Crawford County, Ohio - The whole text, 1902 (part 22 of 22)

Richard W. Cahill, the father of our subject, was a distinguished citizen of Crawford count}-. He was born in Derby township, Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, on March 0, 1801, and was of Scotch-Irish descent. He was a son of Abram and Nancy ( Wallace) Cahill. His father was an officer in the state militia, and at one time had charge of all of the forces in western Pennsylvania. In 1818 Richard W. Cahill removed with his parents to Wayne county, Ohio, in 1827 removed to Crawford county and later purchased the farm which our subject now occupies. In 1829 he married Miss Eliza Cummins, who died in 1843. To this union were born two children: Abraham, who became a distinguished lawyer of the Dayton, Ohio, bar ; and David C, now a practicing attorney of Bucyrus, Ohio. In 1844 he was married to Miss Catherine Richards. In 1841 Mr. Cahill was elected to the state legislature and was re-elected in 1842 and in 1843, serving" his constitutency in an admirable, non-partisan mannar. In 1850 he was elected a member of the Ohio constitutional convention, serving with distinction as a member of that body, In all his career, both public and private, the sympathies of Richard W. Car ill were always with the great masses of the common people, and he was at ail times an uncompromising foe of corporations. Mr. Cahill became a large land owner before his death, which took place on October 2, 1886. His home farm consisted of one hundred and sixty acres, while he also owned two hundred acres east of the town of DeKalb, one hundred and twenty acres in Auburn township, which is now the property of B. F. Lash, and other holdings. He was a power in the Democratic party and held many of the township offices besides his public service in the legislature and constitutional convention. He was known as a consistent Christian gentleman, and his declining years were comforted by the affection of all who knew him.

The mother of our subject was born in 1822, in Vernon township, which is now Jefferson township, a daughter of James Richards, who was the second settler in the township, appearing here in 1821. He was the first blacksmith in the locality, and shortly after the erection of his cabin built a small roundlog shop. He made cow bells, prepared iron points for plows, hammered out and tempered axes, obtaining his supplies of iron from Sandusky City. Mr. Richards found much to do in repairing settlers' wagons that had become disordered in the long journey from the east. At this date there were but two roads in the township. The Columbus and Sandusky road, running north and south through the township, had been first cut out about the year 1818, and was simply a blazed path through the forest, from which undergrowth and fallen trees had been removed. The death of the mother of our subject was on February 28, 1898.

John C. Cahill, whose successful farming operations, in connection with his prominent identification with all progressive movements in the township, has became an important factor in this part of Craword county, was reared on his father's farm. His primary education wTas completed in the public schools, from which he graduated into the normal college, at Ada, with a view of still pursuing higher branches in a university. However, his father was alone on the farm and needed his assistance, and in 1880 our subject returned to the old home and took charge of the operations there. His parents experienced tender care as long as they lived, and after the death of his father he purchased the interest of the other heirs and now owns the old Cahill farm, with the exception of two small portions. Mr. Cahill is a thoroughly honorable man, liberal with his employes and generous of heart - destitution and poverty never appealing to him in vain. Modest and unassuming in manner, yet when drawn out in conversation his opinions are sound and valuable upon all -questions which come under his observation. He is a scientific farmer, thoroughly up-to-date and manages his agricultural operations on the same basis that he would conduct any other business. Hence he has been unusually -successful and many of his neighbors are inclined to follow his methods.

Mr. Cahill was married in 1887, to Miss Mary Weirich, who was a native of Wayne county, Ohio, a daughter of Christian and Addie (Miller) Weirich, both of whom are now deceased. To our subject and wife have been born three children, as follows: Allen W.3 John R. and Edith, deceased. In politics he has been a life-long- Democrat, and has been honored by his fellow citizens by election to many of the responsible offices of the township. For a considerable period he served as township trustee. At the present time he is serving- his second term as clerk of the township, his efficiency and honesty making him one of the most highly esteemed officials in the count}'. Airs. Cahill is a consistent member of the United Presbyterian church, and our subject is usually an attendant upon the services there with Airs. Cahill. For very many years the family name has been one which has commanded respect in Crawford county, and our subject is a worthy representative of it.

Silas Gundrum

Silas Gundrum, a representative citizen and leading farmer of Crawford county, was born in Berks count}-, Pennsylvania, on the 14th of January, 1830, a son of John and Charlotte ( Fogle) Gundrum. The father was also a native of the Keystone state, his birth occurring about 1797, and his father came from the fatherland to the United States. John Gundrum learned the blacksmith's trade early in life, but later devoted his time and attention to agricultural pursuits. About 1834 he came to Crawford county, Ohio, and about six months later located in Bucyrus township, where he purchased the farm of eighty acres on which our subject now resides. This place was then covered with native timber with the exception of about three acres, which had been cleared by a Mr. Cox, the former owner, and to this tract the father afterward added another eighty acres adjoining- the place on the south and which is now owned by Lewis Heller. Thus he became the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land, which he improved and placed under a fine state of cultivation, and he became known as one of the substantial and reliable citizens O'f the township. He passed to his final reward in 1862. He was an active supporter of the Democratic ticket and was a stanch member of the Lutheran church. His wife survived him but a few months, when she, too, passed away in death. Mr. and Mrs. Gundrum became the parents of sixteen children, seven of whom still survive, namely : Henry, a resident of Richland county, Ohio ; Pasetta, wife of Arthur Cleland, of this county; Sarah, the wife of Isaac Cole, of Richland county, Ohio; Lovina. wife of Henry Cloyd, of Missouri; Michael,.

The latter was reared to manhood in the place of his nativity, there acquiring a limited education in the old pioneer log school house of his neighborhood. In 1856 he came to Bucyrus, Ohio, and learned the cabinet-maker's trade, but after two years spent in the city his father purchased his eighty-acre tract and, wishing the son to assist him in its cultivation, the latter located on that place, and in i860 he and his brother Henry took charge of the farm, conducting the same on the shares. After the father's death Silas purchased the home farm and the brother became the owner of the adjoining eighty acres. On this place our subject has ever since continued to make his home,, and his efforts in his chosen vocation have been attended with a high and well merited degree of success. His fields are under a fine state of cultivation, everything about the place being neat and thrifty in its appearance, and its owner stands among the foremost agriculturists of Crawford county.

On the 27th of June, 1861, Mr. Gundrum was united in marriage to Miss Lovina Buck, a native of Licking count}-, Ohio, and a daughter of John Buck. . Unto this union have been born eight children, as follows: John, a resident of Polk township, Crawford county; William, at home; Anna, deceased; Joseph, who resides in Sandusky township, this county; Margaret, the wife of Albert Heller, of Sandusky township; Silas and Emma, twins, and both now deceased; and Frank, who is still under the parental roof. Mr. Gundrum is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Democracy and is also< a zealous member of the United Brethren church.

William Sherman Nye

William Sherman Nye, one of the leading business men and agriculturists of Crawford county, is a native son of the Buckeye state, his birth having occurred in Cranberry township, Crawford county, on the 9th of September, 1865. He is a son of Jonathan and Lovina (Immel) Nye. The father was born in Medina county, Ohio, on the 2d of March, 1823, his parents being Jonathan and Sabrina (Briggs) Nye. Jonathan Nye, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Massachusetts, in 1770, and the father, also named Jonathan, was a well known resident of Massachusetts. The latter was a son of Jonathan Nye, who was engaged in whale fishing, following that dangerous occupation for many years.

his parents' home, receiving his education in the common schools of the neighborhood. After his marriage he engaged in farming pursuits on his own account, and a few years afterward he removed to the state of New York, where his wife died. He afterward married again, his second union being with Sabrina Briggs, the grandmother of our subject. By his first marriage he had seven children, all of whom are now deceased. Soon after his second marriage he came to Ohio, locating in Medina county, where he entered one hundred and sixty acres of forest land, on which he erected a log cabin. As the years passed he cleared his land, there remaining until 1825, when he sold that property and came to Crawford county, here entering one hundred and sixty acres of forest land near what is now North Robinson. He cleared eighty acres of his land, giving the remaining eighty acres to two of his sons, and there he spent his remaining days, passing away in 1849. In 1853 his widow was also called to the home beyond, and at her death the farm passed into possession of Jonathan and Lorenzo Nye. In 1857 the brothers sold the place and came to Cranberry township, the former purchasing the farm which he yet owns, consisting of eighty acres, while Lorenzo became the owner of ninetv-tive acres just across the road from his brother. Lorenzo* Nye was married, and his brother Jonathan boarded with him until his marriage, on the 2 1st of April, 1861, to Miss Lovina Immel, who was a native of Cranberry township, her birth having occurred on the farm adjoining that which belongs to her husband, and was a daughter of Philip Immel, one of the early pioneers of this township. He emigrated from Pennsylvania, his native state, his parents having been of Pennsylvania Dutch descent. After his marriage Philip Immel emigrated with his bride to the Buckeye state, making the journey by wagons, and after his arrival in Crawford county he entered eighty acres of land in Cranberry township, the deed being' signed by Andrew Jackson. He erected a log cabin, and blankets were hung' up for doors and to keep out the wolves. As time passed he cleared his farm and placed his fields under a fine state of cultivation, and there he spent his remaining days, his death occurring in 1885.

After his marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Nye began life in an old log cabin on his father's farm, and through this rude structure the wind whistled and the rain and snow were blown through the crevices, it being almost impossible in severe weather to keep from freezing to death. For five years they remained in that primitive dwelling, and in 1866 they erected their pleasant and commodious dwelling", where they are now enjoying the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. Six children blessed their union, three of whom still survive, namely: William Sherman, whose name introduces this review; Albert Sheridan, an agriculturist of Cranberry township; and Eli Liberty, who is still at home. The father of these children is a Republican in his political views, and during the Civil war was a stanch abolitionist. Although not a member of any religious denomination his views are in harmony with the Methodist doctrine, and he has always given liberally of his time 'and means to its support. His life has been crowned with success, and he now enjoys the respect and esteem of all with whom he has become acquainted.

William Sherman Nye, the immediate subject of this review, was reared to manhood under the parental roof, and his educational advantages were those afforded by the common schools of his locality, and the G. W. Michael Business College, of Delaware, where he prepared himself for the teacher's profession. After receiving his certificate he had two different schools tendered him, but that occupation did not prove congenial to his tastes, and he accordingly abandoned all thought of becoming a teacher. At the early age of fourteen years he began working on the farm, and from that time on the major portion of its work fell upon his young shoulders. When eighteen years of age he received his share of the crops, and for five years full. .wing his marriage he remained on the home farm, after which, in the spring of 1897, he purchased a?d removed to the place which he now occupies, consisting of eighty acres. He has placed his fields under a high state of cultivation, which annually yield to him golden returns, and he now ranks high among the influential and prominent agriculturists and swine-breeders of Crawford county.

On the 29th of November, 1891, Mr. Nye was united in marriage with Miss Zella M. Springer, a native of Cranberry township, and a daughter of S. S. Springer, now deceased. Two children have graced this marriage, Bertha L. and Willis L. In political matters Mr. Nye affiliates with the Republican party, but the honors or emoluments of office have never had an attraction for him, although he is a public-spirited and loyal citizen. He is well and favorably known in the community in which he resides, and numbers its best residents among his warmest and most confidential friends.

John Harkenrider

John Harkenrider is a well known representative of the industrial interests of Crestline, being foreman in the car shops of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, located in this place. He was born in Allen county, Indiana, August 23, 1852, and is of German lineage. His father, Henry Harkenrider,.

was a native of Germany, and after attaining man's estate was there married to Margaret Grnsh, who was also born in the same country. Believing that they might have better opportunities in the new world, they bade adieu to the fatherland, crossed the Atlantic and took up their abode near Fort Wayne, Indiana, where the father purchased a farm. For forty years he resided in Pleasant township, Allen county, and there died at about the age of sixty-live years. His widow still survives him, at the ripe old age of seventy-eight years, and is yet living on the old home place in Pleasant township. This worthy couple became the parents of five sons and two daughters.

John Harkenrider, the second son and child, was reared amid the scenes of rural life, working in the fields in the summer months, while in the winter season he attended school, his time being thus occupied until he began learning the carpenter's trade at the age of eighteen years. He began business as an employe of George Holmes, of Vermilion township, Allen county, Indiana, to whom he served an apprenticeship of three years, and afterward was employed by him as a journeyman for two years. He afterward worked for other contractors and was engaged on many buildings in Fort Wayne as an employe of Jesse Lower. In 1881 he entere.d the service of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a carpenter, receiving one dollar and ninety-five cents per day for his services. He was with the corporation in Fort Wayne until 1889, when he came to Crestline as foreman of the car shops at that place, since which time he has served continuously in that capacity. His long and varied experience in the line of his chosen occupation as well as his good executive ability and capable control of the business won him the confidence of the officers of the road. He is well qualified for the duties and labors which devolve upon him, and he has control of all the carpenter work in the shops of Crestline and at times he has as many as one hundred men under his supervision.

Mr, Harkenrider was united in marriage to Miss Mary Shaughney, a native of Pleasant township, Allen county, Indiana. Her people were early settlers of that locality. Their marriage has been blessed with four daughters and a son, namely: Lizzie, Annie, Maggie, Loretta and Thomas. Mr. Harkenrider has taken a great interest in the education of his children, realizing the importance of good mental training as a discipline and preparation for life's work. The eldest daughter, Lizzie, having enjoyed good school privileges, is now occupying the position of bookkeeper at the Gibson House. Annie is quite a successful musician and is now engaged in teaching music, while the younger children are students in the schools of Crestline. Mr. Harken- rider himself had but limited educational privileges, his knowledge being largely acquired by study at night after working hours were over. He has also added to this by extensive reading and observation and is now a well informed man. He and his family are members of the Catholic church at Crestline, and in his political affiliations he is a Democrat. On the ticket of the party he was elected a member of the city council and is now serving in that capacity. His official prerogatives are used in support of all measures for the development and improvement of the city.

John Fisher

John Fisher, an engineer on the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad, residing at Crestline, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, February 9, 1852. His father, Adam Fisher, was a native of the same locality, and in the year 1855 crossed the Atlantic to America, bringing with him his family. He believed that he might better provide for his wife and children in the new world, and accordingly he located upon a farm in Crawford county, Ohio, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred in the year 1878. His wife, Mrs. Catherine Fisher, was also born in Hesse- Darmstadt, passing away in Crawford county. Their children are Adam, Mrs. Grufstein, Mrs. Elizabeth Clemens, Philip, Lein, George, Eliza, Fred, Jacob, John and Mrs. Mary Fiddler.

In taking up the personal history of John Fisher we present to our readers the life record of one who is widely known in Crawford county. He was brought to Ohio by his parents when only three years of age, and has here passed his entire life. He pursued his education in the schools of Crestline and in his youth worked upon his father's farm, assisting in the labors of field and meadow from the time of early spring planting until the crops were gathered in the autumn. Not desiring to follow the plow as a life work, however, he left home in 1871 to enter the railroad service as a fireman in the employ of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad. He was thus engaged for five years, on the expiration of which period he was promoted to the position of engineer, in which capacity he has served for a quarter of a century. He has been offered postions on passenger trains, but has refused these, preferring to run on a freight engine. He is most reliable, painstaking and careful, and he enjoys in an unusual degree the confidence of his superiors. In the line of his chosen life work he has social relations with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers.

In 1876 Mr. Fisher was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Metz, who was born in Crawford county, October 12, 1854, her parents having come to Ohio from Germany in an early period of the development of the Buckeye state. Two children grace the union of our subject and his wife, - Amos and Howard. The parents hold membership in the Lutheran church, and in his political affiliations Mr. Fisher is a Democrat, supporting the men and measures of the party and keeping well informed on the issues of the day. He has never been an aspirant for office, preferring to give his entire attention to> his work. He has a wide acquaintance in Crawford county and his friends are almost as numerous.

R. M. Young-blood, who is occupying the position of clerk in the yardmaster's office of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad Company, was born in the city of Indiana, Pennsylvania, March 6, 1840. His father, William Youngblood, was a native of Middleton, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and by trade was a shoemaker, learning the business in early life, and following it for a number of years. After his marriage he removed to Indiana, Pennsylvania, and thence came to Ohio, locating in Alliance, Stark county, where he died when about sixty years of age. He was of German lineage, the original American ancestors having come from the fatherland. But the grandfather of our subject was a native of the Keystone state. William Youngblood married Miss Isabella McCune, who was a native of Franklin county, where she resided up to the time of her removal with her husband to Indiana county. She lived to attain the age of eighty-live years and died in Alliance, Stark county, Ohio. She was of Scotch-Irish descent. Air. and Mrs. Youngblood were the parents of fifteen children, thirteen of whom reached years of maturity, while eight of the family are still living, four of the brothers being railroad men.

Mr. Youngblood, of this review, was the eleventh in order of birth and is now the only one of the brothers in the railroad office. He was in his eighteenth year when he accompanied his parents on their removal from Pennsylvania to Alliance, and at that time he secured a position as freight brakeman, running from Crestline to Alliance and Allegheny. In 1862 he was made freight conductor and followed that business with the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad Company until 1871, when he was made a passenger conductor, running from Crestline to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, until 1885, covering a period of almost a quarter of a century, serving as conductor of the same road. In 1885-6 he tended the switches in the Crestline yards and from 1886 until 1899 was assistant yardmaster at Crestline, since which time he has occupied his present position in the yardmaster' s office. The large railroad corporations are exacting in their demands made on their employes, yet are quick to recognize faithful service and to continue in their employ those who are true, faithul and capable and to this class belongs Air. Youngblood, who has been with the company through the entire period of his business career. On the 24th of December, 1863, occurred the marriage of Mr. Youngblood and Miss Sarah Hunt, a native of Huron county, Ohio, born in the village of London. They became the parents of three children : Harry, who. is living in Crestline; Minnie, at home; and Frank, who is a clerk in the office of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad Company. In his political views Mr. Youngblood is a stanch Republican and is well known among the representative people of the county. He is a member of the Volunteer Relief Railroad Society, an organizaton formed for the relief of all in need of assistance who are in the railroad employ. For forty-one years he has been connected with the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago line anvl is therefore one of its oldest employes. It would be difficult for anyone in this or other walks of life to show a record of more faithful service than Mr. Youngblood has done, and to those who desire advancement his history should furnish an example worthy of emulation in shoving the power of fklelitv as a potent aid in the business world.

Prominent among the rising professional men of Cranberry township, Crawford county, is Dr. Thomas Newton Patterson, a successful and popular practitioner of dentistry, who in the past six years has absorbed the greater part of the patronage in his line in this section. The birth of Dr. Patterson was in Guernsey county, Ohio, on August 30, 1866, and he was a son of William and Mary J. (Young) Patterson. The former was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, where he grew to manhood and pursued the trade of millwright for some years, later engaging in contracting.

The early boyhood of Thomas X. Patterson was spent in his home and in attendance upon the common schools in his district, but at the age of fifteen years he began to make his own way in the world. His first work was in a sash factory in Mansfield, and while employed there during the day he pur- sued his studies at night. With the exception of short intervals he continued in the sash factory for the following ten years and then accepted a position in the wholesale department of the hardware firm of Wagner & Son, with whom he remained one year. His tastes, however, were not in this line, and he determined to begin the study of dentistry. In the fall of 1893 he entered the Ohio State Medical University and in the spring of 1896 he was graduated at this institution.. In the following spring he located in New* Washington and since then has been very successful in his practice. Dr. Patterson is a student and keeps well informed concerning all of the modern discoveries in his chosen profession, and employs all of the modern implements which have done so much in late years to- change the whole practice of his science.

Dr. Patterson was married in February, 1896, to Miss Mary M. Xagie, who was born in Mansfield, and was the daughter of Daniel Nagle. Two children w7ere born of this union : Margaret, deceased, and an infant. Dr. Patterson is an active member of the United Brethren church, where he is highly regarded. His skill and close attention to business have won for him the confidence of the public, and he is regarded as one of the rising young men 111 his profession whose success is permanent.

Samuel Eichhorx

Among the worthy German emigrants in Ohio was John Eichhorn, from Baden, who in 1835 located three miles south of Gallon, in Morrow- county. His son, Adam Eichhorn, was born in Baden, Germany, in 181 7, and came over to America with his father, his mother having died in 1834. On attaining his majority lie was given one half of his father's farm of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he erected buildings and which he proceeded to improve. Pie married Margaret Lover, who bore him eight children, three of whom, beside the subject of this sketch, survive: Christian J., of Polk township. Crawford county, Ohio; Catharine, who is the wife of Peter Zimmerman of the same township; and Emma S., who is not married. Mr. and Mrs. Eichhorn lived on their farm in Morrow county until 1866, when Mr. Eichhorn sold the place and removed to Gallon, where he lived until 1873, when he bought a farm of one hundred acres on the Winchester road, two miles and a half west of Gabon, where he lived until his death, which occurred October 24, 1900. His widow", now in her seventy-fourth year, lives on their homestead which is now managed by their son, Christian Eichhorn. Mr.

Samuel Eichhorn was born on the Eichhorn homestead in Morrow county, Ohio, October 10, 1857, and was educated in the common schools and brought up a practical farmer. April 21, 1881, he married Miss Mary E. Hocker, a native of Jefferson township, Crawford county, Ohio, and a daughter of Philip Hocker, who was born in Baden, Germany. For a year after his marriage he worked the home farm on shares, and in 1882 he located on his present farm of eighty acres, then the property of his father-in-law, which he worked on shares for five years. He then bought the place on which, in 1890, he erected an addition to his house and built a commodious barn. He has adequate outbuildings and all necessary appliances for successful farming, and his farm is considered one of the best improved and equipped agricultural properties in the township. In 1901, Mr. Eichhorn bought the John Wardon farm of forty acres, on which are another fine residence and handsome farm buildings. He devotes himself to general farming, but makes a specialty of raising hogs, in which he has been very successful. His methods have been so progressive and so fruitful of good results that he has come to be regarded as one of the most substantial farmers in Crawford county. In politics he is a Democrat and for six years he has been a member of the township school board. He is a member of the German Reformed church at Galion, in which for years he has held various offices, and is now an elder.

Samuel and Mary E. (Hocker) Eichhorn had four children, three of whom survive: Calvin H., who is employed at Flickinger's Wheel Works, at Galion, Ohio, and Edwin W. and Emma M., who are members of their father's household. Mrs. Eichhorn died December 20, 1886, and February 13, 1889, Mr. Eichhorn married Miss Mary Edler, a native of Marion county, Ohio, and a daughter of Carl Edler, a prominent farmer of Jefferson township, Crawford county, Ohio. By his second marriage he has two sons named Roy O. and Earl F. Eichhorn.

Jacob Ulmer

Jacob Ulmer, who is carrying on agricultural pursuits in Liberty township, Crawford county, where he is known as a reliable and highly esteemed citizen, was born on the farm where he now resides, on October 30, 1847, a son °f Daniel and Barbara (Brose) Ulmer, and is one of the eight survivors in a family of eleven children. The names of these are: Fredericka, the wife of

Adam Durr, of Fort Recovery, Mercer county, Ohio; Abraham, of Cranberry townshp, this county; Adam, of Bucyrus; John, of Fort Recovery; Jacob, of this sketch; George, of Fort Recovery; Solomon, of Holmes township; and Samuel, of Sulphur Springs.

Daniel Ulmer, the father of our subject, was born in Germany, in 1805, and grew up on the home farm, also working at times for neighboring farmers, in 1832 he left his native land with the intention of finding a better opportunity in America. After a long and wearisome voyage of six weeks he landed in Xew York city and came on into Ohio to Crawford county, where he knew he would find friends who had preceded him the years before. Mr. Ulmer came with the determination to- succeed, and immediately entered a small tract of land, containing forty acres, in Liberty township, located one and one-half miles east of Brandywine Station, and upon it he erected a log cabin, in the forest, and soon after installed his bride within it and settled down to a busy life. His wife, Barbara Brose, was a most estimable young lady, who had come from Germany on the same vessel with him, and she made him a loving helpmate and was a cheerful companion through the pioneer experiences which followed. Two years after marriage Mr. Ulmer sold the forty-acre farm and bought one of eighty acres, in the same township, two miles north of Sulphur Springs. Of the eighty acres live were already cleared, and a log cabin had been built upon it by the former owner. Here Air. Ulmer went to work with a will, cleared and improved the land, and in later years bought the thirtyacre tract adjoining, erected commodious and comfortable buildings and made his farm one of the best and most productive in the locality. He was known far and wide for his thrift and industry, as well as for his neighborly kindness. On April 30, 1884, occurred his death, and the Lutheran church lost one of its most valued members.

Jacob Ulmer was reared on the farm and obtained his education at the common schools of the locality. When he had attained his nineteenth year his father permitted him to start out in life for himself, after which he worked at the carpenter's trade before and after the harvest seasons, during which time he was employed in running a threshing machine for six years. In 1874 he married Miss Louisa Ackerman, a native of Liberty township, a daughter of David Ackerman, who had been born in Wurtemberg, Germany, and had been one of the early settlers of Crawford county. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ulmer, viz. : Thomas, Alpheus D., and Catherine, - all of whom reside at home.

for his father, on shares, until about 1880, when he purchased the place, consisting of one hundred and four acres. His aged father then took up his residence with his son, Samuel Ulmer, the mother having passed away during the previous year. Since that time Mr. Ulmer has successfully pursued farming, his land yielding large crops, and his herds increasing in numbers until he is justly regarded as one of the most substantial citizens of the locality. In politics, like his father, he has always been a Democrat, and has served for several terms as township trustee. His interest in educational matters has made him a valuable member of the school beard and he is a leading member of the German Lutheran church. Mr. Ulmer is one of the highly respected farmer-citizens of Crawford count)'.

Joseph M. Richards

Joseph M. Richards, deceased, was a man of sterling worth who made his home in Crestline and by his many commendable personal characteristics won the esteem and confidence of a large circle of friends. He was born in NewT Brighton, Pennsylvania, June 9, 1852, and there remained until his removal to Allegheny, where he entered the railway service, acting as fireman for his brother on the Pennsylvania road. Before he was twenty years of age he was made an engineer and acted in that capacity with the same road until his death, which occurred in 1892, when he was accidentally killed while on duty. He was oiling his engine and was struck by a passing passenger train, being instantly killed. It was while making a return trip from Pittsburg with freight No. 65. He ran his train on the siding at Steele in order to secure the necessary coal and also clear the track for the passenger train. No. 31. He had gone down under the engine and crawld out while it was letting off steam, so that he did not hear the on-coming train, which was approaching at a speed of thirty miles an hour. A projection struck his head and death followed immediately. He had resided for more than fourteen years in Crestline and was known to every school child almost as well as to the older residents of the city. He was extremely kind-hearted and was numbered among the best residents of the community. He held membership with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and the Relief Society, and wherever known he commanded respect and the friendship of his fellow men. He was sober and industrious, energetic and reliable, and his many excellent qualities classed him among the citizens of worth.

Weber, who was born in Crestline, on Christmas clay of '1858, and was a daughter of Michael and Mary (Miller) Weber. Her father was a prominent and honored pioneer of Crestline, conducting a hostelry where the Continental now stands, this place being known as the Franklin House. However, a fire destroyed the hotel in i860. Mr. Weber was also in the grocery business and was one of the prominent men of the town, occupying an enviable position in business and social circles and as a member of the Masonic fraternity. He died in 1884, leaving a family of three sons and two daughters. His widow is still living.

Mrs. Richards is the eldest of the five children. She was reared in Crestline and there pursued her education. Her brothers and sisters are: George, who is an engineer on the Pittsburg, Ft. Wayne & Chicago road ; Christ, a fireman ; Mary, wife of James B. Fitzsimmons, an engineer on the Pittsburg, Ft. Wayne & Chicago Railroad; and John George, deceased. Mrs. Richards has considerable prominence in Crestline, being one of those well-to-do ladies of the city. Her home is celebrated for its thoughtful and gracious hospitality and her many friends delight there to gather.

P. Fred Hoss

P. Fred Hoss, who owns and cultivates one hundred and twenty acres of fine land in Chatfield township, represents one of the old and honored pioneer families of the county. When the greater part of the land in this lacality was still in possession of the government his grandfather, John A. Hoss, took up .his abode in Crawford county. He was a natve of Wurtemberg, Germany, and with his family he came to America, crossing the Atlantic in a sailingvessel, the voyage consuming weeks instead of days, as at the present time. Continuing his journey westward to Crawford county, lie entered a tract of government land in Chatfield township - the farm upon which our subject was born - and erected a log cabin, after which he began to clear and develop his land, thus making a good home for his family. One of his children was Adam Hoss, who was born in Y\ urtemberg, Germany, in 1823, and was therefore a lad of ten summers at the time of the emigration of the family to the new world. He was reared here amid frontier scenes and experiences and after attaining to man's estate he married a Miss Leity, by whom he had two children, Adam and Christiana, both now deceased. After the death of the mother the father wedded Catherine Leity, and they had three children, namelv : Fred; Elizabeth, the wife of Ben Green; and Lena, who married

Dan Kolb. The father continued to reside oh the old family homestead until called to his final rest in 1895, when seventy-two years of age, and the mother of our subject passed away the same year. They were consistent members of the Lutheran church, known and respected for their sterling- worth. The father came to the count}- in limited circumstances but he cleared and improved his farm, worked industriously and with determination, and thus became well-to-do-.

On the old famly homestead, now occupied by Samuel K< iln, P. Fred Hoss was born, on the 4th of July, 1855, and there his youth was passed, the duties of the school room claiming his attention in the winter months, while in the early spring he aided in planting the crops, assisted in their cultivation through the summer, and in the autumn performed his share in garnering tne yield of the fields. He was married in 1883 but continued on the old home place until 1888, when he came to his present farm, comprising one hundred and twenty acres of the rich land of Chatfield township. The buildings, fences and other improvements upon the place were put there by him, and he carries on general farming and stock-raising, having well tilled fields and good grades 0f stock, - all giving evidence of his thrift and careful supervision.

In 1883 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Hoss and Miss Elizabeth Klink. a daughter of Christian Klink, and unto them have been born four children, Jesse E., Eva, Jonas and Bertha. The parents belong to the Lutheran church and have many friends in the county. Having spent his entire life in Chatfield township Mr. Hoss is deeply interested in its welfare and is a progressive citizen.

Smith W. Bennett

Probably no profession affords a wider field for individual enterprise and ability than does the legal profession, and this fact has attracted to its ranks multitudes of ambitious young men in every generation since law became reduced to a recognized science and increasing civilization has demanded a finer discrimination between justice and injustce. "Through struggles to success" has certainly been the history of Mr. Bennett. Handicapped by physical disability, but with strong determination and' perseverance, he has steadily advanced until today he occupies a conspicuous position among the distinguished members of the bar of this portion of Ohio.

both of whom were natives of western Pennsylvania, and removed from the Keystone state to Ohio in 1862. On the 4th of April, 1864, they took up their abode in Bucyrus. The mother died in May, 1899, at the age of seventy years, and the father is now retired in Bucyrus. The only school privileges which Smith W. Bennett enjoyed were those afforded through the educational system of Bucyrus. He was graduated in the high school here in June, 1879, but his study had not been continuous. During his fifteenth year he was ill, being confined to his bed for one entire year with necrosis of the tibia, which left him crip_ pled in the left limb and forced him to remain away from school for three years, naturally a lover of books, he spent much of his time in reading and in his youth had a desire to enter the literary field, but thinking that he was not sufficiently well educated, upon leaving school to become a writer, he undertook to learn a trade from which to derive means sufficient to enable him to prosecute a college course. Physical weakness, however, forced him to give up this work and he was persuaded by his mother to read law. He at first had no inclination to do this, but complying with her request, he soon became deeply interested in his studies - an interest that has never waned, but has grown stronger as he has mastered the principles of jurisprudence and learned of the wonderful science which has developed into the present intricate legal system. His long illness, though difficult to be borne at the time, proved, as Mr. Bennett says, "the most beneficial thing that ever happened" to him. In early inured him to suffering and turned his thoughts toward books. Necessity and his mother's influence turned his thoughts to the law and success has attended his efforts in this direction. He has contributed as a writer to the literature of his profession, as well as to various magazines and periodicals. For thirteen years he was a partner of General E. B. Finley, of Bucyrus. During a part of that time the firm was known as Finley, Eaton & Bennett, and later became Finley, Beer & Bennett, the second member being Judge Thomas Beer, of Bucyrus. Afterward the firm became Beer, Bennett & Monnett, and thus remained until January 1, 1898, when it was dissolved. Air. Bennett then went into the office of Hon. F. S. Monnett, attorney general of Ohio, as special counsel, and after the termination of Mr. Monnett's term, remained with his successor, the Hon. J. M. Sheets, in the same capacity. He has had charge of very important cases in state and federal courts, and in the supreme court of the United States, at Washington. Some of the most important questions of taxation have been

On the 1 2th of January, 1891, Mr. Bennett was united in marriage to Miss Effie Monnett, of Bucyrus, Ohio, a daughter of Rev. T. J. Monnett, of Bucyrus, and a graduate of Monnett Hall of the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, this state. She died October 26, 1898, leaving two children, Hugh M., born February 22, 1892, and Grace Lizetta, born January 2, 1896. On the 28th of November, 1900, Mr. Bennett was again married, his second union being with Miss Annie Drought, of Bucyrus, daughter of William H. Drought, and a lady of refinement and social distinction. Mr. Bennett holds membership in the First Methodist Episcopal church, at Bucyrus, but while an adherent to that denomination, is liberal in his views, according to others the right which he reserves for himself of forming his own opinions upon all such matters. In his political views he has always been a Republican, and has assisted the cause of the party "on the stump'' since the Blaine campaign of 1884. He belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and to the Knights of Pythias fraternity, and has attained the thirty-second degree of Masonry. At the session of the Ohio State Bar Association, held in July, 1 901, he was elected its secretary, which position he now holds. Viewed in a personal light he is a strong man, of excellent judgment, fair in his views and highly honorable in his relations with his fellow men. His integrity stands as an unquestioned fact in his career. His life has been manly, his actions sincere, his manner unaffected and his example is well worthy of emulation.

Abraham Laibbly

Throughout his entire business career Mr. Laibbly has carried on agricultural pursuits and is now the owner of a valuable and attractive farm of one hundred acres in Chatfield township, Crawford county. He was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, October 6, 1836, his parents being John and Susanna Laibbly, who had eleven children, six of whom are yet living. Upon the family homestead in the county of his nativity the subject of this review spent the days of his boyhood and youth, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. On attaining his majority he began farming on the shares, and has always engaged in the tilling of the soil, his industry and careful management making his work a profitable source of income.

In the year 1857 Mr. Laibbly was married to Miss Catherine Mock, and unto them were born two children : Emery W., who is now a resident farmer of Chat field township; and Matilda, who died at the age of two years. After the death of his first wife Mr. Laibbly was again married, his second union being celebrated on the 17th of January, 1899, when Amy Seiple became his wife.

It was in the year i860 that Mr. Laibbly removed to Crawford county, taking up his abode upon the farm which has since been his home. He at first purchased eighty acres of land, but has since added to the property, until he now owns one hundred acres. Only twenty acres had been cleared when he took possession, all of the remainder being covered with a heavy growth of timber. He has since cleared forty acres alone, and of the entire amount eighty-three ?.cres has been made ready for the plow and is now under a high state of cultivation, the fields yielding a golden tribute to the owner, while fine improvements indicate lus progressive spirit. His first home here was a log cabin, in which he resided for eighteen years, when he replaced it by his present fine commodious residence. Good barns and outbuildings also furnish shelter for grain and stock, and the accessories and conveniences of a model farm are here in evidence, standing as monuments to the enterprise and labor of the owner.

Mr. Laibbly gives his political support to the Democracy, and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have frequently called him to public orifice, continuing him in the position of township trustee for nine years. He is a member of the parish church, and is a citizen of worth, widely and favorably known throughout his adopted county.

Amos B. Charlton

Among the eminently successful and widely known farmers and stockraisers of Liberty township, Crawford county, is Amos B. Charlton, who was born on the 7th of September, 1835, in this township, a son of Michael and Anna (Mason) Charlton. Nine children were born to the parents of our subject, and of these six still survive, namely: Mary, the wife of L. H. Mason, of Ashland county; Elizabeth, the widow of J. H. Wert ; Amos B., of this sketch; Narcissa, the widow of William Tobias, of Wooster, Ohio; Jonas, formerly a member of the One Hundred and First Ohio> Volunteer Infantry, and now a resident of Columbus county, Ohio; and Alpheus D. Charles was a member of Company C, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, during the Civil war, and

The father of this family, Michael Charlton, was born in Hagerstown, Maryland, on the 5th of March, 1808, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Menser) Charlton, who, with their family of ten children, emigrated to Columbiana county, Ohio, as early as 1822. In 1829 his father gave him a tract of eighty acres of land in Liberty township, Crawford county, which the latter had entered some time previously. After one summer's work on this farm, however, Michael returned to Columbiana county, and there married Anna Mason, who was born therein in 1810. In the following spring they returned to Liberty township and settled on their farm, and this became their permanent resdence. As time went on Michael Charlton bought other land, adding at different times till he owned four hundred and thirteen acres in Liberty township, and one hundred and sixty in Columbiana count)-. A long and useful life was his, and although it extended to his ninety-first year it was tilled with good deeds, and when death came, on January 15, 1899, he was sincerely mourned by a large circle of friends. To the end he took an interest in public affairs, was a stanch Republican and was a most estimable man. The mother had passed away on September 20, 1892, at the age of eighty-one years, eleven months and seven days.

Amos B. Charlton, our immediate subject, grew to manhood surrounded by excellent home influences, and it was not until he had attained his majority that he embarked in farming upon his. own account. His success as a dealer and shipper iof stock was immediate, but the Civil war broke out just at this time, and on August 12, 1861, he enlisted for service in Company C, Fortyninth Ohio' Volunteer Infantry, and was made second lieutenant of his company. He saw eight months of service in the Army of the Cumberland, under General Buell, but was then stricken with typhoid fever and was sent to the hospital at Louisville, Kentucky, for several weeks. So< eager was he to be again in the field that he rejoined his regiment before he was able, suffered a relapse and was obliged to resign his command, sending in his resignation. A change seemed to cause so much improvement that his comrades persuaded' him to recall his resignation, and in his desire to be again on the field of duty he did so, but the very next day he was again prostrated and was quickly put aboard the train and sent home. This explains why he never received any formal discharge, although he had been a brave and faithful soldier.

The following summer was spent by Mr. Charlton in recuperating, but the next season he again engaged in farming, working for his father on the- shares and also resumed his buying and shipping of stock to eastern markets. When Mr. Charlton first engaged in the business of shipping he was the youngest shipper in this section of the country. His judgment was excellent, he understood his market, was careful and cautious and his business in this line so prospered that the time came when he shipped as high as ninety thousand dollars worth of stock in a single season. In 1872 he purchased the home farm, consisting" of one hundred and seventy-one acres, and has ever since continued to make this desirable place his home. He sold it in 1894 to L. H. Mason, who in turn sold it to W. H. Charlton.

The marriage of Mr. Charlton was in 1869, to Miss Emma E. Hoppel, a native of Northampton county, Pennsylvania, born on the 23d of October, 1849, ancl came to Crawford county wth her parents when quite young. To this marriage were born seven children : Virgil H.. who is in the office of the Osborne Machine Company, of Columbus, Ohio; Ary B., a hotel man of Allegheny. Pennsylvania; Michael Z., a teacher, who resides at home; Anna, a teacher and wife of Dr. E. E. Bevington, of Sulphur Springs, Ohio; Mabel, also a teacher, who is the wife of W. F. McCameron, of Sandusky township ; and Orlo H. and Donald H., who are living at home. All of the children of Mr. Charlton have been afforded excellent educational opportunities and four -of them have been acceptable teachers. Virgil H. and Michael Z. finished their courses at Ada (Ohio) College.

Mr. Charlton has been identified with various interests, for nine years being a partner in the butchering business in Sulphur Springs, continuing until 1895, and he did not give up his successful stock business until 1885. Since the latter date he has paid considerable attention to the farm. In politics he has ever been a stanch Republican, and most acceptably served the township as assessor for three years. His connection with the Lutheran church has covered many years, in which he has held the positon of trustee and is known as one of its most liberal supporters. Not only is Mr. Charlton an intelligent and liberal-minded man, but is also> something of a traveler, having visited fourteen of the states in the Union. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic order, in which he is highly esteemed.

Jacob Munch

One of the most respected citizens and successful farmers of Vernon township, Crawford county, Ohio, is Jacob Munch, who was born in Germany, on April 29, 1847, ancl ne was one °t a family of three children born to Nicholas

Munch and wife, who remained in Germany all their days. The former died at the age of sixty-eight years, the mother of our subject having died when her son was but two years old.

Jacob Munch was well taught in the schools of his native land, and at the age of twenty-one, according to the laws of his country, he entered the army, serving faithfully through the Franco-Prussian war. In 1873, after the close of that war, Mr. Munch decided to emigrate to America, in the hope of bettering- his condition. His landing in the United States was in the harbor of New York, where he remained one week, coming then to Mansfield, Ohio. Although he was master of the trade of stone mason, he was without means, and it took some time for him to become accustomed to the unknown language and different manners and customs, but his honest face and willingness to work soon made him friends, and he secured employment in Mansfield after a short delav. About one year later Mr. Munch went to Crestline and worked at his trade and also assisted neighboring farmers in agricultural work.

In 1877. by his industry and economy, Mr. Munch found himself able to rent a farm for himself. This was a tract of some sixty acres, in Jackson township, and here Mr. Munch and his estimable wife bent every energy to cultivate the land to its highest condition of producing capacity, and to lay aside means in order to become the owners of one of the fine farms in this favored part of the state. Mr. Munch had been married in 1875 to< Miss Christina Riber, who was a native of this township, and who was a daughter of John Riber, who had come hither at an earlv day from Germany and was a pioneer settler of the township.

For nine years Mr. Munch cultivated the farm -in Jackson township, but in 1886 he became the owner of his present home farm, which consists of ninety-three acres, and here the family has since resided, the efforts of Mr. Munch having been directed to their welfare. Honest toil has met with its reward in the case of our subject. It was by no fortunate speculation that he attained his success, but by the application of unremitting industry and selfdenial he has changed the condition of a poor German youth, in a strange country, to that of one of the most respected and prosperous land-owners of one of the best parts of the state in which he has made his home.

Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Munch, the five survivors of the family being as follows: Henry; Mary, the wife of Edward Zimmerman, of Mansfield; John; Frederick William; and Tracy, while the one removed by death was named George.

and his religious connection is with the German Reformed church. He is one of the most industrious and practical farmers of this neighborhood., and his well cultivated land and excellent improvements show his excellence as an agriculturist.

Jacob Bender

One of those business men whose probity is well known and whose career has thus far been distinguished for enterprise is Jacob Bender, one of the leading agriculturists of Crawford county. A native son of the Buckeye state, his birth having occurred in Richland county, on the 8th of January, 1840. His parents were Jacob and Catherine (Hoffman) Bender, and they had eleven children, nine now living, namely : Jacob, the subject of this review; Henry, a resident of Cranberry township, Crawford county; Charles, who resides near Knoxville, Iowa ; Christena, widow of Peter Stiving, of Richland county ; Anthony, of Vernon township, Crawford county ; William, of Auburn township, this county; Lizzie, wife of Cyrus Cross, also- a resident of Auburn townshp ; John, who makes his home in Vernon township ; and Philip, of Sandusky township.

The father of this family was burn near Heidelberg, Germany, on the 5th of October, 1816, while the mother was born at the same place on the 13th of August, 1816, and there they attained their majority and were married, that event occurring in 1840. In the same year they bade farewell to their native land and sailed for the United States, and after arriving in this country, they located in Richland county, Ohio, near Shelby, where Mr. Bender purchased forty acres of timber land. They took up their abode in a small cabin which had been built by a former owner, later "adding twenty acres to their original tract, and there they resided for a number of years, when they purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres four miles south of Shelby. There they made many substantial improvements, continuing to make their home there until 1862, when they sold that place and removed to Crawford county, Mr. Bender buying the farm of George Cummings, which contained about two hundred acres of land, located on the present site of old De Kalb, a part of the town having been built on a portion of the land. At one time he also owned three hundred acres of land in Iowa and two hundred acres in Michigan. On his Crawford county farm he spent his remaining days, passing away on the 26th of September, 1897, at the ripe old age of eighty years, eleven months and twenty-five days. He was an ardent Democrat in political mat- ters, but was never an office seeker, and he became known as on of the most reliable, straightforward and progressive agriculturists of his locality. His wife died on the 15th of January, 1885, and both she and her husband were zealous members of the Lutheran church. 'While in Germany she was a member of the Reformed church, while he was a Catholic, but after coming to America they both united with the Lutheran denomination and remained true to its teachings until their death.

Jacob Bender, whose name introduces this review, enjoyed only the educational privileges afforded by the old pioneer log school house of the neighborhood, with its puncheon floor and slab benches, and he remained under the parental roof until eighteen years of age. He then removed to Michigan, where he spent about three years engaged at work in a livery stable and sawmill, but that work proved too heavy for one so young and at the close of that period, in 1861, he returned to Ohio. On his arrival in this state he was engaged by a Mr. Crim to cross the plains to California with a drove of horses, reaching the Golden state after a journey of three months and three days, although a part of the train did not arrive until ten days later. Mr. Bender remained in Sacramento, California, about two years, working in a sales stable and at other occupation. In 1863 he again came to Crawford county, where he was employed as a farm hand for a time, and later, when the building of the Mansfield, Cold Water & Michigan Railroad was begun, he was employed at making cross ti,es for the company and afterward working on the grading of the road. This work covered the greater part of two years, after which he purchased seventy-two acres of his present home place and settled down to the quiet pursuits of farm life. He has added to his original purchase until the homestead now contains eighty-six acres, and he also owns a tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Cranberry township, and a town residence in Tiro.

The year 1865 witnessed the marriage of Mr. Bender and Miss Elizabeth Molder, a native of the Empire state and a daughter of Jacob Molder, who came from Germany to Xew York, entering land in Niagara county. About 1837 he sold that place and came to Richland county, Ohio. Unto our our subject and wife have been born six children, as follows : Anthony, who makes his home in Sandusky township, Crawford county; Catherine, who is still at home; Mary, a resident of Tiffin, Ohio; Marion, of Auburn township, Crawford county; Nettie, who also resides in Tiffin; and Cory, deceased. Mr. Bender gives his political preference to the Democracy, but is liberal in his views, voting for the men whom he thinks best qualified for public office. The family are members of the Lutheran church, and in the community where they reside they enjoy the respect and esteem of a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

William S. Brown

William S. Brown, who is now actively connected with the railway service as engineer of the Pittsburg. Fort Wayne & Chicago line, and makes his home in Crestline, was born in Crawford county, August 20, 1862. His father, Joseph Brown, was also a native of the same county, and was born July 7, 1834. The grandfather became one of the early settlers of this portion of the state, arriving in Crawford county with a rifle, which was all the property that he had in the world. His energy, resolute spirit and capable management, however, enabled him to secure a handsome competence. He occupied six hundred and forty acres of land, some of which he entered from the government, and at his death he still owned a valuable tract of one hundred and forty acres, having in the meantime sold the other portion of his property. Joseph Brown was reared to farm life and from his father he inherited a large and desirable tract of land. He lived upon this farm for fifty-seven years and was one of the best known agriculturists of the community. He married a Miss Smith, who was born in the town of Frederick, Wayne county, Ohio, September 14, 1837, and pursued her education in one (if the log schoolhouses that were common at that day. In 1854 she came to Crestline with her father, who was a prominent business man of this city, connected with the lumber trade and with the clothing business. In his political views Joseph Brown was first a Whig, but in 1856 he voted for James Buchanan and afterward became a Republican. He died on the old homestead in 1896, and thus passed away one of the honored pioneer settlers of Crawford county.

AYilliam S. Brown, whose name introduces this record, spent his boyhood days in his father's home, pursued his education in Crestline, and at the age of twenty-one years he entered upon his business career, following farming and also working in a sawmill for his father, devoting two years to the latter business. He then entered the railway service, being employed as a fireman on the Pennsylvania line in 1885, acting in that capacity for seven years, after which he was promoted to- engineer in 1892. Through fifteen years he has been in the employ of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago road, and during that time has had only one accident and that was of a very slight character, no one being injured. The car, however, broke down on account of being overloaded. Mr. Brown is devoted to his work and the responsible duties that devolve upon him, discharging them with careful faithfulness, allowing nothing to interfere with them.

In 1887 occurred the marriage of William S. Brown and Miss Luella Walters, who was born in Richland county. Ohio, July 22, 1862, and is a daughter of George and Mary jane (Simpson) Walters. Her parents were born in Richland county, and there the father died, but the mother is still living. Mrs. Brown was educated in Crestline and by her marriage has become the mother of two children: Helen May and Ruth Lucile, both natives of Crestline, the former born January 17, 1889, the latter July 7, 1891. Mr. Brown is a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity, the Maccabees and for nine years has been connected with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen. His political support is given to the men and measures of the Republican party and in religious faith he and his wife are Methodists, holding membership in the church of that denomination in Crestline.

Charles Ness

John, a teacher in the schools of Galion; Michael, who is also living in the same city ; William, a farmer of Leesville, who also has charge of a quarry ; Mrs. Ellen Overley, of Galion; Ida, wife of James Overley, a farmer and stock-raiser of Todd township, .Monroe county, Ohio; Emma, wife of William Gorley, of Galion; Mrs. Margaret Flick, deceased; and one who died in infancy.

On the family homestead farm Charles Xess was reared, and during his active business career he has been identified with the railroad service. In 1X74 he entered the employ of the Big Four Railroad Company, with which he has been identified for twenty-seven years. Promoted to the position of engineer, he has since acted in that capacity and is one of the most reliable representatives of the road, being ever watchful in discharging the responsible duties which devolve upon him. He is a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and has also had membership relations with the Knights of Pythias fraternity. Mr. Ne,ss was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Casey, a daughter of Nelson Casey, of Polk township, Crawford county, and they now have one daughter, Myrtle E., who is a graduate of the high school and is now a student in the university at Delaware, Ohio, where she is pursuing a special course in vocal and instrumental music. The family enjoy the warm regard of many friends and occupy a leading position in social circles.

Although one of the younger representatives of the dental fraternity in Crestline, Dr. Agnew possesses the skill and ability which will win him success, and the ambition which prompts energetic and continued action. He was born in western Ontario, Canada, in May, 1872, and his parents are still residing in Wingham, Ontario. He is the eighth in a family of nine children, among whom are two dentists, two physicians, two sisters who are nurses in the Pennsylvania hospital, at Philadelphia, while the youngest brother is now studying medicine. Such a record probably has scarcely ever been paralleled, and the family is certainly doing its share toward the alleviation of human suffering.

Dr. Agnew, whose name introduces this review, pursued his education in the public schools of his native county, and prepared for his professional career as a student in the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery, in which institution he was graduated on the completion of the regular course, with the class of 1899. He was located at Galion for some time, but in June. 1900, came to Crestline, where he opened an office. Although hardly a year has passed since that time he has already secured a large clientage. He is thoroughly in touch with the most advanced and improved methods of the day, and the work which he does in the line of his profession has given excellent satisfaction. He is a young man of determined purpose, of resolute spirit and commendable ambition, and these qualities cannot fail to bring him success.

David Kalb

One of the leading farmers and stock-raisers of Crawford county is David Kail), who resides in Chatfield township, where he owns and operates four hundred and eighty acres of valuable land. This constitutes one of the fine farms of this portion of the state. It is splendidly improved with substantial and commodious buildings, having three houses upon it, in addition to the residence of our subject. The barns and outbuildings are large, furnishing ample shelter for grain and stock, and fine grades of horses, cattle and sheep are seen in the pastures, while the rich fields give promise of golden harvests. The owner is numbered among the most prosperous and enterprising agriculturists of the county and well deserves his sucess.

Mr. Kalb was born on the farm where he now lives, March 21, 1844. His father, William Kalb, was a native of Wittenberg, Germany, born in 1800, and after arriving at years of maturity he was there married to Sevina Haynes. In the year 1832 they emigrated to America, making the voyage on a sailing vessel, which was sixty days between port and port. Mr. Kalb first located near Wooster, Ohio, where he purchased eighty acres of land, but after three years came to Crawford county, settling in Chatfield township. Here he bought one hundred and ten acres of wild land, of which only three acres had been cleared, the remainder being covered with a heavy growth of timber. A log house of one room was almost the only improvement on the place. Throughout the remainder of his life the father carried on farming here. He passed away at the age of ninety-one, his wife when eighty-nine years of age. They were both members of the Pietist church and were people of the highest respectability, honored as worthy pioneer settlers, who had aided in laying broad and deep the foundation for the present prosperity and progress of the county. He owned considerable real estate, including three hundred and sixty acres of land in Chatfield township. Unto Mr. and

Mrs. Kalb were burn eight children, namely: Sylvania, deceased wife of Michael Lutz; G. William, a retired farmer of Chatfield township; John, Jacob, Catherine, Redema and Caroline, all of whom are now deceased; and David.

The last named, born and reared on the old homestead, pursued his education in the common schools and when twenty-one years of age assumed the management of the home farm, which he has since cultivated. His practical experience in the fields of his youth well qualified him for the responsibility which he assumed, and as the years have passed he has increased his operations, becoming one of the most extensive farmers of the county. In connection with the raising of grain best adapted to this climate, he is extensively engaged in raising horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, and keeps on hand good grades of stock. In addition to his farm here he also owns six hundred and forty acres of land in Texas, near Fort Worth.

In March, ]86q, occurred the marriage of Mr. Kalb and Miss Catherine Beigle, and unto them were born the following: Sarah, deceased; Emma, wife of General Wallymire, of Chatfield township; Lucy E., wife of George Quick, of Chatfield township; Clara, at home; William H., a schoolteacher in Chatfield township; John, David T. and Frederick, who are upon the farm; Lizzie, deceased ; and one that died in infancy. The mother of the above children was called to her final rest April 24, 1901, and many friends were left to mourn her loss. The family attend the Lutheran church, of which Mr. Kalb is an earnest member. In his political views he is a stalwart Democrat and has served as school director, while for twelve years he has filled the position of trustee of Chatfield township, his long retention in office being ample proof of his fidelity to duty. He is a man who is ever found faithful to all the obligations of life, who is honorable in his dealing, straightforward in contract, and his many estimable qualities make his example well worthy of emulation.

John Jacob Durr

For four score years Mr. Durr has traveled life's journey and his has been an upright, useful and honorable career, which has made him a venerable and respected gentleman. In pioneer days he came to Crawford county, and for two-thirds of a century has been a witness of its development and progress, aiding, as he found opportunity, in the work of growth and improvements, and feeling a just pride in what has been accomplished here.

Mr. Durr is a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born October 31, 1821, his parents being Henry and Elizabeth (Crumb) Durr, who had five children, namely: Henry and Mary, now deceased; John J.; Barbara, who has also passed away; and Adam, who is living in Mercer county, Ohio. After the death of his first wife the father married Mary Coile, and their children were: Martin, who is deceased; and David, who makes his home in Chatfield township. The father was a farmer and baker, and conducted a tavern in the old country, where he remained until 1832. when with his family he came to America, crossing the Atlantic in a sailing vessel, which reached Baltimore harbor after a voyage of sixty-five days. From that place the family proceeded by team to Columbiana county, Ohio, and in the winter of 1832 came on sleds, drawn by oxen, to Crawford county, locating in Chatfield township. Here the father purchased one hundred and twenty acres of government land, where Thomas Regula now lives, and erected a double log cabin. The land was heavily timbered, and the entire region was wild and primitive, the family, therefore, experiencing the hardships of pioneer life. Henry Durr continued to engage in farming there until his life's labors were ended in death, when he was seventy-five years of age.

Mr. Durr of this review was a youth of eleven years, when, with his father he came to Chatfield township. So wild and unbroken was the trackless forest that he was several times lost in the green woods while hunting the oxen and cattle in his boyhood. He aided in the arduous task of developing the raw land, clearing it of the timber and preparing it for the plow. He lived with his father until his marriage, when he established a home of his own, removing to his present farm, whereon he has resided for fifty-seven years. His first home was a log cabin, and the young couple began their domestic fife in true pioneer style, but as the years passed all the comforts and conveniences known to the older east were introduced and the farm was thus transformed into a very valuable property. He now owns one hundred and thirty-eight acres, of which he cleared from the woods one hundred and twenty acres. He has carried on general farming and stockraising, and has also successfully practiced veterinary surgery. His labors have been crowned with an enviable degree of success and he ha.s accumulated a comfortable competence for the evening of life.

In 1844 Mr. Durr was married to Miss Elizabeth Jacoby, and they became the parents of the following children: Daniel and Benjamin, now deceased; Leo, the wife of the Rev. Philip Kessler ; Sarah, who married Fred Crother, of Liberty township ; Mary, who resides in Flolmes township ; and Lena. On the 1 8th of June, 1872, Mr. Durr was united in marriage to Hannah Solge. His present wife bore the maiden name of Hannah Herman, and they were joined in wedlock in September, 1890. Their home is a large brick residence, which was erected by Mr. Durr in 1858, being one of the many excellent improvements which he has placed upon his farm. He has long been a member of the Methodist church, and when he first resided in the county religious services were held in his father's cabin. He votes with the Republican party, and has always favored every movement and measure tending to promote the general welfare.