Putnam County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1915 (part 10 of 33)

Sanford Smith is the son of Adam and Margaret (Shouse) Smith, and was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, April i6, 1857. Adam Smith was the son of Robert Smith, a native of Scotland, who immigrated to America Avithhis brother, William. They settled in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, and there were, tailors. Robert Smith married Elizabeth Little, a native of Somerset county, and the daughter of Adam and Mary Little. After three had been born, they removed to Harrison county, Ohio, in 1826, and subsequently, removed to Tuscarawas county, where they died. Robert Smith was an old-line Whig. He and his wife were stanch members of the Presbyterian church. They had eight children, Adam, Leonard, Mary A., Thomas, John, Robert B., Harvey and David.

Adam Smith, the father of Sanford, was born on June 20, 182 1, in Somerset county and came with his parents to Ohio. He also moved 4ith his parents to Carroll county, Ohio, and in this county was married to Margaret Shouse, m 1844. She was born on October 3, 1820, and was the daughter of Barnard and Rachel (Palmer) Shouse, the former a native of Pennsylvania, who migrated to Carroll county at the age of sixteen years and was a school teacher there. Barnard Shouse was an old-line Whioand he and his family were members of the Presbyterian church Subse"- quently, they moved to Decatur county, Indiana, where they died

Others were Sylvester, deceased; Mary E., deceased; William C; Salathiel L.; Arthur L.; Nettie J., the wife of J. C. M. Doenges; Lorenzo; Madison S. and Edson E., deceased. Lorenzo is the twin brother of Sanford. Adam and Margaret Smith resided in Carroll county two years and then removed to Tuscarawas county, where they lived until 1859, when they moved to Hancock county. They moved to Putnam county in i860.

Mrs. Margaret Smith died on July 23, 1907, at the age of eighty seven years. Her death occurred on the homestead farm, in Monroe township. The tract of land comprises two hundred and forty acres and, it was here also, that Adam Smith died on November 17, 1880. Adam and Margaret Smith were members of the Methodist church and influential citizens throughout their lives in the history of Putnam county.

Sanford Smith remained on the homestead farm with his mother after the death of his father, until December 14, 1909, when he was married to Mrs. Zella D. Hager, the daughter of Jacob and Nancy E. (Hutchinson) Dickey. The family history of Mrs. Smith will be found in the sketch of S. M. Dickey, which appears elsewhere in this volume.

To Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Smith no children have been born. Throughout his life, Mr. Smith has been an ardent member of the Republican party and influential locally in the councils of his party. He now has a good farm of one hundred and forty-five acres, having begun with forty acres deeded to him by his mother., Sanford Smith is a quiet, unassuming man' congenial with his neighbors and favorably known in this locality.

Mrs. Smith has two daughters by her first marriage, Ethel C, now the wife of E. D. Harpster, who lives near Continental, Ohio Beatrice C wife of Charies W. Mansfield, of Defiance, Ohio, he being the only son of Lot W. and Lottie R. (Doenges) Mansfield.

Thomas C. Hipkins

One of the most highly esteemed citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, is Thomas C. Hipkms, who was born at Gilboa, Putnam county, Ohio, September 3, 1850. He IS a son of Thomas H. B. and Margaret (Fishel) Hipkins, and one of five children born to his parents. The other children are as follow: Christian Rudy, born on August 20, 1839, deceased; Luceria, born on

May 4, 1843, deceased; Winfield Scott, born on October 15, 1847, deceased,, and Harriett V., of Ottawa. All of the three sons served in the Civil War.

Thomas H. B. Hipkins was born at Prospect Hill, Harford county,. Maryland, on January 28, 1813, and located in Putnam county in 1841. His father, Charles G. Hipkins, died in 18 17, and his mother, Elizabeth, passed away in 1832. Thomas H. B. Hipkins was married in Hancock county, Ohio, on September 10, 1838, to Margaret, the daughter of John and Catherine Fishel. Mr. Fishel died in 1845 a-nd his wife passed away in 1821. Margaret Fishel was born in Frankhn county, Ohio, on June 17, 181 7, and died in 1890. He was engaged in the mercantile business in Gilboa, Putnam county, in 1845, and removed his store to Ottawa in 1856, where he continued in business until his death, in 1880.

After the death of Thomas H. B. Hipkins in 1880, his sons, Winfield S. and Thomas Corwin, continued the business in partnership, until Winfield S. died in 1907. For the next five years Thomas C. continued alone, after which he took his son, W. S., in with him as a partner, and they are now conducting the same line of business which was established in 1845, i" this county.

Thomas C. Hipkins enlisted in the Civil War in October, 1864, as a member of Company K, One Hundred and Eighty-second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer liifantry. He was only one month past his fourteenth birthday at the time of his enlistment, which entitles him to the honor of being one of the youngest soldiers in the state to enlist in the war. He served until he was mustered out at Nashville in July, 1865. After he returned from the Civil War, he attended Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, for one year. He then obtained a position in the St. Louis branch of the A. T. Stewart Dry Goods Company. During the year he was in St. Louis, he received a very broad training in general mercantile affairs. He then returned to his home in Ottawa, Ohio, and he and his brother, Winfield S., took charge of their father's store. The brothers continued in partnership until the death of Winfield S.

Mr. Hipkins was married in 1884 to Mrs. Rhoda Belle (Pitney) Woodruff, the daughter of Abijah and Rachel (Wheeler) Pitney. Mrs. Hipkins. came to Putnam county with her parents, who located in Blanchard township, and spent the remainder of their lives there on a farm. She married James- Woodruff, who died within sixty days after their marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Hipkins have five children : Eva, who is the wife of John Schafer, Jr., of Cleveland, Ohio, and has two children, Virginia and John Thomas ; Margaret is a teacher in the kindergarten schools of Spring City, Utah ; Winfield Scott, who is a partner with his father in the dry goods business in Ottawa ; Ruth, who is a nurse in the Lutheran hospital at Cleveland; Thomas C, Jr., who is still attending school, and is a wholesale dealer in eggs. One daughter, Mary, died at the age of eleven months.

Mr. and Mrs. Hipkins and all of the children belong to the Methodist Episcopal church and all are active workers in the church and Sunday school. Mr. Hipkins is a trustee of the church and also a member of the board of stewards. His fraternal connections are with the Free and Accepted Masons.

For more than seventy years the Hipkins store has stood in the front rank of the mercantile establishments of Putnam county, and with the young blood infused into it, in the young junior partner, the firm may reasonably expect to exist long after its first century birthday.

John Beard

To write the personal records of men who have raised themselves from humble circumstances to positions of responsibility and trust in the community, is no ordinary pleasure. Self-made men, men who have achieved success -by reason of their personal qualities, and left the impress of their individuality upon the business growth of their place of residence, affect for good such institutions as are embraced in the sphere of their usefulness. Unwittingly, perhaps, they build monuments more enduring than marble obelisk or granite shaft. One of the men, who is a well-known farmer of Greensburg township who falls in this class is John Beard.

John Beard's paternal grandfather was a native of Ireland, who settled m the state of Maryland, where he was well known as a teacher. He lived to the remarkable age of one hundred years. John Beard, Sr., the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in North Carolina, and came to Fairfield county, Ohio, when a young man. Mary Carey was born in Maryland July 4, 1802. She was the daughter of John and Mary Carey. To this union were born SIX children: Mrs. Margaret Pickering, George, Jacob, Samuel, John and Cornelius. John Beard, Sr., was a miller by trade, who died of the Cholera in 1832. His widow subsequently married J. M. Allen and after bearing him six children, died on January 13, 1889.

John Beard was reared as a farmer and educated in the common schools He left home at the age of fourteen, and for a time worked by the month as a farmer. In the meantime, he prepared himself for teaching, and in the fall of 1855, taught his first school at Cuba, in Putnam county. He taught during four winter terms at this place, continuing his professional work until 1866, in Greensburg and Jackson townships, and at the public schools at Fort Jennings.

In 1856, Mr. Beard purchased a farm of eighty acres, investing twenty dollars in the farm. He made some improvements upon this place, and in 1865, removed to Franklin county, Ohio. He purchased a farm southeast of Fort Jennings, in 1866, on his return to Putnam county, and lived here until he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty-five acres in Greensburg township, in 1872.

John Beard was married on November 2, 1854, at Columbus, Ohio, to Mary Jane Case, a native of New York state, and the daughter of Jacob and Anna Case. They moved to Fairfield county, Ohio, near Runnelsburg in the early days, and there Mrs. Beard lived until her marriage. Two children were born to this marriage : William H., who died in infancy, and Charles W., of Greensburg township. Mrs. Beard died in 1866, and on September 22, 1867, Mr. Beard was married to Mrs. Sophia (Shank) Guyton, who was born in Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, and who was the daughter of Henry and Barbara (Meyers) Shank, natives of Maryland. Henry Shank was born near Hagerstown, Maryland, and was the son of Christian Shank, Sr. Barbara Meyers was born in Maryland, and was the daughter of John and Mary Meyers. She was married in Maryland to Henry Shank, and came here soon after her marriage. They settled north of the Blanchard river, and south of Defiance pike, in the northwestern part of Ottawa township, where they entered the land from the government. The Indians were still here and no roads but Indian paths led from their home to Ottawa. Here her father spent the rest of his life. After his death, the widow moved to a farm she owned neared Kalida, and spent the remainder of her life at that place.

To this second marriage of Mr. Beard, six children were born. Christian Beard is now farming six miles south of Auburn, Indiana. He married Maude Bibler, and they have four children : Joyce, Elsie, Samuel and Charles. Lucy A. became the wife of John Bibler; they live in the northwestern part of Greensburg township ; they have had ten children, of whom two died and eight are living: Flossie, Fay, Velma, Coral, Ella, Delia, Raymond, Dale, Pauline and Woodrow Wilson. John F. lives near Edgerton, Ohio. He married Mary Wynkoop, and they have four children, John Milton, Icy, Preston and Zola. Margaret died in infancy. Ella S. is the wife of Clyde M. Fletcher, and lives on her father's farm. They have one son, Paul Clarence Fletcher. Samuel S. lives south of Kalida, and married Minnie Kirkendall,

In 1874, Mr. Beard erected a substantial dwelling on his farm. In politics, Mr. Beard is a Prohibitionist. In 1857, he was elected justice of the peace, serving until 1864; he was re-elected in 1872, and severed a considerable time since that date. In 1880, Mr. Beard was appointed as land appraiser. He has served as school director, off and on, for a period of thirty-five years. He is naturally interested in education, because of his long experience as a public school teacher, in Jennings and Jackson townships. Mr. Beard has had affiliation with the Masonic order since 1861, being a member of the lodge at Delphos. He has been a prominent Sunday school worker and is a member of the Christian church.

Hiram A. Roberts

In Putnam county there are many enterprising and progressive farmers, who keep fully abreast of all the modern advances in the theory and practice of successful agricuhure; men who are constantly and carefully noting the wonderful experimental and research work of the government and state department of agriculture, and who quickly avail themselves of the profound results of such research, putting to the test on their own farms such official conclusions as seem best adapted to the variety or quality of the soil with which they have to work. These men, in the very nature of things, are making a success of their work. They are not included in that large number of grumblers which may be found in most any community, but are to be found among the even larger class of generous, open-minded, optimistic men, who are the real leaders in the advanced movements of mankind; men whom it is a pleasure to know; men who are the real makers of a community, the natural conservators of a neighborhood's best interests. In this latter class of farmers in this county, there are few who have a larger acquaintance or are better liked than the gentleman whose name is noted above, one of the most popular and successful farmers of Monroe township, whose quiet, unostentatious progress in the community in which he lives, certainly entitles him to be included in the large list of successful men of Putnam county, brief biographies of whom are contained in this interesting and valuable historical work.

David Roberts was a native of Wales, who, with his wife, came to America in the early part of the last century and settled in Allen county, Ohio, where he became a large landowner and a man of much influence in his community, his farm having been situated near the town of Gomar. Upon the death of his wife, in 1844, David Roberts sold his interests in Ohio and moved to Iowa, where he spent the rest of his life.

With the excepttion of two years which he spent in Iowa, Thomas Roberts, father of the immediate subject of this sketch, spent his entire life in Allen county, Ohio, where he died in 1861, at the age of thirty-two years, his son, Hiram A., being at that time but three years of age. Thomas Roberts was a good farmer, ^ highly respected citizen and a man of sterling character. He was married in Allen county to Mary Jane Bussart, who was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, and who moved to Allen county with her parents when she was but six months of age, and there grew to womanhood, making her home in that county for many years. She now makes her home with her son, Hiram A., in this county, being hale and hearty, at the ripe old age of eighty-two.

To Thomas and Mary Jane (Bussart) Roberts were born three children, as follow: John, a well-known resident of Columbus Grove, Putnam county, Ohio; Hiram A., of whom more later, and Sarah E., the widow of Edward Tracy, who now makes her home with her brother in Monroe township. To Edward and Sarah E. (Roberts) Tracy were born four children, Frank, Clarence, John and one who died in infancy. Frank and John make their home with their mother on the farm of their uncle Hiram and Clarence married Carrie Reynolds and is farming in Monroe township, living near Hartsburg.

Hiram A. Roberts left Allen county in 1880, coming to Putnam county, where he bought his present fine farm of seventy-seven acres in Monroe township, on which he since has made his home. On this he erected a modern country home, one of the finest in the county, where, with his mother and sister and the sons of the latter, he is living very happily and comfortably. He is a man of progressive ideas and on his small, compact farm he gets better results than many men obtain from a much larger acreage. The spirit of progress which animates him is reflected in the well-kept appearance of his place, barns, outbuildings, fences and drainage, all bespeaking a farmer who takes a pride in his great calling.

The same spirit that keeps him alive to the needs of his farm, keeps Mr. Roberts fully alive to the needs of the community in which he lives, and he is regarded as among the foremost men of his neighborhood, being ever active in all movements designed to advance the common interest. He is a Republican and in the political campaigns in this county, ever is found promoting the cause of good government. He is a kind son and indulgent brother and his genial manners and high reputation for honesty and integrity make him a prime favorite in his community, wrhere he is regarded with esteem by all who know him, the number of his friends being limited only by the number of his acquaintances.

Dr. Ernest Plummer Lemley

Dr. Ernest Plummer Lemley, devoted to the noble work which his profession implies, has been faithful and indefatigable in his endeavors. He has not only earned the due rewards of his efforts in a temporal way, but has also proved himself eminently worthy to exercise the important functions of his calling, by reason of his ability, his abiding sympathy and his earnest zeal in behalf of his fellow men. His understanding of the science of medicine is regarded by those who know him, as broad and comprehensive. The profession and the public accord to him a distinguished place among the men of his class in the state of Ohio. He has been a life of sincere and persistent endeavor, such as always brings a true appreciation of the real value of human existence - a condition that ever must be prolific of good results in all the relations of life.

Dr. Ernest Plummer Lemley was born on May 31, 1874, at Cassville, Monongalia county, West Virginia. He is the son of Alexander and Lucy (Tucker) Lemley. Alexander Lemley was a native of West Virginia, born there on April 28, 1841. He died on September 26, 1906, at the age of sixty-five. He always lived in West Virginia, and was a life-long farmer and a stanch Republican in politics. He attended the Methodist during all his life, but was not a member'.- As a farmer he cultivated about two hundred and twenty-five acres of land, and was considered successful in all his farming operations. His wife, who was Lucy Tucker before her marriage, was a native of West Virginia, born there on April 11, 1854, and is still living in West Virginia at the age of sixty years. Alexander and Lucy (Tucker) Lemley were the parents of six children, of whom Dr. Ernest Plummer Lemley was the eldest; Mrs. Gertie Core lives in West Virginia; Clyde, Mrs. Elizabeth Core, Herbert and Lena, all live in West Virginia.

Dr. Lemley spent his boyhood days in West Virginia, on the homestead farm, and lived here until he was about twenty years old. He was educated in the common schools and spent two years in the West Virginia State University. Subsequently, he attended the Barnes Medical College at St. Louis,, graduating with the class of 1898. In the fall of that year he began the practice of his profession at Columbus Grove, and continued there for two years^ coming in 1900 to Vaughnsville, to take up the McKinley office and practice. He is a general physician, and is still actively engaged in the practice.

Dr. Lemley was married on August 30, 1900, to Claudia Layman, a native of Putnam county, born in Pleasant township, and a daughter of Josephus and Clarinda (Rorhr) Layman. Dr. and Mrs. Lemley have no children. They have, however, adopted a boy, Richard, and are rearing a girl, Leota Meridith, whom they have, however, not adopted.

Fraternally, Dr. Lemley is a member of the Knights of Pythias and Maccabees at Vaughnsville, and is a Modern Woodman of America at Columbus Grove. Politically, he is a Republican, and has served as township treasurer of Sugar Creek township for two terms, filling this office with efficiency and credit to the people of this township and to himself. Dr. and Mrs. Lemley are members of the Congregational church at Vaughnsville, the Doctor being treasurer of the congregation. He is a member of the County, State and Northwestern Ohio Medical Societies. He is a booster for Vaughnsville and enjoys a large practice, standing, as he does, highly in his community as a man and as a physician.

David Homer Groff

Clearly defined purpose and consecutive effort in the affairs of life will inevitably result in attaining a due measure of success. In following the career of one who has attained such unqualified success by his own efforts, there comes into view the intrinsic individuality which made such an accomplishment possible. But there is granted an objective inspiration and there is kindled at the same time a feeling of respect and admiration. The qualities which have made David Homer Groff one of the prominent and successful farmers of Putnam county, have also won for him the esteem of his fellow citizens. His career has been one of well directed energy, strong determination and honorable methods.

David Homer Groff was born on March 30, 1866, at Weston, Wood county, Ohio. He is the son of Martin Luther and Elizabeth (Campbell) Groff, the former of whom vvas born on February 22, 1830, at Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He left there at the age of twelve years, and came to Weso ton, Ohio, about 1852, where he settled south of the town on a farm, and where he remained until his retirement, when he moved to Weston, Ohio. He died on January 31, 19 14, at the age of eighty-four years. At the time of his death he owned one hundred and twenty acres of land, most of which was divided among his children.

The children born to Martin Luther and Elizabeth (Campbell) Groff are as follow: Electa (Conklin), who lives north of Weston, Ohio; George,, who lives south of Weston, Ohio; David Homer, the subject of this sketch; Charles, who lives at Deshler, Ohio; Ona, born on August 2, 1870, and who died on October 25, 1905 ; Mrs. Vinnie Walsh, who lives in Chicago,, and Mrs. Maude Long, at Cleveland, Ohio.

The mother of these children was born in Crawford county, Ohio, November 25, 1835, and died at the age of sixty-six years, December 23, 1901. She came to Milton township. Wood county, Ohio, from Crawford county,. with her parents about 1855, and was married on December 8, 1861. She was a faithful Christian woman throughout her life, and was beloved by all who knew her. Her brothers served in the War of the Rebellion, and two of them, Enoch and Nelson, returned alive.

David Homer Groff spent his boyhood days at Weston, Wood county,. Ohio. He was reared on the farm and remained on the home place until he was twenty-two years of age, when he went into the milling business. He ran a mill for a year when it burned, and he came to Continental, Ohio,, in the fall of 1890, where he was married. He returned to the old homestead farm, but before going back he ran a feed store for a short time, returning in the spring of 18.91. He farmed the homestead farm for about five years and then bought one hundred and sixty acres of brush land near North Creek, Putnam county, in Monroe township. This land was cleared and ditched and put into shape for farming. Mr. Goff sold this land in 1903 and moved on a farm which he had previously purchased, east of Continental. He was here one year and then came to his present farm of one hundred and sixty acres in 1905. He has since added ninety acres, having about two hundred and fifty acres at the present time. Although this land was nearly all cleared when Mr. Goff purchased it, there were no fences or buildings. All of the improvements have been made by him. In the spring of 191 1 he commenced a modern country residence, which was finished in 191 2. This house has hot water heat, electric lights, etc., and is conceded to be the finest home in the county.

-of John Horace and Laura (Price) Andrews. To this happy union four -children have been born: Floyd, who married Mary Shirley, lives on the home place; Bernice, Beatrice and Ima are at home.

Mr. Groff is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at He is identified with the Republican party, but is more or less independent in his voting. Mrs. Groff is a member of the United Brethren -church, where the children are also communicants. Mr. Groff has not held -any offices, with the exception of that of member of the school board in Wood county, Ohio. He is well and favorably known throughout Putnam -county, and is popular with his neighbors, and, in fact, with all in Monroe township.

Mr. Groff was one of the leading factors in the organization of the Farmers State Bank of Continental, of which he is a director. He, with William H. Lowe and Charles E. Wight, were a committee who drew up plans and caused to be erected the Odd Fellow building at that place.

Rufus E. Gilbert

Ohio has been especially honored in the character and career of her farmers. In every section have been found men born to leadership in agriculture, men who have dominated their communities because of their superior intelligence, natural endowment and force of character. Rufus E. Gilbert is a man well known throughout Putnam county. Mr. Gilbert traces his ancestry back to substantial Irish stock, which has been prominently identified with the history of this country, since its earliest days.

Rufus E. Gilbert was born, February 21, 1844, in Summit county, near Falls, Ohio. He is the son of Jacob C. and Martha A. Butler Jacob C. Gilbert was born in October, 1807, 'North Hero Island, New York, and was reared as a farmer. He received a good practical education, and was married when twenty-five years old, or in 1832, to Mandana Stoughton. She died on July 3, 1832. Upwards of five years later, on January i, 1838, Jacob C. Gilbert married Martha A. Butler, in Atwater, Portage county, Ohio. She was born on November 16, 1820, in New Haven Connecticut, and was the daughter of David and Betsey (Foot) Butler, the former of whom was born in New Haven county, Connecticut, on 2, 1772, and the latter of whom was born in the same county, on August 9, 1 78 1. They remained in Connecticut until 1829, when they emi- grated to Portage county, Ohio, and stayed here until their death. David Butler died on March 29, 1856, and his wife on August 3, 1854. They were members of the Congressional church, and he was an old-line Whig. Mrs. Jacob C. Gilbert's grandfather was Matthew Butler, a native of England, who came to New Haven county, Connecticut, in colonial times. He served in the Continental army during the Revolutionary War, for seven years. He married Ruth Lindley. They had a son, David, who also served in the Revolutionary War, especially as a minute man, at the battle of Long Island. Jacob C. and Martha A. Gilbert had several children : Lucian, Lucius, Ruf us E., the subject of this sketch; Martha, Mary E., who married Henry Wing; Adelaid, deceased; Ida M., who married David Owens, and Prosper L.'

Jacob C. and Martha A. (Butler) Gilbert settled first in Summit county, -Ohio, where both he and his wife taught school. In fact, they met while both were public school teachers. He then came to Cleveland, Ohio, where he spent three years and removed to Putnam county, Ohio, in December, 1858, settling -in Monroe township, on a farm of forty acres. He taught school in Putnam county, and in Defiance county, but most of the time in the former, until his death. On account of poor health he was not able to do farm work. Jacob C. Gilbert died on December 16, 1864, at the age of fifty-seven years and ten months. There were only forty voters in Monroe township when he settled here, and during his life he saw the population of the township grow ^exceedingly. His wife, Martha A. (Butler) Gilbert, died on the old home farm in June, 1903, at the age of eighty-two years and five months. Of the children, heretofore mentioned, who were born to Jacob C. and Martha A. (Butler) Gilbert, only four are now living. Lucius B., who was born on November 2, 1838, and died on August 5, 1839; Lucian De Loss, who was born on September 22, 1840, and died on July 2, 1847; Martha, who was .born on August 20, 1847, and died on April 7, 1857; Mrs. Mary E. Wing, who was born on August 9, 1849, and now living on a farm in Monroe township; Sarah Adelaide was born on July 30, 1854, and died on October 3, 1862; Ida M., who was born on September 15, 1859, and who married David Owens, lives at Continental, Ohio; Prosper L., who was born on July 6, 1863, lives near the Columbia river, in the state of Washington.

Rufus E. Gilbert remained in Cleveland, Ohio, with his parents for three years, after they removed to that city. He attended the public schools of the forest city. He came with his parents to Putnam county, Ohio, and assisted his father with the work of the farm.

tucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North and South Carolina, and Virginia, and participating in all the engagements of the Atlanta campaign. He was honorably discharged on May 25, 1865, and returned home to resume the peaceful pursuits, which his courage and the courage of his fellows had secured to this country.

Mr. Gilbert was married on July 19, 1866, to Mary A. Pope, a native of Putnam county, and a daughter of George and Fanny (Weaver) Pope. Mr. Gilbert settled on the farm where they now live. They cleared most of the farm and have added to it, till they now own a hundred and seventy-one acres. Although Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert live on the farm, they are retired and the farm is rented out. They have no children.

Politically, Mr. Gilbert is a Democrat. He was decennial appraiser of Continental and Monroe township in 1890, and was infirmary director for six years. He and his wife are members of the Mount Zion Chapel Christian church, of Monroe township. Mr. Gilbert is a pleasant man, intelligent and an interesting conversationalist. He is a man well liked and favorably known m this section of Putnam county, and bears a high reputation in the community for honesty.

Merrick Skiver

It is a pleasure to investigate the career of a successful self-made man. Peculiar honor attaches to that individual who, beginning the great struggle of life alone and unaided, gradually overcomes unfavorable environment, removes one by one the obstacles in the pathway of success, and by master strokes of his own force and vitality, succeeds in forging his way to the front and winning for himself a competency. Such is the record of Merrick Skiver, a popular citizen of Monroe township, to whose life and character the following pages are devoted.

Merrick Skiver was born on June 25, 1849, m Highland township. Defiance county, Ohio. He is a son of Isaac and Mary (Wheeler) Skiver, the former of whom was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, on March 12, 1826, and the latter of whom was born in Germany, on May 14, 1830.

The grandfather of Merrick Skiver was David Skiver, who was bom about 1786, in Pennsylvania, and who settled in Tuscarawas county, Ohio in pioneer days. He was married to Sarah Warner. David Skiver was one' of the first settlers in Defiance county, Ohio, and lived there at a time when the Indians and wild beasts roamed the woods. For six years the Indians main- tained a camp near the Skiver family home. David Skiver was a Jacksonian Democrat, and a man who was prominent locally in politics. Mrs. Skiver was a member of the Christian church and the grandmother lived to the advanced age of one hundred and fourteen years. David Skiver was eighty-four years at the time of his death.

Isaac Skiver, the father of Merrick, was reared on a farm in Tuscarawas Ohio, and was a great hunter in his early days. He and his wife were the parents of nine children: Merrick, the immediate subject of this sketch; Margaret, the wife of James Van Vlerah; Regina, the wife of John Alspaugh; George Henry, of Defiance, Ohio; Josephine, the wife of William Austin, of Benson, Alabama; Clara, the wife of William Davis, deceased; Calvin A, a resident of Highland towjiship. Defiance county, Ohio; Anna Jane, deceased; Emma, the wife of Adam Stork, of Flint, Michigan, and Hannah, the wife of John James. Isaac Skiver died at the age of eighty-four years at the old homestead farm, while his wife died at Defiance, Ohio, at the home of a relative.

Merrick Skiver received a good common' school education, and this he has supplemented by home study and by practical business experience, and today he is a well-informed man.

Mr. Skiver was married on August 19, 1873, to Rosella Donaldson, who was born on October 4, 1852, in Union township, Putnam county, Ohio. She is a daughter of Aaron and Sarah A. Donaldson, the former of whom was a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, and who, in turn, was a son of John Donaldson. John Donaldson was born in Maryland in 1784, and married Mary Grubb in 1809, and was a captain in the War of 1812. He died at the age of years. His wife, who was born in 1790, died at the age of eightytwo. Aaron Donaldson was born in 18 10, removed to Putnam county about 1850, settling on eighty acres of land in Union township. He lived on this farm until 1862, when he removed to a farm in Monroe township, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres. Aaron Donaldson married Sarah A. Swayzee, a native of Fairfield county, born on December 20, 1827.

Mr. and Mrs. Merrick Skiver are the parents of seven children : Olive, born on April 30, 1875, married Ora S. Hitchcock, June 15, 1902, lives in Toledo, Ohio; Elise, born on August 23, 1877, lives at home; Lavern! born on January 8, 1880, died May 14, 1884; Anna, born on November 7, 1881, died May I, 1884; Florence, born on January 12, 1886, is at home; Maude,' born on May 21, 1888, became the wife of Creede Porter, October 18, 1910, and lives at Defiance, Ohio, where Mr. Porter is employed in a steel mill; Violet, born on April 23, 1894, is at home.

When Mr. Merrick first settled on his present farm, the land was covered with swamps, and entirely unreclaimed. So ably has he directed its improvement and cultivation, that his place is now one of the finest and most productive farms in Putnam county, being equipped with a thorough system of dramage. Mr. Skiver has seen Putnam county transformed from a swampy wilderness into a favored and prosperous farming region. He is, in every respect, a successful farmer.

Mr. Skiver has never been active in political matters, but he served as school director for a number of years. He is not active now. He is a congenial man, a loving father and a kind husband, and has always been a good provider for the wants of his family. He has a fine farm and believes in progressive methods of farming, his farm proving this better than anything that can be said. He has been a hard worker, frugal in his habits and has acquired more than a substantial competence for his- old age.

John W. Ernst

The success of men in business or any vocation depends upon character as well as upon knowledge. Business demands confidence, and where that is lacking, business ends. In every community some men are known for their upright lives, strong common sense and moral worth, rather than for their wealth or political standing. Their neighbors and acquaintances respect them the younger generation heed their example, and when they wrap the drapery of their couches about them and lie down to pleasant dreams, posterity listens with reverence to the story of their useful lives. John W. Ernst, a wellknown farmer of Monroe township, Putnam county, Ohio, who, until a few years ago, was the proprietor of the leading livery barn at Continental and who is now a prosperous farmer, is a man who belongs to this class.

Mr. Ernst was born on October i, 1864, in Monroe, Allen county Ohio He IS the son of David and Mary Jane (Seibert) Ernst. David Ernst was born m 183 1, Carroll county, Ohio, and was the son of Henry Ernst, a native of Germany, and a pioneer in Carroll county, Ohio. David Ernst was reared as a farmer, and followed this vocation throughout his entire life His father also, was a farmer and a stanch member of the Methodist church Mrs. Mary Jane (Seibert) Ernst, the mother of David, was a native of Carroll county, Ohio, and the daughter of Samuel Seibert. She was born in 1836, and IS still living at Cairo, Ohio.

To David and Mary Jane (Seibert) Ernst, eleven children were born: Samuel B., Sarah, Oliver A., Saloma, John W., Daniel C, Simon A., Burton H., William, Mary B. and Dollie May.

David Ernst was a soldier in the Civil War. After serving his enlistment, he returned home and devoted the remainder of his life to his family and to his home, having, before his death in July, 1892, acquired a substantial competence.

John W. Ernst, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm and lived with his parents until he was twenty-one years old. He received a good common-school education and was well equipped for life. In 1887, Mr. Ernst engaged in the livery business in Continental, and continued in this^ occupation until April, 1906, when he sold out to Charles Kalt, and retired to his splendid farm of forty acres west of Continental. At the time Mr. Ernst sold his livery business, he also sold his property in Continental. Mr. Ernst now follows general farming and the raising of grain and live stock. He is a man well known for his sterling character and dependable habits. He is a good judge of horses and now owns a fine white Arabian stallion. He has been closely identified with the history of Continental and was one of the pioneers of this town. He has witnessed many improvements and changes and has seen the town grow from small beginnings to its present proportions. Mr. Ernst has added to his original forty acres, until he now owns a hundred and five acres, all of which is located in Monroe township, Putnam county.

John W. Ernst was married on September 11, 1892, to Mary E. Varner who was bom in Putnam county, Ohio, and who was the daughter of Isaiah Varner. Mrs. Ernst was born on September 26, 1869, in Greensburg township, and died on April 12, 191 1, at the age of forty-one years, six months and fifteen days. She became a Christian early in life, uniting with the Methodist Episcopal church, of Continental. During her entire life she was a loving wife and a kind mother, and at the time of her death left a large circle of friends and relatives, including a father, mother, six brothers, twosisters and five children.

To Mr and Mrs. Ernst six children were born : George F., who was born ,on November i, 1893, married Augusta Wright and lives on a f arm ,n Palmer township, Putnam county. They have one child Mary Marcelle. The other five children are: Manford Hebrew, born on March 20, 1896, Dewey Dow, born on May 22, 1898, died on July 6, 1899; Otto Kenneth, born on May 23, 1900; Oliver C, born on February 19, 1903, died on February 20, 1903, and Fanny Lucile, born on May 12, 1907. Three, therefore, are living on the home farm.

Mr Ernst, in politics, is a Democrat. He has served both as a member -of the town council of Continental and also as a member of the school board. He is one of Monroe township's trustees at present. In his many years residence in Continental and vicinity, he has come to be one of the best-known -citizens in this section of Putnam county. John W. Ernst is a man of temperate habits, honest in his business dealings and cordial in his relations with his fellow men.

William H. Lowe

Among the representative farmers of Putnam county is the subject of this sketchrwho is the owner of many splendid acres of fine farming land !n Monroe township. William H. Lowe is carrying on the various departments of his enterprise with that discretion and energy which are sure to Id their natural sequence m definite success. He has always been a hard worker, a good manager and a man of economical habits. He is also foitunately situated in -a thriving farming community, and it is no wonder that he stands today in the front ranks of the farmers o that favored lo- Mr. Lowe has also been a successful carpenter and has several hundred buildings to his credit in Putnam county. ^ . ^ ,^

Stephen S. Lowe was born in July, 1853, in Muskingum county, Ohio, and is the son of Benedict and Lucinda Lowe, who were natives of Ireland. Stephen S Lowe came to this county, where he remained for one year and then removed to Allen county, Ohio, near Delphos. Here he remained for three years, or until 1881. He removed to Putnam county, Ohio, m 1882, near Cloverdale, when the country was«mostly in a wild state. He was a shoemaker by trade and lost his sight and has been blind for the past sixteen years. He now lives with his daughter at Cloverdale, Ohio. He is a member of the Catholic church, and in poHtics is a Democrat. Mrs. Laura E. Lowe was born in 1844 in Illinois and came to Fairfield county, Ohio, when a small child. Her parents settled near Lancaster. She died in March! 1898, at the age of fifty-four years. She and her husband had six children: William H.; Mrs. Lula Spitnale, who lives in Perry township; Stephen, who Hves at Charlevoix, Michigan; Mrs. Elizabeth Andrews, of Lima, Ohio; Mrs. Ida Oakes, of St. Joseph, Missouri, and Mrs. Zoe Kippler, of Lima' Ohio.

William H. Lowe came with his parents to Vinton county, Ohio, when about three years old. Subsequently he removed with them to Allen county and finally to Putnam county, near Cloverdale. Here he grew up and attended the township schools. He learned the carpenter's trade early in hfe and did much work in Putnam county. He was a foreman at Toledo, Ohio, for three years, and has two hundred and fifty-seven buildings to his credit. Mr. Lowe came from Continental, Ohio, to Toledo, and settled on his present farm. He has a farm of eighty acres, south of the place where he lives, m Monroe township. He is interested in a partnership arrangement, embracing some six hundred acres of land. He removed to the farm where he now lives one year after his marriage and has erected all of the buildings himself. He has a splendid farm and excellent buildings. He is a progressive farmer and believes thoroughly in advanced methods.

Mr. Lowe is a student of farming and has watched with pride the possibilities afforded by the use of modern appliances in the saving of labor with the greatest amount of efficiency. As he has studied he has planned and today has erected upon his beautiful farm a barn one hundred by forty feet, that not only stores one hundred and sixty tons of hay, but also affords shelter for a sixty horsepower gas tractor, with a gang of eight fourteeninch plows.

William H. Lowe was married on February 15, 1902, to Iva A Bibler, who was bom on November 20, 1876, close to Dupont, in Perry township. She IS the daughter of Samuel and Mary (Ridenour) Bibler To this union four children have been born, all of whom are hving at home They are Ruhla L., Owen B., Margarite A. and Richard William.

Mr. Lowe is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows the Free and Accepted Masons and the Modern Woodmen of America at Continental. He is more or less identified with the Republican party but is mdependent in vote. He has never aspired to. ofifice. He is not identified With any church, but attends the United Brethren church at Continental of which Mrs. Lowe is a member. William H. Lowe is a quiet man, wh» makes no pretensions and claims to superior virtue, yet he is. a man of intelligent and sterling qualities and bears a high reputation in Monroe township, where he has lived for many years.

David Wisterman

To attain a worthy citizenship by a life that is always honored and respected even from childhood deserves more than mere mention. It is no easy task to resist the many temptations of youth and early manhood, and to establish a character in the minds and hearts of associates that will remain an unstained tribute for aU times. One may take his place in public life through some vigorous stroke of public policy, and even abide in the hearts of his. friends and neighbors, but to reach the same position by leading a consistent upright life, without craving for exaltation merely for selfish ends, is worthy of the highest praise and commendation. A man who has lived after thisfashion is David Wisterman, a well-known farmer of Monroe township, a. veteran of the Civil War, and a valiant, courageous and valuable citizen in times of peace. Mr. Wisterman has always been ready to assist in public movements with laudable preferment, and from many standpoints deserves, the high esteem with which he is held by the people of Putnam county, where he is so well known.

George Joseph Wisterman was born in 1797, at the head of Lake Geneva,, near Seneca, New York, and here grew to manhood. In his youth he received a liberal education, having been prepared for a minister in the Lutheran church. He was well known as a German and Latin scholar, and taught school for a time during his younger days. He studied medicine under the direction of Doctor Shingler, and practiced this profession for many years. He also learned the trade of the journeyman tanner, and upon coming to- Putnam county, in 1836, he followed this occupation. In the meantime, however, he had lived in Wayne county for a time. He built a tannery at Kalida,. the first one in this section of the state. In 1846, he sold the tannery, and settled on a farm in Greensburg township, near the Blanchard river. Subsequently, he operated a saw and grist-mill on the river, some five miles from the farm. In 1849, he went to California, returning three years later, and settling on the old farm in Greensburg township, where he died in January, 1853. He was an old-line Whig in politics, and for a number of years filled the office of justice of the peace. George Joseph Wisterman was twice married, the first time to a Miss Pontius, by whom he had three children, Henry, Joseph and Isabella, all of whom are now deceased. Joseph owned about a quarter section of land in Wayne county, where Massilon, Ohio, now stands. After the death of his first wife, George Joseph Wisterman married Elizabeth Cigler, who was born in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on September 30, 1817, and who migrated from Pennsylvania to Wayne county, Ohio, with her parents, Henry Cigler and wife, who were natives of Pennsylvania. From Wayne county, Ohio, they came to Putnam county, settling at Kalida, where Elizabeth Cigler was married to George Joseph Wisterman. Eight children were born to this marriage: Sarah, who died on February 28, 1852; David, who is the subject of this sketch; Elizabeth is deceased; Isaac lives in Florida; Jonas and Mary live in Kansas; Mrs. Catherine Croft Moree lives in Bowling Greene, Ohio; Mrs. Susan Miller lives in Florida, with her brother, Isaac. George Joseph Wisterman died in January, 1852, at the age of fifty-six; his wife died at the age of seventy-five years.

The paternal grandfather of David Wisterman was George Joseph Wisterman, Sr., born in Wurtemburg, Germany, and who came to America in 1795, settling near Buffalo, New York, where he married a Miss Brosius., He was a fine German and English scholar and a profound student of Greek Hebrew and Latin. For many years he was a leading Lutheran preacher in New York state, and was known far and near for his scholarly attainments

David Wisterman, the subject of this sketch, lived in Kalida, leaving there, however, at the age of eight years, and removing with his parents to Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio. He stayed in Greensburg township for one year, and then removed to Perry township. He attended school m Perry township, and after having finished his education, taught for thirty-eight terms, mostly in Putnam county, though some of his professional work was done in Paulding county, in Bureau county, Illinois, and in Defiance county. Mr. Wisterman educated himself by home study principally. He attended Kenyon Normal School, however, at Gambier, Ohio an institution endowed by Lord Kenyon of England. It was one of the best schools m the country at that time and one of the first great colleges in the West^ Mr. Wisterman also attended McCoy's commercial school, at Columbus, Ohio, and was a student there in 1861, when the war broke out pany E, One Hundred and Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, attached to the Army of the West, and he was discharged for disability at the end of thirteen months. During his service in the army, he contracted lung trouble in the wet marshes and, although he underwent an operation, he was finally dismissed. He was in part of the battle of Perryville, when Bragg was driven out of Kentucky, and served six months at Bowling Green. After the war he returned home.

Subsequently, Mr. Wisterman left for Auburn, Indiana, for treatment of lung trouble contracted while serving in the army. Finally, he studied medicine, and practiced for many years, but quit the practice in 1904. During the time he was practicing medicine, he was also a farmer, and had a hundred and fifty-seven acres where the old Wisterman farm is now located. Here, Mr. Wisterman built an elevator, placing his son Harvey in charge of it for some time, when it was ^finally sold to Toledo people, who now operate it. In 1904, Mr. Wisterman sold his farm and removed to Continental, where he purchased property for his wife. He, however, went to the soldiers' home, and lived there for five years, returning occasionally on furloughs. Later, he purchased his present farm of thirty-seven acres, and lives now a quiet' retired life. He has been more or less an invalid since leaving the army.

David Wisterman was married on March 17, 1864, to Leandra Brower, a native of Putnam county, Ohio, born about four miles north of Kalida! along the Blanchard river, and the daughter of Brockman and Angeline (Stalnacher) Brower. To this happy union nine children have been born. Chauncey Burton and Elizabeth, the two eldest children, are deceased; Viola M., the seventh child, is also deceased; William H. married Florence Mullett, and lives in Toledo, Ohio, where he is a machinist; they have one child, Howard; Thomas C. married Anna Skelley, who is now deceased; he is a farmer living about one mile from Rawson, Ohio; there are three children, Elizabeth, Blanche and George D. ; Harvey M. married Ardella Miller, who is now deceased; they had four children, Robert M., Helen prances, Edna and Paul; two of these children, Robert M. and Paul, are deceased; Harvey M. lives at home, and is at present Putnam county representative of the State Life Insurance Company of Indianapolis, Indiana; he also deals in real estate. Harvey M. Wisterman is a splendid type of man, well known and popular throughout Putnam county. Alexis E. married Flossie Snyder, and they live at Union City, Tennessee. He is a contractor and builder, and has a plant where cement and brick blocks are manufactured. They have five children Catherine, Violet, Jessie H., William H. and Dorothy. George J married

Alta Simmons, and they live at Rudolph, Wood county, Ohio; they have three children, Harry C, Harvey Edward and Georgia Elizabeth. He is a farmer and also is engaged in the oil business. Myrtle M. married H. C. Parrett.

Mrs. David Wisterman's father, Brockman Brower, vs^as a native of North Carolina, and his wife, Angeline (Stalnacher) Brower, was a native of Virginia. They were pioneer settlers in Putnam county, Ohio. Brockman Brower was an influential man in the Methodist church, and a strong Republican. His father, Frederick Brower, was a native and resident of Randolph county. North Carolina, where he married Nellie Staley. He served in the War of 1812, and was a prominent man in the South.

David Wisterman is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic Post at Kalida, Ohio. With the exception of township clerk, which he held for one term, Mr. Wisterman has not been active in politics. He is naturally conservative in pohtics, and although he votes somewhat independently, he is identified with the Republican party. He has been a great reader and a student of natural history. He is well informed upon all subjects, a free thinker, and a man who believes in the greatest freedom of thought and conscience. His advice is much sought in this section of Putnam county, where he has lived so long and so usefully.

Charles Varner

In every community are to be found individuals who, by reason of pronounced ability and forceful personality, rise superior to the majority and command the homage of their fellows ; who, by revealing to the world true, resplendent virtues, perseverance in effort and directing purpose, never fail to attain positions of honor and trust and become, in the full sense of the term, leaders of men. In this class is that well-known gentleman, successful lawyer and real estate dealer, Charles Varner, of Continental, Putnam county, Ohio. He is a man who ranks among the leading citizens of Putnam county, and who, for a number of years, has borne an influential part in the affairs of Putnam county, where he resides.

Charles Varner was, born on January 27, 1872, in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Isaiah and Fanny (Landis) Varner, the former of whom was the son of Jacob and Eliza (Guyton) Varner. Jacob Varner was a native of Virginia, as was also his wife.

He left Virginia to come to Ohio in pioneer days and was among the early settlers in this county. Isaiah Varner was born in Greensburg township in 1842. Fanny Landis was born in the same township in 1843 Isaiah Varner grew to manhood on the home place, known as the old Jacob Varner homestead, and was reared as a farmer. With the exception of a short time spent outside of the county, Isaiah Varner has remained on the original one hundred and sixty acres, where he still lives, although he is retired at the age of seventy-two. His wife is also living.

To Mr. and Mrs. Isaiah Varner ten children were born: Emma deceased; Maggie, who is at home; Mrs. John Ernst, who died in 1911' Charles, the subject of this sketch; Jacob, of DeKalb county, Indiana- Jerry, who also lives in DeKalb county; Martin, who lives in Wilhams coiinty, Ohio; Curtis, who is at home; Mrs. George Stauffer, who lives' in Ottawa; and Chester, who lives in Hammond, Indiana.

Charles Varner grew up on his father's farm and was educated in the common schools. He attended the normal school at Angola, Indiana for three or four terms, after which he returned to Putnam county and taught school for about eight years. Subsequently, he attended Ada College and was graduated in 1894 from the pharmaceutical course He then worked m a drug store at Continental, Ohio, and while here, he read law and was admitted to the bar in 1902, He began to practice in that year m Continental and during his practice, has also handled real estate loans and insurance. Mr. Varner is still active in this business.

Charles Varner was married on September 18, 1901, to Mae E Eberly who was born on January 26, 1879, in Lucas county, Ohio, -and who is the daughter of Benjamin and Jennie (Gorill) Everly. To this happv union five children have been born: Harriett, Charles Gorill, Hope, Theodora and one who died in infancy.

Charles Varner was at one time an- active member of the Knights of Pythias, but is no longer a member. He is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons No. 570, the chapter and council at Ottawa, and the commandery at Defiance, Ohio. He is a member of Lodge No. 869, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, at Continental, Ohio. Mr. Varner is a stanch Republican. He was an alternate delegate to the Republican national convention at Chicago, m 19 12. He served as mayor of Continental for one term following 1901, and was city solicitor for four terms. He has been an active member of the school board. Religiously, Mr. Varner and his family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In a personal way Charies

Varner is a congenial young man and well liked in his town and township. He is a good business man and bears a high reputation for honesty and integrity in the community where his professional labors have been performed.

Victor Noirot

Putnam county is fortunate in the number and character of its farmers, and much of the material prosperity of the county can be attributed to the fact that its farmers have kept abreast of the times. It can hardly be questioned that the farmer is an index to the civilization of a community. If the farmers are progressive and up-to-date, it follows that the standard of living in that community will be higher. Thousands of banks have been organized within the last few years in order to supply the needs of the farmers, and according to one authority, the farmer and his crop furnish the bulk of the money for most of the smaller banks throughout the United States. The wholesome living, which is the good fortune of the farmer, is a big factor in keeping up the general tone of a county. The business men of the towns are drawing the men for their employees from the country, and everywhere it is noted that the men who are rising to prominence in the various activities of life were born and reared on the farm. Putnam has long been known as one of the very best farming counties of the state, and its excellent farmers have been one of the greatest factors in the material advancement of the county. Among the many excellent farmers of Putnam county there is no one who stands higher in the estimation of his neighbors than Victor Noirot, of Monroe township.

Lawrence Noirot was the son of Francis C. and Frances (Raclor) Noirot, the former of whom was born in 1798, in the village of Boncourt, County Manly, department of Hontmarn, France, and united in marriage to Frances Raclor in 1823, at the same village. Frances Raclor was bom in the village where she was married, in December, 1800, and died on February 28, 1898. He died September 26, 1866, in Henry county, Ohio. Before leaving France, Francis Noirot was mayor of Boncourt, France. They came to America with their family on October 27, 1853, and finally settled at Findley, Hancock. county, Ohio, with their children, Frances, Nicholas, Claude, Anna, Mary, Celestian, John and Velaria. One child, Magdelena, had died in

France, and one son, Lawrence, came afterward. He was the father of the subject of this sketch. They came by way of New York City to Hancock county, and were farmers there for a time. Later, they removed to Putnam county, and here were among the early settlers, experiencing all the privationsof pioneer life. Subsequently, they removed to Henry county, Ohio.

Lawrence Noirot, the father of Victor, was born on August 9, 1830, in France, and grew up there, coming to America at the age of twenty-six, in 1856. His father, mother and family, had come three years previously, in 1853. Lawrence Noirot came immediately to Hancock county by way of New Orleans. While in the South he contracted the yellow fever, and was laid up for three years in Hancock county, Ohio. Lawrence Noirot was married in 1856, to Mary Bouvier (a daughter of Claude Bouvier), a native of France, born on January 6, 1840. He was a farmer in Hancock county for a time, but later, in 1861, removed to Putnam county, and settled in Palmer township, where he farmed until March, 1887, when he moved to Defiance county, Ohio, where he farmed till his death, in August, 1867, at the age of sixty-seven years. He owned one hundred and sixty acres of land in Defiance county. Mrs. Mary Noirot, who was Mary Bourvier before her marriage, died on December 24, 191 1, at the age of seventy-one years. Her parents were farmers and early settlers of Hancock county, Ohio, where they lived until their death. Lawrence and Mary (Bouvier) Noirot had seven children. Victoria married John C. Oakley, of Palmer township. Lawrence was the second child. Josephine married Edward Lafontaine, of Palmer township. Louis lives in Michigan, William A. lives at Galyard, Michigan, and Sophia, the only child who died.

Victor Noirot lived in Hancock county, and was four years of age when he was brought to Putnam county, Ohio, by his parents, in 1861. With the exception of about seven years spent in Henry county, Ohio, he has lived in Putnam county all his life. He left home at the age of twenty-nine years. Mr. Noirot owned forty acres in Henry county, and sold out and came to Putnam county, where he purchased sixty acres in Monroe township, where he now resides and carries on general farming. He removed to his present farm in 1895.

Mr. Noirot was married on November 23, 1886, to Catherine Williams, a native of Palmer township, born on February 16, 1868, and the daughter of Michael and Mary Ann (Frankhart) Williams, the former of .whom was a native of Germany and the latter of whom, also, was born in Germany, in Luxemburg. Mary Ann Frankhart came to America with her parents at the age of seven years.

To Mr. and Mrs. Victor Noirot three children have been born. OHver married Flossie Beemer, and lives in Galyard, Michigan. He is a farmer there. They have no children. Viola married Grover Beemer, and lives at Old Fort, Ohio. They had one child, Victor Emanuel, who is deceased, Blanche, the third child, lives at home.

Mr. Noirot is not a member of any lodge. He has been a member of the school board, and justice of the peace in Palmer township for one term. Heserved two terms as township clerk in Palmer township, being elected at theage of twenty-one years. He served as township trustee of Monroe township, for two terms, and was on the school board for about twelve years. He wasalso township ditch supervisor for three terms, and is still active. Likewise,, he has served as justice of the peace in Monroe township, and served several, times upon the election board, and on numerous occasions as presiding judge of this board. Politically, Mr. Noirot is a stanch Democrat. Religiously, he and his wife and family are members of the Catholic church at. North Creek,, in Palmer township. They are highly respected residents of Putnam county' and entitled to the free and generous esteem accorded them by their neighborsand friends.

Samuel M. Dickey

One of Monroe township's well-known farmers and stock raisers who^ is deserving of a place in this volume, is Samuel M. Dickey, a man of courage, self-reliance and integrity of purpose. As a consequence of these qualities, during his entire life, he has stood high in the estimation of hisneighbors and friends, whose interests he has always sought to promote. Mr. Dickey has been honored by the people of Perry township, where he formerly lived, and, in 1905, came very near being elected as sheriff of Putnam county, having lost out by a narrow margin. He has been a successful contractor, but now confines his attention wholly to farming.

Samuel M. Dickey was born on September 25, 1856, in Perry township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Jacob and Nancy E. (Hutchinson) Dickey.

Jacob Dickey was born on March 16, 1829, in Holmes countv, Ohio, and died at his home near Continental, Ohio, on April 10, 191 1' at the age of eighty-two years and twenty-five days. He came with his parents to Putnam county in 1842, when that country was a vast wilderness. He was married to Nancy E. Hutchinson on August 25, 1852, and in the fall of that year they came to their present farm in Perry township, wliere they -both continued to hve until death. Together they suffered the hardships of pioneer hfe and experienced many joys and sorrows. They built a log cabin in the woods and after their marriage lived in it for three years. Jacob Dickey then rented a farm of one hundred and seven acres and farmed it for two years, when he came to his farm in Perry township. With the exception of Samuel M., the subject of this sketch, ta.\\ the children were born on the homestead farm. Jacob Dickey was the son of John and Mary (Deeds) Dickey, who came from Holmes county to Putnam county in 1842, and settled on a farm in Perry township close to the river, where they both died. Jacob Dickey was at oen time an active member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, but was not at the time of his death. He was township trustee,, justice of the peace for many years, and a man of wide influence in the local councils of the Democratic party. He was not a member of any church. To Jacob and Nancy Dickey, nine children were born: G. W., of Cannelsburg, Indiana; Samuel M., whose history is here presented; Mrs. Lena Spitnale, of Perry township; Frank, who lives on the_old home farm; Mrs. Sanford Smith, of Continental; W. M., of Lima, Ohio; Mrs. W. H. Harmon, -of Morley, Missouri; H. K., who also lives at Morley, and Mrs. John Camburn, of Amber, Pennsylvania. The mother of these children died on January 17, 1898, at the age of sixty years, having been born on Tanuarv 19. 1838. ^

Samuel M. Dickey remained on the home farm until his marriage and then farmed for about sixteen years near Dupont, Ohio, where he built a home. Subsequently, he came to Monroe township to a farm of forty acres, where he now lives. When Mr.- Dickey moved to this farm, it was coA-ered with timber and was more or less in' a wild condition He has cleared and ditched the farm, and in 191 1 built a fine barn. He owns a fine residence and now has an ideal farm, and is known as one of the best farmers of Putnam county. He takes a great pride in this farm and is known as a good judge of stock. Mr. Dickey believes in progressive farming. He is a capable carpenter and learned this trade for his own benefit, building his own home. He followed contracting in Putnam county for about twelve years, but is no longer engaged in this work.

Samuel M. Dickey w^as married on April 23, 1879, to Emma Lutz a native of Putnam county and the daughter of George and Justenia (Weaver) Lutz. To this union, one son, Joseph, has been born. Joseph

Winifred Hikson and lives at Alexandria, Indiana, where he is a teacher in the high school, now teaching his second term there. He has taught school for several years, and was principal of the school at Continental, Ohio, and also at Mt. Sterling, Ottawa and Wilmington. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in Indiana in 1912, but has never practiced, as he prefers to teach.

At one time, Samuel M. Dickey was active in the Knights of Pythias, but is no longer so. He w'as a candidate for sheriff in 1905 on the Democratic ticket, but was defeated by a narrow margin. He was, for a period^ assessor of Perry township. Although Mr. and Mrs. Dickey are not members of any church, they are moved by strong religious convictions and are Christians, nevertheless. Mr. Dickey is a man of excellent habits and sterling character; is quiet in his manner and conservative in his actions, and is known to be honest and upright in all of his dealings with his fellowmen.

Frederick William Schroeder

That nothing is impossible to the man of determination and pluck is proved every day, and an example of this is the story of Frederick W. Schroe- -der, who located on his present farm in 1887 when the land was uncleared and choked with swamps. By hard, persistent effort the land was cleared, drained, fenced and improved until, today, it is one of the model places of the county. The house is modern, being equipped with furnace, electric lights and other conveniences. The barn and other outbuildings testify to the industry of the owner and are a credit to the county.

Mr. Schroeder was born on April 14, 1861, in Greensburg township, Putnam county, the son of Carl and Agnes (Hoenbrink) Schroeder, who were the parents of ten children as follows : Mrs. Anna Siebeneck, Mrs. Mary Meyer, Frank, William, who died in 1900; John, of Liberty township, Putnam county; Frederick W. ; Andrew, who died on November 26, 1914; Henry, of Greensburg township; Ignatius, also of Greensburg township, on the old home place, which has been in the family for over eighty years, and Mrs. Theresa Toby, also of Greensburg township.

In 1834 Nicholas Schroeder came to America from Ostercappeln, Germany, bringing with him his son, Carl, who was born on December 22, 1827 and who became the father of Frederick William. Nicholas entered one hundred and sixty acres of government land in Greensburg township, Put- nam county. The land was wooded and swampy, but by hard work was. made into an excellent farm. The land, which was close to the Blanchard river, was drained by Carl, who farmed the place all his life and achieved prominence in the community. He died on September 21, 1908, aged eighty years and eight months.

Agnes Schroeder was a native of Glandorf, Germany, who came to the United States some years later than did her future husband. She was born on February 13, 1826, and died on April 19, 191 1, aged eighty-five years, two months and six days. She was a loving mother, who endeared herself ta her family and to her neighbors, and her death was regretted by a great number of friends. She and her husband were the parents of the family of children who subsequently proved that the parents reared their children wisely and well.

The youth of Frederick Schroeder was spent on the home farm, and he received a common-school education, supplemented by the experience of hard work. He located on his present farm in 1887 which he immensely improved, and is now devoted to general farming, the raising of grain and the feeding of live stock. The farm on which he lives contains eighty acres while he owns a place of seventy-four acres in Ottawa township, which he also cultivates.

The marriage of Mr. Schroeder and Regina Moenter occurred on October 26, 1887, his wife being the daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Wolfhorst) Moenter, who were the parents of nine children: Anna, who died in infancy; Anna Mary, deceased; Regina; Henry B., deceased; Henry, now living on the homestead in Marion township, Allen county, Ohio; Frank, also of Allen county; Mrs. Mary Pohlman, of Allen county; Clara and Rosa, both deceased. To Frederick Schroeder and his wife were born eight children, namely : Agnes, born on February 14, 1889, married Bernard Ellerbrock, and they farm the Ellerbrock homestead, south of Glandorf, in Ottawa township; they have two children, Norbert and Sylvester. The remainder of the children, who live at home are : Cecilia E., born on April 18, 1891 ; Leo C, born on March 24, 1893; Felix, born on January 5, 1895; Lucy M 'bora on January 5, 1897; Elenora, born on March 4, 1899; Edward John, born on July 25, 1901 ; and Clara T., born on September 26, 1904.

Frank Moenter, who also was a native of Germany, was born in 1840- and died in April, 1896. His wife was a native of Fort Jennings, Putnam county, and was born on January 17, 1843, and died on October 5 1913 at the age of seventy. Frank Moenter came to America when he was about

years of age, his parents locating on a farm in Marion township, AUen county, Ohio, near Delphos. The original place contained eighty acres, but hundred and twenty acres were accumulated eventually. He was a popular man, by reason of his fine, unassuming nature.

Mr. Schroeder is a stanch member of the Democratic party, and is .affiliated to the congregation of St. Mary's Catholic church. He is a director the German Mutual Farmers' Fire Insurance Company, of Glandorf, Ohio, which position he has held the last three years. Mr. Schroeder is a quietmannered gentleman, with a whole-hearted, unassuming personality, which has gained him many friends.

Frank J. Verhoff

Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, never fails of success. It carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individuality and acts as a powerful stimulus to others. The greatest results in life are often attained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunities for acquiring experience of the best kind, and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for sel f-improvement.

Frank J. Verhofif, who is numbered among the sterling citizens and progressive farmers of Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, was born on June 22, 1864, on the parental farm in the same township and county. He is the son of Theodore and Elizabeth (Egbers) Verhoff, pioneer residents of Greensburg township. A full account of the paternal ancestry will be found elsewhere in this history of Putnam county, Ohio.

The subject of this review received his education in the schools of Glandorf, Ohio, and in his youth worked on his father's farm, and early learned the secrets of successful agriculture, a vocation to which he has devoted his entire life. He is now the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of choice farming land, the original tract of eighty acres in section 29 was deeded to him by his father, to which was added, by purchase,, forty acres in section 30, and, later, he purchased eighty acres just across in section 29, besides another tract of one hundred and twenty acres, which lies just north of the ongmal farm, forty acres of which is in section 19 and eighty in section 29.

The father had erected the original farm buildings, to which the subject added a number of new buildings, making a total of eight fine farm and residence buildmgs. Mr. Verhoff does not specialize in the raising of any particular kmd of crop, but gives careful attention to the rotation of such crops as interest him, keeping his land in the very best of condition and realizing a harvest that proves his farming profitable.

Frank J. Verhoff was married on November 6, 1889, to Elizabeth Hamberg, who was born in Osnabrock, Province of Hanover, Germany and is a daughter of Henry and Mary (Mudler) Hamberg, natives of c'ermany. Mrs. Verhoff came to this country when she was but a child of fourteen, accompanied by a brother, Henry, who settled on a farm near Glandorf Putnam county, Ohio. Besides the subject's wife, the maternal parents had four children who remained in the old country, Herman, George, Mary and Bernardina.

Soon after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Verhoff they took up then residence on the portion of the farm located in section 29, in Greensburgtownship, Putnam county, and to them were born nine children, named as follow: Magdelena, August 17, 1890; Emma Mary, September 18, 189-^- Alphonse T., October 12, 1895; Francis K., July 3, 1898; Loretta Mary' January 17, 1901 ; Edward W., June 30, 1903; Amos ]., October 6, 1906; Urban C., February i, 1909; and Otham A., June 3, 1912. Of these children, Magdelena became the wife of Charles Recker,Vnd they live on a farm near Glandorf, Ohio. To this union one child was born, Albert U., July 2, 1912. Emma Mary became the wife of Benjamin Recker, and are now living on his farm near Glandorf, Ohio. To this union no children have been born.

Frank J. Verhoff's well-directed ^efforts in the practical affairs of life, his capable management of all his own interests, and his sound judgment have brought him well-earned prosperity, his life demonstrating what may be accomplished by the man of energy and ambition who is not afraid to work, and who has the perseverance to continue his labors. He raises thoroughbred and Shorthorn Durham cattle and Poland China hogs. Good natured, straightforward, unassuming, he commands the respect of all with whom he comes in contact and his friends are in number as his acquaintances Politically, Mr. Verhoff is a firm believer in the old-time principles of Democracy; religiously, he is an active member of St. Michael's Catholic church, of Kalida, Ohio, and among the congregation is known to be a liberal donor to all meritorious movements toward the advancement of charity and religion.

Henry Philip Schafer

Henry Philip Schafer, one of the members of the well-known Schafer family, of Putnam county, Ohio, and a prosperous farmer in Monroe township, is well known in this section of Ohio. In the veins of the Schafer family flows the blood of the German nobility, Henry Philip Schafer being a distant lineal descendant from Baron Hempleman, of Hesse Castle, Germany. Many years ago the Schafer family was founded in this country,, where no rank of nobility is recognized, and where the merit of the individual citizen is the measure of his worth. In public and private life, however, the Schafer family in the country of their adoption has fulfilled the worthy traditions of their noble-born ancestors.

Born on September ii, 1864, in Palmer township, Putnam county, Ohio,. Henry Philip Schafer is a son of William and Mary (Morris) Schafer, who,, at the time of his birth, were residents of North Creek. Mr. Schafer's paternal grandparents, Philip Jacob and Elizabeth Schafer, came to this country from Germany, and here established the family. Philip Jacob Schafer died, about the year 1840, in Koenig Hessen, Darmstadt, Germany. The maternal grandfather, Henry Morris, whose wife was Margaret Morris, was the first judge in Putnam county, Ohio.

Henry Philip Schafer's father, William Schafer, was born at Koenig Hessen, Darmstadt, Germany, on February 4, 1839, and passed away at North Creek, Putnam county, Ohio, January i, 1903. His devoted wife,. Mrs. Mary (Morris) Schafer, the daughter of Judge Morris, and a faithful and loving helpmate throughout his life, was born on August 5, 1845, in Monroe county, Ohio, on October 10, 1902. Of their family of twelve children, seven were sons and five were daughters. All are now living, except Laura May, the next to the youngest, who died on September i, 1903. The names of these children in the order of their birth are as follow : Henry Phihp and John S., of North Creek, Ohio; Mrs. Margaret Jackson, of Gladstone, Michigan; William W., of Greensburg township, Putnam county; George L., of Defiance county, Ohio; Charles C, of North Creek ;- Mrs. Sarah E. Weller, of Silver Lake, Indiana; Mrs. Mary E. Fenstermaker, of Hillsdale, Michigan; Mrs. Ida L. Hilther, of Palmer tpwnship, Putnam county; Benjamin F., of North Creek, Ohio; Laura May, deceased; and Joseph J., of Adrian, Michigan.

After being educated in the common schools of Palmer township, Putnam county, Ohio, and especially in District No. 3, of this township, Henry Philip Schafer served as deputy postmaster and railroad express agent at

North Creek, Ohio, from 1881, at the time he was seventeen years old, until 1884, when he was twenty. On October 6, 1888, he moved to his present farm of fifty-three acres in Monroe township, which is located one-half mile west of the original homestead farm. Here Mr. Schafer has farmed ever since. His land is well improved and shows evidence of the careful -cultivation which it has received from its owner. For over twelve years Mr. Schafer has served as secretary of the Palmer Mutual Fire Insurance Association, with headquarters at North Creek, Ohio.

One month before he removed to his present farm, on September 6, 1888, Mr. Schafer was married to Martha Weller, a native of Van Buren, -Ohio, born on April 7, 1864, the daughter of Dr. Jonathan and Rebecca Weller, the former of whom was born on June 10, 1830, and who died on June 16, 1898, and the latter of whom was born on August 6, 1830, and who died on January 8, 1902. Mr. and Mrs. Schafer are the parents of five children: Louis, born in 1891, was married on August 26, 1913; Mrs. Eva Fenstemaker, born on September 23, 1895, was married on January 20, 1915; Mattie, born on June 11, 1897; Viola, born on July i, 1901, and Ralph, born on December 10, 1903.

Mr. Schafer is a man of fine and friendly impulses, popular in the neighborhood where he lives, honorable in his dealings with his neighbors, and highly respected by the community at large. He is a worthy descendant of the great family of Baron Hempleman and a patrician at heart, even though the Schafer family no longer bears this name in our American democracy.

Julius C. Risser

Among those persons who have, by virtue of their strong individual personality, earned their way to a position of high standing in the estimation of their fellow citizens, and who have, by sheer force of character and persistency, acquired a substantial competence in life, is Julius C. Risser, of Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, Ohio. Mr. Risser has been active in the agricultural and stock raising affairs, of Putnam county, for many years, and has acquired a position of distinct prominence as a breeder of thoroughbred Belgian horses.

Julius C. Risser was born on February 25, 1864, in Allen county, Ohio, near Rockport. He is the son of Daniel and Elizabeth M. (Smith) Risser, -whose family history is to be found elsewhere in this volume in sketches

Daniel and Elizabeth M. Risser moved to Sugar Creek township, when Julius C. was only a few months old. Here Julius C. remained until he was twenty-seven years old. It was on the old homestead of his father that he spent his childhood and youth. Here he attended the old Michael district school. Shortly after finishing the common schools he went to the Ohio Northwestern University, at Ada, completing the commercial course. After this he returned to the home farm and assisted his father until his marriage, April I, 1891.

Julius C. Risser was married to Mary E. Clevenger, who was born on the old Clevenger homestead, south of Vaughnsville, September 15, 1866. She is the daughter of James and Catherine (Vaughn) Clevenger.

After his ma'rriage Julius C. Risser came to his wife's home, where they have resided ever since. Mr. Risser took charge of the Clevenger home place, consisting of one hundred acres, and after his father's death obtained possession of his father's home place of two hundred acres, by buying out the interest of tlie other heirs. Besides Mr. Risser's land holdings in Sugar Creek township, he also owns a section of six hundred and forty acres in Texas. Mr. Risser is a stockholder in the Peoples Banking Company, of Columbus Grove and Vaughnsville.

Julius C. Risser and wife have had eight children: James Daniel, born on January 26, 1892; Catherine Elizabeth, born on July 2, 1893; Ada May, born on September 29, 1895; Sarah Emma, born on September 17, 1898; Nellie Ruth, born on November 14, 1901 ; Mary Ellen, born on October 11' 1904; Harry Edwin, born on July 11, 1907, and Grace Pauline, born on April 8, 191 1.

that Mr. Risser owes his prominence in the community largely to his own efforts, untiring energy and good business judgment. He has been branchmg put lately to the breeding of thoroughbred Belgian horses, having recently purchased a magnificent stallion, "Dernier," No. 8673, which won the gold medal at the big horse show of Spa, Belgium, in 1914. He also raisesbees and has about one hundred hives, from which he realizes a source of revenue in the sale of honey.

Mr. and Mrs. Risser and family attend the Christian church, of which Mrs. Risser is a member. Mr. Risser is a member of Maccabees Lodge No. 312, at Vaughnsville. Mr. Risser is a Democrat, but has never aspired to office.

John T. Verhoff

The names Verhoff and Brinkman for several generations have been familiar and respected among the people of Putnam county, the progenitors of these two families having been among the earlier settlers of the countypioneers who left their impress upon the community in which they lived and labored, in which they wrested from the wilderness, homes for themselves, which have come down to their descendants to the fourth and fifth generations, in all of which time the two names above noted have stood for thrift, energy and directness of purpose. When, in 1899, these two names were linked and united by the marriage of John T. Verhoff and Catherine Brinkman there was much rejoicing among the friends of this worthy couple, for this insured the establishment of another family which should be marked by the same sterling traits as ever had characterized the families of the two thus united. It is eminently fitting, therefore, that in a work of this kind, containing the histories of the leading families of Putnam county, some reference should be made to the life of the gentleman whose name appears above.

John T. Verhoff was born on his father's farm near Glandorf, Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, on April 6, 1871, the son of Theodore and Elizabeth (Egbers) Verhoff, prominent in the life of that part of the county. For further details of the genealogy of the Verhoff family, the reader is referred to the sketch of Theodore Verhoff, father of the subject of this sketch, presented elsewhere in this volume.

cation in the common schools of Greensburg township and attended for three years the graded school at Glandorf. Until he was twenty-four years of age he lived on his father's farm, after which he moved to a farm owned by his father in section 29, Greensburg township, where he lived with his brothers, Joseph and August, and his sister, Mary, the latter of whom kept house for them. Here he remained, assisting in the work of the farm, for three years, or until his marriage in 1899, after which he moved to the farm in Union township on which he still resides and which he now owns, but which at that time belonged to his father. Though there were comfortable buildings on this farm at the time he took possession, Mr. Verhoff has greatly improved the place, by reconstructing the house and barn better to conform to the modern standard and has put up a number of substantial outbuildings necessary to the proper operation of the farm. On this farm of one hundred and twenty acres, eighty acres of which he bought from his father, the additional forty having been bought later, Mr. Verhoff engages quite successfully m general fanning and pays some attention to the raising of fullblooded Jersey cattle. He is industrious and energetic and, with the characteristic Verhoff thrift, has accumulated a fine property.

On August 23, 1899, John T. Verhoff was united in marriage with Catherine Bnnkman, the daughter of Henry and Sophia (Ricker) Brinkman, both of whom were born near Glandorf, in this county, the parents of both having come from Germany in the eariy days of this county's settlement and located in the Glandorf neighborhood, where they joined the other German pioneers in clearing the land for the future generations. Henry and Sophia (Ricker) Brinkman were the parents of nine children the others, besides Mrs.. Verhoff, being: Joseph, Mary, Frank, Barney Theresa Bernardma, Anna and Josephine, of whom the first four named are now deceased. The mother of the above children died in 1882 and Mr Brinkman miarned, secondly, Caroline Foppe, to which union there were bom five children: Henry, Veronica, Helen, Amos (deceased) and Caroline . u ^^ ^°^^, 7' """^ Catherine (Brinkman) Verhoff have been born the following children: Verona, born on December 30, 1900, died a few days later; Leona, born on May 30, 1902; Mary, born on March 25, 190c- Bernardma, born on October 18, 1906, and Raymond, born on June 10 1908 he first three named of whom are in school and making diligent use of thei; excellent scholastic opportunities.

their kindliness and benevolence. Mr. Verhoff is connected with the Catholic Knights of Ohio and takes an active part in the affairs of that organization. He is one of the substantial men of his section of the county and v^fields a good influence therein.

William A. Edelbrock

One of the oldest and best known families in Putnam county is the Edelbrock family, one of the members of which the biographer takes pleasure in calling the attention of the reader to at this point in this interesting and valuable biographical volume.

William A. Edelbrock was born March 20, 1863, the son of Henry and Theresa Edelbrock, for the genealogy of whom the reader is referred to the sketch of John Edelbrock, brother of William A., presented elsewhere in this volume.

William A. Edelbrock was reared on his father's farm and received his early education in the neighborhood schools, remaining on the paternal farm until his marriage in 1895, with the exception of two years, during which time he was engaged in the saw-mill business in Greensburg township, this county, and was one of the most popular younk men in the neighborhood.

On November 8, 1895, William Edelbrock was united in marriage with Theresa Huster, the daughter of William and Dora Huster, well-known residents of Greensburg township, where Mr. Huster still lives on his farm, his wife having died some years ago, and who were the parents of seven children, Frank, Charles, William, Philomena, Theresa, Elizabeth and Katharine.

Mrs. Edelbrock's father, William Huster, was born in the Province of Hanover, Germany, son of Henry and Elizabeth (Gertker) Huster, who had eight children. Henry and Elizabeth came to this country and settled where their son William now lives. She died here and he moved to Shelby county, Ohio, where he lived until his death. William Huster was married in Glandorf, Putnam county, to Dora Schroeder. She was born in Putnam county, a daughter of Nicholas and Mary Schroeder, who were born in Germany! After marriage, William and Dora (Schroeder) Huster moved to a farm in Greensburg township, and later, after his father had moved to Shelby county, Ohio, he bought the home place from his father in Greensburg township, of sixty acres, and he now owns eighty-seven acres. To William Huster and wife were born nine children, Frank, Charles, William, Philomena, Theresa (wife of subject of this sketch), Elizabeth, Katrina, all living, and Henry and Maryann, who are dead. Mr. Huster's wife died on January 4, 191 1. He still lives on his farm, which is just east of his son-in-law's, Mr! Edelbrock. Mr. Huster's sons manage and develop the farm. All belong to St John's Catholic church at Glandorf.

Following his marriage, Mr. Edelbrock moved to a farm of forty-seven acres, which he bought in Jackson township, this county, which he improved and on which he remained for four years. He then moved to Greensburtownship, where for two years he operated the old Dangler saw-mill At the end of that time he sold this mill, but later took it over again and moved It to Avis, at which place he bought forty-three acres of land, on which he now operates the mill and engages in general farming. This saw-mill is of modest size and capacity, but turns out a good deal of custom work and has proved not only a great convenience in the neighborhood, but a source of considerable revenue to the owner.

To William A. and Theresa (Huster) Edelbrock there have been bom three children . Hulda, born on July 11, 1897; Louis, bom on July .5 1890 and Leonore bom on December 6, 1908, who are the delight of the ives of' their devoted parents and the light of their happy home

William Edelbrock and wife are members of the Catholic church at Glandorf and are rearing their children in that faith. They take an active part m the benevolent affairs of their home parish and are interest" al