Putnam County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1915 (part 21 of 33)

John Maidlow, the father of Mrs. McDougle, was a native of England his birth having occurred there on February 11, 1812, and, in 1820 was brought to America by his parents who located in Baltimore, Maryland Ti later returned to England, where the mother and one daughter d^d Th ather hen returned to Baltimore, bringing the remainder of the fan^ly with years of age when he can ., to Ohio and found employment in Knox county, on a farm. He came to Putnam county in 1837 ^'^d entered forty acres of land in Blanchard township, in section 17, and in the fall of that year erected a cabin. In March, 1838, he brought his family to this county, where he lived the remainder of his life. He added to his original purchase, from time to time, until he had accumulated a farm of eight hundred acres in one tract. He erected a fine brick residence and became one of the largest and most substantial farmers of the township. He was a Whig in earlier years, but, in 1856, became a Democrat and continued to vote the Democratic ticket as long as he lived. He served two terms as township trustee and gave his fellow citizens satisfactory service in this capacity. He married Lucinda Dowde, the daughter of William Dowde, to which union fourteen children were born, eleven of whom grew to maturity : James S. ; Mrs. Elizabeth Conine; Mrs. Ann Sandel; William, deceased; Mrs. Rebecca J. Buckland; Mrs. Agnes Wolford, deceased; Mrs. Alice Brooks; Alfred S. ; Putnam; Mrs. Lenna Huntzman and Mrs. Martha McDougle.

Herman McDougle is a thirty-second degree Mason, and a charter member of Toledo consistory and a noble of the mystic shrine. He and his family are adherents of the Methodist church.

Stephen A. Kagy

Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, never fails of success. It carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individual character and acts as a powerful stimulus to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are often- attained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunities for acquiring experience of the best kind and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effort and self-improvement. In this connection, it is frequently observed that the man who starts with no capital other than his own determination and industry achieves success far greater than that of his neighbors, who started in life with far greater advantages.

Stephen A. Kagy was born in Bloomville, Seneca county, Ohio, on June 6, 1877, a son of Benjamin F. and Barbara (Miller) Kagy. Benjamin Kagy was born in Seneca county, Ohio, on August 30, 1840, a son of Abraham and Elizabeth Kagy, both of whom were born in Pennsylvania.

Benjamin Kagy moved to Blanchard township, Putnam county, in the spring of 1878, and settled on the Sugar Ridge road, about four miles east of Leipsic, where he bought one hundred and eighty-five acres of farm land. That land he continued to farm until the time of his death, August 21, 1892.

Benjamin Kagy's wife, Barbara Miller, is a native of Germany and a daughter of Christopher Miller and wife. She came to America with her parents when she was a child and settled in Seneca county, Ohio, where she lived until her marriage with Benjamin Kagy. Benjamin and Barbara (Miller) Kagy were the parents of five children, as follow: Stephen, the subject of this sketch; Henry, who married Rena Parker and lives in Wood county, Ohio, and has two children, Vitus and Donald; Nettie, the wife of David Devore, and the mother of two children, Almo and Franklin ; Anabelle, the wife of B. F. Davis of Ada, Ohio, and the mother of one daughter, Dorothy; and Myrtle, the wife of Vincent Hill of Findlay, Ohio.

Stephen A. Kagy was only nine months of age when his parents came to Putnam county. He grew to manhood on the old homestead and has made his home there throughout his life. June 9, 1898, he married Ella Devore, a daughter of George W. and Mary J. (Bracy) Devore. She was born in Hancock county, Ohio, March 19, 1881.

Mrs. Stephen A. Kagy's father, George W. Devore, was born in Carroll county, Ohio, a son of William and Fanny Devore. His wife was born in Putnam county, Ohio, a daughter of John and Mary Bracy, both of whom were natives of France. Nine children were born to George W. and Mary J. (Bracy) Devore, as follow: John, who married Dora Reid; Isaac, who married Minnie Osenbaugh; George, who married Electa Ingle; David, who married Nettie Kagy; Henry, who married Olga Cowden; Lillie, the wife of Charles Johns; Samuel, who married Mary Miller; Ella, the wife of the subject of this sketch, and Jennie, the wife of Jacob Miller.

Stephen A. Kagy ha? followed general farming all his life and has met with great success in his endeavors. He started life with nothing, but has improved every opportunity and has developed his holdings until he now owns one hundred and forty-four acres of land, all in a high state of improvement.

Stephen A. is a supporter of the Democratic party and has always taken an intelligent interest in political matters, although he has never taken an active part in politics or aspired to public office. Both Stephen Kagy and wife are members of the United Brethren church and are active in church work. Mr. Kagy is highly esteemed by all his neighbors and is regarded as being a man of pronounced energy and ability and the possessor of many sterling qualities. He is always found on the right side of every important local question which arises and has done his part toward maintaining the high standard of his community.

Joseph Borgelt, Jr

An enterprising and successful young business man of Ottawa, Ohio, is Joseph Borgelt, Jr., who has spent his entire life in this place. His ancestors, on both sides, are natives of Germany, and the same characteristics of thrift and industry which have distinguished the people of Germany have made Mr. Borgelt one of the most substantial of the younger business men of Ottawa. Starting out, before reaching his majority, as a carpenter he has branched out in the contracting business and is now one of the largest builders in the county. He owns a planing mill and lumber yard in Ottawa, where he has been operating since 191 1.

Joseph Borgelt, Jr., the son of Joseph and Theresa (Smith) Borgelt, was born in Ottawa, in 1881. His father was born in the southwest corner of Ottawa township, this county, in 1856J and is a son of William and Theresa (Sliter) Borgelt, natives of Glandorf, Germany. William Borgelt and family came from Germany in 1816, and were among the earliest settlers in Ottawa township in this county.

Joseph Borgelt, Sr., was born and reared on the farm which his father entered upon coming to this county, where he lived until 1880, in which year he came to Ottawa, married Theresa Smith and engaged in the saloon business. Theresa Smith was born at New Cleveland, and is a daughter of Jacob and Margaret Smith, natives, of Germany. For sixteen years, Joseph Borgelt, Sr., was engaged in the saloon business in Ottawa, at the expiration of which time he disposed of this business and has since been assisting his son, Joseph, Jr. The senior Borgelt built a large brick business block in Ottawa in 1890, which is now occupied by Joseph Brinkler.

Joseph Borgelt, Jr., was reared and educated in Ottawa and, when eighteen years of age, started to learn the carpenter's trade. Within a short time he began contracting on a small scale and, after building two small houses, built one of the largest barns in the county, about two and one-half miles southeast of Ottawa. He put a tile roof on this barn, and so well did he do the work that the roof is stih in a good condition. He bought out Frank Elhs's planing-mill in 191 1 and a year later took Mr. ElHs in as a partner. They operated a planing mill and did general contracting in partnership until the death of Mr. Ellis, in 1913. Since that time, Mr. Borgelt has managed the business alone. He added a lumber yard in 19 14 and bought an automobile truck in order to better take care of his constantly increasing business to a better advantage. In the summer of 1914, he furnished the building material for four houses in Leipsic, two in Ottawa, and one at Gilboa. He is also building a large business block at Continental, Ohio, as well as some houses near Ottawa. Mr. Borgelt is a practical workman, and thoroughly understands every phase of the building industry.

Joseph Borgelt was married in 1907 to Loretta Nisley, who was born in Defiance county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Henry and Maria (Langdon) Nisley, natives of that county. Mr. Nisley owns a farm near Defiance, where the family make their home.

Joseph Borgelt is a Democrat, but his business interests have consumed so much of his time that he has never been an active participant in political affairs or aspired to public office. He is a member of the Home Guards lodge. Mr. Borgelt is an active and progressive man in business affairs, and is deserving of much credit for the success which has come to him since starting out in life on his own account.

Raymond G. Clark

Raymond G. Clark is one of the best known young men of Continental, Ohio. He is a young man whose fondness for athletic sport has led him into the field of professional baseball and a brilliant career is predicted for him. Just now he is under contract as a pitcher for the Evansville (Indiana) team of the Central League, and here he is expected to distinguish himself during the season of 191 5. Raymond G. Clark is a young man of splendid physique and upright moral habits. He thoroughly appreciates what is expected of the successful athlete of this day and generation and has been wise enough to take the very best care of himself, that he might be fairly equipped for his chosen profession.

and Emma (Clark) Clark. Hiram and Emma Clark, both of German descent, were born in Pennsylvania and later migrated to Florida, Ohio,, where they were early pioneers. Hiram was a maker of grain cradles and a man of natural mechanical ability. He was also a splendid gunsmith and, in his prime, did much gun choking. It was a fine trade, during his day and generation. He was an expert in the manufacture of cradles and sold many of his own make. Hiram and Emma Clark had a family of five children, Henry is deceased ; William lives in Missouri ; Alvera is a manufacturer of guns in Toledo; Mrs. Ella Dudley lives at Defiance; Frank, a veteran of the Civil War, lives in the Soldier's Home at Dayton, Ohio, Hiram died at Holgate, Ohio, in Henry county, in 1878, at the age of sixty-nine years, where his wife, Emma, lived as a widow for twelve years after his death and then married Sol. Sands of Leipsic, Ohio, where she lived until his death in 1907. She then purchased property in Defiance, Ohio, and moved there and died at the age of seventy-eight years, in 191 1. Hiram Clark lived for some time in Florida, Ohio, and later moved to Holgate, where he followed the carpenter trade until his death. Emma Clark, his wife, was the daughter of Henry Clark and wife, but was not of blood relation to her husband. Henry Clark and wife were of German descent. They came to Putnam county when Emma was ten years of age, where they settled in Ottawa, Ohio, and were early pioneers. Henry Clark was a blacksmith and built probably the first blacksmith shop in Putnam county. He was considered an expert at his trade. He also made picks and handles. He suffered the privations of early pioneer life and often heard the whoops of Indians and the howling of wolves. He did his share toward the improvement of the county, and was an industrious man.

Lloyd G. Clark, the father of Raymond G., was married on November 27, 1876, to Mary Noriot, at Napoleon, Ohio. They lived, at Holgate for about seven years, where he was a blacksmith by trade. He was an expert He owned his own shop and later sold it and moved back from Holgate, Ohio, to the farm of his wife's parents, in Henry county, Ohio, where they spent about one year. They then moved to Kalkaska, Michigan, driving overland, with a team, from Holgate, Ohio. It took a week to make the trip. Here Lloyd G. Clark built a new gunsmith shop, which he operated in connection with his blacksmith shop and a candy store. Lloyd G. was an expert gunsmith, also. It seems to be a natural art in this family. He was in Kalkaska county for about two years and then moved back to Henry county, Ohio, on his wife's parents' farm. They spent one year here and then moved to Hector, Ohio, where he again started up, as a gunsmith, where he also renewed the blacksmith trade. After remaining here for about sixyears, they moved to Continental, Ohio, where he bought property and followed his trade for about six years. He then took a position as expert gunsmith on a large government boat and was in that employ for about four years, when he died on January, 1899, at Erie, Pennsylvania. He was a Republican and served as postmaster at Hector, Ohio, for about six years. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, at Dupont, Ohio, but not a member of any church. His wife was a member of the Catholic church at Continental. Lloyd G. Clark was the father of four children, Charles and Emma are deceased; Victor, born on July 4, 1884,. married Stella Hulbert, a native of Monroe township, Putnam county, Ohio. They live at Hudson, Michigan, and have had three children, Ray, Roland,- deceased, and Edna May.

Mrs. Mary (Noirot) Clark was born on May 24, 1 861, at Tiffan, Ohio. She is the daughter of Francis E. and Mary (Minnoes) Noriot. Francis E. Noriot was the son of Francis C. and Francois (Raclot) Noirot, Francis C. was born in the village of Boncourt, county of Nanly, department of Haute Marne, France, in 1798, and was married to Francois Raclot in 1823 at. that place. They came to America, October 27, 1853, landing at Findlay, Ohio, December 8, 1853. He had a family of ten children, Francis, Claude, Mrs. Anna Little, Lawrence, Mrs. Mary Motto, John Magdelena and Nicholas are deceased. Celestian and Mrs. Velaria Joseph are living. Magdelena. died in France. Lawrence came to America alone in 1856. The remainder of the eight children came with Francis C. to America. Francis C. migrated, from New York to Findlay, Hancock county, Ohio, and settled there. He was a farmer, at which he worked for a short time and then came to Putnam county, Ohio, where he lived for a time. Later, they removed to Henry, settling near New Bavaria, where he died on September 26, 1866. Francis was mayor of Boncourt, France, at one time. Francois (Raclot), his wife, was born in December, 1800, and died on February 28, 1898. She also was born at Boncourt, France.

Francis E. Noirot, the father of Mrs. Mary (Noirot) Clark, was born in the village of Boncourt, France, and came with his parents, Francis C. and Francois, to America, settling in Hancock county. He remained on his father's farm and educated himself. He married Mary Minnoes, who was born in Belgium and who was the daughter of Peter Minnoes and wife who were natives of Belgium and who came to America, in 1853, when Mary was twelve years of age. They settled in Seneca county, Ohio, where Peter was a farmer and where Mary was educated and grew to womanhood.-

After his marriage, Francis E. Noirot moved to Tiffin, Ohio, where he owned property and where he foUowed the business of knife-grinding. He also made knives. He was here for some time and later came to Putnam county, Ohio, settling on his father-in-law's farm. Peter Minnoes had previously moved from Seneca county to Putnam county, in Palmer township, where he purchased one hundred acres of land which he cleared, drained, fenced and farmed until his death. Francis E. Noirot and wife remained on this farm until the former's death. They had a family of four children, John, Mary, ,Rose and Katherine, all of whom are deceased. John was a soldier in the Civil War. Mary was the grandmother of Raymond G. Clark.

Raymond G. Clark was educated in the public schools of Continental, Ohio, and attended the high school until eight months before his graduation. He has traveled about the country extensively, having spent one year in the army. His fondness for local sports led him into the baseball arena. He has trained himself for a professional baseball pitcher, has served two seasons as a pitcher for the Central League association and has signed a contract with the Evansville Central League club for the season of 1915 as a pitcher. Mr. Clark has won honors on the baseball diamond and is considered a levelheaded, right-handed pitcher. He has a future before him.

Raymond G. Clark was married on August 7, 1913, to Stella Josephine Bachmann, who was born in Hamilton, Ohio, June 20, 1890, and who is the daughter, of Valentine and Luella (Huber) Bachmann. Valentine Bachmann was born on December 16, i860, in Hamilton, Ohio, and is the son of Henry and Mary Bachmann, the former of whom was born in Bavaria, Germany, and who died in 1884. His wife, Mary, was born in the same place. Valentine Bachmann was educated at St. Stephen Academ}?, in Hamilton, Ohio, at which place he is an expert machinist. He married Louise Huber on June 22, 1888, who died on December 24, 1892. They had two children, Edward, born in 1891, at home, and Mrs. Stella Clark, the wife of the subject of this sketch. Valentine Bachmann is a member of the Socialist party. He is a member of the Bavarian Beneficiary Society and a member of the Catholic church at Hamilton, Ohio. The great-grandmother of Valentine and Louise (Huber) Bachmann's children was a great-granddaughter of John Ouincy Adams, President of the United States. Raymond G. Clark is a member of the Catholic church, as well as his wife. On September i, 1914, he purchased his present business, a restaurant, of his mother, who had been running the same for a number of years. Mr. Clark is a good business man and is well known and well liked for his congenial ways. He is a o-ood ^'mixer." In politics, he is a Democrat.

Raymond G. Clark's mother was married a second time, in 1895, to Andrew Jenkins. They live at Continental and have no children by this marriage. Mr. Clark's mother is a good business woman and a hard worker. She is a saleswoman of unusual ability and has been in the restaurant business for many years. She opened one of the first restaurants in the town and made a success of the business, and is a woman who is well liked.

George Winkelman

The parents of George Winkelman located in Putnam county, Ohio, during the Civil War, coming to this country from Germany in 1862. Mr. Winkelman was reared to the life of a farmer, although, since his marriage, he had been engaged in the wholesale business in Ottawa. A few years ago he retired from active life and is now living in the county seat, where he has made his home for the past quarter of a century.

George Winkelman, the son of Jacob and Caroline (Schwab) Winkelman, was born on August 17, 1862, in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania. His parents, both of whom were natives of Rhinefalz, Germany grew up and married in their native land. They came to America in 1862, and lived for the first year at Allegheny City. They then removed to Putnam county, Ohio, and settled on a farm in the Black swamp, about a mile north of Elm Center, in Liberty township. The country on every side, at that time, was a dense wilderness, and they started life in the midst of a primeval forest. Mr. Winkelman cleared a patch out of the woods large enough on which to build a cabin, and here the family started life in this country. The mother died in January, 1865, leaving her husband with five children living, one daughter having died before her parents came to America. The living children are, Joseph, Jacob, John H., Stephen and George. In February, 1867, Jacob Winkelman married Mrs. Mary (Hilf) Kunkle, the widow of Henry Kunkle. Mrs. Winkelman had a son and three daughters by her first marriage. In the spring of 1873, Jacob Winkelman sold his farm and moved to Tiffin, Ohio, but in the fall of the same year, returned to Putnam county and located at Glandorf, where he lived until his death, in April, i8'9i.

George Winkelman lived on his father's farm in his boyhood days and early in life became innured to hard, manual labor. He helped his father clear the farm and received his education in the schools of New Cleveland and Glandorf. During the summers he worked out on the farms in his immediate neighborhood and was so occupied until he was twenty years of age. He then began working in a brick yard at Glandorf, and, for the next three years, continued at this kind of work. He then spent a year in the western part of Missouri, after which he returned to Glandorf and teamed for about three years. After his marriage, in 1889, he became a distributing agent for a brewing company doing business in Ottawa, and maintained a. cold storage house where he kept the beer. He continued in this line of business until about five years ago, when he retired from active work.

George Winkelman was married, in November, 1889, to Minnie- Schmiedebusch, who was born on a farm three miles west of Glandorf, and is a daughter of John Henry and Elizabeth (Schulte) Schmiedebusch. The mother of Mrs. Winkelman was born in Oldenburg, Germany, and came here with her mother and located near Glandorf among the early settlers. Elizabeth Schulte's father died in Germany. Mrs. Winkelman's father, who wasalso a native of Germany, came to this country after he reached manhood and settled three miles west of Glandorf. Here he married and he and his wifespent the rest of their lives on their farm west of Glandorf. Mrs. Winkelman is one of eleven children, the others being Henry, Elizabeth, Mary, Katie, Frank, William, John, Bernard, Annie, Minnie and Theresa. Mr. Schmiedebusch died on September 7, 1904, his wife having passed away on October 10, 1893.

George Winkelman and his wife and children are members of the Catholic church at Glandorf. He is independent, but has never taken an active part in the political life of his community. He owns considerable real estate in this county and Michigan.

Charles Cline Cass

A successful farmer and business man of Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio,. is Charles Cline Cass, who came with his parents from Wood county, Ohio,, to Ottawa, in 1870, and has made this county his home since that year. Mr. Cass is a graduate of Wooster University, and a man of high intellectual attainments. After leaving college, he engaged in the grain and milling business for several years, farmed for a few years, and then engaged in the hardware business in the county seat. For several years he has made his home in Ottawa, while he gives his attention to his large farm in Palmer township.

'Cass, was born at Tontogany, Wood county, Ohio, November 22, 1865. His father was a native of Wayne county, Ohio, and is a son of Levi A. and Lucy (Stanford). Cass. The Cass family is descended from English ancestry, the first members of the family locating in New England in early -colonial times, and one of Mr. Cass's ancestors on his father's side, Capt. John Cass, was a member of a Massachusetts regiment in the Revolutionary War.

Catherine Cline, the mother of Charles C. Cass, was born in Wayne -county, Ohio, near West Salem, and is a daughter of Samuel and Eliza (Barr) Cline. Samuel Cline was born on January 13, 1809, in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and died in Putnam county, Ohio, October 8, 1871. Samuel Cline was a son of Conrad and Catherine (Miller) Cline and his wife, Eliza Jane Barr, was also born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, June 12, 1813. She was a daughter of John and Nancy (Davenport) Barr, and through her mother's family was related to John Randolph, of Virginia. Samuel Cline and Eliza Jane Barr were married on April 9, 1835, in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and settled in Putnam county, Ohio, in 1852, about two miles from Gilboa. Mr. Cline became a man of prominence in his community, and was director of the county infirmary for four years, assessor for one year, trustee for five years, and a member of the school board of his township for a period of fifteen years.

After George B. Cass and Catherine Cline were married, they located on a farm in Wood county, Ohio, and Mr. Cass taught school during the -winter seasons and ditched and cleared his land during his vacations. A few years after his marriage, he retired from farm life and became a telegrapher and freight agent at Tontogany, and while living there, his son, Charles Cline Cass, was born. About 1867, George B. Cass and family moved to Hebron, Indiana, where he engaged in the hardware business for about two years. He came to Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1870, engaging in the hardware business, in which line he continued until 1883. During these thirteen years in Ottawa he was very successful, and, in addition to his wellstocked store, he became the owner of about thirteen hundred acres of land, and also owned a considerable amount of property in Ottawa. George B. Cass disposed of his hardware business in 1883 and devoted all of his time and attention afterward to his extensive property interests. He was an ardent worker in the cause of temperance, and an active and earnest worker in the Presbyterian church. At various times he was trustee of his church and also served as superintendent of the Sunday school. He was a man of much more than ordinary ability and, although his work as a public-spirited

Citizen was widely recognized, he was never a seeker after office and rather avoided publicity of any kind. He was very desirous of seeing all of his children well educated and, before his death, had the satisfaction of seeing four of them graduated from one of the excellent universities of Ohio, while two others were in attendance at the university at the time of his death. Six children were born to George B. Cass and wife, Levi A., Charles C, Catherine, Ora E., R. B. and Lucy B. Levi A. is now the editor and proprietor of the Western New Yorker, of Warsaw, New York; Charles C. is the subject of this sketch; Catherine is the wife of Charles C. McMichaels, of Jackson, Michigan. She is a fine musician and has been an instructor in music ever smce she graduated from a musical college; Ora A. is the wife of W. C. Alorrey, a wheel manufacturer of Jackson, Michigan; R. B. is a newspaper publisher at Aurora, Indiana ; Lucy B. is the wife of R. G. LeBrond, who is a newspaper man and was formerly editor of the Putnam County Sentinel, and for many years he has been the political writer for the Toledo News- Bee, and now makes his home in Toledo. The father of these six children died on July 3, 1895, at the age of fifty-eight, and his widow passed away early in the summer of 1902.

Charles Cline Cass was two years of age when his parents moved from Wood county, Ohio, to Hebron, Indiana, and five years of age when they permanently located in Ottawa. After completing the course of education in his home schools in Putnam county, Mr. Cass entered Wooster University and graduated in the spring of 1888, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Three years later the university conferred upon him the degree of Master of Arts. For seven years after leaving the university, he engaged in the grain and milling business at Leipsic. After his father's death, he sold his grain and the milling business and managed his father's large estate until it was divided among the heirs, several years afterward. He then moved to his own farm in Liberty township, six miles west of Leipsic and farmed for three years. He was a large corn and wheat raiser, besides always keeping cattle, hogs and sheep on his farm. After living on his farm for three years, he moved to Ottawa, and for the next two years engaged in the hardwarebusiness. He then disposed of this business and has since devoted his time to the general management of his large farm in Palmer township. Pie was associated with the Ottawa Sugar Company in its agricultural department during the two years it operated its plant at Ottawa, afterward going with the Holland-St. Louis Sugar Company when they took over part of the best acreage written in the Ottawa territory.

of Leipsic, who was a native of that city and is a daughter of Dr. John D. and Mary (Leonard) Timmerman. Mr. Cass and his wife are the parents of five children, i-\bigail Mildred, George B., John Leonard, Ruth Marion and Charles Timmerman.

John D. Timmerman, M. D., the father of Mrs. Cass, was born March 7, 1839, at Cincinnati, and was a son of Diedrich and Catherine (Meyer) Timmerman. Doctor Timmerman and his wife were married at Cincinnati,. June 7, 1859, and settled in Putnam county, Ohio, in 1866. His wife, Mary- Leonard, was born in Cincinnati, May 11, 1842, and was a daughter of Jacob and Lydia Leonard. Doctor Timmerman was in the Sixth Regiment, Independent Ohio Cavalry, and was wounded on September 6, 1862, at Washington, North Carolina. After the close of the war, he returned to- Putnam county, and practiced medicine and surgery at Leipsic until his death, November i, igo8. His wife had passed away in January, 1897. Doctor Timmerman was a prominent and influential citizen of Leipsic, fromthe close of the Civil War until his death, and took an active part in all of the affairs of his community.

Charles C. Cass has always been an active worker in the Republican party, and, while living in Leipsic, was clerk of the village for two terms. In 1914 he was nominated by his party to represent the thirty-third Senatorial District, composed of Wood, Hancock, Fulton, Henry and Putnam counties in the state Legislature, and was elected to that seat on November 3, 1914.

Charles C. Cass and his family are earnest members of the Presbyterian' church, where he has been a ruling elder for the past twenty-five years. Mr. Cass is a member of the Masonic fraternity, is a member of the Knights- Templar and member of the consistory. He also holds his membership inthe Knights of Pythias.

assistance in defense of principles affecting the pubhc good He has aWy and conscientiously served the community of Ottovd e -d -amty a pre. dent of the Ottoville Bank Company, and m other phases of financial, com le Tcial and civic life, and has so conducted himself as to earn the unqualified endorsement and support of his fellow citizens. in Ottoville

Toseph C. Wannemacher was born on December 23, 186 m Ottov^le, Ohio He is the son of Charles and Stephania (Fournier) Wannemacher. Charies Wannemacher, the father of Joseph C. was born on January 7, X837 and came to the Umted States with his parents at the age of f ourteen - year . He had received a good common school education m hrs native vil- Le After his arrival in this country and in Ohio he gamed the key to the Sglish language by spelling out the signs on the stores and the adver^se ments displayed on fences till he slowly interpreted their meaning. At Be - fast Ohio, he learned the shoe-making trade, serving one and one-half yeais apprenticeship and later becoming a competent workman. He then jp^^^t ^ few years m Cincinnati as a journeyman and, finally, returned to Ottoville, where he engaged in business for himself for sixteen years. He kept a shoe store in 1873, and was elected county commissioner of Putnam county, serving two terms. Subsequendy, he engaged in the hardware business where he made great commercial progress, becoming one of the prominent and wealthiest citizens of Ottoville. ^ .

Charles Wannemacher was married on July 9, i860, to Fannie Fourmer, the only child of Joseph C. and Mary C. (Oberhauser) Fournier. They were natives of the Province of Lorraine, France, their daughter having been born in their native land. Upon coming to this country, they settled m Monterey township, Putnam county. Charles and Fannie (Fournier) Wannemacher, the parents of Joseph C, were stanch Catholics, both dying m the faith, the father on January 5, 1898, and the mother, August 29, 1890.

The grandfather of Joseph C. Wannemacher, who was John Wannemacher, was born in Prussia and was a locksmith by trade. He was married, in his native village, to Theresa Dierringer, and sailed with his wife and eight children to the United States from Antwerp, Belgium, March 10, 1852, in the ship "Edwina." After a voyage of forty days, they landed in New York on April 23, 1852, and came directly to Ottoville, which contained, at that time, but two buildings, one log and one frame. They settled on a small farm one and one-half miles from Ottoville, living there the remainder of their lives.

Joseph C. Wannemacher, the subject of this sketch, was one of eleven children. He received his education in the public schools of Ottoville, and attended the high school of Ottawa, Ohio, for two years. He also clerked in a dry goods store, at Ottawa, for a time, and after that taught school for two terms. During the summer of 1881, he went to work in his father's store, in Ottoville, and, in 1886, he became a partner with his father in the hardware and implement business. This partnership continued until 1898, when the father died. The business is now being managed under the firm name of Charles Wannemacher's Sons. It is the largest hardware and implement store in the county.

Joseph C. Wannemacher is now, and has been for many years, the president of the Ottoville Bank Company. The articles of incorporation for this bank were signed on September 13, 1903, by F. J. Maehlmann, John J. Miller, J. C. Wannemacher, Alphons A. Roth and F. F. Vincke for the purpose of doing a general banking business and with a capital stock of twentyfive thousand dollars. On October 24, 1903, a charter was given to the Ottoville Banking Company by the secretary of state. The bank opened for business on February i, 1904. It now has a surplus of twenty-seven thousand five hundred dollars. This bank was placed on the roll of honor in 191 1. The present officers of the bank are Joseph C. Wannemacher, president, John C. Miller, vice-president, F. J. Maehlmann, cashier, and E. Maehlmann, assistant cashier. The directors are Benedict Wannemacher, J. H. Wannemacher, J. C. Wannemacher, John J. Miller and F. J. Maehlmann.

Reverting to Mr. Wannemacher's parentage, he is the eldest of seven living children, four having died in infancy, John, the second child, lives in Ottoville. He married Katharine Barholzer, and they have two children Sophia and Alma. Mrs. John Wannemacher is deceased; Jacob F. lives in Ottoville; Stephen lives in Cloverdale; Alex lives in Ottoville and is a partner m a store with Joseph C. He married Anna Jervers and they have one daughter, Dorothy; Fanny lives in Ottoville; Charles died at the age of twenty-two years.

Schneider was born in Alsace, France, now a part of Germany. Mrs.. Schneider was born in Luxemburg. They came to the United States early in life and settled in Crawford county, Ohio. To Joseph C. and Anna- ( Schneider) Wannemacher, seven children have been born: Martin, on June 24, 1889, graduated from the law department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor; Urban F., July 18, 1891, is a tinner by trade and works in his father's store at Ottoville; Monica, June 21, 1893, graduated from the Ottoville schools and is now teaching school; Arnold, December 25, 1895, graduated from the Lima Business College and assists his father in the store: Fanny, November 19, 1897, attends the Ottoville schools; Elnora, November 28, 1899, and Margaret, June 15, 1902, are at home.

Joseph C. Wannemacher is a Democrat. He was clerk of the town of Ottoville for eighteen years and is the present mayor of the town, having taken this office in January, 1912. He was a member of the building committee for the county court house at Ottawa. Mr. Wannemacher is also vicepresident of the Ottoville school board. All of the members of the Wannemacher family are devoted to the Catholic church and are prominent and' influential in this church. Few families are better known in this part of Putnam county than that of Joseph C. Wannemacher, and few men occupy a higher place in the esteem of his fellow citizens than the subject of this sketch.

Columbus E. Dangler

The founders of the Dangler family, in America, were John and Barbara (Kaler) Dangler, natives of Germany who settled in America early during the last century. Their first home on this continent was in Union county, Pennsylvania, where Columbus E. Dangler's father was born. Later, in 1837, they came to Putnam county, Ohio, and settled in section 11, of Greensburg township, where they remained for many years. They were pioneer farmers and enterprising German citizens during the early history of Putnam county. Columbus E. Dangler, a representative of the third generation of the Dangler family, was born and reared on a farm, but early in life engaged in various pursuits. Subsequently, however, he abandoned business life for the farm and is now living on a tract of one hundred and five acres in Jackson township, which he owns.

former of whom was born about 1814, in Union county, Pennsylvania, and who, after his parents had brought him to Putnam county, Ohio, hved on the homestead farm during his early manhood. He assisted his father in the cultivation of the farm until his marriage, in 1842, to Susanna Guy She was the daughter of Jesse and Jane (Schurtz) Guy, who also came early to Putnam county, having established a home here in 1838. They came from Columbiana county, Ohio, and it was here that Susanna Guy was born.- After coming to Putnam county, they made their home in Greensburg township, where they purchased and developed a farm.

Jacob and Susanna Dangler had twelve children, Barbara, deceased John K. ; William S. ; Sarah E., who is now Mrs. Ayres; Henry J. ; Jacob G. Mary E., who is now Mrs. Ridenour; Anna N. ; Columbus E. ; George A., Lydia C, who .is now Mrs. Taylor, and Daniel E. Jacob Dangler died in 1886, on his farm in Greensburg township, and his wife died in 1904. The Guy family was of Revolutionary stock, some of Mrs. Dangler's ancestors having in the War of the Revolution fought valiantly against the British oppression.

Columbus E. Dangler was reared and educated in Greensburg township He lived the life of the average farmer's son and, at the age of twenty-one years, engaged in the saw-mill business. He also operated a portable sawmill and threshing outfit and did work for a large number of farmers in Putnam county. He was engaged in this business for eighteen years. During this period, however, Mr. Dangler devoted some time to farming He was married on March 24, 1889, to Margaret Caton, a native of Franklin county Ohio, and the daughter of Richard and Julia (Cavenaugh) Caton. Richard Caton was born in Eranklin county, Ohio, July 4, 1845, and died on August 20, 1906. His wife was born in Ireland, in County Kilkenny, August 19, 1847. She came to America with her parents at the age of eight years' Her parents were Bryan and Mary (Collins) Cavenaugh, who settled in Franklin county, Ohio, where their daughter, Julia, was reared, educated and married. Richard Caton and wife had seven children, Mrs. Margaret Dangler; James, who lives in Pleasant township; Mrs. Mary Deveau^ of Defiance, Ohio ; John, who lives in Detroit, Michigan ; Philip, who lives in Defiance; Mrs. Emma Hale, who lives in Defiance; and Theresa, deceased Mrs. Richard Caton is still living and makes her home the greater part of the time in Defiance with her children.

After Mr. Dangler's marriage, he continued to reside on the homestead farm of one hundred and sixty acres, in Greensburg township. Of this farm he owned one hundred and thirteen acres himself and farmed it for a time' but, in 1902, sold the farm and purchased one hundred and five acres, in section 17, of Jackson township. He remained on the old homestead farm, however, for two years, after buying the farm in Jackson township. For a time, he operated a brick kiln and tile-mill and also a saw-mill on the Greensburg township farm. He moved to Defiance in 1904 and there conducted a wood yard for several years. He moved back to his farm of one hundred and five acres in Jackson township in 191 2, and since that time has been actively engaged in farming it.

Columbus E. and Margaret (Caton) Dangler have had three children, Josephine, who was born on October 25, 1891 ; Alva E., February 2, 1896, and Genevieve, March 27, 1908. Josephine married John Myer and lives in Union township. He is a prominent farmer of this township; Alva E. and Genevieve are both at home.

Columbus E. Dangler is more interested in his home and his family and his farni than he is in participation of public affairs. Nominally, he is identified with the Democratic party, but he is more or less independent in his voting. The Dangler family are members of the St. Michael's Catholic church at Kalida. Mrs. Dangler is a member of the Mothers' Society. The Dangler family are people of pleasing dispositions and all are prominent in this section.

Martin Gebhardt

One of the well-known, native-born German farmers of Palmer township, Putnam county, Ohio, who was brought to this country by his parents when an infant, is Martin Gebhardt. Mr. Gebhardt has prospered in his adopted country and is a highly-respected citizen in the township where he lives. Since coming to this country, he has married, reared a large family of children and acquired a competence for his declining years. Mr. Gebhardt is one of the large farmers of this township, although a part of the land which he operates is rented. He is a good farmer, a good citizen and a good neighbor and is well liked by all the people of his community.

Martin Gebhardt was born on December 3, 1855, in Germany. He is the son of John Jacob and Margaret (Keppel) Gebhardt. Mr. Gebhardt's paternal and maternal grandparents were natives of Germany and lived and died in that country. Mr. Gebhardt's father was born in Byrne, Germany, and, before coming to this country, had followed farming, and also worked as a cloth weaver in his native country. He was married in Germany and landed in America in October, 1857. After a brief sojourn in New York city, the family went to Chicago, where they lived for three years. Leaving Chicago, they came to Defiance county, Ohio, and purchased a farm in Highland township, where they remained for some time, when he moved to Richland township. Defiance county, on a farm he had purchased of seventy-eight acres. Here he remained until his death, May 8, 1875. His wife, the mother of :\Iartin Gebhardt, died on August 16, 1912, at the age of eighty years. Their children were as follow: Martin, the subject of this sketch; John, who died m infancy ; Edward, deceased ; John, deceased ; Mrs. Margaret Surprise ; Nicholas; Mrs. Wilhelmina Lenhart, and Adolph.

Martin Gebhardt was two years of age when he came to America with his parenta. He was educated in Defiance county, principally in Highland and Richland townships. He remained on the home farm until his marriage, which took place on November 13, 1881. He was married to Ehzabeth Boehm, who was born in Richland township. Defiance county, and who is the daughter of Nicholas and Margaret Boehm. Nicholas Boehm and wife came from the same part of Germany as Mr. Gebhardt's parents. They settled in Defiance county on a farm of forty acres and remained there until their death..

After his marriage, Mr. Gebhardt rented a farm of eighty acres, in Flat Rock township, Henry county, where he lived for six years. He then moved back to the home place in Richland township and here he lived until 1894. In the fall of that year he purchased a farm of forty acres in Palmer township, Putnam county, which he later increased to eighty acres. He erected buildings and made many improvements upon the land, cleared a part of the farm which was heavily timbered, drained and fenced it. He erected a fine residence in 1907, having erected a barn in 1903.

To Martin and Elizabeth (Boehm) Gebhardt have been born eight children, Cora, on December 3, 1882; William, February 16, 1884- Minnie July 21, 1886; Ernest, March 23, 1889; Albert, January 12, 1892- Carl' January 10, 1895; Florence, July 18, 1897; and one who died in irifancy Wilham married Mrs. Elsie (Boyd) Grant and lives in Palmer township They have two children and one who died in infancy. Cora lives at home Minnie married J. J. Brown, of New Bavaria, Henry county, and has four children living and two dead. Ernest married Agnes Dirr, of Palmer township, Putnam county. The remainder of the children are at home. Mrs Martin Gebhardt died on August 25, 1900.

dred acres. Mr. Gebhardt has splendid stock and believes in handling the best breeds of horses and cattle. He has raised Herefords but is now raising Durham cattle.

Fraternally, Mr. Gebhardt is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 745, at Pleasant Bend, and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, No. 869, at Continental. Mr. Gebhardt has held the highest offices in the Rnights of Pythias and is now vice-chancellor. Politically, he is a Democrat. He is now serving his second term as township trustee, having been re-elected after serving one term. He has also served as school director and a member of the board of education. Mr. Gebhardt and family are members of the Reformed church at New Bavaria. Martin Gebhardt is popular in the community, an able farmer, industrious and prudent in all the relations of life.

John C. Haughn

Generous and loyal, interested at all items in the welfare of his community and the owner of a splendid farm in Liberty township, is John C. Haughn, who was born in Franklin county, Ohio, July 19, .1843, the son of George W. and Mary (Coonrod) Haughn, natives, respectively, of Virginia and Ohio.

George W. Haughn was born in 1812, and, when twenty-one years of age, came on foot to Ohio and located in the new county of Franklin and there engaged in farming. In that county, also, he married Mary Coonrod, the daughter of Wolrey Coonrod, who was one of the earliest settlers - when Chillicothe was still the capital of the state and Columbus unknown. From Franklin county, Mr. Coonrod enlisted for and served through the War of 1812. In the early days, religious meetings were held at his house, as were also the elections, and he himself was a politician and held many offices of honor and trust. He died in Franklin county, a Universalist in religion, in which faith the family were reared.

The parents of John C. Haughn were of German descent, and reared a family of eight children, Rachel, who was thrice married, first to her cousin, W. Haughn; secondly, to Alexander Adams, and thirdly, to John Duff, of Franklin county, who is now deceased; the second child, Margaret, married G. Ney, and resides in Illinois; the third child was John C, who is the immediate subject of this sketch; James M., the fourth child, is now deceased; Samuel J. lives in Morrow county, Ohio, near Ashley; the sixth child, Mary

John C. Haughn remained on the home place assisting his father until he reached his majority. At the age of twenty-four, in 1867, he married Nettie Taylor, who was born in Franklin county, Ohio, August 18, 1848, the daughter of Alford and Miranda Taylor, respectively, of Maryland and Pennsylvania. Alford Taylor died at the old Taylor home, February 22, 1902, at the age of eighty. Hisi widow spent her last years with J. C. Haughn and wife, and died at their home, February 26, 1907, aged eighty years, two months and twenty-six days.

To Alford and Miranda Taylor five children were born, namely : Janet, -or Nettie, the wife of John C. Haughn; Samuel, of Franklin county, Ohio; James, who died in 1891 ; Mary, the wife of Charles Reaves, a farmer, and Josephine, the wife of James Bell, also a farmer.

To John C. and Nettie (Taylor) Haughn the following children have been born: Charles E., who lives in Williams county, Ohio, married Bertha Werth, and they have two children, Ira and Mabel; Alford W., who lives in the north edge of Liberty township, married Emma Ebinger, who is now -deceased, leaving three children, Arthur, Esther and Cloice. His second wife is Anna Leinsetter, and to this marriage have been born two children, Wilmer and Myron. Isa D., the wife of Joseph Warren, a farmer living on the north side of Liberty township, and they are the parents of five living children, Alford, Nettie, Harley, Sylvia and Florence, and three who died in infancy; Leslie S. married Emma Broomgarth, and lives near Milan, Michigan. They are the parents of six children, Myrtle, Clarence, Johnny, Margaret, Orville and Ruth; Harry S. married Lillie Yenner, the daughter of John Yenner, and they have four children, Gladys, Geneva, Thelma and Wilma. They live near Medary, in Liberty township; Floyd D. married Bertha Snyder, and lives near the central part of Liberty township. They are the parents of three children. Gale, Chester and Franklin; Goldie M. is the wife of Charles Mullett, a farmer living in the south part of Liberty township, and they are the parents of seven children, of whom there are two pairs of twins, Nellie Edna, Harold, David and Barbara, twins, and also Etta and Lettie, twins ; Mary M. is the wife of Edward Neice, a farmer on the west line of Liberty township, and they have four children, Oscar, Loretta, Janetta and Bertha; Ruth A. is the wife of Arthur Sterritt, a farmer living in the east part of Liberty township, and has two children, Charley -and Farley.

until 1876, when he came to Putnam county and bought a tract of one hundred and sixty acres of forest land in Liberty township, and which still constitutes a part of his present farm. He now owns over three hundred and. eighty-five acres, all of which is in Liberty township. Here he had to fell the first trees in order to secure a seat to sit upon, and here he settled his young family and began his business life in Putnam county. He cleared away a space in the woods, built a log cabin, settled his family in this rude home, and for the first year rented some land and cultivated, but since then has devoted his attention to his own premises. To his original tract of one hundred and sixty acres, he added land from time to time until he acquired his present splendid farm. For the first three years he failed in making crops sufficiently large for his own use on account of a superabundance of surface water, but with untiring industry and good management, Mr. Haughn has succeesed in draining his land and bringing it to a high state of cultivation and productivity. He has made many extensive improvements on the place, erecting a two-story frame dwelling-house, commodious barns and substantial and convenient outbuildings, windmill orchards, etc., and has a. most desirable country home in every respect. Mr. Haughn raises a great deal of live stock for the markets, which adds not a little to his annual income, and he is regarded as one of the best farmers in the township.

John C. Haughn is a Democrat, and, as a matter of public duty, has accepted several of the minor township offices, but is far from being an officeseeker. He is a man of strictest integrity and of sterling enterprise, and it is such as he who have laid the foundation for the prosperity of Putnam county..

Sidney C. Dibble

A prosperous farmer now living in Van Buren township, Putnam county,.. Ohio, is Sidney C. Dibble, who has been a resident of this county since 1902. Born in Lucas county, Ohio, he lived there until he was grown and then moved with his parents to Henry county, Ohio, where he lived until he came to Putnam county. He has been a life-long farmer and has been unusually successful in all of his agricultural operations, and now has one of the most attractive farms in the township, and is classed among the most progressive agriculturists.

Sidney C. Dibble, the son of William E. and Martha J. (Taylor) Dibble, was born on February 27, 1861, in Waterville township, Lucas county, Ohio..

Sidney C. Dibble was reared on his father's farm, in Lucas county, until' he was eighteen years of age. He then removed with his parents to Ottawa county, and while there he worked in a stave factory for three years. Later, his parents moved to Henry county, where his father bought a farm, which was heavily timbered. Sidney C. and his brother, AA^illiam W., helped their father to clear this land and put it under cultivation. In this county Sidney C. Dibble grew to manhood, married and began to farm for himself. He and his brother bought a farm of their own in partnership in Bartlow township, Henry county, in 1887, each paying one hundred dollars as the first payment. They leased it for two years to a tenant and then Sidney lived upon it himself for one year. The brothers then traded the farm for a tract of land in Marion township, where the family had previously lived, and on this farm Sidney C. Dibble lived until 1902, at which time he sold it and bought a farm in Liberty township, Putnam county, Ohio. This farm was known as the Dan Butler farm and was located about six miles northwest of Leipsic. After living on it for about ten years, he sold it and bought a farm, of one hundred and four acres, adjoining the town of Leipsic, and here he has since resided. He built a fine country home and also has a large and commodious barn on the farm. He engages in diversified farming, and handles as much stock as he can feed on his own farm.

Sidney C. Dibble was married in 1885 to Louisa Delanoy, who was born in Marion township, Henry county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Peter and Keziah (Clark) Delanoy. Her father was born in Schenectady, New York, near the Catskill mountains, and was a cooper by trade, although, after his marriage, he went to farming. Peter Delanoy and his wife moved to Henrycounty, Ohio, in 1861, and in 1864 Mr. Delanoy enlisted in the Civil War,- but was taken down with typhoid fever and discharged on account of disability. After returning from the war, he farmed the rest of his life in Henry county, where his death occurred about fifteen years ago, his wife passing away about four years later. Keziah Clark, the wife of Mr. Delanoy, was born at Peterborough, England, and was a daughter of William Clark and wife. She came to America at the age of sixteen with her parents and located in Huron county, Ohio, where she was living when she married Mr. Delanoy.

Sidney C. and Louisa (Delanoy) Dibble have one son, Ray M., who was born in 1892. They are justly proud of the record which their son has made. After graduating from the Leipsic high school, he entered Ohio State Uni- versity and graduated in the agricultural course in 1914, with the degree of Bachelor of Science. While in college, he took part in the various activities -of college life in addition to his regular college work. He was secretary of the Commons Club, and was a member of the Methodist students' council. ' He won second prize, in 1912, in the individual drill in the cadets, an organization which includes a thousand students. While in the university, he joined the Students Volunteer Band, each member of which is pledged to do foreign missionary work if God permits. He was also active in the teaching of foreigners the use of English and arithmetic. He also taught colored boys, at the mission school in Columbus, and had charge of the games room. He was interested in social service work and took an active part in everything which pertained to the uplift of those less fortunate in life. Ray is of a decided literary turn of mind and has written cjuite a number of contributed articles for the home papers. He was formerly exchange editor of the Ohio State Weekly, at Columbus, but upon entering Ada Normal University, in the fall of 1914, he surrendered this position. He is now taking a course in public speaking at Ada with the intention of entering professional life.

Sidney C. Dibble and his family are all loyal members and active workers in the Methodist Episcopal church. Mrs. Dibble is a woman of education and refinement, and after attending the high school at Leipsic, taught school for three years in Putnam county. Mr. Dibble is a member of the Patrons Husbandry at Leipsic.

Henry W. Ruhe

Among the distinguished citizens of Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio, is Henry W Ruhe, who is a son 9f one of the earliest pioneers of Putnam county.

Henry W. Ruhe was born in section 32, south of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1849, the son of Gerhardt Joseph and Mary Anna (Musing) Ruhe. Gerhardt Joseph Ruhe was born in Saarbeck, Germany, November 2, 1812, and died at the age of sixty-six years, December 29-, 1878, on his farm south of Glandorf. He came to America in 1833 or 1834, but was married in the old country to Mary Anna Musing, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Musing. Upon coming to America, he located at once on his farm in Ottawa township, which he entered from the government. There were hordes of Indians in Putnam county at that time, and no roads had been built. In the beginning, Mr. Ruhe worked on the canal in the spring and summer and the women at home did the planting, using hoe, spade or shovel, instead of the plow. The rich soil produced abundantly. In winter, they worked at clearing the timber from the land. Mr. Ruhe entered eighty acres, and later bought another eighty, and spent his entire life on this farm. There were twelve children in the family, of whom six grew to maturity: Bai'ney; Mrs. Theresa Hinker; Mrs. Josephine, Knueve, deceased; Henry William; Mrs. -Catherine Wortkoetter and Anthony B. The father of these children died on December 29, 1878, and the mother died on August 29, 1896.

Henry W. Ruhe was married to Barbara Koening, February 7, 1877. She was born in Liberty township, Putnam county, the daughter of Charles and Matilda (Kastel) Koening. Her parents came from Bavaria, and were early settlers where she was born. Eight children were born to Mr. Ruhe's first marriage, Joseph, who lives in Pleasant township, married Veronica Ricker, and they have five children, Clara, George, William, Albert and Paul ; Mary Anna is the wife of Henry Klemen and lives north of Ottawa, in Ottawa township ; Henry, a farmer of Monroe township, near Continental, married Hannah Bensman, and they have three children, Alex, Marcella and Henry; John unmarried, lives in Missouri; Charles, a farmer of Pleasant township, married Emma Ricker, and lives in Pleasant township, and they have one son, Rudolph; Josephine, the wife of Joseph Klemen, a farmer of Pleasant township, has three children, Peter, Alexander and Sylvester; Theresa is the wife of John Segar, a farmer of Pleasant township; Rosa, unmarried, lives at home. The mother of these children died on June 4, 1897, at the age of thirty-nine years and nine months.

Henry W. Ruhe was married, the second time, on June 20, 1898, to Mrs. Mary Anna (Fredericks) Fortman. She was born in Prussia, Hanover, Germany, a daughter of Bernard Henry Fredericks and wife. She came to America with her parents about 1874, and settled near Zanesville, Ohio, near Junction City, where she married Henry Felt. He died, leaving one son, Benny, now also deceased, his death occurring when he was fifteen years of age. Mrs. Felt afterward moved to Columbus Grove, and there married Henry Fortman, who was working for the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railway Company. They moved to Ottawa and lived in that city until Mr. Fortman' s death, on December 18, 1886. There were two children born to this second marriage, Maria Anna, the wife of Isaac McDowell, who lives at Continental, and a son, who died in early infancy.

Henry W. Ruhe still lives on the same farm where he was born and where he grew to manhood. His farm has never been owned by anyone but his father and himself since the Indians gave way to the white men. The

Ruhe family has cleared this land and has made a farm and home here, of which they are proud. They are well-known and highly respected in 'the community where they have lived so long.

The entire family are devoted members of the Catholic church at Glandorf. Mr. Ruhe's father helped to build the first log cabin church at Glandorf, where the first altar was erected by the pioneers in the wilderness. He also helped to build the second edifice and the third one, and his earthly life ended while he was in the church.

There are very few families who have contributed more to make Putnam county the rich agricultural section it is now, than that of the Ruhe family.

Frank F. Droll

The following is a brief sketch of the life of one, who, by close attention to business, has achieved marked success in the agricultural affairs of Perry township, Putnam county, Ohio. His career is a plain record rendered remarkable by no strange or mysterious adventure, no wonderful and lucky accident and no tragic situation. Frank F. Droll is one of those estimable characters whose integrity and strong personality have gained for them meritorious recognition which their modesty does not seek. He commands the respect of the people of Perry township, and has left his mark upon the generation in which he' is now living.

George, Jr., and Catherine (Brown) Droll were the parents of twelve children, Joseph is deceased; Mrs. Mary Brickner died in 1914; John lives on the homestead farm in Seneca county ; Catherine was the fourth child ; Mrs. Rosa Lichtle lives in Seneca county; Matilda is deceased; Frank F. is the subject of this sketch; William lives in Seneca county; Killian lives in Perry township, Putnam county; Edward lives in the West; Mrs. Anna Brant lives in Seneca county, and Mrs. Maggie Brant in Lorrain, Ohio. George Droll, Jr., was an ardent Democrat, and a member of the Catholic church at New Riegel. His vvife, also, was a member of this church.

Frank F. Droll spent his boyhood days on the homestead farm in Seneca county, Ohio. He was educated there and reared as a farmer. He left home at the age of twenty-one years and worked out for a time. He came to Putnam county in April, 1896,, and for a time lived with a brother, Killian, they having purchased a farm of eighty acres together, in Perry township, where Frank F now lives. Later, Killian sold his half interest to Frank F. Droll. After Mr. Droll married, he farmed the entire eighty acres. There was much timber on the farm when he bought the land. Mr. Droll did most of the clearing, fencing and ditching. Since purchasing the farm he has built a fine residence and a large, commodious barn, the latter erected July, 1909, is thirty-six by sixty-six feet. He owns a splendid home and the farm is neatly kept, which shows the fine progressive spirit of its owner. Mr. Droll is a hard worker and his success must be attributed to his unconquerable perseverance from the beginning. With the help of his faithful wife, he has gained a rather large competence, and has been entirely victorious in his struggle for success.

Frank F. Droll was married on November 18, 1896, to Matilda Shirack, who was born on August 27, 1870, in Van Wert county, Ohio. She is the daughter of John and. Catherine (Schuhen) Shirack, both of whom were natives of Germany, the former born June 24, 1840, and the latter on August 25, 1845. Both came to America with their parents when quite young, who settled in Seneca county, Ohio, where they farmed till their death. John Shirack grew up in Seneca county, Ohio, and was reared as a farmer and it was here that he received his education. Subsequently, he came to Van Wert county, where he passed the remainder of his days. He died on June 13, 191 1, at the age of seventy years, eleven months and twenty days. He was a Democrat, and a member of the Catholic church at Ottoville, Ohio. His wife was also a member of that church. She died on December 19, 1906, at the age of sixty-one years and three months. They had nine children, John; Mrs. Mary Grubenhoff, of Ottoville, Monterey township, Putnam county; Mrs. Catherine Eickholt, of Monterey township, Putnam county;. Mrs. Franl< F. Droll ; Mrs. Anna Kehres, of Delphos ; Mrs. Emma Sheibley, of Cloverdale; Mrs. Margaret Wannamacker, of Cloverdale; Joseph, of Delphos, and one who died in infancy.

To Frank F. and Matilda (Shirack) Droll eight children have been born: Raymond, on February 20, 1898; Edith, September i, 1899; Eva, November 9, 1900; Alvira, March 16, 1903; Wilfred, October 27, 1905; Joseph, November 15, 1907; Mary, December 27, 1909, and Gertrude, November 9, 1912. All of these children are living at home.

Frank F Droll is not a member of any lodge, and he has never aspired to office. He is a member of St. Barbara's Catholic church at Cloverdale, Ohio, as well as his wife and family. Frank F. Droll is a congenial man, easy-going in his manner, and sociable. He is a man of strong domestic habits, a home lover, a fine husband and father and a good provider. He bears a high reputation in the community where he lives.

John H. Kleman

It is a pleasure to the biographer to record the lives of prosperous men, men who have honored their community and who are loved by their fellow men. They inspire the coming generation, as well as the present, and justly deserved mention in such a work as this. One of the most influential citizens of Ottawa township, Putnam county, Ohio, is John H. Kleman.

John H. Kleman was born on March 28, 1852, on the farm where he now lives in the southwestern part of Ottawa township. He is the son of Andrew and ]\Iary C. (Gerdeman) Kleman. Andrew Kleman was born in Prussia in 1805, and was a trained soldier under the grandfather of the present German kaiser. He came to America about 1835 ^^'^ located near, or at, Glandorf, Putnam county, when Indians were still in the vicinity. He was a farmer. Here he married Mary C. (Gerdeman) Utendorf, the widow of Joseph Utendorf, deceased. She was born in Hanover, Germany, in 181 1, and came to America and spent her first winter at Toledo, at the time the first railroad reached that city. She then came to Glandorf and married Joseph Utendorf and they lived on the farm where John H. now lives until Mr. Utendorf's death. There were two children by her first marriage, Joseph and Mary Ann, the former dying in 1885. Mary Ann was the wife of J. W. Ellerbrock and died at Glandorf in 1912. After Mr. Utendorf died she and

Mr. Kleman married and spent the rest of their lives on the farm which she owned. Here she died in 1882, her husband dying in 1859, leaving her with a family of children. She had seven by her second marriage, of whom three died before her husband. She and her children remained on the farm as long as she lived.

John H. Kleman was married to Mary Hueve in 1873. She was born northwest of Glandorf, the daughter of Joseph and Lisette (Claforn) Hueve. Her father was born in Prussia and came to America about 1840, at the age of sixteen, with his parents, Herman and Elizabeth Hueve. They located northwest of Glandorf when the country was still new.

Lisette Claforn was born in Hanover, Germany, and at the age of three was brought to America with her parents, who located southwest of Ottawa. Joseph Hueve and wife located in section 3 of Pleasant township, when Mrs. Kleman was about three years old. They located in the midst of the woods, as did the other pioneers and there spent the rest of their lives. Mrs. Hueve died in 1893 and her husband in May, 1899. They had a large family, of whom three died in infancy and three grew to maturity.

After John H. Kleman married, he continued farming where he now lives. He has served twice as land appraiser, in 1900, and again in 1910, and was trustee of Ottawa township from 1882 to 1887. Mr. Kleman has added to his original land holdings, as he was able, and now owns three hundred and ten acres. He has rebuilt his barns and houses and is a wellknown and influential citizen.

John H. and Mary (Hueve) Kleman are the parents of ten children, Anna M., Joseph, Elizabeth M,, Frank J., Veronica K., John, Lewis H.,. Carolina C, Albert L. and Adolph H. Anna M. was born on October 5, 1874, married Frank Smith. They live near Bryant, Indiana, and have seven children. Joseph G., March 8, 1876, married Lizzie Meyer. They live three miles northeast of Miller City and have four children; Elizabeth M., April 2, 1879, married John Liebrecht, and lives two miles south of Kalida. They have four children; Frank J., May 30, 1881, married November 17, 1914, to Anna Shekelhoff. They live one mile south of his father's farm; Veronica K., August 5, 1882, married to Joseph Reitz. They live at Oberlin, Ohio, have four children living; John, February 27, 1885, is still single, hving at Toledo, Ohio; Lewis H., July 23, 1887, was married June 10, 1914, to Elizabeth Kreinbrink. They live just across the road from his father ; Caroline C, January 2, J890; Albert L., February 14, 1892; and Adolph H., November 13, 1895, all still resides at home.

at Glandorf. He also belongs to the Holy Name society and the St. Joseph society. Mr. Kleman is broad-minded, hospitable, sociable and patriotic, a worthy son of Andrew Kleman, who was a king's guard in the old country and, in 1842, upon coming to America, was appointed captain of the home guards of Ohio and was always known as Captain Kleman.

William Schlagbaum

There are many enterprises which bring almost immediate success, but few of such successes are lasting. It is not so with the farming enterprise, however. Prosperity comes, if it comes at all, after long years of labor, and after an almost desperate struggle against the elements and unforeseen backsets. The German farmers have taken hold of these difficulties with great zeal, and many of them are now the leading agriculturists of Putnam county, Ohio. The Schlagbaum family have always been highly respected in Putnam county. William Schlagbaum, especially, has been a successful farmer, and he is a man who, because of his enterprising habits, and his worthy ideals, is entitled to representation in a volume which undertakes to set forth the biographical history of Putnam county's representative citizens.

William Schlagbaum was bom on July 17, 1863, in Monterey township, Putnam county, Ohio. Pie is a son of George and Dorothy (Hille) Schlagbaum. George Schlagbaum was born in Prussia, and came to the United States when he was about twenty years old. He lived in Cincinnati for six years and was married in that city. His wife was a native of Germany, who came to the United States when about fifteen years old. George Schlagbaum and wife were the parents of ten children, five of whom lived to maturity, and four are now living: Barney, a resident of Monterey township in this county; Lucy, the wife of Frank W. Helmkamp, whose life story is told elsewhere in this volume; Mary, the wife of Fred Vincke, of Ottoville, Ohio; Anna, deceased, was the wife Nicholas Bedink, of Ottoville; William, with whom this narrative deals.

George and Dorothy (Hille) Schlagbaum moved to Putnam county, about 1855, and settled on the farm one-half mile east of Ottoville. The country was covered with timber in those days and when they came to Putnam county, they came by boat through the canal, and from it moved their furniture to the spot where they built their home in the wilderness. The furniture was hauled in a wheelbarrow. The land was cleared and carefully

William Schlagbaum received a common-school education. He operated his father's farm from 1884 until 1895. He was married on May 21, 1895, to Lucy Kehres, a daughter of August and Lucy (Marks) Kehres, both natives of Germany, who came to the United States with their parents when small children. August and Lucy (Marks) Kehres were the parents of five children, two of whom died in infancy, while three are still living, Henry, of Delphos, Ohio, where he is filling the office of chief of police of that city; Lucy, the wife of Mr. Schlagbaum, and Anna, the wife of Gerhard Utrup! lives in Monterey township. Mrs. Lucy Kehres died in 1889, and her husband, subsequently, married Anna Dunst, and to this second marriage four children were born: Cillia, the wife of Matthias Vondran, of Oklahoma; Lewis died at the age of twenty-one; 'Frances, the wife of Roy Rueb, of Oklahoma, and Walter, also living in Oklahoma. August Kehres and' his second wife now live in Oklahoma.

To William and Anna (Dunst) Schlagbaum, nine children have been born. Two died in infancy and seven are still living, Alberta is attending school and will graduate in the spring of 191 5; Ida, Alphonse, Martha, Walter, Ag-nes and George, all of whom are either at home or attending school, are the remaining children.

William Schlagbaum owns the old homestead farm of one hundred and twenty-four acres. It lies east of Ottoville, and adjoins the corporation line. Mr. Schlagbaum is a farmer and makes a specialty of high-grade stock. He has as good a farm as can be found in Putnam county. The farm is welldrained and well-improved in every respect. He has a modern house and barn. Mr. Schlagbaum has added all of these improvements himself.

William Schlagbaum is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Knights of Ohio. He and his wife are devout members of the Catholic church at Ottoville. Mr. Schlagbaum is a Democrat. He was elected a member of the board of county commissioners in 1914 and is now discharging the duties of this office in a manner which reflects credit upon the people who elected him and upon Mr. Schlagbaum himself. Previously he served his township as trustee for two terms. He is a member of the school board and is serving his third term. Mr. Schlagbaum before this served as a member of the Putnam county fair board for two' terms and resigned just after having been elected a member of the board of county commissioners Some years ago he was a director in the bank at Ottoville, but is no lon-er 66 '^ active in banking affairs. William Schlagbaum is a representative farmer and a highly respected citizen of Putnam county. He is a man possessed of an exceptionally keen mind and is genial in his manner, v^^ell liked by hisneighbors and possessed of the confidence of all v^rith whom he has come in contact.

Homer William Pierman

Born of good old Virginia stock at a time when the conditions of livingin Putnam county were far from being as pleasant as they are now, and growing up to vigorous manhood under the careful teachings of parents who had been inured to the privations and hardships of pioneer life, H. W. Pierman, one of the best known farmers in Putnam county, Ohio, reasonably may look back over his life of painstaking effort with no small degree of complacency and with a feeling that things have, after all, turned out very pleasantly for him.

Homer William Pierman was born on March 31, 1873, in the house in which he now lives, on the farm his parents wrested from the wilderness and. where he has lived all his life. He is the son of Samuel and Margaret (Clark) Pierman, who were among the most highly regarded pioneer residents, of Putnam county, the former of whom was a native of Virginia and the latter a native of Putnam county, her birth having occurred in Ottawa township, October 22, 1837, the daughter of James and Elizabeth (Battlefield) Clark, who came to Putnam county in 1833, and who lived just east of where the county fair grounds are now located.

Samuel Pierman, further mention of whose life in this county is contained in the biographical sketch of Charles O. Pierman, found elsewhere in this volume, was, in his day, one of the most influential men in the county. He was born in Virginia, on June 24, 1827, the son of James and Poll}r (Agner) Pierman, who at that time lived about ten miles from the natural' bridge of Virginia, one of America's most notable natural wonders, a scenicmarvel which annually attracts thousands of visitors. James Pierman was. a solcher in the War of 1812, a member of one of the old families of Virginia and a man of remarkable vigor and courage, of the true pioneer breed. When Samuel Pierman was quite a small boy, his parents moved from Virginia to Putnam county, Ohio, settling about three miles from Ottawa, just west of the mouth of Riley creek. They lived at that point for about ten years, at the end of which time they moved into the northwestern part of

Pleasant township, where they spent the remainder of their hves and where they did very much toward the development along all lines of the new community. They brought to the wilderness practical knowledge and experience which their^ widely-scattered neighbors soon learned to rely on, and it is undoubted that their influence in that community did very much toward bringing about proper conditions of social and economic life in the formative period of the now prosperous and established farming region. James Pierman and the woman who was ever at his side, a true pioneer helpmeet, long have lain in the neighborhood burying-ground, resting well after the stern labors which their hands found to do, and the fourth generation of their descendants in that community finds conditions immeasurably easier for their having striven - "blazing the ways."

Samuel Pierman grew up amid the hardships of a pioneer life and, when the gold fever broke out in 1849, decided to join the throng of new Argonauts in the stampede to California. Going by rail as far as St. Joseph, Missouri, which was the terminus of western railway travel in that day, he walked the rest of the way across the continent. Conditions in California not being what he had expected he gave up the quest for gold, after about three years of prospecting, and returned to Putnam county. Though he did not "strike it rich" in the gold field, he did not come back entirely emptyhanded, and upon his return was able to purchase a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Ottawa township. To this he gradually made additions, as his "clearings" grew, until at the time of his death he was the owner of three hundred and thirty-six acres of fine land in the county. He was an active influence for good in his neighborhood and he and his wife were ever leaders in the good works of community, being regarded with the highest respect by all who knew them. His death occurred on January 7, 1904, his wife having preceded him to the grave on March 12, 1883. Mrs. Pierman had been twice married, she having been the Widow Merritt when Mr. Pierman married her on June 26, i860. To Samuel and Margaret (Clark) Pierman nine children were born, all of whom survived their parents.

Homer William Pierman, son of the above, was united in marriage on April 4, 1901, to Miss Nora Agner, who was born on May 26, 1881, on her father's farm in Ottawa township, not far from where she now lives, the daughter of James M. and Sarah (Crow) Agner, prominent residents of that community. To this union five children have been born, Gladys, on January 4, 1902; Glenn, July 13, 1903; Marcine, January 15, 1908; Corwin, December 25, 1912, and Idona-Dorine, April 23, .1915, a lively set of youngsters who are the continual delight of their devoted parents.

Since his marriage, H. W. Pierman has managed the old home farm, which he is constantly improving and which he has brought to a high state of cultivation. This part of the old home farm consists of one hundred and forty-five acres and includes the homestead where H. W. was born, a good brick house, a fine bank barn and other improvements in accord with the surroundings.

H. W. Pierman is a Democrat and though taking an intelligent interest in local politics, the part of all good citizens, has not included himself anjong the active campaigners or put himself in the office-seeking class, preferring to give such time as he has to the development of his extensive farming interests. H. W. Pierman and wife are members of the Riley Creek Methodist Protestant church and are active participants in the various good works of that organization as well as giving their personal interest to all movements having as their object the advancement of the commonwealth. Good, substantial citizens, they are very properly regarded as among the leading families of that part of the county.

Fred Michel, Jr

The whole world over, men are striving for homes and the substantial comforts of life. The greater their desire for home and the comforts which go with the home, the greater their zeal, and the more persistent their labor. The pioneers of this country who have been successful in acquiring homes and the comforts surrounding the homes, have richly deserved the blessing. It is with pride that the biographer of Putnam county, Ohio, can point to the careers of Fred Michel, Jr., and wife, who have struggled, side by side, and who are now enjoying the fruits of their early labors.

Fred Michel, Jr., was born southeast of Ottawa, July 15, 1844. He is a son of Fred Michel, Sr., and Ursula (Betts) Michel, both of whom are natives of Bairn Menhoff, Germany. Fred Michel, Sr., came to the United States when a young man, arriving near Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, in 1840. He engaged in farming and here married Ursula Betts.

M^hen Fred Michel, Jr., was ten years of age, his parents purchased forty acres of land near the north line of Pleasant township, south of Glandorf. This land was heavily wooded at the time. The father died when Fred, Jr., was twelve years old,- leaving four sons, Fred, Anton, Theodore and John. The widow and sons remained on the farm until the boys had reached maturity. The other three sons settling in Glandorf.

Fred Michel, Jr., was married on January 26, 1872, to Mary Neuveman. Mary Neuveman was born in Glandorf, Germany, in 1847, ^"d is a daughter of Frederick and Katherine (Hoffman) Neuveman. She grew up in her native land, remaining there until 1871, when, with two other sisters and one brother, they came to the United States, locating at Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio. Her father died in 1873, and, about 1877 her mother and two other sisters and a brother, August, also came to this county, and located at Glandorf, leaving only one child in Germany. After coming here, the mother married Joseph Becker, an expert shoemaker of Glandorf. Mr. Becker died at Glandorf, and Mrs. Michel's mother spent the last three years of her life with her son, August, who lives north of New Cleveland. Her death occurred in 1892.

After Mr. Michel's marriage, he farmed in Pleasant township, and lived there until April i, 1889, when he and his wife moved to the farm they now occupy southeast of Ottawa, in section 36. They began with forty acres of rough land, which was uncleared and naturally not very fertile. Fred Michel and wife both worked with intense zeal to pay for their little home. They worked at night clearing away the brush and burning it. The land was wet and swampy and people told them that they would starve to death, but the young couple replied that they would take care of that, and, despite discouragements, they worked with a will, Mrs. Michel helping her husband loyally. They not only did not starve, but they prospered, and, finally, came to own two hundred acres of land. They have sold eighty acres of this to a son, and have one hundred and twenty acres remaining.

Fred and Mary (Neuveman) Michel, Jr., are the parents of eight children, five sons and three daughters, Mary, the wife of Frank Ricker, of Anaheim, California, has eight children; Caroline, the wife of Barney Ricker, living on the Kalida pike, in Union township, and they have ten children, Charles, farming eighty acres which he purchased from his parents, married Anna Heuerman, and they have three children ; John, of Dayton, married Cora Lenhart, and they have one daughter, Marguerite; Agnes, the wife of Harry Noland, of Cincinnati, has five children; Joseph, living at home; August, married Selina Berger and lives in California; Louis, also a resident of Anaheim, California.

Fred Michel and wife, and all their large family are devout members of the Catholic church, and contribute liberally to the support of that church. Mr. Michel is a man of friendly, kindly disposition, and Mrs. Michel is not less so, being affable and agreeable and today is proud of the hard struggle she and her husband had to acquire the splendid competence which they now enjoy. Not long ago they took a trip to California, to visit their children there, and enjoyed the trip immensely. They are substantial citizens of Putnam county, Ohio, and well deserve the high esteem in which they are held.

John Kohls, Jr

There is no positive rule for achieving success and yet, in the life of a successful man, there are always lessons which might well be followed. The man who wins success is he who can see and utilize the opportunities that come in his path. The essential conditions of human life are ever the same, the surroundings of individuals differing but slightly. When one man passes another on the highway of life to reach his goal before others who perhaps started out before him, it is because he has the power to use the advantages which probably fall within purview of the whole human race. Today among the prominent citizens and successful farmers of Putnam - county is John Kohls, Jr., of Ottawa township. The qualities of keen discrimination, sound judgment and executive ability enter very largely into his makeup and have been contributing elements to the material success which has come to him.

John Kohls, Jr., was born on December 21, 1862, on the farm where he now lives, southeast of Ottawa, on the Pandora road. He is the son of John, Sr., and Alargaret (Hessling) Kohls. John Kohls, Sr., was born on August 29, 1832, in Pittsburgh and was the son of Henry Kohls. Henry Kohls w^as born in the town of Oldenburg in the grand duchy of the same name in Germany, in 179 1, and spent his boyhood days on a farm. He married Sophia Kottonbrock in 1824, who was born in the same village in 1795. They came to America in 1832 and spent one year at Pittsburgh and one year in Cincinnati. In the fall of 1835 they came to Glandorf and purchased a tract of uncleared land and hopefully set to work to clear their farm. Here they established their home and reared a family of seven children. Henry Kohls prospered and accumulated considerable property. He had begun with nothing, but at the time of his death, in 1876, he^left a considerable estate to his children. His wife survived him six years. Both were members of the Glandorf Catholic church.

John Kohls, Sr., came to this country with his parents when a child and grew up at the south edge of Glandorf, where the depot is now situated. He lived here until married. He was married to Margaret Hessling, who was born in Glandorf, Putnam county, and was the daughter of Henry Hesshng and his first wife. After John Kohls, Sr., married he moved to a farm southeast of Ottawa along the south side of the Blanchard river. The farm comprised fifty-seven and one-half acres and this he bought from his father, Henry ICohls. Several years later he bought forty-eight acres from a Mr. Hollister and then purchased the Homer Sackett farm of eighty acres, along the south side of the township line. Next he bought the Krieger farm of forty-five acres, and, later, bought one hundred and three acres in the southwest corner of Liberty township. He lived on this farm, where he first settled, until his death, at the age of about seventy-nine years. There were five children in his family, four boys and one girl, Henry, John, Jr., Bernard A., William, deceased, and Catherine. As they grew up and married, he gave each son a farm and his daughter the equivalent in money. John Kohls, Sr., was engaged in the live stock business for many years. He was in partnership with several different men, first with his brother, William, and later, he did purchasing for Jordan, McDowell and others and did a big business. He died on September i, 191 1, the second day after his seventy-ninth birthday. His wife died on January 20, 1868, at the age of thirty-two, when John Kohls, Jr., was only five years old.

John Kohls, Jr., grew up on the farm southeast of Ottawa and here performed the usual tasks which fell to the lot of the country boy. On November 16, 1887, Mr. Kohls was married to Maria Rose Hohenbrink. She is the daughter of Matthias and Theresa (Huester) Hohenbrink.

Matthias Hohenbrink was born in Hanover, Germany, July 25, 1817. He lived in Germany until twenty-two years of age and then came to America and lived, in Cincinnati about two months, when he came to Glandorf, Putnam county, where he worked out by the month. He worked on the canal, beginning at Delphos, working in both directions. In this way he made the money with which to buy eighty acres, about one and one-half miles northeast of Glandorf, where his family now lives. This farm was purchased before 1850, and was all a wild woods at the time, none of it having been cleared. He built a little cabin, ten by twelve feet, with a chimney of sticks and mud and had no regular windows. It was so dark that he had to open the door to get enough light. Here he "bached" for one year, when he married Katherine Halker, an aunt of J. W. Halker and a sister of William Halker, Sr. After they married, she died in a few years, leaving four children, Katherine, the wife of Conrad Wyant, and who lived near New Cleveland until her death; Mary, the wife of Ed Maag, of Pleasant township; Theresa, deceased, who was the wife of John Beckman, and John W., who lives at the west edge of Liberty township near Miller City.

In 1861, Mr. Hohenbrink married Theresa Huster. She was born in Greensburg township in 1840, and is the daughter of Henry and Katherina EHzabeth (Gaetker) Huster. Henry Huster came from Glandorf, in Hanover, Germany, and was an early settler in Greensburg township, having come in 1836. He was married in Glandorf, Germany, to Elizabeth Gaetker and lived in Greensburg township until 1864, when he moved to Shelby county, Ohio, and died there in 1867. His wife died in 1854. After Matthias Hohenbrink married, he spent the remainder of his life on the farm where he first started north of Glandorf. He bought more land and owned over two hundred acres in Ottawa township and more in Liberty township. This land is still in possession of the family. Seven children were born to the second marriage, Anna, who is the wife of David Bockrath, of Greensburg township, and has five children; Henry, who lives on the home place with his mother; Mary Rosa, the wife of John Kohls, Jr.; William, who died at the age of five years; Helena, who is at home with her mother; Fred J., who married Theresa Morman, lives in the northwestern part of Ottawa township and has five children; Matt B., who lives at home and operates the farm. The family are members of the Catholic church. Mr. Hohenbrink died on July 9, 1892. He did not seek office but, nevertheless, served as school director. His main interest, however, was his farming. He was a good farmer and a self-made man, who came to a new country with nothing but his strength, character and energy. He became well known and respected by all the people of this vicinity.

Theresa Huester was the second wife of Matthias Hohenbrink. She was born in Greensburg township and lived there until her marriage. She now lives northeast of Glandorf. Mrs. Kohls was born on her father's farm near Glandorf and lived there until her marriage.