Mercer County, Ohio - Chapter 12: Military Record of Mercer Covnty in the Civil War, 1907 (part 8 of 12)

During his residence at Mendon he was one of the leading- business and public men. He was a member of the first Council of the village and served two terms as mayor, subsequently one term as trustee of Union township, and one term as assessor, these offices coming to him through the Republican party. In the meantime he had somewhat changed his political views and when he was elected justice of the peace, it was on the Populist ticket. On the same ticket he was nominated by the Populists, in 1893, as probate judge, and in his candidacy he was endorsed by the Republicans and the Independent Democrats. His personal popularity had much to do with the successful result, as he had to overcome a Democratic majority of 2,200 votes, which he did by 352 votes. He served three years as probate judge and during this period proved himself an efficient public officer. His administration reflected credit upon him and his constituents. Since returning to private life, he has been engaged in a coal business at Celina, also dealing in plaster, cement, lime and stone. He is also extensively interested in the production of oil.

In 1873 Franklin S. Collins was married to Elvira Murlin, who was born in Auglaize County, Ohio. They have six children, as follows : Maud L., art teacher in the Celina schools; Orel, wife of Dr. E. F. Heffner, of Wapakoneta, Ohio; James Plaine, a dentist; Adna D. ; Cyrus A. and Ray. The family home is situated on East Livingston street, Celina.

Mr. Collins is a Mason and a Knight of Pythias, and belongs also to the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association, the Grange and to social organizations of Celina. He has always been a most active citizen and all matters of moment to the village receive his attention and he can be depended upon to give support to undertakings which promise to benefit the community.

Mrs. Sarah Ann Beauchamp

Mrs. Sarah Ann Beauchamp, widow of the late Martin Luther Beauchamp, who was a prominent agriculturist of Franklin township, is a lady who is well known and highly esteemed throughout Franklin township. She resides on her fine farm of 190 acres, which is situated in section 31. Mrs. Beauchamp was born in Mercer County, Ohio, February 25, 1839, and is a daughter of John J. and Elizabeth (Peck) Johnston.

The grandparents of Mrs. Beauchamp were Stephen and Anna (Armstrong) Johnston, who came to America from Ireland when their sop John was five years of age. They settled first in New Brunswick whence they subsequently removed to Ohio and located in Shelby County, finally removing to Franklin township, Mercer County. They had these children : Sarah, who' married John Wilson - both now deceased; Ann, deceased, who was the wife of John Alexander; Jane, deceased, who was the wife of John McGee; Christopher, deceased, whose wife was Mary Peck ; Stephen, who married Susanna Pence and resides in Shelby County; and John J., the father of Mrs. Beauchamp.

It was in Shelby County, Ohio, that John J. Johnston married Elizabeth Peck. Afterwards they became pioneer residents of Mercer County. They had eight children, namely: Sarah Ann, the subject of this sketch; Samuel P., a resident of Shelby County, who married Martha Campbell ; Barbara, who married Finley Wilson, and lives in Shelby County; Jennie, residing in Shelby County, who is the widow of James Weymer, who died June 30, 1906; Mary, who married Joseph A. Wilson and lives in Miami County; Stephen T., who married Ella Davis and lives at Piqua, Ohio; Martha, wife of Reuben G. Singles, a grocer at Piqua, Ohio; and Emma, who married Charles A. Hetzler and lives at Sidney, Ohio. Samuel P. Johnston served as a 100-day soldier in the Civil War. The father of Mrs. Beauchamp died aged 81 years and the mother, aged 84 years.

Mrs. Beauchamp was reared in Mercer County and was educated in the district schools. On March 4, 1858, she was united in marriage with Martin Luther Beauchamp, who was borp in Delaware County, Ohio, and after a long and useful life died January 29, 1878.

founders of Montezuma and was known as "Dr. Beauchamp." William Beauchamp was of French extraction but was born in North Carolina. Later he left Montezuma and went to live with his daughter near Columbus. Of his large family, the names preserved are as follows: Mrs. Levina Thomas; Mrs. Ann Vickers; Sarah, who married Frank Miller; Mrs. Emily Lacey; Willis; Asa; Noah; Wesley, and William. Wesley Beauchamp married Jane Davis in Delaware County and later moved to Franklin township, Mercer County. Of their children, Martin Luther was the third eldest, the others being as follows : William, Monroe, Isabel, Catherine, Cordelia and Calista.

Martin Luther Beauchamp was a farmer all his life and was well and favorably known throughout Mercer County. A part of the farm came to Mrs. Beauchamp from her father and the remainder of it was purchased by her husband. It is a valuable property - 190 acres all in one tract. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Beauchamp, as follows : Laura, who died in girlhood; John, who married Nevada Bennett and has five children - Rae, Reed, Ross, Ralph and Worth; Wesley W., a graduate of Starling Medical College, at Columbus, who married Hattie White and is a practicing physician at Rockford; Elizabeth, who married Gordon Botkin, resides at St. Marys and has one child, Lowell; Hortense, who died in 1900, aged 28 years; Herbert K., a graduate of the Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis, who served as an interne in the Fort Wayne Hospital and is now practicing at Phoenix, Arizona - he married Maude Adams.

Mrs. Beauchamp is a member of the Disciples' Church at Montezuma. Her husband was also a member of the same church. The male members of the family are all Republicans.

Mrs. Beauchamp still resides in the beautiful old home where she has lived since her marriage. She has witnessed many changes in the neighborhood in all these years and many of her old friends have passed away, but health and vigor remain with her and she finds much enjoyment as the center of an affectionate family of children and grandchildren.

John Bohmann

John Bohmann, whose fine farm of 92 acres, situated in section 31, Marion township, attracts attention on account of its excellent improvements and good cultivation, has been a resident here for the past 17 years. Mr. Bohmann was born in Franklin County, Indiana, September 29, 1856, and is a son of Joseph and Bernardina (Kessens) Bohmann.

crossed the great ocean to America. They had little means and these were exhausted by the time they reached Wheeling, (West) Virgina, but Mr. Bohmann found employment there in a glass factory, and they remained there three years. It was the father's desire, however, to establish a home in the country and secure farming land, and as soon as he was able he turned his steps in the direction of the fertile lands he had heard of in Indiana. By! steamboat the father and sons reached Cincinnati and there the boys went to school for a year. By that time the father had secured a farm in Franklin County, Indiana, near Oldenburg. This farm was in the midst of a green forest and it took hard work and the united efforts of Mr. Bohmann and his sons to clear up a farm. On this farm the father died in 1874, when 74 years of age. He had prospered and in recognition of his sons' early services he bought each of them*a farm. In Indiana he married for his third wife, Mary Teesing, who still survives at the age of 94 years. One son, Frederick, was born to his second marriage, but no children were born to his third marriage.

Joseph Bohmann, the eldest son of Gerhard Bohmann, was eight years old when he accompanied his father to America. He lived in Indiana from the time they located there until his death, in July, 1901. He was married (first), in Indiana, to Bernardina Kessens, who died when Joseph was three years old. The latter is the only survivor of the three children of this marriage, his brothers Theodore and Herman dying when children. The father married (second) Elizabeth Hannakamp, and to this union were born five children, as follows : Mary, who married John Wanstrath and lives in Decatur County, Indiana ; George, who married Elizabeth Wendeln and lives in Granville township; Catherine, who married Henry Wendeln and lives in Shelby County, Ohio ; Theodore, who married Anna Hoyng and lives in Decatur County, Indiana ; and Anthony, also married, who is a resident of Indianapolis. The mother of these children died in January, 1903, and the father died in 1898.

Joseph Bohmann remained on the home farm until he was 20 years of age, when he left Indiana, thinking to better his prospects in Ohio, and located in Auglaize County, where he engaged with a farmer, Benjamin Melcher, for whom he worked for three years. After his marriage, in 1881, he rented the farm on which he was working and remained operating it for some eight years. In 1888, in partnership with Henry Wendeln, his brother-inlaw, he purchased the sawmill then owned by Frank Stineman, and the partners conducted a very successful business for over seven years. During this period Mr. Bohmann did all the contracting and buying for the firm. In Tuly, t895> he withdrew from the business and again turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, having, in the meantime, purchased his present farm from Charles Stineman. It was not a very attractive appearing place when he set- tied on it, being covered with unsightly, old stumps which gave to it a very desolate air. Mr. Bohmann possessed foresight enough, however, to see how to turn the stumps to good account and they provided the fuel for many a roaring winter fire ; the mellow soil from which they were removed proved the most fertile spots in his whole domain. It took many years to convert the place into the orderly, well-cultivated farm that now renders an ample return for all the time, labor and expense devoted to its improvement, but a very valuable body of land has resulted. Mr. Bohmann carries on farming and stock-raising. He has a comfortable, seven-room, frame dwelling, fitted with all those conveniences which make for ease and happy living, while his substantial barns and other farm buildings indicate a productive harvest.

On November 21, 1881, Mr. Bohmann was married (first) to Mary Wendeln, who died in September, 1895, and who was a daughter of Frederick Wendeln. To this union six children were born, four on the farm first occupied and two on the present farm. They are as follows: Frederick, who married Mary Synck and has one child, Hedwick ; Anna, who married Andrew Schwietermann and has one child, Mary ; and William, Rose, George and Joseph, all of whom live at home.

In October, 1896, Mr. Bohmann was married (second) to Catherine Synck, a daughter of Henry and Catherine Synck, who live at Cranberry Prairie. Mrs. Bohmann was born in Mercer County, but her parents came from Germany. Five children have been born to this marriage, as follows : Henry, Eleanor, Edward, John and Millie. Mrs. Bohmann was born on April 24, 1878, being the elder of her parents' two children. Her sister Mary married Frederick Bohmann, the eldest son of our subject. Mr. Bohmann and family are valued members of St. John's Catholic Church. In politics he is a Democrat.

Otto Rentzsch, Jr

Otto Rentzsch, Jr., one of Celina's prominent young business men and leading dry goods merchants, was born in Charleston, West Virginia, in 1877, and is a son of Otto Rentzsch, Sr., who for many years was one of Celina's influential business men.

Otto Rentzsch, Jr., spent his boyhood days in Ohio and Indiana, finally locating in Celina, on March 25, 1899. Here be engaged in the dry goods business with his father, under the firm name of Otto Rentzsch & Son, until April 1, 1906, when the senior partner retired from the business, having been actively engaged in business for nearly half a century. Otto Rentzsch, Sr., is now a resident of New Castle, Indiana, where he is engaged in looking after his real estate interests. Since his father's withdrawal from the busi- ness, our subject has been sole proprietor of the business, and is considered one of Celina's most prosperous and energetic young business men.

Mr. Rentzsch was married in 1902 to Katherine Baumgardner, a daughter of Rev. Stewart Baumgardner, who was pastor of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church in 1899-1900. Fraternally, Mr. Rentzsch is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge at Celina.

John William Ridenour, M. D., who is practicing medicine at Mendon, was born March 20, 1868, in Milford township, Defiance County, Ohio, and is a son of Augustus L. and Elizabeth (Stahl) Ridenour.

The paternal grandparents of Dr. Ridenour were John and Susanna (Hilbert) Ridenour, the former of whom was born February 14, 1807, and the latter in October, 1811, in Jefferson County, Ohio. Later they moved to Wayne County, and in 1844 to Defiance County, where John Ridenour purchased a farm and lived upon it until his death, in i860. His widow survived until 1898, dying in her 87th year. They had nine children, namely: Alfred, who died in 1899; Augustus L. ; Rebecca, who married Jacob Lane and resides at Williams Center, four miles from Bryan, Ohio; Loman, who is a farmer in Defiance County; Martha, who married Aaron Sellers and resides on a farm in Defiance County; David and Daniel, both farmers in Defiance County ; and two that died in infancy.

Augustus L. Ridenour, father of the Doctor, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, and was three years old when his parents removed to Defiance County. His birth took place on July 3, 1841, in Canaan township, near Canaan Center, some eight miles from Wooster, but his life has been spent in Defiance County. On November 29, 1864, he married Elizabeth Stahl, who was born July 3, 1840, near Jewett, Harrison County, Ohio, and is a daughter of William Stahl. The other members of her father's family were : Sarah, deceased ; Maria, wife of James Shambaugh, of Harrison County; and James, formerly of Harrison County, but now a resident of Hicksville, Defiance County. Augustus L. Ridenour and wife had four children, namely: Loma, wife of Walter Battershell, of Defiance County; John William; Anna, at home; and Charles, who married Stella McCullough and is the home farmer.

Until he was 16 years of age, John W. Ridenour attended the district schools, then spent one term in the township schools, after which he entered the normal school at Fayette, Ohio. He spent the succeeding two years teaching district schools and during this time completed a business course at Fayette, and in the fall of 1888 he taught a private school at Greensburg,

Pennsylvania. In 1889 he returned to Middlepoint, where he attended school and at the same time taught some of the classes and thus prepared himself for Thiel College, where he was graduated in the class of 1894. In the fall of 1896 he entered the Eclectic Medical Institute at Cincinnati and was graduated in the class of 1899. Dr. Ridenour settled first at Edgerton, removing one year later to Hicksville, where he continued in active practice until the spring of 1906, when he came ho Mendon. In 1901 he received the degree of A. M. from Thiel College.

On June 20, 1894, Dr. Ridenour was married to Sarah Almeda Avery, a daughter of John and Salome (Foster) Avery. Mrs. Ridenour was born, and reared at Middlepoint, Van Wert County. They have one daughter, Florence Gulia.

Dr. Ridenour is associated with a number of medical organizations. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias, and was a charter member of the lodge at Middlepoint, and of the National Protective Legion at Hicksville.

J. H. Windker, one of the representative men and prominent farmers of Butler township, who resides on his finely-improved farm of 21 1 40-100 acres, which is situated in section 31, was born September 2, 1838, in Germany. His parents were John Henry and Elizabeth Windker.

The parents of Mr. Windker were born, reared and married in Germany and emigrated to the United States when he was about 10 years of age. They left their country in September, 1848, and landed from the sailing vessel, at New Orleans, in the middle of December. They came north to Cincinnati, which they reached just after Christmas, where the father found work as a laborer, although he had been sick on the voyage and continued in poor health for some time. Three of his children, Herman, Bernard and Catherine, died in December, and in January, 1849, his wife died. In 1849 Cincinnati passed through the great cholera epidemic and both John Henry Windker and his son, J. H., contracted the disease, but both survived. Mr. Windker remembers that he was not able to walk down stairs until the 4th of the following July. During the four years that his father remained in Cincinnati, J. H. spent nine months of the time with an uncle in Tennessee, but the death of this relative caused his return to his father at Cincinnati. In 1853 J°hn Henry Windker came to Mercer County and bought 40 acres of land two miles east of the present home, in Butler township, and in the '70's he came to this farm in section 31. Here the father of J. H. Windker died, February 22,

On April 18, 1861, Mr. Windker was married to Gertrude Lennartz, who is a daughter of John Henry and Catherine Lennartz. Mrs. Windker was born in Germany and came to America in 1848, landing at New York. Her parents lived for a time at Cincinnati and came to Mercer County in 1849., Mi. and Mrs. Windker have had eight children, namely: Elizabeth, who is the wife of Barney Dues, a prominent farmer; Catherine, who is the wife of John Vagedes; Henry; Mary, residing at Celina; Anna, who is the wife of Frank Strietholdt; Gertrude, who died aged 34 years; Pauline, who married William Dues and died at the age of 23 years, leaving one child, William; and Herman, who died aged three years.

After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Windker lived for several years on the old home place. In 1875 he moved to his present farm which he has greatly improved, where he carries on general farming and stock-raising. He served as township trustee for many years, was a member of the School Board for nine years and for several years its president, and has been district clerk. He is one of the leading members of St. Mary's Catholic Church at Philothea, in which he served for many years as church clerk and treasurer.

Bernard Birkmeyer

Bernard Birkmeyer, a representative farmer of Butler township, who owns a fine farm of 90 acres, situated in section 22, was born at St. Johns,; Marion township, Mercer County, Ohio, on July 1, 1868, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Hausfield) Birkmeyer.

John Birkmeyer, the grandfather of Bernard Birkmeyer, was born in Germany and emigrated with his family to America, settling in Huron County, Ohio, where he died in 1846. After his death his widow removed with her children to Mercer County, and died in the house now occupied by her grandson, Bernard. Joseph Birkmeyer was born at St. Alphonse, Huron County, and was 12 years of age when his father died. In 1871 he removed from Marion to Butler township, Mercer County, settling on land but partly improved but which he developed through his industry, into a fine farm. He married Elizabeth Hausfield and they had 10 children, the survivors being: Clemens, Bernard and Henry. The mother died here June 11, 1902, and was survived by the father until July 10, 1904. The latter left an ample fortune, and a part of it is represented in the present excellent farm of our subject, and the substantial brick residence which was built in 1878.

Bernard Birkmeyer was reared in Butler township and attended the country schools. When about 23 years of age he started to learn the wagonmaking trade with Frank Martz at Coldwater, and after serving an apprenticeship of three years worked for some six years at this trade, gaining the reputation of being a first-class machinist. Since then he has devoted his attention to general farming and stock-raising.

On November 3, 1897, Mr. Birkmeyer was married to Louisa Desch, a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Desch, and a granddaughter of John Desch, who was an early German settler in Mercer County. The parents of Mrs. Birkmeyer now reside at Dayton. The brothers and sisters of Mrs. Desch were: Louisa, Frances, Bertha, Matilda, Rosa, Edward, Clarence, Albert and Robert, the two last named being deceased.

Mr. and Mrs. Birkmeyer have three children, namely: Eleonora, Joseph Lawrence and Clemens Edward. The family belong to Holy Trinity Catholic Church at Coldwater, in which Mr. Birkmeyer is one of the wardens. He belongs to the Knights of St. John.

George Garman

George Garman, a well-known citizen and prosperous farmer of Jefferson township, owns a 105-acre farm of valuable land, 65 of which, where the home is located, is in section 2, township 6 south, and 40 in section 32, township 5 south, both in range 2 east. He was born in Hopewell township, Mercer County, Ohio, July 24, 1857, and is a son of Rolandus and Lena (Myers) Garman.

Frederick Garman, the paternal grandfather, was born in Germany, emigrated to America, settled first in Pennsylvania, and later came to Mercer County, where he was a very early settler. He entered 240 acres from the government, which he developed into fine farming land. Grandfather Myers also came from Germany and became the owner of 140 acres of land in Hopewell township, Mercer County. ' Rolandus Garman, father of George, was born in Pennsylvania, but his wife was of German birth. Of their children, two sons and one daughter survive, viz. : Stephen, who is a farmer of Hopewell township; Rebecca, who is the wife of James Monroe, of Jefferson township; and George.

George Garman resided in Hopewell township until he was 18 years of age. He lost his mother when but eight years old and his stepmother was killed in a cyclone in Jefferson township, on May 14, 1886. His father, who still survives and is in his 80th year, resides in Jefferson township, where he purchased land in 1875. With the exception of two years, during which he conducted a grocery at Celina, Mr. Garman has been a farmer all his life and has resided on his present farm ever since his marriage. He carries on general farming and raises some very good stock.

On March 1, 1878, Mr. Garman was married to Sarah Lincoln, a daughter of Alfred Lincoln, who died during the Civil War. They have four children, viz. : Alfred Leroy, a bookkeeper at Warren, Indiana, who married Vista Marsch; William E. ; Stephen; and Ethel Zenobia.

Mr. Garman is an enterprising citizen of Jefferson township and takes an active interest in the public schools and in the improvement of agricultural conditions throughout this section.

Anton Streacker

Anton Streacker, one of the substantial farmers of Butler township, residing on a farm of 80 acres located in section 34, was born in Shelby County, Ohio, near Egypt, Auglaize County, May 19, 1872, and is a son of Henry and Mary (Brandvine) Streacker.

Henry Streacker, who is a native of Germany, came to America with his father, Gerke Streacker, when four years old. The latter settled in Aug'laize County, where Henry was reared. Henry was married at the Streacker home place, where he lived for 50 years and reared nine children, six of whom are living. He now resides at Berlin, Shelby County.

Anton Streacker was reared in Shelby County, where he continued to live until March 6, 1906, when be moved to his present farm, which he had purchased December 23, 1905, of Henry Hoyng. He has made a great many changes on the place, an important one being the erection of a large barn and other necessary outbuildings in 1906. In the spring of 1896 Mr. Streacker was married to Sophia Zacaarias, a daughter of Christian Zacaarias, and they have five children : Martha, Annie, Bernard, Bertha and Leonard. Mr. Streacker is a member of the Catholic Church.

Frank C. Stark

Frank C. Stark, one of Celina's active and enterprising business men, leading in the line of gentlemen's furnishings, was born in Celina in 1874 and is a son of John Stark.

John Stark was born in Germany, but was a citizen of Ohio for many years and during a large number of these was engaged in business at Celina, where he died in 1884, respected by all who knew him.

Frank C. Stark attended school until he was 13 years old and then became a clerk for H. F. Juneman & Company, dealers in gentlemen's furnishings. He learned the business pretty thoroughly before entering the employ of Betz & Meyer, at Celina, with whom he remained for a little over 10 years. In 1900 the firm of Dysert, Howick & Stark was formed, which continued for three and a half years, when Dysert & Stark succeeded and this style continued until June, 1905, when Mr. Stark bought out Mr. Dysert's interest and since then the business has been conducted under the firm name of Frank C. Stark.

In 1904 Mr. Stark was married to Julia Rentzsch, who is a daughter of Otto Rentzsch, Sr., who was a well-known merchant of Celina, now residing at New Castle, Indiana. Mr. Stark is a member of the Catholic Church. He belongs to St. Joseph's Society and to the German Independent Aid Society. Mr. Stark stands very high in the estimation of his fellow-citizens, both as a business man and as a citizen.

James L. Morrow

James L. Morrow, justice of the peace and prominent citizen of Hopewell township, owns two fine farms in this township which aggregate 200 acres of land. He was born February 22, 1858, in Mercer County, Ohio, and is a son of William and Mary (Wilson) Morrow.

William Morrow and wife were both born in Ohio ; the former still survives but the latter died in 1901. William Morrow came from Perry County, Ohio, to Mercer County and settled about 1841 in Hopewell township, where he has spent his life and is now one of the most highly respected citizens. For a number of years he served as a justice of the peace, was also township assessor and township treasurer and is probably as well known as any man in the township. He has always supported the Democratic party. Of his children, the six survivors are: Jennie, widow of the late Dr. A. J. Lininger, of Celina ; John Henry, of Hopewell township ; James L., of this sketch ; Louisa, wife of Jacob M. Weaver, of Hopewell township; George W., of Celina; and Thomas C.

James L. Morrow was reared in Hopewell township where he obtained his primary education. Later he attended the normal school at Valparaiso, Indiana, and subsequently became a teacher. For 14 consecutive years he taught winter schools in his township. In the spring of 1892 he removed to Celina, where he embarked in a mercantile business which he continued until 1898, returning then to Hopewell township and settling on the farm he now occupies, which is located in section 14.

Mr. Morrow was united in marriage with Dellie Weaver, a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth Weaver, the latter of whom is deceased. Mr. Weaver still survives, in his 80th year, and is one of the most venerable and highly respected citizens of his neighborhood. Of the eight children born to our subject and wife, the seven survivors are: Daisy, Minnie, Maud, Russell, Dillon, Marie and Glen. Letitia is deceased.

Mr. Morrow is now serving in his second term as justice of the peace, having given satisfaction to all concerned in his first term. Politically he is a Democrat, like his father, and has always taken an active part in campaign work. He is a member and one of the board of trustees of the United) Brethren Church. Mr. Morrow is a very busy man, having business interests of various kinds, at Celina in particular. He is interested in the marble works in that city and he is also secretary of the Mercer County Mutual Telephone Company.

W. A. J. McDaniel, who is at the head of a large furniture and undertaking establishment at Celina, established here in 1884, was born in Lima, Ohio, in 1861 and is a son of M. McDaniel, who was engaged in the furniture and undertaking business practically all his life. M. McDaniel died in 1901.

The subject of this sketch lived in Troy, Ohio, until about seven years, of age, his parents having moved there from Lima in his infancy. Hiis parents afterward moved to Greenville, Ohio, where he was reared to manhood, learning his present business of his father, who had a furniture and undertaking establishment. After attaining his majority, he became a member of the firm of M. McDaniel & Son. In 1884 the firm moved to Celina and engaged in the same business and since 1885 it has been owned and under the charge of W. A. J. McDaniel. Mr. McDaniel was assisted in the undertaking department by Asa W. Meister until August, 1905, when the latter became a partner in the undertaking business. Our subject is an Odd Fellow and Knight of Pythias.

John Beiersdorfer

John Beiersdorfer, one of the progressive and enterprising business men of Celina, who has met with success in several lines of activity, was born in Auglaize County, Ohio, August 20, 1849, and was there reared and educated.

Auglaize and Shelby counties until 1888, when he joined his brother Philip in the meat business at Celina; together they ran a butcher shop and also engaged in the buying and selling of live-stock. They continued in this business until 1903, when our subject opened a grocery store and carried that on for 18 months. Mr. Beiersdorfer has also been interested in brick manufacturing, in dealing in timber lands and in oil production. He has been instrumental in opening up some 22 oil-wells. He was also one of the promoters of the canning factory at this point, which has become such an important industry. In fact he has been one of the active, enthusiastic men needed in every community to open the eyes of the residents to the business opportunities within reach. He has served on the Village Council much to the advantage of the municipality and takes a lively interest in all public matters.

On October 3, 1873, Mr. Beiersdorfer was married to Mary Brueninger, of Shelby County, Ohio, and they have eight children, viz. : Cornelia, wife of A. J. Wolf, of Dayton, Ohio; Elizabeth, wife of John Beckman, a merchant at Celina; Charles, a jeweler at Atlanta, Georgia; Albert, who is employed oil the Pacific Coast; Edwin B. and William B., of Dayton; and Paul and Ernest, at home. , j

Mr. Beiersdorfer is a member of the Catholic Church. He belongs to the Knights of Columbus and for the past 13 years has been president of the German Independent Aid Society, an important charitable organization of Celina.

Preston Wiley Fishbaugh

Preston Wiley Fishbaugh, M. D., who is engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery at Mendon, was born on a farm in Washington township, near Erastus, Mercer County, Ohio, February 22, 1864, and is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Morton) Fishbaugh.

The Fishbaugh family was established in Fairfield County, Ohio, by the grandfather of Dr. Fishbaugh, Mordecai Fishbaugh, who was a native of Baltimore, Maryland, and was a blacksmith by trade. He married a Miss McDonald and they reared a large family, many of whom still reside in Fairfield County.

Samuel Fishbaugh, father of Dr. Fishbaugh, was born in Fairfield County, in 1829, and located in Mercer County in 1863, purchasing 160 acres of land, which he still owns, although for the past 10 years he has been a resident of Bellefontaine, Logan County. In Fairfield County he married Elizabeth Morton, who died in 1878, aged 42 years. They had seven children, the three eldest born in Fairfield County, as follows : Emma, wife of Samuel Cormack, residing at Erastus ; Anthony, an attorney and surveyor, living at Celina ; Laura, wife of Moore McMillan, of Xenia, Ohio; M. Byron, a graduate of the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Baltimore, formerly a medical practitioner at Coldwater and St. Henry, who is now practicing at Wabash; Francis Mahlon, a traveling salesman, residing at Toledo; Preston Wiley; and Ann Isabel, who was accidentally killed at the age of seven years.

Preston W. Fishbaugh attended the normal school at Portland, Indiana, for two years and then spent a year at the Ohio Normal University at Ada. The next five years he spent in the educational field in Mercer County, in the meantime reading medicine, and in 1890 he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Baltimore, from which he was graduated in the class of 1893. In the spring of that year he located at Mendon and here he has continued in the practice of his profession, building up a large and satisfactory practice by his skill and faithful attention to his patients.

Dr. Fishbaugh was married on August 25, 1894, to Ida May Schenck, a daughter of Rev. Daniel and Mary (Chillcote) Schenck, of Decatur, Indiana. They have four children, viz. : Paul Schenck, Anthony Wayne, Mary Belle and Grace Lenora.

Dr. Fishbaugh keeps closely in touch with the advance of professional thought and is a member of the Mercer County Medical Society and the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association.

Edward Landfair

Edward Landfair, who for six years served the village of Celina as mayor, is one of Mercer County's prominent citizens. He was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1845, an<f was about six years old when his parents moved to Washington township, Mercer County, settling on a farm in the woods.

Edward remained at home, giving assistance to his father in clearing up the farm, until he was about 17 years of age, when he went back to Fairfield County and for a time engaged there in farm work. In the meantime he took advantage of every opportunity to secure an education and when about 20 years of age returned to Mercer County and for a time taught school during the winters and attended school as much as possible, during the summers. He thus became very well known and in 1870, when he came to Celina, he was invited to take charge of the village schools. During the four years that he remained at their head, they made great advances. He was too intelligent a man not to be interested also1 in public affairs and became something of a politician. In 1868 he was appointed a member of the County Board of School Examiners, a position he held for 17 consecutive years. In 1871 Mr.

Landfair was elected recorder of Mercer County and served in that position for six years. In 1881 he was elected clerk of the courts of Mercer County and assumed the duties of the office in 1882, which office he held for six years, being twice reelected. From 1899 until 1903 he was mayor of Celina. Since retiring from public life, Mr. Landfair has been in the loan and investment business.

In 1868 Mr. Landfair was married to Adarene Blake, who died in April, 1903, leaving one son, Robert B. The latter was educated in the schools at Celina and Lexington, then studied law, was graduated from the Cincinnati Law School and was admitted to the bar before the Supreme Court of Ohio at Columbus, all this before he had reached his majority. He is one of the successful young law practitioners at Celina.

Henry Fullenkamp

Henry Fullenkamp, one of the leading farmers and solid, substantial citizens of Marion township, who resides on a fine farm of 240 acres in section 2, and owns another tract of 40 acres, belongs to one of the old pioneer families of this section of the State. Henry Fullenkamp was born November 4, 1848, in Jackson township, Auglaize County, Ohio, on the farm on which his father had settled in the woods, and is a son of Nicholas and Mary Adaline (Vonderhar) Fullenkamp.

The Fullenkamp family is of German origin and it was established in America by the grandparents of Henry Fullenkamp, who crossed the Atlantic Ocean and penetrated into what was then a wilderness, settling in Jackson township, on the county line of Auglaize County, Ohio, where they died. The name of the grandfather was Herman Fullenkamp. They had three children, namely: Nicholas; Henry; and Elizabeth, who became the wife of Henry Bertke.

Nicholas Fullenkamp, who was 15 years of age when he accompanied his parents to Ohio, spent the remainder of his life in Auglaize County, where he died in 1891. He married Mary Adaline Vonderhar, who came to America with her cousin, from Hanover, Germany. She was born May 20, 1826, and still resides on the old farm. Nicholas Fullenkamp and wife had 10 children, as follows: Catherine, now deceased, who married (first) Clement Smith, and (second) Henry Bisick ; Henry; Joseph, who married Mary Knapke; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of Jacob Brown ; an infant, deceased ; Barney, who married (first) Anna Brown, and (second) Mrs. Fisher; John, who married Mary Bruns; Nicholas, who married Mary Hausfeld and lives on the home

Capt. Samuel A. Nickerson Mrs. Lucinda M. Nickerson And Representative Citizens 589

Henry Fullenkamp was reared in Jackson township, Auglaize County, on the home farm and had few educational advantages as the country was little settled. He remained at home, assisting in the clearing and developing of the farm until his marriage, when his father gave him 80 acres. To this he subsequently added 160 acres, which he bought from Peter Barnhard, and still later he acquired 40 more acres, which he bought from the Schrage estate. His land is under a fine state of cultivation, improved methods of farming being the rule and large returns are realized. The pleasant farm house is beautifully shaded from the heats of summer and protected from the winds of winter by a large orchard situated in front.

On August 21, 1873, Mr. Fullenkamp was married to 'Mary Hulskamp, who is a daughter of Dietrich and Elizabeth (Tangeman) Hulskamp. The parents of Mrs. Fullenkamp were both born in Germany, the mother being two years old when she was brought to America. Mr. and Mrs. Fullenkamp have six children, namely: Elizabeth, who married Frederick Voskuhl, resides in Recovery township and has had seven children - John, Frank, Vincent (deceased), Catherine, Mary, Joseph and Edward; Anna, who married Henry Dwenger, lives at St. Rosa and has two children - Elizabeth and Mary ; Catherine, Avho married Henry Buddendick, lives at St. Peter and has two children - Anna and Mary; John H., born February 10, 1882; Bernard, born December 27, 1884; and Joseph, born April 8, 1886. The three sons work for their father on the home farm. - They are fine specimens of young manhood. The family belong to the Catholic Church; the sons are members of St. Alosius' Society and the father, of St. Joseph's Society.

Capt. Samuel A. Nickerson

Capt. Samuel A. Nickerson, formerly county treasurer of Mercer County, and the well-known proprietor of "Lake View Farm," a body of 80 acres of excellent land in Jefferson township, situated in sections 4 and 5, township 6, range 3 east, is also' a surviving officer of the great Civil War, in which he distinguished himself by gallant service. Captain Nickerson was born in Preble County, Ohio, April 17, 1834, and is a son of Joseph Colby and Anna (Everman) Nickerson.

The Nickerson family is of English extraction and its American founders came to Massachusetts Bay Colony as early as 1637. The old home seems to have been in the vicinity of Norwich, England, and from there came one

William Nickerson, who landed at Boston, June 20, 1637, after a stromy crossing of the Atlantic in a frail little sailing vessel of the time. Afterwards he bought land of the Indians in what is now Chatham, which forms the elbow of Cape Cod, and from that point noted for its fishing and ship building have spread the sturdy family of Nickersons of which our subject is a most worthy member.

From the coast of Massachusetts the Nickerson sons adventured north and a branch found a home in Maine and there Rev. Joshua Nickerson, the grandfather of Captain Nickerson, was born, as was also his son, Joseph Colby Nickerson. Rev. Joshua Nickerson served in the Revolutionary War under General Washington at Valley Forge.

About 1815 Joseph Colby Nickerson came to Ohio and settled near Eaton, in Preble County, where he entered 80 acres of land. He had already had a somewhat adventurous life, having served in his youth as a sailor and also worked along the coast as a ship carpenter. He had also served as a soldier in the War of 1812, under Generals Wilkinson and Harrison, and participated in the battles of Shady Four Corners and Stone Mill, along the Canadian border. After settling permanently in Preble County he worked as a carpenter and millwright and built the first mill and the first jail in that county. About 1837 or 1838 he brought his family to Mercer County, Ohio, our subject being then about three years old, and settled in Recovery township, where he entered land on the Wabash River at the point called the Second Crossing. In Preble County he married Anna Everman, a daughter of Samuel Everman. Her only brother, Philip Everman, was in General Hall's army at the surrender of Detroit.

At the little settlement of Second Crossing, Samuel A. Nickerson was reared and his education was secured in the neighboring district schools. He was a young man of 26 years of age when the call came for loyal soldiers to' go out to defend the Nation's flag and he was one of the first to respond, entering Company I, 17th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and served as a private through the three months of his first enlistment, passing the most of this period at Camp Anderson, Lancaster, Ohio. He returned home only to volunteer under Captain Stone and went with his company to Lima, where he was appointed an orderly sergeant and was sent home to recruit. While engaged in this duty the regiment went on to Cincinnati, where Sergeant Nickerson later reported with his volunteers and the company was assigned to the 118th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf.

On the reorganization of the regiment, Sergeant Nickerson was promoted to 2nd lieutenant of Company I, receiving this commission on August 13, 1862. On February 1, 1864, he was promoted to 1st lieutenant of Company B, 118th Regt., Ohio Vol. Inf., and on October 12, 1864, he was made captain of, Company B. His honorable discharge was received April 15, 1865, at Mosely Hall, North Carolina, on account of ill health brought on by exposure and the vicissitudes of a soldier's life. During the siege of Atlanta he was very seriously injured, and on numerous occasions his life was in momentary jeopardy for hours at a time. Captain Nickerson's army record is that of as brave a soldier as ever wore the Union blue, his rapid promotion giving testimony to this fact. Among the many adventures in which he was prominently concerned, the complete routing of the Confederate raider Caldwell was a typical one and may be briefly related here. Extracts are made use of from a Celina publication many years after the events took place.

"The notorious Jim Caldwell of the Rebel army was in the habit of visiting every few weeks, a place known as Morris Mills, in the upper part of Campbell County, North Carolina, where he obtained recruits, horses, supplies, etc., a regular correspondence and communication being kept up with sympathizers in the border counties of Kentucky." As a result, Lieutenant Nickerson with 13 men was detailed to capture Caldwell and to break up his line of communication. In referring, years after, to this event, Captain Nickerson said : "After all these years, looking back over the many hard campaigns which we passed through during the war, I can think of none fraught with more danger or that produced better results according to the number engaged in it. We pursued, met and defeated a force twice our size and advanced so far into the enemy's country that our entire force could have been surrounded and cut to pieces. As to the fatigue we had endured, the first night out we had moved over 20 miles on foot, the greater portion of the time on the double quick. For two days and two nights we were almost continually in the saddle. As to the results, it not only drove Caldwell out of Kentucky, but put an end to the Rebels sending spies through our lines into Covington and Cincinnati to spy around General Burnside's headquarters. It also broke up their mail routes from Cincinnati into the Rebel lines, stopping the sending of supplies and recruits into Humphrey Marshall's army and it effectually quieted that part of Kentucky."

The capture of Caldwell was not accomplished, as he fled at the first approach of Lieutenant Nickerson's brave men, who, however, captured three other prisoners, two of whom were officers of the Confederate Army, viz. : the notorious Major McGraw and Capt. William Corbin, on whose persons were found contraband goods and letters to the enemy. Strange as it may seem, neither Lieutenant Nickerson nor his men ever received any special recognition from the government for one of the bravest raids ever made by that command and one which had far-reaching consequences.

Lucinda Myers, a daughter of George and Eliza Myers, old residents of Mercer County. Mrs. Nickerson's great-grandfather, John Myers, was a Hessian soldier who fought in the Revolutionary War in the British Army, having been pressed into the service ; at his earliest opportunity he deserted and afterwards settled in Hamilton County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Nickerson have no children of their own, but they have reared George and Savella Myers, a nephew and niece, as a son and daughter.

For a number of years Captain Nickerson resided at Fort Recovery and while living there he carried on a livery business. He was also made justice of the peace and filled this office for 12 consecutive years to the satisfaction of all concerned. While residing at Fort Recovery, he also was engaged in a drug business and was one of the leading citizens of the village. Politically he is a stanch Democrat and it was on the Democratic ticket that he was elected treasurer of Mercer County, in which office he served for four years, proving a capable official, devoted to the interests of his fellow-citizens. After retiring from that office, he purchased his present farm near Celina, to which he gave the pleasant name of "Lake View," and here he is surrounded by all that is calculated to make the evening of life a compensation for all the hardships or disappointments which may have gone before. He is active in the Grand Army of the Republic and is president of the Mercer County Pioneer Association. Portraits of Captain and Mrs. Nickerson accompany this sketch.

Philip Beiersdorfer

Philip Beiersdorfer, one of Celina's substantial men and leading business citizens, who has offices on West Livingston street, is identified with the grain and elevator interests, a large creamery enterprise and has long been a successful buyer and shipper of stock. Mr. Beiersdorfer was born March 31, 1853, in Auglaize County, Ohio, and was mainly reared and educated there.

Mr. Beiersdorfer learned the butchering business and was engaged in that several years prior to moving to Lima, where he continued in the same line for several years more. In 1879 he came to Celina and entered upon the same business, which he carried on continuously until 1906, when he retired; a portion of this time he was in partnership with his brother John. His) markets were well known for the fine quality of their goods. He has, in the meantime, been interested in other successful enterprises, has a large grain and elevator business and was one of the early buyers and shippers of livestock in this locality. In partnership with John E. Hamburger and Julius Theiman, he has established a creamery with every prospect of doing an extensive business. He is also interested in a stave factory at Ada, Ohio. Mr.

In 1882 Mr. Beiersdorfer was married to Sarah Ungerer, and they have three children, viz. : Leona, Frank and Hazel B. With his family he belongs to the Catholic Church. He is also an active member of the Knights of St. John, and is a member of the German Independent Aid Society.

Wesley W. Beauchamp

Wesley W. Beauchamp, M. D., a leading medical practitioner at Rockford, was born in Franklin township, Mercer County, Ohio, August 13, 1863, and is a son of Martin Luther and Sarah Ann (Johnston) Beauchamp.

The Beauchamp family was established in Mercer County by the grandfather of Dr. Beauchamp, who was a native of North Carolina. The family originated in France, fled to Scotland on account of political troubles and later crossed the ocean and made a home in North Carolina. Wesley Beauchamp, the grandfather, was one of the pioneer settlers at Montezuma, where he died in 1852. He acquired a large amount of land, his farm including a large part of the present site of St. Marys. Wesley Beauchamp had three sons and four daughters, namely : Monroe, William and Martin Luther, sons, and Cornelia, Isabel, Catherine and Calista, daughters. The sons have all passed away. Monroe died when about 21 years of age. William moved to Shelby County and later to Darke County, Ohio, where he died in 1905. Cornelia, deceased, was the wife of Isaac Selby. Isabel was married (first) to Salathiel Haje and later, to Morris Kelly, now deceased; she resides in Franklin township, Mercer County. Calista also resides in Franklin township, and is the widow of George Miller. The father of Dr. Beauchamp was born in 1830 and died January 29, 1878, at the age of 48 years.

The mother of our subject was born February 25, 1839, and was the eldest daughter of John J. and Elizabeth (Peck) Johnston, both of whom were natives of Enniskillen, Ireland. John J. Johnston accompanied his parents to New Brunswick in childhood, and later they came to Franklin township, Mercer County, as pioneer settlers. The great-grandmother of our subject died at the age of 90 years. John J. Johnston was about 21 years old when he came to Mercer County ; he died in 1897 in Shelby County, aged 80 years. The children born to John J. and Elizabeth (Peck) Johnston were six daughters and two sons, all of whom survive, as follows : Sarah Ann, the mother of Dr. Beauchamp, who was born in Mercer County and is still a resident there; Jennie, residing in Shelby County, who is the widow of James Weymer, deceased June 30, 1906; Barbara, wife of Finley Wilson, residing in

Shelby County; Mary, wife of Joseph A. Wilson, residing in Miami County; Martha, wife of Reuben G. Singles, a grocer at Piqua, Ohio; Emma, wife of Charles A. Hetzler, of Sidney, Ohio; Samuel P., of Shelby County, who married Martha Campbell; and Stephen T., of Piqua, who married Ella Davis.

There were three sons and three daughters born to Martin Luther and Sarah Ann (Johnston) Beauchamp, as follows: Laura, who died in girlhood; John, who is a farmer, residing in Franklin township; Wesley W., of this sketch; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Gordon Botkin, of St. Marys; Hortense, who died in 1900, aged 28 years; and Herbert K., who is a practicing physician at Phoenix, Arizona - he is a graduate of the Indiana Medical College, at Indianapolis and formerly practiced at Keystone, Indiana.

Wesley W. Beauchamp received his literary training in the schools of Montezuma and Celina. In 1892 he entered Starling Medical College, at Columbus, where he was graduated in 1895. In April of the same year he entered upon the practice of his profession with Dr. A. Stephenson, at Fort Recovery. One year later, in April, 1896, he came to Rockford and was in partnership here for three and a half years, with Dr. Kirby. In April, 1905, he gave up practice on account of failing health and spent a year at Piqua,, recuperating. In April, 1906, he returned to Rockford, where he has prac- ' ticed ever since, meeting with satisfactory success. He is preparing to take up special work in diseases of the eye.

On July 4, 1895, Dr. Beauchamp was married to Hattie C. White, a daughter of Cornelius S. and Sarah E. (Brubaker) White. They had one child but it died in infancy.

Politically Dr. Beauchamp is a Republican. Fraternally he is a Mason and belongs to Shane's Lodge, No. 377, at Rockford. Personally he is a man of pleasant address and bears the marks of a student. As man and physician he is held in very high esteem in Rockford.

Valentine W. Brehm

Valentine W. Brehm, a well-known citizen and representative farmer and stock-raiser of Liberty township, residing on his valuable farm in section 16, was born January 11, 1861, in Montgomery County, Ohio. His parents were John and Mary (Lower) Brehm.

John Brehm, who is now a resident of Liberty township, was born in Germany. After coming to America, he resided for a time in Montgomery County, Ohio, but came to Mercer County in 1872. The mother of our subject died when he was a boy.

manhood, and was educated in the puWic schools. He has always devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits and is numbered with the successful farmers of Liberty township. He settled on his present farm in 1893, finding it little more than a timber tract then, but he has developed it into a very valuable farm.

Mr. Brehm was married on December 24, 1885, to Sophia Alt, a daughter of John Alt, a well-known resident of Liberty township. Mr. and Mrs. Brehm have two children, Philip J. and Annie L., both of whom have been: educated in the local schools and reside at home.

Mr. Brehm is a stanch Democrat. He is a man who takes a great deal of interest in the public school system and has given his time to serve as» school director of District No. 5. Both he and his good wife are members of the Lutheran Church.

E. J. Brookhart, attorney-at-law at Celina and referee in bankruptcy for Mercer County, was born August 8, 1881, in Hopewell township, Mercer County, Ohio, some five miles north of Celina. He is a son of J. C. Brookhart.

The father of E. J. Brookhart was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, bufi has been a citizen of Mercer County for many years. He still occupies and operates his farm in Hopewell township.

E. J. Brookhart was reared on his father's farm and was mainly educated at Mendon, graduating from the Mendon High School before entering upon the study of the law. In 1903 he was graduated in law at the Ohio Northern University at Ada, and in March, 1904, he entered into practice, locating at Celina. In February, 1906, he was appointed United States referee in bankruptcy for Mercer County, the duties of which office he has efficiently filled ever since.

On December 25, 1902, Mr. Brookhart was married to Dora Montgomery, a daughter of Dr. West Montgomery, of Ada, Ohio, formerly of Mercer County. Mrs. Brookhart is a talented musician and has been the leader of the choir of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church ever since taking up her residence at Celina. Both she and Mr. Brookhart are very active in church circles, he being a member of the board of stewards and she, of various benevolent organizations connected with its philanthropic activities. Mr. Brookhart still retains his membership in his college fraternity society of Theta Nu Epsilon.

Jacob Huwer

Jacob Huwer, one of Butler township's prosperous farmers, residing on a farm of 120 acres in section 29, was born at Cranberry Prairie, Mercer County, Ohio, September 10, 1857, and is a son of Jacob and Barbara (Kart) Huwer.

Jacob Huwer. Sr., owned a fine farm of 160 acres and always followed agricultural pursuits. He died April 25, 1906, and his wife died in 1874. They had seven children, as follows : Jacob ; Mary, who married Peter

Stachler, of Dayton, Ohio; Kate, who married Henry Wolfe; Annie, who married Charles Bier; John; William; and Fred, who died from the effects of a rattlesnake bite, when six years old.

Jacob Huwer, our subject, was reared on a farm at Cranberry Prairie, and after his marriage lived on a farm of 85 acres near this point, which he sold in April, 1903, and purchased his present place. He resides in a fine, large brick house.

Mr. Huwer was married on August 8, 1882, to Maggie Rindler, a daughter of Constantine Rindler, and they have had 13 children, as follows: Christine, deceased; Jacob, who married Dina Spoltman; John; William; Mary; Christine (2) ; Henry; Leo; Charles, who died aged three years and six months ; Roman, who died aged seven weeks ; Clara, who died in infancy ; Raymond and Carl. Mr. Huwer is a member of the Catholic Church and also of St. Joseph's Society. In politics he is a Democrat.

John Tennent

John Tennent, a well-known contractor of Celina, where he has resided for the past 17 years, was born at Gettysburg, Darke County, Ohio, August 14, 1856. He was reared in his native town and was five years old when his father died. At an early age he was bound out on a farm where he remained until 21 years of age; thus his educational advantages were very limited. After leaving the farm, he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed in connection with farming near Gettysburg. In 1889 he moved to Celina, where for the past 1 5 years he has been engaged in general contracting. Mr. Tennent has built 37 residences in

Montezuma, Ohio; F. C., who is in partnership with his father; H. C., of Greenville, Ohio; Jennie and Sallie (twins); Guy and Emma. Politically, Mr. Tennent is a Republican. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. lodge at Gettysburg and a member of the St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church at Celina.

Bernard Borger

Bernard Borger, a well-known resident of Celina, where he was engaged in business for a number of years, and a member of the Board of Infirmary Directors, was born October 27, 1854, in Granville township, Mercer County, Ohio, and is a son of Joseph and Katherine E. (Ronnebaum) Borger.

The father of Mr. Borger was born in Germany and came to America when 21 years of age, locating immediately in Cincinnati. He worked there until 1835 when he bought government land in Granville township, Mercer County, and walked the distance between Cincinnati and Wapakoneta, carrying his purchase money, $300 in silver, in a bag on his back. He lived to become one of the large landowners in Mercer County. He married Katherine E. Ronnebaum, who was also- born in Germany, and they had seven children, one of whom died in infancy. Three are living at the present time: Bernard, of this sketch; Frederick, of St. Henry; and Mary, wife of Henry Dorger, a farmer in Granville township. Henry, Joseph and Frances died, leaving families. The father and mother lived to a good old age, the former dying March 17, 1887, aged 74 years, and the latter surviving the death of her husband but six days, being aged 72 years. They were most worthy people and were honored and beloved by those who knew them.

Bernard Borger was educated in Granville township and followed farming there until June 15, 1891, when, he removed to Celina, where he ran a grocery store for one year, later was in a lumber business and then clerked in a hardware store for seven years. On January 1, 1901, he became a member of the Board of Infirmary Directors of Mercer County, and has been clerk of the board ever since. While residing in Granville township he served as trustee, and was always interested in the educational affairs of his neighborhood. Since retiring from business, he has given the larger part of his time to looking after his valuable real estate interests.

Mr. Borger is a member of the Catholic Church. He belongs to the Knights of St. John, uniform rank, and is also a member of St. Joseph's Society. His residence is on West Logan street, Celina.

August Frahm

August Frahm, a well-known farmer of Hopewell township, who resides on his excellent farm of 80 acres situated in section 7, was born September 29, 1856, in Hopewell township, Mercer County, Ohio, and is a son of John H. and Sophia (Smith) Frahm.

John H. Frahm and Avife were natives of Germany. They emigrated to America about 1852 and became early settlers in Hopewell township, Mercer County. John H. Frahm became a prominent citizen of the township and county, serving in the former as a trustee and in the latter as county commissioner for six years. He was a stanch Democrat in his political views and a worthy member of the Lutheran Church. He died in April, 1899.

August Frahm was feared with his brothers and sister on the home farm in Hopewell township, and they were all educated in the public schools, our subject enjoying also a short period of instruction in the Celina schools. He owns a good farm and the greater part of his time is given to its further improvement.

Politically Mr. Frahm is a stanch Democrat. He has served as school director of District No. 4 at various times, and has proved a valuable member of the board. In 1900 he was made land appraiser in Hopewell township. He is a leading member of the Lutheran Church, in which he is a trustee and also a deacon. Like other members of his family, he is held in high esteem throughout Hopewell toAvnship.

Joseph Mcdonald

Joseph McDonald, who resides on his valuable farm of 80 acres in Jefferson township, situated in section 2, township 6 south, range 2 east, was born in Darke County, Ohio, October 21, 1835, and is a son of John and

Maria (Baker) McDonald and a grandson of Joseph McDonald, a native of Scotland, who came to this country when quite young and settled in Miami County, Ohio.

John McDonald, father of Joseph, was reared in Darke County. He married Maria Baker, a daughter of Lewis Baker, a prominent farmer of Darke County, who had been a soldier in the Indian Wars.

Joseph McDonald was reared and educated in his native county and in 3 85 1 accompanied his parents to Mercer County. They located in Jefferson township, in which township he has ever since resided. He has lived on his present farm for 47 years, having taken possession shortly after his marriage.

On September 10, 1869, he was married to Lydia Smith, who was born at Celina, Ohio, and is a daughter of Matthias and Elizabeth (Molder) Smith, both of whom were natives of Germany, but were married in Mansfield, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. McDonald have had 10 children, six of whom are still living, namely: Hettie, who lives at home; Lizzie, who married

Ward Raudabaugh, resides at South Lebanon, Ohio, and has one child, Mabel Margaret; Arthur, who lives at home; Lucy, who lives at home; Grace; and Mabel. Grace received her early education in the country schools, then graduated from the Celina High School and has since taken a course in the Ohio State University at Columbus, graduating in the class of 1906. Prior to entering the Ohio State University, she taught school in the country for one year, and is now teaching at Nelsonville, Ohio. Mabel graduated from the Celina High School in 1906.

Joseph Pax

, Joseph Pax, one of Mercer County's progressive farmers, residing on a well-improved tract of 120 acres in Jefferson township, situated in section 11, township 6 south, range 2 east, was born in Germany, November 11, 1861, and is a son of John and Josephine (Ast) Pax.

John Pax and family came to America when Joseph was five years old and located in Franklin County, Indiana. There were six children in the parental family, as follows: Joseph; John; George; Mary, deceased; Mrs.

Lena Hartman; and Anna, who is the wife of Pius Pfister. Prior to his death, in 1896, John Pax sold his farm and went to live with his son Joseph.

Joseph Pax was reared and educated in Franklin County, Indiana. After his marriage he moved to Cincinnati and spent the following 10 years in Hamilton County. He then purchased a farm in Jeffersqn township, Mercer County, where he has since resided. He has made many improvements

Mr. Pax was married in 1887 to Louise Wilhelm and they have reared a family of 10 children, namely: Jacob, Anthony, Cecilia, Elma, Leo, Lena, Emma, Oscar and Walter (twins) and Albert. Mr. Pax and his family are members of the Catholic Church.

Frank Puthoff

Frank Puthoff, a representative agriculturist of Jefferson township, resides upon his farm of 120 acres, favorably situated in section 3, township 6 south, range 2 east, where he carries on general farming and stock-raising. He was born in Marion township, Mercer County, Ohio, February 26, 1844, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Long) Puthoff.

Henry Puthoff was born in Germany and spent his earlier life there. After the death of his father, he came to Mercer County, Ohio, with- two brothers, and later sent for his mother who had remained in Germany. She lived many years after joining her children and died at the age of 84 years. Henry Puthoff died in 1873.

Frank Puthoff was reared in Marion township and attended the neighboring schools. On October 4, 1864, he was married to Catherine Brandywine, a native of Auglaize County, Ohio, who is a daughter of Herman Henry and Caroline (Johns) Brandywine, the former of whom was born in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Puthoff have had 10 children, namely: John, who married Mary Knapke, and has four children; Elizabeth, who married Michael Reusch and died June 5, 1897; Katie, who married George Ineichen, lives in Indiana and has five children; Benjamin, who married Coletta Wourms, in October, 1905; Mary, who married Thomas Durbin and has three children; Henry, who married Mary McGill, October 10, 1905, and lives in Colorado; Jacob, who married Magdalena Buehler, in February, 1906; and Andrew, Joseph and Caroline, all living at home.

After his marriage, Mr. Puthoff lived for nine years in Auglaize County with his father-in-law, and then bought 80 acres of his present farm. The family continued to live in a log cabin until 1881, although Mr. Puthoff kept continually improving his land. The cabin still stands on the place. In 1881 he erected the present commodious and comfortable frame residence. Mr. Puthoff served his school district for 15 years as director and took a great deal of interest in advancing the usefulness of the schools. He is a worthy member of the Catholic Church at Celina.

Adam Bettinger

Adam Bettinger, a successful farmer of Butler township, who owns 80 acres of excellent land, situated in section 28, was born in Bavaria, Germany, September 8, 1834, and is a son of John and Barbara (Swartz) Bet-' tinger.

The parents of Mr. Bettinger were both born in Germany, where the father owned a small farm. Desiring more land, he decided to emigrate to America, and with his family took passage in 1846 on a sailing vessel, which landed them at the port of New York after a long voyage. John Bettinger settled on a farm in Seneca County, Ohio, four years later removing to Lucas County, where he died in 1856. His widow died in Lucas County in 1871.

Adam Bettinger continued to live in Lucas County until 1866 and then returned to Seneca County, where he rented a farm for a few years. In 1869, after investigating the farming land in Mercer County, Mr. Bettinger bought his present farm in Butler township, 40 acres of which were improved. He erected the house and barn himself and made all the other improvements, which have converted this into one of the best farms in the township. Mr. Bettinger has always been a hard worker and through his enterprise and industry has accumulated a fine property.

In 1861 Mr. Bettinger was married to Mary Omlor, daughter of Theodore Omlor. She was born in Germany and was two years old when her parents brought her with them to this country. Mr. and Mrs. Bettinger have had 13 children, namely: John, who married Lizzie Rhein, lives at Coldwater and has six children; Frank, who married Josephine Albers, lives on his farm of no acres in Butler township, and has six children; William, who married Carrie Rahe, deceased, has one child; Charles, who married Kate Hoenning and has two children; Jacob, unmarried, who lives on the home farm; Catherine, who married John Wentzel, lives at Dayton and has one child ; Mary, who married Ora Rhoades and lives at Dayton ; Rose, who married Frank Fullenkamp and lives at Celina; Stephen, who lives at home; and Joseph, Joseph (2), Anthony and Margaret, who are deceased.

Mr. Bettinger is a member of the Catholic Church. He has always been an active citizen of the township and for 21 years he served as a member of the School Board.

John Brehm

John Brehm, one of the old and respected residents of Liberty township, who has resided on his present farm of 100 acres, situated in section

The parents of Mr. Brehm were intelligent German people who afforded their son good educational advantages. He learned the trade of baker in his own land, but he came to America when 20 years of age and since then has been entirely engaged in agricultural pursuits. He lived in Montgomery County, Ohio, until 1872, when he brought his family to Mercer County and settled on his present farm in Liberty township. He still retains 100 acres but has given farms to his children and has been liberal to the church.

In Montgomery County, Ohio, John Brehm was married to Mary Lower, and they had eight children, five of whom are still living, as follows: John C., Caroline (wife of John Deitsch), John Peter, Valentine W. and Henry C. Henry C. Brehm, the youngest son of our subject, is a prominent citizen of Liberty township and one of the leading Democrats. He has served four years on the township School Board and in 1900 served on the board of election. On June 27, 1889, he married Phebe Leininger, a daughter of Jacob Leininger, of Liberty township, and they have four children, namely: Margaret C., Walter E., George J. and William H., all grandchildren of whom our venerable subject may well be proud.

John Brehm's second marriage also took place in Montgomery County, to Margaret Bollenbacher. They had three children, the two survivors of this marriage being: Mary, wife of Andy Bauer; and Elizabeth, widow

All through the years of citizenship, Mr. Brehm has consistently supported the candidates of the Democratic party. He is one of the leading members of St. Paul's German Evangelical Church.

John H. Yaney

John Id. Yaney, whose fine farm of 85 acres of excellent land is situated in section 23, Butler township, is one of the representative agriculturists of this part of the county and a very highly respected citizen. He was born in Butler township, Mercer County, Ohio, September 16, 1859, and is a son of Benjamin and Martha Ann (Monroe) Yaney.

Benjamin Yaney was born in Pennsylvania. In boyhood, his father having died, he accompanied his mother to Mercer County, Ohio, among the early settlers. His whole mature life was spent in this county; he died when our subject was only three years old. His widow survived but seven years, dying when John H. was 10 years and 15 days old. From then until his marriage, our subject resided with his grandmother, Mrs. Mary Jane Mon-

On April 6, 1880, Mr. Yaney was united in marriage with Abigail Lucretia Johnson, a daughter of Gratz M. Johnson. She was born in Clearheld County, Pennsylvania, September 11, 1856, and died on Sunday, June 24, 1906, the birthday of her daughter, Lucretia Velma, and was buried on the birthday of her son Floyd. Her age was 49 years, 9 months and 13 days. She was 13 years old when she accompanied her parents to Mercer County and resided with them near Montezuma until her marriage. She was a lady of beautiful Christian character, a faithful member of the United Brethren Church from the age of 20 years, a devoted wife and mother and a kind and sympathetic neighbor.

married John E. Bright, lives near Dayton and has one child; Orla, who lives at home; Hester Elstella, who married John Plummer, lives in Washington township and has twin children ; and Floyd Monroe, Martha Ann, Lucretia Velma, Mildred Cleo and Stanley Gladstone, all residing at home.

Mr. Yaney inherited 40 acres of land from his mother and in 1885 he purchased 45 acres more. He has improved this property, which is considered one of the best in Butler township. In 1884 he built a commodious frame house and added other substantial buildings. The great barn was completed in 1904. The farm bears the pleasant name of the "Clover Leaf Farm," and here Mr. Yaney carries on general farming, does some dairying and produces fine live-stock.

For a number of years Mr. Yaney has been one of the leading members of the Radical United Brethren Church, in which he is a class leader and a trustee. He is a man, who on account of the uprightness of his character stands very high in the estimation of his fellow-citizens.

John F. Frahm

John F. Frahm, clerk of the Board of Education of Hopewell township, is one of the representative men of this section of Mercer County. He resides on his well-improved farm of 80 acres in section 15. Mr. Frahm belongs to one of the old pioneer families of the township, in which he wtps born October 7, i860, and is a son of John H. and Sophia (Smith) Frahm, natives of Germany.

of more than usual good judgment and in the course of time he became a very useful and prominent citizen of Mercer County. He served as trustee of Hopewell township and for six years was a member of the Board of County Commissioners. His political views made him a Democrat and he was an active party worker. His death occurred in April, 1899. He was a worthy member and liberal supporter of the Lutheran Church. His seven surviving children are: Minnie, wife of John Hoenie, of Hopewell township; August, of Hopewell township; John F., of this sketch; Elizabeth, wife of Henry Brasch, of Tipton, Indiana; Frederica, widow of Frederick Rahn, now residing at Celina; Charles, of Hopewell township; and Anna, wife of John Luth, of Dublin township.

John F. Frahm was reared in Hopewell township and was thoroughly trained in agricultural pursuits. He was educated in the public schools, in which he has always taken a great interest and, as noted above, is now serving as clerk of the Board of Education. The schools of Hopewell township have an enviable reputation for their efficiency. Previous to taking this position, he served four years as township clerk. Mr. Frahm carries on general farming and is considered one of the leading agriculturists of his locality.

Mr. Frahm was united in marriage with Louisa Sielschott, who was born in Hopewell township, Mercer County, and is a daughter of G. W. Sielschott. Mr. and Mrs. Frahm have six children, namely: Clarence W.,

Politically Mr. Frahm is identified with the Democratic party. He is a member of the Lutheran Church and is serving as one of the deacons of the church in Hopewell township.

Jacob Becher

Jacob Becher, who is engaged in farming in Black Creek township, has resided here since 1882 on his present valuable farm of 80 acres, near Chattanooga. He was born in Liberty township, Mercer County, Ohio, May 8, 1859, and is a son of John and Anna Maria (Baker) Becher.

County, Ohio; Mary, wife of Frederick Dasher, of Van Wert, Ohio; Jacob, of this sketch; Louisa, wife of Philip W. Deitsch, of Celina; John F. and George W., both of Liberty township; Matilda B., wife of John Gribler, of Van Wert; and William of Liberty township. Catherine and Henry are deceased.

Residence And Barn Of Henry Fred Dammeyer And Representative Citizens 607

Pennsylvania. The former died July 25, 1883, but the latter still survives and resides with her affectionate children in Liberty township. John Becher was a boy when he came to xA.merica with his parents. His father, Frederick Becher, settled in what was then a wilderness in Black Creek township, Mercer County. The grandfather and father of Jacob Becher were pioneer settlers who proved their worth by clearing their lands, cultivating them thor-' oughly and assisting in all the civilizing movements of their day. The township lost men of high character when Frederick and John Becher passed away. They were Lutherans in religion and Democrats in politics.

Jacob Becher was reared on his father's farm and attended the district schools. His training was all along agricultural lines and he has been familiar with farming in all its details since boyhood. He has resided on his present farm since 1882, as noted above, and in the quarter century which has elapsed has become identified with all the educational and public interests of this neighborhood. He is numbered with the good farmers of this township.

On October 12, 1882, Mr. Becher was married to Mary Kettering, who was born in Washington township, Mercer County, Ohio, and they have nine children, as follows : John Henry Frederick, Caroline Alminnie Anna, George Jacob Edward, Ida Fredericka Catherine and Iva Mary Margaret (twins), Sarah Ella Jane, James William Theobald, Clarence Oliver Raymond and Samuel Oscar Leroy. Mr. Becher and family belong to the Lutheran Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

Henry Fred Dammeyer

Henry Fred Dammeyer, who owns a fine farm of 121 acres situated in section 25, Franklin township, was born September 17, 1840, at New Bremen, Auglaize County, Ohio, and is a son of Henry and Margaret (Meyer) Dammeyer.

Henry Dammeyer and his wife, both of whom were natives of Germany, came to this country and settled in Auglaize County, Ohio, where they purchased a farm of 40 acres near New Bremen. Mr. Dammeyer's brother Christopher came to America with him and died shortly afterwards. Henry Dammeyer was the father of two children: Sophia, who married Fred Frey and lives in Hillsboro, Illinois; and Henry Fred, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Dammeyer died near New Bremen at the age of 62 years. After his death his wife sold the farm and with the family moved to Franklin township, settling on a farm which her son, Henry Fred Dammeyer, bought from Morris

Henry Fred Dammeyer was reared on his father's farm and has always devoted himself to agricultural pursuits. After his marriage he continued to live on the farm purchased from Morris Kelly. Finally he sold this farm to his son Gustav, and in 1892 bought his present farm, which was the Myles Lane farm. Mr. Dammeyer has one of the most highly developed farms in Franklin township ; the beautiful hedge fence, on each side of the driveway leading to the house, adds much to the attractiveness of the place.

Mr. Dammeyer was married January 24, 1867, to Auguste Thieman, a daughter of Harmon H. and Margaret (Stapelberg) Thieman, natives of Germany. Upon coming to this country, Mr. and Mrs. Thieman located at Cincinnati, Ohio, where they remained for two years, and then moved to New Bremen. They were the parents of four children: Frank; Christopher; Gustav; and Auguste. Mrs. Dammeyer was born in Germany, November 16, 1850. and was two years old when the family came to the United States. She was reared and educated at New Bremen, Ohio. Her father died in 1855, and her mother, August 31, 1893. Mr. and Mrs. Dammeyer have had 11 children, namely : Julius, who married Rosina Tontrup, and has three children ; Gustav, who married Christina Rump and has five children; Theodore, who married Lora Huenke and has three children ; Edward, who died at the age of 23 years; William, who married Ida Kamrnon, and has one child; Amanda, who married Leo Huenke and has one child ; Levi ; Otto ; Adelia ; Oscar and Frieda. Mr. Dammeyer and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church at New Bremen.

John F. Roeckner

John F. Roeckner, one of the substantial farmers of Marion township, who resides on his 100-acre farm in section 13, was born February 29, i860, and is a son of William and Bernardina (Clune) Roeckner. -

William Roeckner was born in Hanover, Germany, one of a large family of children, but he and one brother were the only ones to come to this country, the latter probably locating in Illinois. William Roeckner first settled at Cincinnati, where he worked for a time, subsequently moving to Berlin, Ohio, where he and a Mr. Dreesman contracted to complete a part of the canal. A few years later he moved to Mercer County and was married to Bernardina Clune, a native of Germany, and a daughter of Arnold Clune.

Arnold Clune came from Hanover, Germany, to this country and settled in Mercer County, where he bought land from the government about 80 years ago. He was one of the first settlers of Mercer County, when his family was one of the six or eight families in this section. He purchased the land now owned by John F. Roeckner about 1828, and five years later his three children followed him to America, their mother having died some years previously. The children were as follows : Gerhard, Maximilian and Bernardina. »

After his marriage, William Roeckner bought from his father-in-law the farm which the latter had secured from the Government, and later bought 120 acres more in the same township. A family of 10 children were born to William and Bernardina (Clune) Roeckner: Mary, who married Casper Desch - both now deceased ; Joseph, who lives at Coldwater ; Catherine, who died aged 18 years; John; Elizabeth, who married Joseph -Knapke and lives at Sidney, Ohio; Frances, who married John Buehler and lives at McCartyville, Ohio; Margaret, deceased in infancy; William, who married (first) Philomena Desch and (second) Catherine Gerlach and died in 1901 ; and Fred and a babe, both deceased in infancy. William Roeckner died in March, 1876, and his wife, in April, 1901.

John Roeckner was born and reared on his present farm. His father died when he was 16 years old and he was obliged to assist his mother in supporting the family. He was married in 1890 to Elizabeth Hinders, a daughter of Gerhard and Maria (Haggerman) Hinders, and a sister of Joseph Hinders, who was recently sheriff of Mercer County. Seven children were born to this marriage: Leona, Odilia, Agatha, William, Werner,

Otto and Rose Mary, all of whom are living at home. Mr. Roeckner was one of the petitioners for the Roeckner pike, which was named after him and of which he is now superintendent. His brother William was township treasurer and when he died the position was offered to Mr. Roeckner, which, however, he refused. Mr. Roeckner and family are members of the Catholic Church.

John J. Knapke

Tohn J. Knapke, one of the prosperous agriculturists of Jefferson township, owns a fine farm of 80 acres, 70 of which is in section 35, and 10 in section 34, township 5 south, range 2 east. He was born in Hopewell township, Mercer County, Ohio, one mile north of his present home, February 26, 1877. He is a son of Henry and Mary (Bertke) Knapke.

in the vicinity of that place, an orphan and a poor boy who had to make has own way in the world. That he succeeded was shown when he owned enough land to give his three sons farms of 80 acres each, and still retain 112 acres. He married Mary Bertke and their children were: Henry, died in infancy; Kate, who married Joseph Ineichen and resides in Jefferson township; Mary, who married John Puthoff and lives in Jefferson township; Annie, who married Basil Halsma and lives in Oklahoma; John J. and Benjamin (twins), the latter dying in infancy ; and Joseph, Agnes, Augustus and Carrie, who live on the home farm. Henry Knapke died September 23, 1906, aged 59 years.

John J. Knapke was reared in Hopewell township and was educated in the district schools. On March 2, 1900, he married Lizzie Bruns, a daughter of Augustus Bruns, of Mercer County. They have had two children, Edith and Irvin, the latter of whom died September 17, 1906.

After his marriage, Mr. Knapke settled on the 80-acre farm which had been given him by his father, but in May, 1906, he sold that property and moved to the present farm, which he bought from his brother-in-law. He carries on general farming operations, raises some stock and has a fine dairy.

Mr. Knapke is a member of the Catholic Church. For many years he has been a member of the German Independent Aid Society. In his neighborhood he is counted among the reliable, honorable men of the community.

John Brackman

John Brackman, who has lived all of his life on his present farm of 139 acres, situated in section 2, Marion township, was born March, 1845, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Tiesem) Brackman.

John Brackman and his wife, who were both of German birth, came to this country from Hanover, Germany, locating for a short time in the South. They also lived in Cincinnati, Ohio, for a short time, after which they came to Mercer County, Ohio, among the early settlers, and purchased 60 acres of land from the government at $1.50 an acre. At that time the United States Land Office was at Lima and the deed was signed by President Martin Van Buren. Afterwards 79 acres more were purchased from the government at $2.00 per acre. Mr. and Mrs. Brackman only had one child, John, the subject of this sketch. Mrs. Brackman died about 1851 and her husband died six years later.

John Brackman, the subject of this sketch, lived until 12 years of age with his parents. At that time his father died, leaving him the farm of 139 acres. Mr. Sherman was appointed guardian, but died shortly after. Our subject worked around on different farms for a time and also spent some time in Cincinnati. When 21 years of age he came into possession of his property. The country at that time was still chiefly timberland. The Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railway runs through his property now.

Mr. Brackman was married in 1866 to Caroline Overman, a daughter of Henry and Agnes (Bockman) Overman. Henry Overman and his wife came from Germany to this country, and were married at Cincinnati, Ohio. They had 10 children: Mary, who married Henry Reichert; Henry, deceased; Barney; Fred, deceased; Anthony; Agnes, deceased, who was the wife of Benjamin Miller; Elizabeth, who married Henry Gottemoller; John; Joseph, deceased; and Caroline, the wife of our subject, who was born May 5, 1847, in Marion township, Mercer County, Ohio. Mr. Overman died March 8, 1876. His wife died May 5, 1904.

Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Brackman, as follows: Agnes, who married August Rutchilling, and after his death Joseph Winners and lives in Berlin, Shelby County - she had one child by her first marriage, Henry, and has two children by her second marriage, Leona and Alexander; Llenry, who married Anna Lubke, lives near his father and has one child, William; Elizabeth, who married Henry Bruns, lives in Marion township and has four children - Caroline, Anna, Laura and Clara; John; Clara; Catherine; Frank; Vincent; Amy; and Anthony, who died when an infant. Mr. Brackman and his family are members of St. John's Catholic Church. He served two terms as township trustee.

Michael Reusch

Michael Reusch, a well-known citizen and excellent farmer of Jefferson township, residing on a farm of 80 acres located in section 33, township 5 south, range 2 east, was born in Germany, September 6, i860, and is a son of Gottfried and Maria (Saltzer) Reusch.

Michael Reusch was reared and educated in Germany and worked at farming and wine making until 21 years of age, when he came to America and located at Celina, Ohio, where his brother Christopher had located three years previously. He secured employment on a dairy farm and remained there the following 22 months. On September 1, 1888, he was appoined superintendent of the County Infirmary, where he had previously been working. He continued to fill that office for the next 1 5 years, and during that time made many needed changes, which benefited the inmates. In the spring of 1893 Mr. Reusch purchased his present home, where he has made many decided improvements.

On September 6, 1888, Michael Reusch was married (first) to Elizabeth Puthoff, a daughter of Frank Puthoff. She died June 5, 1897, leaving' three children: Harry, Lizzie and Bertha. Mr. Reusch was married (second), August 24, 1S98, to Paulina Dosten, a daughter of August Dosten and by his marriage has two children, Pauline and Freda. Mr. Reusch is a member of the German Independent Aid Society.

Bernard Huelskamp

Bernard Huelskamp, who resides on his farm of 120 acres, located in section 25, Marion township, was born June 24, 1870, and is a son of Deitrich and Elizabeth (Tangeman) Huelskamp and a grandson of Henry Huelskamp.

Henry Huelskamp, who- was a native of Germany, came to this country in 1835 and settled in Mercer County, Ohio, dying after three years' resiJ dence in this country. He was the father of four children, all born in Germany, as follows: Henry (deceased) Deitrich, Joseph and Bernardina.

Deitrich Huelskamp was born June 24, 1822, and came to America with his father when 13 years old. When about 16 years old, Jjis father died and, being the oldest child, he was obliged to support the family. Pie was married to Elizabeth Tangeman, who was born in Germany and came to- America with her parents when about six years old. Her parents, Henry and Anna (Moeller) Tangeman, came to this country from Germany and settled in Marion township on a farm near Maria Stein. Mr. and Mrs. Tangeman had the following children most of whom were born in Germany : Elizabeth, Anthony, Joseph, Fred, Barney, Henry, Catherine and Mary. After his marriage, Mr. Huelskamp continued to live on the home farm near Maria Stein, and there nine children were born, namely: Henry, who died aged four years; Mary, who married Henry Fullenkamp; Frank, deceased; John, who married Mary Heitkamp; Catherine, deceased, who married Peter Brown; Frances, who married Frank Dabelt ; Anna, who lives with her father at Maria Stein; Bernard ; and Rosa, who died in infacy.

Bernard Huelskamp was born and reared on the farm where he now lives, which property he purchased from his father. He was married in 1894 to! Rosa Thobe, who was born December 10, 1876, and is a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Wormen) Thobe. Joseph Thobe was born and raised in Germany and came to America when a young man, settling in. Marion township, Mercer County, Ohio. He married Elizabeth Wormen, a daughter of Henry Wormen, also a native of Germany, who emigrated to this country and died in Auglaize County, Ohio, having lived to be almost 100 years old. Mr. and Mrs. Thobe had 14 children as follows: Mary, who married S. Kemper; Elizabeth, who married Joeseph Osterfeld ; Anna, who married Joseph

Westgerdes; Catherine, who married Anton Kemper; John, who married Rosa Vehorn; Rosa; Frances, who- married Joseph Menke ; Josephine, who married John Westgerdes; Anna, who married Barney Geyle; and Henry, Mary, Henry, Joseph and Maggie, who are deceased. Mr. Thobe died June 14, 1906. His wife is living in Auglaize County with her son John.

Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Huelskamp, namely: John, Joseph, Edward, Elizabeth, Loretta, Hilda and Leona. Mr. Huelskamp and family are all members of St. John's Catholic Church.

John George Kuhn

John George Kuhn, a highly esteemed citizen of Coldwater, who is almost entirely retired from active business, was horn in Bavaria, Germany, May 27, 1843, and a son °f John G. and Juliana (Schneider) Kuhn.

The Kuhn family emigrated to America in 1847 and the father of our subject started farming on 120 acres of land near Wapakoneta, Ohio. As he was an invalid, the actual labor of the farm was performed by his two sons, with hired help. He died May 8, 1866, but his wife survived until July 12, 1894. Our subject grew up here, assisted in the farming and also learned the wagonmaker's trade.

Mr. Kuhn was not quite 18 years old when President Lincoln's first call went out over the country for troops and he enlisted in Company K, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. He was mustered into the service on April 26, 1861, served through the three months of his enlistment and was discharged on August 27, 1861. In 1862 he reenlisted for three years, entering Company D, 106th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. On March 1, 1863, he was made corporal; on May 27, 1864, he was advanced to sergeant and was mustered out with his company on June 29, 1865, being finally discharged and paid on July 12th following.

Mr. Kuhn served first under General Buell, near Covington, Kentucky, and later marched 200 miles through that State and Tennessee, his command being much engaged in this vicinity during the early part of the war. On April 7, 1862, the whole brigade was captured by the enemy, at Hartsville, Tennessee, but soon escaped. During his service of three years he received two wounds in his left leg. During his last year of service, Sergeant Kuhn was a scout.

After his return from the war, Mr. Kuhn settled in Auglaize County and went to work at wagon-making, soon entering the employ of Jacob Koch in this line at St. Marys. In December, 1865, he formed a partnership with Mr. Koch and the business was continued until February, 1867, when he sold out and moved to Chattanooga, Mercer County, where he conducted wagon works until January i, 1869. During his stay there he bought a farm of 80 acres in Black Creek township, and after closing his business he moved upon the farm and operated it until the fall of 1875, when he sold out. He then moved to Decatur, Indiana, and in that vicinity he bought a farm of 80 acres, on which he resided until March 16, 1883. He then disposed of that property and removed to Butler township, Mercer County, buying another 80 acres. He moved on this farm and continued to reside on it until April 8, 1904, when he bought his home at Cold water. The farm was sold in November, 1905.