Huron County, Ohio - The whole text, 1909 (part 20 of 29)

William E. Joiner

William E. Joiner, who has the distinction of being the oldest assessor in Greenfield township and in fact in Huron county, was born in the house in which he now lives, September 8, 1839, and is the son of Azias and Philura (Newberry) Joiner. The father was born July 20, 1797, in Colerain township, Hampshire county, Massachusetts, where his father, William Joiner, was a schoo! teacher. In the spring of 1818 he came to this county from Cayuga county, New York, having made the greater part of the journey on foot. He bought a tract of two hundred and fifty acres in Greenfield township and in 1825 returned to Connecticut to obtain the deed to his land. He came back immediately and made this farm his home until his death. In 1831 he married Miss Philura Newberry, who for almost half a century was his companion on the highroad of life, enduring the hardship of living in an uncleared forest, for Mr. Joiner had much work to do before he could cultivate his land. Unto them were born three children: William E., of this review; Wallace O., born March 22, 1842, a resident of Hillsdale, Michigan; and Mary, who was born January 5, 1844, and died October 1871. She was the wife of Watson T. Smith, also deceased. Mrs. Joiner was called to her final rest December 29, 1887, and her husband followed in a little more than a year, his death occurring May 16, 1889. He was a man of fine education and a great reader, who had ever evinced a fondness for mathematics. He was a public-spirited man as well and had heid the office of township trustee. In the affairs of life he had prospered, through hard work, careful attention to details, and good management.

William E. Joiner has lived on his present farm all his life. He was permitted a longer school period than many youths of the country can enj oy, for he was twenty-three before he discontinued his lessons. He took a course in double and single entry bookkeeping tor he had looked forward to entering the commercial world and winning success and a reputation as an accountant. It was his father's wish, however, that he return to the farm and conduct its affairs - a wish in which the son acquiesced. He has been fortunate in his agricultural experiments, his fields are models o£ careful cultivation and his crops reveal what hard work may do. He has also entered into the life of the township. He is known as the oldest assessor of Huron county having been first elected thirty years ago on the republican ticket. He has since served sixteen years, and on the occasion of one election received all but one of the votes cast in his township.

On the 14th of September, 1865, Elder Hahurst pronounced the words that made William E. Joiner and Miss Emma L. May man and wife. The ceremony was performed at North Fairfield, Ohio, and the union has been blessed with two children: Erminnie L., born March 17, 1867, became the wife of Charles H. Swigard, a civil engineer, who has charge of the irrigation improvements in the state of Washington, but she died June 26, 1801. They have one child, Minnie L., who lives with her grandfather, William E. Joiner. Hattie, the second daughter, married E. H. Bouten and lives at North Fairfield, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Joiner have also reared a niece, Dessie, the daughter of Watson F. Smith, who is now married to George Trimmer and lives at Peru, Ohio.

Mr. Joiner is a member of the Congregational church and takes a prominent part in its work. A man of ability and unquestioned integrity, he has won a place in the hearts of the residents of his township, as was attested by the fact that there was but one dissenting vote at his election to the position he has held so long, and in fulfilling the duties of which he takes such a pride.

William Hamilton McPherson, Sr., a prosperous and progressive agriculturist of Bronson township, where he owns a farm comprising one hundred and sixty-one acres of land, was born in Greenfield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 14th of June, 1842, his parents being James and Jane (Arthur) McPherson. The father was born in Scotland in 1814 and in early life accompanied his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William McPherson, on their removal to Londonderry, Ireland, but a few years later the family came to this country, locating on the farm in Bronson township, Huron county, Ohio, where our subject now makes his home and where his grandfather died. His father, James McPherson, became a resident of Greenfield township and lived there until his death. In his family were three sons: George, John and William H. Our subject's maternal grandparents were John and Mattie (Easterly) Arthur.

William H. McPherson, of this review, remained a resident of his native township until he came into possession of his grandfather's old homestead in Bronson township in 1888, living here continuously since. He is now the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of rich and productive land, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devotes his time and energies. In the operation of his farm he displays practical and effective methods which produce good results, as seen in the abundant harvests which he annually gathers.

Mr. McPherson has been married twice, his first union being with Miss Lucy Wheeler, a daughter of John Wheeler, by whom he had three children: Arthur,

William H. and Scott. Fcllowing the death of his first wife he was again married, on the 29th of June, 1881, his second union being with Miss Margaret Mutch, whose birth occurred April 28, 1861. parents, Samuel and Elizabeth (Davidson) Mutch, were natives of Scotland and, emigrating to America about 1858, first located in Canada but subsequently crossed the border into the United States. By his second wife Mr. McPherson has two children, namely: Clyde, born in 1883; and Glenn, who was born in 189o.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. McPherson has given his support to the men and measures of the republican party and is at present serving as a trustee of Bronson township. Fraternally he is identified with the Maccabees, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church at Olena, Ohio. In the county where he spent his entire life, now covering a period of more than two-thirds of a century, he has gained an extensive circle of warm friends by reason of his upright and honorable manhood.

Philip Herner

Philip Herner, numbered among the successful and enterprising agriculturists of Peru township, owns a half interest in the farm oi one hundred and eightyseven acres on which he resides with his brother Fred. He was born in Sherman township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 12th of December, 1862, his parents being Phedius and Lena (Hilderbrand) Herner, both of whom were natives of Germany. In early manhood the father crossed the Atlantic to the United States and took up his abode in Sherman township, this county, where he made his home throughout practically the remainder of his life, devoting his attention to the cultivation of a farm of eighty acres which he had purchased. His demise occurred in Peru township in 1905, when he had attained the age of sixty-eight years, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1904 at the age of sixty-seven years.

Their union was blessed with thirteen children, the record of whom is as follows: Mary, who is the wife of Christ Bauman and resides in Indiana ; Margaret, who gave her hand in marriage to Lawrence Linder, of Peru township ; Phedius, living in Peru township; Emma, who is deceased; Philip, of this review; Elizabeth, who is the wife of George Schild and makes her home in Peru township; Kathryn, the wife of Charles Schild, who likewise resides Peru township ; William, of Monroeville, Ohio; Jacob, who has passed away; Minnie, who is the wife of Albert Heyman, of Sherman township; Charles, living in Greenfield township; Fred, who wedded Miss Minnie Herbin, by whom he has two children, Gilbert K. and Arthur F.; and Lottie, who is also deceased.

Philip Herner spent the first ten years of his life in Sherman township and obtained his education in the district and German schools at Pontiac. Since the age of ten years he has made his home in Peru township and has always followed agricultural pursuits as a means of livelihood. The farm of one hundred and eighty-seven acres which he owns in partnership with his brother Fred was purchased by them from their father and they have brought the property under a high state of cultivation and improvement, Alert, enterprising and progressive, they have met with a well merited measure of prosperity in their farming operations and have gained favorable recognition as representative and substantial citizens of the community. The brothers belong to the Lutheran church at Pontiac and their honorable and upright lives have made them well worthy the regard which is uniformly accorded them.

M. C. Price needs no introduction to the readers of this volume for he is at the head of the Norwalk Piano Company, one of the leading commercial institutions of the city of Norwalk. Moreover he is a worthy and honored representative of one of the oldest and best known families of this part of Ohio. He comes of a family of English-Welsh descent and the sterling qualities of the founder have been reproduced in the descendants. The Prices and Hatfields are supposed to have laid out the city of Baltimore, Maryland, and in 1664, Christopher Price leased Price's Commons, now an important part of the city, for ninety-nine years. He afterward exchanged his lease of land for a horse which he mounted and rode over the mountains to Lexington, Kentucky, where he reared his large family. His descendants have never sought to figure prominently in public life, but have been of the solid and substantial men and women of their various communities where they have acquired good homes and won honorable names. Of this family, Governor Price, the founder of Leesville, Ohio, is a representative. When on a visit to Pennsylvania, he met Miss Sarah Rippeth, who afterward became his wife. They returned to Lexington, Kentucky, and to them were born the following named: Kit, William, James, John, Joseph, Basil, Joshua, Benjamin, Linda, the wife of John N. Adair, a merchant and hatter ; Anna, the wife of Dr. Lawthers; Mrs. Sarah Smith; Elizabeth, who became the wife of Dr. Watkins; and Mrs. Rebecca Brisbin. In about 1812, Governor Price rode on horseback from Lexington, Kentucky, and spent the night in a log cabin where the cemetery is now located. He bought a tract of land and returned to Lexington and when he again came to Ohio made his way up the river to Steubenville, a sparsely settled town. He was accustomed to hard work and immediately commenced the task of felling the trees and building a log cabin but the primitive home was soon afterward replaced by a brick dwelling. The family made their linen from the flax which they grew and their sugar from the maples in their camp. Governor Price was a farmer, but much of his time was spent in clearing land. He laid out the town of Leesville and at a public dinner the lots were sold at auction. In early manhood, he became a member of the Baptist church, but afterward united with the Universalist church and always took an active part in its meetings. He lived a life of usefulness and died honored by all. His sons settled principally near Leesville, although a few of the family went west.

James Price of this family was born at Lexington, Kentucky, November 17, 1799. He came up the river with is father, Governor Price, in a rowboat when about two years old and when they stopped for dinner, he was left on the bank and was not missed until they were several miles up the stream when the family returned for him. As a boy, he assisted in clearing up the land and afterward, learned the cabinetmaker's trade, becoming an expert workman. On the 14th of June, 1821, he married Miss Mary Holmes, a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Holmes. She died October 2, 1865, and James Price afterward wedded Mrs. Gartrell. Mr. Price lived to see cities established where forests stood and the few friendly Indians disappear before the advancing modern civilization. He was born when Ohio was still a territory and lived to see many states added to the Union. His life was spent in honest industry and was fraught with many good deeds and characterized by kindly assistance to others. He embodied in his life the truth of Christianity without its forms and won the respect and good will of all who knew him. His children were: Clun, Sarah, Elizabeth, John, Susan, Samuel E., Bazaleel, Isaac T., Rezin, James C., and Meredith C.

Of this family, Clun Price was born April 2, 1822, acquired a common school education and took up the study of medicine with Dr. Smith, of Moorefield, Ohio. He was afterward graduated from the Cincinnati Medical College and successfully practiced his profession. He married Linda Hines and located at Birmingham, Ohio. Their children were: Meredith C., Galen, John, Will, Tude and Linnie. The sons all became connected with the drygoods trade. In politics, Mr. Price was a republican and he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Sarah Price, the eldest daughter of James Price, was born November 3, 1823, and was a lady of many excellent traits of character. On the 20th of April, 1843, she became the wife of Amos Carr, a teacher, surveyor and merchant, who was a natural leader among men and had influence, because of his personal worth and ability. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Carr were born the following named: Lorin, Ermina, Annie, Ada V., Lish and Lou. Of this family, Lorin was born in 1851, and he displays many of the sterling traits exhibited by his worthy father. After acquiring his education, he turned his attention to merchandising and later completed the study of law and was admitted to the bar, but abandoned his profession to accept a clerkship in the Ohio house of representatives. Later he became connected with the railway mail service. In November, 1875, he married Lillian Hunt and they had a family of two sons and a daughter. Ermina Carr, the second child of Mr. and Mrs. Amos Carr, was born February 2, 1856, was accorded good educational advantages, and in 1871, became the wife of Alfred Canaga, of the United States navy, who was formerly professor of naval tactics at Cornell University, Utica, New York, but is now deceased. They have one son, Bruce. Annie Carr, born October 25, 1858, married C. M. Rippeth, a successful and popular merchant, and has one child, Mina. Ada V., born December 24, 1859, was educated at the public schools of Baltimore, Maryland, at Scio College, and the Valparaiso (Indiana) Normal, from which institution, she was graduated. She was no less esteemed for her educational attainments than for her splendid womanly qualities, and has made an excellent record as a teacher. Lish Carr, born May 15, 1865, attended the Leesville schools and later was graduated from Campbell University at Holton, Kansas. She married W. F. Holmes, a farmer near Leesville. Lou Carr, born April 24, 1867, was graduated from the public schools of Clinton, Missouri, winning honors in scholarship, and on the 22d of October, 1888, she married A. D. Walker, an attorney of Holton, Kansas.

Susan Price, a daughter of James Price, was born August 20, 1825, and died October 16, 1855. life was characterized by many noble qualities and kindly acts which endeared her to all who knew her.

Elizabeth Price, the next member of the family, was born January 17, 1827, and became the wife of Ecton Roby, but both are now deceased. Their children were Maud, the wife of Webster Heron, a prominent business man of Columbus; Eva, the wife of Charles Wheaton, of South Bend, Indiana; and Merritt.

John Price, another son of James Price, was born October 12, 1829, and became a millwright. When a young man, he went west, secured employment at Taylorville, Illinois, and soon formed a partnership in the milling business. He has deveioped an extensive enterprise, his trade extending over several states. His wife bore the maiden name of Hattie Cogle.

Samuel E. Price, the next member of the family, born October 31, 1831, was educated in Hopedale College and afterward engaged in teaching school for a time and then read law with Judge Hance, of New Philadelphia. He married Miss Carrie Smith, principal of the New Philadelphia schools, and removed to Clinton, Missouri, to practice law. In his profession, he has shown marked ability, attaining high rank among the lawyers of that locality, while he and his wife have been active in educational work. He has been chosen and served as president of the board of education of Clinton.

Dazalcel Price, born October 8, 1833, was educated in the common schools and began clerking for his brother-in-law, Amos Carr, at Leesville, while later, he became proprietor of the store, being regarded for many years as the leading merchant of Harrison and Carroll counties. In business matters, he was a man of strict integrity, never weighing any act in the scale of public opinion, and his career was at all times useful and honorable. He was a strong abolitionist, who did valuable service in the anti-slavery cause and became an enthusiastic republi- but supported Horace Greeley 1872, and afterward voted the democratic ticket. On August 7, 1856, he married Jennie Burr, a daughter of the late Dr. Joseph S. Burr, and they had three children, Orrin, Wendell and William. Of these Orrin was born February 24, 1859, and was married October 30, 1879, to Clara Finney. For years, he was in charge of one of the departments of the Joseph Horner Dry Goods Store, of Pittsburg. His brother William, born April 8, 1866, occupied a similar position with Giddings Brothers & Bent, of Colorado Springs. Wendell, born April 15, 1860, was graduated from the Northern Ohio University, August 28, 1883, and in 1889, married Florence Head, an accomplished musician and graduate of the same school. Wendell Price became well known in educational circles as principal of the Leesville schools.

James C. Price, son of James Price, Sr., was born November 15, 1835, and when eighteen years of age learned the mason's trade and as a contractor, built various churches, schools and public buildings. In 1859, during the Pikes Peak gold excitement, he with three others from Leesville, started for the gold fields and at Kansas City, bought an outfit for the trip. There they connected themselves with a wagon train of fourteen teams and seventy men and after a journey of seven weeks reached Denver, which at that time contained little but a government postoffice. Proceeding on their way to Colorado Springs, they met thousands of prospectors, who were devising all kinds of means whereby they might return to the states. Of the party of seventy, only four remained. Mr. Price with a young man from Vermont, opened up a claim in what was then called Russell's Gulch, where they worked five men at two dollars and a half per day and board. Mr. Price spent his time prospecting between Mountain City and Pikes Peak and to the head of the Arkansas river. In the fall they returned to the states for winter quarters, again returning to the mines as before. In 1861, James C. Price returned to Ohio and in 1862, enlisted in the Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. At the close of the war, he did contract work in Cadiz, Uhrichsville and New Philadelphia. He married Miss Martha English, of Mastersville, and afterward became proprietor of the United States Hotel at Leesville, Ohio. His children are: Burdell, Neva, De Forest and Fay.

Judge Isaac T. Price, a brother of James C. Price just mentioned above, was born November 27, 1837, and after acquiring a good literary education took up the study of law, was admitted to the Ohio bar, and afterward removed to Holton, Kansas, where he soon found clients and friends. His ability being of a high order, he easily won election three times to the office of probate judge. He has a family of four daughters: Effie, Ella, Myrile and Floy.

Rezin Price, born February 26, 1840, learned the woodworkers trade and for a number of years engaged in the furniture business and undertaking, but later entered the employ of the Edna Piano & Organ Factory, at Monroeville. He enlisted in the Union army and met all the hardships and privations of military life. He married Miss Jennie Kail and they became parents of three daughters and two sons: Effie, Pearl, Merritt, Orlo and Marie.

Merideth C. Price, born May 25, 1846, another son of Clun Price and the immediate subject of this review, was two years old when adopted by his grandfather, James Price, Sr. Under his care, he was reared to manhood. He was still pursuing his education when, constrained by a spirit of patriotism, he put aside his text-books and offered his aid to the government in February, 1864, enlisting when a boy of seventeen years as a member of Company A, Eightieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was made a drummer boy and what he lacked in years he made up in valor and loyalty, sharing with the other soldiers in the many hardships of war, particularly the famous march to the sea. At the close of the war, July 8, 1865, he received his discharge and when he returned home resumed his education as a student in Mount Union College, where he remained until 1867, when he assumed the management of the drygoods store, owned by his uncle, B. W. Price. He remained with his uncle until 1874, and then established business on his own account as proprietor of a jewelry and music store. A year later, he bought out a stock of general merchandise and carried on business in the old Millisack corner until the fall of 1878, when he purchased the Crawford corner and thereon erected a model business block at a cost of nearly ten thousand dollars. Seeing the advantage of a newspaper, he established the Times and later on also published the Plaindealer from the Times office. On the 5th of December, 1890, he sold his stock to A. F. Kail and became the largest stockholder and also the manger of the Edna Piano & Organ Company, of He figures as one of the best known men of Leesville and contributes in large measure to the enterprise and upbuilding of the town, as well as to his individual success. He became the most extensive real-estate owner of the town, making investments from time to time property, and paying more than double the of any other citizen. For twelve years, he remained in active connection with the Edna Piano & Organ Company and then established business in Norwalk, opening a piano and organ store in the Williams block on West Main street, under the name of the Norwalk Piano Company. He brought to the development of this enterprise the same spirit of determination, industry and keen discernment that had promoted his success in former years, and was soon at the head of one of the most important undertakings of this character in his section of Ohio. His store was fitted up as a handsomely furnished parlor, containing easy chairs, divans and tables, large mirrors and many beautiful pictures. The rooms contained also a large stock of pianos of many makes, including the Chickering, Kimball, Ivers & Pond, Corl, Wisner, Boston, Nelson, Haddorff, Weaver, Krell, Winter, National, Lagonda, Foster, Royal and Ropelt. He also carries a line of the best known makes of piano players, together with all kinds of string and wind instruments, and a large line of music and musical sundries. The establishment is altogether attractive in its appointments and the kind of goods carried and the business has reached extensive and profitable proportions. His trade now amounts to about seventy-five thousand dollars annually and the business not only covers the state of Ohio, but extends into almost every state in the Union. It has been developed along modern lines of trade and commerce and is permeated at all times by a spirit of undaunted enterprise and of unfaltering perseverance, which are essential factors to success.

Mr. Price has always figured quite largely in the public life of the community. Many times, he has been elected to offices of trust and sometimes the contest has been spirited, yet he has never been defeated. He is not only a favorite with the voters, but with all who know him, including his associates in business and his friends in social life. He is a good conversationalist with marked persuasive powers, to which his success as a salesman has been largely due. His business career shows him to be a man of undaunted energy, capable of despatching an astonishing amount of business and inspiring his employes with the same enthusiasm which he manifests. While not all days have been equally bright, he possesses the adaptability that has enabled him to use each situation to the utmost in his efforts to attain honorable success, and frequently, he has thus been enabled to turn threatened failures into victories. It is characteristic of him that he has always been warmhearted, generous and liberal, often accommodating others at a sacrifice of his own interests, and it has been truthfully said of him that no man was ever refused a favor when it was within his power to grant it. These qualities have won for him the admiration of all and his life record also displays many acts of kindness and benevolence. His nature is by no means self centered for he looks at life from the standpoint of a broad-minded man, who recognizes and utilizes his opportunities, not only for promoting his own interests, but of doing good to others. It has been truthfully said of him that he never tried to crush a rival, but only to obtain legitimate leadership, and he has extended a helping hand on many occasions to those who were traveling the same road as himself. For many years, he was regarded as a central figure in business circles of Leesville, becoming equally prominent in Monroeville, and has now won for himself a place

Mr. Price is pleasantly situated in his home life. He was married November 14, 1901, to Miss Florence C. Canby, and unto them have been born three children: Meredith Canby, whose birth occurred February 20, 1903; and Charles Kenneth and Florence Emma, twins, born on the 1st of October, 1905. Mr. Price took deep interest in the Norwalk Centennial celebration, which was made a homecoming week, on which occasion, the men and women from all parts of the country returned to Huron county to again visit the scenes among which they had formerly lived. On the day which was set aside especially for Monroeville, the band from that town gathered in front of the store of the Norwalk Piano Company, playing several selections in honor of Mr. Price, who with his characteristic hospitality, then invited the entire number to a dinner at the Avalon. This was an expression of his warm heart and the open handed qualities which have endeared him to his fellowmen in strong ties of friendship.

Joseph Hohler

Joseph Hohler, well known in Huron county by reason of his former connection with mercantile interests and his present connection with agricultural affairs, lives in Peru township, where he owns ninety-nine acres of land. He was born in Pontiac, Peru township, on the 14th of March, 1856, his parents being Frederick G. and Catherine (Zipfel) Hohler, both of whom were natives of Germany. When fourteen years of age Frederick G. Hohler accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States, the family home being established in Peru township, Huron county, Ohio. Here they purchased a tract of one hundred and twenty acres of timber land and for the first few years after their arrival in this county lived in a barn. This part of the state was still largely wild and undeveloped but they resolutely faced the hardships and privations of pioneer life and their labors proved an important element in the work of early development and upbuilding.

Frederick G. Hohler, the father of Joseph Hohler, passed away in 1866 at the age of forty-six years. His wife was also called to her final rest in the same year, havirg attained the age of forty-two. She had likewise made the voyage to this country in company with her parents, who located at Monroeville, Huron county. Peter Hohler, a brother of Frederick G. Hohler, passed away in Peru township at the venerable age of ninety-five years. He was a stalwart adherent of the democracy and on that ticket was elected to the offices of assessor and township trustee, the duties of which he capably discharged for a number of years. Unto Frederick G. and Catherine (Zipfel) Hohler were born seven children, namely: August, a resident of Monroeville; Peter, who is deceased; Agnes, the wife of Mathew Gable, of Berea, Ohio; Frances, who died at the Cleveland Sisters' Home, was a sister of charity, known as Sister Martin; Joseph, of this review; Leo, who lives in the old homestead in Peru township; and Fred, who is in Alaska.

In the acquirement of an education Joseph Hohler attended the district and German schools of Peru township, where he has resided from his birth to the present time. During his early life the family lived in a log house and on many occasions he would wake up in the morning to find several inches of snow on his bed. In early manhood he was engaged in the meat and liquor business at Monroeville for a number of years but throughout the greater part of his business career has been actively and successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits. About 1876 he bought his present farm of ninetynine acres from Mr. Fitz and has since been engaged in its cultivation and improvement. At the time it came into his possession the only buildings on the place were an old house and barn, but as the years have gone by Mr. Hohler has made a number of substantial improvements which stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise.

On the 15th of February, 1878, Mr. Hohler was united in marriage to Miss Frances Meyer, a native of Tiffin, Ohio, and a daughter of Samuel and Agetta (Hipp) Meyer, both of whom are now deceased. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hohler have been born eleven children, as follows: Lucy, living at Monroeville, who is the wife of John C. Wilhelm, by whom she has three children - Milton, Vernon and Charles; Mamie, who is at home; Henry, a resident of Hunts Corners, who wedded Miss Mary Heater and has one child, Agnes; Lena, who is the wife of Rover Derringer, and lives in Ridgefield township; Edward, residing in Michigan, who married Miss Carrie Cook, by whom he has one child, Opal; Tillie, Peter and Clarence, all of whom are still under the parental roof; Josiah, who passed away at the age of five years; and Clemons and Celia, who are also at home.

In his political views Mr. Hohler is a stanch democrat and has served in the position of township school director, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. He is a faithful communicant of the Catholic church and fraternally is identified with the Knights of Columbus at Monroeville. He is now in the prime of life and enjoys to the fullest measure the many advantages afforded by the present day and, being progressive, and a man whose life has always been in keeping with high standards, he justly deserves the confidence and respect which are uniformly accorded him.

Irving J. Brooks

Irving J. Brooks, the editor and owner of The Greenwich Enterprise, was born April 15, 1857, in Bronson township, Huron county, Ohio, and is the son of Franklin and Ann Eliza (Kennedy) Brooks, both of whom were natives of this county. The mother's ancestors came from the north of Ireland, but the father traced his to England, and counted among them several men who had plaved an important part in the history of this country from the earliest days. William Brooks, the greatgrandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a direct descendant of Lord Brooks of England, some of whose progeny came to America and held grants of land near the mouth of the Connecticut river, where the Say-Brooke fort of history, built to protect against the encroachments of the Dutch traders who claimed the territory, was situated. William Brooks was graduated from Yale College with honors and entered upon the profession of teaching, which he followed for thirty-three years. During the Revolutionary war he served as quartermaster and took part in the battles of Bunker Hill and Stillwater and was a member of that sturdy band who brought about Burgoyne's surrender. After the establishment of the Union he was commissioned by the government to survey on the Western Reserve, and Huron county, Ohio, lay within his field of operation. On completing his work here, he returned to Vermont to bring his family to the new country. They arrived in 1817 and settled in Greenfield township, Huron county, after having'made a trying journey of many days with an ox-team. The entire land was at that time covered with forests, in the midst of which the family settled, and which they immediately began to clear for the purpose of making a home. William Brooks was married, January 5, 1775, to Miss Keziah Haskell, who bore to him seven children.

Lemuel Sprague Brooks, the grandfather of Irving J. Brooks, was born in Windsor county, Vermont, October 29, 1806, and was ten years of age when his parents came to Ohio. He was a man of excepticnal muscular power and carried off the honors wherever athletic sports were in favor. He married, at the age of twenty-seven, Miss Almira Adams, of North Fairfield, Ohio, who bore him two children, Franklin and Esther. Five years after this union he passed away, in 1838.

Franklin Brooks was born in Greenfield Huron county, Ohio, January 13, 1834. He grew up to be a man of fine mind, a farmer, and one who wielded no inconsiderable influence in his community. On the rst of November, 1855, he was united in marriage to Miss Ann Eliza Kennedy, of Bronson, Huron county, by whom he had four children: Irving J., Gardiner A. Frank A. and Anna E. Frank: lin Brooks died December 11, 1897, but his wife still lives.

Irving J. Brooks was reared on the father's farm, was educated in the country schools, going thence to the Lebanon National Normal School, and to the normal school at Ada. For several years after completing his education he pursued the profession of teaching during the winter months and was both progressive and popular in this vocation. In the office of the Norwalk Chronicle he learned the printer's trade, with which trade he ever since has been closely connected. He left the Chronicle office to go to Cherokee, Iowa, as foreman of the Journal where he worked until 1885, when he went to Mankato, Minnesota, to fill the position of foreman on the Mankato Journal. Three years later he came to Greenwich, Huron county, Ohio, where he assumed the editorship and proprietorship of the Greenwich Enterprise holding it to the present. It isa weekly publication of influence in the homes and in affairs generally of the village and township. It professes an independent republican attitude in matters of political concern, but is an organ that makes for the good and progress of the community that supports it, and during the twenty years that Mr. Brooks has guided is destinies, has won for its owner and publisher the good will of his constituents. Not only does he own the paper and the printing plant and building, but he also conducts an up-to-date printing business. Yet these things do not consume all his time, for he has been able to devote a good deal of it to the service of the public. For a space of fifteen years he served as clerk of the township and of the township board of education for an equal period. He has also been a member of the school board of the village and also clerk for a number of In politics he is a republican and has been the Greenwich member of the Huron coun-

On April 15, 1886, Mr. Brooks was united in marriage, at Cherokee, Iowa, with Miss Lydia R. Ruggles, who was born in Waverly, Van Buren county, Michigan, August 21, 1865, a daughter of Charles P. and Henrietta C. (Hobart) Ruggles. Her father's people pride themselves on their blood, being an old family. Her mother was of Puritan descent, tracing a direct line of ancestry to John Alden and his wife Priscilla. Mr. and Mrs. Ruggles never became residents of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Brooks are members of the Episcopal church, but as there is no place of worship of this denomination in Greenwich they attend the services of the Methodist Episcopal church, in whose work and interests they have taken large part, Mr. Brooks having been for a number of years a member of the board of trustees, at present filling the office of president of this body, and having been superintendent of the Sunday school for a number of years, and his wife taking equally efficient interest.

Mr. Brooks belongs to a large number of organizations, fraternal, social, and such as are connected with his profession as journalist and printer. He was a charter member of the Forest Lodge, No. 145, Knights of Pythias, of Norwalk; is a member of Greenwich Lodge, No. 543, E. & A. M., in which he has filled many offices ; also of the New London Chapter, No. 110, R. A. M.; and of the National Union. He is on the roll of members of the Audubon Society of Cincinnati; of the International Typographical Union of Toledo; of the Buckeye Press Association; and of the Sons of Temperance, of Norwalk. He was formerly a member of Company G, Sixteenth Ohio National Guard, from which he holds an honorable discharge from service. In his private life, in his public activities, and as the editor of a paper that is a factor in the village, Mr. Brooks wields an influence that is refining, elevating and educational, one too that is widely felt in the community. Mrs. Brooks is well known in the social gatherings of the village, and the home over which she presides is one of the most attractive and modern of those here.

Arthur Underhill

Arthur Underhill, a resident of Norwalk, is a railway mail clerk in the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad. He was born in Ridgefield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 6th of March, 1867, a son of Isaac and Lydia (Gregory) Underhill. The father, a native of Herkimer county, New York, accompanied his parents, David and Mary (Osborne) Underhill, on their removal to this county in the year 1817 David Underhill, the grandfather of our subject, became the owner of considerable land in this vicinity and operated the first sawmill in the county. He had first visited this section of the state in 1810 in order to locate land and subsequently made several more trips to Huron county, doing quite a little trading with the Indians. In the construction of his sawmill, which was built in 1815, he employed the services of nearly all the men in the county at that time. He also assisted in laying out the town of Norwalk and was a charter member of the Masonic lodge at that place, which held some of its first meetings in his home.

One of his daughters, Harriett, who was the first white woman to be married in Ridgefield township, became the wife of Major Strong, in whose honor Strong's Ridge was named. When David Underhill was called to his final rest in 1844 the community mourned the loss of one of its most worthy and respected pioneer settlers, whose labors proved an important factor in the work of early development and upbuilding.

Subsequent to the demise of his father, Isaac Underhill continued to operate the sawmill until 1879 and remained a resident of Ridgefield township from the time of his arrival in this county until he passed away on the 15th of March, 1885, in the faith of the Baptist church. His wife, who was a devoted and faithful member of the Presbyterian church, was called to the home beyond on the 1st of October, 1907. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, as follows: Isaac M., who is deceased; Isabelle F., likewise deceased, who was the wife of Arthur Sprague, by whom she had one child, Kathryn B.; Edwin, who wedded Miss Myrtle Husted and has a son, Roy; Arthur, of this review; and a daughter who died in infancy.

Arthur Underhill obtained his education in the schools of Norwalk and after putting aside his text-books took up his abode on the home farm, where he continued to reside until 1893. In that year he entered the railway mail service as a clerk on the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad. but at the end of six months was transferred to the Big Four Railroad, his run being from Cleveland to Cincinnati. Subsequently he was transferred to the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, in which position he has remained to the present time, his run being between Cleveland and Utica, New York. He is the owner of a well improved and productive farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Ridgefield township, also owns some property in Norwalk and is altogether a most prosperous, enterprising and progressive citizen of his native county.

In December, 1884, Mr. Underhill was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Mahler, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Mahler, of Ridgefield township. The three children born of this union are as follows: Clarence, who married Miss Gertrude La Reau, of Monroe, Michigan, lives on his father's farm. He has one son, James A. Clara, twin sister of Clarence, is a graduate of St. Luke's Hospital and is now a trained nurse of Cleveland, Ohio. Jennie is still under the parental roof. Mr. Underhill is well and favorably known throughout the county in which his entire life has been spent and in the development and progress of which both his father and grandfather bore an important part.

William Boehler

William Boehler, who is now living retired in an attractive and comfortable home in Monroeville, Ridgefield township, was for many years identified with agricultural interests of Huron county. He was born in Lyme township, this county, on the 29th of December, 1852, a son of John Philip and Margaret (Seible) Boehler, both natives of Germany. The father, whose birth occurred on the 7th of November, 1823, came to the United States when twenty-six years of age, coming di- rect to Ohio, where he located in Huron county. Upon his arrival here he was entirely without funds and was compelled to work by the month in various places throughout the county. His was a determined and energetic spirit, however, and by hard labor and careful saving he had accumulated, after three years, sufficient means to purchase a farm of eighty acres located in Lyme township. After a year he sold this property and purchased one hundred acres in Sherman township. Three years later he also sold this farm and removed to Peru township, where he bought land from George Turner, one of the oldest farmers in this county. He resided upon this farm for about forty-one years, actively engaged in agricultural pursuits, and then retired from business life, removing to Bellevue. He remained in the latter place, however, only about two months, and then took up his abode in Monroeville, where his remaining days were spent, his death occurring May 3, 1897. He had been most successful in his undertakings and became recognized as one the extensive land owners of this county, his property holdings at the time of his demise amounting to eight hundred acres. He was also well known among local democratic ranks, serving as township trustee, school director and road supervisor of Peru township. He was also an active worker in church circles and assisted in erecting the Lutheran church at Pontiac and during his connection with that church was almost continuously in office. He wedded Margaret Seible, who was born in 1830 and came ta Huron county with her parents when twenty-one years of age. Here she passed away on the 22d of June, 1883. In the family of this worthy couple were six children, namely: William, of this review; Henry; Minnie, the wife of John P. Meyers, of Ridgefield township ; Louise, the wife of Charles Heyman, residing in Peru township; Philip, a farmer of Peru township, residing on the old homestead ; and Otto, whose sketch, in connection with that of his brother Henry, will be found elsewhere in this volume.

William Boehler, whose name introduces this review, was reared on his father's farm and has continued to make his residence in this county. He acquired his education in the district and summer schools. He remained at home, assisting his father in the cultivation of the fields, until he attained manhood, when he started out in business on his own account, operating a farm which he had received from his father. He had early become familiar with the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting and, energetic and persevering by nature, he at once bent his energies toward the development of his property. He made a large number of improvements on the place, which consisted of one hundred and thirty-two acres of land in Peru township, erected substantial outbuildings and installed all the modern equipment and accessories necessary to facilitate the work of the farm. It is now one of the finely improved farms of the township. He operated this place for about thirty-two years and his close application to business and his excellent management at last brought to him a substantial competence which enabled him to retire from active work, and, renting his farm to his son, he removed to Monroeville, where he purchased some property and where he now makes his home.

On the 4th of January, 1877, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Boehler and Miss Mary Heyman, a daughter of William A. and Janette (Mohr) Heyman, who were both old settlers of Huron county. The birth of Mrs. Boehler occurred June 25, 1854, in Lyme township. The home of Mr. and Mrs. has been blessed with eight children. The eldest, Louisa, is the wife of Charles Scheid and resides in Sherman township. By her marriage she has become the mother of four children, Mable, Ada, Marian and Olive. August L., who was born August 6, 1879, married Anna Meyer and lives on the old homestead farm, which he operates for his father. He is serving as school director of Peru township and is also a trustee of the Lutheran church. Anna, who wedded Alvin Groff, died on the 6th of September, 1908, at the age of twenty-seven years, leaving besides her husband one son, Morris, who resides with our subject. Minnie, the fourth in order of birth, passed away on the 8th of May, 1904, at the age of twenty-one years. Amanda, who married Henry Meyer, resides in Ridgefield township. Edith and Carl are still at home, while Elmer, the youngest of the family, passed away at the age of four months.

Mr. Boehler is one of the prominent members of the Lutheran church at Pontiac, of which he is serving as elder and in the work of which he is deeply and helpfully interested. He is a stalwart democrat in political allegiance and on that ticket was elected township trustee, in which capacity he served for ten years. He was also school director for some time, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion, and he has also been elected to fill various other minor offices. Publicspirited in his citizenship, he readily lends his influence to all matters which have for their object the material, political, intellectual and moral advancement and upbuilding of the community. His life has been one of continuous activity in which has been accorded due recognition of honest labor, and he stands today as one of the substantial and prosperous representatives of his native county, while his genuine personal worth and sterling traits of character have gained for him a high place in the esteem and regard of his fellowmen.

Rev. T. F. Hildreth is numbered among those to whom the spirit of youthful energy and enthusiasm clings while time passes by and may, therefore, be termed "eighty-two years young," for while he has covered more than eight decades since starting upon the journey of life, in his interests he seems a man yet in his prime, his cheerful word, ready smile and encouraging sympathy making him popular alike among young and old, rich and poor, in his home town. He has resided continually in Norwalk since 1885. He was born in Tompkins county, New York, November 29, 1826, and was the third son of Benjamin and Susan (Colegrove) Hildreth, both of whom were natives of the Empire state. 1833 the family home was established in Huron county, Ohio, where the father died September 20, 1852, at the age of fifty-eight years. His wife survived him until March 15, 1855, and passed away at the age of sixty years. They had a family of nine children, four daughters and five sons.

The Rev. T. F. Hildreth was but seven years of age when they came to Huron county and in the district schools of the early day he pursued his preliminary education. He also assisted in clearing and cultivating the old home farm until nineteen years of age, being busily employed at the task of cutting down the trees, grubbing up stumps and preparing the fields for cultivation. He after- ward studied for two terms in the old Norwalk Academy and throughout his entire life he has remained a student and a broad reader, thus gaining wide general information as well as thorough and accurate knowledge of the teachings of the church. Rev. Hildreth was but eleven years of age when he was converted and when a youth of sixteen he united with the church of his father, thus becoming identified with Methodism. He felt called to the ministry but before he had fully decided to enter upon a career of that character he took up the study of law under the direction of the Hon. Samuel T. Wooster of Norwalk. He had not completed his law studies, however, when he was licensed to preach as a local minister of the Methodist Episcopal church and was received on trial in the north Ohio conference at Bellefontaine on the 22d of August, 1851. He occupied several important charges prior to 1864 when he was transferred to the New York conference and assigned to the pastorate of the Trinity Methodist Episcopal church on Thirty-fourth street. There his health failed and he resigned in 1867, in which year he returned to the northern Ohio conference. Here his health improved and he was given charge of the Methodist Episcopal church in Norwalk, remaining as its pastor for three years when by the special request of the church at Ionia, Michigan, he was transferred to that place. He held three appointments of three years each but his health again gave way and he returned to Norwalk. Later he again entered into active relations with the northern Ohio conference and was again appointed minister of the Norwalk church, in which capacity he served for three years. He next had charge of the Lorain Street Methodist Episcopal church in Cleveland but after one year he severed his connection with the conference and took charge of the People's Tabernacle church at Music Holl, an undenominational organism composed chiefly of those who desire to do gospel temperance work. There he remained for two years when upon the death of its founder and patron, Hon. W. H. Doan, he retired to his quiet home in Norwalk where he has since remained.

In 1863 the Ohio Wesleyan University conferred upon the Rev. Hildreth the degree of Master of Arts and in 1887 the degree of Doctor of Divinity. His ability as an orator made him greatly sought for at church dedications and on other special occasions. He had few equals in the pulpit or on the public platform and was purely an extemporaneous speaker. While well versed in all branches of learning, his style is simple and concise. He learned to think along classical lines but to speak in the language of the common people and it has been the power of the truth of his utterances clearly, forcefully and cogently presented that has made strong appeal to his hearers. He is a fluent writer and a poet of no mean ability. He has written many poems of merit which he has published in two volumes, bringing forth his Poems of the Heart in 1903 and Poems of the Home in 1907. These collections contain many gems and have been very warmly received by the press and the people. His views of life have ever been sane and rational, presenting a clear understanding of the conditions òf the present time as well as the ideals presented in the Christian religion.

In 1849 Dr. Hildreth was married to Mrs. Eudolphia C. Cherry, who was to him a genial and loving companion and helpmate until she was called from his side by death on the 3oth of August, 1900, leaving the Doctor to finish his journey alone. He is a remarkably well preserved man despite his eighty-three years, bright, genial and cheerful, of noble character, active in mind and body. He is a splendid example to the rising generation of what a clean, temperate and Godly life will do. Among his fellow townsmen he is very popular and his words and work are yet a matter of strong influence among those with whom he is daily brought in contact. His work has been far-reaching in its effects and like the echoes which "roll from soul to soul" will "live forever and forever," for the seeds of truth and righteousness never die but bring forth fruit throughout all the ensuing years.

E. L. Beelman, who is well known in the business circles of Huron county as the secretary and treasurer of the Beelman Manufacturing Company of Chicago, Ohio, has been active in its affairs since its inception and by his excellent business ability and keen sagacity has been a potent factor in its continuous and rapid progress. He was born in Richmond township, Huron county, on the 4th of May, 1867, a son of Joseph and Eliza Ann (Moore) Beelman, farmers of that township. The father, who originally came from Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, where his birth occurred, settled in Richmond township, Huron county, where he purchased two hundred acres of land, which he continued to operate up to the time of his demise. He became a prominent figure in the public affairs of that township, having during his residence therein filled all of the township offices, while he was county commissioner for two terms, and served as justice of the peace for several years. He also taught school fcr some time in Huron county, and in politics was a stalwart republican. He passed away May 4, 1883, at the age of sixty-four years, while his wife survived until 1887. In their family were nine children, namely: George, of Columbus, Ohio; W. S. and H. M,, both of Chicago, Ohio; Jennie, the wife of Ed. Tanner, residing in Fairfield township; J. L., in partnership with his brother; E. L., of this review ; Charles, who is engineer on the Toledo & Ohio Central Railroad; Sarah, who passed away at the age of eighteen years; and Anna, who also passed away when fourteen years old.

Reared upon the home farm, E. L. Beelman acquired his education in the district schools and until seventeen years of age remained under the parental roof, assisting his father in the operation of his farm. Then thinking to find other pursuits more congenial and profitable than agriculture, he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for a number of years. In 1902 he and his brother, J. L. Beelman, organized the present Beelman Manufacturing Company, with five stockholders and a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars. The other members of the board were C. B. Tudor, J. W. Sheidley and Glenn Tudor, while the officers were J. L. Beelman, president, J. W. Sheidley, vice-president, and E. L. Beelman, secretary and treasurer. In 1907 the firm increased its capital to fifty thousand dollars, with twelve stockholders, while the present officers are J. L. Beelman, president, William Glick, vice-president and E. L. Beelman, secretary and treasurer. The board of directors consists of J. L. and E. Beelman, Ed. Weaver, J. W. Sheidley and William Glick. The company does a general lumber business, manufacturing all kinds of house furnishings and patent step-ladders, and from its inception has been signally successful, enjoying a rapid and continuous growth. The efforts of E. L. Beelman have been influential elements in its successful control and he has gained a high place among the progressive and prosperous business men of this district.

It was on Christmas day of 1889 that Mr. Beelman was united in marriage to Miss Estella Keesy, a daughter of John H. and Margaret (Johnson) Keesy, pioneer settlers of Richmond township where Mrs. Beelman was born and reared. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Beelman were born three children, Letha, Fay and Laura, the eldest daughter, Letha, having graduated from the Chicago (Ohio) high school with the class of 1909 and now attending Athens Normal school. Mr. Beelman is trustee of the Chicago Lodge, No. 748, I. O. O. F., while in his politics he gives his allegiance to the republican party, although the honors and emoluments of public office have no attraction for him, as he prefers to direct his entire energies to the conduct of his personai affairs. He is preeminently a business man who has worked his way up by indefatigable energy and untiring perseverance, while, aside from the success which he has won in business, his personal characteristics are such as have gained him the respect, confidence and good will of his fellowmen.

Hon. C. P. Venus is the chief executive of Norwalk, whose mayoralty record has been characterized by public-spirited devotion to the general good and by retrenchment in useless expenditure and the advocacy of progressive measures of improvement. At a crisis in the city's history, he proved himself equal to the emergency and with keen insight into the situation, met the conditions and instituted measures which were the salvation of Norwalk.

His birth occurred in this city, March 6, 1853, and he comes of German ancestry. His father, Sebastian Venus, was a native of Germany and while living in that country, learned the trade of a silversmith and jeweler. After coming to the new world, he established his home in Norwalk and here engaged in the jewelry business. From the Black Forests of Germany he imported the first clocks sold in Huron county and was a leading factor in the early commercial development of this part of the state. He married Elizabeth Amend, a native of Germany, who came to America with her parents during her early girlhood days. Mr. and Mrs. Sebastian Venus had a family of seven children, five of whom died in 1854 between the 4th and 7th of August, being carried away during the cholera epidemic of that year, the dread disease largely devastating Huron county. The surviving sister of our subject is Mrs. Rosie Fischer, a resident of Toledo, Ohio.

C. P. Venus was reared in this city and at the usual age became a pupil in the Norwalk public schools. He afterward attended St. Mary's Academy at Dayton, Ohio, and, making his initial step in the business world, he became a clerk in a shoe store, where he was employed for a few years. He then joined his mother in the grocery business, in which they continued for a number of years, and then sold out, Mr. Venus at that time becoming connected with the Taber Dry Goods Company. He was thus associated until elected city clerk, in which position he was continued by a re-election for four years. He was next made deputy postmaster, serving in that capacity for four years, and for a similar period he was in the railway mail service during President Cleveland's first administration. At the close of his term as deputy postmaster, he took up the life insurance business, representing the New York Life Insurance Company, and has since continued in this field of activity with gratifying success, securing many patrons for the company and writing up a large amount of business each year.

In November, 1907, he was again called to public office, being elected mayor of Norwalk on the democratic ticket. He has given to the city a businesslike administration, has sought to secure restrictive and constructive legislation whereever needed and has done much practical work for the city's benefit. Shortly after taking the office several bank failures occurred in Norwalk, bringing about a crisis in the city's affairs. It was evident that something must be done to restore confidence. Mayor Venus calmly faced the situation, gave to it his earnest study, viewed the question from every possible standpoint and as a result, associated with him every prominent man in organizing the Chamber of Commerce which has since flourished and has done much for the city's upbuilding and the restoration of its financial status. He has acted as secretary of the chamber since its organization and his work in this connection has been most far-reaching and beneficial.

In 1875, Mr. Venus was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Kunzelman, who died in 1904, and unto them were born three sons and two daughters: Carl H., Louise M. and Robert E., surviving. The family is prominent in the social circles of the city and the hospitality of the Venus home is greatly enjoyed by their many friends.

Mr. Venus belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Columbus and several other organizations. He is the originator and organizer of The Smile Club, which is one of the most charitable organizations ever started in Norwalk. With the assistance of several charitably inclined ladies and gentlemen of this city, this club was organized for the purpose of giving every needy child in Norwalk a bountiful Christmas and that its object has been carefully carried out may be ascertained by asking any waif in Norwalk. The club is still in existence and is a monument to the fertile brain and progressive and charitable spirit of Mr. Venus. He is an alert, energetic and enterprising man, who seems to realize the possibilities of every situation and in both his public and private affairs, has so co-ordinated forces and managed interests as to bring about the best possible conditions under the situation. His mayoralty record will ever remain a most creditable chapter in his life history.

Lambert M. Chapin

Huron county numbers among its intelligent, enterprising and successful citizens Lambert M. Chapin, who for many years has been a prominent figure in agricultural circles and has also taken an active part in the public affairs of the community. Born in Hartland township, Huron county, upon the farm where he now resides, October 21, 1842, his birth occurred in a little log cabin which stood but a few feet away from the site of the present modern dwelling. He is a son of Morris G. and Clarissa (Granger) Chapin, the former a native of Genesee county, New York, while the mother's birth occurred in Cleveland, Ohio. In 1825, the father accompanied his parents to Ohio when but a young lad and in this state the remainder of his life was spent. He was engaged to some extent in farming and became a large landowner, being one of the successful and influential residents of the community in which he resided. He was an ardent democrat, taking a very active part in all public affairs and he was a gentleman of wide information and intelligence, his name being a synonym for honesty and fair dealing. He passed away February 7, 1887, and his remains were interred in Woodland cemetery at Norwalk, to which city he had removed in 1880, after retiring from active business life. His wife was called to her final rest April 14, 1891, and was laid to rest beside her husband in Woodland. In their family were four children, all of whom are now living with exception of one daughter.

Reared to agricultural pursuits, Lambert M. Chapin spent the days of his boyhood and youth upon the old homestead whereon he was born and upon which he has since continued to make his residence. He attended the district schools of Hartland township and when not engaged with his textbooks, his time was devoted to assisting his father in the work of the fields. He early became familiar with the hest methods of plowing, planting and harvesting and under the direction of his father learned many lessons concerning the value of industry, energy and perseverance. In 1878, he purchased the farm across the road from the old homestead and upon this place he has been busily engaged in general farming and stock raising, both branches of his business proving a source of gratifying remuneration to him. His property now consists of about three hundred and fifty acres of fine farm land, all under a high state of cultivation, so that he is ranked among the prosperous and substantial agriculturists of his part of the county.

February 22, 1871, Mr. Chapin was united in marriage to Miss Martha ]. Shipley, a daughter of Samuel P. and Harriet (Morrison) Shiplev, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. 'The parents came to Ohio with their respective parents when young people, settlement being made in Olena, Huron county, where Mr. Shipley was engaged in the carriage business. He passed away July 30, 1885, but his widow still survives at the advanced age of eighty-two years. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Chapin has been blessed with three sons, namely: Elmer L., who is married and resides in Cleveland ; Fred M., who is also married and operates a farm adjoining the old homestead ; and Samuel S., likewise married, carryine on general farming in Bronson township. All of the sons are successful business men and are well known and prominent citizens in the communities in which they reside.

In his political relations, Mr. Chapin has always been a supporter of the republican party and has been very active in the public affairs of the community, having filled almost every office the township. His public life has at all times been characterized with the same adherence to truth, right and justice as has been manifest in his private relations, and the consensus of public opinion accords him a foremost place among the valued citizens of Huron county. Fraternally, he holds membership in the Olena Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry, of which his son Fred M. was a charter member, and in the affairs of which both father and son have been extremely active. Mr. and Mrs. Chapin hold membership in the Presbyterian church, to which they are liberal contributors and deeply interested in the various phases of the church work, while Mr. Chapin is now serving in the capacity of church trustee. He has passed his entire life on the old homestead where he was born with the exception of a few years, when his sons were attending school. During that pericd the family lived in Norwalk but after they had completed their education, the family returned to the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Chapin have traveled extensively and have acquired a very wide general knowledge. They are readers of all the best current literature, and thüs they are . able to speak authoritatively upon all of the live topics of the day. The family residence is one of the most comfortable and attractive homes of Hartland township and is pervaded by an atmosphere of refinement and culture, which is both pleasing and uplifting. It is also the seat of a genuine and cordial hospitality, which makes it a favorite resort with a large circle of warm friends.

Daniel S. Washburn

Daniel S. Washburn, well known as a prominent and worthy representative of the agricultural interests of the county, and having large holdings in Greenwich and Ripley townships, was born April 8, 1843, near where he now resides and where he has always lived. He is the son of Henry G. and Ann Maria (Van Benschoten) Washburn, the father coming as a young man from Ulster county, New York, in 1830, followed later by his parents. The mother was a native of Berlin, Erie county, Ohio. Both the Washburns and the Van Benschotens were from colonial families and had many representatives in the war for independence and later were leaders in the formation of the republic. 'The latter were particularly active and were honored personal friends of General Washington.

Henry G. Washburn and wife were married in 1842 and settled in Greenwich township, where they continued residence through life. Here they reared their family of four children: Daniel 5., Susanna M., Alice E. and Jay. Susanna died at the age of eighteen. Henry G. Washburn was a pushing, energetic man, who came to Ohio with a pittance and increased it to a competency, at the same time taking an intelligent interest in the life of the community. His business was farming but he also became widely known as a breeder of fine cattle and sheep. After a long and useful life, he passed away in September, 1886. Mrs. Washburn still survives, a kindly, vivacious lady who retains her faculties and, at the age eighty-six, goes about with the apparent vigor of middle life.

Daniel S. Washburn received somewhat more than the usual amount of education for his time, having attended the normal school at Milan, Ohio. Having been reared under the tutelage of a skillful and prosperous farmer, he decided to continue the work as a life occupation and has consistently followed it. After his marriage he and his wife located where they now reside, their life being passed without a single change. They have a splendid farm of four hundred acres, all in a high state of cultivation, and especially well tiled - a large drain through the center and eight laterals - and with ample buildings. The house is one of the most complete farm homes in the county. Mr. Washburn is one of the directors of the First National Bank of Greenwich, Ohio.

Although a republican in politics and an interested participant in public matters, Mr. Washburn confines his attention to the needs of his own community, acting as township trustee and member of the board of education on occasion, and always being active in movements looking toward the advancement of his community in social and religious affairs. Being primarily a farmer, he has always taken an active interest in that which promised a bettering of the farmer's condition. For that reason he has been an influential worker in the Grange and is firm in his conviction that said organization has brought about improved conditions. He is a charter member of Ripleyville Grange, No. 707, the first organized in that township, and is now a member of North Fairfield Grange, No. 806, Patrons of Husbandry, which he and his wife joined on its organization. He has held all of the local offices and is a member and overseer of the county grange.

Daniel S. Washburn was married January 23, 1867, to Sarah Jane Mac- Omber, daughter of Egbert and Anna (Benedict) MacOmber. Her family came from Cayuga county, New York, in 1833, and were prominent in the development of this section. "They, late in life, moved to Erie county, Ohio, where the father died in 1888, the mother surviving him some five years. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Washburn: Anna Maude, wife of Lacey W. Robinson, a farmer of Ripley township; Ernest Linton, who is married and is operating the old farm; Inez, wife of Warren O. Smith, a farmer of Richland county; Wayne, now in the far west; and Leo, who, with Wayne, was in partnership with his father on the farm. He is a graduate veterinary surgeon and for some time served as government meat inspector but resigned that position in the spring of 1909 and is now at home.

One of the prominent members of the farming community of Greenfield township is F. P. Mitchell, who owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred and fortytwo acres, on which he has made his home throughout life, his birth occurring here November 5, 1866. His father, Elias Mitchell, was born on the same farm December 30, 1839, and is still living, making his home in North Fairfield, Ohio. Our subject's paternal grandfather was William Mitchell, who was born January 1, 1799, and came to this state from Canandaigua, New York, 1820, locating Greenwich township, Huron county. Here in the midst of the unbroken forest he cleared land and laid out the town of Greenwich, where he and his brother lived for about six years. They bought land there which they later gave to their father, James Mitchell, the great-grandfather of our subject, who continued to make his home in Greenwich until called to his final rest. He was a son of James Mitchell, Sr. A soldier of the Revolutionary war, he took part in the battle of Trenton and died when his son James was but nine years of age. After seeing that his parents were comfortably located in their new home in Greenwich, William Mitchell, our subject's grandfather, removed to Macksville, where he worked in the mill and distillery of Ezra Smith, being a miller by trade. He spent seven years in that locality and then came to Greenfield township, where he purchased a farm which at that time was covered with timber with the exception of two acres that had been cleared and a log house erected thereupon. He made that dwelling his home until a more substantial log house could be erected. He continued to reside upon this farm until 1860, devoting his time to clearing the land and cultivating the fields, and then returned to Macksville where he lived retired for some time. He died in Fairfield township in September, 1890, honored and respected by all who knew him. For several years he filled the office of township trustee and was a deacon of the Baptist church, both in Peru and Fairfield township, assisting in removing the church from the former township and donating the land upon which it was located.

His son, Elias Mitchell, the father of F. P. Mitchell, has lived in Greenfield and Fairfield townships all his life, carrying on agriculture. He was born on the home farm December 30, 1839, and received his education in the district schools. He became one of the prominent citizens of this locality, served for eighteen years as a trustee of Fairfield township, held several offices in Greenfield township and was one of the directors of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Huron county. He is at present living in North Fairfield, in comparative rest from toil. His wife, who in her maidenhood was Miss Cornelia Place, was born October 26, 1842, in New York city, but was very young when she came here with her mother and her step-father, in 1855. Her own father had died in 1847, and her mother married James L. Coit, Sr. To Mr. and Mrs. Elias Mitchell, have been born three children : Grant, who died at the age of one; E. P., the subject of this sketch; and Bertha, who died at the age of twenty-six, leaving a husband, Robert Reeder, of North Fairfield, and three children: Ray, Dana, deceased, and Nelson.

F. P. Mitchell has always lived on his present farm, and in his youth, he attended the district schools, from which he gleaned such an education as they were able to impart during the few months they were in session and to lads who were compelled to give their first thought to the farm and its work. However, they would seem to have afforded a good training for life, for Mr. Mitchell has been very successful in the farming he has practiced and in the live stock business, he has carried He is also interested in the wool market. He has had other interests outside his farm, perhaps the principal one being in the schools. For a period of fifteen years, he served as a member of the board of education, is at present president of that body, and has held other offices within the gift of the people of his township. He is the secretary of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, a stockholder and one of the directors of the North Fairfield Savings Bank and of the North Fairfield Telephone Company, of which latter concern he is also treasurer.

On the 21st of November, 1888, Mr. Mitchell wedded Miss Catherine Ryerson, a daughter of George M. and Catherine (Edsel) Ryerson, of Peru township. Mrs. Mitchell was born there, whither her parents had come from New York state in the early days. She was one of a family of nine children, the others being: Sarah, the wife of Charles H. Burg, of Patterson, New Jersey; Price V. and Edsel, of North Fairfield, Ohio: Esther, the wife of Adelbert S. Roe, of Peru township;

George E., of Fairfield township; Catherine, the wife of our subject; Delno P., of Norwalk, Ohio ; Dora, the widow of F. M. Mitchell, and a resident of Columbus, Ohio ; and Grace, the wife of Henry T. Graham, of Fairfield township. Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell have had three children: Donald, born January 2, 1894; C. Philip, born October 2, 1896; and Cornelia, born January 27, 1900.

By hard and diligent labor, Mr. Mitchell has won success in his business operations, and because of the strong qualities of his character, he has won the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens. He is one of the men who make for the prosperity and stability of Greenfield township.

Warren Severance

A man versed in the laws of the country, as distinguished from the business man or politician, has been a recognized power for many years. He is depended upon to conserve the best and permanent interests of the whole people, and without him and his practical judgment, the efforts of the statesman and the industry of the business man and mechanic would prove futile. The reason is not far to seek, for the professional lawyer is never a creature of circumstances, The profession is open to talent, and no definite prestige or success can be attained save by indomitable energy, perseverance, patience and strong mentality. One of the leading representatives of the bar of Huron county is Warren Severance, of Chicago, Ohio, who is a of long and varied experience and deep learning. He was born in Sandusky county, Ohio, October 9, 1836, being a son of Elisha and Phebe B. (Tracy) Severance.

Elisha Severance was born in Shelburn, Massachusetts, while his wife was born in Bridgewater, Vermont. He came to Ohio in 1819, locating at Milan, Erie county, where he lived for a number of years, later removing to Sandusky county, Ohio, and thence to Huron county, where he died October rath, 1892. He first worked at his trade of coopering exclusively, but later, he began farming in the summer, confining his work at his trade to the winter. His first wife was Martha Bangs, a daughter of Captain Bangs, who commanded a lake boat. She bore him one son, that lived to maturity, Samuel M. The second wife was Phebe B. Tracy and by this marriage, there were the following children: William M., Warren, Byron, and one son that died in infancy.

Warren Severance attended the Maxville school in Peru township, Samuel F. Newman being one of his teachers. When he was twenty years old, he left school and like so many young men of his days who cherished ambitions, he began teaching. For nine years he continued as an educator in the schools of Huron county, but never relinquished his determination to enter the legal profession, and in 1876 he was able to begin his law studies. In 1878, he was admitted to the bar and immediately thereafter located in Chicago, Ohio, which has been his home ever since, having firmly established himself in the confidence of the people. On March 16, 1896, Mr. Severance was admitted to the supreme court in Washington, D. C.

Mr. Severance was married February 9, 1860, to Philinda Shepard, a daughter of Israel and Nancy (Brown) Shepard, who were the parents of the following named children: Hannah, who married D. B. Kroh; Mary, deceased, who married James McDuell; Israel, also deceased; Mrs. Severance; Lucinda, who married J. Z. Woodworth ; and Eva, who married W. B. Keefer. Mr. and Mrs. Severance became the parents of two children: E. W.; and Clara M., who is the widow of C. A. Weatherford. Mr. Severance mourns the loss of his wife, who passed away May 10, 1904.

He has been very prominent fraternally, and belongs to Chicago Lodge No. 748, I. O. O.E, at Chicago, Ohio. He is local counsel for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, having held this position since 1891. While a republican, Mr. Severance has not sought public office. A consistent member of the Presbyterian church, he is much interested in its good work, and has been one of its elders since the establishment of the church in Chicago, also acting as one of the church trustees. For many years, he has practiced in all of the courts and has been connected with much of the legal business of his locality, his sound and ripe iudgment, conservative views and thorougb knowledge of his profession making him one of the best attorneys Huron county has ever possessed.

One of the prosperous young farmers of Greenfield township is B. M. Cherry, who owns the one hundred and forty-five acres of land on which he makes his home. He was born in this township, September 29, 1873, and is a son of Eugene and Augusta (Turney) Cherry. The paternal grandfather, Reuben Cherry, was one of the old settlers of this county. He was reared and married in New York state, but in 1823 came to Ohio alone, settling at Hanvil's Corners, Fairfield township. After working here for a time, he returned home to get his wife, coming back to this state which he made his home until 1857, when typhoid fever caused his death. His widow, who before her marriage was Miss Brilla Snow, lived to be eighty-eight, and until 1893, the year of her death, made her home with her son Eugene, the youngest of her family of nine. Among the others were Eunice, who married M. Taylor, both now deceased; Eudolphia, the deceased wife of T. F. Hildreth ; and Lucinda, the widow of Philander Mitchell.

Eugene Cherry, the father of R. M. Cherry, has spent all his life in this county. He was born March 20, 1846, in Fairfield township, and began his education in the old log schoo! house there. He was not privileged however, to receive much of an education, for his father's early death compelled him to give all his time to the management of the farm. To the cultivation of the soil he devoted himself assiduously until 1905, when he removed to Norwalk to live in retirement and enjoy the fruits of his labor. His wife was born in Connecticut, but came at the age of thirteen to this state to live with an aunt. Later, Mrs. Cherry returned to her native home for a while as her father, Cyrus Turney, never became a resident of Ohio. Her mother had died when she was but a young girl. To Mr. and Mrs. Cherry were born three children: Jessie, at home; R. M., of this review ;

R. M. Cherry has always lived in this locality, and has worked on the farm from his boyhood. He attended the district school of the township, but could never be said to have received an education for when his father's health failed, as the result of a sunstroke, he was compelled to give up his lessons and devote himself, mind and body, to the conduct of the farm. The hard work he has put into the field tell; his crops are bountiful; and the condition of the buildings shows that their owner is thrifty and a good manager. He has found by experience that his soil is best adapted to general farming and the progressive methods he employs bid fair to make him one of the most prosperous men of his township in a few years.

On the 19th of April, 1905, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Cherry and Miss May Hartman, the daughter of William and Alice (Crebs) Hartman, of New London, Oho. Mr. Hartman was born in Ashland county, Ohio, July 14, 1851, and his wife in Huntington county, Indiana, July 25, 1854. Both are still living. They had a family of five children: Ira; Charles ; Nina, deceased ; May and Sylvia.

Mr. Cherry is a member of the Methodist church of North Fairfield, is in regular attendance at its services and contributes generously to its support. He is a member of the younger generation of farmers, to whom the township will look for her future prosperity and advancement, and her best expectations will not be disappointed, if we are to judge by the past years of Mr. Cherry's life.

William Erf

William Erf, devoting his time and energies to farming and dairy pursuits in Lyme township, is meeting with a substantial measure of success which entitle him to rank among the prosperous and progressive agriculturists of his township. He was born in Peru township, Huron county, May 7, 1857, a son of Philip and Dorothea (Heymen) Erf, both natives of Germany. The father was born in Freien Dietz in 1821, where he was reared to the age of twenty years. Rumors had come to him concerning the superior opportunities for advancement offered in the new world and he decided to try his fortune on this side of the Atlantic. Consequently, he sailed for the United States and made his way direct to Huron county, Ohio, settling in Peru township, where he worked by the month for several years. When, by hard labor and careful saving, he had accumulated sufficient money, he purchased a few acres of land in that township and directed his gies toward cultivating and expanding this property. As he prospered, he added to his holdings until at the time of his death, he had become the owner of two hundred and fifty acres in the home farm and about two hundred and fifty acres in other parts of the county. He was well known and esteemed in the community in which he lived and served for several years as trustee of Huron county. His death occurred in 1894, but his wife still survives him at the age of seventy years. In their family were four children: William, of this review ; Lydia, the deceased

William Erf has always made his home in Huron county, residing in Peru township until twenty-six years of age, while in the meantime, he attended the district schools of that township and also studied for a short time at Monroeville, Ridgefield township. Having been reared to agricultural pursuits, he wisely chose this as his life work and is now numbered among the prosperous and representative farmers of his county. The year 1883 witnessed his arrival in Lyme township, where he purchased his present farm of one hundred and fifty-three acres from his father in 1893. He has made many improvements upon the place, erecting a fine large residence and commodious and substantial barns and outbuildings. Aside from his farming interests, he is also proprietor of the Chestnut Ridge Dairy and this branch of his business is proving an important factor in his present success. He is president and director of the Star Creamery Company of Monroeville and is also a director of the Hess Hardware Company of that place. His business is conducted with keen discernment and is most carefully managed, so that he receives therefrom most gratifying returns.

Mr. Erf was united in marriage March 8, 1883, to Miss Minnie A. Scheld, a daughter of Philip and Wilhelmina Scheld, natives of Germany. Her birth occurred in Peru township and she was the fifth in a family of six children, the others being: Bertha, Lewis, August, Amelia and Lydia. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Erf has been blessed with four children: Norma, Cora, Elzy and W. P., all at home.

Mr. Erf is a member of the Evangelical church and his life at all times has been in keeping with its teachings. He has served as a member of the school board for some time and is at present clerk of the board, while at all times he is deeply and helpfully interested in all matters pertaining to the material, intellectual and moral welfare of the community. Mr. and Mrs. Erf are among the most highly respected and prosperous citizens in the community.

F. William Bishop

E. William Bishop, who carries on general farming in Peru township, is one of the enterprising and progressive agriculturists of the community. He owns one hundred and twenty acres of rich farm land, and it was upon this place that he was born May 26, 1859. His parents were Arsineus and Tracy (Schaefer) Bishop. The father was born in Baden, Germany, and when a young man came to the United States, settling in Huron, Ohio, where he worked at the shoemaker's trade, which he had learned in Germany. He lived there until about 1845, when he bought the farm upon which our subject now makes his home. The improvements upon the place were of a very primitive character, consisting of a log house and log barn, and the land was nearly all covered with timber. With resolute spirit, such as was shown by the pioneers who faced the hardships and privations of frontier life, Mr. Bishop began clearing the place, cutting away the trees, grubbing up the stumps and clearing away the brush until he transformed the land into productive fields. From time to time he made substantial improvements and his property became one of the excellent farms of the locality. At all times he was progressive in his citizenship and cooperated in many movements for the general good. He died in 1884 at the age of seventy-two years and the community mourned the loss of one of its highly respected and worthy citizens. His wife in her girlhood days had come to Huron county with her parents, F. W. and Elizabeth Schaefer, and had settled at Monroeville about 1840. Subsequently they removed to Seneca county. Mrs. Bishop died in 1902 at the age of seventy-four years. By her marriage she has become the mother of six children: Frank J., now deceased; Elizabeth C., a resident of Crawford county, Ohio; E. William; J. R., who is also living in Crawford county; Maggie, deceased; and Alfred P., likewise a resident of Crawford county. The father had been married twice and by his former marriage had two children: Joseph, who died in the army; and Thomas, who is living in Fairfield township.

F. William Bishop spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farm lads of the period and locality. He remained on the home place until twenty-six years of age and was then married, after which he removed to Auburn, Indiana, being employed in the shops at that place. He also worked along industrial lines at Garrett, Indiana, securing a situation in the railroad shops at that point, and later he went to Fostoria, Ohio, where he was employed in the glass works. Subsequently he removed to Tiffin, Ohio, and worked in the Stove foundry for about eleven years. During that period his wife died and he returned to Huron county to take care of the farm and of his mother, remaining with her until her demise.

Mr. Bishop had wedded Miss Helen Hipp, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Koppler) Hipp, of Seneca county, Ohio. The marriage was celebrated April 29, 1884, and they became the parents of four children: Fred V., Martin J., Isabelle E. and Linus D. Mrs. Bishop, who was born in Seneca county, Ohio, in June, 1858, died in Tiffin, Ohio, Septémber 27, 1899, her remains being interred in St. Joseph cemetery at that place. Mr. Bishop is now living alone with his two sons and carries on general farming, working diligently and persistently to secure the success which is the merited reward of all honorable labor. He belongs to the Catholic church of Peru township, and is well known as a representative citizen of the community.