 in stock, which he was afterward compelled to sell at from fifteen to twenty cents on the dollar. The success of this railroad project has been the cause of the growth of the town. This untiring zeal in the advancement of the county has caused our subject to be considered one of the most enterprising and public-spirited of our citizens.

Gen. Geo. W. Andrews was born in Medina, Orleans County, New York, Sept. 1, 1825. He is the son of Joel and Anne (Lewis) Andrews. His father was a Quaker, and was engaged in agricultural pursuits. His grandfather, on the maternal side, John Lewis, was a major in the Revolutionaiy army, and was a descendant of the Lewis family of Rhode Island, who, as Baptists, took a prominent part in the religious controversies of the Roger Williams period. The earlier culture of the General was received at the Quaker institution, "Nine Partners' College," in Duchess Count}', New York, and in Oberlin University, of Ohio. At the age of eighteen, he began the study of law at Granville, Licking County, and in 1845 was admitted to the bar at Norwalk, Huron County, Ohio. He subsequently entered the practice of his profession at Lima, Allen County, and was at once elected prosecuting attorney. During his stay of three years at this place, he established and edited the "Lima Argus" with marked abilit}-. In 1848, he came to Wapakoneta, and established the " Auglaize Republican.1'' The same year he was elected prosecuting attorney, and was re-elected in 1850. In 1856, he was elected to the lower branch of the Legislature, and was re-elected in 1858 and 1860. In 1861, at the request of Governor Dennison, he left the Legislature, and returned home, and within two days raised a company of volunteers, and entered the service with the commission of captain. He was afterward successively promoted to the rank of major, lieutenant-colonel, colonel, and brevet brigadier-general. In 1864 he left the service, alter an honorable career as a soldier, and resumed the practice of his profession. In 1873 he was elected to the State Senate, and upon the organization was made chairman of the committees on "Judiciary" and on "Military Affairs," and a member of the committees on "Public Works," "Fees and Salaries," "Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home," and "Privileges and Elections." He has been a distinguished member of the bar, and has conducted to successful issues many important cases, while, as an official, he has a record free from blemish; having often, under difficult circumstances, labored successfully for the interests of his constituency, and the welfare of the general community. In 1875 he was re-elected to the Senate. He is still engaged in the practice of his profession at Wapakoneta, Ohio.

C. P. Davis was born in Dayton, Ohio, in 1833. His father was a prominent Democrat in that district, of which this county was then a part. He was an elector on the Democratic Presidential ticket of 1840. Our subject's first instruction in the printing business was received in the Empire office in Dayton, Ohio, which he entered May 1, 1846. Commencing at the bottom of the ladder, as devil, he continued through 1849 and 1850, and completed his course in James's book establishment iu Cincinnati. He next printed the Union County Tribune for the proprietor, Hon. C. S. Hamilton, then a member of the Ohio Constitutional Convention. Leaving Marysville, we next find him at his old home at Dayton, engaged with two other printers in editing and publishing the Daily City Item, a paper which earned such popularity that it acquired the largest circulation of the city papers, which gave it the P. O. advertising. Selling out in 1852, he shortly afterward went to St. Marys, this county, and engaged in the grocery and confectionery business, but withdrew in 1854, and crossed the plains to California, spending about five months on the way. Here he tried his luck in the mines, but found it less profitable than printing. After a year or so, he, with a junior partner, purchased the Mariposa Democrat. In 1858 he sold out to his partner and returned to Ohio by the way of the Isthmus. In the winter of 1858 he became manager of the Dayton Daily Empire, with which he was connected until Nov. 1860. In 1859 lie married a daughter of Anthony Dieker, of Wapakoneta, Ohio. After severing his connection with the Empire, he came to Wapakoneta, with the expectation of purchasing the Democrat, but failing in this, he engaged in the hardware business, and built up a large and growing trade. In 1869, he was elected clerk of the courts, on the Democratic ticket, and served nine years and three months, having received the third-term nomination without opposition. In 1875, he purchased a half interest in the Democrat, and in 1876, he purchased the interest of his partner, the late Robert McMurray.

Judge Hamaker was born in Dauphin Co., Pa., June 6, 1813. He remained at home, working on the farm until 18 years of age, when he went to learn the milling trade, and settled in Da}'ton, Ohio, in 18 i9, where he taught school several terms. In 1840 he married Miss Susan Randall, of Dayton, Ohio. He was candidate for Auditor of Montgomery Co. in 1850, when C. L. Vallandigham was candidate for the Legislature from the same county. At the election both were defeated, and the next year Mr. H. settled in St. Mary's, this count}r, where he taught school, and became deputy collector on the canal. In 1866 he was elected Probate Judge, in which office he served twelve years. At the April election of 1880, he was elected a justice of the peace, and Mayor of the village of Wapakoneta, where he resided since his election as Probate Judge.

O. T. Dieker was born in Prussia June 2, 1827, and came with his parents to Wapakoneta when eleven years of age. Here he learned the tanner trade with his father, and worked at this business about six years, when he went to New Bremen and accepted a clerkship. This position he held about three years, when he took charge of a boat, which he managed until 1848, when he returned to Wapakoneta and entered the mercantile business, in which he is still engaged.- He was also in the livery business from 1864 to 1880. He has been township treasurer two terms, and has served as councilman several years.

Justus Romshe came from German}- to this township in 1838, and purchased seventy -five acres of land from J. C. Bothe for $100. After the payment of the land he had but $15 left as his 3rear's capital. He first secured work on the canal at Troy, and continued at this work while the canal was constructing through this county. Mrs. Romshe did a large portion of the farm work at home, often carrying grain to the Wapakoneta mills upon her head. She met her death Sept. 1, 1$54, by falling from a load of ashes on the home farm. Mr. Romshe died Oct. 12, 1879.

George Romshe, son of the above, was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, Nov. 2, 1827, and came with his parents to this township. He and a sister, who lives at Springfield, are the only survivors of his father's family. He now occu- pies the old homestead of his father. In 1850 he married Mary McClintock, who came from Ireland in 1848. Mr. Romshe's first purchase of land consisted of twenty acres, which he bought in 1852 from John Everett for $120. His second piece was also twenty acres, purchased in 1856. Today he and his children represent six hundred and forty acres in Duchouquet and Logan townships, all joining, although not in a regular body. He was elected township trustee in 1879, and re-elected in 1880. His family consisted of ten children, of whom five sons and one daughter are still living.

G. W. McClintock was born in Ireland Feb. 28, 1821, and at the age of ten years came with his parents to New Brunswick. Here he lived several years, and married Miss Margaret Steen, when in 1842 he came to Miami County, Ohio. Here he remained until 1848, when he moved to this county, and located on the farm he now occupies. Here he built a cabin in the timber, and commenced clearing the land. In 1851 his wife died, leaving six small children. Two years later he married Mrs. Elizabeth Barr, by whom he had eight children. Of the fourteen children ten are still living, of whom all are married except two sons and one daughter.

Adam Winemiller was born in Germany in 1196, and came to the United States in 1832, locating first in Butler County, Ohio, where he remained until he came to this county. He reared a family of seven children. George, the second son, is now living on the old homestead. Mr. Winemiller died in 1863.

Andrew Freyman, a son of John M. Freyman, came with his father to this township in 1833. He was then fourteen years of age, and is still living on the old homestead. He relates the following incident touching his father. Wishing to secure assistance to raise a cabin, he went out to call upon his neighbors, and becoming lost he wandered about till dark, when he saw a light which guided him to the house of Mr. Bodkin, where Bodkin Station now stands. He further relates that he and his sister - now Mrs. Wintzer - would chop wood and clear land as successfully as two men.