Huron County, Ohio - The whole text, 1909 (part 27 of 29)

Spending the period of his boyhood and youth amid the scenes and environments of rural life, Frank Burras attended the district schools in the acquirement of his education, and remained upon his father's farm, assisting in the work of the fields, until he attained his majority. He had early become familiar with the duties that fall to the lot of the country lad, and his decision was therefore a wise one when, entering upon business life for himself, he chose as his life work the occupation to which he had been reared. He has since been continuously engaged in agricultural pursuits and now carries on general farming upon a farm of two hundred acres located in Fairfield township. He devotes much of his time to the raising of sheep, having on hand at the present time about two hundred head, which he keeps mainly for the purpose of selling the wool. His farm, with the exception of eighty acres, which is now one of the well improved properties of the community, was bought and paid for almost entirely from the proceeds of his sheep raising. He is progressive and up-to-date in his business methods and his well directed energy and enterprise are meeting with most gratifying success. The life history of Mr. Burras is well known to the residents of Fairfield township, where his entire life has been spent and where he has gained an extensive circle of acquaintances and many warm friends.

William H. Chapin

William H. Chapin, a substantial farmer of New London township, Ohio, was born July 13, 1848, on the farm where he now lives, and in a home but a few feet removed from the place now occupied by his present residence. He is the son of Daniel L. and Pamela (McIntire) Chapin. The father was born in Fairfield county, Connecticut, June 17, 1798, and shortly after his marriage came to Ohio. At Dover, where he settled, his wife died, and he married Miss Pamela McIntire, a native of St. Lawrence county, New York. In 1845, Mr. and Mrs. Chapin removed to New London township, locating on the farm their son now occupies. The homestead originally contained only fifty acres, but Mr. Chapin was soon able to add twenty to it, making it an excellent property. He was a man of good education and many attainments and before coming to Ohio, had taught school for a number of years in the east. He was the father of three sons. Samuel, the youngest, died at thc age of nineteen, but Eliphalet and William H. are still living. Mr. Chapin died in September, 1885, and his widow on the 22d of February following. Both are buried in the cemetery at New London.

William H. Chapin spent his youth, and in fact his whole life, on his present farm. In the district schools of the township he received his education, In 1881, he brought his wife to the home place, continuing to make it his residence and engaged in general farming and stock raising. He has been a hard and thrifty worker and has added to the inherited land until it has now an extent of one hundred and twenty-nine and one half acres, under the best cultivation and producing richly. In his stock business also he has been very successful. When called upon to exercise his right of franchise, Chapin gives his support to the republican party, and though he is not averse to giving his services to the people, he has not taken an active part in political affairs. For a few years, he held the position of road supervisor and has also served on the school board, in both of which capacities he gave satisfaction to his constituents.

On the 16th of March, 1881, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Chapin and Miss Samantha Ward, a daughter of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Stone) Ward. About 1855, Mr. Ward, with his family, came from New York state to New London township, where he engaged in farming until his death a few years ago. His two sons, Jonathan and Hiram, served in the war of the Rebellion, the latter dying at Beverly, Virginia, from the effects of a wound received in the battle of Allegheny, Virginia. Jonathan Ward served in the Twelfth Ohio Battery to the close of the war and is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Chapin became the parents of two children: Homer, who died in infancy; and Clara M., a young girl of eighteen years, who graduated from the New London high school in 1908. She is an accomplished young woman and makes her home with her father. Mrs. Chapin passed away April 24, 1808.

Mr. Chapin professes allegiance to no religious denomination, but is a believer in churches and the good they render to 'the community. His own life, upright and Christian in the broader sense, he guides by the golden rule, putting this precept into practice daily. A man of wide culture, he has traveled through sixteen of the states of the Union and has visited most of the large cities of this realm, save those on the Pacific slope. He is able to form an intelligent idea of public affairs and conditions and takes an acute interest in the things that concern the welfare of the township and county, is an advocate of progress and the judicous expenditure of the public funds, and is a man who makes his influence felt by those around him.

Levant W. Griffin

Levant W. Griffin, a farmer of New London township, Huron county, Ohio, was born in Greenwich township, this county, May 15, 1861, a son of Orin S and Lucinda (Redfield) Griffin. The grandparents, Robert and Mariah (St. John) Griffin, came with their respective parents from New York state and were married in Huron county, where Orin S. Griffin was born and reared. He followed farming for some time, but was a man of liberal education, who for a period of thirty years was a popular and successful teacher in the schools of this county. For many years he lived in Greenwich township, but in 1885, having been elected county treasurer, he moved to Norwalk, where he resided until his death. He served in that county office for two terms, or four years, and then engaged in various enterprises, until he decided to retire from the active pursuit of business and enjoy the comforts to which his long and active life had entitled him. In May, 1506, he passed away and was mourned by all classes of people as a man of fine character and sterling integrity. His wife, who had come to Huron county an orphan of fifteen years, from Jackson, Michigan, had died in January, 1902. Husband and wife were buried in Woodland cemetery, Norwalk.

Levant W. Griffin grew to manhood on the home farm under the guidance of his parents and attended the public schools of Greenwich village, working around home while he pursued his studies. For one year after completing his education, Mr. Griffin taught school, and then, after his marriage, engaged in farming on the old home place, to which he had brought his bride. In 1892, he removed to Norwalk, where he was employed as book-keeper with Sprague & French. The following year he was engaged in the same capacity by Price & Stewart, a real estate and insurance firm, with whom he remained until 1895, when failing health compelled him to forsake the confining work of an office. He then removed to New London township and engaged in farming. His land consists

On the 29th of November, 1884, Mr. Griffin was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Miller, a daughter of John and Sarah (Jones) Miller, of Fairfield township. Both Mr. and Mrs. Miller were English born, and after their marriage came with their respective families to America about 1850. Miller settled first in Norwalk, where he remained for three years, and then bought a farm in Fairfield township, on which he lived the remainder of his life. He died in October 1895, and his widow now lives upon the home place. To Mr. and Mrs. Griffin were born seven children, two daughters and five sons, all of whom are living. They are Claire, Vernon, Robert, Bernice, Kenneth, Christine and Howard. The family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal church and take an active part in church and Sunday school work.

In politics Mr. Griffin votes with the republican party and is interested and well informed on all matters concerning the people. As road supervisor and a member of the school board, he has rendered the citizens of the township valuable service through a considerable number of years, for he is a public-spirited man, of high principles and progressive in his ideas. His home life is elevating, and his house abounds in good literature, both standard and current. In the one organization to which he belongs, the National Union, Mr. Griffin holds the position of deputy.

Chester B. Brooks

Chester B. Brooks, one of the extensive land-owners of Fairfield township, where he is successfully engaged in general farming, is one of Huron county's native sons, his birth occurring in Peru township on the 6th of January, 1856. He is a son of Philo and Catherine (Noggle) Brooks, natives of Vermont and Ohio, respectively. The father, who was born in Windsor in 1811, came with his parents to Ohio in 1817, while the mother was born in Greenfield township, Huron county, in 1823. In their family were the following children: Helen, Homer, Virgil, Melvin and Chester.

The early life of Chester B. Brooks was passed under the parental roof, and he assisted his father in operating the home farm, early becoming familiar with the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting. He later took up farming on his own account, and that his early training was thorough and comprehensive is indicated in the fact that he has since become very successful in his undertaking. the years have passed his property holdings have increased until today he owns four hundred twenty-five acres of fine land in four separate farms, each of which is under a high state of cultivation. He also engages to some extent in stock raising and his two branches of business are proving most gratifying sources of remuneration to him.

Mr. Brooks was married, on the 12th of October, 1876, to Miss Ida Jennings, a native of Fairfield, Connecticut, and a daughter of Gresham and Polly ( Wheeler) Jennings. She was born in 1858, and by her marriage has become the mother of two children: Anna M. Lee and Stanley Virgil. The parents are members of the Congregational church, and their lives at all times in harmony with the teachings thereof. They are highly respected the community in which they reside, while Mr. Brooks has gained many friends in Huron county, wherein his entire life has been passed, and the success which he has attained along business lines together with his honorable and upright manhood rank him among the prominent and representative citizens of Fairfield township.

Dr. Wilber G. Ferver has gained recognition as one of the able and successful physicians of Huron county and by his labors, his high professional attainments and his sterling characteristics has justified the respect and confidence in which he is held by medical fraternity and the local public. A native of Pennsylvania, he was born on the 22d of February, 1859, in New Castle, that state, a son of William and Eliza (Greer) Ferver, both of whom spent their last days in the Keystone state, the father passing away July 7, 1892, while the mother's death occurred July 8, 1898. In their family were six children, namely; Nancy Y., Samuel C., Elizabeth, William W., Wilber G. and Charles H., all of whom have passed away with the exception of Nancy and Wilber G. The father was a prosperous and successful farmer and an extensive land-owner and it was his wish that his sons should follow the occupation to which they had been reared, starting out in their business career on a farm which he himself should finish.

Wilber G. Ferver, whose name introduces this review, however, was prompted to a professional rather than an agricultural life. His boyhood and youth were passed his father's farm, his early education being acquired in country district schools, pursuing his studies in the "old brick schoolhouse on the hill." He later supplemented this training by a course in the Edinburg State Normal school of Pennsylvania and Alleghney College at Meadville, that state, and with his training as a substantial foundation upon which to base his professional studies, he pursued a course at the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, graduating therefrom in 1884. He first located for practice in Greenfield, Pennsylvania, where he remained for two and a half years, and then, in 1887, he opened an office in Wakeman, Ohio, where he has continued to engage in the practice of his profession ever since. He is progressive in his methods, keeping abreast at all times with the advancement that is being made in the profession, while his excellent training and superior skill have brought to him not onlv success in his calling, but have gained for him high rank in the medical circles of this county, among the people and the profession alike. Aside from an extensive private practice, Dr. Ferver is examining physician for twelve or more of the best old line life insurance companies, which fact testifies to the high place he occupies in the community. He is a member of the Ohio State Medical Association and of the Huron County Medical Association, and frequently reads papers before the meetings of the latter society, his opinions being received at all times with interests by the members of the medical fraternity. Aside from his professional duties, he is also interested in the oil business, being now the president of the

On the rsth of June, 1885, Dr. Ferver was united in marriage to Miss Emma V. Goodge, a daughter of Henry and Nancy (Coover) Goodge, of Poland, Ohio. Mr. Goodge was a carpenter and builder by trade and occupied a very high place in the community. He and his wife still survive and make their home in Youngstown, Ohio.

Aside from the success which he has attained in professional circles, Dr. Ferver has become widely known in the political ranks of this county, being a stanch republican and most actively and helpfully interested in the public affairs of Wakeman. He is a member of the republican central committee and has frequently served as a delegate to the district and county conventions, He has been for several years and is now clerk of Wakeman township and is an excellent official. Loyal and public-spirited in his citizenship to a marked degree, he is a firm believer in public improvements of all kinds, being especially strong in his advocacy of good roads, good public buildings and good schools, while every movement calculated to advance the best interests of the community at large, receives his hearty endorsement. He is also well known in fraternal circles, holding membership in Gibson Lodge, No. F. & A. M. of Wakeman in which he is a past master and senior warden, and is a Royal Arch Mason, while he also occupies the office of king in the chapter. He likewise is a member of the Woodmen of the World and of the Maccabees and is examining physician for both of these orders. He and his wife are members of the Congregational church and are interested in all of the various phases of church work, the Doctor being treasurer of the church for twelve years. He is very fond of a good horse and has bred some very fine specimens, while he is considered an excellent judge of an animal and knows a good horse as far as he can see one. This is his chief pastime and forms his principal source oí recreation and relaxation from the strenuous duties of his profession. He has at all times recognized the obligations that rest upon him in his chosen calling and has, in the course of a successful business and professional career, given evidence of the possession of those sterling traits of character which in every land and clime awaken confidence and regard. A gentleman of learning and culture, he recognizes the truth of the universal brotherhood of mankind.

John Ringlein

Among the German-American citizens of Huron county who are meeting with success along agricultural lines is John Ringlein, who owns and operates a farm of one hundred and forty-five acres of land in Sherman township. He was born in Bavaria, Germany, October 17, 1826, a son of Andrew and Eva (Snyder) Ringlein. The father's death occurred in the fatherland and in 1845, when nineteen years of age, John Ringlein, accompanied by his mother, came to the new world, seeking the broader business opportunities here offered. He landed in county. There he worked on a farm as a farm hand for two years and then went to Norwalk, where he resided for twenty-three years, being engaged in various pursuits during that period. That he was faithful, industrious and capable is indicated by the fact that during twenty-one years of that time he was employed by one man, Milton Goodnor, on his farm. Later, he came to Sherman township, where he had previously purchased seventy-five acres of land from a Mr. Mc- Kenzie, and began farming on his own account. He at once directed his energies toward the further cultivation and development of his farm, and it was not long before his fields were returning excellent crops. As he gathered his harvests, for which he found a ready sale on the market, and his financial resources were thus increased, he added to his property from time to time, first purchasing forty-one acres of land from Eli Horner and later thirty acres more from Miller Brothers, so that today his property consists of one hundred and forty-five acres, all well improved and cultivated. He carries on his agricultural pursuits along practical and progressive lines and is meeting with most gratifying success.

In 1852 Mr. Ringlein was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Waaheit, a daughter of John and Barbara Waaheit, both natives of Germany, where their entire lives were spent. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ringlein were born the following children: Barbara, the wife of Daniel Miller; William; Andrew; Joseph; Frank; Aloise; Mary, who married John Wester, deceased; and Rosa, the wife of William Hafner. The family are all members of the Catholic church and are well known and highly respected throughout the community.

In politics Mr. Ringlein is a stanch democrat and has served as road supervisor and schoo! director, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion. He has never found occasion to regret his determination to come to America, for in this country of broad opportunity, where success comes as the sure reward of earnest labor and industry, he has won a gratifying degree of prosperity and is now comfortably situated in life.

Henry W. Carpenter

Henry W. Carpenter, who follows the occupation of a carpenter and joiner and at the same time operates a farm of forty-one and one-half acres in New London township, was born on the 22d o! May, 1847, a son of Henry E. and Esther M. (Sprague) Carpenter, the former a native of Neversink, New York, born in 1811, while the latter's birth occurred in Troy, New York. The paternal grandfather, Robert Carpenter, when in his twenties, came from England to New York in company with two brothers, Timothy and Seth. Timothy Carpenter purchased a farm on Long Island and later participated in the Revolutionary war, during which time he is supposed to have been killed as nothing was ever heard of him thereafter. Seth Carpenter located at Kingston, New York, while Robert came to Ohio in 1822, locating upon a farm cf seven hundred acres, which he purchased at five shillings per acre. He was a carpenter and wagon maker by trade and continued to engage in that occupation, while at the same time he cleared his land and devoted some time also to farming, being thus engaged at the time of his death, which occurred 1862. Upon his father's farm Henry E. Carpenter, the father of our subject, was reared, and he also took up general farming as an occupation. In 1834, he purchased the farm of which the property of our subject was then a part and continued to make it his home until his death in June, 1885. In his family were seven children, those still living being: Louisa M. Ketchum, J. B. Carpenter and Henry W. Carpenter. The deceased are: W., W. 7., O. E., and Mary A.

Henry W. Carpenter, whose name introduces this review, was reared under the parental roof and acquired his education in the district schools of New London township, passing through consecutive grades until he was graduated in due course of time. He then learned the occupation of a carpenter and joiner and continued to follow his trade, while at the same time he carried on general farming, being thus connected at the present time. Upon the death of his father the old homestead was divided and he came into the possession of over forty acres of land, upon which he now makes his home. He is active, alert and capable in the transaction of his business and his various enterprises, which, being well managed, are proving to him sources of substantial and gratifying income. His fields are under a high state of cultivation, yielding good harvests in the autumn, while many structures throughout the community stand as monuments to his skill and ability as a carpenter.

The year 1875 witnessed the marriage of Mr. Carpenter to Miss Alice Searles, and unto this union have been born three children, Walter S., Arthur B. and Alice L. Walter S., the eldest son, is well known in New London township and has served for four terms as townsbip assessor, during which time he has given a uniform satisfaction that augurs well for re-election.

Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter both attend the Methodist church although the grandparents were originally adherents of the Quaker faith. He is a stalwart republican in politics, and although he is deeply interested in the progress of the party and does all in his power to extend its influence, nevertheless he neither desires nor seeks office for himself, preferring to direct his entire energies to the conduct of his private affairs, which, careiully conducted, are proving a source of gratifying income to him. Having passed his entire life in New London township, he has become well known throvghout this locality, and the fact that his circle of friends is almost co-extensive with the circle of his acquaintances indicate that his salient qualities are those which tend to inspire the confidence, respect and the good will of his fellowmen.

George A. Barber

The farming interests of Huron county find in George A. Barber a worthy representative and one who is meeting with success in his business enterprise. He was born in Sherman township, this county, January 30, 1856, and is a son of Samuel G. and Matilda (Maltby) Barber, the former a native of Schenectady county, New York, and the latter of Fremont, Ohio. The grandparents of our subject on the paternal side were Edward and Desire (Kenyon) Barber. while his maternal grandfather was David Maltby. Both the Barber and Maltby families are of Scotch lineage, while the Barbers rank among the old pioneer settlers of Huron county. 'The family was founded in this portion of the state by Samuel G. Barber, the father of our subject, who came here when but seven years of age, and grew up with the county, being a witness of the work of transformation and improvement that has changed the forests of Ohio into richly cultivated fields.

Our subject has in his possession many interesting relics of the old pioneer days, one of especial interest being an Italian violin which is over two hundred years old. He also has the old gun that his grandfather brought with him from the east, and also a letter received by the Barbers in the early days, directed to this state and dated February 11, 1834. The mother of our subject, who bore the maiden name of Matilda Maltby, had three brothers who went to Texas, where they were residing at the time of the Civil war. At the outbreak of hostilities the youngest brother espoused the cause of the Confederacy and became captain in the Louisiana Light Artillery. The eldest brother was a soldier in the Mexican war and under General Scott went from Vera Cruz to the City of Mexico, participating in all of the battles of that campaign. After the war he went to Galena, Illinois, and later became a friend and associate of General Grant. During the Civil war he was a brevet brigadier general and assisted in capturing his own brother at the surrender of Vicksburg. Later he sought parole for his brother and sent him back to the south. He sustained a wound at the battle of Fort Donelson which, however, was not fatal. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Barber were the following children: Dora, George, Bayard, Jasper and Grace.

George A. Barber, of this review, spent the period of his boyhood and youth upon his father's farm, early being trained to the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. When not busy with the work in the fields he attended the district schools and thus acquired a good knowledge of the common English branches. Later he pursued a course of study during the years 1877-1880, in the Ohio Normal University at Ada, Ohio, and after leaving that institution he was engaged in teaching for about eighteen years. During that period his identification with educational interests was a source of benefit to the communities in which he labored for he proved himself a most competent and able instructor, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. Subsequently, however, he withdrew from that profession and became identified with agricultural interests, purchasing a farm in Fairfield township. He has resided upon this farm for about fourteen years, and it is now one of the well improved and valuable properties in the township. He has brought the fields under a high state of cultivation, has introduced upon the place all the accessories and equipment necessary to facilitate farm labor, and his well directed industry and energy, which are the salient elements in his career, are winning for him a gratifying measure of prosperity.

It was on the 7th of April, 1885, that Mr. Barber was united in marriage to Miss Maud Pratt, who was born in October, 1864, and is a daughter of Edwin D. and Elizabeth (Slyer) Pratt, natives of Huron county, Ohio, and East Liverpool, Medina county, this state, respectively. Her father, who was a son of

Nelson and Finette (Delano) Pratt, traces his ancestry back to the Mayflower. The Pratts were originally members of the Baptist church, but members of the family later joined the Mormon church and became stanch supporters of that creed. Hugh F. Barber, who was born on the 18th of May, 1891, is the only child born unto Mr. and Mrs. George Barber. The parents are both members of the Universalist church, while fraternally Mr. Barber is connected with the Masons at North Fairfield, Ohio. He is public-spirited in his citizenship, doing all in his power to promote the general welfare, while his influence and activity are always upon the side of progress, reform, improvement and advancement. These qualities constitute him a citizen of worth in the community where he has resided throughout his lifetime and where he has acquired an extensive circle of warm friends.

Charles W. Hopkins

Charles W. Hopkins, one of the pioneer residents of Huron county, where he has resided for more than sixty years, is one of the successful and influential agriculturists of the district in which he lives, his farm of eighty acres, situated in Ripley township, being one of the finest and best improved properties of the county. He was born in New Jersey on the 14th of March, 1838, and on the paternal side traces his ancestry back to a Mr. Hopkins who came to America in the Mayflower, founding the family in Massachusetts. His parents were John and Levica (Mott) Hopkins, the former a native of Massachusetts, where his birth occurred in 1807, while the latter was born in New Jersey in 1815. The father was the eldest in a family of eight children born unto Joshua Hopkins, the others being Orpha, Willard, Juliana, Sarah Hane, Amanda, Joshua and Samuel. The mother was a daughter of Henry Mott and the eldest of six children, the others being as follows, Allen, Job, Henry, Elizabeth and Marietta. John Hopkins, who came to Ohio at an early date, was among the pioneer setders of Huron county and for many years his efforts were potent factors in the work of improvement and development which was carried on within its borders. He passed away in 1904 at the very remarkable age of ninety-seven years. His family consisted of the following: Charles W., Elizabeth, James Henry, John Norris and Levica, while another child, whose name was also James Henry, was burned to death in infancy.

Charles W. Hopkins was a little lad of five years when he came with his parents to Ohio, and here on his father's farm he was reared to manhood, spending the period of his boyhood and youth in much the usual manner of farm lads of that time. He shared with the other members of the household the privations and experiences of life in a frontier district and was early trained to habits of industry and economy. He has devoted his entire life to farming and kindred pursuits, and throughout his business career his efforts have been actuated by a spirit of industry, perseverance and close application that has won its just reward in a substantial and gratifying success which is today his. He owns eighty acres of excellent land which constitutes one of the finest farming properties in Huron county, and everything about his place indicates that he is in touch with the modern spirit of progress which is manifest in agricultural lines. In connection with his farming he engages to some extent in stock-raising, making a specialty of breeding horses, and both branches of his business - the raising of grain and the raising of stock - are proving profitable sources of revenue to him.

It was on the 28th of September, 1862, that Mr. Hopkins was united in marriage to Miss Ann Mitchell, a native of Michigan, born March 1842. She was a daughter of Moses M. and Hulda (Hale) Mitchell and a sister of Matilda, Lorana, Ada and James Mitchell The home of Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins was blessed with nine children, namely: Ada, Rosella, Jennie, Artie, Maud, Lizzie, James, Fred and Roy. After the death of his first wife Mr. Hopkins was again married, his second union being with Miss Emma Reeves Lincoln, a daughter of James Lincoln, and unto them were born four sons: Frank, Carl, Lincoln and Leland. The parents are members of the Congregational church, of which Mr. Hopkins is a deacon, and they are greatly interested in the various phases of church work.

In politics Mr. Hopkins gives his allegiance to the republican party and on that ticket served as postmaster at Carson, Ohio, for fourteen years. He can well remember the time when dense forests covered much of the district and wild animals were seen in abundance. During the intervening years he has watched the steady growth and advancement of the community, has seen much of the land cleared and converted into productive fields and has witnessed the log cabin giving place to the modern and substantial residence, while in this work of improvement he has taken a willing part, at all times rejoicing in the progress which has been made and doing all in his power to advance the best interests of the community. Although he has now passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, he nevertheless remains an active factor in life's work and is recognized as one of the substantial, influential and valuable citizens of Huron county.

Edwin F. Childs

Edwin F. Childs, a successful and enterprising farmer and stockman of Ripley township, owning and operating seventy-one acres of fine land, was born on the 1st of October, 1862, in Greenfield township, Huron county, his parents being George L. and Ann (Miller) Childs. The father, who was a native of Massachusetts, was born in Worcester in 1826, a son of Charles Childs, and was the second eldest in a family of four sons, his brothers being Otis, Frank and Thomas. The mother, who was a daughter of William Miller, was born in Pennsylvania in 1829 and was a sister of Jacob and Charlotte Miller. George T. Childs and his wife became the parents of seven children: Edwin F., Henry, William C., Bert, Julia, Anna and Lizzie.

Under the parental roof Edwin F. Childs was reared to manhood and at the usualage was sent as a pupil to the district schools, wherein he gained a good knowledge of the English language. During the periods of vacation he assisted the work of the home farm, early becoming familiar with the duties that fall to the lot of the agriculturalist, and he remained at home, giving his father the benefit of his aid, until he attained his majority, when he started out in the business world for himself. Wisely choosing the occupation to which he had been reared as a life work, he has since directed his energies toward agricultural and kindred pursuits, and is today one of the substantial and progressive farmers of his section of the county. He and his brother William own a tract of land in Ripley township consisting of seventy-one acres of fine farming land, which constitutes one of the desirable and valuable properties of the township, and altogether they own nearly twelve hundred acres. connection with farming interests they give considerable attention to general stock-dealing and in both branches of their business are meeting with signal success, enjoying a substantial income therefrom.

Mr. Childs has been twice married. the 24th of March, 1886, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Miller, who was born on the 16th of December, 1863, and was the eldest daughter of William and Charlotte (Atyeo) Miller, in whose family were three children, the others being Oliver and Jennie. Unto this union was born one child, Charlotte, her birth occurring on the 29th of November, 1899. After the death of his first wife Mr. Childs wedded Miss Mary Meacham, the ceremony being celebrated on the 31st of May, 1908. Mrs. Childs was born July 3, 1875, in Townsend township, and is a daughter of Lafayette Meacham.

The religious views of Mr. Childs are indicated in his membership in the Christian church, of which he is serving as trustee, while in politics he gives stanch allegiance to the republican party, although he does not seek nor desire public office, desiring to concentrate his time and attention upon the duties of his business affairs, which, capably conducted, are proving a source of most gratifying success. Mr. Childs has spent his entire life within the borders of Huron county, where he has made many warm friends, who entertain for him high regard and esteem because of his many sterling traits of character.

Joseph I. Hinkley, who passed away on the 29th of May, 1908, was for many years actively and successfully identified with the building interests of Huron county as a carpenter and contractor. His birth occurred in Tompkins county, New York, on the 18th of November, 1828, and when four years of age he was brought by his parents to Huron county, Ohio, the family home being established in Ripley township, where he resided for a number of years. He obtained his education in the district schools and when he had attained his majority started out in life on his own account, working by the month as a carpenter and joiner. He conducted a most extensive business as a builder of houses and also erected several churches, many important contracts being awarded him in recognition of his excellent executive ability and reliable methods. His capable management and keen discrimination were valuable factors in the success which attended his undertakings and he was one of the county's most highly respected citizens, being honored by all who knew him because of his unfaltering integrity and honorable, upright principles. On leaving Ripley township he made his home in Fitchville for a time and in 1864 bought a farm of sixty-four acres, to which he subsequently added by additional purchases until it embraced three hundred acres of rich and productive land. He was well known and highly esteemed throughout Huron county as one of its most prominent and worthy residents and his loss was deeply felt when he was called to his final rest in May, 1908.

In 1856 Mr. Hinkley was united in marriage to Miss Emeline Tanner, who was born in Norwich township, Huron county, Ohio, on the roth of July, 1838. Her father, Elisha D. Tanner, who was a native of Herkimer county, New York, passed away on the 13th of January, 1886. Mr. and Mrs. Hinkley became the parents of eleven children. Luzerne H. and Laverne H., twins, were born on the 18th of October, 1857. The former is now a practicing physician of Greenspring, Ohio, but the latter, who gave her hand in marriage to Zuriel Curtis, died on the 4th of May, 1887. The record of the other children is as follows: Horace C., who was born April 17, 1859, and passed away December 22, 1887; Elisha D., born July 15, 1860, who is practicing dentistry at Denver, Colorado; Burdette C., born February 2, 1862, who is likewise a dentist by profession and is dean of the college at Keokuk, Iowa ; Laura E., whose virth occurred on the 28th of April, 1863; Benjamin H., born November 29, 1867, who was called to his final rest on the 16th of May, 1908; Junia J., who was born on the 15th of August, 1871 ; Lillian L., born August 10, 1872, who passed away March 4, 1875; Mrs. Adeline A. Boardman, whose birth occurred June 16, 1876; and French F., born April 2, 1879, who died the 27th of September, 1881.

Mr. Hinkley fully realized the value of good mental training as a preparation for life's practical and responsible duties and all of his children enjoyed excellent educational advantages. The period of his residence in this county covered more than three-fourths of a century and that his ife in its varied relations was at all times worthy of emulation and commendation is indicated by the fact that he was best loved where test known. He was a most devoted and loving husband. and father and a consistent and faithful member of the Methodist church. Kind hearted and liberal, the poor and needy found in him a friend whose sympathy

Daniel White

Daniel White, a successful farmer and apiarist of New London township, and one of the township's prominent and influential citizens, was born June 3, 1841, in Yates county, New York, a son of Daniel and Sarah (Sutfin) White. The paternal grandfather's name was also Daniel, and this cognomen has been borne by a son of the family for as many generations of which there is any record. This branch of the White family came to Ohio in 1846, locating in Huron, Subsequently they made the journey from there to New London by wagon, and here took up their residence, this being their home ever since. At the time of their advent the country in the neighborhood of New London was covered with dense forests, and the work of clearing had to be accomplished before any farming could be attempted. In this work both our subject and his sister Sarah, Mr. White's only children, assisted, and both are living to tell of the many hardships encountered and overcome. Mr. White's first wife died in 1863, and on the 6th of September of the following year he married Mrs. Sarah S. Gilbert, the widow of Titus Gilbert and the daughter of Joel and Polly (Benham) Parker. The Parkers came from Connecticut to Ohio at a very early day and were very active in promoting the development of this new land. Mr. White died January 18, 1877, a man highly respected by all who knew him, for he was industrious and frugal and of high character. His daughter, Sarah, married Llewellyn Gilbert, and is now a widow residing in Galion, Ohio.

Daniel White of this review, grew up at home, assisting in the work of clearing the soil and then in cultivating it. When the call for troops came at the beginning of the Civil war, he enlisted, August 1, 1861, in Battery B, First Ohio Light Artillery, for a period of three years, which was then thought to cover the whole length of the war. On January 4, 1864, he was mustered out at Nashville, Tennessee, and then, without leaving the line, was mustered in again, so that there was no break in the period of his service to his country until the close ofthe war. Although he was offered several promotions he preferred to remain a private, taking a certain pride in fighting valiantly in the ranks. His battery was attached to the Armies of the Tennessee and the Cumberland and participated in the hard fighting that fell to the share of those armies. The battery's first encounter was at Wild Cat Run, called a battle then, but in the light of subsequent events amounting to little more than a skirmish. Later it took part in the engagements at Stone River, Pellville, Kentucky, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Lookout Mountain and the subsequent encounters of the army. Although under fire so many times, Mr. White escaped without a wound and without seeing the inside of a prison, a hospital or a guardhouse. On the 22d of July, 1865, he was mustered out of the service at Cleveland, Ohio, and returned to the life of a private citizen. He came to New London, which has since been his home, and for the first five years was employed as a stationary engineer. In 1871, after his marriage, he took up farming, settling upon thirty acres of land belonging to his father-in-law. After a few years he engaged in bee culture, and for the past thirty-five years has been known in the county as one of the most successful men in this line of work. He went about it in a most thorough manner, studying the habits of the bees, their manner of work, the question of their food, just as a farmer makes a study of his soil and the rotation of crops so that he can obtain the best results from the land at his command. Mr. White is able as a result of this scientific and intelligent culture, to get from his bees a generous gift, and in the years that have come and gone they have produced tons of honey. About thirty years ago Mr. White undertook the cultivation of strawberries and at present his crop averages probably one thousand bushels. He makes a specialty of late varieties and in consequence his berries command the highest prices in the markets after the regular supply has been exhausted.

On the 3d of March, 1871, Mr. White was married to Miss Julia E. Gilbert, a daughter of Titus and Sarah (Parker) Gilbert. The Gilberts came to Ohio in 1852, from Oneida county, New York, and settled in New London township, Huron county, on the farm on which Mr. and Mrs. White now live. Mr. Gilbert was a miller by trade and on coming here intended starting a mill but lived only a year and a half after his arrival, leaving a widow and eight children. Of these Mrs. White is the youngest; Caroline, Llewellyn and Sarah have died; and Martha, Frank, Andrus and Byron are living. The sons followed in their father's footsteps, became millers and attained success and prosperity in their line of work. Mrs. Gilbert died January 25, 1881, a woman well beloved by all who knew her. To Mr. and Mrs. White there have been born four children: Bertha, the wife of Blake Andrews; Daisy, who married Clyde E. Ward, of New London; Daniel F., a resident of Detroit, Michigan, and Gilbert, of New London, Ohio.

In politics Mr. White is a republican and takes an active part in all party matters, frequently having served on the county republican committee, and almost regularly a delegate to county, district and state conventions. In the public affairs of the township he has also taken part, having served as town assessor for seven years, and now trustee of New London township, a position he has held for many years. During the years his children were in school he served as a member of the school board. He belongs to Carnation Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and is one of its charter members. In Runyon Post, No. 47, C. A. K., he has been active and has frequently been its delegate to state and national encampments. A high degree of public spirit has ever distinguished his actions. He is a hard worker, progressive in his ideas and enjoys the satisfaction of seeing his family well settled in life. At his home, ever filled with good cheer, he dispenses a genial hospitality that is. generally appreciated in the community.

Daniel Mahl

The agricultural pursuits of Sherman township find a worthy representative in Daniel Mahl, who owns and operates a farm of one hundred and eight acres. A native son of Huron county, he was born on the 21st of March, 1862, a son of John D. and Catherine (Shook) Mahl, natives of Germany who early came to America and were married in this country. The father was a soldier in the German army, but after coming to the United States he took up the occupation of farming at first working for others by the month, but later on his own account. He purchased a tract of land which now comprises a part of the farm owned by the subject of this review. He and his wife became the parents of the following children: John; Jacob; Adam; Daniel; Catherine, the wife of Joseph Miller; Frank; Michael; Henry; Louisa; and Mary, deceased.

Daniel Mahl spent the days of his boyhood and youth on his father's farm, his time being divided between acquiring an education in the district schools and assisting in the work of the fields. At the age of sixteen, however, he laid aside his text-books and took up the occupation to which he was reared, and has since been continuously engaged in agricultural pursuits in Sherman township. He can remember when Huron county was mostly covered by timber and the trees had to be cut down and the native growth removed before the work of improvement could be commenced. And then, after the land had been cleared, the work of cultivation was not easy, for he has seen the time when, during planting season, the soil was so scarce that he was obliged to carry dirt in his hat with which to cover the kernels of corn being planted. Undaunted, however, by any obstacles that blocked his path, Mr. Mahl persevered during the intervening years, until today as the result of untiring industry and indefatigable energy and perseverance he has a finely improved property, the fields annually ylelding rich harvests.

On the 2d of July, 1896, Mr. Mahl was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Didion, a daughter of John J. and Rosella Didion, mention of whom is made on another page of this volume. This union was blessed with eight children, namely: Herman, born June 16, 1897; Ralph, born September 26, 1898; Carl, born March 4, 1900; Arnold, born October 24, Mary, born April 13, 1904; Irene, born March 12, 1906; Emma, born May 23, 1908; and Linus August, October 7, 1909. The family are members of the Catholic church, while politically Mr. Mahl is affiliated with the democratic party. He has never sought nor desired public office as the reward for party fealty, desiring rather to direct his entire energies and attention to his personal interests, which, capably managed, are proving a source of gratifying income to him. Having passed his entire life in Huron county he has gained an extensive circle of friends, and the fact that he is most liked where best known is an indication that his salient characteristics are such as to inspire the confidence and respect of his fellow men.

Adelbert Eugene Hanville

Adelbert Eugene Hanville, who has been engaged in the operation of a sawmill in Huron county for almost forty years, is also a dealer in hardwood lumber and is recognized as one of the successful and progressive business men of the locality where he resides. A native of Corning, New York, he was born on the 17th of April, i851, and is a son of C. W. and Mary Ann (Fowler) Hanville. The former, was born in Geneva, Cayuga county, New York, in 1826, while the latter was a native of Pennsylvania, born in the I831. After their marriage the parents resided for a time in Ulysses, Potter county, Pennsylvania, and later came to Ohio, where the father became identified with the lumber and sawmilling business at Ripley, Huron county. Subsequently he purchased a sawmill north of North Fairfield, which is now owned and operated by the subject of this review. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Hanville were the following children: Adelbert Eugene, George W., Charles P., Delphene, Eva and Ella.

Adelbert Eugene Hanville, whose name introduces this record, spent the period of his boyhood and early youth in the east, attending the common schools in the acquirement of his education. He was fifteen years of age when, in 1866, he accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio, and here he has since continued to make his home. He remained at home assisting his parents until 1870, when he purchased the mill from his father and has since continued to operate it.

The mill, which has been in existence for nearly seventy years, was burned down in 1899 but was rebuilt in the same year, and has been in continuous operation since. Mr. Hanville owns about twenty-two acres of land upon which the mill is situated. He has been very successful in his various enterprises inasmuch as they are proving a source of gratifying remuneration to him. He possesses good business ability and his close application and good management are the salient characteristics in the creditable measure of success which he now enjoys.

On the 15% of September, 1872, Mr. was united in marriage to Miss Ida E. Taylor, a daughter of Alexander and Eliza Ann (McCord) Taylor, of North Fairfield, Ohio. She was called to her final rest, however, the 12th of October, 1875, and on the 31st of March, 1876, Mr. Hanville was again married, his second union being with Miss Mary Ardella Ayers, a daughter of James and Eliza Ann Lamm Ayers, the former a native of Rome, Ashtabula county, Ohio, while the latter was born in Montgomery county, Alabama. Mr. and Mrs. Ayers, who were southern people, came to the north during the Civil war as refugees, and in their family were six children, namely: Ella, John, Mary, Ada, Charles and Minnie. The second union of Mr. Hanville has been blessed with the following children: Earl, born on the 5th of February, 1880; Harry, born June 3, 1882; Iva, whose birth occurred on the 21st of September, 1884; Nellie, born September 5, 1887: Hattie, born on the 21st of November, 1889; and Geneva, on the 11th of July, 1893. All yet survive with the exception of Iva, who passed away on the 16th of August, 1907.

In politics Mr. Hanville is independent. He has been a member of the Fairfield township school board, the cause of education finding in him a stanch champion. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons at Fairfield and also holds membership with the Redmen. He is highly respected in the community in which he has resided for so many years, for he has ever led an upright, honest and honorable life, while in business affairs he has depended upon no fortunate combination of circumstances to aid him in his career, but has worked for the success which is now his, knowing that fortune favors those who labor persistently and guide their efforts by sound judgment.

Alfred A. Gates

No history of Huron county would be complete without mention of Alfred A. Gates, who was born in this county more than seventy years ago and has therefore been a witness to the changes which have been carried on within its horders during the last half century. He is, moreover, entitled to special mention this volume from the fact that at the time of the Civil war, when the country was plunged into the darkest hour of her history, he was among the first to spond to her cry for aid, and throughout the four years of hostility served with a courage and loyalty that won for him a most creditable military record. Born on the 7th of May, 1836, in Huron county, he is a son of Abigail (Ames) Gates, the former born February 4, 1789, while the latter s birth òccurred in New York on ihe 22d of September, 1784. In their family were the fol-

Alfred A. Gates, whose name introduces this review, acquired his education in the district schools near his father's home and was reared on the old homestead farm, assisting his father in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting, so that when he started out to farm on his own account he was well. equipped with a thorough knowledge of the best methods of agriculture. He has devoted his entire life to farming and as the years have gone by has prospered in his undertakings, being now the owner of one hundred and eighty acres of valuable land. This is all under a high state of cultivation and returns excellent crops each year as a reward for the care and labor bestowed upon the fields. He has made a close study of the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, is methodical. systematic and progressive in his business, and is numbered among the substantial and successful farmers of his section of the county. Moreover his dealings with his fellowmen have ever been straightforward and honorable, so that his success is well merited.

The only interruption that came in his life of intense activity was at the time of the Civil war, when, in response to the call for troops, on the 1st of July, 1861, he enlisted as a member of Company E, Fourth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and fought valiantly and bravely in defense of his country. He saw much active service and was compelled to endure many dangers and hardships, for throughout the four years of his enlistment he was almost continuously at the front. Not once, however, did he waver in his allegiance to his country and at all times, whether on the lonely picket line or in the midst of battle, he remained loyal to the old flag and the cause which it represented. He participated in the following battles: Sugar Creek; Pea Ridge; Chickasaw Mountain; Arkansas Post: Black Bayou; Jackson; Champion Hills; Siege of Vicksburg; Clinton; Brandon; Lookout Mountain; Missionary Ridge; Ringgold; Resaca; New Hope Church; Kenesaw Mountain; Peach Tree Creek; Atlanta; and Bentonville. On the 25th of July, 1865, he was honorably discharged and with a creditable military record he returned home, again taking up his agricultural pursuits.

On the 8th of November, 1865, Mr. Gates was united in marriage to Miss Frances Paine, born July 1, 1840, a daughter of Ira and Lydia (Knowlton) Paine. Unto them were born three children: Gusta, Gross and Frank. After the death of his first wife Mr. Gates was again married, his second union being with Miss Beile Stewart, the wedding occurring on the 4th of June, 1873. Mrs. Gates was born April 25, 1851, and was a daughter of David C. and Mary (LaForce) Stewart, the former born in Ohio on January 1825, while the latter's birth occurred on the 3oth of January, 1832. She had one sister, Mary. Her grandfather on the paternal side was Galbraith Stewart, who was a prominent and well known judge of Ottawa county during its pioneer days. Mr. Gates is a member of the Congregational church, while his wife belongs to the Friends Society, of which she was pastor for over twenty years. They are people of the highest worth, whose excellent traits of character have gained them the esteem and regard of their many friends throughout the community. Mr. Gates gives loyal support to the republican party and for six years has been treasurer of the township. He is preeminently a public-spirited man and in all matters of citizenship has remained as loyal to his country in times of peace as when fighting on southern battlefields.

Joel E. Snyder, a prosperous farmer of New London township, Huron county, was born in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, March 16, 1850, and is a son of Andrew and Harriet (Fister) Snyder. He is of remotely Dutch descent and for several centuries members of the Snyder family have taken part in making the history of this land. In 1700 six brothers of the name came to America from Holland, three of whom settled in New York and three in Pennsylvania, one of the latter being Nicholas Snyder, the great-great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch. Several of the brothers participated in the American Revolution, some of their descendants served in the war of 1812, and those of the family who are living today play a not inconspicuous part in the affairs of their respective localities. Jacob Snyder, the grandfather of Joel E. Snyder, was a resident of Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, a prosperous farmer and a large landowner. He had a family of thirteen children, ten sons and three daughters, all of whom lived to the age of seventy-six and several nearly reached the hundredth milestone, although Henry, who still lives in Northumberland county at the age of eighty-three, is the only survivor at present.

Andrew Snyder, the father of Joel E. Snyder, was the third from the youngest in the family of thirteen. He was a farmer and a county bridge constructor, and several of the substantial bridges and viaducts of Northumberland county were built by him or under his supervision. In April, 1866, he came to Ohio, settling in New London township, Huron county, where he pursued his farming with great success. He had a family of nineteen children by his first wife and three by a second; only eight of the nineteen, however, are alive today. They are Louisa, now Mrs. John Tonkinson, of Waverly, Nebraska ; Emma, the wife of Samuel Kauffman, of Pratt, Kansas; Joel E.; Nathan and Adam, of New London township; Charles H., of Pratt, Kansas; Mary Jane, now Mrs. Edward Osborn, of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and Sarah Ann, the wife of Cleabert Lilly, of Pratt, Kansas. All the children have prospered in the business they have undertaken. Mr. Snyder's first wife died September, 1877, and when he himself died, January 17, 1908, he was buried by her side in the cemetery at East Ruggles. A good man and a strong man of high principles, the citizens of the county mourned his loss.

Joel E. Snyder grew up at home on his father's farm and received his education in the district schools of the county of his birth, and, after the family moved to Ohio, in the schools of New London township. In 1876 he entered upon his business career as a traveling salesman for harvesting machinery and other farm implements, his territory being the northern counties of Ohio. Three years later he engaged in farming, first, for a year upon his father's land. In the spring of 1881 he removed to New London, where he worked at the trade of cabinetmaker, which he had learned in his youth, and for twelve years made a reputation for himself as a clever carpenter and skilful mechanic. In 1893 he again engaged in farming in New London township, and two years later purchased the farm which has since been his home. Here he carries on diversified agriculture, though he makes a specialty of potatoes and has given considerable attention to stock raising. The buildings on the land, including his own residence, are all modern and excellently constructed from his own designs and largely by his unassisted efforts. Mr. Snyder calls his place "Sand Creek," from the little creek that runs through his grounds and the quantities of sand of superior grade found there. He hauls hundreds of loads of this every year and from it derives a considerable revenue.

On the 2d of November, 1879, Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Carrie May Jewell, a daughter of James and Mary Jane (Ensign) Jewell. The parents are of English birth and are residents of Lorain county, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have been born two sons: Alton Carroll and Kenneth K. The elder married Miss Tessa Tynder and they have two children, Lillian and Eldred Martin. They live in New London. Kenneth R. lives at home and manages the farm, a responsibility for which he gave up his profession of teaching.

Mr. Snyder has always taken an active interest in public matters and is well informed on all questions before the people. His political sympathies are with the republican party, on whose ticket in New London township he has been elected to the office of real estate appraiser for 1010, a testimony of the high regard which he is held by the substantial men of this locality. He belongs to no societies but his son Alton Carroll is a member of the New London Lodge, I. O. O. F., and Kenneth R. belongs to the Masonic lodge of the township. Both are fine young men. Mr. Snyder, with his wife, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and has been for many years a class leader in the congregation and otherwise active in church and Sunday school work. He is, indeed, a fine citizen, public spirited, contributing to the progress and advancement of the community in which he lives.

Augustuste Copi

Augustus L. Coit, owning and operating an excellent farm of one hundred and twelve acres located in Fairfield township, Huron county, was born August 26, 1848, in New York city, a son of James L. and Elizabeth (Rodgers) Coit. The father was born in Connecticut on the 29th of July, 1815, while the mother, who was also born in the east, passed away when the subject of this sketch was very young. She was the mother of five children, namely: Eureka, William H., Augustus L., Eudora, and Mandora. The father was the second eldest in a family of four children born unto Elias L. and Phoebe (Brown) Coit, the others being Augustus T., Andrew Jackson and William E., two of whom were sailors.

Augustus L. Coit accompanied his parents to Ohio when very small and therefore almost his entire life has been passed within the borders of this state. He acquired his education in the district schools and remained at home, giving his father the benefit of his assistance, until he reached manhood. When he entered business upon his own account he was first identified with the stone interests in Greenfield, operating a quarry at that place for nearly twenty years, and during this period he gained a creditable degree of success, his industry, enterprise and perseverance being salient elements in his prosperity. He later became connected with agricultural pursuits, purchasing the farm upon which he now resides, which has been in his possession for about six years. It consists of one hundred and twelve acres located in Fairfield township and is one of the desirable properties of the locality. He carries on general farming, practices rotation of crops, and makes a close study of the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting, and his efforts are proving most successful, returning to him a gratifying annual income.

The year 1877 witnessed the marriage of Mr. Coit and Miss Anna T. Graham, who 15 the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Meyers) Graham, and one of four children born unto that couple, the other members of the family being Henry, George and Elizabeth. Four children have come to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Coit, namely: Lena M., born in 188r; Morris E., born in 1883; Alma B., whose birth occurred in 1886; and Elizabeth R., born in 1893. all of whom are still under the parental roof.

In his political allegiance Mr. Coit is a stalwart republican, doing all in his power to further the influence of that party in the community, although he does not seek public preferment as a reward for party fealty. He is at present serving as a member of the board of education, and does all in his power to promote and uphold a high standard of education throughout the township. Public-spirited to a large degree, Mr. Coit's influence is always upon the side of progress, reform, improvement and advancement, and these qualities constitute him a citizen of worth in the community in which he resides.

Frank G. Fenton

An excellent farming property of ninety-seven acres in Ripley township, Huron county, pays tribute to the care and iabor of Frank C. Fenton. A native of New York, he was born on the 13th of March, 1867, a son of George and Emma (Loomis) Fenton, both natives of the Empire state, who were also the parents of the following: Charles, Arthello and Aouda. The father was a son of Stephen and Philena (Cutler) Fenton, whose family consisted of Charles, Joel, Gilbert, George, Miles and Betsy.

Frank G. Fenton acquired his education in the district schools of his native state, where he was reared to manhood, and in 1892 he came to Ohio. He was thoroughly trained to the various duties of the home farm and has been identified with farming throughout the greater part of his active business career. For a few years, however, he was engaged in a but eventually resumed farming pursuits and now is the owner of ninety-seven acres of fine land upon which he has resided since his arrival in this state. He has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation, and the soil, which is naturally rich and productive, responds readily to the care and attention bestowed upon it, yielding annually rich golden harvests. Possessing excellent business ability, Mr. Fenton has so wisely and carefully conducted his farming interests that he has won substantial success and is ranked among the progressive and representative agriculturists of his section of the county.

Mr. Fenton was united in marriage on November 2, 1892, to Miss Bertha Thomas, a native of Ripley township, born on the 16th of February, 1861. She is a daughter of Sylvanus W. and Sarah Ann (Marcy) Thomas, the other members of whose family were Ida, George, Carrie and Charles Thomas. The father, who was born January 20, 1824, in New York, is a son of George and Adeline (Baker) Thomas, and a brother of Levi, George, Uriah, Fayette, Andrew, Alvira, Isabender and Walter Thomas. He followed the occupation of farming and was considered one of the best sheep breeders in the state of Ohio. He was also very well known in local political affairs and served as township treasurer for several years. His wife, who was the daughter of Abram and Sarah (Fisher) Marcy, was born in Connecticut on the 9th of November, 1822, and by her marriage to Mr. Thomas became the mother of three daughters: Maria, Sarah and Esther. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fenton has been born one child, Florence, whose birth occurred June 17, 1895.

They are members of the Congregational church, in which Mr. Fenton is serving as deacon and also as superintendent of the Sunday school. and are people of excellent traits of character, occupying a high place in the regard of their friends and neighbors. He is stalwart in his support of republican principles which, in his opinion, are most conducive to good government, but he has never desired nor sought office for himself. He has, however, served a number of times as a member of the township school board, the cause of education finding in him a warm champion. He is public-spirited in his citizenship, at all times lending his influence to those measures which have for their object the material, political, intellectual and moral welfare of the community. His salient characteristics have ever been in accord with the principles of honorable and upright manhood, and he ranks foremost among the valued citizens of the community.

Frank T. Guess

Among those who can justly claim the proud title of self-made man is Frank T. Guess, successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits in Fairfield township, Huron county. A native of England, he was born in Boughton, Chelsea, County of Kent, on the 16th of May, 1865, a son of John and Mary Ann (Manser) Guess, both natives of England, the former born in 1826 and the latter in 1836. They were farming people in their native country, where they were married, and continued to engage in that occupation after their arrival in the United States. In their family were four sons and two daugbters, as follows: George, John Henry, Frank Thomas, Frederick Alfred, Elizabeth Alice and Clara Isabel.

In 1884, when a young man of nineteen years, Frank T. Guess left England, and came with his parents to the United States. settlement being made in Ohio.

He had acquired his education in the schools of his native country and after arriving in this state remained upon his father's farm, assisting in the work of the fields, until he had attained his majority, when he entered business on his own account as a farmer and has been connected with agricultural pursuits continuously since. He now resides upon a farm of fifty acres, which he has now owned for six years, and to the improvement of which he directs his entire time and attention. He has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation, has carried on his farming along progressive and up-to-date methods, and through his industry, enterprise and perseverance is meeting with gratifying success. Outside of his agricultural interests he is a stockholder in the Boughtonville Telephone Company, of which company he was one of the organizers.

In 1891 Mr. Guess returned to England, where he was united in marriage to Miss Keturah Clinch, who was born in South Green, Stockbury, in Kent. She is a daughter of John and Keturah Clinch also natives of England. Both Mr. and Mrs. Guess are members of the Methodist church, while politically Mr. Guess gives his allegiance to the republican partv. He has crossed the Atlantic six times and the North Sea twice while he has traveled considerably throughout the west, and he relates many interesting incidents in connection with his various trips. He is truly a self-made man, for although he started out in life without any special advantages at the outset, by earnest, persistent and unfaltering effort he has made progress in the business world and is now ranked among the progressive and enterprising farmers of Fairfield county.

Henry Linder

Henry Linder, who has followed agricultural pursuits all his life, and is now operating a farm of eighty acres in Sherman township, is a native son of Huron county, born November 20, 1852. He is a son of Lawrence and Catherine (Hurtz) Linder, botli now deceased. The parents were born in Germany and came to America at an early date with their respective parents. The father followed the occupation 5f farming throughout his residence in this country. Of their family Henry Linder was the eldest, the remaining members being: Conrad; John; Elizabeth, the wife of George Krause; Catherine, who married Philip Conradi; Barbara, deceased; George; Lawrence; and Lena, the wife of Charles P. Eichenlaub.

The district schools of Peru township afforded Henry Linder his educational advantages, and he remained a student therein until seventeen years of age, when he put aside his text-books and began earning his own livelihood as a farm hand, working by the month. He was thus engaged for six years and then he purchased the farm upon which he now resides. He directs his energies toward general husbandry and the attention which he has given to his farm has made it one of the neat and well improved properties of the township. He practices rotation of crops, has made a thorough study of the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and the best methods of cultivating each, is a progressive and practical farmer who is winning a creditable degree of success.

In 1884 he married Miss Minnie Linder, a daughter of George and Elizabeth (Swan) Linder, who were prominent farmers and early settlers of Huron county, Ohio. Although the name is the same, the families are not related in any way. Mrs. Henry Linder is the youngest in a family of five children, the other members being George, Lena, Catherine and Lawrence. By her marriage she has become the mother of three children, namely: Elizabeth, born in August, 1885; Louis, whose birth occurred in October, 1888; and Karl, born in January, 1892. The two eldest attended the district schools, and are now at home, assisting their parents with the farm work, while the ycungest, Karl, is a student at the Lutheran University of Columbus, Ohio.

Mr. and Mrs. Linder are members of the Lutheran church and are interested in the various phases of church work. Mr. Linder is a democrat in politics where national questions are at issue, but is independent where local matters are concerned, voting for the best men, regardless of their party affiliation. His life has been a busy and useful one and the qualities of honorable manhood and good citizenship have been his. He is held in high regard wherever known and has a circle of friends almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.

Isaac H. Robinson

Isaac H. Robinson is a typical farmer of the up-to-date class who utilizes modern machinery and methods to cultivate his soil and conduct the business of his farm. He owns one hundred and thirty-five acres in Norwich township and is of the third generation to own the property which was purchased by his paternal grandfather for three dollars per acre. He sold it to his son Wesley Robinson, and from him Isaac H. Robinson bought it. This farm is one of the best in the township, is well tiled and has on it a commodious brick house and good barns. The tiling was done during Wesley Robinson's life.

{saac H. Robinson was born on the farm where he now resides, February 8, 1849, being a son of Wesley and Mary (Bennett) Robinson, and grandson of William and Letitia Robinson, who passed most of their lives in Ohio, and of Isaac H. and Sally Bennett, natives of New York state. His father followed farming throughout his life, operating the place he bought from his father. He was a man of consequence in his locality, serving as justice of the peace in Norwich township for many years, and was a democrat in political faith. Isaac H. Robinson was his second son, the other children being William, who lives Grass Lake, Michigan; George, who lives in Huron county; and Daniel, who died in March, 1909.

On October 30, 1872, Isaac H. Robinson married Isadora Bramble, a daughter of John and Laura (Hossford) Bramble. Her father was born near Cincinnati, Ohio, and her mother in Huron county. They were the parents of the following children: Virginia, who is deceased; Izora, who married Nelson Wilson; and Isadora, who became Mrs. Robinson, and Rowland, who is deceased. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are: Laura, the wife of Chester Dooley, living in Peru township by whom she has one daughter Helen; and

Isaac H. Robinson was educated in the district school of Norwich township and since reaching manhood, has served very acceptably as school director and road supervisor. He is one of the prominent democrats of his locality and fraternally he belongs to the Masonic order at Attica, Ohio, and to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, at Centerton, Ohio. The family belong to the Methodist church. Having lived in Norwich township all his life, Mr. Robinson has watched its development with great interest and has never failed to respond when there was need of his help in furthering public improvements that he believed would conserve the best interests of the people.

The industry, energy and thrift of W. F. Huffman is at once manifest in the excellent appearance of his farm of one hundred and twenty acres which is located in Ripley township, Huron county, and constitutes one of the valuable farming properties of that section of the county. A native of Ripley township, he was born on the 12th of February, 1864, and he and his brother Marshall are the only children of Artemus and Agnes (Allen) Huffman, natives of New York, the former born on the 11th of March, 1837, and the latter in Ithaca on the 16th of January, 1842. The father was the son of Solomon and Sarah Huffman, both natives of the Empire state, whose family consisted of William, Artemus, Leonard, Henry, Sarah, Martha, Mary, Margaret and Christina. James and Jane (Crosby) Allen were the parents of Agnes Allen, who was a sister of James, Andrew, Leonard, William, Joseph, Henry, Thomas, Mary Ann, Jennie and Esther Allen.

No event of especial importance came to vary the routine of life for W. F. Huffman during the period of his boyhood and youth, which was passed upon the home farm, his time being divided between acquiring an education in the district schools and assisting his father in the work of the fields. Under the careful direction of the latter he early learned lessons concerning the value of industry, energy and perseverance, and these elements continued to be salient qualities in his later business career. His farm of one hundred and twenty acres is under a high state of cultivation, and in its midst are found commodious barns and outbuildings, while Mr. Huffman has introduced all of the modern accessories and conveniences for facilitating labor, the place being equipped with everything that goes to make up a model farm o: the nineteenth century.

Mr. Huffman was united in marriage on the 9th of December, 1885, to Miss Eva Barre, who was born on the of April, 1864, and is a daughter of Wellington and Deborah (Gifford) Barre. Her parents were both natives of Ripley township, the father having been born in 1837 while the mother's birth occurred on the 4th of July, 1842. In their family were the following children: Eva, Della, Henry, Lee, Wade and Vernon. In the family of her paternal grandparents were fifteen children, namely: Wellington, David, Lyman, Jonathan, Herman, Ira,

Dwight, Corvis, James, Henry, Cornelia, Jane, Jessie, Marietta and Josephine. Her maternal grandparents were Edward and Almira (Salisbury) Gifford, residents of New York, whose family consisted of Deborah, Frank, Horace and Bursha. Corvis Huffman, the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Huffman, was born on Christmas day of 1894.

Mr. Huffman and his wife hold membership in the Disciples church, their lives ever being in harmony with the teachings thereof. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Huffman has given stalwart support to the republican party and he is now acting as township trustee, having filled that office for seven years. Having resided in this county throughout his entire life he is well and favorably known here and his straightforward and honorable deaiings have won for him the warm regard and esteem of all with whom he has been associated.

Investigation into the history of Ohio indicates that the Perrys came to the state during pioneer times and were active in clearing away the wilderness and utilizing the rich soil for farming purposes. The great-grandparents of him whose name introduces this review were Joseph and Sarah (Seward) Perrv, the latter a relative of Secretary Seward of President Lincoln's cabinet. Among their children was Daniel Perry, who on arriving at years of maturity wedded Elizabeth Dow Tillson, a daughter of Thomas and Azubah (Noyes) Tillson. Unto Daniel and Elizabeth (Dow) Perry were born seven children: Edwin Louis, Charles Higgins, Dorcas Azubah, Seward Anna Lucinda, Elizabeth and Willie Daniel.

Edwin Louis Perry, the father of Thayer K. Perry, was born in Peru township, Huron county, Oho, November 13, 1841, and was reared in the usual manner of farm lads of the period, his education being acquired in the public schools. the Baldwin University at Berea, Ohio, and Western Reserve Normal School, of Milan, Ohio, while under the direction of his father he received his training in the work of the fields. In the year 1866 he was united in marriage to Miss Emily Tamar Ruggles, who was born July 20, 1843, in Ridgefield township, this county. The Ruggles family is also numbered among those that formulated the pioneer development of this part of the state. Her paternal grandparents were Eden and Artemisia (Jackson) Ruggles, of Connecticut, and the family is an old one of New England. Their son, Martin Luther Ruggles, the father of Mrs. Emily Perry, was born in Connecticut, November 13, 1803. He spent the days of his boyhood and youth in his native state and about 1824, when twenty-one years of age, sought a home in what was then the far west. In the primitive manner of the times he journeyed to Huron county, Ohio, and took up his abode in Ridgefield township, amid the wild scenes and environments of frontier life. Here he followed his vocation as a skilled mechanic. He was married to Miss Fidelia Webb, who was born in New York, September 25, 1808, and their chil-

Of this family Emily became the wife of Edwin L. Perry in 1866, and they have since traveled life's journey happily together. Mr. Perry is a man of liberal education, who supplemented his early advantages by study in Berea, Ohio, and in the Milan Normal School. He engaged in teaching for one term and with the exception of that period has devoted his entire life to general farming since attaining man's estate. He has been a busy man, actively engaged in the tilling of his fields, and the excellent appearance of his place is indicative of his careful supervision and progressive methods. In politics he is independent, voting for principle rather than for party. His wife is a lady of broad culture, who supplemented her public school privileges by further study in the Western Reserve Normal School at Milan, Ohio. It was while they were students there that Mr. and Mrs. Perry became acquainted and their friendship ripened into love and was consummated in marriage. Mrs. Perry engaged in teaching school for five years and has always been a warm advocate of the cause of education. Both Mr. and Mrs. Perry are members of the Baptist church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful part, doing all in their power to promote the growth of the church and extend its influence. Mr. Perry has served as deacon in the church and as Sunday school superintendent and teacher of the Bible class.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Perry have been born ten children: Ralph, Edith, Irene, Floyd, Daisy, Beth, Gladys, Branch, Thayer and one who died in infancy. Of this family Thayer K. Perry, whose name introduces this review, was born May 20, 1889. He has become an active assistant in the work of the home farm and is numbered among the enterprising young agriculturists of the community. In his business affairs he displays keen discrimination and sound judgment and he is proving himself a worthy representative of one of the leading families of thecounty. He is now teaching school in his second year.

George W. Hanville

The business interests of Boughtonville find a worthy representative in George W. Hanville, a well known and prominent lumber merchant who also engages in the operation of a sawmill and at the same time cultivates a farm of sixty-five acres of fine land in Ripley township. A native of Pennsylvania, his birth occurred on the 18th of October, 1852, his parents being C. W. and Mary Ann (Fowler) Hanville, natives of New York and Pennsylvania, respectively. The former, who was born in 1826, was for some time connected with the sawmill and lumber business at Lodi, Ohio, and later was the proprietor of a sawmill near North Fairfield, which is now operated by his son Adelbert Eugene. His wife was born in 1831 and by her marriage became the mother of the following children: Adelbert Eugene, George W., Charles P., Delphene, Eva and Ella. i

George W. Hanville attended the schools of his native state in the acquirement of an education, and when about fourteen years of age accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio, where he has since continued to reside. He remained under the parental roof until he attained his majority, and during the meantime, under the direction of his father, he gained a thorough and intimate knowledge of the lumber business, so that later, when entering upon an independent business career, he was fully qualified to carry on an enterprise of that nature on his own account. For the past thirty-five years he has conducted an extensive lumber business, buying and shipping hard and soft lumber, while he also operates a sawmill, in which connection he planes and matches lumber and does considerable custom work. He is likewise the owner of sixty-five acres of excellent farm land situated in Ripley township, upon which he carries on general agricultural pursuits. He is preeminently a man of affairs and is conducting his various enterprises in a systematic, progressive and business-like manner that is winning for him a high place among the leading business men of the community.

It was on the 25th of October, 1875, that Mr. Hanville was united in marriage to Miss Lucy Ann Maynard, who was born November 8, 1852, a daughter of D. Z. Maynard, of whom further mention is made in the sketch of A. D. Maynard, found on another page of this volume. Unto this union has been born four children namely: Arthur E., William D., George J. and Lena B. Mr. Hanville and his wife are members of the Disciples church, while Mr. Hanville gives his political allegiance to the republican party. He is interested in all that pertains to the welfare and progress of the community and gives loyal support to many measures for the general good. His worth as a business man is widely acknowledged, for he has made good use of his opportunities and has forged his way to the front, proving that energy and diligence constitute a safe basis upon which to build success. Honorable and straightforward in his business dealings, he may be termed a sound, substantial citizen, who keeps his promises, meets his obligations and is loyal to every trust.

Frederick Hearson

Frederick Hearson, who carries on general farming on his tract of land of ninety acres in Fairfield township, was born in Erie county, Ohio, December 17, 1852, his parents being Thomas and Sarah Ann (Temple) Hearson, both of whom were natives of England, in which country they were married. The year 1850 witnessed their emigration to the United States. In their family were the following children: John, George, Richard, Frederick, Frank, Elizann and Sarah.

Frederick Hearson has followed general agricultural pursuits as a life work and by reason of his industry, energy and capable management has won a goodly measure of success in his undertakings. He now owns a well improved and productive farm of ninety acres in Fairfield township, which he purchased in 1908, having previously disposed of his farm of one hundred and seven acres in Hartland township, Huron county. For a period of nineteen years he had been a resident of Lyme township. For the past year, however, he has been numbered among the prosperous and enterprising agriculturists of Fairfield township. Through modern methods of farming he keeps his land in good condition and everything about the place indicates his careful supervision and practical methods.

In 1877 Mr. Hearson was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Parsons, a daughter of John and Emma (Stafford) Parsons. She was one of a family of six children, her brothers and sisters being as follows: George, Thomas, Susie, Mary and Izzie. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hearson have been born three children, namely: Charles Edward, who wedded Miss Mary Walker and lives in Toledo, where he is employed as a motorman ; Edith May, the wife of Joseph Brandal, of Bellevue, Ohio; and Olive.

In his political views Mr. Hearson is a republican and keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day, as every true American citizen should do. He belongs to the Methodist church and his life is in harmony with his professions. The circle of his friends is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances and all who know him entertain for him the warmest esteem and regard.

Nelson Van Aken

Nelson Van Aken, a general farmer and stock-raiser of Ripley township, operating a fine farm of two hundred and eleven acres, was born in New York on the 22d of September, 1859, a son of Elijah and Sarah (Brooks) Van Aken. He was one of a family of seven children born unto that worthy couple, the others being Lewis, Minerva, Marinda, Walter, Marshall and Millard.

In the state of his nativity Nelson Van Aken was reared to manhood, attending the district schools in the acquirement of an education. In 1882, when a young man of twenty-three years, he came to Ohio, settling in Ripley township, where he purchased his present farm upon which he has continued to make his home throughout the twenty-seven years of his residence in this state. The period of his youth had been passed amid the scenes and environments of rural life, so that at an early age he had become familiar with the tasks that fall to the lot of the country lad, and under the direction of his father had learned lessons concerning the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting. That his early training was thorough and comprehensive is indicated in the fact that since taking up agricultural pursuits on his own account he has been very prosperous. His home farm comprises two hundred and eleven acres of finely improved land, in the midst of which stand commodious and substantial buildings, while everything about the place indicates that he 15 in touch with the modern spirit of progress which is manifest in agricultural lines. Along with his general farming he engages stock-raising, and in both branches of his business is meeting with gratifying success.

It was in the year 1883 that Mr. Van Aken was united in marriage with Miss Belle McClain, a daughter of J. K. and Angeline (Jonstein) McClain and a sister of John C., Albert, Carrie and Cora McClain. Unto this union was born one child, May. Mr. Van Aken holds membership with the Maccabees and also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while in politics he gives his support to the republican party. He neither desires nor seeks office, however, prefer- ring to devote his time and attention entirely to the conduct of his business affairs which, under his careful control, are proving a source of most gratifying prosperity. During his residence in this community he has gained a circle of warm friends which is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.

George W. Holtz

George W. Holtz, one of Richmond township's prosperous native farmers, owns fifty-two and a half acres of well improved land, on which he pursues a general line of agriculture. He was born March 6, 1851, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Musser) Holtz. The father, who was a son of Jacob Holtz, was like the latter a native of Perry county, Pennsylvania. At the age of seven he came with his parents to Ohio, settled in Richland county, which remained his home for some years after his marriage, when he removed to Richmond township, Huron county, where he had bought about fifty acres of land. At the time of the purchase the farm was virgin soil, and Mr. Holtz had to clear away the timber before he could plant his crops. They proved to be fertile fields, however, and remained his home until his death, although by that time he had added one hundred and eight acres to his real-estate holdings. Mr. Holtz was married twice. His first wife, who was Miss Elizabeth Musser in her maidenhood, died in 1863, when her son George W. was about twelve years old.. She had borne a family of five children: William, deceased; George W. and John W., who were twins; Sarah, now deceased, who married George Elston and lived in Breckenridge, Colorado; and Jennie, deceased, who was the wife of Elijah Limes and lived in Van Wert county, Ohio. Miss Sarah Thompson was the bride of Mr. Holtz's second marriage. She lived, however, only three years after their union, having become the mother of one daughter, Laura, who has been married twice, John Trotter having been her first husband, and Casius Gump her second. Mr. Holtz, who died May 2, 1898, and the deceased members of his family are buried in Union Bethel cemetery in Richmond township.