Huron County, Ohio - The whole text, 1909 (part 23 of 29)

Daniel S. Morse, the father of Daniel J. Morse, was born in Washington, Massachusetts, and came to Huron county, Ohio, about 1820 or 1822, making the journey by way of the lake to the town of Huron, where he hired an ox team and in that manner proceeded to Greenwich. He remained there for only a year, however, after which he settled upon a farm in Bronson township, where he remained until called to his final rest. This is the only farm in Bronson township that has never passed out of possession of the family nor never had a mortgage upon it. He diligently pursued his work in developing and improving his property and became recognized as one of the leading agriculturists of the community. Moreover, he was a prominent and influential citizen and filled various positions of public trust in his township. He acted for at time as justice of the peace, his decisions being strictly fair and impartial and for twenty-six years prior to his death he was the trusted and reliable treasurer of the township. Both he and his wife were consistent members of the Congregational church, in the work of which he took an active and helpful part, serving for many years as one of the deacons and doing everything in his power to promote the growth and extend the influence of the society. In early manhood he had married Lucy Jeffords, also a native of Washington, Massachusetts, and they became the parents of nine children, Lois, Mary L., Edward, Daniel Jay, Laura, Theodore, Martha, Jacob and Ellen. Of this family Edward, Daniel and Jane are the only ones now living. The homestead of one hundred and twenty acres, which the father long owned and which he left at the time of his death, still remains undivided.

Daniel Jay Morse was reared on the old home farm, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lost of the agriculturist in his efforts to profitably till the soil. When but a boy he took his place in the fields as soon as old enough to handle the plow and continued to engage actively in general farming until he retired from business life. His education was acquired in the public schools and in the school of experience he has also learned many valuable lessons, That his methods of farm work were practical and brought substantial results 15 indicated in the position to which he has attained among the men of affluence in the county.

In 1859 Mr. Morse was united in marriage to Miss Orpha Watrous, a daughter of Cyrus and Emily (Barber) Watrous, of Erie county, Ohio. Three children were born of that marriage: Charles Watrous, who was born in 1861 and is a railroad William S., born 1865; and Emma, who was born in 1874 and is now deceased. Having lost his first wife, Mr. Morse was again married on the 22d of

September, 1907, to Eva Belle Tremley, a daughter of William and Sarah Ann (Hoffmire) Tremley. Mr. and Mrs. Morse are now living in North Fairfield, he having sold his farm and taken up his abode in town, there to enjoy well earned rest. His money is now loaned out and he derives from his investments a good income. Both he and his wife are consistent members of the Methodist church. His life has always been honorable and upright and has ever been in conformity to a high standard of business principles. Neither has he been indifferent to good citizenship but has sought the good of the community through his cooperation in many public measures. He has lived to witness remarkable changes in the county, including the building of railroads, the introduction of the telegraph and the telephone, the adoption of all modern farm machinery and the employment of all modern means for intellectual, aesthetic and moral progress as well. He rejoices in what has been accomplished and has given stalwart support to many movements which have been directly beneficial to this section of the state.

Franklin C. Wood

Among the men of Greenwich village, distinguished for exceptional bravery is Franklin C. Wood, the town marshall, who was born November 1877, in Cass township, Richland county, Ohio, and is a son of John W. and Mary E. (Darling) Wood. Both parents were also natives of that township, to which the paternal grandfather, James C. Wood, had come from New York state. He was among the early settlers there and cleared the land of the heavy timber with which it was covered. As the township grew he became prominent in its affairs, and was one of the four that organized the republican party in Cass township. He himself did not serve in the Civil war, but he sent four sons to fight for their country, two of whom died in the service. Kellum succumbed to disease while with his regiment; William died from the effects of a wound received in the battle of Bull Run; Charles served four years and after the war went to Kansas, where he died; and Andrew was in the one hundred days' service, and still lives in Shiloh, Ohio.

John W. Wood, the father of Franklin C. Wood, was too young to enlist. For many years he was a farmer of Richland county and later of Huron county, and in the year 1906, removed to Greenwich village, where he has since resided with his family, pursuing the carpenter's trade. His wife's father, William E. Wood, was also an early settler in Cass township, Richland county, and was one of the four men who organized the republican party there. He was accidentally killed many years ago, by having his clothing caught in the tumbling rod of the old horse-power thresher. Mr. and Mrs. John W. Wocd, became the parents of two children: Florence, who died in infancy ; and Franklin C., the subject of this sketch.

As a young lad and into the period of his young manhood, Franklin C. Wood lived and worked on his father's farm, receiving his education at the district schools of the county. He later entered upon the life and work of farming, which he pursued for several years after his marriage, until 1906, when he came to

Greenwich village. In August of the following year, he was appointed marshall to fill an unexpired term and in November was duly elected by popular vote to the same office for a term of two years. On more than one occasion, the people have had reason to congratulate themselves on the wisdom of their choice, for Mr. Wood has proved a most valuable officer, but perhaps never more than upon the morning of December 16, 1908, a day that has gone into the annals of the village, when Mr. Wood proved himself a man of stupendous courage and iron nerve. Even as he with all modesty recounts the occurrence, it is one that excites our admiration and wonder. In the early morning of December 16, 1908, while going upon his rounds, Mr. Wood encountered four men in the street, evidently intent upon robbing the banks of the village. Upon accosting them, he was led into a trap between some box cars standing on a side track, and then suddenly found that he was facing a brace of revolvers. He was ordered to throw up his hands, which he did, but his own revolver came up with them and one of the men fell dead from the shot which he pulled. This of course brought the remaining men upon him with renewed force; they fired on him and then engaged in a hand to hand struggle, in the course of which he was overpowered and left for unconscious, the men retiring to some distance to look after their fallen comrade. He was not so much used up as appeared, however, but managed to get his guns into working order again, and doubtless would have ended the life of another man, had they not discovered his activity and pounced upon him with increased vindictiveness, jumping on him, kicking him and literally trampling him into the ground, where they left him to make their own escape. Unconscious he was indeed this time, but with the passage of the hours soon gained sufficient power to drag himself to a pool of water from which he revived himself sufficiently to call for assistance. There was immediately great commotion, the wounded marshal was put aboard a fast Big Four train, flagged for the purpose, and hurried to the hospital at Galion, where for many days his life hung by a slender thread. After six weeks, he was pronounced to be able to leave the physician's care and to go to his home in Greenwich, but even there the period of his confinement to his bed was prolonged for three months longer. He is now able to be about town, though he is still very weak from the many thrilling experiences through which he has passed the last being the fourth that almost resulted in death to him, though the three preceding ones were merely accidental. On the occasion of the first, he was kicked severely by a horse, the second time a tree fell on him, and on the third, he was caught in some machinery. In each case, he was so badly injured, that his life was despaired of, but on each occasion, as on this most recent, he has pulled through. It is needless to say that the three assailants on the night of December 16, escaped, but he who was killed was identified by the Pinkerton Detective Agency, as Edward Quinn, a criminal with a long record, who was sought for in many cities. It is believed that it was the intention of the men to rob at least one of the banks of Greenwich, and in recognition of the marshal's bravery and opportune frustration of the robbers' operations, a purse of substantial size was presented to him. The Casualty and Security Company, which carried burglar insurance on the banks, and the Ohio Bankers' Association each contributed one hundred dollars, and the subscriptions of the other banks and from the citzens of the village brought the sum up to twelve hundred and fifty-

On the 12th of December, 1902, Mr. Wood was married to Miss Myrtle G. Martin, a daughter of Joseph and Julia (Weygant) Martin, of New London, where the father is living in retirement after an active life as a farmer. One child, Thelma G., has been born of this union. Mr. Wood and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and she is also a member of the Ladies of the Maccabees. To the Knights of the Maccabees, Mr. Wood belongs and to the Greenwich Lodge, No. 640, of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In politics, he is a republican and is an effective party worker. After the incident narrated above, it is but repetition to say that he is a man of unflinching nerve, of fixed determination, and one who believes in doing right, because it is right, and while these qualities are inestimable they are fully appreciated by Mr. Wood's fellow citizens, a knowledge and satisfaction that is afforded to but comparatively few persons.

William Franklin Darling

A. well impoved farm of ninety acres pays tribute to the labor and care bestowed upon it by William Franklin Darling, one of Ohio's native sons, whose birth occurred in Richland county, January 2, 1856. He is a son of William and Lydia (Shoup) Darling, both natives of Richland county, Ohio, the former born in 1811. The father, who was the second white child born in that county, spent his entire life within its borders, passing away in 1874. He was twice married, his first union being with Miss Lydia Shoup, while for his second wife he chose Miss Leah Wagner, a native of Crawford county. Two children were born unto the first union, Mary and William F.

No event of especial importance came to vary the routine of life for William Franklin Darling during the period of his boyhood and youth, which were spent on his father's farm amid the scenes and environments of rural life. He attended the district schools in the acquirement of his education, and under the capable direction of his father received thorough business training which well equipped him for the practical and responsible duties of life. He remained at home until his marriage and in the year following that event, he purchased the farm upon which he now resides and which has been in his possession for the past thirty-two years. He has directed his entire energies toward its further improvement, has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation and has erected substantial, modern buildings, while upon the place are found all of the conveniences and accessories that go to make up a model farm. In the management of his affairs, he manifests excellent business ability, and his close application and untiring industry are the salient elements in the prosperity which he now enjoys.

Mr. Darling was united in marriage on the 3oth of December, 1876, to Miss Catherine Wentz, who was born November 27, 1854, in Richland county, Ohio, her parents being Solomon and Catherine (Firewood) Wentz. She had three sisters and two brothers all younger than herself, namely: Mary, George, Anna,

Clara and Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Darling became the parents of three children, as follows: Effie, who was born in 1877, and married Joseph Hodge, by whom she has three children: Adon, Alice and Martha; Pearl, whose birth occurred in 1884; and Mary, born 1800. The family are members of the Lutheran church at Shiloh, Ohio, in the work of which they are interested and to the support of which they are generous contributors. Mr. Darling gives his political allegiance to the republican party, but has no desire for office, preferring to concentrate his time and energies upon his business interests in which he is meeting with signal success, being now ranked among the enterprising and progressive agriculturists of Ripley township.

Calvin Whitney

The life record of Calvin Whitney was beautiful in its symmetry, in its purposes and its accomplishments. ín him keen discernment and powers of management were well balanced with a charitable spirit and broad humanitarianism. Because of this his work was of the utmost value in the public life of Norwalk and his history constitutes an important chapter in the annals of the city. He was born in Townsend, Huron county, Ohio, September 25, 1846, and was one of the six children of Charles and Roxanna ( Palmer) Whitney. The father's birth occurred Shelby, Richland county, Ohio, on the 23d of September, 1812, and his father was Henry Whitney, who was born in 1791 in Norwalk, Connecticut. There he married Miss Lucy Grumman and in 1819 they made their way to the western border of civilization - for so it then seemed - and settled in Shelby, Richland county. The family is of English origin and was founded in this country by Henry Whitney, who emigrated irom England, where he was born, about 1620 He became one of the early residents of New England where his family was represented for successive generations in the vicinity of Norwalk, Connecticut, until the removal to the west was made by Henry Whitney, who was the first of the name in Ohio.

Calvin Whitney in his boyhood days worked on the home farm and attended the country schools. He was apt and diligent in his studies, manifesting special fondness for mathematics and, encouraged by a loving mother, he mastered the elements of an English education and at the age of fifteen was much better equipped by mental training for the duties of life than most boys of his age. Lessons of industry, perseverance and integrity were also impressed upon his mind and in the course of years bore rich fruit. He was but eighteen years of age when he started out in life on his own account, undertaking the task of operating a small farm on the shares, but a hail storm ruined his crops and he concluded that Providence did not intend him to follow farming. Therefore, in 1865 with his capital amounting to about four hundred dollars, he embarked in the hardwood lumber business, in which he soon established a credit and by which he won success from the start. His patronage grew rapidly until his sales aggregated about two hundred thousand dollars annually. He possessed superior ability for judging and

In the fall of 1875 the A. B. Chase Company was organized in Norwalk and on account Mr. Whitney's superior knowledge of the lumber business, his record as an executive and the fact that he was a rising young business man of keen discrimination, his cooperation was sought as one of the incorporators of the company, which was organized for the manufacture of reed organs with a capital stock of fifty thousand dollars. Mr. Whitney became one of its first directors and so continued until April, 1877, when on the death of A. B. Chase, he was elected the president of the A. B. Chase Company and continuously occupied that position until his demise. He saw the business grow from a comparatively small beginning to one of extensive proportions and in foreign lands as well as in America its product has a large sale. In what manner Mr. Whitney filled the presidency and caused a newly organized business company to be recognized as among the responsible, respected and prominent industries of the United States, is history with which nearly every one in Norwalk and every piano man in the country is familiar. A man of great versatility he readily adapted himself to changed conditions and to widely different lines of business - and always with success. The word fail had no place in his vocabulary. He knew that when one avenue of advancement seemed closed there were other paths which might be sought out and followed and he never relinquished an honorable purpose.

On the 5th of November, 1868, occurred the marriage of Calvin Whitney and Miss Marian Dean, a daughter of Royal Cady and Marian (Smith) Dean, of Townsend, Huron county, Ohio. They became the parents of four children: Marian Daisy, the wife of E. B. Dillon, of Columbus; Ruby ot this Cy Ida now the wife of Amos W. Gardiner, of Houston, Texas; and Warren Calvin, who is a prominent representative of the A. B. Chase Company. He was born in Norwalk, October 0, 1882, was cducated in the schools of this city, in Ohio University and in Princeton University, in which he was graduated with the class cf 1906. He then entered into active relations with the A. B. Chase Company and now spends much of his time on the road in looking after the interests of the firm. He is a bright young man, fitted by education and training to follow in the footsteps of his father. The wife and mother died November 4, and on the 25th of August, 1904. Mr. Whitney was married to Mrs. Urania A. Todd, who with the four children survives the husband and father.

Some time prior to his demise Mr. Whitney underwent a severe operation, from which he never fully recovered and after an illness lasting more than a year he passed away the sixth day of June, 1909. His parents were members of the Baptist church for fifty years and he was reared in a religious atmosphere and became thoroughly in sympathy with work along moral lines. For many years he held membership in the Methodist church and his religion was always of the cheery kind, his life and his example being its exponent. It is not likely that the amount that he has given for charities and the cause of religion will ever be known because of his desire to give of himself and his money without the plaudits of men. However, his contributions to all branches of church work were most generous and he donated ten thousand dollars to the extension fund of the Methodist Episcopal church for the building of houses of worship in the far west and, giving this in honor of his wife, it is known as the Marian Whitney fund. No tale of sorrow or distress made appeal to him in vain and not only his substantial assistance but also his words of encouragement brought hope into the lives of many who fared forward the better for it. He possessed a marvelous memory and superior intellect which were undimmed during his long illness and though he retired from the active management of the Norwalk business he kept in touch with the piano trade of the country and to within a month of his death continued his correspondence with his contemporaries in that field of labor. The community at his death felt that a priceless possession had been taken, for he was a dominating factor in commercial and manufacturing circles and was equally prominent and honored in all of his relations to the public life and its intellectual and moral progress. He left the impress of his individuality for good upon the community in such a way that will cause his memory to be enshrined in the hearts of those who knew him for years to come.

Madison M. Fast

Madison M. Fast belongs to one of the old and substantial families of Huron county, Ohio, and during his busy life has proven himself worthy of his forebears who were brave, self-reliant men. He was born March 26, 1857, on the farm adjoining his present one in Richmond township, and is a son of E. W. and Hannah (Roberts) Fast; a grandson of Jacob and Catherine (Rex) Fast and Jacob and Lucinda Roberts, and great-grandson of the redoubtable Christian Fast, Revolutionary soldier and Indian fighter. Christian Fast had many remarkable adventures among the Indians, being one of five white men captured by the savages. They camped on the banks of the Maumee river, and shot three of their prisoners, and burned one of them, Colonel Crawford at the stake. Fortunately Christian Fast was able to arouse their superstitious fears and so they spared his life, staining his skin to resemble their own and putting rings in his nose and ears. They tried to induce him to marry a squaw and become one of them, but the valiant white man watched his opportunity and after six months' captivity, managed to escape one night, swimming across the Maumee river. His captors missed him and tried to stop his escape by firing at him, but although the shots fell all about him in the water, he reached the opposite bank unhurt and was able to reach a white settlement three miles distant, although closely pursued by the Indians.

E. W. Fast, father of Madison M. Fast, is now living on the homestead south of that of Madison M. Fast, who operates it for him, the father having retired from active life after many years, spent in farming. While not enrolled as a member of the United Brethren church, he has always been much interested in its work and a liberal contributor to it, and he donated the land on which stands the present church of the denomination in Richmond township. The church edifice adjoins his house. He and his wife became the parents of the following children: Jane, who married Jacob Walker; Mary, who married Scott Sewalt ;

Madison M. Fast was married October 10, 1882, to Susan Resh, a daughter of Henry and Catherine (Thomas) Resh, both natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married, but later removed to Richland county, Ohio, and later to Huron county. Their children were: Henry; Catherine, who married Wesley Sparks; Jacob, who went west and was never heard of afterward ; Joseph, who is decease; Samuel; Mary Anne, who married George W. Ritz; Sarah, who died, married Isaac Snavley; William; and Mrs. Fast. Mr. and Mrs. Fast had six children: M., who married Joseph Mann; Orin; Leroy; Russell; Effie, who is deceased, and Daisy.

Mr. Fast owns ninety-six acres of fine farming land in Richmond township, which he has brought to a good state of cultivation, and he operates it in conjunction with the farm of his father. He has been road supervisor and school director, and in in his political views, he is a democrat and is earnest in the support of his party. His family belong to the United Brethren church. The standing of Mr. Fast in his community both as a farmer and citizen is high, and he has attained it through honorable methods and close attention to his work.

Hubbard D. Palmer

Hubbard D. Palmer occupies one of the most beautiful country homes of Huron county, situated in the midst of two hundred acres of valuable land in Fitchville township. He has other desirable property elsewhere and as the result of his well directed business affairs in former years, is now numbered among the men of affluence in his community. He was born in Fitchville township, this county. His father, Seeley Palmer, was one of the earliest settlers of the county and aided in building the first frame house in Norwalk.

Spending his youthful days in the place of his nativity, Hubbard D. Palmer pursued his education in the public schools, continuing his studies in the Fitchville high school of which Colonel De Wolff was then the superintendent. He entered business life in connection with the construction of the Western Union Telegraph lines at the age of sixteen years, gaining practical experience that was of the greatest benefit to the government when he became connected with the Union army in the Civil war. He was nineteen years of age when he started for California by way of the isthmus. They were about ten days in making the trip across Panama and it required more than forty days to complete the journey to San Francisco. On reaching the Golden state, Mr. Palmer turned his attention to mining and located and bought several claims. He followed hydraulic mining in the mountains and met with fair success, the largest pure nugzet which he tcok out weighinz sixteen and a half ounces. He wears a solid plain gold rinz made from gold which he took out of the mines himself and cherishes it with much pride. Altogether, he was quite successful while in California and, well pleased with his trip, he returned to Huron county, Ohio, after a sojourn of three years in the far west. He spent three weeks in visiting with his parents and relatives and then went south to visit his brother-in-law, Dennis Doren, who was located at the general headquarters of the Army of the Potomac, holding the position of general superintendent of construction of heavy and field telegraph wires for the army. At that time, General Thomas T. Eckert was the general superintendent of the telegraph department and of the quartermaster's office in the general war department, and immediately after Mr. Palmer's arrival in the south, learning that he had been trained in the business of constructing telegraph lines, General Eckert influenced him to become the assistant of Mr. Doren. He consented and remained at such work until the close of the war. When the war was over, General Eckert was made president of the Western Union Telegraph Company, remaining as its chief executive until about two years ago, when he was elected president of the board of directors, which position he still holds. Mr. Doren became superintendent of construction of the Western Union Telegraph Company in the United States and Canada, and was also made president of the Cable Construction Company, continuing in that capacity until his death. Mr. Palmer's duty while in the army included the laying of lines from the corps to the general headquarters. The heavy wires were laid on poles and the field wires were strung on light socket poles and could be taken down and removed almost instantly. The manner in which they were put up enabled one to construct from twenty-five to thirty-five miles per day. They were strung from a reel fastened to the back of mules and were taken in by a similar method. The corps wires were all connected in a wagon expressly constructed for that purpose containing a battery and if necessary the message could then be repeated from the wagon, over the heavy wire to Washington. Mr. Palmer was a witness of every important battle in the east fought from the time that General Burnsides took charge of the Army of the Potomac until the surrender at Appomattox Courthouse. Mr. Palmer was always at general headquarters except for the time he was out building lines to the general headquarters. A large number of their corps were captured and several died at Andersonville prison.

After the war, Mr. Palmer remained with the Western Union Telegraph Company for about two years, repairing its lines which had been destroyed during the period of hostilities. He afterward had full charge, under Mr. Doren, of the construction of overland cable lines from Bangor, Maine, to St. Johns, New Brunswick, through Halifax and Nova Scotia to Plastacove, Great Britian, connecting there with the cable. Thus he was busily engaged for several years, but at length his health failed him and since then he has spent most of his time in Missouri and Ohio. For a period he was engaged in the grocery business and was also busy in looking after his landed interests. He is the owner of more than three hundred acres of rich and productive land. His home place is a farm of two hundred acres in Fitchville township, supplied with all modern improvements, including a beautiful residence which he erected and which is one of the fine country homes of Huron county. He is also a director of the Huron County Bank and his investments have at all times been judiciously placed, so that he is deriving therefrom a substantial income.

Mr. Palmer has been twice married. In 1865, he wedded Miss Euphronia Knapp, who passed away about the year 1878. In November, 1906, he was again married, his second union being with Miss Mina Waterhouse, a daughter of

[srael L. Waterhouse, who was born in Schoharie county, New York, in 1819. His mother bore the maiden name of Miss Hannah Davis and was a daughter of Aaron Davis, one of the heroes of Bunker Hill and a cousin of Commodore Perry. She had a great-uncle who preached a sermon in a Quaker church in Pennsylvania at the remarkable old age of one hundred and four years. She lived to the very advanced age cf ninety-four years. The Davis family was of English lineage.

Israel L. Waterhouse, the father of Mrs. Palmer, came to Ohio in 1848. He was a well educated man and in his younger years taught school. Later he took up the occupation of farming which he continued to follow until his retirement from active business life in the '8os. He then removed to New London, Ohio, where he spent his remaining days in the enjoyment of well earned rest, save for the active participation which he took in the public life of the community. After his removal to New London, he was elected mayor of the town, also served as a member of the city council and in other offices, the duties of which he discharged with promptness and fidelity. His political allegiance was given to the republican party. He assisted in building the numerous churches in New London and, although not a member of any, was always a strong supporter of and a liberal contributor to all. His death occurred October 16, 1897, when he had reached the age of seventy-eight years. On the 4th of November, 1849, he had married Hannah M. Stowe, who was born in Skaneateles, New York, September 7, 1828. They had a family of seven children, three sons and four daughters, all of whom are yet living. Among this number is Mrs. Palmer.

In his political faith, Mr. Palmer is also a republican and has always kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day although not a politician in the sense of office seeking. His religious belief accords with the teachings of the Congregational church. His has been an interesting and eventful life and if written in detail this history would contain many thriling chapters covering his California experiences in the early mining days, his duty on the frontier in the Civil war and his connection with the construction of telegraph lines in the United States. While in later years he has lived more quietly he has manifested the same sterling qualities which have always been characteristic of him and which have gained him the high position which he occupies in the regard of his fellowmen.

Mrs. Emaline McFarland is numbered among Huron county's residents who have long lived in this section of the state, and she has a very wide and favorable acquaintance, many who know her entertaining for her warm regard. She was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, August 20, 1836, and is a daughter of Jacob and Rebecca (Brubaker) Truxell. They, too, were natives of the Keystone state, where they lived until after their marriage and, on removing westward, they took up their abode in Ripley township, Huron county, Ohio, and became identified with the farming interests of the locality in which they settled.

Their daughter, Emaline Truxell, was reared under the parental roof and was educated in the public schools and was early trained to the duties of the household so that she was well qualified to take charge of a home of her own at the time of her marriage. In early womanhood, she gave her hand and heart to Archibald Mc- Farland, who was born in Greenfield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 31st of October, 1822, and was a son of Archibald and Anna (Easter) McFarland. Following their marriage the ycung couple began their domestic life upon a farm in this county and throughout his remaining days Mr. McFarland carried on general agricultural pursuits. He was a man of industry and his diligence and determination, which were among his salient characteristics, brought him a comfortable living and enabled him to leave his family in pleasant circumstances.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. McFarland were born two sons and a daughter, but the eldest, Frank Easter, who was born in 1858, is now deceased. The others are: Julia A., born in 1861; and Archibald Kent, born in 1863. At his death Mr. Mc- Farland left to his family seventy acres of rich and productive land and through the careful management of their property and wise conduct of their business affairs they have increased their holdings until the farm now comprises one hundred eight acres of rich land together with a lct of two and a half acres at North Fairfield, whereon Mrs. McFarland now makes her home. She has passed the seventythird milestcne on life's journey and as she has spent the greater part of her time in Huron county she has a very wide acquaintance here, while her many good traits of heart and mind have endeared her to those with whom she has been brought in contact.

Claude L, Latham

Claude L. Latham, an erergetic, enterprising and progressive agriculturist of Ridgefield township, is devcting his time and energies to the cultivation of his farm o: sixty-cne acres. He was torn in that township on the 13th of October, 1881, his parents being Hardica L. and Ida (Fish) Latham. William Latham, the paternal grandfather of cur subject, made his way westward at an early day, becoming a pioneer settler of Lyme township, Huron county, Ohio. His family numbered eight children, those still living being Ortive, Clayton, Bretna and Ionia, while the deceased are Zahm, Hardica L., Delilah and Hilda.

Hardica L. Latham, the father of Claude L., was born in Lyme township, this county, in 1849, was educated in the public schools of Monroeville and when a youth of eighteen years went west, traveling quite extensively over that section of the country bevond the Mississippi. Finally he arrived in California where he remained ior two years. He was also at sea for a period, sailing between California and South American ports. Returning to Ohio he went upon the farm where his son, Claude L , now lives, in Ridgefield township, Huron county, and was successfully identified with agriculture throughout the remainder of his active business career. He belonged to the Masonic fraternity and was quite prominent politically, being recognized as one of the leading local representatives of the democracy. He capably served in the position of township trustee for several years and was well known and highly esteemed throughout the community. He was a lover of fine horses and owned a number of them. In manner he was genial, courtecus and sociable, and these qualities made him very popular so that his death was greatly deplored by many friends when in 1904 he was called to the home beyond. His wife, who was born in Ridgefield township in 1852, was a daughter of Major John Fish, who won his title by service in the war of 1812. He was born March 6, 1786, in New York, and served all through the second war with England. 1815 he removed to Licking county, Ohio, and ten years later came to Huron county, where he made his home until called to his final rest on the 13th of September, 1866. Mrs. Latham still survives her husband and is yet a resident of this county. Their union was blessed with two children, Claude L. and Goldie C. The latter now makes her home with her mother.

Claude L. Latham attended the district schools in pursuit of an education and was also a student in Monroeville for a time. He was trained to farm work, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist, and this line of activity has since claimed his attention. He now owns an excellent farm of sixty-one acres in Ridgefield township, on which he has placed many substantial improvements. It is a well developed tract of land which is naturally rich and productive and the alluvial soil brings forth bounteous harvests in reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields.

On the grd of January, 1905, Mr. Latham was united in marriage to Miss Ada "Lockwood, a daughter of James C. and Sarah Lockwood, who were early settlers of this county. The Lockwood family, originally from England, settled at Norwalk, Connecticut, while this country was still numbered among the colonial possessicns of Great Britain, and several members of the family participated in the Revoluticnary war which brought independence to the nation. Mrs. Latham's great-grandfather, George Lockwood, built what is known today as the Lockwood road, extending from Norwalk to Milan, Ohio. Her grandfather, Stephen Lockwood. was a native of Allen's Corners, Huron county. He was the first white male child born in Huron ccunty, his natal year being 1821. He served as a soldier of the Civil war, defending the interests of the Union. He became a prominent farmer and stock dealer of this part of the state and was engaged in general merchandising in Milan at the time of the disastrous fire there, which caused him fosses amcunting to thirty-three thousand dollars. His wife, Mrs. Sarah Lock- was a native of Norwalk, Connecticut, born in 1827 and came to Huron ccunty with her parents. James C. Lockwood, the father of Mrs. Latham, was in Huron county in September, 1854. Having arrived at years of maturity he wedded Miss Sarah Beekley, who was born in Milan, Ohio, in 1853. Her father, Anthony Beekley, was a native of Baden, Germany, and came to America when sixteen years of age. He devoted his life to carpentering and to school teaching and was also a musician of considerable note. Fer eight years he engaged in teaching in the Catholic school at Milan. He, too, was a veteran of the Civil war and died in 1906. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Barbara Kellar, was a native of Switzerland and unto them were born six children.

'Unto Mr. and Mrs. Claude L. Latham have been born two children, Ida L. and Howard L. Fraternally Mr. Latham is identified with the Masonic lodge at Norwalk and is a worthy exemplar of the craft. He has always made his home in Ridgefield township and, though still a young man, has also attained a creditable measure of success in the conduct of his farming interests. The name of Latham has figured prominently in the annals of this county from pioneer times down to the present and the subject of this review has ever fully sustained the honorable reputation borne by his father and grandfather.

Louis W. Wickham

The name of Wickham is well in Norwalk in connection with the practice of law, to which profession Louis W. Wickham gives his attention. He was born in this city, November 30, 1866, and is a son of Judge C. P. Wickham, of whom extended mention is made on another page of this work. His grandfather was Judge Frederick Wickham, a representative of an old New England family of Puritan ancestry. The first of the name to come to the west was William Wickham, a native of Rhode Island, and the grandfather of Frederick Wickham.

In the public schools of this city Louis W. Wickham pursued his early education and afterward attended the preparatory school of the Western Reserve University, while later he became a student in Princeton University. He then studied law with his father and was admitted to the bar in 1889, after which he began practice in Norwalk. He has served for five years as prosecuting attorney of Huron county, being elected in 1903 and again in 1906. He was in partnership with his father until September, 1908, since which time he has practiced alone.

In 1892, Mr. Wickham was married to Miss Ellen E. Benedict, a daughter of David D. Benedict, of an old Huron county family. They have four children: Susan, Cora, Fred and Annabelle. Mr. Wickham is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Mount Vennon Lodge, F. & A. M.; Huron Chapter, R. A. M.; and Norwalk Commandery, K. T., of which he is at present eminent commander.

Fred Di Pierce

Fred D. Pierce, a native of Wakeman township, his birth having occurred April 22, 1859, is a representative of a family long and prominently connected with the annals of this township. His grandfather, Amile P. Pierce, brought his family from South Britain, Connecticut, in 1817, arriving in this locality about the same time that C. C. Canfield and Samuel Bristol, accompanied by their families, settled here. These three families constituted the first while settlers in Wakeman township. The district was then wild, its lands unclaimed and its resources undeveloped and Mr. Pierce was obliged to clear the land, then covered by a dense forest, in order to build a cabin for the shelter of his family. Men of the present period can scarcely realize the struggles and dangers which attended the pioneer settlers, the heroism and self-sacrifice of lives passed upon the borders of civilization, the hardships endured, the difficulties overcome. Mr. Pierce, with characteristic energy, participated in the slow, persistent work of development which was necessary to reclaim this land for the purposes of civilization and, permitting no obstacles to overcome his determination and undaunted courage, eventually gained a gratifying measure of success in his agricultura] enterprise, becoming a prosperous farmer and extensive land owner. He was a man of strong, sterling character, his help and counsel being sought by many of the early settlers. He married Miss Electa Blackman ere his removal west and in their family were six children, all of whom attained maturity, but have now passed away. This number included: Minott ; Lemuel; David S.; Bennett, who was drowned in the Defiance river, leaving a family to mourn his loss; Fanny, who became the wife of Horace J. Beecher of Wakeman and both are now deceased; and Ann, who became the wife of Dr. Johnson, of Oberlin.

Of this family David S. Pierce became the father of our subject. He was reared upon the old homestead farm, which he later continued to operate, and was also very successful in his business affairs. A fine specimen of American manhood, he became actively and helpfully identified with the public affairs of the locality, also championing any causes that tended to better the conditions or further the development of the community. He was frequently called to fill various township offices and was always faithful and loyal to the trust imposed in him. He married Miss Julia A. Bunce and their family consisted of two children: Fred D., of this review, and Jennie I., now Mrs. Edward P. Canfield. The father passed away October 22, 1870, his remains being interred at Wakeman, while his wife is still surviving and in her eighty fourth year is in good health and vigor.

Fred D. Pierce, whose name introduces this sketch, was reared upon the old homestead, his time being passed in the pursuits common to the country lad. He attended the schools of Wakeman in the acquirement of his education and remained upon the home farm for a number of years, cultivating the fields and making a specialty of raising thoroughbred Hereford cattle. In 1895, however, he sold the place and removed to Wakeman, where he engaged in the hay and grain business and became a very extensive dealer in those products. He is a man of keen discrimination and sound judgment and his close application to business and his excellent management have brought to him a gratifying degree of prosperity.

Throughout the years of his residence in Wakeman, Mr. Pierce has taken a deep interest in public matters. He is a stalwart republican in politics and served several terms as township trustee, while in 1897, he was appointed postmaster of Wakeman under President McKinley, and is still incumbent in that office, now serving in his third term and performing his duties therein in a way that has gained the approbation and approval of his fellowmen. At the time of his appointment the postoffce at Wakeman was a fourth-class office, but during his terms of service, the business has greatly increased, causing the office to be advanced to the third-class, the incumbent becoming a presidential appointee. Four rural routes have been established, thus supplying free mail delivery to every point.in the township.

Mr. Pierce was united in marriage on the 18th of October, 1880, to Miss Ida E. Barnes, a daughter of George A. and Elizabeth (Sherman) Barnes. Both the Barnes and Sherman families are old residents of Wakeman county, engaged in agricultural pursuits and prominent in the affairs of the community. Mr. Barnes passed away in February, 1888, and is still survived by his wife. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Pierce has been blessed with two sons, David E. and Idane B. The former is in business in Elyria, while the latter is associated with his father in his hay and grain enterprise. After nine years of happy wedded life, Mr. Pierce was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who passed away on the 16th of April, 1889. Mr. Pierce is public-spirited in his citizenship, advocating all measures which tend toward the general welfare of the community, while the matter of public improvements is a cause dear to his heart. Honest and loyal in all relations of life, he has gained the high regard and esteem of all with whom he has come in contact and the consensus of public opinion accords him a high place among the representative and prominent citizens of Wakeman.

Sherman O. Noble

Sherman O. Noble, one of the leading farmers and stock raisers of Ripley township, owning and operating an excellent farm of three hundred and ten acres, was born October 8, 1867, in this township, his parents being W. P. and Eliza (Starkey) Noble. The former, who was born in Richland county in 1839, was a son of Harvey Noble and a brother of William, James, John, Margaret, Minerva and Mary Noble. Throughout his active career, he followed the occupation of farming but is now living retired in Greenwich, in the enjoyment of well earned rest. In early life, he was a prominent figure in community affairs, serving as county commissioner for six years while he likewise filled the office of township trustee and also of land appraiser. He married Eliza Starkey, a daughter of James Starkey of Virginia and the eldest in a family of seven children born unto her parents, the others being Wesley, Reuben, Abraham, Anderson, Jane and Levina. Unto W. P. Noble and his wife were born eleven children, three of whom died in infancy. Those who survived were: Theodore, Sherman, Mina, Elmer C., Allen, Hayes, Winnie and Nellie.

Sherman O. Noble spent the period of his boyhood and youth upon his father's farm and is indebted to the district school system for the educational privileges which he enjoyed. When not engaged with his text-books, he assisted his father in the work of the fields and early became familiar with the tasks that fall to the lot of the country lad. He remained under the parental roof unti! he attained his majority, when, entering business life on his own account, he wisely chose as his life work the occupation to which he had been reared. He has since that time directed his energies toward agricultural pursuits, being the owner of an excellent farm of three hundred and ten acres, situated in Ripley township, which, under the care and labor bestowed upon it, has become one of the valuable and desirable properties of the township. In addition to his general farming, he devotes much time to stock interests, being an extensive buyer and shipper of general stock, while he makes a specialty of breeding heavy draft horses and also thoroughbred short-horned cattle. He is a stockholder in the Clinton Air Line Telephone Company, and his various business interests, which are capably con-

It was in July, 1893, that Mr. Noble was united in marriage to Miss Alice Cherry, the youngest daughter of William and Emma (Hester) Cherry, her sisters being Lina and Rose. As the years have come and gone the home of Mr. and Mrs. Noble has been blessed with three children, namely: Paul, who was born in 1895; Nona, whose birth occurred in 1897; and Thelma, born in 1898. At the polls Mr. Noble gives his allegiance to the republican party, which organization he has supported since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He is now serving his fourth term as township trustee, which office he is filling with entire credit to himself. He is public-spirited in his citizenship, lending his aid to all measures which have for their object the growth and welfare of the community. He is a man of excellent business ability and sound judgment, and the success which he today enjoys has come to him as the result of his own labor, economy and indomitable energy.

Mathias Claus, a retired farmer of Sherman township, Huron county, and the owner of one hundred and thirty-three acres of fine land, was born in Germany, October 20, 1834, and is the son of Mathias and Mary Claus. The parents came to this country with their family in 1852, and settled in Sherman township, where they bought forty acres of land, on which was a log cabin. In this, they made their home for about five years, and then sold that land, buying a larger tract in the same township, which was their home until they were called to their final rest. The father attained the advanced age of eighty-two, but the mother was granted only forty years. By their union, were born five children: Helen, the widow of a Mr. Fisher, and a resident of Bellevue, Ohio; Martin, a resident of Sherman township; Mathias; and George, of Sherman township.

Mathias Claus was but fifteen years of age when his parents came to this county and here he has made his home ever since. He received the greater part of his education in the land of his birth, but after locating here attended night school for a time to become proficient in the English language. He began to learn agricultural pursuits in his early youth and has devoted his life to that calling. On his present farm, he has lived for a period of thirty-seven years and during this time has greatly improved its condition and increased its value beyond what it was when he purchased it from John Strupe. For a short period, however, he left the quiet life on the farm for the noise and danger of the battlefield, for in 1864, he enlisted in Company C, Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He joined his regiment at Sandusky, Ohio, and went to Camp Chase, from there going to Nashville, Tennessee. He was in a number of battles and skirmishes in and about Nashville, and at the battle of Franklin, was severely injured by jumping over a breastwork. In 1865, he was mustered out at Nashville, after which he returned to his home and has engaged in farming ever since

On the 2d of January, 1867, Mr. Claus married Miss Josephine Shank, a daughter of Frank and Helen Shank, of Sherman township. Mrs. Claus was born in Germany, February 14, 1846, and came to this country with her father at the age of eighteen. They settled in Norwich township, where the father died at the age of seventy-five. The motber had passed away many years before in Germany, being only forty-two years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Shank were the parents of six children, four of whom are living, the two oldest sons, Frank and Benjamin, having passed away. Of the others, Elias lives in Norwich township; Josephine is the wife of our subject; Carrie is living in Fremont and Agnes in Tiffin, Ohio.

Mr and Mrs. Claus have been blessed with nine children: Frank, living at home; Carrie, the wife of Frank A. Heddle, of Monroeville and the mother of four children: Clarence, Loretta, Irene and Walter; Mary, the wife of John Rossman, of Monroeville and the mother of two children: Oliva and Lucien; Josephine, who is the wife of Ed. G. Bick, of Peru township and has one daughter, Beatrice; William, who married Miss Florence Holliday, lives in Peru township, and has three children: Colletta, Donald and Josephine; Louisa, living at home; Joseph, who lives in Peru township; and two youngest, Emma and Fred, both at home. The family are all members of the Catholic church at Bismarck.

Mr. Claus has taken an active part in local affairs as a strong republican and has served as road superintendent as the choice of his party. He has also for several terms been a member of the school board, giving his aid to any progressive movements in the cause of local education. After having put aside the more onerous of his life's duties and responsibilities, he lives in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil and in the good will of those who know him, for he is a man who has made and retains many stanch friends.

One of the notable places of Greenwich township is the Fairmount Stock Farm, not only because of its old rural beauty and completeness but for the public-spirited character of its proprietor, William T. Silsby. He was born on the 15th of April, 1868, in East Cleveland, Cuyahoga county, Ohio, and is the son of Sylvester and Beulah (Brockway) Silsby. The mother was a native of Utica, New York, but the father was born in Ackworth, Connecticut, and was a direct descendant of one of the pilgrims who came to this country in the historic Mayflower. During their childhood Mr. and Mrs. Silsby were brought to Ohio by their respective parents, the families locating in East Cleveland, the father becoming the owner and operator of stone quarries but later in life turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. He died in August, 1894, honored and respected by all who knew him, and his wife passed away in December, 1898.

William T. Silsby was liberally educated in the public schools of Cleveland and was reared among the busy activities of a farm near that growing city. Here he laid the foundation stone of all successful life - the power and spirit of work. After his marriage he located in Dawson, Fayette county, Pennsylvania, where for one year he was employed as foreman of the works of the W. J. Raney Coal & Coke Company but at the end of that time he returned to Cleveland and the following six years were devoted to farming and to the dairy business. Selling his interests in that city in 1899, he came to Huron county and purchased the old Cyrus Mead farm of three hundred and twenty acres of excellent land in Greenwich township. This is a well improved place and to its further development and cultivation he has since devoted his energies, being successfully engaged in both general farming and stock-raising. He makes a specialty of breeding fine draft horses and short horned cattle and the products of the Fairmount Stock Farm have become widely known for their excellence. One of his sons, Charles W., is devoting considerable attention to the raising of rose comb white Leghorn chickens. In the midst of the farm stands a fine country home equipped with all of the modern appliances, the house and barns being lighted by a private electric plant and supplied with water by their own system of waterworks. hospitality is dispensed and friends served unstintedly, the Silsbys being noted for much graciousness the countryside over.

It was on the 31st of March, 1891, that Mr. Silsby was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Stoltzenberg, a daughter of Christian and Fredrika (Yurand) Stoltzenberg, of Cleveland. Her father, who was a well known farmer and hotelkeeper, and was highly respected, died some years ago, but her mother is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Silsby have become the parents of seven children, all sons, namely: Ralph H., deceased; Christopher C.; Charles W.; Oliver P.; Harry 7.; Valentine T.; and Lincoln W. have been provided with excellent educational privileges, Mr. and Mrs. Silsby taking an active interest in educational affairs and realizing the value of good school privileges. Christopher C. is attending the Greenwich high schoo! and is an enthusiastic ball player and all around athlete.

In addition to his other business Mr. Silsby was one of the promoters of the Clinton Airline Telephone Company, of which he is now president and which makes a specialty of rural service. This company has only been in existence for the past four years but already has about five hundred patrons and is connected with other rural lines, giving free service to more than one thousand patrons. At this rate of rapid growth the Clinton Airline bids fair to become one of the leading telephone companies of the state.

A man who attends successfully to his own private interests is generally willing to lend his talents to the prosecution of public interests. With fine public spirit Mr. Silsby has always entered actively into the public life of the community in which he has happened to reside. The late movement for good roads has found in him an especially active friend, and he was sincere and successful in his advocacy of the forty thousand dollar bond issue to improve Greenwich township roads, Having reared a family of bright children, he naturally has always been a great friend of cducation and the idea of the centralized school has appealed strongly to him. But it is useless to further enumerate the public improvements which have at ditferent times secured his support, for Mr. Silsby has always been the forefront the battle for the uplift of society. A democrat in politics, Mr.

Silsby is active in the interests of his party. He is a member of the county board of elections and while a party man, he has the name of being fair to the opposition.

Socially he is a member of O. K. Lodge, No. 616, K. P., and is also identified with the Greenwich Lodge, No. 640, I. O. O. F. In the former he is a past chancellor and is at present a member of the board of trustees of the lodge. He is a great worker while he works, but he believes in the maxim work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." season therefore he indulges in hunting and fishing and is known as one of the best sportsmen in the township.

Lewis Woodruff

Lewis Woodruff is an active factor in business circles in Fairfield township, where he owns and occupies a farm of one hundred and thirty acres. His attention, however, is not all given to the tilling of the soil for he also devotes some time to carpentering and is leading a very busy and useful life. He is numbered among the native sons of the county, his birth having occurred in Peru township on the 7th of Arpil, 1852. His parents were Chancey and Juliet (Sanders) Woodruff, the former born in Huron county in 1820 and the latter in Peru township in 1827. The paternal grandfather of our subject was George Woodruff, while the maternal grandparents were John and Maria (Cleary) Sanders. Unto the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Chancey Woodruff were born two sons and a daughter: L ewis, Stanley and Nellie.

The youthful days of Lewis Woodruff were quietly passed in the pursuits of the home farm. He obtained his education in the public schools and through the periods of vacation worked in the fields, assisting his father in their development. He was early trained to habits of industry and economy and learned valuable lessons concerning persistency of purpose and unfaltering diligence.

On the 19th of January, 1876, Mr. Woodruff was married to Miss Addie Felton, who was born in Norwich township, Huron county, February 13, 1855. Her father, Ephraim Felton, was a son of James and Eunice (Wheeler) Felton, and, having arrived at years of maturity, he wedded Mary Gilson, by whom he had three children: Asa, Celia and Melissa. For his second wife he married Mary Ann Fitch, who was born in Huron county, Ohio, in 1810 and was a daughter o£ Berlin and Susanna (Hawks) Fitch. The children of the second union were: Addie, Mary, Lillian and Emma. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Woodruff has been blessed with five children: Marion, who was born in 1877 ; Stanley, in 1878; Anna, in 1880; Myrtle, in 1886; and Harry, in 1889.

Since attaining his majority Lewis has resided upon a farm and is the owner of one hundred and thirty acres of productive land which is well improved and returns to him a gratifying income because of the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields. He is now working at the carpenter's trade and in that department of business displays skill and ability, possessing much natural mechanical ability and ingenuity. In community affairs, he is interested, co-operating in many measures for the general good. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and for six years, he served as a trustee of Fairfield township.

Fraternally he is ccnnected with the Maccabees and the Grange. Having spent his entire life in this locality, he has a wide acquaintance and his record as a business men and citizen entitles him to the friendly regard in which he is unifcrmly held.

Albion D. Maynard, who for a number of years combined the occupation of rarming with his trade as a blacksmith, is now conducting a blacksmith and repair shop in Boughtonville. He was born in Ripley township, January 12, 1848, and is a son of Deranzil and Annis (Ingersoll) Maynard. The father was born in the state of New York in 1812 and was a son of David and Nancy Maynard, who were the parents of nine children: David, John, Deranzil, George, Ira, Mary, Laura, Lucy and Thomas. The mother was born January 19, 1816, and was a daughter of Ralph Ingersoll and his wife. To them were born seven children: Luther, Lewis, Darius, Harriet, Amanda, Annis and Polly. To Mr. and Mrs. Deranzil Maynard have been born six children: Nancy F., David A., Albion D., Robert A., Lucy L. and Mortimer I. The father followed the life of a farmer and was active in the public affairs of his township, not shunning the duties of office when the people wished so to hcnor him. He has been a stanch republican since that party was organized to supplant the old line whigs, and to support the nation in its hour of need.

The son of a farmer, it was but natural that Albion D. Maynard should follow the same kind of work. In his youth, however, he learned the trade of a blacksmith and finding it profitable hes from time to time engaged exclusively in practicing it. For twenty years, he lived in Michigan, farming and working at his trade. Ohio proved to be the state with the stronger attractions and Mr. Maynard returned to his home where he has remained since. His reputation as a skilled workman having been made, the Rinehart & Dennis Construction Company engaged him several years ago to act as foreman over those engaged in their carpenter and trestle work. He was employed by that firm for four years but since the expiration of that time he has not sought other positions as he finds he has all he can do with the work that is brought into his shop.

Mr. Maynard was still in the first years of his young manhood when, on the 28th of August, 1870, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Downey. She was born in Lorain county, Ohio February 4, 1852, and is a daughter of David L. and Ann (Wilkinson) Downey, the former a native of New York, the latter a Canadian. They were the parents of Orilla, Elizabeth, Priscilla, Elizabeth, Doris, Catherine, Serah, Flora and Lorenzo. Mr. end Mrs. Maynard's union has been blessed with three children, all of whom have married and established homes of their own. Clifford, born September 23. 1873, married Miss Bertie Cleverly and they have one child, Donald. Iva, born in 1875, married Frank Gleason. Annis, born September 20, 1878, married Cortland Miller, who is a minister and is located at Walton, Indiana.

The family were reared in the Christian church and still live up to its teachings in so far as they are able. Though not a politician nor active in public affairs,

Mr. Maynard never misses an opportunity to cast his vote for the republican candidates, feeling that it is the duty of every citizen to exercise his right to ballot and believing that that party makes for the stability and progress of the nation's government. A hard working man and conscientious, he has made firm friends among his fellow members of the Tribe of Ben Hur.

Dr. Downing H. Young, whose ability is manifest in the large practice which is accorded him in Wakeman and throughout the surrounding country, was born October 7, 1842, in Mansfield, Ohio, his parents being Downing H. and Angeline (Marvin) Young. The grandfather Lemuel Young was a Virginian came to Ohio at a very early date, settling in Holmes county, near Millersburg. He devoted his entire life to the occupation of farming. His son Downing H. Young was born in Virginia, August 6, 1816, and left home when sixteen years of aze. He then went to Shelby, Ohio, where he remained for two years, after which he went to Peru, Ohio, and learned the trade of blacksmithing. He followed that for only a brief period, however. Subsequent to his marriage, which occurred on the 6th of September, 1836, he engaged in merchandising and while devoting his attention to the conduct of his store he also took up the study of law and was admitted to the bar. He practiced both in Shelby and Mansfield, becoming a resident of the latter city and as the years passed he attained eminence in his profession. He was very active in the days of the Civil war, doing much toward raising troops and giving four sons to the service. Throughout his entire life his citizenship was of a most loyal and progressive character, his cooperation being always counted upon to further any movement for the public good. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Angeline Marvin, was the eldest of fourteen children and the first white child born in Sharon township, Richland county, Ohio, on the site of what is now the city of Shelby. Her parents were Stephen and Sarah (Moyer) Marvin, Connecticut people, who came to Ohio about I814. Her maternal grandmother in her maidenhood bore the family name of Burr and was a close relative of Aaron Burr. Her family had from the government some of the "Fireland Land Script" for property destroyed by the British. This brought the Moyer family to Ohio and they located land on Blackfork at Shelby, developing there a homestead property which is still in possession of their descendants.

Downing H. and Angeline (Marvin) Young had a family of eleven children: Hercelia J.; Mary A.; Elmira A.; Samuel Hinkley; Henry St. John; Andrew Jackson; Downing Howard; Stephen Marvin; Daniel Sherwood; Sarah Angeline; and Grace. Of these Hercelia J., Elmira, Downing, Stephen and Sarah are still living. One son, Samuel H. Young, was a member of Company C, First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under the command of Captain John McLaughlin, enlisting in response to the first call for three months' troops. He participated in the first battle of Bull Run and on the expiration of his term of enlistment he rejoined the army as a member of Company C, Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was attached to Sherman's brigade. He participated in a number of contests with the enemy and was injured at the battle of Pittsburg Landing. He bore a lieutenant's commission, but his injury necessitated his resignation from the service. Later when he had sufficiently recovered he joined Company H, of the One Hundred and Twenty-eight Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was assigned to garrison duty on Johnsons Island. He was also a lieutenant in this organization and at the close of the war received a lieutenant's commission in the regular army. He was relieved from duty in 1866 and, returning home, took up newspaper work as editor and publisher of the Shelby Chronicle, continuing in active connection with that paper until his death in 1869. Another son, Henry St. John, was a member of Company C, Sixty-fifth Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was a sergeant aud was killed at the battle of Stone River. A third son, Andrew Jackson, was a member of Company C, Sixty-fifth Regiment of Ohio Infantry and died in Danville, Kentucky, from pneumonia contracted while on the line of duty. Downing H. Young, of this review, was also a soldier, enlisting in Company E, One Hundred and Twenty-eight Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until the close of the war, doing post duty at Johnsons Island. A son-in-law, Jerome B. Howard, who was the husband of Elmira Young, was a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Regiment and while on his way from Columbus, where he had been on detailed duty, to join his command, he was captured and sent to Andersonville prison, where he died. He was a man of fine education and high attainments. After her husband's death his widow studied medicine, winning her degree in the Womans' College in New York in 1868. She then located in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she practiced for many years and was eminently successfui. She chaperoned a company of voung ladies from Cincinnati to the Vienna exposition and during that time took a post-graduate course at the Vienna Hospital. She has now retired from active practice, however, and resides with her son Hiram M., who is an electrical expert, at Palmyra, Illinois. Another son, Jerome B., an editor of the Phonographic Magazine of Cincinnati, is also proprietor of the Pitman shorthand system and likewise a musician of much renown. The military record of this family is certainly a remarkably one and their history in other directions is that of successful achievement.

With his family Downing H. Young, Sr., removed to Toledo, Ohio, in 1857, and there engaged in the practice of law until June, 1860, when he established his home at New Haven, Huron county, where he resided until his death and where the family home it yet maintained. For many years, they have been valued and respected citizens of that district.

Downing H. Young, whose name introduces this review, was educated in the schools of Mansfield, Toledo and New Haven, Ohio. His time was largely spent in school up to the outbreak of the Civil war and following the close of hostilities he entered the medical department of the University of Wooster at Cleveland in 1865. He was graduated in May, 1871, and in the intervening years has since given his time, energies and attention to his profession and duties. |

On the 31st of December, 1868, Dr. Young was married to Miss Elizabeth Merrihew, a daughter of Jesse and Charlotte (Lyon) Merrihew, of Knox county, Ohio. They became the parents of two children: Andy Jason and Charlotte M., both of whom still survive, but the mother died in April, 1898. The son is mar- and resides Winfield, Kansas, while the daughter is now the wife of Wallace Wyandt, of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Dr. Young was married a second time December 5, 1900, the lady of his choice being Mrs. Anna Bunelle, of Wakeman.

Dr. Young began the practice of his profession in Steuben, Huron county, where he remained for three years and then went to Delaware county, Ohio, where he spent three and one-half years. He was afterward located at Chicago Junction until 1901, when he came to Wakeman, where he has since practiced. He has always been a close student of everything bearing upon his chosen line of work and reading and investigation have kept him in close touch with the advance of the profession. For four years, he was the coroner of Huron county and was emergency surgeon for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad from 1887 until 1001. At the present writing, he is the president of the Huron county board of pension examiners, of which he has been a member for twelve years. He has also been a member of the Chicago Junction school board for a number of years and health officer for four years. Always active in public affairs, he believes money invested in public improvements is for the general good and does much for the betterment and uplift of the people. Citizenship is to him no mere idle term. He feels that every true American citizen should keep well informed on the political questions and issues of the day and support the principles which he deems most beneficial to the nation at large. He believes also that an intelligent discussion of public issues cannot result but in public benefits and he is ever ready to give a clear and comprehensive exposition of his views and the reasons therefor. The republican party finds in him a stalwart champion because of his firm belief in its platform.

Fraternally be is connected with Wilson Todd Post, No. 359, G. A. R., and in specifically professicrzl lines he is associated with the Huron County Medical Association and also with the Ohio State Medical Association. The Young home is one of the most attractive in the village. Mrs. Young is a zefined and cultured lady and both Dr. and Mrs. Youne are prominent in the social and intellectual life of the community. Their library is well supplied with current literature and the works of the best authors, while the Doctor's volumes treating of professional subjects, are very numerous, giving him light upon the intricate and involved questions that continually arise in daily practice.

Josiah Lawrence

Prominent ameng the pioneers and substantial citizens of Bronson township and Huron county, we present the name of Josiah Lawrence, whose parents, Timothy and Calista (Todd) Lawrence, came to Huron county in early pioneer times and entered the tract of land which is now the home of the subject of this review. Timothy Lawrence was born in Stanford, Connecticut, in 1800, and in 1832 made a permanent locaticn in Huron county. He was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and, coming here as he did when the work of development, improvement and building was at its height, he found ample opportunity to put into practice his knowledge of the builder's art. This proved of great advantage to him, as he was thus able to earn a good living ere he could realize a profit from his farming operations. For several years he also did auctioneering, being engaged in the sale of farm property. In early times he was a whig, later an abolitionist and eventually gave his support to the republican platform. He was a man of much influence in his community, ever ready to assist in any movement or measure calculated to benefit his locality or prove of help to his fellowmen. He was an expert with the sword and in 1830 commanded a company of light artillery at Auburn, New York. His children were: Josiah, of this review ; and Delia. Mr. Lawrence departed this life January 30, 1882, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty-two years, and thus the community lost one of its most highly respected pioneer men. His wife survived for a number of years, her death occurring in February, 1899, when she, too, had reached a very advanced age, being eighty-six years old.

Josiah Lawrence received his education through the medium of the common schools and was reared to the duties of the home farm, assisting his father from the time of early spring planting until crops were harvested in the late autumn. He has always lived on the farm which is stil his home, it being the place of his birth. The tract consists of one hundred and thirty acres, located in Bronson township. It is improved with substantial buildings and everything about the place is kept in good repair. The only interruption to his farm work was at the time of the Civil war, when Mr. Lawrence served hund-ed end thirty days as a member of Company B, One Hundred and Sixty-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under command of Colonel Blake of Medina county znd Captain Martin. The company was engaged during this time principally in guard duty. After returning from the war Mr. Lawrence resumed his farm labors and as time passed ard his financial resources permitted he increased his holdings until he now owns altcgether three hundred and ten acres of as good land as can be found in Huron county. He has always been a noted wood chopper and yet chops several cords of wood each winter.

In October, 1867, Mr. Lawrence was united in marriage to Miss Alice Newmen, and the children born to them were: Even, who was born in 1868 and married Charlotte Hinely; and Mary, who was born in December, 1869, and is now engaged in teaching in the Benedict school of Norwalk. The mother of these children died in June, 1870, and in March, 1871, Mr. Lawrence was again married, his second union being with Miss Maggie Baird, by whom he had one child, Levinia, now the wife of Daniel Stone. Her mother passed away June, 1878, and in December, 1879, Mr. Lawrence married Miss Nancy Rowland, who died on the 12th of May, 1909.

Mr. Lawrence has always given his political support to the republican party and for the past twelve years has served as township trustee. He is also a member of the board of health and was real-estate assessor in the year 1900. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church and he belongs to the Grand Army post. Fond of travel, he has visited twenty different states of the Union and contemplates a visit to California in the winter of 1010-11. Having spent his entire life in Huron county, in the years which have passed, Mr. Lawrence has seen wonderful changes as the county has taken on the evidences of an ad- vanced civilization, and he has not only been a witness of this transformation but has largely aided in the labors which have transformed the wild tract into a splendid agricultural district, while thriving and enterprising cities and villages have grown from mere hamlets. Now at the age of seventy-five years he is surrounded by all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life and can look back over his long and honorable business career without regret. He has ever lived at peace with his fellowmen and all who know him esteem him for his genuine personal worth.

Sebastian Purcell

That the farms of Ohio are valuable investments, furnishing a substantial means of subsistence to those who have thereon settled, has been proven again and again in the fact that Ohio's native sons remain within her borders. To this class belongs Sebastian Purcell, who was born December 17, 1847, on the farm where he has spent his life and which is his present place of residence.

His parents, John and Margaret Purcell, were both born in Germany and on coming to America in 1846, settled in Huron county, Ohio, having purchased the farm, then containing one hundred and seventeen acres, which has since been in possession of the family. It is situated in Peru township, and to the original purchase has been added some twenty-three acres. In the family of John and Margaret Purcell, there were four children: John, now deceased; Kathryn, who married Peter Wallrath and resides at Logansport, Indiana; Anna, who married Mat Grimmer and resides in Peru township ; and Sebastian, the subject of this review The father of this family passed away in 1861, when only forty-two years of age, while the mother, long surviving, died in 1881, when seventy-three years old. John Purcell was greatly interested in the work of general improvement in his own county and in addition to his farming operations, built a number of bridges and for some time heid the position of road supervisor of Peru township, giving his time and service in the building of good roads in this locality.

Sebastian Purcell was reared under the parental roof, assisting his father in the fields during the summer seasons, each fall looking forward to an abundant harvest as the reward of the summer's toil. In the winter months, he sought an education in the district and Catholic schools and in this way spent the day of his youth. In early manhood took upon himself the responsibilities of the agriculturist, following this occupation as a life work. Carefully saving his earnings each year, at length he was enabled to make the old homestead his own, having purchased the farm from his father and, taking great interest in the place, from time to time he has added needed improvements and in the fall of 1909, he expects to erect a modern residence on his property.

On the 17th of February, 1872, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Purcell and Miss Margaret Brown, who was born in Sherman township in 1850, her parents being Fred and Margaret (Pirring) Brown. Unto this union have been born seven children, namely: Albert and Edward, who are yet at home with their parents; Tracy, who married Martin' Habenmeier and is living at Norwalk ; Theodore, of Chicago Junction, Ohio, who married Anna Bishop and has one child, Anna; Olive, living at home; Tillie, of Norwalk, Ohio, who married Mat Zurcher and had two children, Edward and Robert, who died when five months old, August 8, 1909, and Alfonse, who is living at home.

Mr. Purcell has followed general agricultural pursuits all his life and is now ably assisted in this field of activity by his sons, Albert, Edward and Alfonse. In religious faith, he is a Catholic and he gives his political allegiance to the democratic party, firmly believing in the principles of its platform as conducive to the best forms of government. His son Alfonse is a member of the Knights of Columbus of Norwalk, but Mr. Purcell devotes his time and energies exclusively to his business, and success has been the reward of his labors.

Dwight M. Barre

Industry, energy and thrift have characterized the labors of Dwight M. Barre, who is today the owner of eighty acres of well improved and valuable land situated in Ripley township, Huron county, in which township he was born on the 2oth of July, 1848. His parents were John and Amy (Stout) Barre, natives of Pennsylvania and New York respectively, the former born in 1805, while the latter's birth occurred in 1809. John Barre was the son of John Barre, Sr., whose family consisted of the following children: Dwight, David, Herman, Jonathan, Wellington, Henry, Ora, Lyman, James, Corvis, Cornelia, Jane, Marietta, Josephine and Jessie. The maternal grandparents of our subject were Jonathan and Lydia (Mitchell) Stout, whose family of six children included: Amy, Jonathan, David, Eliza, Emily and Hannah.

Dwight M. Barre was reared on the old home farm, his youthful days being passed in a manner similar to that of most farm boys who assisted in the work of the fields and at the same time had the opportunity of acquiring a fair English education in the district schools. After laying aside his text-books, he continued to devote his attention to agricultural interests and has made this occupation his life work. His well kept farm of eighty acres is one of the valuable farming properties of the township and in its neat and attractive appearance indicates the thrift and industry of its owner. Close application, systematic methods and intelligently directed energy have been the salient characteristics in the success which he now enjoys and he occupies a foremost place among: the progressive and influential agriculturists of the community. He is also known in the financial circles of Greenwich as a stockholder in the First National Bank of that city.

Mr. Barre laid the foundations for a happy home life in his marriage on the 22d of December, 1876, to Miss Ella Wolcott, a native of Massachusetts, her birth occurring in that state in 1855. Mrs. Barre is a daughter of Renseller and Augusta (Miller) Wolcott, both natives of the old Bay state, the former's birth occurring in 1830 while the latter was born in 1837. She was a sister of George and Esther Wolcott and her grandparents on the paternal side were Thomas and Sally (Williams) Wolcott. Her mother was the daughter of Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Olds) Miller, in whose family were the following: Augusta, Alfred, George, Frank, Emma, Susan and Hattie. On the paternal side, Mrs. Barre comes from a family which was founded in America 1620, representatives of the name having been active in the affairs of this country in early colonial days. Several members of the Wolcott family were governors of Connecticut, one was secretary of the treasury under Washington's administration while still another was numbered among the signers of the Declaration of Independence. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Barre have been born two children, Walter and DeWitt.

The family are members of the Congregational church, in which Mr. Barre Is serving as treasurer, and he and his wife occupy a high place socially in the community in which they reside. Fraternally, Mr. Barre is a Mason, while in politics he gives stalwart support to the republican party, being in hearty sympathy with its principles and purposes. Having passed his entire life in this township, his life record is well known to his fellow citizens, whose respect, confidence and good will he enjoys in no limited degree.

Frank O. Briggs

A representative of the worthier agricultural class of Huron county, Frank O. Briggs cultivates a fine farm of one hundred and sixty-five acres in Greenwich township. He was born December 7, 1857, on this property, though his has not been a continuous residence there and he is a son of George W. and Joanna Briggs and grandson of David Briggs. The grandfather was one of the very early pioneers of the county, a justice of the peace for many years, and a great hunter and trapper, following this business all over northern Ohio and Michigan. He dealt largely with the Indians and secured their friendship by his kind and honorable dealing. George W. Briggs was the first white child born in Greenwich township. He accompanied his father on his long hunting trips and experienced the fidelity and medical skiil of the Indians. one of the trips, the boy tcok a severe case of the measles and the father, not knowing what to do, finally tcok him to an Indian camp where he left him. When he returned the boy had completely recovered. David Briggs finally settled down in Huron county, where he died in 1864. George W. married, as stated, and lived for a time in Huron, but the inherited spirit of adventure caused him to listen to the siren of the gold fields in the great west, and in 1864 he crossed the plains to Idaho City, the many thrilling experiences being to him like the smoke of battle to the war horse, Mr. Briggs remained in the west until 1876, his wife and children staying in Huron county. The whole family then spent three years in Idaho, at the end of which time the mother returned. In 1882, Frank and his father also came back, giving up frontier life permanently and settling on a farm in Greenwich township. George W. Briggs died here in 1901, aged eighty-one years, the wife having preceded him the year before at the age of eighty. The daughter, Jennie, is now Mrs. T. A. Jenney, residing in California.

Frank O. Briggs, of this review, was reared in Greenwich township and received a good district school education before going west. Just before returning, he married Miss Eliza Stierman, of Idaho City, June 22, 1882, a daughter of William and Anna (Otten) Stierman. Mr. Stierman was one of the California

The later life of Mr. Briggs is briefly told. He engaged in farming for a few years, after his return from the west, then handled agricultural implements at Greenwich village in company with W. J. Richards, under the firm name of Richards & Briggs. Again the call of the west was heeded, and in 1886, the family went back to Idaho, engaging in the dairy business at Rocky Bar. After five years there, they returned to their Greenwich farm, where they have since held continuous residence. However, the spirit of the grandsire is strong, and in 1906 Mr. Briggs returned to Idaho, taking his family, where they spent some eighteen months in hunting and tramping, his son showing his prowess by killing three of the five bears secured, together with numerous other large game.

Frank O. Briggs is alert and active in the life of his home community, serving the public at times in the different offices of township trustee, assessor and member of the school board. the present trustee of the township, he is pushing the good roads idea and with much success. He is an active standpatter in republican politics and as a delegate in the conventions of his party is forceful and judicious in outlining party policies.

Calvin A. Heyman

Calvin A. Heyman, a prosperous young farmer of Sherman township, and the owner of one hundred and ninety-two acres of fine land, in two different farms, was born at Weavers Corners, this township, January 11, 1871, and is a son of Jacob and Clara (Longscheid) Heyman. Both parents were born in Germany, but came to this country at an early age with their respective parents. Jacob Heyman, who is still living on two hundred and fifty acres of land at Weavers Corners, was born December 26, 1836, and was sixteen years of age when his parents William C. and Margaret (Upperman) Heyman came to this country. The latter settled at Hunts Corners, where they lived for about one year, moving then to Sherman township, where they purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land. This was only partly cleared and the house on it was an old frame building. Here they lived until 1862, when they bought land in this locality of Mr. Weaver, which was their home until death called them, the grandíather at the age of eighty-six, the grandmother at seventy-six. They had ten children: William, deceased ; John, killed by a barn door falling on him during a storm ; Charles, who lives in Huron, Ohio; Jacob, the father of the subject of this sketch; Jeanette, who married Philip Stutz, of Three Rivers, Michigan; Philip, deceased; George, of Sherman township; Henry, of Paulding county, Ohio; Fred, of the same place ; and Elizabeth, the wife of William Horn, of Topeka, Kansas.

Jacob Heyman, the father of Calvin A., has lived in this county since he was sixteen years old. He had attended school in Germany, but after coming here was in the employ of various farmers by the year. On the 20th of October, 1861, he was married to Miss Catherine Longscheid, who had come to this county with her parents when fourteen years of age. Her family settled in Sherman town- ship, where the parents both died. They had six children: Elizabeth, deceased ; Margaret; William, deceased; Anthony; Clara, the mother of our subject, and one who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Heyman had a family of thirteen children, nine of whom died before they were seven years old. Those living are: Calvin A., of this review; Clara, the wife of George Setchel, and the mother of one son, Russell; Edward, who was killed in a street car accident at the age of thirty-four; and Amelia, who lives at home. Jacob Heyman is a man who has been prominent in local affairs. He has been a farmer all his life and has filled several offices within the gift of the people, having served as township trustee, justice of the peace, real estate assessor, treasurer, road supervisor and school director. He has always voted the democratic ticket and these offices have been bestowed by the voters of that party. He has been a member of the Reformed church at Hunts Corners and has held office in the congregation the greater part of his life, being the only member now living who helped organize and establish the church in 1865. In short, he is a man, who, possessed of strong qualities, has not hesitated to exert them for the good of the community and the fair name of himself.