Putnam County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1915 (part 12 of 33)

Jacob S. Myers was born on December 21, 1852, on a farm in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, where he now makes his home Samuel Myers first saw the light of day in 1855, and Maria three years later. They are children of Jacob and Lydia (Shank) Myers, the former bemg a well-grown youth when he came with his parents from their home m the state of Maryland. The journey was made overland in a wagon considerable time being consumed en route. The parents Were John and Mary (Dillon) Myers, whose children were, Abraham, John, Samuel Jacob Peter, Joseph, Christian and Henry. The parents were in their declining years when the children induced them to come and make a new home in a new country that was rapidly being settled in this part of Ohio. Jacob Myers an other son, the father of Jacob S., later came with his uncle, Peter Mvers'and his cousin, Martin Myers. Others came together and joined the rest of the family. Later, two more sons, Peter and Henry, came, when Peter settled in Perry township m Putnam county, and Henry settled in Paulding county Ohio After the family reached Putnam county, they settled on a tract of 'eiohtv acres, which they had secured from the government, and set about the task of clearing their land of the timber and preparing- it for cultivation. They in time, developed an excellent farm and were among the most highly respected citizens of the community at the time of their death. Jacob, father of our subject, assisted in clearing the home farm and developing the land and, later, on his own account, he entered a tract from the government, containing sixty-four acres, and this same land forms a portion of the holdings of Jacob S. Myers at the present time. After he had his grant of eighty acres in fair condition, Jacob Myers purchased from his father an additional tract of sixty-four acres and also cleared that of timber. On this farm he made his home, after the time of his marriage, about the year 1846. He chose as his wife Lydia Shank, a daughter of Michael and Barbara (Wideman) Shank, both of whom were natives of Canada and came to this country after their marriage. They came by boat on the Great Lakes, as far as Toledo, Ohio, and thence overland to their destination in Putnam county. They entered one hundred and sixty acres of land from the government and in the course of time developed a fine farm. The mother passed away while the family was still living on this farm and the father later lived in Elkhart, Indiana, where his life closed. The thirteen children of the family were : Eve, Susan, Tina, Fannie, Catherine, Mary, Barbara, Esther, Maria, Sarah, Michael, Elizabeth and Lydia.

As above stated, Michael and Barbara (Wideman) Shank, the parents of Jacob S. Myers, came to the farm where they are now living, which was the family home for many years. Both parents have passed into the Great Beyond, leaving behind them, to their children, a rich heritage in the knowledge of lives passed in industry and humility. The father died in 1875, and the mother in 1886.

Jacob S. Myers received his education in the district schools near his home and, in early manhood, assisted his father in the work about the homestead. The parents were members of the Mennonite church, and in this faith the children were reared and are today members of that body. Jacob has served as township assessor for a term of two years and also as township supervisor, discharging all the duties thus devolving upon him in a manner highly satisfactory to all. Jacob, Samuel and Maria are unmarried and operate the farm which they own. Their holdings total two hundred and sixty-eight acres, and the farm is considered one of the finest in the township. All the buildings are in a good state of repair. They have an excellent equipment and being industrious, get good returns for the labor expended. By industrious habits and frugal manner of living, they have amassed a goodly portion of this world's goods, but better still is the high esteem in which they are held by all who know them on account of their honorable and well-directed lives.

Florian Stoepfel

Among the successful, self-made men of the present generation in Putnam county, Ohio, whose efforts and influence have contributed to the material upbuilding of the commimity, Florian Stoepfel occupies a conspicuous place. Being ambitious from the first, but surrounded with none too favorable environment, his early youth was not especially promising. Resolutely facing the future, however, he has gradually surmounted the difficulties in his way and, in due course of time, has arisen to a prominent position in the agricultural circles of his corhmunity. In addition to this, he has won the confidence and esteem of those with whom he has come in contact. For years, he has stood as one of the representative citizens of the locality, honored by his citizenship.

Florian Stoepfel was born on February 28, 1877, in Bavaria, Germany. He is the son of Gregoire and Crescentia (Essen wan ger) Stoeppel, both natives of the same place, who died in Germany. Gregoire Stoepfel was a farmer all of his life. One year after his death, his widow, with her son and daughter, came to this country, and joined Florian Stoepfel, who had crossed the sea some time previous. The mother settled on a farm in Greensburg township, where she still lives. Her children are : Florian, the subject of this sketch; Lucas, Louis, Mary and John, deceased. Lucas married Mollie Siebeneck and lives in Putnam county; Louis is unmarried and lives in Cloverdale; Mary married Frank J. Verhoff and lives in Ashtabula county, Ohio.

Florian Stoepfel attended school in the old country and, when fifteen years of age, came to America and settled near Glandorf in Putnam county. He worked on various farms, during the first few years after his arrival in this country, and finally purchased forty acres in Union township, before his marriage.

Florian Stoepfel was married on October 28, 1903, to Josephine Uphaus, the daughter of George and Margaret (Wehrie) Uphaus. George Uphaus was the son of John and Catherine Uphaus, who came from Gerrriany after their marriage. He was a farmer-and settled near Glandorf on a farm where he continued to live until his death. He and his wife were members of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf. Margaret Wehrie was the daughter of Clement and Anna Wehrie, who were born in Germany and who, at an early day, came to this country, settling on a farm near Glandorf, Putnam county. They were well known among the early settlers and lived on this farm until their death. They were also members of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf. Mrs. Stoepfel is the sister of Philomena Uphaus, the wife of Mathias Theodore Verhofif, whose sketch is found elsewhere in this volume.

After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Stoepfel, they moved to the farm where they now live in Union township. Since Mr. Stoepfel's marriage, he has acquired twenty acres in addition to his original purchase of forty acres, before his marriage. He is a general farmer, but makes a specialty of raising cattle. He does considerable well drilling, under contract for the farmers of the community in which he lives, and has been very successful in this work.

To. Florian and Josephine (Uphaus) Stoepfel, five children have been born, Clara, born on February 7, 1905; Matilda, born on December 19, 1906; Laura, born on September 22, 1908; John, born on October 30, 1910, and Joseph, born on July 28,, 19 13.

Florian Stoepfel and wife belong to St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida. They are devout members of this, church and contribute liberally of their means to its support. Mr. Stoepfel is an energetic and ambitious young farmer, who has adopted progressive methods in everything that pertains to the work of the farm. He is in every respect a representative citizen of Union township, where he lives.

Alonzo Rager

Putnam county has been fortunate in the character of its farmers and much of its material prosperity can be attributed to the fact that its fanners have kept abreast of the times, and it can hardly be questioned that as such they are an index to the civilization of the community. Its farmers are progressive and up-to-date and it follows that the standard of the community will be high. Thousands of banks have been organized within the last few years in order to supply the needs of the farmer. In fact, the crops of the farmer furnish most of the money for 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. Alonzo Rager is one of the prominent and influential farmers of Union township.

Mr. And Mrs. Alonzo Rager

Franklin county, Ohio. He was of Pennsylvania Dutch descent. He and his wife were the parents of ten children, Elizabeth, Adam, George, Hiram, Solomon, Joseph, Henry, Edward, Mary and Alice. Mr. Rager's maternal grandparents were Luke and Susan (Arnett) Coon, the former of whom was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, October 8, 1826, of Scotch-Irish descent. He was reared on the farm of his parents, and upon reaching manhood was married to Susan Arnett, a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch parentage. They had six children, John, George, Sarah, Jennie, Helena and Emehe. Luke Coon, after his marriage, continued farming in Pickaway county, where he was born, and in 1856 moved to Illinois. His wife havmg died in 1859, he remarried, and continued to live in Illinois until 1882, when he returned to Ohio and made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Rager.'

Solomon Rager was born on June 23, 1850, in Franklin county, Ohio. He was educated in this county and reared as a farmer. He was married on January 18, 1872, to Helena Coon. After his marriage he remained on the farm, m Franklin county, and on August 23, 1884, he moved to Putnam county, where he continued to farm until his death, which occurred on January 17, 1886. His wife received a good education in Macon, Illinois It was m that state their their marriage took place.

To Solomon and Helena Rager were born the following children- Ohve, Alonzo (the subject of this sketch), Luke, Elmer, Lewis, Chester and Verda. Olive, who died on December 31, 1893, married Benjamin Good. Luke, who lives in Sugar Creek township, married Hattie Brown and has two children. Elmer, who lives in Middletown, is married and lias four children. Lewis, who lives in California, married Myrtle Dresky and has four children. Chester, who lives in St. Louis, Missouri, married Naomi Summers. Verda married John Anderson, a farmer of Sugar Creek township, and has four children. Solomon Rager, the father of these children, was a Republican. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Winchester. His wife is still living and makes her home with her son Lewis on the old home place. The residence on this farm was erected in 1888.

Alonzo Rager was educated in the Union township schools and lived on his father s farm. He worked out for four years by the year on various farms. Mr. Rager was married to Ola Dicus, the daughter of Scott and Mary (Campnell) Dicus, of Union township, Putnam county

Scott Dicus was a native of Perry township, Putnam county, Ohio and was born on September 2, 1847. He was the son of Jacob and Hannah <Carey) Dicus. Scott Dicus was educated in the Putnam county schools and at the outbreak of the Civil War he and his brother, Harrison, enlisted in the Eighty-eighth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Captain. Allen. Scott served until the close of the war, but Harrison took a severecold, developed consumption and retired from the service. Scott Dicus married Mary Campnell on January 25, 1872, and to this union were born three children, Lillian, Ola and Russell. Scott Dicus is a prominent farmer, in Union township at the present time and is well known.

After his marriage, Mr. Rager moved to a farm of forty acres, and since this has acquired ninety acres in addition. The farm is located in sections 8 and 17, in Union township. Mr. Rager is a progressive farmer. He has erected splendid buildings on his farm and made many other improvements, chief among which was a hollow tile silo, all of which show his advanced ideas in agriculture.

To Mr. and Mrs. Rager have been born four children, one of whomdied in infancy. The other three are Frederick A., born on March 25, 1901 ; Mary H., born on January 15, 1905, and Elnora Lucille, born on February 9, 1908. Mrs. Rager died on February 6, 1915. She became ill. with typhoid fever in 1913, and suffered a general breakdown. She continued on the decline until her death. During her illness she received alt the care a loving husband could bestow. Her death was a sad event to her husband, who was very much devoted to her. She was buried in Ottawa. River cemetery. Mrs. Rager was a devout member of the Methodist church. She was a loving wife and mother. Mr. Rager had many sympathizing friends in his bereavement, and his loss was shared by many friends, of Mrs. Rager, who loved her for her splendid qualities.

Alonzo Rager does general farming. He belongs to the Ottawa River Christian church. At the present time he owns one hundred and thirtyacres of land. He is a Republican, is popular with his neighbors, intelligent and progressive in his methods. All in all, he is a representative citizen of Putnam county.

Frank Hoffman

No more substantial and moral citizens have ever come to this countrjr from foreign lands than the sons of Germany. Wherever they have settled,, they have become respected citizens. As a race, they are characterized byindustry and a patience which overcome all obstacles and which thus insure them success in whatever undertaking they choose to follow. Putnam countyhas been honored by having thousands of the sons of Germany as citizens,.

PUTNAM COUNTY, OHIO. 5gjbut no family of German descent has ever occupied a more prominent place in the material development of the county than that of the Hoffmans.

Frank Hoffman w^as born in Glandorf on March 12, 1865, and is the son of William F. and Clara (Schroeder) Hoffman. Mr. Hoffman's paternal grandparents came from Germany from the Province of Hanover and settled near Glandorf in Putnam county. They arrived here about one year after the establishment of Professor Horstman's colony, where they secured a farm and lived until their death. William F. Hoffman and wife were members of the Catholic church. Mr. Hoffman's maternal grandparents also came from Germany- and settled in Greensburg township, Putnam county, on a farm. They lived in Greensburg towaship until their death.

William F. Hoffman, the father of Frank Hoffman, attended school in Glandorf and remained at home during the early part of his life. He learned the carpenter's trade and worked at this trade in Glandorf. Later, he became a school teacher. He was the organist at St. John's Catholic 'church for fifteen years when he established a general dry goods store and, after his marriage, he lived in Glandorf and taught school for twenty-five years. He divided his attention between business, school teaching and farming about eighty acres of land. The children of William F. and Clara Hoffman were as follow: two. who died in infancy; John, who died at the age of two years; Mary, William, Theresa, Amelia, who died at the age of two; Frank, Henry, Anna, who died in 1908; and Charles. Mary married Xavier Wirth and lives in Sugar Creek township; William married Veronica Halker and lives in Glandorf; Theresa married Henry Kemper and lives in Dayton Ohio; Henry married Elizabeth Herzog and lives in Jackson township' Charles married Elizabeth Osege and lives in Glandorf; William F Hoffman died on April 29, 1915, at the home of his son, Charles, who farms the home place. He was a state representative in the Ohio Legislature for two terms and was also justice of the peace for many years. Mrs. Hoffman died on February 6, 1898. They were members of St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf and devout in their religious duties and obligations.

Frank Hoffman attended school at Glandorf and worked in his father's store, and on the farm during vacations. He was married to Mary Ann Reckfelder, the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Nottbrock) Reckfelder the former of whom was- a native of Glandorf, Putnam county, and the latter of Glandorf, Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Reckfelder were married in Glandorf, Putnam county, and after their marriage, lived on a farm. They later moved to Glandorf in Putnam county and lived retired. Their children were Joseph, Bernard and Mary. Joseph married Elizabeth Kronbeger and lives in Dayton, Ohio. They have had four children; Bernard died in 1908; Henry Reckfelder died on June 20, 1908, and his wife died on March 12, 191 5. Both are buried at Glandorf.

Frank Hoffman was married on November 11, 1891, and after his marriage, moved to a farm in Union township. This farm consisted of eighty acres which Mr. Hoffman received from his father. The present owner has erected all of the buildings on the farm and made many improvements since he acquired possession of it. To Frank and Mary A. (Reckfelder) Hoffman several children have been born, Adelia, born on August 18, 1892; Harry, born on May 25, 1894, and died in September, 1894; Clara, born on February 15, 1896, and died in July, 1896; Alfred, born on June 8, 1897; Magdalena, born on June 28, 1899; Lawrence, born on June 26, 1901; Raymond, born on November 28, 1903, and died on June 17, 1904; Arnold, born on June 20, 1906; and Mary, born on April 11, 1908.

Frank Hoffman is a general farmer and stock raiser. He makes a specialty of Durham and Hereford cattle. He is secretary of St. Joseph's Benevolent Society. The family are all members of the Catholic church and prominent in the affairs of this denomination.

Frederick W. Verhoff

It was once remarked by a celebrated moralist and biographer that there has scarcely passed a life of which a judicious and faithful narrative would not have been useful. Believing in the truth of this opinion, expressed by one of the greatest and best men, the writer of this review takes pleasure in presenting a few facts in the career of the gentleman, who, by perseverance, temperance and integrity, has worked himself from an humble station to a successful place in life and won an honorable position among the well-known and highly esteemed farmers of Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio.

Frederick W. Verhoff was born on June 18, 1887, on his father's farm in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of William and Katherine (Kerner) Verhoff. William Verhoff was born in the house in which he now lives, in Ottawa township, and he was the son of Francis and Mary (Kramer) Verhoff, early settlers of Putnam county. William Verhoff is the brother of Theodore Verhoff, the life history of whom may be found in another part of this volume, gives the facts regarding the Verhoff family. It is sufficient, in this place, to say that Francis and Mary (Kramer)

Verhoff were natives of Westphalia, Prussia, and the state of Pennsylvania, respectively. Mr. Verhoff was a well-known blacksmith in the community where he lived. He died in 1863 after having acquired six hundred and forty acres of land in Putnam county. Mary Kramer was the daughter of Theodore and Gertrude (Veraking) Kramer.

Katherine Kerner, the mother of Frederick W. Verhoff, was the daughter of Mathias and Elizabeth (Kerner), the former of whom was a native of Germany and the latter of Pennsylvania. Mathias Kerner came to this country early in life and settled in Putnam county. Prior to coming here, he spent three years in South Carolina. His wife came to Putnam county, from Pennsylvania, after the death of her parents. Here she met and married Mathias Kerner. They lived on a farm the entire time of their lives.

William Verhoff spent his early life on his father's farm and attended the schools at Glandorf, in Putnam county, and where on April 20, 1880, he was married to Katherine Kerner, the daughter of Mathias and' Elizabeth Kerner. They continued to live on the parental farm, which consisted of one hundred acres and which he, later, inherited from his father. William Verhoff and wife were the parents of the following children : J. Frank, Mathias, Mary, Elizabeth, Frederick, Cecelia, Leo, Dora, Hieronomous and Christopher. Wilham Verhoff and family are all members of the Catholic church at Glandorf.

Frederick W. Verhoff, the subject of this sketch, attended school in Glandorf and lived on the homestead farm until his marriage. He was married on May 19, 191 1, to Elizabeth Ellerbrock, the daughter of Henry and Theresa (Borgelt) Ellerbrock, both of whose parents came from Germany and settled in Putnam county near Glandorf. After their marriage they lived on a farm near Glandorf, and eventually purchased ninety-nine acres in Union township near Kalida, where they now live. They have had eight children, Henry, Joseph, William, Mary, Agnes, Theresa, Elizabeth and William, deceased.

After their marirage, Frederick W. and Elizabeth (Ellerbrock) Verhoff lived in Jackson township for three months on a farm of eighty acres which they rented. They then moved to a farm of one hundred and twenty acres m Greensburg township, which belonged to Mr. Verhoff's father It is here that they still live. Mr. Verhoff is engaged in general farming, but makes a specialty of cattle and hogs.

Mr. and Mrs. Verhoff are members of St. Nicholas' Catholic church at Miller City. Frederick W. Verhoff is a pleasant young man of sturdy personal appearance and agreeable manner. He is ambitious in the better sense of the term and throughout his life has been an industrious and hard worker. She is an amiable woman and has in many ways helped her ambitious young husband.

One of the rising younger generation of farmers is Homer Edwin McKenzie, a member of one of the old families of this section. Mr. Mc- Kenzie is a man of keen mentality and pronounced views on all questions of the day. He removed to his present farm home of one hundred and sixty acres the latter part of 1914, and inasmuch as he carries on the work, of his farm along lines most approved by modern scientific investigation, being well versed in all that pertains to the best development of his interests, he bids fair to win a gratifying degree of success in his chosen vocation. He has passed the greater part of his life on the farm where he now lives, having first seen the light of day in that home on April 9, 1878. It was at that time the home of his parents, Erwin and Matilda (Barkmeyer) Mc- Kenzie. His father was a native of this state and his mother was also a native of Ohio. When Homer's father, Erwin McKenzie, was twenty-one years of age, he accompanied his mother to this county, the father having previously died in the old home. They settled in Greensburg township, where they bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres and partly cleared and drained the land, which farm is where our immediate subject hves at the present time. His father was one of a family of five children, the others being Homer, Susan, Lucinda and Mary. Being the eldest of the family, much of the heavier work and responsibility devolved upon Erwin, who proved a faithful son and of great assistance to the mother.

When Erwin McKenzie married, he chose as his wife Matilda Barkmeyer, a daughter of Henry and Charlotte Barkmeyer, who was brought to this county by her parents when still a small girl. Other children of the family were Henry, Elizabeth, Nettie, Edith and Matilda. After their marriage, the parents of Homer McKenzie continued to live on the mother's farm and remained there for many years, later removing to Lima, this state, where the mother died and Homer's father continues to make his home, at 220 South Collett street, that city.

Special mention is due Erwin McKenzie, owing to the fact that during the dark days of the sixties he proved himself one of the loyal sons of the nation and donned the blue to assist in protecting the integrity of our republic. He enlisted with a regiment from his native state and served with great distinction throughout his enlistment. To Erwin McKenzie and wife were born eight children. Orville married Winnie Brown and resides at Columbus Grove; they are the parents of two living children, one dead. Effie married Wilfred Stauffer and resides near Waterloo, Indiana; she is the mother of six children; Frank, deceased, and Bessie married David Bonecutter and lives in Butler, Indiana. Other children of the family were Cora, Mary Hazel and Gilson.

Homer Edward McKenzie received his education in the district schools near his home and assisted his father in the work of the farm. He remained at home until the time of his marriage on December 7, 1913, when he was united in matrimony to Florence Wing of Continental, this county. She is a daughter of Henry and Mary (Gilbert) Wing, the former born in this eounty and the latter of Cleveland, this state. After marriage, Henry Wing and wife, moved to a farm in this 'county, where they have since resided. They were married on March 17, 1866, and to them have been born the following children: Martha, born on March 10, 1868; Albert, born on September 15, 1870; Frederick, born on September 4, 1872; Florence, born on September 7, 1873; Rufus Gilbert, born on December 16, 1877, deceased; Henry Franklin, born on August 24, 1880; Mary Ann, deceased, born on July 13, 1883, and Philip, deceased, born on June 9, 1893; Martha married Hamilton Hersh and lives in Continental, where she is the mother of seven children; Albert, who now lives in California, married Gertrude Andrews and later married Lavina Derbyshire, having five children. Henry F. married Gertrude Myers and is the father of four children.

To Homer McKenzie and his wife has been born one child. Hazel Marie, who came to them on July 5, 19 14. In addition to his general farming. Homer raises a special breed of Polled Durham cattle and Duroc hogs and is uniformly successful in whatever he undertakes. The farm contains one hundred and sixty acres of well-improved land and the buildings and residence, which Homer's father erected, are in good condition. Homer Mc- Kenzie makes the third generation of the family to make his home on this site, the land having originally been purchased by his grandmother.

Homer McKenzie's political preference is with the Democratic party, but he exercises his independence in such matters when he comes to the polls. His fraternal affiliation is with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America, while Mrs. McKenzie is a member of the Pythian Sisters. Both are the iinest kind of young people, genial, generous and hospitable.

William G. Mullet

The people who constitute the bone and sinew of this country are not those who are unstable and unsettled, who fly from one occupation to another, who do not know how to vote until they are told, and who take noactive and intelligent interest in the civic affairs of their community. The backbone of this country is made up of the families who have made their homes, who are alive to the best interest of the community, who attend to. their own business in preference to the affairs of others, and who work on steadily from day to day, taking the sunshine with the storms, rearing fine families to comfortable homes and honest lives. Such people are alwayswelcome in any community. They are the wealth producers. And Putnam county is fortunate in being blessed with many of them, among whom is William G. Mullet, a prominent farmer of Greensburg township.

William G. Mullet was born in 1865 at Ottawa, Ohio. He is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Crow) Mullet. Jacob Mullet was born in Switzerland, in 1840, and was the son of John and Maria (Ratz) Mullet. They came to America about 1847. They were over three months in crossing the ocean in a sailing vessel, since the wind was very low during a part of the voyage. John Mullet spent about a year at Cincinnati, and a few years at Columbus, Ohio. They located near Elm Center about 1852, while theland was all covered with timber. The land was also swampy where it was cleared, and it was necessary to bank the soil in ridges to produce any crops. Later, when the Nickel Plate railroad grade was made it gave the people work. Now this land is part of the finest land in Putnam county. It wasin this section that Jacob Mullet grew to manhood. He married Elizabeth Crow in 1864. Elizabeth Crow was born in the northeastern part of Greensburg township in January, 1842, and was the daughter of W. R. and Bersheba (Brower) Crow.

W. R. Crow came from Columbiana county. He was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, April 12, 1821, and was the son of James and Elizabeth (Moreland) Crow, who settled here in 1835. James Crow was the son of Abraham and Rachael (Craven) Crow. Abraham Crow was born in 1748, and was among the early settlers of Pennsylvania. He was married in

Berks county to Rachael Craven, and moved from Pennsylvania, in 1787, west to Washington county, and to Columbiana county, Ohio, about 181 5.' A brother of his was killed in the battle of Brandywine. He had elevea children, among whom was Abraham, who married Sarah Thompson, and who was a pioneer settler of Greensburg township, and another son was James Crow, also a pioneer of Greensburg township. He left numerous progeny and died in his ninety-seventh year. W. R. Crow's wife, Bersheba Brower, was born in Randolph county. North Carolina, in 1819. She was the daughter of Frederick and Helena (Staley) Brower. Frederick Brower was born in North Carolina, a son of Adam Brower, a native of Pennsylvania. Adam's father was the founder of the family in America. Frederick Brower was born and reared in North Carolina, and there learned shoemaking and tanning. He married Nellie Staley in Randolph county. North Carolina. Her father was a cousin of the royal family of Germany.' Frederick Brower moved to Florida, returned to Ohio, and thence to Ft. Wayne, Indiana. After several other moves, he came finally to Greensburg township, Ohio, and entered ninety-three acres of land. He was the fourth settler in Greensburg township. When he came from Allen county he brought with him a hand-mill in which he used to grind corn; otherwise he would have had to go forty miles to a water-mill. In time he became the owner of four hundred and ninety-three acres, and cultivated it until his death, in June, 1875. His wife died in 1889. He was the first justice of the peace in Greensburg township and the first trustee of that township.

After Jacob Mullet married he lived in Ottawa for four years, and there engaged in the butcher business. He then spent four years on the farm in Greensburg township, and then removed to Leipsic, where he engaged in the butcher business for about six years. He then returned to- Greensburg township and farmed until his death. He and his wife owned about one hundred and sixty acres of land. Mrs. Jacob Mullet died in 1887, and he died in 1900. They were the parents of eight children : Williani G., of Greensburg township; John A., of near Continental; Amelia B, the widow of John A. Simon, who lives in Palmer township, near Kief ersville - Anna Florence, the wife of William H. Wisterman, of Toledo; Maiy Emma, the wife of Amos Ridenour, who lives near Wabash, Indiana Luther H., of Toledo; Frederick, of Three Rivers, Michigan, and Everett who lives near Butler, Indiana.

He was married, March 14, 1891, to Vela Ayers. She was born in Greensburg township, along the Blanchard river, and is the daughter of Clark P. and Sarah E. (Dangler) Ayers. Clark P. Ayers was born in 1842 in Greensburg township, and was the son of William and Rachael (Crow) Ayers. Rachael Crow was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, and came to Columbiana county, Ohio, with her parents, Abraham and Sarah (Thompson) Crow, of the Crow family above referred to, who moved to township in 183^. William Ayers was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, a son of John and Sarah (Wallahan) Ayers. They lived in several counties before they came finally to Greensburg township in 1836. Clark P. Ayers grew up here and married Sarah Dangler, June 22, 1869. She was born in Greensburg township in 1849, and was the of Jacob and Susan (Guy) Dangler. Jacob Dangler was born in Union county, Pennsylvania, in 18 14, and came in 1837 to Greensburg township, Putnam county, with his parents, John and Elizabeth (Kaler) Dangler. His wife, Susan Guy, whose parents, Jesse and Jane (Schurtz) came here in 1838, was born in 1821 in Columbiana county, Ohio, and was married in this county in 1842. C. P. Ayers was a life-long farmer in -Greensburg township. He was also a justice of the peace. His great grandfather, James Ayers, was a soldier in the Revolutionary army. C. P. Ayers' grandfather, John, served in the War of 18 12. C. P. Ayers died in December, 1889. His widow lives with her children. She still owns the farm in Greensburg township. She is the mother of six children: Vela, the wife of W G. Mullet, of Greensburg township; Alta, the wife of Charles Kirkendall, of Kalida; Odula, the wife of Caius Hemry, of McComb, Ohio; William W. Ayers, of Waterloo, Indiana; Rachael, the wife of J. R. Elkins, Lacrosse, Indiana, and Merle, the wife of B. H. Stevenson, of McComb.

After the marriage of W. G. Mullet he and his wife lived about one year in Greensburg township and spent three years farming in Wabash -county, Indiana. They came back to Greensburg township, in 1896, and have lived ever since where they now live, in the southwest quarter of section I. Mr. Mullet has been a life-long farmer and a raiser of thoroughbred He makes a specialty of thoroughbred Aberdeen-Angus cattle. For the past six years he has served as a member of the county fair board. Mr. Mullet has two hundred and fifty-seven acres of land in Greensburg town-

To Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Mullet five children have been born : Nora is the wife of Claude C. Stuber and lives near Miller City and has one child.

Mr. Mullet has a fine country home, heated by furnace and lighted from a private lighting plant. He has a water plant furnishing hot and cold water to every room. He is pleasant and agreeable, as is also his wife, and the hospitality of the Mullet home is well known. Their neat and well-ordered premises and residence impress one and bespeak the character of the owner.

Edward Bernard Stechschulte

The attention of the reader is now directed to the following sketch of the career of the well-known and enterprising young farmer whose name forms the caption of this article. Mr. Stechschulte has passed his entire life in this community, and the high degree of esteem in which he is held, by friends and neighbors, is ample testimony to the fact that he is one of the worthy citizens of his community. Mr. Stechschulte is a member of one branch of the well-known Kahle family, who were pioneer settlers in this section and people of great influence, who did much in the early days to establish a high standard of living in this then new territory.

Edward Bernard Stechschulte was born in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, on January 12, 1884, being a son of Ignatius and Magdalena (Niese) Stechschulte, both of whom were born in this same county. Ignatius Stechschulte was the eldest child of Henry and Bertha (Kahle) Stechschulte, the other children in the family being : Joseph, Frank, Gustav, Barney, Bertha, Theresa and Henry. He was born on his father's farm in Putnam county on June 2, 1854, and when a youth attended the district schools of his home neighborhood. He was noted as a most intelligent and studious pupil, and when quite young engaged in teaching school in Pleasant township. He was united in marriage on November 22, 1878, to Magdalena Niese. Shortly after marriage they took up their residence on a farm in Greensburg township, consisting of one hundred and ten acres, which farm he had at that time purchased, and upon which he proceeded to make valuable improvements in the way of buildings, etc. There the family lived, until in 1912, when Mr. Stechschulte purchased a ninety-acre farm near Owosso, Michigan, where he intends to make his future home, He is succeeding well in his chosen field of general and dairy farming, combined, and has recently disposed of forty acres of land of which he has long been the owner in this county. Ignatius Stechschulte was one of the leading farmers of his community and his absence has been felt by many to whom he had proved himself a true friend and neighbor. He was a man who took an active interest in public affairs and for six years served Putnam county as commissioner, and had at various other times filled different offices of minor importance. Mrs. Ignatius Stechschulte, who before her marriage was Magdalena Niese, was a daughter of Barney Niese and wife, both natives of Germany, who came to this country while still quite young. The families of both of whom located in Glandorf, where the young people met and were married. After marriage they removed to a farm near Glandorf,. .and there lived many years until the time of her death. The father thenmade his home with a son in Liberty township for the remainder of his life. They were the parents of six children, namely: Elizabeth, deceased; Theresa, Anna, deceased, Agnes, Barney and Magdalena, the latter beingthe mother of the immediate subject of this sketch.

Henry Stechschulte, paternal grandfather of our subject, was a native of Germany, having been born in Glandorf, province of Hanevr, on September 25, 1825, died on his farm home in this county on December -16, 1908. He came to this country alone, when a young man, and first located in Cincinnati, where he worked at the cooper trade for three years. He then came to Glandorf, this county, where he had friends, and where he met and married Bertha Kahle, a native of this county. Immediately after marriage they settled on a farm where they passed the remainder of their lives, having spent many years in the proper rearing of their family and their endeavors to accumulate a modest amount of this world's goods. They lived industrious and consistent lives and were well-respected by all whoknew them.

Edward Bernard Stechschulte is one of a family of nine children, the others being: Catherine, Henry, Lewis, George, DeHa, Hugo, Oscar and Rudolph. When a boy he attended the common schools of his home district, and from earhest boyhood was trained by his father in the practical work about the farm home. He remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage, in his twenty-fifth year. He was joined in wedlock on October 27, 1910, to Miss Elizabeth Fortman, a daughter of Barney and Rose f Hermiller) Fortman. They took up their residence on the farm which they have since made their home. This is located in Greensburg township and consists of eighty-eight acres, all in an excellent state of cultivation. Since making his home on the farm in question, Edward Stechschulte has greatly remodeled the residence, has built barns and other out-buildings - and generally improved the place, until it is at the present time one of the most up-to-date homes in the community. He engages in general farming and, in addition, gives considerable attention to the raising of cattle and hogs for the- market. He is of large and strong physique, an excellent specimen of manhood, and possessed of high ambition and tireless energy. These excellent characteristics are making for him an enviable reputation among those who know him.

Edward Stechschulte's wife (Elizabeth Fortman) was a daughter of Barney and Rose (Hermiller) Fortman, the former being the son of Anthony Fortman and wife, and was born on his father's farm near Ottawa, this county, where he remained on the family homestead until the time of his marriage. He was one of a family of seven children, the oldest two being sons named Anthony, both of whom died in early childhood, the remaining members of the family being: Gertrude, Theodore, Bernadina, Anna and Barney. Rose Hermiller, mother of Edward's wife, was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and was brought to Putnam county by her parents when a little child of three years. Her parents were Barney and Bernadina Hermiller, both natives of Germany. After coming to this county, they settled a farm in Greensburg township, where they lived for a number of years and where his death occurred. She then took up her residence in Glandorf, where she passed her remaining days. They were the parents of eight children, Louisa, Sophia, Rose, Mary, William, Henry, Frank and Minnie.

After their marriage, Barney Fortman and wife moved to the farm on which they stih live in Putnam county. Their family consists of the following children: Barney, Dina, Mary, Ignatius, Joseph, Elizabeth, subject's wife; William and Frank. Mr. Fortman's present farm consists .of eighty acres, but his holdings, formerly, were much larger, as he divided two hundred and forty acres among his sons at the time of their marriage. Mr. Fortman has practically retired from the more active duties of life, having spent many years in hard labor and having won a competency which enables him to pass his remaining years in quiet retirement if he so chooses.

Our subject votes the Democratic ticket and both he and his wife are communicants of the Roman Catholic church. They now attend St Michael's at Miller City, but formerly were of St. John's at Glandorf. Edward Stechschulte and wife are both held in high esteem by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. She is a charming young' matron, ''full of appreciation and sympathy for all her husband's undertakings. There are no children.

Frank Rieman, Jr

The biographer here presents a short sketch of the career of one of the 3'ounger agriculturists of Greensburg township, Putnam county, and a member of one of the old families of this section. The Rieman family first came here in pioneer times and the name has ever stood for all that is best.

Frank Rieman, Jr., the immediate subject of our sketch, is a son of Frank, Sr., and Mary (Karhoff ) Rieman, and first saw the light of day on the family homestead in Greensburg, township, on November 14, 1871. Frank's father is also a native of this county, having been born in Ottawa township, of parents who were natives of the German Empire, and the same is true of his mother, who was Mary, daughter of Henry and Adelaide Kerhofif.

When a boy, Frank Rieman attended the common schools of Greensburg township and assisted the father in the work about the farm, remaining under the parental roof for a year and a half after his marriage. This ceremony was solemnized on October 17, 1900, in St. John's church, Glandorf, his bride being Miss Helena Edelbrock, a daughter of WiUiam and Mary (Herlage) Edelbrock. William Edelbrock was born in Germany and came to this country with his parents where they settled on a farm in Greensburg township, the parents living here until death. William Edelbrock attended school in this county and worked at farming during his early youth. He was one of the following children of his parents: William, Andrew, Henry, Charles, Christina, William (father of Frank's wife) was married in St. John's church at Glandorf. She was a native of this county, having been born in Glandorf, where she grew to maturity and was married, after which they located on a farm of one hundred and twenty acres where they passed the remainder of their lives. Their children were: Mary, Minnie, Helena, wife of our subject; Amelia, deceased; Frank and Edward. Minnie became the wife of Henry Wurst, who lived near Ottawa, and is now widowed. She had five children, one of whom has passed away. She belongs to Sts. Peter and Paul's Catholic church at Ottawa. Frank married Ida Doepker, who has died and since which time he has resided in Glandorf- This family are members of St. John's church at Glandorf.

When Frank Rieman and wife decided to go to themselves, they took up their residence on a farm adjoining the homestead, which farm contained one hundred and three acres and was owned by his father. This land he has since purchased and in addition has bought twenty-six acres adjoining, from Ignatius Kahle. Mr. Rieman carries on general farming and also raises con- siderable cattle, however, having no particular breed. He takes pride in having good horses and many good animals have come from his stables. Since taking up his home on this farm, he ha,s remodeled the buildings and all are in good shape and well adapted for the uses to which he puts them. Frank and Ida (Doepker) Rieman are the parents of four children; Alfred, born on April 7, 1902; Linus, born on September 9, 1906; Edward,^ died on January 26, 1915, and Cornelia, born on November 19, 1914. Mr. Rieman's religious membership is with St. John's Catholic church at Glandorf, and in politics he espouses the cause of the Democratic party. He is a man of marked domestic traits, devoted to his family and their best interests- She is an amiable woman, a devoted mother and a loyal and helpful helpmate.-

Frank W. Doepker

One of the well-known and interesting citizens of Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, is the man whose name forms the caption of this" article. Mr. Doepker is a native of Germany, born in the Province of Hanover on February 29, 1841, a son of Henry and Maria Doepker. The father was a poultry dealer and farmer and in comfortable circumstances. Therewere nine children in the family, pur immediate 'subject being the youngest. The others were: Theresa, Agnes, Louise, Joseph, Henry, Ignatius, William and Phihp. Henry emigrated to America, locating in Ohio, and at the begmning of the Civil War, enlisted with an Ohio regiment and went to the front. He became sick while in service and died somewhere in the South Joseph is still living at Akron, this state, and Louise came to this county and' IS now the wife of Henry Rayman, living in Ottoville.

Frank W. Doepker was twenty-eight years of age before he embarked for America. He landed in New York, where he remained for a short time workmg m a factory. He then came to Toledo, this state, and later to Putnam county, where he worked for his brother, Joseph, in a saw-mill He however, remained there only six months and then became a laborer for bricklayers in this county. He, eventually, learned that trade and worked at It for many years. He was married in Germany previous to emigrating to this country. This was in 1867, and about two months after marriage the young couple started out for the "land of the free." Twentv-five years' ago he purchased the farm where he still resides and there the nine children were raised. Frank married Katrina Ginther and resides in Chicago; Minnie married Henry Kohls and had three children, two of whom died. Mrs. Kohls died some time ago, when Mr. Kohls chose as his second wife his first wife's sister, Mary; they now reside in Ottawa, and have one child. Anna is unmarried and keeps the home for the father; Josephine became the wife of John Yauch, and they reside in Middletown, this state; Elizabeth married Joseph Tomlinson and lives in Dayton; Gustav died when a baby of but one year; Lena married Alva Cox and lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and William chose Lavina Seimetz as his life companion and they reside on a farm in Greensburg township, this county. Frank's wife passed away on July 24, 1893.

Two years ago, in 1913, Mr. Doepker, in company with his friend, Harry Landwehr, of Glandorf, this county, made a journey back to the Fatherland, remaining there for two months. They visited scenes of Frank's days and traveled extensively throughout the Empire, sightseeing and enjoying many sights of which he had merely heard when a young man and living there.

Frank W. Doepker's farm contains seventy-eight acres and he carries on general farming. He has erected all the buildings on the place and made all the improvements. He is a Democrat and at one time served as assessor -of the township. He is a communicant of the Roman Catholic church, being of the parish at Miller City. Mr. Doepker is a genial and friendly man who has a host of friends and is much liked and admired by all who know him, for his sterling qualities of heart and mind.

Joseph Henry Kahle

By the marriage, in the year 1900, of Joseph Henry Kahle to Wilhelmina Smith, there was effected a happy union of two of the oldest families in Putnam county, and it is but fitting that there should be presented in this valuable volume of biographical narrative relating to the prominent families of this county a brief sketch of the head of the new household that was then created.

Joseph Henry Kahle was born on a farm in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, January 18, 1874, the son of Frank Kahle, a member of one of the oldest and best-known families in Putnam county, the genealogy of which will be found set out in a biographical sketch of Frank Kahle, father of the immediate subject of this sketch, presented elsewhere in this volume.

Joseph Henry Kahle was educated in the schools of his native township and grew to manhood on the paternal farm, being carefully instructed in all the details of farming life, and there he remained until his marriage, in the year I900, after which he moved on a farm of eighty acres, which he had purchased in section 17 of Union township, where he has since made his home. This original eighty acres was a part of the old Kahle farm, and Mr. Kahle later added to the same a tract of one hundred and eightytwo acres adjoining, eighty acres of which lies in Greensburg township. TJns farm is noted far and near for the excellent character of its buildings, there being eight in all upon it, all of the most substantial structure from the splendid dwelling house to the humblest outbuilding, and all of which are designed for the greatest convenience and comfort. Mr Kahle believes in taking proper care of his domestic animals, and the buildings erected for them have left nothing to be desired for the most humane treatment of his stock.

In addition to his considerable operations in the line of general farming and stock raising, Mr. Kahle has become a potent figure in the business life of his community, and is reckoned as among the leading men in that section of the county in all things pertaining to the highest development of the commumty interest. He is the president of the Peoples Bank at Kalida and IS well known and popular among the business men in all parts of the county There are few public enterprises, affecting his immediate neighborhood, m which Mr. Kahle is not in some manner interested, and his influence m the affairs of that section of the county is growing constantly

. jTf 7^ ^'''^' "^^^ ""''"^ '"^ marriage, on November 7, 1900 to Wilhelmma Smith, daughter of the late L. Jacob Smith, who, for man^ years, was one of the best loved and most influential men in that part of the county For further details of the genealogy of Mrs. Kahle the reader is referred to the biographical sketch of her brother, Frank Smith, presented -elsewhere m this volume. cscnieu fno Ik ; t°" " ^"^"'^ ''' ^9-' J^^^Ph Cyrrels, born on July ,' 1904; Alfred Harry, born on June 5, 1906; Hubert Joseph, bom on De cember 30, 1909; Florentine Mary, born on July 27, 191 1 CletuT Tndd born on March 3:, 19:3. and August Robert VicL,trn on April .4 T^' This promising quiverful of youngsters keep things lively about the Kahfe home and are the great delight of their devoted parents' Les

Mr. and Mrs. Kahle are members of St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida, and their children are being reared in the firm faith of the churchy to which institution they are devoted and are earnest and active supporters of its various beneficences, their service to the parish being as unselfish as it is generous. In all the other good works of the community they are also deeply interested, and no couple in that part of the county is more popular or more highly esteemed than are Mr. and Mrs. Kahle.

Mr. Kahle is a man of the most engaging personality, wholesome and genial in his demeanor and popular with all. He is a good farmer and an excellent business man, and is doing well his part in the community.

Joseph Kerner

The true measure of individual success is determined by what one has accomplished. An enumeration of those men of the present generation who have been successful in their life work and who, at the same time, have left the impress of their strong personality upon the community, men who have won honor and recognition for themselves and who have conferred honor upon the locality in which they reside, would be incomplete with a failure to make specific mention of Joseph Kerner, a well-known retired farmer of Greensburg township. His life has been a busy one, but he has never allowed anything to interfere with his Christian obligations or the faithful performance of his church duties. Mr. Kerner has lived to rear a large family which is highly esteemed and respected throughout all Putnam county.

Joseph Kerner was born on September 24, 1848, in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio. He is the son of Mathias and Elizabeth Kerner. Mathias Kerner was born in German)^, and his wife was born in Pennsylvania. The former came to America and settled in Putnam county early in life, but prior to arriving in Putnam county he spent three years in South Carolina. His wife came to Putnam county from Pennsylvania after the death of her parents. She met and married Mathias Kerner and they moved to the farm where Joseph Kerner now lives. They acquired a substantial competency and Hved upon this farm during practically their entire life.

Joseph Kerner, the subject of this sketch, was reared on his father's farm and attended the public schools in Putnam county. Mr. Kerner was married on November 6, 1872, to Mary Schaeffer. She was born on Novem- ber i8, 1853, and is the daughter of Henry and Agnes (Hoffman) Schaeffer Both her parents were born in Germany, and were there married Three days after their marriage, Henry and Agnes Schaeffer came to America and settled in Brooklyn, New York, where they remained for some time' Subsequently, they removed to West Virginia, and, eventually, came to Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, where Mr. Schaeffer followed the blacksmith trade, which he had learned in his native country. They lived in Putnam county for many years and reared a family of four children, John was born in 1856, Clara was born in 1859, Mary became the wife of Mr Kerner, and Clara, deceased, married Barney Kolaff. John was thrice married, the first time to Theresa Schrader, the second to Katrina Recker and the third time to Caroline Lemkuhle. After their marriage, Joseph Kerner and wife moved to Mr. Kerner's farm in section 22, Greensburg township and here they have spent practically their entire life.

Joseph Kerner and wife are the parents of the following children- Mathias, born on April 6, 1874; Elizabeth, born on December 6 187s - Carolina, born on November 9, 1877, and died on October 21, 1881 - Amalia was born on November 22, 1879; Katrina was born on January 26 188,2-

«r ; Z^'^T °" °'''"^''' ^' '^^4' ^^^'^ A"" ^^^ born on April 26.' 1887; John Edward was born on November 3, 1889; Rosa was born on October 20, 1892. Elizabeth Kerner married Barney Merschman, and they have the following children: Philomena, Edward, Clara, Frank Bernard and two who died in infancy. Their home is in Ottawa. Amalia married John Ko hoff and they hve near Alma, Michigan. They have four children, Wilfred, Alvme, Cletus and Collette. Katrina married Barney Gerdmg and they have six children, Clarence, Louis, Adelia, Edwin, Marcella and Ambrose. Mary T. married John Siebeneck and they have two chiWren are proud of their^ many grandchildren and are a happy couple. Mrs Kerner is a very active woman, of motherly disposition. The Kerner family has been very highly esteemed in Putnam county for several generations. All the members of this family are affiliated with the Catholic church, and politically, most of the Kerners are Democrats.

John B. Edelbrock

John B. Edelbrock, to a short sketch of whose career the attention of the reader is directed, was born on the- farm where he now lives on May ii, 1871, being a son of Henry and Theresa Edelbrock.

Mr. Edelbrock is a descendant of some of the oldest pioneers of this section, being a grandson of Peter and Anna M. Edelbrock, who were natives of Prussia, Germany, and were married in that country about 1823 and remained in Germany until about 1834, when they emigrated to America, landing at Baltimore. They remained here for a short time, then came and joined Father Horstman's colony of German settlers in Glandorf, Putnam county, and after a short time settled on a farm near Glandorf, where they lived until death. He died in 1844, and his wife in 1864. They located on a farm in Greensburg township, containing eighty acres. This was government land which they secured and virgin soil. They lived the life of the pioneers to the day when they could see their farm developed into a clean and productive piece of land. Their children were, Frank, William, Andrew, Henry, father of our immediate subject; Clara and Christina, Charles, Edward and Theodore, all of whom are now deceased. Frank and William served in the same Ohio regiment during the Civil War, and Frank was killed during a battle. They served in the Thirty-seventh Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

Henry Edelbrock received his education in the district schools near his home, and also at Glandorf. During his young manhood he worked on his father's farm and, in 1857, was united in marriage to Theresa Siebeneck and, after their marriage, they went to live on the farm which is now occupied by the subject. Theresa was the daughter of Henry and Mary Siebeneck, also of the Province of Hanover, Germany, and members of the same colony above referred to. They took up a tract of government land, containing forty acres, and there they lived until the end of their lives. There were two daughters in the family, the other being Mary, who became the wife of Barney Ellerbrock and lives in Glandorf. She is widowed, her husband having been dead for some time. Both Henry and Theresa Edel- brock have passed from this life, but they leave behind them the memory of thrifty, honest lives, and both were of so genuinely friendly natures that they were much liked and esteemed by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

John B. Edelbrock is one of a family of eight children, namely : Frank, William, Mary, Kate, John, Joseph, Benjamin and Minnie. Frank is in Central America. William married Theresa Huester and lives in Greensburg township. He is the father of three children, Hulda, Louis and Elnora. Mary became the wife of Henry Fipp, of Glandorf, and is the mother of two children, Charles and August. Kate is Mrs. Frank Erhart, of Greensburg township, and is the mother of six children, Laura, Flora, Benjamin, Harry, Edna and Minnie; both boys, however, being deceased. Benjamin married Elnora Kacht and lives in Greensburg township. ' He has four children, Velma, Clarence, Raymond and Mabel. John, Joseph and Minnie remain unmarried. The father of this family died in 1907 and the mother passed away in 1912.

John B. Edelbrock, with his sister, Minnie, lives on the old homestead. This farm contains one hundred and twenty acres, all under cultivation, with good buildings. They are accounted among the good and substantial people of the community and are much liked. Both are members of St. John's, Glandorf, the entire family being communicants of the Roman Catholic church. The Edelbrock family from the very earliest arrival in this country have been, and are today, among that substantial class of Germans who have done much for Putnam county and its material prosperity.

Lewis Simon

One of the influential citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, is Lewis Simon, who, for many years, has been a well-known farmer in Greensburg township! He is a man of excellent endowments and upright character and has been a valued factor in local affairs. Mr. Simon has long commanded the unequivocal confidence and esteem of the people of Putnam county. He has been loyal to the upbuilding of his community and ever vigilant in his efforts to promote the interests of his county, morally and otherwise. Although Mr. Simon is enfeebled and is no longer able to work, as he formerly did, he is possessed of a remarkable memory and is, personally, familiar with the most mteresting details of the entire growth of this section of Putnam county.

Lewis Simon was bom on April 24, 1838, in Putnam county. He is the son of John P. and Savilla (Genshimer) Simon, the former of whom was born in Kintingheim, Germany, on the Rhine, and the latter of whom was also born in Germany, in 1812.

John P. and Savilla (Genshimer) Simon had several children, as follow: John, a farmer near Dupont, Ohio, who was born in Germany; Catherine and Philip have long been deceased; Lewis, the subject of this sketch; Jacob, who died in childhood; Barbara, who became the wife of Michael Rinkle, of Dupont; Louisa, deceased; Sophia married the Rev. Philip Kesler, of Dupont; Mrs. A. L. Hauck, of Ottawa; Anna, who became the wife of W. J. Varner, of Greensburg township; Savilla, who married J. W. Parnell, of Greensburg township; Elizabeth, deceased, and John Adam, who died at the age of ten years.

After their marriage, John P. and SaviUa (Genshimer) Simon, came to the United States, locating in Philadelphia. Subsequently, they located in Richland county, Ohio, where they were pioneers. They located in Putnam county, Ohio, in 1836. John P. purchased a tract of wild land, upon which he lived until 1863. During all of this period he was closely identified with the pioneer history of the county. He became a general merchant at Ottawa, in 1863, and was successful. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity at Defiance and afterward became a charter member of the lodge at Kalida. He was a commissioned officer in the state militia and stood high in Putnam county as one of the leading exponents of law and order. Before the Civil War, he was identified with the Democratic party, but after that, was independent in politics. He was prominent in politics, locally, and filled many offices. He died on April 29, 1888, at which time he was a member of the Presbyterian church. John P. Simon's first wife, Savilla Genshimer, the mother of all of his children except John Adam, died in 1856. Later he married Mrs. Margaret M. Landis, who bore him one son, John Adam, in 1859. His third wife was Mrs. Margaret Hedges, who died on March 2q 1895.

Lewis Simon, the son of John P. and Savilla (Genshimer) Simon, was reared on the farm and obtained his education in the log school house, typical of his day and generation. Lewis Simon was first married on April 13, 1861, to Barbara M. Dangler, daughter of George and Fannie (Fender) Dangler. Four children were born to this marriage, Anna married H. J. Kirkendall; Veronica married George Ridenour; John A. lived to be fortyfive years of age, and Barbara died in infancy. Mrs. Barbara M. (Dangler) Simon died on May 11, 1868. Mr. Simon was next married to Jennie Apger on March 13, 1870. She was a daughter of John R. and Elizabeth Apger, and a native of Carroll county, Ohio, born on February 10, 1874. To this second marriage seven children were born, Mary L. died on October 31, 1876; Charles E., married Carrie Shafer, and lives in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, and they have six children, Paul, Helen, Mary, George, Margaret and Ruth Anna; Chester L. was first married to Maud Jenkins, daughter of David Jenkins and wife, and had three children by this marriage, Edna, Gale and Lowell; he was married a second time to Carrie Holbgewoks, daughter of John Holbgewoks, of Putnam county, and lives in Palmer tovroship, Putnam county; Ora A. married P. D. Russell, son of John P. and Carolina Russell, of luka, Illinois, and they have one child, Jennie; -Lewis W., Jr., married Grace Keck, daughter of Levi and Lucy Keck, of Continental, Ohio; Lewis W., Jr., died in 191 1 ; he was survived by his wife and three children, Edna, Robert and Howard, the widow and children now living in McBride, Michigan; Blanche married Ralph Schaefer, son of John :and Ruth Schaefer; they live in Perry township, Putnam county, and have two children, Geraldine and Howard; Ralph B., the youngest living child, was bom on September 15, 1887. He attended the common schools of Putnam county, and also attended the Continental high school. After that he entered the Ohio State University and took the degree of Bachelor of Science. Raph B. Simon was a student from 1908 to 1912. During his college life, he was a director of the glee club. He married Rowena Kuntz on May 22, 1913, and makes his home at his father's farm. His wife's par- -ents were natives of Putnam county and were farmers. Her father died in 1912.

Lewis Simon is a man of remarkable memory. He has led an active life and chafes at the thought of enforced idleness on account of his sickness. His farm consists of one hundred and fifty-five acres of splendid land, where general farming is carried on. Ralph B., who has active charge of the farm, also specializes in stock raising. The buildings on the farm are models of completeness. The farm is one of the best in Putnam county. The barn especially is not excelled in Putnam county for size, substantiality and convenience. Mr. Simon is a member of Masonic Lodge No. 325, at Ottawa. Until recent years he has been active in the United Brethren church and an active Sunday school worker. Lately, he has been identified with the Prohibition party. He has filled the office of justice of the peace of Greensburg township in a most satisfactory manner.

was born in New Jersey, in 1816, and was a son of Isaac Apger, also a native of New Jersey and of English descent. Isaac Apger was one of the pioneer farmers of Carroll county, Ohio, and moved to Wood county in 1847, when, that county was unbroken wilderness. John R. Apger, Mrs. Simon's father, was educated in New Jersey and reared as a farmer. He learned the shoerpaker's trade and worked at it occasionally. He married Elizabeth Atchley,. in 1837. She was a daughter of Isaac and Anna (Van Horn) Atchley, natives of New Jersey, but who later resided in New York. To this marriage the following children were born : Mary C. ; Mrs. Lewis Simon ; Marion M. ; Isaac N., deceased; Anderson S., who was a soldier in the Civil War; Alletty A., deceased, and Lizzie, also deceased. Mrs. Elizabeth Apger was bom in New Jersey in 181 2 and moved with her parents to New York before her marriage. Mr. Apger settled in Carroll county in 1865, farming there for ten years. He then moved to Wood county, Ohio, and entered a tract of land, clearing the land and teaching school in the meantime. His first wife died on March 25, 1865. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Apger was next married in Wood county, in 1866, to Mrs.. Matilda Wyckoff, and four children were born to this marriage, Benton, Earl J., Cloise and Blanche. Mr. Apger was a Democrat in politics. He died on May 12, 1882. He was also a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

George D. Kinder

There is no agency which exerts a more powerful influence upon the nation today than the press, and the editor who keeps in close touch witL the progress of the times and faithfully records the news from day to day,, is performing a mission of inestimable value. Ohio has several hundred newspapers, and there is not a county but has its local papers, usually both of the leading political parties being represented thereby. Putnam county Democracy has supported the Putnam County Sentinel for nearly threequarters of a century, and the paper, during all of these years has stood not only for the principles of the party, but has also taken an active part in the advancement of every measure which has been proposed for the general welfare of the county.

For nearly half a century George D. Kinder has been connected in one capacity or another with the Sentinel, and his record as a newspaper man' is such that he rightly ranks with the leaders of the profession in the state of Ohio. Starting in to learn the business when a mere youth, he has made it his hfe work, and the success which has attended, his efforts is ample evidence of his ability. As a newspaper editor, as a county official, as a member of the school board of Ottawa, as a successful business man, as a public-spirited citizen and as a man devoted to his home and family, George D. Kinder may justly be included among the truly representative men of his county and state.

George D. Kinder was born in Franklin, Warren county, Ohio, November 6, 1836, a son of Captain George and Ehza (Schnorf) Kinder. On the paternal side he traces his ancestry back to the burghers of Holland, and the Dutch characteristics of thrift and conscientious devotion to duty have beea handed down through each succeeding generation. After receiving a good common school education, the youthful George entered the printing office of his brother when he was fifteen years of age. His brother, at that time, was the owner and editor of the Haiiiilfou Telegraph, one of the leading papers of that city. He served as an apprentice for a few years and learned all the little details which go to make a successful newspaper man. He then worked as a journeyman printer until 1862, when he went to Sandusky,. Ohio, and established the Erie County News, a Democratic weekly, which. he published until 1864. He then moved his newspaper plant to Port Clinton, Ohio, and founded the Ottawa County News. He continued this paper for only a short time and then disposed of it to advantage and purchased the Greenville (Ohio) Democrat. This paper was not very prosperous when Mr. Kinder took charge of it, but, under his able management, it was soon put on a paying basis. For two years he remained in Greenville at the head of the paper and then disposed of it at a handsome profit. His next venture was with the Bncyrus Forum, which he managed and edited for Thomas Coughlin until the summer of 1867.

Mr. Kinder came to Ottawa, Ohio, in June, 1867, and purchased an mterest in the Putnam County Sentinel, becoming the editor and general manager of the paper. A year later he became the sole owner of the^paper, retaining the ownership until in January, 1900. A complete history of thispaper is given in the newspaper chapter elsewhere in this volume. Dur his long connection with the paper Mr. Kinder made it one of the leadi Democratic papers of this section of the state. While he was always ct fearless advocate of the principles and policies of his party, he was always fair to his political opponents and won their resi^ect if he did not secure their favor. As long as he was connected with the paper he refused to become a candidate for public office, although he was frequently importuned to do SO by his many friends. It is safe to say that, for a quarter of a century, he was the leader of his party, not only in local matters, but also for many years one of the men who helped to shape the policies of his party in -State affairs. Serving frequently on congressional and state committees, he was thrown in touch with the leaders of his party in the state, and was thus given an opportunity to be of benefit to the party whose cause he so ably espoused.

After retiring from the Sentinel in 1900, Mr. Kinder became a candidate for county treasurer and was elected, in the fall of the same year, by a handsome majority. His first term gave such universal satisfaction that he was renominated by his party and again elected, filling the office for a of four years. He introduced many needed reforms in the administration of the duties connected with the office and had the satisfaction of knowing that his changes in the conduct of the office have been followed by his successors. After leaving the treasurer's office, Mr. Kinder was elected a member of the board of public affairs, and has been re-elected two years since the passage of the law creating the office. His present term expires in January, 1916. The only other public office which he has held was that of school director, filling a position on the board of Ottawa for five years.

When Mr. Kinder retired from the newspaper business, in 1900, he never expected to identify himself with a paper again, but the call of the press could not be denied. Immediately after leaving the treasurer's office he found himself unable to keep away from the Sentinel office, and few went by which did not see him at his old desk. He assumed complete editorial management of the Sentinel in 191 1, and continued in this capacity until 1913, when A. P. Sandles became the editor. Since that time Mr. Kinder has devoted himself to the local department of the paper, and the chances are that he will retain his connection with the paper as long as he is able to get to the office. For considerably more than half a century Mr. Kinder has been in the newspaper business, and it is probable that there is not a man in the state who can ec[ual his record for continuous service.

Mr. Kinder was married in February, 1869, to Zella Gordon, and to this union have been born two children, Gordon and Zella. Gordon was educated in the Ottawa schools and later graduated from the law department of Ohio State University. He married Charlotte Duncan and has two interesting little children. He is now practicing law in Martins Ferrv, Ohio. Zella, the other child of Mr. and Mrs. Kinder, is the wife of J. C. ^Spencer, a real estate and insurance agent of Findlay, Ohio.

Mr. Kinder has been a director of the Ottawa Home and Savings Association for many years and has extensive property interests in his home town. As a newspaper man he has been unusually successful in a financial way, and has always invested his money in local enterprises. In his social connections, Mr. Kinder is a member of the Masonic fraternity, holding his membership in the blue lodge, chapter and council at Ottawa, and in Shawtiee commandery at Lima. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Royal Arcanum.

The publishers were glad to avail themselves of Mr. Kinder's services in the preparation of the present history of Putnam county. His connection with the leading newspaper of the county during the past half century and his active participation in every phase of the county's development makes him as able an editor as could be secured for a work of this kind.

Frank F. Verhoff

Among the men of sterling worth and strength of character who have made an impression upon the life of the locality in which they live, none .have received a larger reward of popular respect and regard than Frank F. Verhoff, whose family name is well known throughout this section of the Lifelong residence in one locality has given the people an opportunity to know him in every phase of his character, arid that he has been true to life in such measure, is manifest in the degree of confidence and regard in which he is held by those who know him.

Frank F. Verhoff was born in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, March -24, 1847, and is the son of Francis and Mary (Kramer) Verhoff. The paternal grandparents were born, lived and died in Germany, and the maternal grandparents, Theodore and Gertrude (A^eraking) Kramer, were married in -Germany and resided there many years. Coming to this country when Mr. Kramer was about fifty years of age, they settled on a farm in Putnam Ohio, and to them were born six children, William, Henry, Catherine, Christena, Mary and Frederick, all of whom are now deceased, excepting a son, Frederick.

Francis Verhoff, father of Frank F. Verhoff, was born in Westphalia, Prussia, and came to America in the year 1836, by himself, and settled on a small tract consisting of twenty-six acres, near the town of Glandorf, Putnam' -county, Ohio. He, having learned the trade of a blacksmith, bore the reputa- tion of having started the first shop of this kind in Putnam county, the same having been operated in connection with the farm for many years. This shop carried a reputation for doing first-class worlcmanship and furnishing high-grade material for the work at hand.

About the year 1837, Francis Verhoff and Mary Kramer were joined in wedlock and took up their residence on the former's farm. To them were born eleven children, Theodore, Gertrude, Christena, Catherine, Mary Ann, Frank, Henry, William, now deceased; Charles, William and Florentine. The father, prior to his death in 1863, had acquired a full section, consisting of six hundred and forty acres of land. With the assistance of his sons, the greater portion of this land was cleared and prepared for general farming and the raising of stock. Mr. Verhoff was one of the pioneer settlers of this community, coming here shortly after the founding of the town of Glandorf . by Professor Horstman, who was a native of Germany. Francis Verhoff and wife were active members of St. John's Catholic church, of Glandorf, Ohio, from which church they were buried during the year 1901, leaving behind them reputations for high-class citizenship and setting a good example for posterity to imitate.

Frank F. Verhoff, the subject of this review, received his education in the county schools and lived under the parental roof until the time of his marriage on April 30, 1873, and up to which time he had acquainted himself with the necessary knowledge for farming by assisting his father around the place. His wife was Catherine Mersman, whose parents, Henry and Elizabeth (Recker) Mersman, were natives of Germany, but who came to this country separately. By their marriage, besides Catherine, were born Theresa, Henry and Mary. Theresa is the wife of Henry Drerup and lives in Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio; Henry is married to Anna Hulker, and now lives in the town of Glandorf, Ohio.

Soon after the marriage of Frank F. Verhoff, he, with his wife, took up their residence on the one hundred and forty-four acres which was deeded to him at the time of the elder Verhoff's death, being a portion of the six hundred and forty acres acquired during his lifetime, all of which was divided among the sons. The children born to Frank F Verhoff and wife are : Elizabeth, born on January 20, 1875, and deceased on January 4, 1878; Anna, born on November 19, 1877; Mary, born on February 24, 1881, and Frank, born on March 11, 1884. Of these children, Anna became the wife of Frank Kahle and to them were born four children, their mother now being deceased; Mary was married to Lawrence Hamel and they have three children, and reside near Kalida, Ohio; Frank married Nora Schoeder and they have three children, the latter family making their home on his father's farm. Besides general farming, a specialty is made of Shorthorn cattle and Duroc hogs. Frank Verhoff's wife died on March 23, 1884.

Mr. Verhoff is a stanch supporter of the Democratic party. He is a member of St. John's Catholic church of Glandorf, Ohio. In farming, political and social circles, Mr. Verhoff enjoys a wide acquaintance and is deserv- -edly popular, possessing, to a marked degree, those qualities of character which win and retain friendship. He is quiet, unassuming and very intelligent. He is retired from active work.

Frank Kahle, Sr

Although some time has elapsed since the subject of this memoir was called into the life beyond, yet his memory is still fresh in the minds and hearts of many of his friends and neighbors. Frank Kahle was a popular man in his own community and had the reputation of being a man of boundless energy and ambition. It is said that those who live the closest to us know us best and, this being true, Frank Kahle was indeed a worthy man, for those most closely associated with him hold him the dearest in their memories.

Frank Kahle, Sr., was a native of this county, born in Greensburg towntownship on his father's farm on December 21, 1839. He was a son of John F. and Bernadina (Wilberding) Kahle, who were among the oldest settlers of this community. The Kahle family has, throughout a long stretch -of years, been numbered among the best citizens of this section and the subject of this memoir added his quota to the excellency of the family name. Frank Kahle was reared on his father's farm in Greensburg township and passed his entire life on the one homestead. In early manhood, he was united in marriage to Bernadina Brinkman, born in this county in 1846, a daughter Henry and Mary (Rieman) Brinkman. The Brinkman's were both natives of the German Empire, and upon emigrating to America, they first located in Cincinnati, Ohio, where, however, they remained but a short time. They, eventually, came to Glandorf, Putnam county, and later engaged in farming. There were two children in the family, Bernadina, widow of Frank Kahle, and John. John chose Minnie Maag as his helpmeet and they were the parents of three children : Frank, Harry and Francis.

with Father Horstman and settled the town of Glandorf. His father was John Kahle, and with Father Horstman, preceded the rest of the colonists, who remained in Detroit, and Father Horstman and John Kahle prepared the settlement for them and they came from Detroit a short time later. His son, Joseph, is president of the Peoples Bank of Kalida, a sketch of whom is found elsewhere in this volume.

To Frank Kahle and wife was born a family of twelve children, as follow: Mary Wilhelmina, deceased; John Frank, John Heinrich Joseph, John Ignatius Gustav, Mary Bernadina Amalia, Theresa Bernadina, Mary Helen Elizabeth, Mary Frances Paulina, deceased; John Heinrich Bernard, Anna Maria Theresa, John August Louie, deceased, and Maria Clara Wilhelmina. Of these children, Mary married Frank Schrader and lived in Greensburg township up to the time of her death. She passed away five years ago and is survived by her husband and nine children. John Heinrich Joseph married Wilhelmina Smith and is the father of six children. Mary Bernadina Amalia became the wife of Hubert Smith and is the mother of eight children. They reside in Greensburg township. Theresa Bernadina remains unmarried, and lives with her mother. Mary Helena Elizabeth is the wife of Frank Smith and is the mother of six children. That family lives in Union township, this county. John Heinrich Bernard chose Anfia Schroeder as his wife and lives on the old family homestead; he is the father of one child. Anna Maria Theresa married Joseph Grote and has one child. Maria Clara Wilhelmina resides with the widowed mother. John Frank married Anna Verhoff, who died later. He is now in the sugar-beet industry. There are four children in ^that family. John Ignatius Gustav married Katrina Duling and they reside on a farm in Greensburg township, where they are raising a family of six children.

Frank Kahle possessed considerable of this world's goods. His father had left him a goodly portion, but by habits of thrift and energy he greatly added to it until he had accumulated quite a fortune. The farm on which his widow continues to reside, contains two hundred acres and it has on it the finest buildings to be seen in many miles. It easily ranks as one of the very finest farms in Putnam county and ranks with the very best throughout this state. Mrs. Kahle has kept up her interest in the farm home, and in spite of her years, is closely associated with her son, Benjamin, in the active management of the farm. Her vitality, both mentally and physically, is far beyond that of the average woman of lesser years and she is well versed in all that pertains to the best interests of their business. The farm is given over to the cultivation of grain and the raising of cattle.

Frank Kahle's death occurred on February 23, 1898, and both himself and family were of the parish of St. John's, Glandorf. It is all too true that our influence lives, a vital force, long after we are gone from this world. This is well when our lives have been all that they should be, and to be deplored when evil influences have been set in motion by us, but the children, of this good man can well be thankful that his life was so lived as to shed a beneficent influence on, not only the ones of his immediate household, but the charm of his personality permeated the lives of his large circle of friends.

Benjamin Edelbrock

Benjamin Edelbrock, member of the well-known family of that name,. connected with the early history of Putnam county, Ohio, was born on his. father's farm in Greensburg township on May 20, 1879. He is a son of Henry and Theresa (Siebeneck) Edelbrock, and Henry in his turn is a som of Peter Edelbrock, who, together with his wife, came from their native: home in the Province of Hanover, German Empire, as members of the colony headed by Father Horstman, which founded the city of Glandorf in this, county. This was about the year 1834, and the Edelbrocks have been prominent in the life of the county ever since.

Benjamin Edelbrock remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage. When a boy he attended the district schools, near hishome, and during spare times was educated in the work about the farm home. He chose as his bride Miss Elnora Kracht, daughter of Frank and Theresa Kracht, with whom he was united in marriage on June 23, 1903.

Frank Kracht, present county commissioner of Putnam county was born at Cmcinnati, Ohio, on December 25, 1851, and six years later was brought by his parents to this county, where they located on a farm near Glandorf. He married Theresa Hoffman, born in Glandorf, on January 6 1859, and to their union was born a family of five daughters, namely Ameha, born on August 22, 1878; Theresa J., born on March 18 1880 - Laura A., born on November 8, 1881 ; Elnora, born on April 24, 1883 and Carolme, born on January 27, 1886. The mother of this familv died on August 29 1886, and Mr. Kracht later united in marriage with Anna Neidert, who bore him six children. Her death occurred on June i^ 1901 and he was agam married, this time to Catherine Pund. Mr. Kracht was for many years a farmer and thresherman and in this way formed a wide

-acquaintance. Being a man of pleasing manner, when he entered the political arena, his success was an assured thing from the start. He has been a has served as clerk of Ottawa township and also as its treasurer, and is at present filling out his term as county commissioner.

Of Mrs. Edelbrock's sisters, Amelia married Louis Welde and resides in Ottawa. She is the mother of four children, one being dead. Laura married Anthony Prusendorfer and is now widowed. She makes her home in Defiance, this state, where also Caroline, who has never married, resides. Theresa married Henry Fembert and lives in Pleasant township, Putnam -county.

After marriage, Benjamin Edelbrock and his wife took up their resi- on the farm where they now live. This contains forty acres, given to him by his father at the time of his marriage, to which he has added another twenty. The land has since been well cleared and -drained. All the buildings have been erected by him and are in good condition. Mr. Edelbrock conducts general farming and also raises a few head of cattle each year for the market. Into the home have come four children, namely: Velma, born on March i6, 1904; Clarence, born on April 10, 1905; Raymond, born on "July 19, 1906, and Mabel, born on February 21, 1912. Mr. Edelbrock is a most agreeable man to meet and Is able to number his friends by the score. He is a Democrat in politics and his religious affiliation is with St. John's at Glandorf. He is an active and ambitious young man, -with the natural industry of his family.

Barney Gerdeman

A member of one of the oldest and best-known families in Putnam Barney Gerdeman, a prosperous and progressive farmer of Union township, this county, enjoys the esteem of all who know him and very properly is accorded a place as among the leading citizens of the part of the county in which he was born and where his whole life has been spent. His wife, also, is a member of one of the old families of the county, and the two are very popular in their large circle of acquaintances.

Barney Gerdeman was born in Union township, Putnam county, Ohio, May II, 1873, the son of Henry and Bernadina (Eickholt) Gerdeman, both natives of Putnam county, the former of whom was born on February 19, 1842, the son of Caspar and Anna Gerdeman, natives of Germany, the latter

Caspar Gerdeman and his wife, Anna, came to America from Germany and located in Putnam county, Ohio, at an early day in the settlement of the county. Here they cleared a farm, and on this farm reared their family and spent the remainder of their lives. They were the parents of seven children, Caspar, Joseph, Henry, Mathias, Theodore, Mary and Elizabeth. Of these, Theodore served in the Civil War as a member of an' Ohio regiment, was captured by the enemy and died in a military prison. Caspar and Anna Gerdeman were prominent and influential members of the community in which they lived and were active in all the good works of that neighborhood. Their bodies are lying at rest in the Grandview cemetery.

Barney Eickholt and his wife, Elizabeth, who was a Nieman, also immigrated from Germany, coming to Putnam county at an early date and on a farm near the town of Glandorf, where they made a prominent place for themselves in the estimation of their neighbors and where they spent the rest of their lives, their bodies lying at rest in the Glandorf cemetery. They were the parents of six children, Joseph, Martha, Henry, William, Charles and Bernardina, the latter of whom was the mother of Bernard Gerdeman.

Henry Gerdeman grew to manhood on the paternal farm near Glandorf, receiving his education in the village school. He was united in marriage to Bernardina Eickholt on May 5, 1868, and made his home on a farm of one hundred and ten acres, which he bought in Union township. He cleared this farm and improved it in excellent shape, erecting thereon a good class of buildings and bringing it to a high state of cultivation, becoming known as one of the most prosperous farmers in that neighborhood. During late years, Henry Gerdeman has been retired from the active work of the farm, though still living on the old home place, which is now the home of his son, Henry. His wife died in March, 191 5.

To Henry and Bernardina (Eickholdt) Gerdeman were born twelve children, as follow: Charles married Anna Busch and lives in Union township; Andrew, who married Ida Baling and is now deceased; Katherine, who married Henry Hamberg and lives in Jackson township, this county; Barney, the subject of this sketch ; John, who married Mary Lang and lives at Delphos, Ohio; William, who married Mary Schroeder and lives in Greensburg township, this county; Elizabeth, who married Henry Verhof¥, and lives near Columbus Grove ; Amelia, who married William Morman and lives near Leipsic, this county; Josephine, who is unmarried; Bernadina, who married Joseph Morman and Hves in Greensburg township; Henry, who married Emma Merschman and hves on the old home farm, and Mathias, who married Emily Schumacher and lives in Union township.

Barney Gerdeman was reared on the old home farm in Union township and attended the neighborhood school in his youth, making a good account of the time spent in the school room. He assisted his father on the farm, remaining there until his marriage in 1898, when he moved upon a farm of ninety acres in Union township, that had previously been purchased by him, where he has lived ever since. This farm he has improved in fine shape, his buildings being substantial and of a modern type, the place presenting a general air of prosperity which marks its owner as a progressive and up-todate farmer.