Putnam County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1915 (part 31 of 33)

Henry J. Unterbrink

A brief resume of the life work of the gentleman whose name appears above cannot give an adequate description of the hardships he has passed through to gain for himself the title of "successful man," but Henry J. Unterbrink has been pointed out by his fellow men as one worthy of praise for his accomplishments, one who has been loyal to the trusts reposed in him, always upright and fair in his dealings with everyone, at the same time lending his support to the advancement of any cause looking to the welfare of the community at large.

Henry J. Unterbrink was born on September 12, 1862, in the town of Glandorf, Germany, and was the son of William and Elizabeth (Hohenbrink) Unterbrink. The father and mother were natives of Germany and both were born and raised in the town of Glandorf. When Henry J. Unterbrink was four years of age, the parents decided to leave the old country,, and after their arrival in America, settled on a forty-acre farm in Greensburg township, near the town of Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio. This, farm was thickly wooded and required a great deal of clearing, so it was. that these thrifty settlers set about their task to make a success of the place as a farm and home. The timber was cut and the land drained, a house for themselves was erected from the logs obtained from the clearing, and today Henry J. Unterbrink can show two of the logs that went to make up a part of the homestead. William Unterbrink and wife lived on this place for some years, then moved to Peasant township, where they obtained a fifty-twoacre farm that was about one-half cleared. On this land they erected a log house and barn, cleared a portion of the timber and set about to do general farming. The old folks conducted this farm until the death of the father,. April 24, 1894, at which time he was sixty-six years of age. The mother survived him until February 7, 1903, at the age of seventy-two. She was a hard-working, kind and loving m.other, who took great pride in her family, and much credit must be accorded to her for the part she took in the early days assisting her husband. Seven children were born to William and Elizabeth (Hohenbrink) Unterbrink, William, Caroline, Henry, Grace, Joseph and Frank, besides an infant, who died in Germany. Of these, Caroline is now the wife of Joseph Maag and resides in Pleasant township, and Grace married Henry Uphaus, who is a resident of Jackson, Tennesseee.

On May 30, 1880, Henry J. Unterbrink was married to Catherine Uphaus, daughter of Barney and Bernadina (Frey) Uphaus, the former a native of Glandorf, born on February 2, 1837, who conducted a farm in Ottawa township for many years. He died, February 2, 1907, in his seventieth year, and was buried at Ottawa. The latter was a native of Louisville, Kentucky, and is at this time living with Barney Uphaus, a brother of Mr. Unterbrink's wife, who is located on a farm in Ottawa township. To Barney and Bernadina (Frey) Uphaus were born ten children, William,, who died at the age of two years; Caroline and Henry (twins) ; Elizabeth, who is now Mrs. Joseph M. Rhinehart, of Seneca county; Barney; Mary, who married Sager and resides in Portageville, Missouri ; Philomena ; Amelia, who died at the- age of twenty; Bernadina, who is now R/[rs. Edward Feltman, also an unnamed infant.

Henry J. Unterbrink remained on his father's farm during his youth, received his education in the township schools, and at a later date, purchased the homestead farm from his father. Having made a satisfactory settlement with the other heirs to the place by paying for their interests, he proceeded to make the improvements which are to be seen today and which mark the place as a strictly up-to-date and well-managed farm. Many new buildings have been erected, special attention having been given to a large T-shaped barn which is modern in every respect. In addition to generaf farming, considerable effort is directed toward the raising of good live stock. To Henry J. and Catherine (Uphaus) Unterbrink were born three children, Edward, who died in infancy; Amelia and Philomena, who reside with the parents.

Personally, Mr. Unterbrink enjoys the esteem and good will of everyone in his community, where he is known to -be a man possessed of a true spirit of congeniality, sincerity, and one who is ever ready to lend a helping hand to his less fortunate fellow men. He is a mmeber of the Democratic party, though not particularly active in these matters; however, he has held office as township supervisor and a director of the school board. He is an active and devout member of the Catholic church in Ottawa, where the other members of the family are regular communicants.

John C. Jones

A life-long resident of Putnam county, Ohio, J. C. Jones has lived such a life as to bring his name prominently before the public. As a county official and as a private citizen he is painstaking and conscientious in whatever he does. As the cashier of the First National Bank of Ottawa he has served this bank for the past decade with a faithfulness and conscientious devotion to duty which has been highly pleasing, both to the directors of the bank and to the pubHc at large.

J. C. Jones, the son and youngest of nine children, born to Cadwalader and Ann (Rees) Jones, was born in Sugar Creek township, Putnam comity, Ohio, on November 3, 1863. His parents were born and reared in Montgomeryshire, North Wales.

Cadwalader Jones came to America in 1831, and was married at North Bend, Ohio, October 7, 1846. A short time afterward they, located in Putnam county, where they made their home the remainder of their lives. Cadwalader Jones was a man of much intelligence and imbued with sound prinsiples. He had an excellent education and taught in the rural schools for many years, in which community he also served as township official and in many ways gave high and enduring proof of his ability. His long and cred- itable services as a church official gave ample proof of his prominence in religious circles. He was a shrewd, keen observer of men and events, an assiduous reader, and he had a mind stored with a great fund of information. He and his wife gave earnest support to the Congregational church. Cadwalader Jones died on September 19, 1881, in his sixty-ninth year, and his wife passed away on February 20, 1894, in her seventy-third year.

J. C. Jones was reared and educated in the township where his parents settled when they moved to Putnam county. Educational advantages were limited in those days, and after completing the course in the district schools he was a student for a short time at the Northern Normal School at Ada, Ohio, and, while still a minor, began to teach school. In his younger days literary and debating societies were all the rage, and he took full advantage of the opportunities which were provided by them. His parents were both thoroughly religious people and he has inherited a strongly religious temperament which shows itself in his every-day life. At the age of twelve he united with the Congregational church, and gave his hearty support to the denomination until he moved to Ottawa, in 1890, when he became united with the Presbyterian church. In this denomination he has seiwed as an elder for several years, and takes an active interest in its religious affairs.

Mr. Jones is a Republican in his political interest, but liberal in his views, and his party has frequently honored him by elevating him to official positions of various kinds. He has served as justice of the peace in Sugar Creek township, and in 1889 he was on the ticket as a candidate for representative to the state Legislature, and again in 189 1. He was defeated both times, although he made a splendid race. In 1890 Dr. W. F. Reed, the Republican candidate for county auditor, was elected, and chose Mr. Jones for his deputy, and he served in this capacity for a period of three years. During his deputyship Mr. Jones gave faithful and efficient service in the discharge of his duties. He was responsible for detecting and exposing evidences of official corruption in two of the county offices and, as a result of his efforts, a deficit of nearly thirty thousand dollars was proven, and several ex-county officials were tried and convicted. After retiring from the office as deputy auditor, he engaged in the abstracting business in the county seat for two years, and at the end of that time, became his party's candidate for county auditor. His previous record in this office as deputy made him particularly strong with the people, and after a bitter fight against a large adverse majority, he was elected. He amply vindicated the people's judgment by giving them an efficient administration ?7

In 1899 Mr. Jones retired from the office of county auditor and spent one year in the real estate and abstracting business, after which he took a position in the Putnam Banking Company, of Ottawa. Two years later, in December, 1903, Mr. Jones helped to organize the First National Bank of Ottawa, and has been the cashier of this bank since its organization. In the bank, Mr. Jones shows the same capacity for unremitting toil and fidelity to duty which has characterized him during his whole career.

The career of Mr. Jones cannot be dismissed without reference to his activities for the public welfare in behalf of temperance. In 1908 he was the chairman of the temperance forces of Putnam county, and in 1914, in the fight for the constitutional amendment for statewide prohibition, he was chairman and the leader of the fight in his home county. He is a frequent speaker on the public platform in behalf of public-spirited measures.

J. C. Jones was married on April 9, 1889, to Sarah Davis, of Gomer, Ohio, the daughter of John R. and Ann Davis, and to this union six children have been born, four of whom are now living, Rowena, Florence, Ann Pauline and Robert Cadwalader. Rowena graduated from Oberlin College in the spring of 1914, and is now teaching in the high school at Vaughnsville, Ohio. Mr. Jones' wife is a faithful church worker and devoted to her home life and family, and is a loving and conscientious mother.

John R. Davis and wife, Ann, were born in North Wales and came to Gomer, Ohio, in 1880, where he engaged in agriculture. He was musically inclined, a good singer, and a member of the Welsh Congregational church. They live at Gomer, Ohio. John R. Davis is now seventy-seven years of age, and his wife is seventy-two.

Among the younger generation of Putnam county, there seems to be a goodly number worthy of distinct recognition in a historical work of this nature, and since it is the duty of the chronicler to give credit where credit is due, it is with absolute propriety that consideration is accorded to Edward L. McCrate, who is not only referred to as a leading agriculturist and stock raiser, but, who has won and well merits the esteem and confidence reposed in him by the people of his community. His achievements are the result of concentrated study and well-directed efforts along specific lines.

farm in Pleasant township, Putnam comity, Ohio, and is the son of Joseph and Bridget (Lane) McCrate. Plis father, Joseph, was born on March 17, 1836, in Tipperary county, Ireland, and was the son of Thomas and Ellen (Casey) J\IcCi-ate. Accompanied by two brothers and a sister, Joseph Mc- Crate left his native Ireland and immigrated to this country, where they decided to settle in the state of Ohio. Joseph came to Putnam county, in 1859, where he remained until i8'6i, when, on April 26, of that year, he enlisted in the Union army as a member of the Twenty-first Regiment, Ohic Volunteer Infantry. After three months' service, he re-enlisted, on Septem ber 2, 1 861, -and was assigned to the Fifty-seventh Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as a private soldier and remained in the service until the last gun was fired on August 25, 1865. During his service, he was promoted to first lieutenant and was actually under fire in as many as twenty fierce engagements, the principal ones being the battle of Shiloh, Arkansas, Post Willis Bayou, siege of Vicksburg, Champion Hill, at Jackson, Mississippi, Mission Ridge, Snake Creek Gap, Resaca, Atlanta and Georgia, and Jonesboro. He was with Sherman on the memorable march to the sea and was among the men who crossed the Broad Brand river on a pontoon to drive the Confederate pickets from the posts of Columbia, South Carolina. He was in the charge of Fort McAllister and participated in the last engagement of the war at Bentonville, North Carolina. His brother, John, was enlisted in the Seventy-ninth Ohio Regiment, Volunteer Infantry, which participated in the battles of Perryville, Kentucky, and Resaca, Georgia, and he was wounded during the battle of Lookout Mountain, the result of which wound caused himi to be honorably discharged. Dennis Lane, father of Mrs. Joseph (Lane) McCrate, was wounded in the battle of Resaca and he died from the effects of his wound. Michael, brother-in-law of Mrs. McCrate, was also in the Civil War and was killed in the battle of Nashville, in 1864. After the war was over, Joseph McCrate located in the town of Kalida, Ohio, where he was engaged in the saw-mill business, when, after two years, he purchased a farm, three miles west of Columbus Grove, which he occupied as a home throughout the rest of his life and where he died, February 5, 1907, at the age of seventy years and ten months. On November 8, 1871, he married Bridget Lane, the daughter of Dennis and Mary (Mahoney) Lane, who came to this county in 1858, who was born on June i, 1851, in Butler county, Ohio. To the union of Joseph and Bridget (Lane) AlcCrate were born nine children, Mary E. (Mrs. Amos W. Best), of Union township; John J., of Leipsic; William E., city clerk. Lima; Catherine (Mrs. Martin O'Brien), Lima; Joseph C, of Portageville, Missouri; Paul, who is an engi- neer on the Chicago, Hamihon & Dayton railroad, Lima; Edward L., the subject of this sketch; Mabel, who is occupied as a stenographer in Cleveland; Charles J., who attends school in Dayton. The father's homestead farm consists of three hundred and forty acres of well-tilled and highlyimproved land and it is said that no better farm land exists in this county. There are twenty-seven miles of drain tile on this place and the residence is regarded as one of the most beautiful in this county; the costly barn building recently erected is strictly modern in ever}' respect. At a later date, Joseph McCrate purchased what is known as the George B. Bogart farm of seventynine acres, in Union township, on which he erected a new barn, and on which place Mrs. Amos W. Best makes her home. In addition to this land, the father also purchased a five-hundred-and-eighty-acre farm in the state of Kansas. These holdings were the result of a life of frugality and continued industry and, therefore, it is not surprising that Joseph McCrate accumulated quite a fortune through the means of his own well-directed efforts. During the war there was no soldier who served his country more gallantly or with greater credit than did Joseph McCrate.

Edward L. McCrate remained on the home place during his youth and received his education in the neighboring township schools, and he also took a special course in agriculture in the State University of Ohio, after which he returned to his father's farm and where he has been active ever since. In addition to general farming he gives particular attention to the raising of highly bred and registered cattle, sheep and hogs, especially to sheep, and his specialty is Shropshire sheep and Shorthorn cattle. Besides being considered a splendid judge of live stock, Mr. McCrate is very successful in general farming, and the knowledge gained from the course he took in the State University has given him a decided advantage in agricultural pursuits. On January 7, 191 1, Edward L. McCrate was married to Alice Exelby, who was a native of Lenswee county, Michigan, and a daughter of Walter and Jean (Gibson) Exelby. Her father was a native of Lenawee county and was born in September, 1862, and is still living, at the present time being retired from active farming, which business he pursued almost his entire life. He makes his home in Lenawee county, near the town of Britton, Michigan. He was for many years county supervisor, also township trustee and road commissioner for several terms. Lie is a supporter of the Democratic party and is an active member of the Christian church, of which he is a trustee at this time. Mr. Exelby is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Britton. His wife, Jean Gibson Exelby, was a native of Antrim county, Ireland, was born in the year 1864, and died in Lenawee county.

Michigan, in 1909. To their union were born three children, Alice, the wife of Edward L; Hazel, who is now Mrs. E. A. Babcock, residing in Michigan, and George W., who lives in Detroit.

To Edward L. and Alice (Exelby) McCrate have been born two children, Robert E. and Jean Elizabeth, and they continue to live on the father's homestead farm, which, as stated before, is one of the model farms of the county and which Mr. McCrate takes great pride in showing to his friends arid visitors. Devoting his entire time and attention to making the most of his opportunities in this place, it is gratifying to observe that this young man is a decided success as a farmer and stock raiser and by the constant exercise of his natural thrift and industry, close application to details and by scientifically managing, he is regarded as an authority on matters pertaining to agriculture and stock raising. Personally, he is a most interesting young man to meet and is noted for his pleasing manner and affability. Mr. McCrate's land holdings include an original one hundred and seventy-seven and one-quarter acres on the homestead. He also owns one hundred and tvi^o acres of fine land in the state of Missouri.

]\Ir. McCrate is a supporter of the Democratic ticket, but has never held political office, does not belong to any fraternal organizations, but is an active member of St. Anthony's Catholic church in Columbus Grove, where his family also arte regular attendants. Mr. McCrate is also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Joseph J. Schumaker

No man is great in all things. Many by a lucky stroke achieve lasting fame, who, before that, had no reputation beyond the limits of their immediate neighborhoods. It is the. preliminary work, the method, that serves as a guide for the success of others. Among those in Putnam county who have achieved success along steady lines of endeavor, is the man whose name appears above.

Joseph J. Schumaker was born on January 25, 1846, in Pleasant township, Putnam county, Ohio, and is the son of Anthony and Gertrude Schumaker, who, soon after their marriage, came to this country from their native land, Germany, and settled on a thickly wooded and rather uninviting forty-acre tract of land in Pleasant township, which, by hard and consistent work, was cleared for farming and on which he erected a comfortable home. Anthony Schumaker was born in 1802, and died in 1877, after having passed a full lifetime on the homestead. His wife died in 1885, being then about eighty years of age. Thirteen children had been born to this couple, all of of whom are deceased with the exception of the subject of this review.

Joseph J. Schumaker received his early education in the schools of Pleasant township, and remained under the parental roof until 1865, during which year he was married on November 15, 1865, to Mary Caroline Wellman, who was born on December 24, 1843, ^^d is a daughter of Conrad and Anna Mary (Beckman) Wellman. Soon after the marriage, they purchased a forty-acre farm in Pleasant township, which they cleared and on which they made their home for twenty years. About this time his wife was taken ill and died on October 4, 1885. By this marriage there were twelve children born: Henry Anthony, October 19, 1866, died on September 14, 1868; Mary Anna, March 30, 1869, who is now the wife of Theodore Haselman, a farmer in Liberty township, and whose life history appears elsewhere in this work; Mary Gertrude, September 8, 1870, now Mrs. Mary Bellman, Putnam county; Mary Catherine, March 10, 1872, now Mrs. Henry Bellman, Putnam county; Andrew, October 31, 1873, who married Amelia Maag, and who is a native of Putnam county; John Ferdinand, January 8, 1877, died November 15, 1880; Catherine Amelia, June 21, 1878, now Mrs. George Webken, of Putnam county; Andrew Francis, March 17, 1880, who married Mary Meyer, of Putnam county; Bernard Henry, August 29, 1881, who married Mary Niese, of Putnam county; John Henry, March 6, 1883, who married Anna Maas, of Putnam county; Elziabeth, September 20, 1885, died on September 21, 1885. Three years after the death of his wife, Mr. Schumaker was married to Mary Ann Rechtine (November 8, 1888), who was the daughter of Anthony and Ehzabeth (Honamann) Rechtine, and was born in Putnam county. To this second union were born three children, Anthony, on October 14, 1889, died on June 3, 1904; Mary Elizabeth, May 12, 1892, and now the wife of Matthew Gerdeman, of Kalida, this county; Katherine Elnora, March 23, 1894, who lives under the parental roof and is single.

Soon after his second marriage, Joseph J. Schumaker sold the original farm on which he had lived and purchased another tract in the same township, containing eighty acres, and, subsequently to which was added forty acres, giving a total of one hundred and twenty acres. This is now occupied as the home place and for general farming purposes and the raising of cattle and hogs, it has no superior. Considerable improvement was necessary to make this farm highly productive, but the installation of a system of drainage and other up-to-date methods, brought the place up to the highest point of efficiency for the purposes intended. Many new buildings have been erected, at considerable cost, and, in 1899, a barn forty by seventy feet was built. Earnest application to the work in hand, the study of modern methods and careful management, made this farm quite a little above the ordinary undertaking that comes under the observation of the historian.

Personally, Mr. Schumaker, having spent the greater portion of his life in this neighborhood, and attending strictly to his own interests, is looked upon by those who know him as a man of exemplary habits, absolutely fair in his dealings, and one whom it is a pleasure and a privilege to know intimately. He has always been a Democrat, though he does not take an aggressive interest in party affairs, and for the past thirty years has served well his community as a member of the local school board. Much might be said of the two wives who were always of such great assistance and encouragement to him, and, at all times proved most valuable in all of his undertakings. The second Mrs. Schumaker lived until August 20, 1907, when she passed away. The family are members of Sts. Peter and Paul's Catholic church, of Ottawa, to which they lend support according to their means.

William Kohls

Following is a brief sketch of the career of William Kohls, well-known citizen of Putnam county, Ohio, and a descendant of some of the earliest settlers of this county. The family name has been prominent in the affairs the county for many years and has always stood for that which is honorable and upright in every phase of life. Both those of past generations and the present day have contributed their quota to the esteem in which the name is regarded and each has done his part toward promoting the welfare of the community in which his life was cast.

William Kohls was born in Glandorf, Ohio, on November i, 1838, a son of Henry and Mary Ann (Kottebrock) Kohls, both of whom were born in Lutten, Oldenburg, Germany, the former on October 15, 1794, and the latter in 1800. Henry Kohls came to America in 1831, accompanied by his family, his mother and the father of his wife. At that time, there were but two children in the family, Catherine and EHzabeth, two having previously died in the Fatherland. One of these was a little son named Arnold and the other a child who died in earliest infancy. Upon reaching the shores -of America, the family for a time lived in Baltimore, Maryland, and from there went to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where they remained but one year.. The next move was to Cincinnati, where they stayed for three years and where the father-in-law died and was buried. After leaving Cincinnati, the family settled in Putnam county, and this has since been their home. They reached that locality about the year 1835, and, not very long after coming here, Henry Kohls' mother passed away and was laid to rest in Glandorf cemetery. There were several children born to the family, after reaching this county, the first being John, who first saw the light of day while the family was living in Pittsburgh. After reaching this county, Henry, William,. Anthony and Herman came into existence.

Of William Kohls' brothers and sisters, Catherine became the wife of Joseph Kuhlman, who served in an Ohio regiment during the Civil War, and who died while in the army, leaving her with three children, Hieronymus, Catherine and Theresa. Hieronymus became a priest, Catherine married John Kaple and is now living in Ottawa, this county, and Theresa married Joseph Bauhans and lives in Henry county, this state. Elizabeth, an elder sister, married Henry Closterman and resides in Cincinnati. She is the mother of nine children: Joseph; Henry; Charles, deceased; Josephine;- Clare; Julia, deceased; Elizabeth; Edward, and Pearl. John, the first child born in this country, married Mai'garet Hessling, who bore him five children, namely: Catherine; Henry; John; William, deceased, and Bernard, whose death occurred on September i, 191 1, his wife having died previously.- Four children mourned their departure. Henry, the first child born in this county, lives at Nashville, Tennessee, and is the father of five children: Charles, Amanda, Johanna, William and Maude. The next child in order of birth is William, the immediate subject of this sketch, and after him comes Anthony, who married Theresa Klinkhammer. Anthony was borrr on March 2, 1839, and died on August 5, 1878. He was the father of five children : Henry, Anthony, August, Ferdinand and one child who died when cjuite small. Herman, the younger of the brothers, married Ann vort Lehinder, who bore him nine children, namely : Elizabeth, deceased ; Louis ; Sylvester; Emma; Flora; Cora; Arthur; Ella, deceased, and Philip, also deceased. Herman passed from this life on March 4, 1902. William Kohls received his education in the common schools of Glandorf, and in early life assisted the father in the work about the home farm. In 1865, on ^^y 10,. he was united in marriage to Mary Rothman, bom near Glandorf, and a. daughter of Francis H. and Margaret (Fasken) Rothman. Francis H. Rothman was a native of the Fatherland, having been born on October 10,. 1806, in Steinfeld, Oldenburg, Germany, and through the death of his father, when he was but eight years of age, he was early thrown on his own resources. In early youth, he was a ship carpenter and while on a cruise, was ship-wrecked about twenty miles off the coast of Maryland. He reached Baltimore on November 22, 1833, and from there he went to Memphis and later to Cincinnati, where he secured work on steamboats. He later came to Dayton, and finally, permanently located in Glandorf. In the meantime. Professor Horstman had secured a tract of land for him, containing forty acres, and upon this he settled and set about clearing it and putting it in. a good state of cultivation. He was succeeding well in his undertaking when, in 1836, he sent to the Fatherland for his relatives and his mother, Mary Elizabeth, who, accompanied by her daughter and her brother, Herman Anton Rohe, soon joined him. His mother did not live long after coming to this country, passing away on April 27, 1840, and was buried at Ft. Jennings, this state. His uncle, Mr. Rohe, died on May 17, 1855, and was buried in Glandorf cemetery.

About 1830, Margaret Fasken, who afterward married Francis Rothman, came to America from her native land of Germany, and while living in Cincinnati, met her future husband. Shortly before his relatives came to this country, she came to Glandorf to meet him and they were united in marriage on April 20, 1836, by Professor Horstman. The living to be obtained at that time was very meager, but Mr. Rothman was possessed of ambition and industry and soon had a good start in life. Into their little home the children soon came, Frank, born on November 21, 1837, died on April 20, 1893; Anna Mary, wife of our immediate subject, born on December 21, 1840, and Wilhelmina, December 18, 1842, died on July 29, 1912. During his lifetime, Mr. Rothman was active in public affairs and served as county auditor from 1861 to 1865. His death occurred on April 30, 1896, while his wife died on October 22, 1874, at the age of seventy years. Of their children, Frank married Caroline Drerup and upon her death he chose as his second wife, Anna von Lehinder, who died on September 3, 1909. The second union was blessed with nine children, namely : Mary, Frank, Bernard, Emma, Jennie, Colletta, Julius, Arnold, deceased, and Florence, deceased. Frank was a man largely active in the public affairs of the county, serving as sheriff from 1882 to 1886. His death occurred on April 20, 1893. Anna Mary, the subject's wife, is the second child of the family in order of birth_ and Wilhelmina, the youngest, married William Feltman and became the mother of the following children : Henry ; Frank, deceased ; Bernard, deceased; Mary; William; Anna; Catherine; Theresa; Ignatius, and Louis.

the Blanchard river, where he had purchased a tract of land containing sixtysix acres. Tliere the family lived until 1882, when he purchased a' tract of ninety acres, located near his first farm, and there they lived until 1902, when he practically retired from the more active affairs of life and took up his residence in Ottawa, where he and his good wife are passing their declining days in comfortable repose. 'He still, however, owns one hundred and ninetysix acres of excellent farm land in the county.

To William and Anna Mary (Rothman) Kohls have been born the following children: William H., on December 30, 1866; Frank J., March 12, 1869; Charles E., March i, 1871 ; Mary S., May 17, 1873; Jerome, January 24, 1876; Edward B., July 8, 1878, died on October 30, 1912, and Emma P., January 25, 1883. William H., married Josephine Doepker and lives at Akron. They are the parents of seven children, Stanley, Joseph, Mary, Elizabeth, Dorothy, Agnes and Bernadina; Frank married Caroline Alterkruse and resides in Ottawa; Charles E. married Anna Alterkruse and also resides in Ottawa. They are the parents of eleven children, namely : Gilbert, born on January 21, 1901 ; Francis M., February 18, 1902; Paul W., May 28, 1903; Franklin J., August 20, 1904, and died on February nth of the year following; Cletus, November 8, 1905; Hugo, June 9, 1907, died June 6, 191 5; Rosemary, May 20, 1908; Lucile, November 5, 1909; Donelda, June 2, 191 1 ; Alexa, April 8, 1913, and Charles E., June 30, 1914.

Mary S., eldest daughter of William Kohls, married George Higley, and resides in this county. She is the mother of five children: William, Clarence, Howard, Mary and Agnes. Jerome, who married Elizabeth Earhart, lives in Isabelle county, Michigan. They have five children : Helen, Genevieve, Mary, Richard and Vivian; Edward married Mary Earhart and resided in this county up to the time of his death, on October 30, 1912, leaving two children: Alphonse and Gordon; Emma, the yotmgest of the family, married Gustave Schwartz, of Akron, Ohio. They are the parents of four children, Frank, Mary, Cornelius and Lawrence.

Of William Kohls' children, Frank and Charles have, through their public services, achieved prominence and an excellent reputation throughout this county. Frank attended the college at Ada for two temis, and Charles at that same institution of learning for one term. Frank taught school in this county from 1888 to 1895, and Charles from 1889 to 1897, and another brother, William H., taught school from 1888- 1893. For a time, Frank and Charles were in the hotel business in Ottawa, after laying aside their duties as instructors of youth, and on September 6, 1909, Frank took -office as county treasurer of Putnam county, which office he filled for two

-terms, his brother Charles serving as his chief deputy. After the expiration of Frank's last term, Charles, who had been elected to succeed him, took his ofifice on September 13, 1913, and appointed his brother Frank as his chief deputy. Charles was re-elected in 1914, and Frank continues to serve him as chief deputy. This is surely a most unusual circumstance and throughout their terms of service, both brothers have discharged the obligations of their office in a most worthy and commendable manner. Both being born and reared in this county, where they are well known and count their friends by the score. They are Democrat in politics and are among the best workers that party has in this section. The Kohls family are communicants of the Roman Catholic church, being of the parish of Sts. Peter and Paul.

Frank Av. Helmkamp

The nations of the world have contributed their best blood to the population of this country, but no nation has given to it better citizens or more loyal subjects than Germany. The various revolutions which occur ted in that country in the nineteenth century, while they were unfortunate for the Fatherland, were, on the other hand, a blessing to America, for, during the time of these revolutions, thousands of the best German people fled to the United States and became eager citizens of this country. No more patriotic citizens fought for the North during the Civil War than did the thousands of German soldiers who enlisted under the Stars and Stripes and fought for their newly adopted country. Wherever a German settlement is found in this country, thrift and progress are sure to be seen. Among the many German families who came to this country in the early days of its history, the Helmkamp family occupies a prominent place. Frank W. Helmkamp, although a native-born American, is descended from sterling German parents.

Frank W. Helmkamp was born in Jennings township on August 18, 1853, the son of William and Anna M. (Wrocklage) Helmkamp, the former -of whom was born in Hanover, Germany, the son of Christopher Helmkamp, who was born in Hanover in 1779, and who came to the United States in 1836, settling on a farm near Glandorf, in Putnam county, Ohio. Christopher Helmkamp lived in the latter place for two years, when the family moved to Jennings township, Putnam county, and settled on a farm southwest of Ft. Jennings, in 1838, where Christopher Helmkamp died in 1851. His wife.

who was a Miss Shimmoeller, died in 1857. Frank VV. Helmliamp's mother, who was Anna M. Wrocklage, before her marriage, was born in Hanover, Germany, and came to the United States with her parents, who settled at Delphos, Ohio. Here her parents both died in the same year; the father on April 9, 1846, and the mother on October 2, 1846. William and Anna M. (Wrocklage) Helmkamp were the parents of five children: Elizabeth, born on December 3, 1848, is unmarried and lives at Cincinnati; Ferdinand J., July II, 1850, lives at Delphos; Frank W., with whom this narrative deals; Theodore J., June 9, 1862, lives at Delphos; Mary T., May 4, 1864, died on October 22, 1870.

William Helmkamp was engaged in farming until 1870, when he embarked in the mercantile business, in Ottoville, continuing in this line until his death in 1881. The family conducted the business for four years after his death. The mother died on July 20, 1898.

Receiving a common school education, in 1877 Frank Helmkamp was married to Louisa Schlagbaum, a daughter of George and Dorothy (Hille) Schlagbaum, both natives of Germany. This marriage took place on May 8, 1877. George Schlagbaum was born in Prussia, and came to the United States when he was about twenty years of age. He lived in Cincinnati for six years, where he was married. His wife, Dorothy Hille, was also a native of Germany, who came to the United States and located in Cincinnati, when sixteen years of age. George and Dorothy (Hille) Schlagbaum were the parents of ten children : Barney, Lucy, Mary, Anna and Wihiam lived to maturity. Anna died in 1898. The parents moved to Putnam county in 1855, and settled on a farm east of Ottoville. The father died in 1886, and the mother in 1895.

To Frank W. and Louisa (Schlagbaum) Helmkamp five children have been born : Anna M., on March 6, 1878, is the wife of Joseph H. Shuerman, of Jennings township; Dora T., October 23, 1879, is living at home; Ferd G., November 22, 1881, also lives at home; Joseph T., December 9, 1883, lives at Canton, where he is a mechanic; William B., June 6, 1886, is an architect living at Akron.

Mr. Helmkamp is the owner of one hundred and fifty-three acres of land in section 6, of Jennings township. This farm is known as the Maple Ridge farm, has modern buildings and is as good a farm as can be found in the state of Ohio. Mr. Helmkamp has drained it well and maintains it in a very high state of cultivation. He raises a high grade of cattle and thoroughbred Mule-foot hogs. Maple Ridge farm is located about two miles southwest of Ft. Jennings, and not very far from Delphos.

Mr. Helmkamp is a Democrat. He has served the people of his township as trustee for a period of twelve years. He and his family are all devout members of the Catholic church and belong to the church at Ft. Jennings.

I\Ir. Helmkamp is a successful farmer. He is surrounded with all the comforts of life and has every reason to look upon his career as a success, yet he is public-spirited in everything that he does, and is honored by the people of the community where he lives.

John E. Deffenbaugh

Among the honorable and influential citizens of Putnam county is John E. Deffenbaugh, who has here maintained his home for many years, winning a definite success by means of the agricultural industry to which he has devoted his attention during the years of an active business life. His career has been without shadow of wrong and thus he has ever commanded the confidence and esteem of his fellow men.

John E. Defifenbaugh was born in Jennings township, Putnam county, on March 20, 1869, the son of Albert G. and Mary E. (Rohrer) Deffenbaugh. Albert G. Deffenbaugh was born in Sugar Creek township on February 2, 1840, and was the son of John and Anna (Parshall) Deffenbaugh. John Defifenbaugh was a native of Fayette county, Pennsylvania, born on October 26, 1806, and was the son of Jacob and Eve (Everly) Deffenbaugh. He was a farmer by occupation and was twice married. First to Anna Parshall, the daughter of Elias and Nancy (Struble) Parshall. She ^vas born in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, March 22, 181 1, their married occurring on June 24, 1829. To them were born nine children; Nancy, on May 26, 1831, deceased; Jacob, August 2, 1833, deceased; William, November 19, 1835, died on January 10, 1837; Joseph, October 22, 1837; Albert G, February 2, 1840, died on June 27, 1914; Amanda, born April 2, 1842; Lewis M., November 27, 1845, deceased; Emily J., June 10, 1847; John H., December 11, 1849. John Deffenbaugh was married, the second time, on May 27, 1879, in Van Wert county, to Mary A. Stouder, the daughter of Jacob and Jane (Fitch) Stouder. She was born in Fairfield county, on Mav 2.^, 1818. John Deffenbaugh was for many years active in public life, having served as justice of the peace for twenty-seven years, county commissioner f.or six years, county auditor for four years and filled various

Albert G. Deffenbaugh was born in Sugar Creek township on the old John Deffenbaugh homestead and there grew to manhood. He remained at home until the outbreak of the Civil War, when, on the first call for troops,, he enlisted as a member of Company D, One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which he became a corporal. The regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland and Company D wasunder the immediate command of Captain Taylor. Mr. Deffenbaugh enlisted first for ninety days and later for three years, serving in all four years,, lacking four days. He saw much active service and participated in many important engagements, including the battle of Resaca, and retired from military service with an honorable record. After the close of the war, he returned home and, on April 19, 1865, was married to Mary E. Rohrer, who was born in Champaign county, Ohio, on December 30, 1844, the daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Muma) Rohrer. Her father was born in Maryland in 1822 and was killed on November 19, 1866, by a falling tree. Her mother was bom in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1827. After his. marriage, Albert G. Deffenbaugh worked at the carpenter trade and also operated a saw-mill with his brother, Jacob. He also operated mills in Jennings and Sugar Creek townships for a number of years, and, in 1873, went to Nemaha county, Kansas, where he remained for three years. Returning then to Putnam county, he settled on a farm three miles northeast of Rimer, where he remained for about fifteen years, and then, selling the place, rented a farm for two years, one-half mile east of Rimer. He then retired from active business and moved to Delphos, where he resided for five j^ears, eventually locating in Rimer, where his death occurred on June 27, 1914. His wife, John E. Deffenbaugh's mother, came with her parents to Putnam county when a girl, the family settling one mile north of Rimer, in Jennings township, and there she resided until her marriage. To her parents were born eleven children, Mary E. ; Sarah A. ; Jacob C. and John H., twins; Daniel W. ; William J.; Franklin P.; Samuel; Susan C. ; Charles and Emma Jane. To Albert G. and Mary E. (Rohrer) Deffenbaugh were born seven children, Asa E., John E. ; Louis S., deceased; Ada E. ; Roy C.- Lizzie M., deceased, and William B.

John E. Deffenbaugh was reared in Jennings and Sugar Creek townships, with the exception of three years, when the family resided in Kansas, and he received his education in the common schools. After attaining his majority, he entered into the machinei-y business and has operated a thrashing machine, a well-drilHng machine and other mechanical hnes in which he has met with splendid success. After his marriage, in 1892, Mr. Deffenbaugh spent two years on his grandfather's homestead and then moved to Columbus Grove, where he resided one year. Later, he returned to Rimer,, where he has resided ever since. He has been successful in whatever he has undertaken and has earned the regard of all who know him.

On April 14, 1892, Mr. Deffenbaugh was united in marriage to Mollie Wood, who was born in Allen county, December 13, 1867, the daughter of Sanford B. and Susan (Trice) Wood. To this union have been born three children : Luda D., on April 4, 1894; Ada M., September 12, 1895; and a son who died at birth.

Mr. Deffenbaugh is a Democrat and has long been known as one of the influential citizens of his locality. His religious afi^liations are with the Ottawa River Christian church, in which he is prominent, being the president of the ministerial committee and choir leader. Mrs. Deffenbaugh isalso an interested member of this denomination. Mr. Deffenbaugh, is in the fullest sense of the term, a progressive, self-made American, thoroughly in harmony with the spirit of the advanced age in which he lives, conducting alF of his business matters carefully and systematically and in all of his acts displaying an aptitude for successful management. A sympathetic and broadminded man, he has a host of warm and admiring friends and is numbered among the truly progressive men of his community.

Charles H. Huffman

number of food producers - is striking. Since 1880 there has been a steady decline from forty-four and four-tenths per cent, to thirty-two and nine-tenths per cent, in 1910. The percentage of professional people has shown a slight gain, and the percentage of persons in domestic and personal service shows a considerable falling off in the last decade, amounting in all to five and twotenths per cent. On the contrary, the percentage of persons engaged in mechanical and manufacturing pursuits who are non-producers wholly of the raw materials for food, increased from twenty-one and eight-tenths per cent, in 1880 to twenty-eight and three-tenths per cent, in 19 10. More striking still is the deduction from these figures that, whereas, in 1880, there were forty-four and four-tenths per cent, of the population to feed a re- mainder of fifty-five and six-tenths per cent., in 1910 there was only thirtytwo and nine-tenths per cent, of the working population to feed a remainder of sixty-seven and one-tenth per cent. For some reason the active and successful farmers have been moving into the small towns and into, the cities. Charles H. Huffman, a well-known auctioneer of Putnam county, Ohio, and who for many years was a successful farmer of Sugar Creek township, is one of those farmers who have lately removed to town, and who is now following exclusively the profession which he formerly followed incidentally, while living on the farm.

Charles H. Huffman, formerly a well-known farmer and for many years a well-known auctioneer of Putnam county, was born in Springfield, Ohio, on June 20, 1868. He is the son of Frederick and Mary (Eickhoff) Huffman. Frederick Huffman was born in Germany on May 17, 1833, ^^^ ^"^'^s the son of William Huffman, and wife. William Huffman was a farmer in Gennany, where he owned a farm. He was the father of five sons and one daughter. Frederick, the father of Charles H. ; Christian; William; Henry; Charles, and Elizabeth. All of these children came to America. The only surviving members of the family is Frederick, the father of Charles H.

Frederick Huffman came to America at the age of twenty in July, 1853, making' the voyag-e on a sailing vessel in forty-eight days. He came first to Ohio, and located in Dayton, where he was employed on the farm. He reinained there for a year or two, and then removed to Greene county, where he continued to work on the farm for three or four years. He then engaged in the grocery business in Springfield for several years. At the age of thirty years, in March, 1864, he was married to Mary Eickhoff, who was born near Dayton, on March 28, 1847. She was the daughter of Henry Eickhoff and Avife, both of whom were natives of Hanover, Germany. The former was a farmer. He came to America shortly after their marriage and settled near Dayton, where, shortly afterwards, his daughter Mary was born. Two weeks later, her mother died, and Henry Eickhoff was later married to Dora Huffman. By this second union there were eight children, three sons and five daughters. Henr)^ Eickhoff lived and died on the eighty-acre farm near Dayton, which was the birthplace of Mr. Huffman's mother. She grew to womanhood on this farm and here remained until her marriage.

Frederick Huffman, after his marriage, moved to Tippecanoe, Miami county, and there engaged in teaming. Later, he rented a farm and resided in Tippecanoe for several years. In the fall of 1882, he moved to Sugar Creek township, where he rented two different farms. Five years afterward he moved to Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, and spent one year, one and one-half miles north of Vaughnsville, and then moved to a farm one and one-half miles southeast of that place. Here he resided on the old Michael farm for nine years, or until 1897, when he purchased forty acres of the old John Slusser farm, where he now resides. Frederick Huffman and wife are members of the Christian church. He is a Democrat in politics Frederick and Mary (Eickhoff) Huffman have had nine children, four of whom died in infancy. William died on May 12, 1913; Charles H. is the subject of this sketch; Dora is still living; Matilda is the wife of J. H. Purnell and Albert is still living.

Charles H. Huffman was born in Springfield, Ohio, and spent his childhood m that city and in Miami county. The latter part of his youth was spent m Allen county. After finishing the common schools he helped his father on the farm and remained with him until about thirty-two years of -age. - The following three years he was engaged in the machine business in Ottawa and Columbus Grove.

At the age of thirty-five, or on March 18, 1903, Mr. Huffman was married to Emma Smith, who was born in Sugar Creek township, Putnam county, on November i, 1875, and who was the daughter of James F. and Eliza (Slusser) Smith. The former was born in Putnam county on May 10, 1843,^ and was a son of James Smith and wife. James Smith was a native of Virginia, who came to Putnam county at an early day. The reader is here referred to the parental history of the Smith family, found in the sketch of Charles Smith, a grandson of James Smith, contained elsewhere in this volume. Eliza Slusser was born in Shelby county, Ohio, on January 7, 1845, and died on December 16, 1907. She came with her parents to Putnam county as a child and here lived until her marriage. With the exception of about one year in Allen county, she spent the remainder of her life in Putnam county. James F. and Elizabeth (Slusser) Smith had eleven children, ten of whom lived to maturity and still survive. They are as follow: Ira; James and Joseph, twins; Alice; Benjamin; Emma, the wife of Mr. Huffman; Ida; Anna, who died on October 3, 1895, at the age of fifteen; Luella; Jennie, and Jesse.

_ Mrs. Emma Huffman spent her girlhood on the old Smith homestead until a short time before her marriage, when she removed to Columbus Grove. After his marriage, Mr. Huffman continued to work in the machine business at Columbus Grove for about five years. He then moved to a farm of eighty acres, one and one-half miles north and east of Vaughnsville. This iarm he bought two years previously. Mr. Huffman remained on the farm for about five years, which is improved by a commodious seven-room residence and a large modern bam, forty by eighty feet. It has a cattle barn, also, seventy-eight by thirty-two feet, and other buildings in keeping with the surroundings. Mr. Huffman was engaged in general farming and paid especial attention to hogs and horses. In January, 1914, Mr. and Mrs.. Huffman removed to Vaughnsville, where he now resides. In addition tohis other interests, Mr. Huffman has been an auctioneer for the past sixteen, or seventeen years. He has been very successful in this profession.

Charles H. and Emma (Smith) Huffman have one child, Herbert Harry^ born on July 18, 1913. Mr. and Mrs. Huffman attend the Christian church. Mrs. Huffman is a member of this church. Mr. Huffman is a Democrat. He was a candidate for the Democratic nomination for sheriff in Putnam, county, in 1914. Fraternally, he is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, and belongs to Rufus Lodge No. 364. He is a member of Columbus Grove Lodge No. 464, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Vaughnsville Lodge No. 711, Knights of Pythias. He is also a member of the Improved Order of Red Men at Kalida. Charles ^H. Huffman is a prominent, influential citizen throughout this section of Putnam county. He is alsowell known in adjoining counties in his professional capacity.

Frank W. Ruen

There is no occupation which gives a man the independence of life and which brings him closer to nature than does farming. In pioneer times, farmers found their work very much of a drudgery, but with all modern improvements, the farmer is relieved of much of the hard work which was the. portion of his forefathers. Farming has arisen in dignity until now it is. often referred to as a profession rather than as an occupation. Fifty yearsthe science of agriculture was in its infancy, and to think that a man wascompelled to take a course in college in order to succeed as a farmer was. absurd, yet today our colleges are teaching agriculture as a science and are turning out thousands of young men who are weh trained in the scientific methods of farming. Putnam county is one of the oldest counties in the state, consequently has many fine farms and good farmers within its borders. Among the enterprising and progressive farmers of Putnam county there is. none who stands higher in the esteem of his fellow citizens than does Frank. W. Ruen, of Monterey township.

September 2, 1878. He is a son of William and Sybilla (Furst) Ruen W ilham Ruen was a native of Germany, born in 1824, and on November i 1914, was ninety years of age. Hale, hearty and in good health. The oldest resident m Putnam county, he is deeply interested in the great war in the old country. Each day he reads the newspapers, carefully following each succeeding event in the great struggle for supremacy. William Ruen served under Frederick William in 1848 against the Revolutionists, and as a consequence realizes to the full the significance of this great clash of the nations He came to the United States and located first in Cincinnati in i860 where he lived until 1862, when he was married to Freda Honerbaum. Thev were the parents of four children, three of whom are still living, Anton, the firstborn, died at the age of forty-two, at Granite City, Illinois; William', Jr., lives at Cloverdale, Putnam county; Henry Hves at Ottoville and Mary is the wife of John Furst, living near Ottoville on a farm. After the marriage of William Ruen, he came to Putnam county and settled in Monterey township where he worked for one year for William Reckart. He then purchased forty acres of land in section 19, of Monterey township. Mrs. Ruen died about 1875, and subsequently, William Ruen married Sybilla Furst, to which union five children were born, three of whom are still living, Frank W., the eldest; Theresa, who died at the age of six weeks; Paul, who died at the age of two years; Anna, the wife of Gustavus Trenkamp, of Monterey township; Addie, the wife of Joseph Schmersal, of Greensburg township. The mother of these children died on July 23, 1896. William Ruen now lives with his son, Frank W.

Frank W. Ruen received a common-school education and when he was about twenty-five years old, took possession of his father's farm. He kas improved this place by building a barn and other outbuildings, suitable for modern farming. The house has also been remodeled, and he now has a very attractive and pleasant home. Mr. Ruen makes a specialty of thoroughbred Hampshire hogs, as well as a very high grade of other live stock, and has been very successful in his efforts in this line.

Frank W. Ruen was married on June 7, 1904, to Mary Schlagbaum, a daughter of Barney and Clara (Grewe) Schlagbaum. Barney Schlagbamn was born in Cincinnati. His wife was a native of Germany, and came with her parents, when a girl of six years, to America. Barney Schlagbaum and his wife are still living in Monterey township.

To Frank W. and Mary (Schlagbaum) Ruen four children have been born, all of whom are living, Alex, on January 28, 1906; Helen, May 9, 1909; Martha, September 25, 1913, and Marcella, February 11, 1915.

Mr. Ruen and his family are all members of the Catholic church of Ottoville. He is a member of the Catholic Knights of Ohio, and in politics is a Democrat. He was elected for the first term as trustee of Monterey township in 1912, and so efficient was his service that he was re-elected in 19 14. He is now serving as president of the township board. Frank W. Ruen is a man of more than average influence in his community. He is highly respected for his native interest in all good works and is a valuable citizen of any community.

Charles Henry Meyer

When a man is referred to by his fellow men as an industrious, upright, honorable and progressive citizen of the community in which he lives, and is regarded a success in life by his neighbors, it is then that the chronicler of worth-while events begins an investigation and determines, in his own mind, whether or not great credit is due. As a caption for this review, we have the name of a man who stands for everything in the advancement and welfare of the people and whose personal achievements are worthy of mention in a historical work, where they can be referred to by the coming generation.

Charles Henry Meyer was born in Liberty township, Putnam county, Ohio, September 16, 187 1, and is the son of George H. and Mary (Schroeder) Meyer. His father was a native of Putnam county, Ottawa township, and was born on his father's farm on February 7, 1846, where he grew to manhood and received his early education in the township schools. The original farm contained eighty acres in Liberty township, and was always considered a good piece of land for general farming purposes. George H. Meyer is still living and resides on this farm, to which he added more land from time to time, the total of which was two hundred eleven acres and from which eighty acres was sold by him to the subject of this sketch. The father's homestead is situated in Liberty township, and the eighty acres which was sold lies in Pleasant township, this county. The father has continued farming all of his life and is considered a man of sterling quality, honesty and good business ability, industrious and interested in the welfare of the community. He served on the school board for a number of years, and was elected to the office of township supervisor, in which capacity he served for several years, to the satisfaction of the people interested. Religiously, he is an active member of the Catholic church in New Cleveland, Ohio, and of which his family are devout members. Mr. Meyer's mother was a native of Greensburg township, this county, being the daughter of Charles Schroeder, and was born on April 23, 1852. She was married in November, 1870, to subject's father and is still living. To their union were born thirteen children, as follow: Charles Henry, Mary (Mrs. Kuhlman), of Blanchard township; Theodore, of Blanchard township; Anna (deceased), Tracy (Mrs. Edward Kuhlman), of Ottawa township; Katherine (Mrs. Barney Kettles), of Ottawa township; John, who lives in North Dakota; Benjamin, of Blanchard township; Fronia (Mrs. Frank Schmiedebusch), of Liberty township; Agnes (Mrs. John Schmenk), of Blanchard township; Hiram, Andrew and Edward, the last two named are living on the homestead farm.

Charles H. Meyer spent his early boyhood days about his father's farm m Ottawa township and received his education in the township schools. He assisted in clearing the original tract and made himself generally useful thereon, until after the time of his marriage, when he purchased eighty acres from his father and began the erection of a home for himself and family, including the necessary barn and outbuildings, and otherwise improved the place for general farming purposes. This land required considerable ditching and draining and has been cleared, with the exception of ten acres of standing timber. The home is a modern brick structure, both commodious and comfortable, and gives the observer an impression of prosperity.

Mr. Meyer's marriage to Anna Ellerbrock took place October 14, 1896. She was the daughter of Ferdinand and Thracia (Klemm) Ellerbrock, the former having come to this country from Germany, with his parents when he was a lad of seven years of age. The parental grandparents, Theodore and Catherine (Trocke) Ellerbrock, coming to this country from Germany, settled near the town of Glandorf, Ohio, on forty acres of wild and uncleared land and worked on the canal which was nearby. Ferdinand Ellerbrock remained on this original forty acres and to which he added forty acres more prior to his death, on December 25, 1914, at the age of eightytwo years. He proved himself a good, substantial farmer and was highly esteemed by those who knew him, being noted for honesty and integrity of character; he was a true German, kind and loving, and a good provider for his family. His wife was a native of Ottawa township, this county, and a daughter of Henry and Catherine (Gerdeman) Klemm. To them were born eleven children, Catherine (Mrs. Meyer, deceased), Mary (Mrs. Barney Schmenk, Liberty township), Elizabeth (Mrs. Joseph A^eyer, Liberty township), Theodore (deceased), Joseph, of Pleasant township; Andrew, who lives on the home place; Anna (subject's wife), born November 19, '1875;

Tracey (Mrs. Theodore Meyers, Blanchard township) ; Benjamin, who lives on the home place; Lucy (Mrs. Henry F Weiss, Ottawa township), and Agnes (Mrs. Anthony Weiss, of Ottawa township). To the marriage of Charles Henry Meyer and wife have been born the following children : Henry, Martha, Francis (a deceased infant), Mary, Agnes, Clara (a deceased infant), and Alfred.

Politically, Mr. Meyer is a Democrat but he has never had aspirations to hold an office, though, previous to his resignation in 1910, he had served on the local school board for ten j'^ears. He gives his support to the Catholic religion and the family are regular members of the church of that denomination in Columbus Grove. Personally, Mr. Meyer is a hard worker and is well thought of in the community; he is a firm believer in modern farming methods, and gives considerable study to machinery inventions for the saving of labor on the farm. He does not belong to societies of any kind, but is glad to consider every worthy fellow man as a brother and to render assistance to those who need it.

Frank H. Doepker

The vocation of blacksmith has ever been a prominent one in the industries of this country and from the trade of the blacksmith has come the "arm and hammer" familiar to all, symbol of strength and honesty. One of the prominent citizens of Putnam county who is engaged in this occupation is Frank H. Doepker, who, because of his skill in his chosen vocation, is well known throughout this and adjoining counties.

Frank H. Doepker was born in Glandorf, this county, on April 8, 1867, a son of Joseph F. and Mary (Marmon) Doepker. Joseph F., father of Frank H., was a native of Germany, born in Glandorf, near Osuabrick, on November 12, 1836, and he emigrated to this country when a youth of sixteen years. He had received a good education in his native land, for a youth of his years and, almost immediately upon reaching the shores of this country, he came to Putnam county, Ohio, and took up his residence in Glandorf. At that time that town was comparatively young, having been settled by a colony of Germans, under the leadership of the renowned Father Horstman. Near Glandorf, Joseph F. engaged in farming and about the time of the beginning of the Civil War, together with an uncle, named Maag, he took up government land, about one and one-half miles north of Ottawa, this

There he remained for four years, at which time he moved to Ottawa and engaged in teaming and trucking. After several years spent m this manner, during which time he acquired a competency but suffered the Joss of his heaUh, he moved to Akron, this state, where he has since made his home with a daughter.

Joseph H. Doepker was married to Mary Marmon, who was born in this county in 1839, and whose death occurred in September, 1882. She was a daughter of Anton and Dorothy (Trent) Marmon, both natives of Germany, who were married in Hanover and in 1835 emigrated to this country, bringing with them their family of six little children. They located in Glandorf within a year after its settlement, and for a time the father worked on the construction of a canal in this county and, later, took up farming, purchasing the farm where John Marmon now lives, and passed much of his life there. This was virgin soil when he first obtained possession of it and the family endured the hardships and privations of the pioneer of that day. They cleared the land, erected the small cabin of pioneer days, cooked in the fire-place in winter and out of doors in summer, wove the materials for their own clothing, and in spite of all the hard work managed somehow to secure education and make for themselves some social intercourse with adjoining neighbors. There were nine children in all in the family. Those born in Germany were : Henry, William, Joseph, Christian, Frederick and Frank, and after settling in this county John, Mary (mother of Frank H.), and Bernadina, came to join the family circle. The father passed from this life in 1875 and the mother remained with the children until 1892, when she, too, laid aside the burden of the flesh. Both were devout members of the Catholic church, being of the parish of St. John, at Glandorf.

Joseph Doepker is the eldest member of the family, Frank H. being the second eldest, the other children being William, Josephine, John, Addie and Margaret. Joseph married Mary Konst, who has borne him three children, Mark, Lawrence and Irma. Josephine became the wife of William Kohls and has seven children ; Stanislaus, deceased ; Joseph, Mary, Elizabeth, Dorothy, Agnes and Gertrude. John chose as his life companion Mary Horstman and their children are Cornelius, Norman, Mary, Arnold, EInora, Delphinus, Edward and Dorothy. Addie became the wife of Charles Robernalt and Margaret remains single.

Frank, our subject, received his education in the common schools of Putnam county and, after leaving school he secured employment in a wheel factory, where he remained for about six years. By that time, he had de- cided that in that hne there was nothing in store for him in the future, and^ possessing ambition to secure a competence for himself in the world, he decided the best course to pursue was to apprentice himself to a trade. Accordingly, he selected that of blacksmithing as his life's vocation and in 1888 became an apprentice to this trade. He served for four years, when he embarked in business in partnership with his brother, Joseph. This partnership continued throughout fourteen years, when his brother retired from the firm and was succeeded by Frederick Lory and, later, by Mathias Schmenk, who is still a partner, the firm style now being Doepker & Schmenk. Throughout the years the business has been so conducted as to win the good will and patronage of the farmers throughout a large section.

Mr. Doepker's marriage took place on November 20, 1896, when he was united in wedlock with Katherine Noon, of Miller City, this county. She is a daughter of Patrick and Mary Noon, both natives of the Emerald Isle, who, emigrating to this country, located near Columbus, in Franklin county, this state. They remained there but a comparatively short time, however, and forty-one years ago came to Putnam county, where they engaged in farming. Their children are : Patrick, John, Elizabeth, Cecelia and Delia, Thomas and Mary. Thomas first married Abbie Perky and, after her death, chose Emma Mann as his second wife. He is the father of five children, Elizabeth, Edward, Philip, Charles and Wilfred. Mary became the wife of Daniel Dangler and the mother of five children, Effie, Chester, Irvin, Homer and Lucile; Patrick married Hattie Robinson and his children are Harry, Elmer, Alvera and an infant son; John chose Mary Wagner as his wife, who bore him the following children, Anna, deceased; Albert, May, deceased; Arthur, Edna and Lawrence; Edward married Josephine Rechtine and has one child, Lucile; Cecelia is the wife of Frank Kerner and the mother of Mary Agnes, Cornelius and Loretta; Delia became the wife of Thomas Ducey and is without children.

Frank Ft. and wife are the parents of the following children : Lillian, born on February 12, 1896, who, after completing her high school course, fitted herself for a teacher and is now teaching in the school at Kief ersville ; Arthur, born on June 16, 1898, remains at home and assists his father in the blacksmith business, and Mary Elizabeth, born on January 12, 1906.

Mr. Doepker is a progressive man in his business, his establishment being equipped with all modern devices. The mechanical section of the shop is operated by electricity and he also owns one of the latest acetylene welding devices. The business is a success f til venture, due largely to his untiring industry and excellent workmanship. He holds his religious membership with the Cathohc church and his fraternal affiHation with the Modern Woodmen and Cathohc Knights of Ohio. He is a Democrat in politics, but exercises mdependent views in such matters. The family is considered among the most substantial and most highly respected of this county.

Bernard Leopold

One of the best-remembered business men and farmers of the past o-gneration m Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, was the late Bernard Leopold "of Mr. Leopold, personally, it may be said that he was a man of strong and active sympathy; his temperament was warm and ardent, his feelings deep and intense. These and other characteristics unconsciously drew him an unusual number of devoted friends, upon whom, in all circumstances, he could rely and who, now that he has passed from earthly scenes, revere his memory. He was a close student of human nature and comprehended, with little effort, the motives and purposes of men. He was a lover of truth and sincerity; indeed, he is remembered as a manly man, of pleasing and dignified presence; a student of many subjects and an influential man in the life of Putnam county. Of sound character and unflagging energy, he stood as a conspicuous example of symmetrically-developed American manhood, and his position as one of the community's representative citizens was acknowledged by all. He was a native of a country which has given to the United. States many noble minded citizens.

Bernard Leopold was born in Glandorf, in Hanover, Germany, in 1812, and was about seventeen years old when he came to America. He had intended to come with Professor Horstman and his party, who first settled Glandorf. To avoid being drafted for the army, the lad left before the others and was the first man to leave Glandorf for America. The ship was hung up for six weeks at Southampton, England, and, while there, another ship passed them which was bearing the first settlers of Glandorf. Mr. Leopold went to Cincinnati and there worked in a brickyard for a year.

In the spring of 1834, in company with Henry Siebeneck, Bernard Leopold started on foot and walked all the way to Glandorf. He entered eighty acres of land in Greensburg township, two miles west of Glandorf. He walked from Glandorf to the land office and then went back to Cincinnati, where he remained for two years. He purchased a four-horse team, and engaged in hauling lumber. While in Cincinnati, he often passed a little girl of eleven years, named Elizabeth Siemer. He often took her up to ride with him on her way to school. Years afterward, he again met her and she became his wife.

In 1836 Bernard Leopold came back to Glandorf and started a little store, the first one in Glandorf. He was compelled to drive to Piqua to get his merchandise and it took two weeks in those days to make the round trip. Mr. Leopold was a very useful man to his community, as he would trade for anything which the settlers had to offer. His wife conducted the store much of the time, while he did the trading and the outside work. From a very early date, at least as early as 1842, he began packing pork and bought hogs from a large territory as far away as Leipsic, developing quite a business. During the war he also salted cattle. About 1862 he quit packing pork and in 1863 closed his store.

In 1864 he prepared to build a hotel in Ottawa. He had the bricks made in his own brickyard in Glandorf. In 1865 he built the hotel on the south side of Main street, just west of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad, and kept it until March, 1868, when he rented it to Allen Brothers. Mr. Leopold then purchased two hundred and forty acres of land north of Ottawa, of which forty acres is now inside the town limits. He made his home there the rest of his life and became the owner of a great deal of land at different times.

Bernard Leopold was married three times, his first and second wives each dying about a year after marriage, leaving no children. His third wife and mother of all of his children, was Elizabeth Seimer, who was the little girl who rode in his wagon years before in Cincinnati. She was born in Oldenburg, Germany, and came to America with her parents when ten years old. They settled at Fort Jennings in a little log house on the banks of the Auglaize river. Her father was a carpenter and cabinetmaker, but died a year after coming to this country. After her father died, it was decided to send the child to Cincinnati, where she could live with an elder sister and attend school. The little girl started on the way alone on foot with her belongings in a pillow case, which she hung over her shoulders, suspended by a stocking sewed to the upper corners. She had only thirty-seven cents in money. People asked her if she was running away from home, but, upon hearing her story, treated her kindly and helped her on her way.

Bernard Leopold died on August 6, 1891, and his wife followed him on November 5, 1904. Both of them were strong, able characters, influential .and well known and worthy of the high esteem in which they were held by

SO many people. Bernard Leopold is gratefully remembered -by many residents of Ottawa, Glandorf and Putnam county, whom he helped in an early

Theodore J. Kerner

A prominent citizen of Ottawa, Putnam county, Ohio, is Theodore T Kerner, a member of the firm of Falke Brothers & Kerner, monument manufacturers and dealers. This firm has been in existence since November 1904 although the business was started ten years previously by John Falke and c' Scherg-er & Sons, under the name of C. Scherger Sons & Company, and Iheodore J. Kerner was employed as their representative. The business was first located at the corner of AValnut and Main streets, where the Dumont Hotel IS now situated. In October, 1895, the firm bought the building where the business has smce been conducted.

Theodore J. Kerner, the son of Matthias and Elizabeth (Henry) Kerner, was born in Greensburg township, Putnam county, Ohio, March 27 1861' His father was born in Rhein-Beuren, Germany, January 2, 1810, and came to America when a young man and located at Massillon, Ohio, and died in 1881. In that city Matthias Kerner married Elizabeth Henry, who was born on December 3, 1821, in western Pennsylvania, of Dutch ancestry, and died m 1890. Matthias Kerner came to Putnam county, Ohio, in its early history and was one of the earliest settlers to locate here. He made his permanent home in Greensburg township, buying a farm there, on which he lived until his death at the age of seventy-one. He increased his land holdings from time to time and later bought a farm in Union township and added another farm in Greensburg township. Nine children were born to Matthias Kerner and wife: Mary A., Joseph, Elizabeth, Phillip, Theresa, Bernardine, Catherine, Caroline and Theodore J.

Theodore J. Kerner was educated in the district schools of Greensburg township, and when he was about nineteen years of age, went to New Bavaria, Henry county, Ohio, to learn the blacksmith trade. He remained there three years, receiving twenty-five dollars for his first year's work ; fifty dollars for the second year, and seventy-five dollars for his third years' services. For five years he worked at the blacksmith trade altogether, spending the last year or so in Defiance, Ohio. After recovering from an attack of typhoid fever, he went to his old employer at Holgate, who was then operating a general wood-working factory, and while working in this fac-

This injury to Mr. Kerner proved to be a turning point in his life. Although he was several years past his majority he made' up his mind to become a school teacher. His elementary education had been very limited,- and he knew that he would have to go to school in order to prepare himself to teach. Accordingly he went to Ottawa and attended the public schools there for two years. He studied diligently, day and night, in order to prepare himself for some kind of professional career. He absorbed as much information in those two years as many people do in three times the same period, and had no difficulty in securing a license to teach. For the next ten years he taught school, beginning with a summer school just out of Ottawa, known as the New England school. He received the munificent sum. of twenty-five dollars for his first summer's teaching. He had thrown his whole heart and soul into his profession, and gave such excellent satisfaction,, that he was engaged for the winter term, and at the expiration of his first winter term he taught again the next summer. As a matter of fact, he taught winter and summer and really started the custom of giving summer and winter terms, with a longer vacation at the holiday time. Mr. Kerner made an enviable record as a teacher, remaining in the profession longer than he really wished to, because his patrons urged him to continue teaching. However, his health failed on account of the close confineme:nt in the school room, and he was finally compelled to give up the profession. In 1895 he entered into the monument business, as has been previously mentioned, and he has given it all of his time and attention since.

Air. Kerner was married on May 31, 1887, at Defiance, Ohio, to Magdalena T. Ardner, who was born in Shelby, Richland county, Ohio, October 28, 1863, and is a daughter of Wendle and Anna (Rimlinger) Ardner. Her father, who was born in 1823, was a native of Prussia, and was a weaver by trade in his native land, although after coming to America he followed farming. Anna Rimlinger was born in 1830. Her parents moved to Defiance county, where they lived the remainder of their lives.

Air. and Airs. Kerner are the parents of five children : Margaret Anna,, born on April 2, 1888, who is the wife of Charles B. Myer, of this county, and has one son. Urban; Alphonsus Philip, born on October 15. 1889, a farmer of this county, who married Emma Alyer, and has one son, Clarence; Alary Alatilda, born on June 3, 1892, of Columbus Grove, the wife of Ralph Shindler, and the mother of one son, Willard, and one daughter, Esstella; John Leo, born on October 28, 1893, single, and Pauline Elizabeth, born

Mr. Kerner is an active Democrat, but has never been a candidate for public office. He is not a partisan in any sense of the word and often votes for the best man, irrespective of political affiliation. The family are loyal adherents of the Catholic church, and Mr. Kerner was active in promoting the Catholic Knights of Ohio, and has served as president of the local organization of Ottawa and has also filled the position of district state deputy and organized Branch No. 60, at Miller City.

Joseph Leopold

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 stimulant to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are often obtained by simple means, and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The everyday life with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunity for acquiring experience of the best kind, and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effort and self-improvement. One of Putnam county's most successful men, who has succeeded largely because of his industrious habits, is Joseph Leopold, of Ottawa, who is well known through his many activities here, having conducted the Leopold Hotel, of Ottawa, the Leopold elevator, and is still better known as the treasurer of Putnam county, having served in this capacity from 1893 to 1897. Mr. Leopold was twice elected to this office.

Joseph Leopold was born in Glandorf, Putnam county, Ohio, September 21, 1845. He is a son of Bernard and Elizabeth (Siemer) Leopold, whose history is referred to elsewhere in this volume.

Joseph Leopold was educated in the common schools of Glandorf, and, later, attended college in Cincinnati for about two years. He resided on his father's farm until 1866, when he came to Ottawa with his father, and opened the Leopold Hotel, conducting this hostelry for two years. He then returned to the farm and engaged in buying and shipping live stock for several years. Later, he took charge of the Leopold elevator, buying and shipping grain until 1892. In that year he was elected on the Democratic ticket, as treasurer of Putnam county, taking office in September, 1893. He conducted this upon strictly business principles, was pleasant and obliging to all, and in recognition of his merits was re-elected in 1894, and held the office for a second term. Indeed, it was only by a very small margin that his constituents failed to put him in the office for a third term in 1898. This margin has been accounted for by one of those flukes in politics that was in nowise a reflection on Mr. Leopold and he left the office with the knowledge that he had performed his duties ably and well. After going out of office, JVEr. Leopold resumed farming and has followed this occupation since that time. Lie has a farm in Palmer township, near Miller City, consisting of more than two htuidred acres.

Joseph Leopold was married on May 4, 1871, to Elizabeth Recker, who was born on her father's farm about a mile south of Glandorf, Putnam county. She is a daughter of Herman Henry and Mary (KottenbrOck) Recker, and is a descendant of an honored pioneer family of Putnam county. A record of her parents is given in the sketch of Frank Recker, on another page of this volume. Suffice it to say here, that her father was a justice of the peace of Ottawa township for more than twenty-five years, and commissioner of the county for two terms, of three years each. He was a man of influence in his community, and widely known and respected by all.

Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Leopold, two of whoixt died in infancy, the others being Charles, Benjamin, Louis W., Mary, Bessie, and Herman Joseph, who died at the age of six. Charles married Catherine Roof, and lived on the Leopold farm until his wife died in August, 1899, leaving two children, Herman and Hildegarde. Charles Leopold himself died in 1902, and his children have made their home with Mr. and Mrs. Leopold ever since. Benjamin T. Leopold, the second son of Mr. and Mrs. Leopold, lives in Ottawa, and has held several official positions in the county. He married Mallie Brinkman. who died January 25, 1913. Louis W. Leopold is a resident of New York city, and is engaged in the advertising business; he married May Harker, and they have one son, Louis J. Mary, unmarried, lives at home with her parents. Bessie, also living at home, is a stenographer.

The Leopold family are all earnest and devout members of the Catholic church, and are actively interested in the work of this denomination. Joseph Leopold is one of those men who stand out in the civic and political life of a county as a leader of unquestioned merit. He has always been interested in public movements, and himself is a public-spirited citizen. Moreover, he is one of those men the value of whose work does not end when his active career ceases. The influence which he will have left behind will go on, not only to the succeeding generations of his own family, but to the succeeding generations living in Putnam county as well.

David Alexander Leinsetter

:Many farmers have been called to positions of olBcial responsibility by the people of their community. In fact, the farm is a most prolific training, school for citizenship, and especially for the public service, probably because It first trains for that high degree of rugged honesty so necessary in the public service. One of the most successful' farmers of Liberty township, and one of the leading citizens of that township, is David Alexander Leinsetter.

Air. Leinsetter was born on December 13, 1867, about five miles north-- west of Leipsic, Putnam county, Ohio. He is a son of John A. and Elizabeth (Krebs) Leinsetter. The history of the Leinsetter family is contained in the sketch of John A. Leinsetter, to be found elsewhere in this volume. Mr. Leinsetter grew to manhood on the home farm, and lived there until he was twenty-three years of age, at which time he married. His marriage took place on January i, 189 1, at which time he was married to Emma Schweitzer, a daughter of Frederick and Christian (Gottmeier) Schweitzer- Frederick Schweitzer, the father of Mrs. Leinsetter, was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, in 1844, the son of John Michael and Rosina (VVolfinger) Schweitzer, both natives of Wuertemberg, Germany, who came to the United States in their youth, and were married in this country. They lived and died in Fairfield county. Mr. Schweitzer lived on a farm until fifteenyears old, when he learned the shoemaker's trade and followed that occupation in Lancaster. After he had learned this trade he returned to the farm and lived there until his marriage to Christina Gottmeier, who was born in Germany, and at the age of four years came to America with her parents. Philip Gottmeier and wife, who located in Lancaster, Ohio, where she lived until her marriage. In 1872, Mr. Schweitzer and wife came to Leipsic, and here he operated a shoe store, the first of its kind in Leipsic. It was located, on the south side of Main street, juit east of where the Ohio electric lines now run on the lot now occupied by Kuntz's grocery. He conducted this store for about four years, when it was sold to Mr. Alaehlman. On account of his wife's health, Mr. Schweitzer moved to the country, where he farmed for about two years, after which he returned to Leipsic and resumed his trade, which he has followed since. Mr. Schweitzer was a member of the city council of Leipsic for a time. He and his wife were the parents of ten children, of whom five died in childhood. Those living are as follow : David, of Toled®; Rebecca, the wife of Henry Pfiester, of Leipsic; Emma, the wife of David Leinsetter; George, furniture' dealer of Leipsic, and Albert, a resi-

After Mr. Leinsetter's marriage, he farmed for one year on the home place, after which he moved to Leipsic and engaged in the hardware business in the firm of Pfister, Leinsetter & Company. He remained with this firm about a year, after which he followed the well-drilling business for a year. Finally, he bought eighty acres three and one-half miles northwest of Leipsic.

When he moved to this farm, there were only a log cabin and a small barn on the place, which was badly run down and only partly cleared. He has improved it and made of it a good farm, erecting a substantial brick liouse and many other good farm buildings.

To Mr. and Mrs. I^einsetter two children have been born, Earl Winfred and Edith Elizabeth. Mr. Leinsetter is a genial, wide-awake, enterprising citizen. He has been honored by the people of Liberty township on several occasions. He served as trustee of the township for over four years, first by election, and then by appointment, and became assessor of the township in 19 14, and, in all of these various official positions, he has discharged his duties in a manner eminently satisfactory to the people of Liberty township.

Mr. and Mrs. Leinsetter are active and devoted members of the Lutheran church, to which they give liberally of their time and means. They are popular socially in their home township and have a wide circle of friends and acquaintances.

Gerhard B. Meyer

Ohio has been especially honored by the characters and careers of her farmers. In every section have been found men born to leadership in this vocation, men who have dominated because of their superior intelligence, natural endowment and force of character. It is always profitable to study such lives, weigh their motives and hold up their achievements as incentives to greater activities and high excellence on the part of others. These reflections are suggested by the career of Gerhard B. Meyer, who during his life, forged his way to the front ranks of the farmers of Putnam county. By his inherent force of character, his buoyant business ability, he was able to direct and control the actions of his neighbors and fellow citizens. He was a leader in his vocation for more than a generation and few men in Putnam county achieved a more honorable position or occupied a more conspicuous place as a farmer than the late Gerhard B. Meyer. . His success was

The late Gerhard B. Meyer was born in Hanover, Germany, on August -^6, 1833. the son of Theodore and Anna (Mersman) Meyer. Gerhard B Me.ver came with his parents, in 1834, to Glandorf, Putnam county, and spent almost his entire life there. His father located on a farm in section 3, southwest of Ottawa, which he purchased from Professor Horstman M that time it was all a new country and Indians were still in the vicinity

On May i, 1853, Mr. Meyer was married to Anna M. Moening, a sister of Henry Moening, whose life history is found elsewhere in this volume and which gives the parental history of Mrs. Meyer. She was born in Ottawa township, southwest of Glandorf on April 29, 1835, and was the seventh child baptized m Glandorf. Theodore Meyer, Mr. Meyer's father, was connected yith the organization of the church at Glandorf, where Mrs. Gerhard B iNleyer was baptized.

After his marriage, Mr. Me.ver remained on the farm. He was born in Hanover, Germany, and after his father's death, purchased the interest of the heirs in the estate. Gerhard B. Meyer owned, altogether, at one time three hundred and eighty acres of splendid farming lands in Putnam county' He also conducted a threshing machine for many years and was successful m this business.

To Gerhard B. and Anna M. (Moening) Meyer, eleven children were born, of whom eight grew to maturity, Henry, who lives about two and onehalf miles southwest of Leipsic; Theodore, who lives at Toledo; Joseph who lives about one and one-half miles southwest of Leipsic; Herman, who' lives about two miles southwest of Ottawa; Mary, who is the wife of Henry I<reinbnnk. a farmer of the west edge of West Leipsic; Frank, who farms the old home place southwest of Ottawa; Kate, deceased, who was the wife of Frank Karhoff; and Lizzie, the wife of Joseph Kleman, who lives in the western part of Liberty township.

Gerhard B. Meyer died on September 17, 1900, and his wife died on March 6, 1912. With the passing of these venerable citizens, Putnam county lost two of Its pioneer settlers and two of its most highly respected citizens Gerhard B. Meyer was a modest, unassuming man, but he was a man of a deeply religious nature who believed in and practiced the fundamental principles of Christianity. He was one of those men of whom it may be truly said that he performed a noble work and that there must be given to him by the eternal order of things the reward laid up that is in store for those who -do their duty well on this earth.

I4Io Putnam County, Ohio George Jacob Schram

A review of the life of the honored and lamented George Jacob Schram must, of necessity, be brief and general in its character. To enter fully intQ the interesting details of his career, touching the struggles of his early manhood and successes of later days, would far transcend the limits of this article. He filled a large place in the ranks of enterprising and public men of his day and generation, and the luster of his deeds and the memories which attach to his name and character, form no inconsiderable chapter in the history of the community where he did his work and achieved his success. It is sufficient, however, to entitle him to an honorable position among the brave and energetic self-made men of Ohio, who, by enterprise and unswerving integrity, forged to the front and won for the grand old Buckeye commonwealth a place second to none in the bright constellation comprising the union. That he did his part nobly cannot be gainsaid, and, though deceased, he yet speaketh in the works which he accomplished and in the many kind deeds and wholesome influence, which, not only his friends, but the community as well, prize as a great heritage.