Marion County, Ohio - Richland Township, 1883

Richland Township

ICHLAND TOWNSHIP was one of the first constructed in Marion County, it having been organized June 8, 1824, and made to include surveyed Township No. 6, Range No. 16. Richland, however, is not a full surveyed township, it containing only twenty-seven sections and six fractional sections, instead of thirty-six, the requisite number of a full surveyed township. The above entry does not show this, but such is and ever has been the full extent and size of this township. Since its first organization, its boundaries have not been disturbed, neither has there been any attempt to change them.

The township consists wholly of Congress Lands. The soil is urusually rich, fertile and productive, and adapted to raising all kinds of grain, fruit and vegetables which grow in this climate. The surface is level in the northern part and gently rolling in the southern portion. - The lands are abundantly watered by innumerable springs and properly drained by a perfect network of streams andrivulets which flow into the Whetstone River, that passes angling through the township from northeast to southwest, thus rendering fertile the valley of the Whetstone, and making it the finest and best yielding land in the country. So productive are the landa here that the few early settlers who lived within the territory of the township at the time of its organization, in 1824, desired to give it the appropriate name of Rich-land or Richland, and their wishes were respected; the name was granted by the Commissioners, and thus it has ever since remained as one, indicating the true quality of the soil within its borders.

Settlement

Early in the spring of 1820, Mr. Gleason and family located on the place now occupied by Mr. Oborn, and soon after Peter Dunklebarger and family came and built their cabin on the farm now occupied by George Retterer, Sr.; John Emery and wife Catherine came next in order and located on the place now owned and occupied by Mrs. Emery.

Mrs. Emery stated that she is the oldest settler now living within the township. She was born in Perry County, Penn., August 14, 1800. At the ` age of twelve years, she came to Monroe County, Ohio, with her parents, Matthias and Barbara Harter. In 1818, while yet in Monroe County. she was married to John Emery, who was born in Virginia, December 14, 1797. In the spring of 1820, they came to Marion County, venturing beyond the limits of any white settlement, as they thought, and knew not of any white man's habitation so far north as they had come. Imagine, then, their surprise the following Sunday after their arrival to receive a visit from Peter Dunklebarger, who had preceded them a few weeks and whose location was still further removed from the established settlements of Delaware County. It was a visit of welcome, and never, perhaps, was welcome more genuine. The ring of Mr. Emery's ax in the deep forest during the week, as he, for himself and wife, was preparing, as it were, was sweet musie to the ear of Mr. Dunklebarger, as the echoing notes came reverberating through the deep wood, attraeting his attention. So Mr. Dunklebarger had hastened to make the new-comers' acquaintance, which, as the years went by, grew into a permanent and lasting friendship.

The next family in order that came was that of Samuel Scribner, who located on a part of the farm now owned by Jacob Retterer, in 1820, and Adam Conklin came the same year and settled just where Jacob Retterer now lives. Joseph Oborn built a cabin in the township during the same year, but did not come with his family until the following season, at which time came ulso his brother, Daniel Oborn.

The following year Henry Worline and family came aud located near where Michael Jacoby now lives, and there built a cabin, and soon after a saw mill was erected by him, which was the first one in the township. Gilson and family also came about this time and settled where George Gump now lives, as did also Mr. Kelly and family. Booth and family came soon aiter; so also did Henry Sailer, John Williams and Van Crissup and their respective families. Some time during the same year, or the year followigg, came Daniel Firstenberger from Germany, who, perhaps, was the first foreign-born settler of this township; but he was soon joined by a Mr. Miller from the same country.

Michael Jacoby is one of the few early settlers of this township who are still living. He is son of John and Catherine Jacoby, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, John Jacoby having been born in Schuykill County of that State, as was also Michael, which last event occurred March 30, 1809. Michael Jacoby resided in Schuylkill County with his parents until he became fifteen years of age, when he removed with them to Fairfield County, Ohio, where they remained about six months, at the end of which time they came to this county, arriving in what is now Waldo Township February 15, 1824, and lived there one year. They then moved into Richland Township and located about one and a half miles southeast of where Michael now lives. Here Michael lived with hie parents until he was twenty-three years of age, when he was married to Miss Elizabeth Worline, daughter of Henry Worline, one of the early settlers of this township. The marriage occurred November 1, 1832. Not many years after this, Mr. Jacoby's parents died.

Mr. Jacoby says that there were about thirty families in the township. when they came in 1825, and among them, in addition to those already mentioned, were Christian Staley and family, John Waddel and family, Mr. Clark and family, William W. Smith, Jacob Emery, Thomas Rogers, Coonrod Sult, James Dipert, David Sult, Alva Payne, David Phips, Jacob Phips and the two families of Jacob Book and Daniel Lust, from Germany.

Dunbar. In 1830, the tide of immigration to this township from Germany began with renewed vigor and continued with but little cessation for ten years, which about completed the settlement of the township. The settlement was first made along the river valley, thence west to Pleasant Township; and it was not until about 1835 that the settlement of the eastern and southeastern portions of the township was begun. Hence, those parts were occupied by the Germans who came in after that date, and among those living are George Heimlich, Jacob Pfrich dnd a few others.

As an instance of the hardships which the early settlers had to undergo, we may relate that while Mr. Emery was absent in search for his lost horses, which he never succeeded in finding, his noble wife would daily take her spinning wheel and go into the little field, and there, while protecting the growing crop from the squirrels, she would spin the thread that was afterward woven into the cloth which made their garments!

No regularly established roads passed through this township for. many years. Two roads, however, were laid out in 1822, one on either side of the river, both of which led to the Norton settlement. Neither of these roads had ever been regularly established, although the one on the west side of the stream has become a permanent road, having been established by usage, while the one on the east side has been wholly abandoned.

One of the first saw mills built in the country was erected here. Henry Worline, who resided in Delaware County some time previous to his coming here.in 1822, built a saw millon the bank of the Whetstone, near where Michael Jacoby now lives. The mill was erected by Mr. Worline in 1821, the year previous to his moving his family to this county, and was run by him until the time of his death, September 30, 1824. Mr. Worline, in the early part of that year, had built the frame of a grist mill within about five rods of the saw mill, but he never completed it. S. W. Knapp finished the grist mill soon after Mr. Worline's death, and it was run until about 1844, at which time it was torn down and a new and more commodious one was built on the opposite side of the river. Steam power was used in this and it was run until in February, 1881, when it was burnt to the ground. After the death of Mr. Worline, Mr. Jacoby took charge of the saw mill and ran it until in 1838, when it was torn down.

In 1827, Titus King came and bought a piece of land of Mr. Kelley, which was located along the Whetstone, and there at once erected a fulling and earding mill, with a saw, mill attachment. This was considered an extensive affair at that day, and quite a 1nammoth business was done there by Mr. King, who conducted the business with energy and success until his death, after which the fulling and carding were abandoned. The saw mill, however, is still running.

À distillery was also erected at an early day, near the center of the township, and was run for a few years with indifferent success, and was finally abandoned.

The mills were of much benefit and a great convenience to the early pioneers, giving them advantages both in easily securing " breadstuff " and preparing clothing material, also furnishing lumber for building purposes, which the early settlers of other townships did not enjoy.

First Events

The first white child born in this township was Christian Staley, Jr., grandson of Christian Staley, Sr., who came here with his family in 1820.

The first marriage was that of Philip Shafer and Nancy Staley. Mrs. Catherine Emery states that she was one of the invited guests and that she attended the wedding in a homspun dress, woven and made by her own hands, and the wedding festivities seemed to have been as much enjoyed by those present, who were all dressed in clothing made of goods of similar material, as such occasions are at the present day, when the ladies appear in their silks and satins and the gentlemen in their broadcloth suits. i

The first death of any white person within the limits of this township was a child of William W. Smith, who died from the effects of a burn accidentally received. The first Justices of the Peace elected in this township after its organization were Joseph Oborn and Thomas Rogers.

Schools were established in the township at an early date and were principally supported by private subscriptions, and at present the township is dotted with a number of good schoolhouses, in which competent teachers. are employed.

Religious

The first religious society that was formed in this township was organized at Mr. John Emery's, by Rev. Jacob Bacon, in the year 1822. It was of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and consisted at first of only five members, namely: John Emery and his wife, Catherine Emery, Jacob Emery and Zuba Wilcox. Of this number, Mrs. Catherine Emery is the only surviving member. idv

The first house of worship erected in this township was a rude log structure, built by the Methodists on the farm now owned by Mrs. Emery, in 1826. Here, in this humble log church, with a few improvements from time to time, this society continued to worship until 1851, when they erected a frame building near the river, at a cost of $000. This building answered the wants of the society until the year 1879, when it had grown quite strong and prosperous. At that time the present house of worship was built, at a cost of $2,400, in addition to the grounds, which were donated by Michael Jacoby. This church building is a fine frame edifice, modeled after the modern church buildings, and has been given the name of St. James' Church. This society has ever been prosperous. The present membership approaches nearly one hundred. A good Sabbath school is sustained in the church now the whole year round, and no society in the country can excel it in faithful, earnest and effective work.

Zion's German Methodist Episcopal Church. - The German Methodists in this locality first began their publie religious services in the year 1845, at the residence of Jacob Seiter; and the following June, 1846, a church was organized with twenty-one members, comprising Daniel, John and William Seiter, G. Beely, Jacob Sehwaderer, Stephen Mack, J. F. and B. Gracely, M. Moyer and J. Schwartz and their wives. At the same time, a church building was completed on the farm of Daniel Seiter, 30x34 feet in ON a In 1878. a new church was erected, 34x56 feet, at a cost of

The Lutheran Church formed a society here in 1835. Their first meetings were held at private residences and in barns and groves, but in 1838 this society and the German Reformed, together erected a house of worship on a piece of land donated to them for that purpose, by John Jacoby, Jr. This was also a log building. The Lutherans continued to worship here for a number of years, until a more commodious building was erected in the southwest part of the township, at a cost of about $3,000. The first minister who had charge of this society was the Rev. Cline. He was paid the

Richland Tqwnship

German Reformed. - Closely allied to tho preceding society is that of the German Reformed, which, during its infancy, shared alike with the Lutherans the accommodations of the old log church above mentioned. The permanent organization of this society, however, was not effected until 1850, at which time there were twelve or fifteen families who connected themselves with it and perfected a complete organization, after which the society met in a house of worship on the "mud pike," which had been built for the use of the various denominations of the township. until the year 1859, when they erected their present church edifice, near Daniel Firstenberger, at a cost of $1,000. Their first minister was Rev. William Ruhl; their present minister is Daniel Schrote, of Marion. Their membership is growing and a good Sunday school is now sustained by this society during the summer of each year.

Richland Church, Presbyterian. - This was organized April 26, 1805, by a committee appointed by the Marion Presbytery, consisting of Henry Van Deman, John B. Blayney and Samuel K. Hughes. The first members were James Mannassmith and wife, Urias F. Luellen and wife, Mrs. Margaret Waddel, William Waddel, Daniel Oborn and wife, Catharine Oborn, Margaret J. Oborn and Mary Oborn. Messrs. Manassmith and Luellen were elected Elders. The next day, Mrs. Mary Oborn, Mrs. Martha Strine and Margaret Strine were added to the church. Others joined soon afterward, and November 30, following, when there were twenty-two members, a Board of Trustees was elected, consisting of Daniel Brenner, John Strine and Daniel Oborn. The society prospered, and in a few years had a frame church, costing about $1,000, with a seating capacity of 200, upon a lot of ground donated by Daniel Oborn; but in the course of about ten years, the society went down, the last entry upon their church record being dated in March, 1860. The building is now used for miscellaneous meetings and public entertainments. The pastors of the church were Revs. J. Hess, T. Smith, J. Evans, William Fry and D. D. Waugh.

The first Sunday school held in this township was organized in 1828 at the residence of Mrs. Conner, at which place it was continued for a long time. It was a Union Sabbath school, in which various creeds and denominations participated alike. Some of those who were instrumental in organizing this Sunday school were S. W. Knapp and his wife, Titus King and wife, John Emery and his wife Catherine, Jacob Emery and his family, William W. Smith and family, John Jacoby and his wife, Thomas Rogers and the two young men, Michael Jacoby and Hopkins Thompson.

Miscellaneous

Richland Township has a few men who have been somewhat connected with the political history of the township and county. Among them is Michael Jacoby, who was elected Township Clerk in the year 1890, which position he held fifteen successive years. In 1838, he was jelected Justice of the Peace, and this office he held for twenty-one successive years. Mr. Jacoby is a stanch Democrat, he having cast his first vote with tbat party in 1830 and has ever since been voting with the same party. He is one of the few remaining old-time Democrats of this county who had the pleasure of voting for Andrew Jackson, in 1832, for the Presidency.

Agricultural Products, Eto., For 1883 Personal Sketches

JOHN BERINGER. John Beringer is a worthy and prosperous citizen of Richland Township. He was born October 16, 1835, in Columbus County, Ohio, and is a son of Christian and Catharine Beringer, who came from Germany prior to 1820, locating in Columbus County until 1837, when they moved to Richland Township, settling where the subject of our sketch resides. They reared a family of eight children; the father died in

| 1867, aged sixty-eight years. The mother still survives at the advanced age of eighty years. Mr. Beringer obtained a moderate education, and March 24, 1859, he married Miss Christina Rull, daughter of Christian and Magdalene Rull, of Richland Township. Their union has been blest witb seven children - two dying young. The living are Samuel D., Frederick C., Franklin J., Alice M. and Amy M. For the first eight years after marriage, Mr. B. rented the home farm, which he inherited and purchased in . 1866, obtaining his present residence in 1876; altogether containing 252 acres, valued at $80 per acre. His farm is well fenced and drained. His house has been renovated and added to, presenting an inviting appearance. The out-buildings are good - the latest being a barn 40x60 feet, constructed iu 1881 at a cost of $1,000. Mr. B. has the best of stock, and raises annually large fields of wheat. His family belong to the Lutheran Church, with which he has been officially connected many years. At present, he is a Trustee. He was Treasurer of the township three years; also Treasurer of the Richland Mutual Fire Insurance Company for some time.

MARTIN EMERY. Martin Emery was born in Monroe County, Ohio, November 26, 1818, the son of John and Catharine Emery. He was a Virginian by birth, while she was a native of Perry County, Penn. Martin's mother's grandfather, Waggoner, was a Revolutionary soldier. His parents settled where he now resides in 1820, hence he and his mother are the oldest living settlers in the township. His people reared a family of nine children, all living - Martin being the oldest. His father died in 183, aged seventy-five years. His mother is still living at the ripe age of eighty-three years. Their only neighbors when they first came were the Worlines, the Oborns and the Rogers. Mr. Emery was educated in the commou school. He was married, October 4, 1855, to Miss Mary Ann Arthur, daughter of Aaron and Maria Arthur, of Richland Township. Their union has been blessed with six children - two dying young. They are Newton, John, Maria C. and Rosa (living); William and Franklin are deceased. Mr. Emery purchased his present residence, consisting of forty acres, in 1860. He already owned ten acres besides. He made all the improvements, and values his farm at $80 per acre. His farm is drained with 200 rods of tile, and is under a good state of cultivation. Mr. E. and family are members of the M. E. Church, of which he is Trustee. His wife died very suddenly in 1882.

DANIEL FIRSTENBERGER was born January 23, 1831, in Germany, State of Baden. His parents, Charles and Leena F. Firstenberger, came to America in 1833, settling one year in Crawford County, Ohio, coming then to Richland Township, where Daniel F. now resides. They reared a family of five children. The father died in 1852, aged forty-eight years; the mother died in 1876, aged seventy-six years. October 28, 1854, Daniel married Miss Caroline Mautz, daughter of Godlieb Mautz, of Pleasant Township. Their union was crowned with ten children - Jacob, Mary (wife of William Kingel), Daniel (deceased); Christena, John, Philip, Fred, Lydia, Catharine and Leena. Mrs. Firstenberger died in 1878, aged fortyfive years. Mr. Firstenberger inherited and purchased the old homestead of seventy-nine and three-quarters acres, which he has increased to 2894 acres, valned at $80 per acre. He built his house in 1866, costing $2,500. The farm is well tiled. Mr. Firstenberger officiated with the German Reformed Church. He has been a powerful man physically, having cradled in a single day five acres of grain.

ELIAS FIRSTENBERGER, the subject of this sketch, is a native of Richland Township, where he was born December 3, 1856. .He is a son of John F. and Harriet Firstenberger, the former from Germany and the lat. ter from Pennsylvania. They settled in Richland Township about 1886, and reared a family of eighteen children, only seven of whom survive. He died November 13, 1882, aged sixty-five years, while his widow passed away in 1866, aged forty years. Elias was educated wholly.in the common school His marriage took place January 6, 1876, to Miss Mary E. Hensel, daughter of Josiah and Elizabeth (Fulton) Hensel, of Richland Township. By inheritance, Mr. Firstenberger came into possession of eighty acres of good Jand in 1882. Upon this he intends building a fine house, at a cost of some $8,000. Our subject is a consistent member of the German Reformed Church, of which he was recently elected Elder.

JACOB FIRSTENBERGER is one of the stirring young men of Richland Township. He is the son of Daniel and Caroline (Mautz) Firstenberer. He was educated in the common school, and was married October 22, 1881, to Miss Catharine Schwarderer, daughter of Jacob Schwarderer, of Pleasant Township. The name of their child is Albert B. He has been renting his father's farm since his marriage, and in 1882 his father built him one of the most elegant houses in Richland Township, costing $3,000. He and his wife associate with the German Reformed Church.

J. G. GOMPF. This family originated in Germany about 1800; five Gompf brothers were living in that country. One sailed for Rio J aneiro, South America, where he has become very wealthy, often visiting his boyhood home in later years. Another embarked for Philadelphia, becoming a physician of repute and affluence. Two others removed to London, doing a thriving business. The fifth brother was our subject's grandfather, Philip Gompf. He served in the German Army fourteen years against Napoleon Bonaparte, escaping without a wound, the only man in the regiment who returned unimpaired. His son John G. was our subject's father. J. G.

Gompf is an intelligent, enterprising citizen, a native of Richland Township, where he was born February 3, 1837. He is ason of J. G. and Sarah (Seltzer) Gompf. His father came from Hessia, Germany, in 1835, while his mother came from Pennsylvania in 1833. They located on what is known as the old Gompf farm, and reared a family of three children; the father died in 1879, aged eighty-two years, the mother still suviving at the age of eighty years. His grandfather Seltzer attained the remarkable age of one hundred and two years, and cradled wheat in his one hundredth year. Mr. G. obtained his education wholly in the common school. When a young man, he saved 265 sheep, worth $4,500, from drowning, by an exhibition of fortitude almost unparalelled in the county. June 5, 1862, he marri2d Miss Julia A. Pontius, daughter of John and Anna (Warline) Pontius. Nine children have blessed their home, one dying young ; the living are Calvin O. G., John B. W., William H., Charles M. E., George D. N., Cicero B. F., Joseph H. M., Mary J. M. and Francis M. W. Mr. Gompf purchased thirty acres of the:south farm in 1862, which he has increased to 277% acres, valued to-day at $80 per acre. His farm is well fenced and underdrained. He cultivates with special care fine sheep, of which he owns at present 200 head. Mr. G. and family belong to the Meth. odist Episcopal Church, of which he has served in nearly every capacity, being Class Leader at present. His fellow-citizens have continued him as Justice for three years, and made him Land Appraiser in 1870. He is now President of the Board of Education. He has settled several estates satisfactorily. .

FREDERICK HALT was born July 22, 1846, in Wittenberg, Germany, where he operated a brewery for seven years. He migrated to America in 1871, and worked for his brother, John Halt, for one year. ' February 19, 1873, he married Miss Mary Swartz, daughter of Jacob Swartz. This union has been crowned with six children, three dying young. Henry, Ida and Fred, Jr, are living. Since marriage, Mr. Halt has been renting his father-in-law's place of ninety-six acres, and is rearing good stock generally. Before coming to America, our subject served nearly four years in the German Army; was engaged in the late war with France and Germany as a member of the Fifth and Sixth Army Corps, under Crown Prince Frederick. Heis a member of the German Methodist Church. He brought to this country $14, and to-day is worth some $2,500.

JOHN HEIMLICH is an intelligent German, living in the southern part of Richland Township. At the time of his birth, September 5, 1842 his parents, Jacob and Derosa Heimlich, were living in Alsace, France, now a German province. He emigrated to America in 1847, buying eighty acres, where our subject now resides. Their children numbered three, and the father died in 1873, aged sixty-four years, while the mother passed away in 1879, aged seventy-two years. Our subject having obtained an ordinary education, bought and inherited the old homestead, to which he has been adding, until his farm consists to-day of 200 acres, well drained and fenced. He has good buildings, and he values his farm at $80 per acre. He has accumulated not less than $20,000. June 19, 1864, he married Miss Barbara Augenstein, daughter of Ernest and Christina Augenstein. Ten children have blessed this union - William S., Mary A. Charles F., John J., Emma C., Wastey P., Henry F., Clara S. and Ella S. (twins) and Dora B. Mr. H. entertains the Democratic principles, and the family worship at the Lutheran Church, with which he has been officially connected.

MICHAEL JACOBY, the oldest settler of Richland in residence, was born March 30, 1809, in Pine Grove Township, Schuylkill County, Penn. His parents, John and Catherine Jacoby, likewise his grand-parents and greatgrand-parents, were natives of the same township. His people came from Holland originally, and settled along the Delaware River. His great-grandfather, Gideon Myers, attained the remarkable age of one hundred and four years. His grandfather, Bartholomew Jacoby, served in the Revolutionary war; also several of his uncles. His pareuts arrived in Richland Township, Feb. 15, 1824, having traveled 600 miles by wagon, and bringing a family of nine children, having left four in Pennsylvania. They entered eighty acres a little east of our subject's present home. His fathen died in 1844, aged seventy-three years, while the mother passed away in 1887, aged sixtythree years. . Our subject obtained a moderate education, and remained with his parents until his marriage, which occurred November 1, 1832. The next day he voted for Gen. Jackson for his second term of the Presidency. This school of politics he has. followed faithfully all his days. The object of his affections was Miss Elizabeth Warline, daughter of Henry and Catharine Warline. Ten children have resulted from this union - Catharine (deceased), wife of Samuel Wadde!; Mary, Daniel Myer's widow; Henry, who served two years in the late war, becoming Lieutenant, and was killed at Gettysburg; James, also.a soldier and Lieutenant; Michael, Jr.; John; Elizabeth, wife of Morris J. Aye; Margaret, wife of John Waddel; Elias, attorney, of Indian. apolis, Ind.; Maria, wife of Elmore C. Smith. January 1, 1833, he entered 160 acres, known to-day as the "Old Jacoby Farm," but altogether he owns 700 acres, stretching one and a half miles along the Whetstone River. His house, which he built in 1842, was the fourth frame house built in the township. Mr, J. has the finest stock of all kinds. In 1850, he built a large barn 54x132 feet. At an early age, he and his wife joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, which he has served in every capacity, acting as Steward for the past thirty years. He has ever been prominent in the home polities, being elected Town Clerk when just twenty-one, and was continued for fifteen years; also made Justice of the Peace and served twenty-one years. A few years since he was Land Appraiser of Tully, Scott, Claridon and Richland Townships. In 1879, he gave the lot and $1,000 for the building of the Methodist Episcopal Church near his home. Mr. J. has been a remarkable man in many respects, especially in physical endurance. He cleared 500 acres of land, and in a day and a half cut and splitfrom the stumps 515 rails; when aged twenty-four, he mowed two acres with scythe; he has often reaped with sickle one acre in a day. With his brother Jacob he split 1,100 rails in a day. When temperance became an issue, he received 61 cents more each day for abstaining. He is hale and hearty still. Upon the occasion of Mr. and Mrs. Jacoby's golden anniversary, November 1, 1882, there were present four sons and four daughters, thirty grand. chil. dren and three great-grand-children. After congratulations, they surrounded the bountifully spread tables; the bride and groom of fifty years ago were placed at the end of one of them, the pastor and the bride's sister, Mrs. Kern, the only one present who had attended the wedding fifty years befure, sat opposiie; four sons sat on the father's right; four daughters on the mother's left. The husband of the deceased daughter occupied the chair that would have been hers; and the gallant son who fell at Gettysburg, was represented by a namesake grandson, Henry Waddel. Mr. Jacoby is a remarkable man; he is of the stamp of men who succeed, but anyone would have succeeded with that " sweet-faced christian woman," who has stood by his side a help-mate fifty years. To their children they bequeath an honest and an honorable name, and not by any one of them has it been tarnished.

ADAM KLINGEL was born April 11, 1844, a native of Richland Township, and the son of Lucas Klingel and Doratha (Harsch) Klingel. He came from Germany about 1825, settling in the southwestern part of the township. They were owners in time of nearly 200 acres there; he cleared about seventy-five acres. In his early days, he was both a tailor and shoemaker; his death occurred in 1872, aged fifty-nine years) The mother still survives, aged sixty-eight years. Our subject received a common school education, and in 1864 enlisted in Company K, Seventy-fourth. Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; his principal engagements were at Decatur, Ala., battle of the Cedars, Overall's Creek and Kingston, N. ©.: he served mostly under Gen. Schofield. For two weeks he was contined at Fortress Rosecrans in the hospital. He continued until the close of the war, being honorably discharged in July, 1865. April 25, 1867, he married Miss Mary E. Firstenberger, daughte. of Frederick Firstenberger. Six children have been born to this union - William H., Charles W., John F., J. Wallace, Henrietta L. and Emma M. He rented his farm a number of years, but purchased it in 1876. It consists of 100 acres, valued at $80 per acre; he paid $6,500. Our subject has been Treasurer of the township forfour years. The family belong to the German Reformed Church, with which he has been officially connected.

WILLIAM C. KRAMER is one of the stirring, leading men of Richland Township. His birth took place the 30th of September, 1837, in Germany; his parents, Christian and Christina Kramer, emigrated to America in 1849, settling in Richland Township. They bought first forty acres, but added later sixty-one acres nore. They reared but two children- - our subject, and Charles C., who was an engineer, was killed near Bellefontaine, upon the Quincy curve. These parents are still living, aged eighty-three and eighty years respectively. Our subject's education was commenced in the German schools, but he finished it in our common schools. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Linius, daughter of William Linius, of Galion, Ohio, March 9, 1869. Seven children have been born to them. The names of the living are William H. and Ida (twins), John C., Mary A., Henry A. and Augusta D. He purchased his present home in 1872, then containing forty acres; he now owns 120 acres, well-fenced and drained and with good buildings. Mr. R. has fine stock; his work horses are the Norman and English draught, and he owns a registered English draught horse; his merino sheep are the besi in the township. During the war, Mr. K. was in the Quartermaster department of the Government, working at Nashville, Tenn. He and family are members of the M. E. Church.

ALBRIGHT MACK was born November 5, 1823, at Wittenberg, Germany, the son of Stephen and Magdalena (Sheerer) Mack, who emigrated to America in 1840, locating in Richland Township, buying ninety-five acres of land. They raised a family of six children. The mother died in 1859, aged fifty-four years, and the father died in 1867, aged seventy-three years. Our subject having obtained a limited education, married upon the anniversary of his birth in 1859, Miss Susanna Gable. Eight children have crowned this union - Peter (deceased), Henry (deceased), Jacob, David, Abraham, Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Graham; Amanda, wife of Samuel Milisor, and Anna. Mr. M. inherited the old homestead of ninety-five acres, and by industry and frugality he has become possessed of 199 acres more; he values the home place at $100 per acre. His house, which he built at an expense of $3,000, was burned in 1882. A neat new house stands upon its site to-day, occupied by his son David. At present, our subject is living in Marion; he and wife are members of the Evangelical Church, with which he has been officially connected for many years. Mr. M. holds to the principles of Republicanism.

JACOB F. MARTIN is a highly respected citizen. He was born in Baden, Germany, November 17, 1817, the son of Christopher and Margaret Martin, who came to America in 1830, requiring forty-nine days in passage, locating in Pennsylvania, but came to Richland Township in 1833, settling where Jacob now lives, buying at first twelve and a half acres, but made it forty acres in time. His family numbered six children. In 1853, their father died, aged sixty years. The mother still survives, aged eighty-seven years. Jacob F. commenced working by the day and month, when aged sixteen years, and continued till his marriage, whieh occurred in the summer of 1858, to Miss Casiah Anderson, daughter of Abraham and Mary Anderson, of Marion Township. Ten children have been born to this union, four dying young. The living are James H., George O., Charles S., Mary M., wife of Frederick Augenstein, Maria E. and Haly. For sixteen years he labored as tanner for Thomas Henderson in Marion; but in 1850, he purchased his present residence, then of 160 acres, adding since forty acres, valued at $75 per acre. He also owns 320 acres in Paulding County, Ohio. His farm is in excellent repair, with good improvements ; he is cultivating the best of stock. His family belong to the Evangelical Church Association,in which he formerly acted asclass. leader, but during the past five years has been local preacher. Mr. Martin had two sons in the late war - James H. and George C., both honorably discharged. For eleven years, he was Township Clerk, and County Commissioner for one term.

JOHN L. McCLENATHAN was born May 10, 1857, in Morrow County, Ohio, son of Blair and Mary A. (Dalrumple) McClenathan. Their fathers both came from Ireland, but they migrated from Pennsylvania in 1837, and settled in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. They remained there till 1853, when they came to Morrow County, Ohio. They arrived in Marion County, October, 1868, with a family of seven children. The father accumulated a property of $20,000, and died August 18, 1870, aged fifty-nine years ; the mother is still living with our subject, aged seventy years. Mr. Mc- Clenathan obtained a fair practical education at the district school He married, December 31, 1879, Delora C. Bolinger, daughter of George and Mary A. (Singer) Bolinger. This union has been crowned with the birth of three children - Elsie, Mary I. and Cora. Our subject inherited ten and a half acres, but has been renting seventy-nine acres of the old home farm for a number of years. His family worship at the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he entertains the principles of the Democracy.

JACOB MAUTZ is one of the substantial citizens of Richland Township. He was born August 29, 1834, in Pennsylvania. His parents, Godleib F. and Christina Mautz came to Pleasant Township in 1830; the mother still survives. Mr. Mautz obtained his education in the common schools, and married, August 24, 1858, Miss Margaret Beoler, daughter of Christian Beoler, of Crawford County, Ohio. Their children have numbered ten, three dying young. The names of the living are Mary, Christian F., Cath. eriné; Henry, Matilda, Albert and Harry. Mr. M. purchased his present residence in 1864, consisting then of 100 acres, which he has increased to 3543 acres, valued at $80 per acre. He gives special attention to the rais. ing of wheat and corn, and the fattening of cattle. He also keeps

Clydesdale horses. He built his house in 1880, costing $3,000. He has officiated as Township Trustee ten years, and was formerly Director of the "Home Insurance Company." He and family belong to the Lutheran Church, in which he has acted in nearly every capacity, at present as Trustee.

JOSEPH MORRIS is an estimable citizen, living in the eastern part of Richland Township. His birth took place in Burlington County, N. J., June 23, 1804. In 1680, his great-grandfather, George Morris, came to America, a mere boy, settling in the above State. His grandfather, Anthony Morris, had a family of fourteen children. He is the sixth child of Joseph and Rachel (Zelley) Morris, who came to Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1821, rearing a family of twelve children, only four of whom are living. The Morrises have been Quakers for generations. His mother became such subsequent to marriage. This is probably the only Quaker family in the county. Our subject having received a common school education, married, November 27, 1828, Miss Jane Warrington, daughter of Abraham and Reziah (Woolman) Warrington, and seven children have crowned this union. Their names àre Abraham W.; Tabitha, wife of Thomas E. Hartley; John P., Joshua, Keziah, Rachel E. and Joseph C. Mr. Morris came to Richland Township in 1837, locating where he now resides, where he entered 120 acres. Through industry, he at one time owned 400 acres of land. He has at present a 100-acre farm, having disposed of the remainder mostly to his children. He built a frame house in 1848. During the past forty years, he has been cultivating a nursery, sending many specimens to distant parts of the State. During the civil war, Mr. M. visited many parts of the East and South, inspired by his love for humanity, leaving tracts, clothes and contraband goods, wherever he found a waiting opportunity. He was also a member of the * Underground Railroad." Some years later, he published a record of his life and labors iu a work known as " Reminiscences of Jo. seph Morris." Its every page bespeaks a life prompted by the highest motives. He isstill a Quaker in custom, act and word, and a worthy citizen, honored by all who know him. Though in his seventy-ninth year, he is still vigorous, reaping this season twenty-six dozen of wheat with a sickle. He spends his winters in Florida, where he has a little farm of twenty acres, upon which he has 300 orange trees.

CHARLES NEUBAUER was born April 9, 1842, in Saxony, Germany, and having obtained a fair education, he acquired a knowledge of stonemasonry. When aged eighteen years, he sailed for America, and stopped at Columbus, Ohio, working by the day and month, until 1862, when he came to Richland Township. He first purchased twenty acres, for which he paid $1,000. But he and his wife at present own 240 acres of good land, which he keeps in excellent repair. He already has out 1,100 rods of tile; he values his place at $90 per acre, and anticipates building in the immediate future. November 12, 1862, our subject married Hannah, daughter of William Baechler, and the names of their four children are Frederick, Mary, Emma and Charles. Mr. N. is a Democrat, and he and his family belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. In money-making, Mr. N. has made : BEER for he came to this country with nothing, and is worth to-day

GEORGE RETTERER was born May 4, 1821, in Alsace, France, now a province of Germany, the son of George and Martha Retterer. The common school gave him his education. He left home aged twelve years, and became a stable and genera! chore boy. For nine years he drove a stage- coach between Marion and Upper Sandusky, and most of that time he met often with Indians. Having received from his father's estate $200, together with eighty acres of land in Henry County, Ohio, he purchased in 1842 his present home, then of eighty acres, which he has increased to 195 acres today, valued at $90 per acre. He has made all the improvements, having built his attractive house in 1873, costing $3,000. November 12, 1842, our subject married Miss Catherine Moyer, daughter of John and Catherine Moyer. This union has resulted in fourteen children, four dying young; the living are George, Jacob, Henry, Philip, Catherine, Fredrick, Mary, John, Charles W. and Emma. Mr. Retterer and family belong to the Lutheran Church, of which he has been deacon the past six years. Mr. Retterer's public career embraces the following offices: Trustee of Richland Township five years, member of Board of Agriculture fourteen years, three years its President and seven years its Vice President, Director of County Infirmary seven years, and is County Commissioner at present.

JACOB RETTERELN is another respected and enterprising citizen of Richland Township. His birth took place March 13, 1826, the son of John G. and Martha Retterer, who migrated to America in 1831, settling in Marion County, and entering eighty acres in Pleasant Township. They remained there until 1837. when they moved to Richland Township upon eighty acres, where Jacob now lives. His family consisted of eight children. He died in 1863, aged sixty-nine years, and his mother in 1873, aged eighty-one years. Jacob Retterer married, November 5, 1848, Miss Sophia Myers, daughter of George J. and Catherine Myers, of Richland Township. Their children are nine in number - David, Sarah (wife of John Hinaman), Elizabeth (wife of David Deich), Sophia (wife of William Stark), Mary (wife of George Shanlaub), Catherine, Martha, Samuel and Clement H. Mr. Retterer inherited and purchased eighty acres of his present residence, and has increased these to 277 acres, valued at $90 per acre. In 1875, he built and repaired his residence, worth some $2,000 to-day. He erected a barn in 1869 at a cost of $2,000. One thousand rods of tile drain his farm; in connection with his agricultural pursuits he rears graded stock. He and family are members of the Lutheran Church, iu which he has acted in 'nearly every official capacity. He has been Trustee of the township for two or three terms, and has been President of the Home Insurance Comany.

DANIEL SEITER, Sr., a highly respected citizen of Richland Township, Marion Co., Ohio, was born in Baden, Germany, August 18, 1818, and emigrated with his parents, Jacob and Magdalena Seiter, to America in 1830. He bought ninety-five acres of timber land, on which they settled, and cleared about fifty acres, where he still resides. The father died in 1851, aged seventy-three years, and the mother in 1880, aged eighty-seven years. He was married to Miss Margaret Klingel, who is still his companion, January 9, 1841. This union has been blessed with ten children, seven sons and three daughters, a daughter and son dying in infancy; two were killed in the late rebellion, and four sons and two daughters are still living. Mr. Seiter purchased the old homestead, and owned several good farms of which he has disposed. He has been a hard worker, clearing about one hundred acres of heavy timbered land. He and companion have been members of the German Methodist Episcopal Church for over thirty years, with which he has been ofticially connected for many years.

buying ninety-six acres, which increased to 119 acresin time. The father cleared sixty-five acres of timbered land. He reared a family of nine children, and died in 1879, aged seventy-four years. The mother died in 1851, aged thirty-four years. Our subject having obtained a moderate education, inherited and purchased the old homestead of ninety-six acres, which is well-drained and fenced. He built a good house in 1862, at a cost of $800, and he has greatly increased its facilities this season, expending thereon $1,000. October 20, 1874, he married Miss Caroline Hall, daughter of Frederick and Caroline Hall. This union has been blessed with four children - Samuel A., Anna R., John F., and William H. This family associate with the Lutheran Church. He is a Democrat, but liberal in his views.

GEORGE J. WICK was born November 12, 1854, and is a native of Richland Township. Heisa son of Jacob and Margaret (Wilt) Wick, who came from Germany in 1832. At first they bought eighty acres, where our subject now resides. But prosperity had so highly favored their labors, that when the father passed away, he left an estate of $50,000. The family numbered seven children, C. Jacob being the eldest. The father died in 1878, aged fifty-eight years, while the mother died in 1866. Our subject having obtained a limited education, inherited by the death of his father his farm of eighty acres, upon which stands a house built in 1862, at a cost of $2,000. The large barn was built in 1874 for $1,000. Mr. Wick breeds the best of graded stock. He received from his father's estate in money and land $6,000, and is worth to-day some $8,000. Apri! 1, 1877, he married Miss Minnie, daughter of Edward Stickel. The names of their two children are Jacob E. and Charles W. His family associate with the Lutheran Church.

JACOB YAKE was born October 8, 1852, in Richland Township, the son of George and Catharine (Wick) Yake. His grandfather Yake came from Germany about 1833, entering eighty acres near where our subject resides, and cleared nearly the whole farm. He died when aged eighty-five years, his only child having inherited the property, and increased it to 440 acres, all joining, and also purchased 150 acres in Morrow County, where he still resides. His family consists of three sons and one daughter. Recently he gave to each child eighty acres, obliging them to pay $1,600 each. Our subject having received a common school education, married March 18, 1875, Miss Caroline Groll, daughter of Frederick Groll. The names of their three children are Harvey J., Charles W. and Ella C. B. In 1878, Mr. Yake built a neat house, expending therefor $1,500. His farm is worth $75 per acre. His politics are Democratic.

COAT ROCK is one of the original townships of Marion County. A diligent search of the records has failed to reveal any formal entry of its organization, but from the first session of the County Commissioners, the township has been duly recognized in all of their subsequent proceedings. It at first contained the entire original surveyed Towaship No. 4, Range No. 14, but when the county of Wyandot was erected, and the boundaries of Crawford and Marion Counties were changed, in the year 1845, two tier of sections from the north side were taken off and given to Pitt Township, Wyandot County, leaving this township to only twenty-four sections; but Salt Rock, in common with all the northern tier of townships, was re-organized, and has thus ever since remained. The following is the entry of re-organization: AUDITOR AND COMMISSIONERS' OFFICE, MARION, MARION Co., OHIO. i March 28, 1845.

Ordered, That the several fractions of the townships of Washington, Tully, Scott, Grand Prairie, Salt Rock and Grand in Marion County, by reason of the passage of the act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, entitled ''An act to erect the new county of Wyandot and alter the bounds of the county of Crawford," passed February 3, 1845, be and they are respectively organized into separate townships, and that said townships so re-organized respectively retain their original names and numbers on the records and duplicates of Marion County for all purposes whatever:

John Uncapher

This township received its name.in a rather singular manner. It is said that upon an occasion when the early settlers, who were few in number at that time - the time when the organization and naming of the town- Ships were in contemplation - were gathered together discussing these subjects, when Ebenezer Roseberry sought to enliven the occasion, as was his wont, by relating a few incidents drawn from his varied experience; and among others he related the following:

* Soon after 1 came to this place, I shot and wounded the largest buck I ever saw; not so seriously, however, but that he could get over the tall grass pretty rapidly on three legs. In the pursuit, I stumbled and fell over what I supposed to be a rock; but as it looked so white, I turned to break off a piece, which, I declare, was pure salt."

Of course this provoked the mirth of the company, and, in the laugh which followed, Platt Bush said, * That will do; * Salt Rock" shall be the name of the township." Accordingly, Salt Rock was the name proposed to the Commissioners for this division, and it was also the name adopted by them. Thus it will be observed that even the relating of a trifling ineident, incredible as it may have been, was the means of furnishing a name for one of Marion County's finest divisions.

Salt Rock embraces a portion of the "Sandusky Plains," and its surface is very level. Timber is found around the border of the plains, and along the banks of the few streams. The Little Sandusky and a few tributary branches flow from the southeast to the northwest, through the eastern part of the township, forming a good natural drainage for that portion of this division; but the western part has reqnired a great deal of drainage, by means of large, open ditches, chief among which are Prairie Run ditch, Carroll ditch and the Thompson ditch. The low places and the few ponds here have been pretty generally redeemed by the combination of the natural and artificial systems of drainage, though during thespring and other wet seasons of the year, much water still stands on the lowest portions of its territory. ; N

Amoug the most noted ponds here, of former times, was that of "Goose Pond," well-known, at the time of its existence, to sportsmen in every city west of the Alleghanies. It covered an area of about fifty acres, and seéMned to be the half-way stopping-place for the numerous migratory birds in their semi-annual flights from the lakes of the North to the bayous of the South. During the spring and fall of the year, often for weeks at a time, this pond was literally covered with geese, ducks and other aquatic

964 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. fowl, and the noise occasioned by their squawking was annoying, almos* past endurance, for several miles around. In early days, there weré no shot-guns in use here; the flint.lock rifle was all the sportsman carried, and it is related that a single discharge of one bullet from one of these rifles would often kill a half-dozen geese, so thick were they upon the bosom of this pond at times. But this pond has long since disappeared. Proper drainage has made the place tillable, and now, instead of a vast pond, frequented by legions of water-fowl, there are well-cultivated fields, annually yielding abundant crops, from which the husbandman reaps a rich reward.

The most of the soil in this township is of inexhaustible fertility, admirably adapted to the raising of grain, and to grazing purposes. The and ditches are usually well bridged, and good roads extend, through many portions of the township. Fine farms, with good buildings and cultivated fields, are found on every hand, and schoolhouses at convenient localities. A number of artesian wells have been sunk, to the depth of from thirty to fifty feet, which raise the water from five to ten feet above the surface, thus furnishing an abundant supply of water for stock.

Ebenezer Roseberry, from New Qrleans, was the first settler of this township, locating near what has since been the residence of A. Martin, about eight miles south of Upper Sandusky. It was on the Radnor road, which passed through Big Island into Delaware County.

Messrs. Vulgamat and Alcott came in 1819. Hugh V. Smith, originally from Clark County, Va., arrived in 1820; Enoch Clark and Mahlon Marsh and family, in 1821; Richard Hopkins in 1821 or 1822; and John McElvy, Isaac Woods, George King and others about the same time.

John Green was the first Justice of the Peace. The first school was taught at John Green's in 1823. The first hunting hounds were brought from Virginia, in 1826, by Robert Martin and his sons. The first merchant, Ora Bellis, from New York, located in 1819, and died the same year, being the first death. The first birth was that of Rosanna Bowser, in 1820. Her father, a few days after, was at the first election in the township, and his vote was challengedjon account of minority. He could not testify to his age, but " thought he was entitled to vote, for he had a wife and baby." This election was held at Ebenezer Roseberry's, near the present site of

A combat between two Indian chiefs, near Carpenter's Cross Roads, in this township, was witnessed by a settler, unknown to them, and is thus described: "They met, dismounted, and immediately rushed into deadly strife; one with a tomahawk and the other with a long butcher knife. They fought like madmen, and dealt stroke after stroke, and cut after cut, till both fell to the ground exhausted. One soon recovered, took the tomahawk of the other and threw it into the bushes, then, staggering to his pony, remounted and went out of sight, dripping with blood." The eye-witness to this terrible hand-to-hand combat went to the nearest house and reported it, and, accompanied by the writer, then a boy seven years old, returned to the scene of encounter. The wounded Indian had recovered, so that, with a little help, he was soon on his pony, wending his way back to his tribe. The wild grass was stained with blood, marking the track of the struggle.

Arch Ological

Little Sandusky Creek, a sinuous stream, meanders across the township, and along its banks are many springs, in early days the haunts of wild ani. mals, and the scene of many hunting adventures, whites and Indians often joining in the wild sport. Near the banks of this stream are the remains of extensive wigwams. The plan seems much like the Pawnee houses, though, before the ground was disturbed, some two years since, the tracings of a large amphitheater were quite perfect. Near by, on the table-land, is an oblong circle around the highest point in the vicinity, inclosed by a ditch 550 paces in length. The break, or passage-way, in the ditch is on the southwest and northeast, in a direct line with the fallen buildings. Two wells are distinctly visible on the southeast. Oak trees are standing in the ditch, to mark the passing of hundreds of years. In the immediate vicinity, as the trees were cut down a few years s'nce, ax marks were found in several trees, plain and perfect as though made by a recent hand, though over a hundred years had covered up the scars.

The footprints of the Mound-Builders were left, to an interesting extent, in the northeast part of the township. In the vicinity of Morral is a circular mound, several feet high, and in the days of the early settlers quite prominent, with a hickory tree upon its apex. The tree is now gone, but the ground has never been disturbed, and its tracings are still distinct. One mile from this are other curiosities, undisturbed till six years ago, showing that this section has been the home of those of an unknown past.

One mile northwest of these ancient mounds, on the edge of the prairie, and near a large pond, as the sod was turned over for the first time a few years since, lead bullets were discovered in the furrow, and boys found them by the pocketful They were near or quits an ounce in weight. Being six or eight inches under the surface,shows they were not of recent deposit.

A Pioneer Wedding

About the year 1825, on the banks of the Little Sandusky Creek, a wedding took place, at Robert Martin's, father of A. Martin, of Morral, on the place-ow occupied by Amos Taylor. The ceremony was performed about 8 o'clock in the evening, in the month of October. During the day, a good lot of pies and cakes had been baked in the brick oven down on the hillside - a characteristic institution of those days - and a huge pot, filled with cooked chicken, hung upon the crane in the fire-place. Those who came hither bent on some fun were Samuel and John Harmon, Samuel Morral, Sr., Reuben Johns. Mr. Neff (father of Squire Neff, of Morral), Mr. Green and others. These old soldiers watched for their opportunity, and just before the ceremony was said, marched in and formed a close line in front of the fire-place, concealing it from the company. The Captain, S. Morral, stepped behind this line, clandestinely seized the pot with its contents, and saying, " Forward, march!" out they strode with their prize thoroughly concealed. The company, though somewhat chagrined at the loss of their * chicken fixins'," consoled themselves with the idea that they had a plenty of pies and cakes in the oven. But what must have been their disappointment when they went out and found that all those luxuries also had disappeared, and even the oven, too; for those same brave soldiers had put poles under it and carried it off, with all its contents, about a half-mile down the creek, and gone "into camp!"

Free-Will Baptist Church Of Morral

In 1878, Rev. L. Johnson held a series of meetings at this place, and organized a society, composed of persons of various Christian denominations. Samuel Morral was chosen Deacon. Meetings were held in schoolhouses until 1880, when a committee, composed of Samuel Morral, J. P. Barnthouse and J. Stauffer, were appointed to raise funds and build a house of worship. Samuel Morral donated land for a site, and the house, which was 35x45 feet in size, was completed in 1881, including the bell, at a cost of $1,800, The church was dedicated to its holy purpose on the second Sunday in September, by Rev. O. E. Baker, who preached the dedicatory sermon, assisted by Revs. J. Seitz, S. D. Bates and W. H. Gibson. Jn February, 1882, Revs. Seitz and Bates re-organized the society into the present church, at which time the membership numbered twelve. Rev. L. Johnson was succeeded by Rev. Isaac Seitz as pastor, who continued to preach to the congregation until April, 1882, since which time, Rev. S. D. Bates has "ministered the Word." The church has a present membership of twenty, with Samuel Morral, J. P. Barnthouse and J. Stauffer as Trustees, and Mrs. Huldah Barnthouse, Clerk.

Personal Sketches

In connection with this church, a Sabbath school and missionary society are maintained. PERSONAL SKETCHES, We subjoin personal notices of a number of the pioneers and citizens of Salt Rock Township :

' JAMES IRVINE & BROS. These gentlemen, James, William, Wilson and Richard, are known throughout the county as purchasers and shippers of stock. Their parents, David and Catherine Irvine, were born and married in County Donegal, Ireland, in 1840. Mr. Irvine, before coming to this country, plied the plasterer's trade and possessed freehold property. The family, then consisting of five children - John, James, Catherine, William and Eliza - emigrated to America in 1849, locating at Independence, Penn., for eleven years. From there they moved to Marion County, near Bryan Station, on the " Campbell farm," remaining three years, when they went to "Gorton Grove farm " for four years, and still later to Big Island Village, where the father died in 1870, aged sixty years. The family then rented the "Corey farm," in Wyandot County, Ohio, until 1874, when they purchased where they now reside. They bought the Corey farm of 480 acres, also sixty-four acres near Marion and 320 acres where they live. For enterprise and industry, the Irvine Bros. deserve commendation. About the time they came to Salt Rock, they began buying and shipping stock, and have been very successful. Wilson and William attend principally to farming, while Richard buys and ships to James, who attends to the sales at Buffalo or New York City. They deal altogether in cattle, sheep and hogs.

A. L. D. KING, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township in 1836. His father was a native of the State of Delaware, whence he came to Pickaway County, Ohio, where he was married to Miss Hessy Hopkins. He came with his family to Marion County in 1823, and entered 160 acres of land, and afterward made additions to this land until he owned 448 acres. He served in the war of 1812, and died in Salt Rock Township January 10, 1857. He was an influential and respected citizen. His widow died in 1874. The subject of this notice is a grain and stock farmer, owning a farm of 117 acres. He is a member of the Grange and of the Presbyterian Church, and is also a Democrat.

: GEORGE J. KING, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township March 31, 1852. During his minority, he secured a good practical education' and followed the occupation of teaching for a short time. He was married, November 16, 1875, to Annie Alkire, and now resides on his farm of 1334 acres in Salt Rock Township. Mr. King is a prosperous farmer, and has served the township in the various local offices. He is a member of the Grange, and in politics is a Republican. Mr. King's mother, Jane, was the first white child born in Salt Rock Township.

SAMUEL H. KING, farmer, was born in this township June 5, 1827. He inherited from his father forty acres of land, where he now lives. He has increased his possessions, and now owns 155 acres. He was married, November 7, 1850, to James Thompson. Mr. King is a stock and grain farmer, and makes sheep a specialty. He is a Republican, and is now serving as Justice of the Peace. Himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. He is an ardent sportsman, and while on a hunting trip in Michigan in 1881 he killed eighty-nine deer, and last fall, 1882, besides other game, killed a black bear in the same State.

SAMUEL MAHAFFEY is a native of Donegal County, Ireland, and was born April 7, 1836. His father was a farmer, which occupation Samuel has always followed. He, with his mother and five brothers, came to the United States in 1847, and settled in this county. Until twelve years of age, Mr. Mahaffey attended the parish school in Ireland, and, after coming to Marion County, a few months in the township schools. 'In the fall of 1858, he was married, and the same year bought 120 acres of land in Salt Rock Township. He has since made other purchases, so that the homestead now consists of 240 acres. His residence is on Section 24. Mr. Mahaffey is politically a Democrat, and is an active worker in the interests of his party. In December, 1879, he was elected County Commissioner, and re-elected in 1872. During his official car, he served the people faithfully. ay SAMUEL MORRAL, Sr., was born in Salt Rock Township July 31, 1829. His father, Samuel Morral, was born in Virginia in 1800, and came with his father, William Morral, to Pickaway County, Ohio, when he was quite young. In 1818, his parents moved, bringing him with the rest of their family to Salt Rock Township, where they settled. William Morral, above mentioned, was a Captain under Gen. Hull, during the war of 1812, and his son Samuel, the father of our subject, was a Captain in the general militia, and at the time of his death owned 430 acres of land. He left a widow and five children, four by his first wife, and one by the last. Samuel Morral, the subject of this sketch, was married, February 16, 1853, to Margaret Harmon, of Wyandot County. He had very limited means at the start ; his worldly possessions were comprised in two colts, valued at $125. When twenty-five years of age, he bought fifty-three acres of land in Salt Rock Township, but he gradually increased his landed es- tate, so that he now has 205 acres of land, and also owns one-half interest in the tile works at Morral, at which place he was in the grain business for some years. This town was named in honor of his father. The subject of this sketch has been Treasurer of the township for the past five years, and now fills that office. Himself and wife have a family of nine children, and he is a member of the Church of God.

SAMUEL MORRAL, JR., son of William Morral, and nephew of the preceding, was born in Salt Rock Township in 1854. He owns a farm, where he lives, of 200 acres, and is principally engaged in stock-farming. He was married, in November, 1879, to Jennie King, of this township. In politics, he is a Republican.

ROBERT I. MOUSER, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township in 1845, and is at present one of its substantial citizens. He enlisted in Company M, 'Third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and served as a soldier in the Union army for two years, during the great civil war, and was taken prisoner by the rebels, and confined for five months in the infamous and notorious Andersonville (rebel) Prison. Mr. Mouser is the owner of a fine farm of eighty acres.

HENRY RHOADS (deceased), pioneer farmer, came to.this county in 1825, the same year purchasing 240 acres of land in Salt Rock Township, from the Government. He was married, December 8, 1839, to Elizabeth Ann Crabb. She was a native of Ross County, Ohio. They had a family of six children, and at his death, March 11, 1855, left a farm of 397 acres of land, including other property. His property was valued at $20,000. He was a man of excellent judgment, and of more than ordinary ability. He filled many of the township offices, and was an influential citizen of thé county. His widow married again, and died February 5, 1880. Mr. Rhoads' remains lie in the Union Cemetery, her remains in the Marion Cemetery. .

MILTON H. RHOADS, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township, September 24, 1840. His parents, Henry and Elizabeth. Ann (Crabb) Rhoads, are mentioned elsewhere. Milton H. was reared a farmer, an'occupation that he has always followed. At the breaking-out of the war, in 1861, he enlisted in Company D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served his country as a soldier on the Union side ; he was a Corporal. Mr. Rhoads has one of the best watered farms in the county, consisting of 207 acres, on which he erected, in 1877, à large and commodious residence, the finest in the township. On the place is a never-failing spring or well. He is largely engaged in stockfarming, and makes a specialty of registered Spanish Merino sheep, at which he has been very successful. He has served as Trustee of the township. Is a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Encampment of the G. A. R., and of the Methodist Church. Politically speaking, he is a Republican, and, in a general sense, is one of the most enterprising men of his township.

WILLIAM H. ROBINSON, farmer, was born in Delaware County, Ohio, He is the owner of seventy-three acres of land in Salt Rock Township. He volunteered as a soldier to serve on the Union side, during the civil war, in Company D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and participated in various engagements during the war. He was married, March 7, 1867, to Annah Riley, and they have four children. He is a substantial farmer and good citizen. Politically, he is a Republican, and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Church. He has lived in Marion County since 1851.

AMOS TAYLOR, oneof the substantial men of Salt Rock Township, born December 16, 1836, the son of William and Elizabeth (Davis) Taylor. The former came from Ross County, Ohio, and the Jatter from Maryland when achild. They settled on the Thomas Thompson farm, entering 160 acres, which was subsequently increased to 400 acres. He reared a family of six children, and died in 1858, aged fifty-nine years, and the mother died in 1851, aged forty-two years. Our subject's education was obtained wholly at the district school, and in his younger days was very active, having frequently mowed two and a half acres of grass in a day with a scythe. In 1866, he purchased thirty acres in Wyandot County, Ohio, which he still holds. His home farm consists of ninety acres, inherited by his wife, and ninety-two acres purchased by himself. He owns in all 470 acres, 290 in Wyandot County, Ohio. In 1873, he built his residence. December 1, 1859, he married Miss Sarah Martin, daughter of Robert Martin. This union has been crowned with six children - Louisa, Elizabeth, Cora, Kate, Anna and Hortense, the latter deceased. Mr. Taylor is a genial gentleman, a Republican in spirit and practice, and has been prominent in the township officially.

THOMAS A. THOMPSON is a native of Salt Rock Township, born September 5, 1830; the son of John M. C. and Martha (Alcott) Thompson, the father coming from Virginia and the mother from New Jersey. They settled near where our subject resides about 1820, entering 400 acres, which in later years they have increased to 1,100 acres. Mr. Thoinpson was prominent in the organization of the township, and was:its Treasurer fifteen years. He reared a family of seven children. and died in 1864, aged sixty-six years, while the mother passed away in 1861, aged sixty-four years. Our subject received a common school education. : He inherited from his father's estate 200 acres of land, and several thousand dollars. His farm at present consists of 550 acres. He is a cultivator of good stock generally. Mr. T. has ever been a stanch Republican ; and of the township offices, he has held that of Trustee, Assessor and Treasurer, the latter for five years. March 15, 1865, our subject married Miss Isabel Sharp, daughter of Andrew and Ann (Wirts) Sharp. The names of their five children are Emma, John, Dessie D., Anna and Hayes. His grandmother's people came from Ireland, and his great-grandfather fell in the war of the Revolution, while her great-grandfather died from wounds received ° in the same war. The Wirts came from Switzerland.

HENRY R. WOLFH, deceased, was a worthy pioneer of Grand Township, and settled there in 1835. He was born in Adams County, Penn.. in 1800, and while yet a young man came to Marion County. He had then a wife and three children. His wife died in 1839, and he was married in 1840 to Studia Baker. He died October 23, 1879, leaving a widow and six children in comfortable circumstances. He was much respected as a citizen, and had held at different times nearly all the township offices, and was Justice of the Peace for nine years. He was a member of the Methodist Church. He moved to Salt Rock Township in 1850, where he died at his homestead. His father was a soldier in the Revolutionary war.

NELSON L. WOLFE, farmer, son of Henry R. Wolfe, was born in Marion County March 24, 1837, and has lived in Salt Rock Township since he was thirteen years of age. He was educated in the township schools. He was drafted into the army in 1862, and served a short time as a soldier in the civil war. March 29, 1866, he was married to Eunice Matteson, of Wyandot County, Ohio. On attaining his majority, Mr. Wolfe had very little financia! means, but by industry and good management has become the owner of a fine farm of eighty acres, on which he resides. He is a member of the F. & A. M,