Huron County, Ohio - The whole text, 1909 (part 16 of 29)

Mr. Knapp and his family affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church and support all Christian and charitable work. He belongs to Floral Lodge, No. 260, F. & A. M., in which he takes an active part. A man of means, his landholdings amount to three hundred and ten acres besides his fine home in Greenwich. He is distinguished for his public spirit and is a strong advocate of good government and improvements, being of the opinion that by such things may the progress of a community be gauged.

Byron Emory Jennings

Byron Emory Jennings, who is now living practically retired in North Fairfield, where he owns a tract of ten acres of land, was formerly actively and successfully identified with the agricultural interests of this county. His birth occurred in Fairfield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 26th of October, 1853, his parents being Ezra S. and Harriet (Godden) Jennings, who were natives of Connecticut and New York respectively. The father was born on the 6th of August, 1828, while the mother's birth occurred October 1 3, 1820.

Byron Emory Jennings has always devoted his time and energies to agricultural pursuits, in which he has met with excellent success, annually harvesting good crops as the result of his practical and progressive methods in the cultivation of the soil. He has now disposed of his farm, however, and is living practically retired on a tract of ten acres in North Fairfield.

On the 24th of January, 1877, Mr. Jennings was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Cowpe, whose birth occurred in England on the 15th of June, 1858, her parents being John and Ellen (Frith) Cowpe, also natives of that country. The latter, who was born March 24, 1827, gave her hand in marriage to John Cowpe on the 23d of March, 1853. Mr. and Mrs. Cowpe made the ocean voyage to the United States when their daughter Jennie was but nine months old and in 1859, took up their abode at Olena, Huron county, Ohio. The father was a brickmaker by trade and followed that pursuit until the outbreak of the Civil war, when he enlisted in defense of the Union as a member of Company E, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was killed at the battle of Peach Tree Creek on the 2oth of July, 1864, thus laying down his life on the altar of his adopted country. Unto him and his wife were born the following children: John Sherman, Jennie and Mary Ann. Mr. and Mrs. Jennings had four children, namely: Otto, born October 3, 1878, who wedded Miss Grace Kinger on the 3oth of June, 1906, and resides in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Clair Elbert, whose birth occurred March I3, 1886, and who is now pursuing a course in mechanical engineering at the Ohio State

Mr. Jennings is a consistent member of the Presbyterian church, in the work of which he takes an active and helpful interest. He is well known and highly esteemed throughout the county in which he has made his home from his birth to the present time, his upright and honorable life commanding the respect and admiration of all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact.

Elias Beach Mitchell

Elias Beach Mitchell, a retired agriculturist residing in North Farifield, was born in Greenfield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 30th of December, 1839. The paternal grandfather, James Mitchell, who was of Scotch Irish descent, was born in New Jersey, about 1745. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Lorena Sutton, was of Holland Dutch lineage. Their children were seven in number, namely: William N., Betsy, Sarah, Polly, Hezekiah, Moses and James. William N. Mitchell, the father of our subject, whose birth occurred in Montgomery county, New York, on the 15 of January, 1799, came to Greenwich township, Huron county, Ohio, in 1821, making the journey with his father. Asa companand helpmate on the journey of life, he chose Miss Charisy Beach, who was born in Montgomery county, New York, in October, 1812, a daughter of Elias and Amanda (Herrick) Beach. Her parents were natives of Massachussetts and Connecticut respectively, and the father served as a soldier in the War of 1812. Mrs. Mitchell was the eldest in a family of eleven children, her brothers and sisters being as follows: Miles, T., Milton, Erastus, Marshall, Thomas, Jane, Sarah, Emily, Flora and Henrietta. About 1824, the Beach family established their home in Ashtabula county, Ohio, and about 1830, they came to Huron county, this state. Unto William N. and Charisy (Beach) Mitchell, were born two children: Philander ; and Elias Beach, of this review.

The last named obtained his education in the common schools of his home neighborhood and after putting aside his text-books, became identified with general agricultural pursuits, in which he was successfully engaged throughout his active business career. At the present time, however, he is living retired in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil, having left the farm and removed to North Fairfield in the spring of 1909. He still retains possession of his farm, which is a rich and productive tract of land of sixty-four acres in Fairfield township. He is now a member of the board of directors of the Huron County Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company, of which he formerly served as vice-president.

On the 4th of November; 1862, Mr. Mitchell was united in marriage to Miss Cornelia Place, whose birth occurred in New York city on the 26th of Nevember, 1843, her parents being Thomas and Dora (Barker) Place, whom she accompanied on their removal to Huron county, Ohio, in 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Place had a family of five children, namely: George, Lorenzo, Walter, Sarah and Cornelia. Unto Elias B. and Cornelia (Place) Mitchell, were born the following children: Fremon P., whose birth occurred November 5, 1866, and who wedded Miss Kate

Ryerson, of Greenfield township, Huron county; Donald W. ; Philip ; and Cornelia. Subsequent to the death of his first wife Mr. Mitchell was again married, in 1886, his second union being with Mrs. Martha J. Sherman, a widow, who was born in February, 1843. Her parents were Jonathan and Eliza (Munsel) Collinvood.

Mr. Mitchell is a prominent and valued member of the Baptist church, in which he has served as trustee for about nineteen years. He has always made his home in this county, and the fact that many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood to the present time, is an indication that his life has at all times been honorable and upright - worthy of the high esteem in which he is uniformly held.

Door Twaddle

Door Twaddle, a well-to-do farmer of Clarksfield township, Huron county, Ohio, was born in this township, March 28, 1852, the son of John J. and Julia A. (Palmer) Twaddle. The father was a son of Alexander Twaddle, and was born in the southwestern part of Pennsylvania, where the family lived from 1823 to 1836, and engaged in farming. John J. Twaddle, and his brother Alexander came to Clarksfield township 1835, where the former was married to Miss Julia A. Palmer. who had come to Ohio with her parents from Westchester county, New York. After their marriage the young couple lived near Norwalk, Ohio, where John J. Twaddle worked for Isaac Underhill, a pioneer resident of that section. During the twelve years in his employ, Mr. Twaddle saved up sufficient money to purchase a farm in Clarksfield township, which was his home until his death, which occurred December 28, 1885. His widow survived him until November 8, 1889, when she was buried by his side in Clarksfield cemetery. Of the children that were born to Mr. and Mrs. Twaddle, Frank died in infancy ; Ea married J. T. King, and is now a widow living in Wakeman village; Door is the subject of this sketch; Charlotte married Eugene Fox and lives on the old homestead in Clarksfield township; Leroy and Lilly A., were twins. The former of the two died December 14, 1897, but the other married J. L. Judd and lives in Marshall county, Kansas.

Door Twaddle was educated in the schools of Clarksfield and spent his youth on his father's farm, assisting in every way he could with the work that went on there. At the age of sixteen, he went to Michigan to purchase some land and while there worked at various pursuits. At the age of nineteen, he returned home and began learning the cheese manufacturing business, entering the factory of Parker, Morgan & Hovey. He worked for them for four years and then was appointed night superintendent of the factory, subsequently, being put in full charge of the establishment. Some years later, he became a partner in another cheese factory, located in Clarksfield, which business he conducted for seven years. He next entered the firm of J. C. Ransom & Company, where he gained a reputation as a successful cheese separator. In 1882, Mr. Twaddle gave up his interests in the cheese factorv and took up farming, to which he has devoted all

Mr. Twaddle married Miss Celia Rowland, the daughter of Daniel and Harriet (Chaffee) Rowland, a pioneer family of this county. They came here from New state in 1818 and became very prominent in the development of the resources of the township. To Mr. and Mrs. Twaddle have been born three children. Wanda, the only daughter, married Elmer P. Finch, of Wilmington. William E. was married on the 17th of June, 1903, to Miss Edna Spurrier, the daughter of Royal and Rheta (Stiles) Spurrier. Jay C., the youngest, was married May 9, 1903, to Miss Bertha Pearsall, the daughter of James and Julia (Scott) Pearsall. Both sons young men, well educated and thoroughly equipped for the affairs of life. They assist their father in the management of his large acreage and are up-to-date in the best manner of cultivating the soil.

Mr. Twaddle is a democrat and is deeply interested in public affairs, though not active in his party. He has, however, on many occasions served the people well as township trustee, as road supervisor and as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Gibson lodge, No. 301, F. & A. M., of Wakeman and also of the chapter. The New London lodge of the Independant Order of Odd Fellows as well numbers him upon it roll call. In the meetings of his lodges and in the general affairs of life, he has proved to be a man of sound principles and strong personality. He is progressive and well informed and is accounted one of the prosperous farmers of Clarksfield township.

E. P. Stone, a well known and enterprising agriculturist residing on his farm of thirty acres in Fitchville township, was born in Lorain county, Ohio, on the 9th of October, 1849, his parents being Ezra and Isabelle (Baldwin) Stone, the former a native or Vermont and the latter of Jefferson county, New York. In his boyhood days, Ezra Stone was brought to Lorain county, this state, by his father, Josiah Stone, who there purchased a farm of one hundred and fifteen acres. Ezra Stone successfully carried on general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career and subsequent to the death of his father, he came into possession of the latter's farm, thereon spending his remaining days. Eighty-five acres of the original farm of one hundred and fifteen acres is stil] possession of the family, now belonging to Mrs. Olivia Mull and Joseph P. Stone, a sister and brother of our subject. The father gave his political allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy. In the year 1846, he wedded Miss Isabell Baldwin and their union was blessed with six children, two of whom died in infancy. E. P.. of this review ; Orlando G., whose birth occurred in 1853; Mrs. Olivia Mull; and Joseph P. With the exception of the first named, all are residents of Lorain county. The father, who was born June 7, 1824, died February 15, 1880, and the mother, whose birth occurred April 11, 1825, passed away May 19, 1902.

F. P. Stone remained under the parental roof until after he had attained his majority, working out by the month as a farm hand. When twenty-three years of age, he was united in marriage to Miss Julia L. Clark, a daughter of Jewett and Adeline Clark, of Lorain county. For fourteen years after his marriage, he followed his trade as a carpenter and joiner and then turned his attention to the work of farming, which has since claimed his time and energies. In 1898, he bought his present place of thirty acres in Fitchville township, Huron county, and annually gathers good harvests as a reward of the intelligence which he displays in the planting and cultivation of his crops.

Mr. and Mrs. Stone have three children: Roy E., who was born in 1874 and completed a course in the Oberlin high school and Moody Institute of Chicago, Illinois; M., who is married to Frank Russell of Clarksfield, this county and Leon B., who is a teacher in the schools of Fitchville. Both were educated in the Fitchville high school.

In his political views Mr. Stone is a stanch republican, being a firm believer in the principles of that party. Both he and his wife are esteemed in their home community as people of genuine personal worth, the hospitality of the best homes being freely accorded them.

Harlow Case Stahl

Among the names of those who stand as the most prominent representatives of industrial Ohio, is that of Harlow Case Stahl. Not by leaps or bounds but by steady progress that ultimately reaches the objective point has he gained his present position, yet his rise has been rapid, owing to his ready recognition and intelligent appreciation of opportunities. He early learned to place the correct value upon life's contacts and experiences and this, combined with his study of trade conditions, has placed him in a position to quickly utilize every opportunity and make each moment count to the best advantage. He is today widely known as the president and treasurer of the Ohio Cultivator Company and since its inception, has been the leading spirit in the enterprise.

Mr. Stahl was born in a log house on a farm south of Fremont, Ohio, February I2, 1849, and as the name indicates is of German descent. His grandfather, John Stahl, was born in 1773, and came to the United States at an early day. His son, Jacob B. Stahl, the father of our subject, was also born in Germany and came to Ohio in 1832 at the age of eighteen years. He devoted his life to farming and spent his latter years near Fremont, Ohio. On the 21st of December, 1841, in Fremont, Ohio, he was married to Rachel E. Camp, who died September 5, 1877, while his death occurred January 27, 1883. He was born February 10, 1814, and he was, therefore, in the sixty-ninth year of his age at the time of his demise.

After acquiring his preliminary education in the public schools of Fremont, Harlow C. Stahl pursued a special business course at Oberlin, Ohio. His youthful days were largely devoted to the work of the home farm, whereon he remained until he attained the age of thirty, at which time he became identified with manufacturing interests in Fremont. The Ohio Cultivator Company, which stands today as Bellevue's largest industry, was established on a very small scale at

Fremont in 1878. Stahl's mechanical ingenuity and his recognition of needs in the agricultural world that might be met through invention and manufacture, led him to take up the work of building cultivators, and his first year's output amounted to eighty-one machines, which were practically manufactured and marketed by him with the assistance of a local blacksmith. Up to that time, no successful riding cultivator had ever been placed upon the market and the first year's output was disposed of to farmers in the immediate vicinity of Fremont. The machines met with such unbounded success that their popularity was soon heralded in the neighboring counties so that it was possible for Mr. Stahl to find ready sale for two hundred cultivators in the second year. They were manufactured throughout the winter months in the blacksmith shop and when the spring trade cpened were trailed behind a wagon and retailed to the farmers personally by Mr. Stahl. His keen prescience enabled him to recognize the possibilities of this piece of farm machinery and the necessity for increased capital prompted him to form a partnership under the name of Stahl & Peck. Originally, they conducted a feed store in connection with their manufacturing business, but the rapid increase of the trade led to the concentration of their energies upon manufacturing lines and this step toward expansion was rapidly followed by the organization of a stock company known as the Fremont Cultivator Company. From the beginning the growth of the business has been rapid and substantial, so much so that in 1886, enlarged quarters had to be secured. At that time negotiations were opened with the citizens at Bellevue for a location which terminated in the Fremont Cultivator Company's leaving its cramped quarters and removing to Bellevue. Soon afterward the business was reorganized under the name of the Ohio Cultivator Company, and although the new location gave them at the time much needed manufacturing facilities, this condition lasted for only a short time, as the increasing popularity of the famous Ohio cultivator was extending into the corn belts of the west. The growing trade demanded additions to the factory and the main building was converted into a three-story structure, ifter which a foundry was built, for up to that time both grey iron and malleable was purchased under contract from foundries in Cleveland.

While increasing the factory facilities, it was also found advisable to increase the line of machines and as a result the disc harrow business of the Dayton Farm Implement Company was purchased and removed to this place and made a part oí the famous Ohio line. From that time, the growth of the business was very rapid and nearly every year has been marked by new additions being built to the factory and mcdern machinery being installed throughout all departments of the The next important addition to the line of implements as well as to the plant of the cultivator company was the purchase of the buildings and equipment of the Bellevue Plow Company, whose property adjoined that of the cultivator company, lying on the opposite side of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad tracks. This gave to the cultivator company, one of the largest and strongest lines of small tools manufactures in the country and, with the increased and' available capital at their command, this plant immediately entered upon a new and even more successful era. A few years later followed the purchase of the patents, good will, etc., of the Ohio Hay Press Company, whose product ime limited to but one style of press - a steam or belt power Bay press. To this has been added a full and complete line of and two horse presses that have rapidly sprung into favor with the progressive hay balers throughout the United States. This branch of the business within a few years has developed to mammoth proportions until a large two-story building, one hundred and thirty by eighty feet, is now utilized for its conduct. Later came the purchase of the Bissell chilled plows, manufactured by the Bissell Plow Company of South Bend, Indiana. With the removal of this business to Bellevue the old foundry capacity soon reached its limit and a new foundry was placed in course of construction, ranking today as one of the largest and most modern foundries in Ohio. entirely new power plant was put in operation in the summer of 1909, being driven by electricity and furnishing the power for every department cf the works. With the purchase of the Bissell plow came a largely increased foreign trade for the output had been successfully introduced into European markets. No other agricultural implement factory in this country has enjoyed so rapid and substantial a growth as the Ohio Cultivator Company and throughout the entire period at its head, controlling and directing its interests, has stood H. C. Stahl. Branch houses have been established throughout the country, the company maintaining transfer stocks at Philadelphia; Rochester, New York; Richmond, Virginia; Columbus, Ohio; Lexington, Kentucky ; Indianapolis, Indiana; Peoria, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Des Moines, Iowa ; Wichita, Kansas; and Kansas City, Missouri. The company owns its own building in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where the business has outgrown the facilities of the average transfer or distributing house of agricultural implements and the business is conducted under a branch house management. At Kansas City, another large implement center, the company maintains a branch house manager together with an efficient corps of traveling men, as is done at Council Bluffs. At Dallas, Texas, the business reached such tions that it was deemed advisable to purchase a warehouse, which was secured several years ago. Throughout these years of expansion and advancement, H. C. Stahl has always been the head, managing and directing the affairs of the company to its present successful proporitions. The capital stock has from time to time been increased until it is recorded today at one million dollars. Morecver, the enterprise has been one of immense value to Bellevue where, throughout the busy seascn in normal years, the factory has as high as three hundred men its pay roll, approximately one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars being paid to the emploves. As his associate officers, Mr. Stahl, who is president and treasurer, has A. C. Stahl as vice-president; E. A. King, secretary; C. V. Brown, assistant secretary; J. E. Marvin, auditor; A. C. Dann, superintendent; and Dan Seltzer, assistant superintendent.

Mr. Stahl's hand is also the guiding factor in other enterprises, although the interests of the Ohio Cultivator Company claim the greater portion of his time, attention and energies. He is the president of the Bellevue Savings Bank, is president of the Harrah State Bank, of Harrah, Oklahoma, and is interested in various other organizations. He is likewise the owner of several farms in the immediate vicinity of Bellevue and has considerable land in other sections of the country.

On the 21st of October, 1874, in Southbury, New Haven county, Connecticut, Mr. Stahl was married to Miss Annie C. Mitchell of that place, a daughter of Nelson Warren and Edna Eliza (Platt) Mitchell, who were also natives of Connecticut. Her father married and took his bride to his father's home, there living for fifty years. The old home is still in possession of the Mitchell family. The great-grandfather of Mrs. Stahl was a soldier of the Revolutionary war. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Stahl have been born four children: Edna Rachel, now the wife of Joseph E. Marvin, of Bellevue, Ohio; Alice Emeline, the wife of Daniel Seltzer of Bellevue; Marion Belle, the wife of Henry N. Schofield of Dallas, Texas; and Harlow Mitchell, who was born June 22, 1893, and is now attending the Culver Military College at Culver, Indiana.

Mr. Stahl is a member of the Masonic fraternity, while his political allegiance is given to the republican party. A public spirit and marked philanthropy are strong characteristics of his nature and are manifest in his active aid. and co- operation with every movement tending toward the development and improvement of Bellevue. His life work is notable by reason of the fact that without any especially favoring advantages at the outset of his career, he has worked his way steadily upward, meriting the prosperity that he has enjoyed and which has led him into the most important industrial relations. He is honored and respected for what he has accomplished and none the less so for the means which he has emploved for the attainment of his success.

George H. Gates

George H. Gates, who is serving efficiently as court bailiff of Huron county, is a native son of the Buckeye state, born in Newark, Ohio, May 26, 1858, his parents being Jacob and Rose (Chamberlin) Gates. The father was an engineer on the Pan Handle Railroad and was killed at Coshocton the morning prior to Thanksgiving day of 1872.

George H. Gates, the subject of this review, pursued his early education in the common schools and attended the Newark high school one year. Upon the death of his father, it was necessary that he provide for his own support, and accordingly he secured employment with S. A. Parr, a grocer of Newark, driving a delivery wagon and clerking in the store. At the age of nineteen years, he entered the employ of Cherry & Woolson, proprietors of the eating house of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company at Chicago Junction and Garrett, Indiana, remaining in their employ fifteen years.

Entering public life, Mr. Gates then served as deputy under Sheriff N. O. Allen, four years, while for a similar period, he acted in the same capacity under Sheriff Seneca Rouk. He was then, in 1900, elected sheriff of Huron county on the republican ticket and was re-elected to that office in 1902, which indicated that his services were entirely satisfactory to the public at large. After the expiration of his second term, he was appointed court bailiff and is the present incumbent in that office. He is well qualified to fill the office to the satisfaction of his people and with credit to himself, as he has demonstrated in the past.

Mr. Gates wedded Miss Lizzie A. Wilcox, of Centerton, Ohio, and their union has been blessed with a son and a daughter, Louis W., and Helen M. The family are prominent in the social circles of Norwalk, and all who know them entertain for them high regard, while as a public official, Mr. Gates has won the confidence of all with whom his business relations bring him in contact.

Calvert A. Mead

A well developed and highly improved farm of ninety-three acres, situated within two miles and a half of the courthouse in Norwalk, is not only the present home of Calvert A. Mead, but was the place of his birth and here his entire life has been spent. He was born in a log house on this farm, Tune 9, 1834, and is the youngest in a family of ten children born of the marriage of Edmund W. Mead and Rachel Knapp. The former was born April 4, 1788, while the birth of the latter occurred February 14, 1790. They were married October 2, 181 3, and it was in 1828, that Edmund W. Mead, with his family, then consisting of wife and six children, left their home in Putnam county, New York, and located in Huron county. Four years later, in 1832, the father took up his abode upon the farm which is now the home of his son Calvert A. He followed farming throughout his entire life, was industrious and prudent in his manner of living, and thus acquired a good farm. He eventually retired to private life, spending his last days in Norwalk, where his death occurred April 5, 1876, when he had reached the extreme old age of eighty-eight years. He was a republican in politics and was highly respected in the community in which he so long made his home. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Edmund W. Mead numbered nine children, as follows: Jane E., who was born April 28, 1814; Elizabeth A., born February 26, 1816; Susan, born May 11, 1818; Silas K., November 19, 1820; Almira, born February 13, 1823; Alfred G., July 12, 1825; Rachel, born April 5, 1829; Charles E., Jan- 14, 1832; and Calvert A., born June o, 1834. The last three named were born after the removal of the family to Huron county.

Calvert A. Mead, as above stated, was born on the farm which is still his home. As as boy, he was reared to agricultural pursuits and has made farming his life work. He has improved his place with good substantial buildings, having a comfortable residence and ample outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. The place, comprising ninety-three acres, is conveniently located within two and a half miles of the courthouse in Norwalk. Near the house is a natural spring of water, supplying a small lake, which has been dug by Mr. Mead. He has stocked this with fish and it also affords a place for rowing, which adds greatly to the pleasure of the family and their friends, during the heated season. He formerly gave much of his attention to dairying, supplying a large number of patrons with milk, but he has abandoned this branch of his business and now gives his entire time to the cultivation of crops.

Mr. Mead chose as a companion and helpmate for the journey of life, Miss Ellen Mesnard, who was born April 30, 1836, their marriage being celebrated in 1857. Her father, Eri Mesnard, was of French descent and served as standard county surveyor of Huron county for fourteen years. He surveyed the first railroad in the state of New York and in early life, engaged in teaching school in Ithaca, that state. His death occurred in 1879, and his wife survived for two years, passing away in 1881.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Mead has been blessed with six sons and one daughter, namely: Charles W., Byron L., Albert S., Gertrude Louella, Clayton B., Henry B. and Frank L., but the last named died in 1893. The surviving members of the family are all married. Mr. and Mrs. Mead celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary in 1907, the date being the 24th of March. One peculiar feature on that occasion was the fact that out of a party of twenty-three, who sat together at the table, there was one guest present at the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Mead.

Mr. Mead has always been a stanch supporter of the republican party. A man of high ideals and manly principles, he is greatly respected in the community in which he has always resided, and through the companionship of his estimable wife and the pleasant surroundings of his rural home, he is enabled to live a contended and happy life.

Henry T. Graham

Enterprise, industry, thrift and economy are the characteristic elements in the life of Henry T. Graham, who is numbered among the substantial agriculturists of Fairfield township, where he owns and operates a well improved farm of one hundred and two acres. His birth occurred in Greenfield township, Huron county, on the 22d of July, 1862, his parents being George and Elizabeth (Myers) Graham, the former born in Durham county, England, on the 31st of May, 1836, while the latter's birth occurred in England in August, 1836. They were married ere their emigration to the United States in 1859 and on landing in this country at once made their way to Huron county, Ohio, settling in Greenfield township. There the father continued to make his home until called to his final rest. The mother still survives, however, and now resides in Norwalk, Ohio. Unto this worthy couple were born four children, namely: Henry T., Anna, Elizabeth and George.

General agricultural pursuits have claimed the attention of Henry T. Graham throughout his entire business career and in this field of labor, he has met with well merited and commendable prosperity. He remained a resident of his native township until 1900, when he purchased a farm of one hundred and two acres in Fairfield township and took up his abode thereon. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and each year gathers abundant harvests as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields.

As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life, Mr. Graham chose Miss Grace Ryerson, who was born in February, 1871, her parents being George and Catherine (Edsall) Ryerson. She was one of a family of nine children, her brothers and sisters being as follows: Price, Edsall, George, Delno, Esther, Sarah, Dora and Catherine. Mr. and Mrs. Ryerson were natives of New Jersey, but be- came residents of Huron county, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Graham have one child, Edsall, who first opened his eyes to the light of the day on the 4th of January, 1896.

Mr. Graham's study of the political questions and issues of the day, has led him to give stalwart support to the men and measures of the republican party. He is now serving as a member of the school board, the cause of education ever finding in him a stanch champion. He likewise holds membership relations with the Fairfield Grange. His entire life has been passed in this community, and the fact that those who have known him longest, entertain for him the warmest regard is an indication that his life has ever been honorable and upright.

The prosperity of any community, town or city depends upon its commercial activity, its industrial interests and its trade relations, and therefore among the builders of a town are those who stand at the head of the business enterprises. Prominent among those who are closely identified with the business activity of Greenwich, is Charles A. McCullow, a native of Huron county, Ohio, born in Greenwich township on the 20th of September, 1857, a son of Joseph E. and Agnes (Bartlett) McCullow. The father, who was but four years of age when he accompanied his parents on their removal from New Jersey to Ohio, devoted his entire life to farming pursuits and passed away on the Ist of April, 1900. His wife, whose parents were also natives of New Jersey, was born in Huron county, Ohio, and her death occurred in 1860. But one child came to bless this union, the subject of this review.

Charles A. McCullow acquired his education in the public schools of Greenwich and his boyhood and youthful days were passed on his father's farm, in the performance of the tasks that commonly fall to the lot of the country lad. He remained at home assisting his father until eighteen years of age, when he became a clerk in the general store of Healey & Travis, continuing this relation for two years. Atthe expiration of that period, he went to Cleveland, where he clerked in the store of Louis Leon for one year.

On the 23d of November, 1881, he was united in marriage to Miss Lovezilla L. Riblet, a daughter of David and Caroline (Mathias) Riblet, of Galion, Ohio, and unto this union has been born one daughter, Mabel, now Mrs. D. L. Webb, of Greenwich. Mr. and Mrs. McCullow began their domestic life in Greenwich, where he became identified with the clothing business, in which he has continuously engaged to the present time. He carries a very complete and high grade line of mens' clothing and furnishings and the amount of business transacted over the counters of his store has already reached gratifying proportions and is constantly increasing in volume and importance. His place of business is one of the finest in the town and would be a credit to a city many times the size of Greenwich, while he is recognized as one of the substantial and prosperous citizens of the community.

Not only because of his success in the business world, however, is Mr. Mc- Cullow deserving of mention in this volume, for he is equally well known through his deep interest in public affairs and occupies a prominent position in political circles of his township. He gives his political support to the republican party and although neither desiring nor seeking office as a reward for party fealty, he has, nevertheless, been called by his fellowmen to fill positions of trust and responsibility in the township, which he has represented in the republican county committee for many years and has frequently acted as a delegate to district, county and state conventions. He served as township treasurer for two terms and as village clerk for several years, was a member of the board of trustees of the water works for several terms and served for some time as a member of the board of public service, in which capacity he is still acting. He has also been a member of the village board of education for several years, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion.

Fraternally, Mr. McCullow is a member of Greenwich Lodge, No. 543, F. & A. M., and has filled most of the chairs of that lodge, while he also holds membership in O. K. Lodge, No. 616, K. P., and is a charter member and treasurer of the lodge. He belongs to the Brotherhood of American Yeomen and is a charter member of the Eagle Lodge, No. 22, National Union. His devotion to the public welfare is unquestioned, arising as it does from a sincere desire for the general good. He lends his influence to all movements calculated to advance the public interests and is particularly strong in his advocacy of improvements of the town streets, public buildings and water works. He is very fond of fishing and hunting and as a recreation and relaxation from his work he takes annual trips into the woods and along the streams in the pursuit of his favorite pastimes. However, he is eminently a man of business, never permitting any interruption to distract his attention from his duties, and his close application and good management are potent factors in the prosperity which he now enjoys. Mrs. McCullow is a lady of superior traits of character and presides over her home, which is one of the handsomest in the town of Greenwich, in a charming manner, imparting thereto an atmosphere of refinement and culture which makes it an important factor in the social life of the community.

James P. Limbird

A farm of seventy-eight acres in Ridgefield township, Huron county, pays, tribute to the care and attention bestowed upon it by its owner, James P. Limbird. He was born near Kimball, Erie county, Ohio, on the 1st of February, 1861, and is a son of David and Mary P. (Adams) Limbird. His father, who was born in Lincolnshire, England, in 1834, came to the United States, landing at New York on July 6, 1852. Continuing his way westward, he located in Erie county, Ohio; where he worked for one year, hoeing corn, at first receiving but fifty cents per day in return for his labor. At the expiration of that period, he went to Van Wert county, Ohio, but in the spring of 1856, returned to Erie county and later went to California, where he was engaged in mining and ranching for some time.

In June, 1859, during the great frost, he returned to the middle west and located in Illinois, where he resided for a short time, and then purchased a farm of eighty acres near Kimball, Erie county, Ohio. On the 19th of January, 1860, he married Miss Mary P. Adams, a daughter of John and Anna Adams, and in their family were three children: George, deceased; Olive, who has also passed away; and James P., of this review. Mrs. Limbird, also a native of Lincolnshire, England, was born December 5, 1835. She and her husband still survive and make their home near the subject of this record. David Limbird, had four brothers who served in the Civil war: Anthony, Mark, Richard and James.

Reared under the parental roof, James P. Limbird is indebted to the commonschool system for the education which he acquired. He also early learned the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting through assisting his father, and upon attaining his majority, he wisely decided to make the occupation to which he had been reared, his life wok. He continued to engage in farming in Erie ccunty, until 1907, in which year he purchased his present place from the Bogardus estate. His farm consists of seventy-eight acres of finely improved land with substantial buildings upon it and the excellent appearance which the place eents is indicative of the care and labor expended upon it by its owner. His entire time and attention are devoted to the farm and his business interests are bringing him a gratifying financial return.

Mr. Limbird was united in marriage November 24, 1895, to Miss Anna Moos, a daughter of Edward and Mary Moos, of Erie county, Ohio, and unto this union have been born seven children, of whom Ruth, Grace, James, Helen and Arthur still survive, the others passing away in infancy. Mr. Limbird holds membership in the Congregational church, of which he was a trustee for a number of years and to the support of which he is a liberal contributor. He is a man highly esteemed in the community, his good qualities of heart and mind gaining the warm friendship of many with whom he has come in contact.

Seeley Burdett Palmer

Seeley Burdett Palmer, a retired agriculturist residing in Norwalk, was born in Fitchville, Huron county, Ohio, on the 29th of May, 1848. Being reared on the old homestead farm, he early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist and continued to assist his father in the cultivation of the fields until nineteen years of age. He then became connected with the building department of the Western Union Telegraph Company, putting up wires and working in the eastern part of the United States and Novia Scotia. He was also employed on the construction of the line from St. Louis to Toledo and subsequently worked for Jay Gould in the same capacity for a year and a half. He has a very fine gold watch, chain and charm which were presented to his brother-in-law, D. Doran, by Jay Gould and given to Mr. Palmer by his sister at the time of her husband's death. After leaving the employ of Mr. Gould, our subject resumed the work of general farming, with which line of activity he was successfully identified until the time of his retirement from active busidgWW'Ivd 'd S SHW HN ness life in 1907. He retains possession of the old family homestead of three hundred and fifty acres, which is still under his management and is also the owner of some real estate in Cleveland. On putting aside the active work of the fields, he purchased a lot in Norwalk and erected thereon a handsome brick residence, in which he has since made his home, enjoying in well earned ease, the fruits of his former toil. His energy, economy and perseverance constituted the basis of the prosperity which has crowned his labors and he has long been numbered among the most substantial, enterprising and respected citizens of his native county.

Mr. Palmer has been married twice, the first union being with Miss Iola Martin, whose birth occurred in the year 1859. She passed away in January, 1876, leaving a daughter, Dora, who is now the wife of Hal Amsden. For his second wife, Mr. Palmer chose Miss Elizabeth Chase, whom he wedded on the Ist of May, 1878. Unto them were born the following children. S. Burdett, |c who was born November 13, 1879, married Miss Lena May Jennings and now follows merchandising at Fitchville, where he is also serving as postmaster. Benjamin Chase, who was born April 7, 1881, and married Miss Catherine Kronenbitter, is now manager of the Antiseptic Telephone Company of Los Angeles, California. D. Doran, who was born August 27, 1884, married Miss Evalina White. He was formerly a bookkeeper in the Huron County Bank for three years, but is now engaged in general farming. Lucy Thelma, whose birth occurred on the 25th of October, 1886, gave her hand in marriage to Edwin Martin Thoma. All of these children obtained their education in Fitchville and the sons are graduates of the Sandusky Business College.

Politically Mr. Palmer is a stalwart republican and has capably served his fellow townsmen in the capacity of trustee for several years. He likewise acted as a member of the school board for a long period and has ever been a helpful friend of the cause of public instruction. Fraternally, he is identified with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and is likewise a valued member of the Congregational church, conforming his life to its teachings. At all times his life has been active, useful and honorable and it is his genuine personal worth that has gained for him the favorable position which he occupies in the regard of those who know him.

William Chase, the father of Mrs. Palmer, was born in Hunter, Green county, New York, in June, 1809, and was a brother of the man who is at the head of the Chase Piano Company. It was in 1835 that he came to Ohio and settled in Fitchville township, Huron county, making that his permanent home. He always took a great interest in public affairs, holding many responsible positions in the community where he resided, and in the administration of the different offices of trust that he was called upon to fill, he made a fine reputation, and as a business man was imbued with high principles and sterling integrity. He was twice married, his first union being with Pemelia Wolcott, whom he wedded in 1836 and by whom he had three children, namely: Alvin B.; Mary F.; and Watson D. Both sons enlisted in the Union army during the Civil war, Alvin B. serving for four years with General Sherman, being with that general on his famous march to the sea. Watson D. enlisted in 1864 and served until hostilities ceased, both contracting diseases caused by continuous exposure to all kinds of weather and the hardships incidental to the life of the soldiers, which hastened their deaths in future years. The mother of these children died in 1849 and in 1850, at Norwalk, Ohio, Mr. Chase was united in marriage to Miss Betsy A. Jump, who had come to this city in 1836. After finishing her education in a seminary under the instruction of the Rev. E. and Mrs. Thompson, she engaged in teaching school in Norwalk untii her marriage to Mr. Chase, then going with him to Fitchville, where they toiled together, making for themselves a pleasant and happy home. At that time sewing machines were not in vogue and she spun, cut and made the fabrics into garments for her family. She was not only the seamstress and maid of all work in her own home, but her duties as a wife and mother were always performed with untiring zeal and energy. She was one of the many ladies that helped to prepare boxes of clothing and food for the soldiers who were fighting for their country in the south. By his second marriage Mr. Chase had two children, but Ella E., who was born in 1856, died in 1883, the only survivor being Elizabeth, now Mrs. Palmer, who was born in 1850. The parents were both earnest and consistent members of the Second Congregational church of Fitchville, taking an active interest in religious work, Mr. Chase serving as deacon up to the time of his death and his wife acting as teacher in the Sunday school. He passed away June 17, 1888, on the seventy-ninth anniversay of his birth. After his death, Mrs. Chase remained on the old homestead for about three years and then went to live with her daughter, Mrs. Palmer, dying at her home on the 28th of July, 1893.

George Gates

George Gates, one of Greenfield towuship's native sons and the owner of one hundred and thirty-three acres of land, was born on the 11th of June, 1850. His parents, George and Catherine (Ronk) Gates, were both born in Germany, the father March 14, 1825, the mother March 3, 1824, and there they grew to maturity and were married. Shortly after their union, they came to the United States and about 1850, went to Zanesville, Ohio, where they lived for a short time and then located in Greenfield township, Huron county. The father was a stonemason by trade, and for a few years after his arrival in this country worked in the quarry at the old Lodi Mill, which was not far from the place he had selected for a home. In 1868, he bought a small tract of land in Peru township, which he sold three years later to buy one hundred and eighty acres adjoining it in the northern part of Greenfield township. This second farm remained his home until his death, which occurred on the 3d of October, 1875. He was a consistent member of the Catholic church of the German settlement in Peru township, living up as best he could to its teachings. Mrs. Gates still survives her husband and makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. John Schaffer, of Bronson township, Huron county. Mr. and Mrs. Gates had eight children: Nicholas A., born December 18, 1850, and Frank J., born November 2, 1852, both of whom are residents of this township ; Mary, born September 8, 1864, the wife of Philip Barman, of Peru township; William, born May 20, 1857, a resident of Greenfield township; George, of this sketch;

Julia, born June 21, 1862, now deceased, who was the wife of Delmar C. Burdge; Rose, born July 17, 1864, the wife of John Shaffer, of Bronson township; and Henry, who was born October 19, 1868, and died August 11, 1895.

Greenfield township, the place of his nativity, has been George Gates's home through the greater part of his life. From the public schools of the district he obtained a knowledge of the fundamental branches of an English education and at home received the much more practical schooling for the life of a farmer to which he was to devote himself. At the age of twenty-nine he married and made a home for himself, but it was not until 1905, that he bought his present farm, having in the intervening years tilled the soil and reaped the harvests of land that he rented. He procured his farm from Ernest Chambers, a well improved tract that is excellently adapted to the general farming that Mr. Gates conducts there. He isa public spirited citizen as well as a good farmer, taking especial interest in the cause of education, which he has served in his district as a member of the school board.

On the 17th of January, 1888, at the Bismarck Catholic church Father Titterist pronounced the words that made Mr. Gates and Miss Catherine Hosman man and wife in the eyes of the church and of the law. Mrs. Gates was born in Norwich township, Huron county, February 26, 1864, and is a daughter of Henry and Anna (Weisler) Hosman, both natives of Germany, who shortly after their marriage in that land came to Huron county, Ohio. They settled first in Peru township, and then in Norwich township, which remained their home until their death. The father, who was born July 14, 1828, died November 7, 1904, and the mother, whose birth occurred July 26, 1826, died on the 11th of October, 1898. They were the parents of six children: Mary A., born April 15, 1860; Henry ]., born January 20, 1862; Catherine, now Mrs. Gates; William J., born March 10, 1866; Joseph E., born November 26, 1868; and Albert J., born March 11, 1870.

Of Mr. and Mrs. Gates's union there have been born three children: Rose Bell, born June 25, 1889; Charles B., born January 25, 1893; and Grace, born August r4, 1895. All live at home. Mr. Gates and his family are members of the Catholic church, but in political matters he is not guided by any party, preferring to regard questions of importance from all sides and cast his influence or vote as seems to him right. -

George Bargus

George Bargus, whose life history constitutes a fair record of responsibilities wisely carried, great opportunities turned to the best account, patriotism inspired by a heart loyal to his country in her time of need, is one of Huron county's most prominent citizens and a director in the Huron County Bank, at Norwalk, although he is now living retired in Townsend township. He was born in Newark. New Jersey, April 29, 1839, his parents being William and Charlotte (Argyle) Bargus, the father a native of New Jersey and of German Extraction, and the mother a native of Scotland. Left an orphan in infancy, George Bargus was at an early age thrown upon his own resources. His education, which was ac- quired in the district schools of New Jersey, was superficial and inadequate, although later, he succeeded in acquiring a good, practical English education and this, coupled with his natural ability to cope with intricate business problems, untiring energy and keen sagacity, enabled him to win success in every undertaking. He is largely self-educated, acquiring a remarkably wide range of information from his reading and study. From earliest youth, he maintained an unbounded faith in humanity, finding much to interest him in the newspapers, magazines and his own well supplied library.

When thirteen years of age, Mr. Bargus went to Rochester, New York, where he learned the baker's and confectioner's trade, there serving an apprenticeship of four years. He then journeyed westward but, finding no opening for his trade, he was glad to work at anything that would provide a means of subsistence. During the winter of 1859-60, he traveled through the states of Tennessee, Arkansas and Louisiana, but at the opening of the Civil war he returned to the north, enlisting in Company E, First Battalion of Yates, Sharpshooters 1861, which battalion in 1864 became the Sixty-fourth Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was mustered in as sergeant, but owing to distinguished service and gallantry at the battle of Corinth and in other engagements, he was rapidly promoted through the different ranks to first lieutenant. For more than a year, he commanded his company and was with his regiment in all its marches and campaigns, participating in the battles of New Madrid; Island No. 10; the siege of Corinth ; Resaca, Georgia ; Big Shanty; Kenesaw Mountain; Atlanta, July 22 and also on July 28, 1864; Ezra's church and numerous minor engagements. He was with General Sherman on his famous march to the sea, and during his service sustained several slight wounds. He was mustered out in January, 1865.

When the war was over, Lieutenant Bargus took a commercial course in Oberlin College, after which he went west for one year, when, on returning to Huron county, he settled on a farm in Townsend township, near Collins, where he subsequently engaged in farming and fruit raising. He became a large landowner, his farms at one time containing more than four hundred acres, and he yet owns about three hundred and sixty acres of valuable land, well improved and under a high state of cultivation. For some years, he also owned and operated a sawmill, doing a large business in lumber and timber until April, 1890, when his mills were entirely destroyed by a cyclone.

On the 12th of April, 1866, Mr. Bargus was united in marriage to Miss S. Alice Humphrey, a daughter of William and Sarah Ann (Bierce) Humphrey, natives of Litchfield county, Connecticut. To this union were born four children: George, deceased; Alvin Dudley ; May, deceased; and Edwin Humphrey. The wife and mother died in March, 1895, and Mr. Dargus was again married on the 29th of April, 1896, his second union being with Miss Josie May Ulmer, a daughter of Peter and Mary Ulmer. She passed away in April,

In his political views, Mr. Bargus is an uncompromising republican and while still a youth, became very much interested in the slavery question, his sympathies being with the slave. All his life he has been an active party worker, at all times being able to defend his position with regard to republican principles. Mr. Bargus cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln and was a close personal friend of the late President McKinley and materially assisted in campaign work in Ohio in 1896 and 1900. He is also a great admirer of Ex-President Roosevelt as he is of President Taft. He belongs to no church but he is a firm believer in Christianity of the practical kind. He is a member of Townsend Post, No. 414, C. A. K. of which he was the first commander and served in that position for many years. He also served as general commander of the Fourteenth District Brigade and as assistant inspector and aide-de-camp on the department staff, G. A. R. of Ohio. He likewise acted as colonel, commanding F. H. Boalt Command, No. 17, U. V. U., of Norwalk, Ohio, and as deputy commander of Ohio. He is a inember of the Masonic fraternity and for several years was worshipful master of East Townsend Lodge, No. 322, A. E. & A. M., to which lodge he has belonged for over forty years. He is a member of Huron Chapter, No. 7, B. A. M., and of Norwalk Commandery, No. 18, K. T.

Successful and honorable in business, respected and beloved by his fellow citizens and army comrades, Mr. Bargus is now enjoying rest from his former business activity, and while he yet maintains a personal supervision over his large estate, he spends most of his time in his beautiful country home near Collins. 125$- pecially interested in literature, he finds his chief recreation in the hours spent in his library, which contains many volumes of ancient and modern history, biography and the sciences. A most companionable and kindly man, Mr. Bargus entertains broad, optimistic views of life, has a genuine faith in mankind and is never happier than when giving assistance to those in need who are worthy of that which he can give them. To do right for the love of right has ever been his rule of ac- tion, and his industry, combined with practical common sense, has brought success to all his efforts. Always cheerful and contented, he has gathered around him a circle of friends almost co-extensive with the circle of his acquaintance.

Joseph H. Groff, who now gives his attention to the cultivation of a fine farm of one hundred and fifty-five acres in Peru township, is a native of Germany, his birth having occurred in Baden on the 6th of February, 1841. His parents, Joseph and Grazenaca (Borer) Groff, were likewise natives of the fatherland, the former born on the 20th of January, 1812, and the latter on the 4th of February, 1818. In 1847, they set sail for the new world and after an ocean voyage of about forty days landed on the shores of this country. They established their home at Sandusky, Ohio, and there continued to reside until 1872, when they removed to Cleveland, where they spent their remaining days. The father was called to his final rest in 1891 and the mother passed away in February of the previous year. Unto this worthy couple were born eight children, namely: Joseph H., of this review; Anna, who is deceased, as is also her husband, Fred Berkley ; Vincent W., a resident of Cleveland, Ohio ; Henry, likewise living in Cleveland; John, whose demise occurred when he had attained the age of thirty-seven years ; Louisa, who wedded William Gregory, both she and her husband being now deceased; and two who died in infancy.

Joseph H. Groff, who was a little lad of six years when he accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States, obtained his education in the schools of Sandusky. In the evenings and during the periods of vacation learned the trade of a baker and confectioner under the direction of Adam Miller. in whose employ he remained after completing his schooling, eventually being made foreman of the bakery. At the time of the Civil war, however, he put aside all business and personal considerations and on the 14th of August, 1862, at Sandusky, enlisted for service in the Union army as a member of Company G, One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was organized at Monroeville, Ohio. The regiment was sent to Virginia and participated in a number of hotly contested engagements as well as varicus skirmishes. At the battle of Winchester, from June 13th to 15th inclusive, Mr. Groff was captured with four thousand other men and sent to Libby prison, where he was incarcerated for abcut a week and then taken to Belle Isle, there being imprisoned for about two months. Later, he was paroled. He saw active service in the battles of Appicon, Fisher's Hill, Cedar Creek, Hatchie's Run, Petersburg, High Bridge Appomattox, and when hostilities had ceased, he was mustered out at Camp Chase on the r2th of June, 1865.

Mr. Groff returned home with a most creditable military record and once more became identified with the bakery business at Sandusky, which he followed for a few years. During his arduous experience as a soldier, he had contracted rheumatism and this at length made it necessary for him to abandon the bakery business, after which he secured employment with the Sandusky Tool Company. remaining with that concern for several years. From 1873 until 1891, he capably discharged the duties devolving upon him as a member of the police force and subsequently was employed as a conducter and motorman by the Sandusky & Norwalk Street Railway Company. He remained with the street car company until 1899, when he came to Peru township, Huron county, and purchased a farm of one hundred and fifty-five acres from John Giger, in the cultivation of which he has since been actively and successfully engaged. He has placed a number of substantial improvements on the property and now has one of the finest farms in this section, the well tilled fields annually returning golden harvests as a reward for the care and labor which is bestowed upon them.

On the 6th of August, 1863, at Sandusky, Ohio, Mr. Groff, was united in marriage to Miss Mary Fritz, the wedding ceremony being performed by Father N. Mose. Mrs. Groff was born at Alsace, Lorriane, Germany, on the 2oth of June, 1836, her parents being Mr. and Mrs. John M. Fritz, who took up their abode at Frank in Thompson township, Seneca county, Ohio, after coming to this country. She was a little maiden of eight years when she left her native land. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Groff were born seven children, as follows: Mary, who died in infancy; Joseph, who wedded Miss Carrie Sherer and lives at Sandusky, Ohio; Mary, also a resident of Sandusky, who is the wife of H. S. Arnold, by whom she has four children: Mary, Louisa, Walter and Joseph; Catherine and Lawrence, who are at home; Anna, the wife of George Smith, of Sandusky, Ohio; and John, who is likewise at home. The wife and mother passed away on the 29th of March, 1900, her remains being interred in St. Mary's cemetery at Sandusky, where her father also lies buried.

still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in the Grand Army post at Norwalk, Ohio. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Catholic church of Sherman township. His life has been an active, useful and honorable one and he well merits the respect and esteem which are uniformly accorded him.

Spiller M. Sly, a farmer of Fitchville township, who has filled several of the local offices of government, was born in Milan, Erie county, Ohio, September 15, 1845, and is the son of Willard and Martha J. (Laughlin) Sly.

The mother was born in Gallia county, Ohio, but the father's birthplace was New York state. He was but a young man, however, when in 1843, he came to Ohio and commenced farming. In 1845, he came to Fitchville, township, Huron county, where he lived until the excitement consequent to the discovery of gold in California aroused a spirit of unrest in his breast. In the spring of 1852, he joined the vast army of gold seekers on the overland trail, from which he was destined never to return. For four years his family heard from him regularly, and then no word at all. It was known that he had engaged extensively in the horse business and had bought a large drove of animals which he intended bringing to the eastern markets to dispose of, and it is supposed that in crossing the plains, he wag attacked by Indians and murdered. He left a widow and a son, Spiller M., to mourn his loss. Mrs. Sly died in September, 1893.

Spiller M. Sly was reared as a farmer's boy, largely under his mother's guidance. He attended the county schools during the winter months and made the best use of the small opportunities they afforded for obtaining an education. At the age of twenty-five, he undertook the responsibilities of a home of his own and purchased a farm in Fitchville township on which he has lived for the past twentyseven years. It is a splendid tract of land lying just beyond the village of Fitchville, is well improved and under a fine state of cultivation. On it he pursues general farming and raises a large amount of stock. Mr. Sly was one of the organizers of the Clinton Air Line Telephone Company in 1903, was one of the charter members of the concern and one of its first board of directors. At present, he is vice-president of the company, which has for the past three years had the telephone exchange in his house. He has also rendered other valuable service to the people of this township. For twelve years, he filled the position of township clerk, an able official, was trustee for three years, and is now and has been for many years, a member of the school board.

On the 15th of March, 1870, was celebrated Mr. Sly's marriage to Miss Josie Pierce, the daughter of Philo and Elizabeth (White) Pierce, of Fitchville township, where Mr. Pierce engaged in farming. The mother was born here, the father in New York state, but both the White and Pierce families were among the early settlers in this county and were influential in its affairs and in promoting its growth and advancement. Mr. Pierce died June 20, 1901, his wife having preceded him to the grave some years, her death having occurred November 29, 1895.

To Mr. and Mrs. Sly have been born four children: John W., who is married and is a farmer of Fitchville township ; Elizabeth, the wife of John Buck, of Cleveland, Ohio; Dorothy, now Mrs. William E. Glossup of Louisville, Kentucky ; and Marguerite, a teacher in the schools of Fitchville. The family are members of the Baptist church and are identified closely with its work.

Mr. Sly is a republican, though he does not take a very active part in political affairs. However, he never fails to cast his vote on election day and has on several occasions been a delegate to county, district and state conventions. He is a charter member of Tent No. 125, Knights of the Maccabees, has filled every office of the order, and has been otherwise very active in the affairs of the local lodge. the Baptist church, he has for a number of years filled the position of trustee, for ne is a man who inspires the confidence of his fellows, and time has proved that this reliance is not misplaced. His record as the incumbent of every office has been clean, and the public spirit that rules his acts has led him to promote eagerly the welfare and advancement of the township.

Alonzo L. Simmons

Alonzo L. Simmons, whose demise occurred on the 8th of July, 1908, was long numbered among the substantial and leading citizens of Huron county. He was born in Greenfield township, this county, on the 6th of December, 1835, and comes of good old Revolutionary stock, his paternal great-grandfather, Edward Simmons, having served as captain in the Continental line of Massachusetts until the surrender of Yorktown. He was a miller by trade and made his home in Rehoboth, Bristol county, Massachusetts. In his family were four children: Edward, who settled in New Hampshire and became a prominent judge; Noble, a blacksmith, who made his home in New York state; William, who died in Massachusetts ; and Eliphalet B., the grandfather of our subject. Thelast named was born in Bristol county, Massachusetts, in 1773, and was there reared to manhood, removing to Delaware county, New York, 1804. In the latter place he was engaged in the lumber business for thirteen years and while a resident there he was married to Miss Esther Brown, a daughter of Captain Charles Brown, of New London, Connecticut. In 1817 he started for the Firelands of Ohio, making the trip by wagon, arriving here on the 12th of July of that year. He purchased land in Greenfield township, Huron county, where as a pioneer he engaged in the improvement and cultivation of the land and in the midst of the wilderness developed a fine farm. As time passed he prospered in his undertakings and eventually acquired a large property. After a useful and well spent life he died at his home in Greenfield township, January 26, 1836, when in his sixty-third year. He was a democrat in politics and always took an active interest in public affairs. He was twice married and had a family of four children, namely: Harlon E., Charles B., Albert and Washington L.

Of this family Harlon E. Simmons was the father of our subject. He was born in Rehoboth, Bristol county, Massachusetts, December 14. 1798, and was twentyone years of age when he started for the Firelands, where his father had located two years previously. With one horse and an open wagon he journeyed from Massa- chusetts to Ohio, starting in October and arriving in his father's home in Huron county in December, 1819, after about six weeks spent on the road. He purchased land near his father's home and at once commenced its cultivation and improvement. In 1827, however, he returned to Massachusetts, where on the 17th of July of that year he was married to Miss Ann Ide, a daughter of Joseph Ide, of Attleboro, Bristol county, and accompanied by his bride he then returned to his Ohio home. They became the parents of six children, namely: Rufus A., Abby N., L. Curtiss, Alonzo L., Emily and Ann. The father passed away March 21, 1875, at the age of seventy-seven years, and the mother departed this life on the 3oth of May, 1877. He took quite an active part in public affairs. The first singing school as well as the first choir in Greenfield township was organized under his leadership. In politics he was originally a Jacksonian democrat but in 1856, on the organization of the republican party, he joined its ranks.

Alonzo L. Simmons was reared under the parental roof and obtained his early education in the district schools of his home neighborhood. He also attended the high school at Norwalk and North Fairfield, and for seven years he engaged in teaching during the winter months, while the summers were devoted to the work ofthe farm. He eventually became the owner of several hundred acres of rich and productive land, which returned to him a gratifying annual income. 1871 he purchased an interest in the Phoenix gristmill, to the operation and management of which he devoted much time and attention throughout the remainder of his active business career. He likewise served as the vice-president of the North Fairfield Savings Bank until the time of his death and was well known and highly esteemed as a most prosperous, progressive and representative citizen of his native county. The success which attended his undertakings was entirely the result of his untiring industry and capable management and he justly earned the proud American title of a self-made man.

On the 24th of April, 1862, Mr. Simmons was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Elizabeth Minges, who was born in Seneca county, Ohio, on the 28th of February, 1842. Her father, John E. Minges, was born in September, 1813, in Fayette township, Seneca county, New York, and during his boyhood developed rare mechanical genius, being able to work at several trades. In 1833 he came to Ohio, following his father, John Minges, who was drowned while crossing Lake Erie, and the son came on to Huron county to settle up the estate and take charge of the property. After working for sonie time on a farm in Greenefild township he removed to Seneca county, Ohio, where he purchased land and turned his attention to its development and cultivation. On the 12th of June, 1836, Mr. Minges was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Seed, who was born in New York, May 25, 1819, and came west with her parents, locating in Venice township, Seneca county. She died May 12, 1839, leaving no children, and was buried at Attica, Ohio. Mr. Minges was again married April 27, 1841, his second union being with Miss Lydia E. Wilbur, who was born in Cayuga county, New York, January 30, 1820, a daughter of Nathan and Esther (LaBarre) Wilbur. In 1826 her parents settled in Sherman township, Huron county, where they passed the remainder of their lives. Their children were: Caroline E.; Sarah Jane; Esther Cornelia; John; and Emeline E. The children born to John E. and Lydia F. Minges were: Margaret E., the widow of Alonzo L. Simmons, of this review ; Flora M., the wife of Frank Marriott, a law- yer of Delaware, Ohio ; and Dessie M., the wife of George A. Waggaman, a broker of New York city. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Marriott are: John Minges; Wilbur McClellan; Florence Dale; Francis Marion; and Merrick Joy. In 1855 Mr. Minges returned to Huron county and located in North Fairfield village. He had previously engaged in merchandising at Attica and in this county he continued to carry on the same business for scme time before establishing himself on a farm in Greenfield in 1858. Ten years later he removed to Peru township, where he was variously employed until his death, which occurred on the 26th of January, 1885. He was widely known as an active and enterprising citizen and had the respect and confidence of ali with whom he came in contact. His political support was given to the republican party and prior to the Civil war he was a stanch abolitionist, carrying his principles into practice by harboring fugitive slaves. religious faith he was a Wesleyan Methodist.

In his political views Mr. Simmons was a stanch republican and for a number of years served as trustee in both Greenfield and Fairfield townships. He was a great lover of music and, being a vocalist of considerable ability, his services as a singer were much in demand at social gatherings. His death, which occurred on the 8th of July, 1908, when he had attained the age of seventy-two years, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for he had an extensive circle of friends throughout this county, where his entire life was spent. His widow still survives and is now very comfortably situated financially. She is a gentle, kindly woman, charitable in her estimate of every one and her many excellent traits of heart and mind have won for her the esteem and admiration of a host of warm friends.

August Bores

August Bores has found in the rich, fertile soil of Huron county ample scope for his activities, and in the years that have come and gone has accumulated a valuable property, comprising one hundred and twenty-six acres of land in Sherman township, on which he resides, while he also owns another farm of one hundred and eighty-six acres in the same township. His birth occurred in Pontiac, Huron county, Ohio, on the 1st of March, 1862, his parents being David and Anna Marie (Fauchinger) Bores. His paternal grandparents, John and Catherine (Klepel) Bores, spent their entire lives in Germany. The grandfather was a soldier in the German army and participated in the war with France, fighting against Napoleon. Unto him and his wife were born five children, namely: John; Louis; Elizabeth ; David; and Minnie, who is now the wife of Philip Thoma, an agriculturist of Peru township, this county. The two last named are the only members of the family who crossed the Atlantic and established their home in the United States.

David Bores, the father of August Bores, was born in Germany on the 22d of January, 1833, and made the voyage to this country in the year 1853, in company with his sister Minnie. After landing in New York, he at once made his way to Ridgefield township, Huron county, Ohio, where for three years he worked by the month as a farm hand. About 1856, he rented a tract of land and was successfully and energetically engaged in its operation for a period of six years. By dint of close economy and careful expenditure, he at length accumulated capital sufficient with which to purchase a farm of his own and eventually became recognized as one of the substantial and enterprising agriculturists as well as representative citizens of the community. He now owns a well improved farm of two hundred and forty acres in Sherman township, which annually returns to him a gratifying income. His political allegiance is given to the democracy and he has served as road supervisor and also as trustee of Sherman township, holding the latter position for twelve years. In the year 1855, he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Marie Fauchinger, a native of Germany, who came to the United States in company with her brother Joseph. They became the parents of six children, as follows: Joseph, who is now deceased; Elizabeth, the wife of C. Wilhelm; Henry; August, of this review; John; who is the wife of William Ringlein.

August Bores, whose name introduces this record, obtained his education in the district schools and early in life became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist through the assistance which he rendered his father in the cultivation of the home farm. He has always given his attention to the work of the fields and that his efforts in this direction have met with success is indicated by the fact that he is now the owner of two well improved and valuable farms in Sherman township, comprising one hundred and twentysix and one hundred and eighty-six acres of land respectively.

On the rst of June, 1886, Mr. Bores was joined in wedlock to Miss Helen Bauman, a daughter of John and Barbara Bauman, whose family numbered three children, as follows: Emma, the wife of Anthony Hammersmith ; Mary, who gave her hand in marriage to Henry Bores, a brother of our subject ; and Helen, now Mrs. August Bores. The mother of these children has passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Bores now have five children: Otto, who was born in 1887 ; Alpha, whose birth occurred in 1889 ; Rosa, born in 1891 ; August, 1893; and Arthur, 1900.

L:ke his father, Mr. Bores is a stalwart advocate of the principles of the democratic party and has served as a member of the school board and also in the position of road supervisor. Fraternally, he is identifed with the Knights of Columbus at Monroeville, Ohio, in which organization his sons, Otto and Alpha, also hold membership. The different members of the family all belong to the Catholic church. Throughout the county in which his entire life has been spent, Mr. is well and favorably known, having won the kindly esteem and regard of all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact.

Price Venostran Ryerson

Price Venostran Ryerson, who for the past five years has been living retired in North Fairfield, was formerly actively and successfully identifed with the agricultural interests of Huron county, owning a farm in Peru township. His birth occurred in this county on the 6th of November, 1851, his parents being George M. and Sarah Catherine (Edsall) Ryerson. The paternal grandíather, Peter Ryerson, had a family of eleven children, namely: Paul, Nicholas, John,

Martin, Dolly, Jane, Libby, Eliza, Sarah, William and George M. The maternal grandparents of our subject were David and Hannah (Perry) Edsall, the latter being an aunt of O. H. Perry, of Lake Erie fame. Their family numbered nine children, as follows: Joseph, Benjamin, John, Brice, William, Thomas, Margaret, Hannah and Sarah Catherine. George M. Ryerson, the father of Price V. Ryerson, who was born on the boundary line between New Jersey and New York about 1824, passed away in the year 1902. The birth of his wife occurred in Vernon, New Jersey, in 1830. Unto this worthy couple were born the following children: Price V., Edsall Farber, George E., Deleno P., Sarah, Esther, Dora, Catherine and Grace.

Throughout his active business career Price V. Ryerson was engaged in general agricultural pursuits in Peru township and, though he has now been living retired for five years, still owns his farm there. The success which attended his labors as an agriculturist, was entirely the result of his untiring industry and capable mangement, and he has long been numbered among the substantial, enterprising and respected citizens of his native county. As stated above, he now makes his home in North Fairfield.

On the Ist of January, 1879, Mr. Ryerson was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Hinkley, whose birth occurred in Bronson township, Huron county, on the 16th of June, 1857, her parents being William S. and Lucy (Snyder) Hinkley. Her paternal grandparents, Benjamin and Maria (Paine) Hinkley, were both natives of Tompkins county, New York, born in the years 1809 and 1811 respectively. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Ryerson were John and Harriett (Watros) Snyder, both of whom were natives of the Empire state, the former born in 1804 and the latter in 1818. Their children were eight in number, as follows: Henry, Vincent, Sylvester, John, Maria, Lucy, Caroline and one who died in infancy. The great grandparents of Mrs. Ryerson on the maternal side were Peter and Hannah (Wells) Snyder, the former being a native of Holland. William S. Hinkley, the father of Mrs. Ryerson, was born near Syracuse, New York, on the 17th of October, 1832, while the birth of his wife occurred near Catskill, Greene county, New York, on the 26th of April, 1837. Unto Price V. and Mary (Hinkley) Ryerson has been born one child, Roxy, whose natal day was January 23, 1808.

Mr. Ryerson is now serving as trustee and treasurer in the Methodist church, of which he is a most consistent and faithful member. Having spent their entire lives in this county, both he and his wife are widely and favorably known within its borders, their many excellent traits of character having gained them the warm regard and esteem of all with whom they have been associated.

William H. Darling

No history of Huron county would be complete without special mention of William H. Darling, who for a long period has been closely identified with the public interests of this, his native county. Born in Hartland township on the 25th of April, 1867, he is a son of John B. and Mary E. (Noble) Darling, the former a native of Northumberland county, England. He came alone to the United States when twenty-seven years of age and settled in New York, where he followed the machinist's trade which he had learned in his native country. Laterhe went to Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, where he engaged as foreman or master mechanic in the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad shops, while the year 1860 witnessed his arrival in Ohio, locating in Norwalk, where for a time he was employed in the railroad shops. Subsequently, he was compelled to give up this line of activity on account of failing health, and he purchased a farm in Hartland township, where he resided until his death, which occurred in August, 1903. His widow and three children still survive him, the children being: Jennie, now the wife of F. H. Rumsey of North Fairfield; Sate B., a teacher in the Shelbyville, Illinois, schools; and William H., of this review. One daughter, Annie, passed away when five years of age.

Spending the years of his boyhood and youth on his father's farm, William H. Darling attended the district schools in the acquirement of his early education and later supplemented this training by a course at the Western Reserve Normal School at Milan, while he also pursued a course at the Northwestern University at Ada, Ohio. Thus well equipped, he took up the occupation of teaching and for several years was engaged in that capacity in the schools of Huron county, proving a most capable instructor who imparted readily and clearly to others the knowledge he.had acquired. Giving up that profession, he took a course of study in the Euclid Avenue Commercial College, at Cleveland, with the idea of entering the business world. The failure of his father's health, however, caused his return to the home farm, where he decided to remain and take charge of his father's interests. He has since continued to make the old homestead his place of residence and has directed his efforts to the further cultivation and improvement of the place, his activity along general agricultural lines meeting with most gratifying and substantial success.

On the 25th of January, 1904, Mr. Darling was united in marriage to Miss Jane Chaffee, a daughter of George W. and Anna (Phillip) Chaffee, of Hartland township, where both parents were born and have always resided. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Darling has been blessed with one daughter, Dorothy B., who is the life and light of the household. Fraternally Mr. Darling is connected with East Townsend Lodge, No 322, E. & A. M., and also with Olena Tent, No. 58, K. O. T. M., in the affairs of which he is deeply and helpfully interested.

Although Mr. Darling has become well known throughout the locality by reason of the success that he has achieved in his business activities, it is, however, the active part which he has taken in the public affairs of Huron county that has brought him prominently before his fellow citizens and has made him one of the valued representatives of the community. Republican in politics, he has always done all in his power to further the influence of that party in the district and has been a prominent and influential figure in the party councils. For several years, he served as county central committeeman and 15 constantly being sent as a delegate to the district, county and state conventions. His fellow citizens, recognizing his ability and worth, have frequently called him to office, and tor a number of years he served as township clerk and also clerk of the board of education for the township, which positions he still holds. He is also acting as justice of the peace and was census enumerater for Hartland township in 1890. In 1908, he was the candidate on the republican ticket for county recorder, but with the rest of the ticket was defeated. He had been nominated by acclamation, a very rare occurrence in Huron county politics. He is now serving as notary public and carries on considerable business in that connection. A man of splendid attainments, he performed the duties of each office in such a capable and satisfactory manner, that his efforts reflected honor not orly upon himself but also upon his constituents. Progressive in his citizenship, he is an advocate of advancement and improvement in all forms, but he is especially zealous in the matter of good roads and advanced schools, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion. His various interests have made his a well rounded nature and he stands today as a splendid type of the high-minded American gentleman, with whom contact means expansion and elevation. [Turon county is proud to number him among her native sons

George W. Sherman

George W. Sherman owns and operates a good farm of sixty-one acres of land in Lyme township, and his business qualifications and his genuine personal worth entitle him to mention with the representative citizens of Huron county. A native of this township, he was born a half mile south of Hunts Corners on the 22d of April, 1861, a son of Samuel and Mary Ann (Carpenter) Sherman, old settlers of this district. The parents were natives of England, the father's birth occurring Marcb 9, 1838, while the mother's natal was March 20, 1843. Samuel Sherman was but fourteen years of age when he left England with his father, William H. Sherman, and his brother. Joseph, and came to Ohio, locating in this county. The father, however, did not remain in this country, but returned to England, leaving his son Samuel with Alonzo Husted, to whom he was bound out as a farm hand to work until twenty-one years of age, when he was to receive one hundred dollars and two suits of clothes. He worked so diligently and faithfully, however, that at the age of twenty years Mr. Husted released him and offered him the money and clothing. He accepted the latter but left the money with his former employer on interest. He then worked for Luther Avery for eleven dollars per month, until, by earnest toil and careful expenditure, he had saved another one hundred dollars. He then drew his original one hundred dollars from Mr. Husted, with the interest which had accumulated in the meantime, and embarked in business on his own account, renting a farm of Mr. Husted on shares. About this time he married Miss Mary Ann Carpenter and afterward purchased thirty acres of land which now forms a part of the farm owned by his son George W. the years came and went he was successful in his undertaking and by judicious investments extended his possessions until his home farm consisted of sixty-one acres and he had accumulated other property throughout the county, his holdings today amounting to three hundred acres of land, aside from the tract now owned by the subject of this review. He is a prominent member of the Episcopal church, regulating his life at all

George W. Sherman came to his present home when four years of age and has since lived in this county, spending his boyhood days in the acquirement of an education as a pupil of the district schools. When not busy with his text-books he devoted his time to the tasks that usually fall to the lot of the farm lad and at an early period became familiar with the work of the fields, assisting more fully as his age and strength permitted, so that he was well equipped to take up the work on his own account when, after attaining his majority, he secured the farm upon which he now resides. It consists of sixty-one acres. It is a finely improved property that yields abundant harvests in return for the care and labor expended upon it. He is a progressive, up-to-date farmer, capably managing his business interests, and the success which he has attained ranks him among the representative agriculturists of his township.

Mr. Sherman was married on the 26th of January, 1887, to Miss Florence Sarah Fry, a native of England and a daughter of David and Martha (Button) Fry, also natives of that country, the former born in 1847 and the latter in 1848. Leaving their native land at an early date, they became early settlers in this county, where they still make their home. Mrs. Sherman is the eldest of a family of six children, the family remaining unbroken by the hand of death. The others are Byron W., Daisy S., Roland G., Elizabeth M. and Alice. As the years have and gone the home of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman has been blessed with six children, namely, David H., Mildred P., Frank T., Clements G., Blanche G., and Joseph B., all of whom are still under the parental roof.

Mr. Sherman holds membership in the Lyme Trinity church, while his fraternal relations are with the Woodmen of the World, Camp No. 40. He also is a member of the Protective Horse Association of Lyme township. He is a member of the school board and has served thereon for several terms. His political allegiance is given to the republican party, but he does not seek public office as a reward for party fealty, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his personal affairs. He is, however, public spirited, taking a helpful interest in all matters pertaining to the material, intellectual and moral welfare of the community, while his personal traits of character have gained him the esteem and good will of his fellowmen.

Wakeman O. Maynard

Wakeman O. Maynard, of Greenwich township, was born September 21, 1849, in Peru, Huron county, his parents being John G. and Angeline (Osborne) Maynard. Both the Maynard and Osborne families were originally from Tompkins county, New York, and came to Huron county when John G. and Angeline were young people, the latter becoming a teacher in the county schools and following that occupation until marriage. They were farming people, and became prominent and influential in their chosen occupation.

The family of John C. Maynard consisted of five children: Charlotte A., Wakeman O., John T., Ornan A. and Louis, two of whom, Charlotte A. and Louis, are deceased and lie buried in the Edwards Grove cemetery in Ripley township. Here also the mother was laid to rest in the summer of 1885, and the father in the fall of 1887.

Wakeman O. Maynard had no educational privileges or opportunities outside of the district schools of Ripley township, except one term in a select school in Greenwich. He grew to manhood on the home farm, assisting in the usual work and manifold cares of the business, unconsciously adding to a meager school education the experience and handicraft of manual labor.

On September 6, 1886, Mr. Maynard married Miss Almeda Burge, one of the successful and popular teachers of the county, who was a daughter of Benjamin and Catherine Burge. death occurred in 1895, and left a vacant place in the wide circle in which she moved, for, during the years she taught, she made many true friends who held her in high esteem. September 21, 1897, occurred the second marriage of Mr. Maynard, his wife being Miss Isabella Lowrie, a daughter of David and Agnes (Smith) Lowrie, of Cleveland, Ohio. Before her marriage Mrs. Maynard was a teacher of ability and a great favorite of patrons and pupils. To meet her is to meet a cultivated and superior mind, an intelligent and hospitable woman, and to know her is to know a friend and companion.

Mr. Maynard has lived on the farm where he now resides since 1886. It is located one mile northeast of the village of Greenwich, and consists of one hundred and thirty-two acres of well improved land under a high state of cultivation - a farm to be proud of.