Sandusky County, Ohio - Chapter 23: Townships and Towns, 1909 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 23: Townships and Towns

Settlement and Organization of the Townships - Settlement and Founding of the Towns - Sketches of Croghansville, Lower Sandusky, Clyde, Bellevue, Green Spring, Woodville, Gibsonburg, Hessville, Lindsey, Vickery, etc.

The first settlement was in that part of the township adjacent to the Two-mile Square Reservation. Among the settlers were David Moore, Asa B. Gavit, John Wolcutt, Mr. Rexford and Mr. Chaffee. In 1819 the first family, Samuel Cochran's, located above the bend of the river. This year added to the inhabitants of the township several families, among them being John Fitch, John Custard and the Prior family. In 1820 permanent settlement began, and the country rapidly filled up with emigrants from New York, Pennsylvania and southern Ohio.

The Prior family, consisting of the parents and five children, came from Virginia to Ohio in 1816. Samuel and Margaret Cochran were natives of Massachusetts. After their marriage and removal to Buffalo, Mr. Cochran built a half-deck vessel and transported his family, in 1816, from Buffalo to the mouth of the Huron, where the family remained about three years, during which time, in 1818, Mrs. Cochran died.

In 1819 General Cass, then Indian agent, employed Mr. Cochran to assist the mail carriers at the mouth of Wolf Creek, when the water would be high. He cleared a small tract and built a cabin. This was the first white man's cabin in the upper part of the township. By the time the land came into market, after the Indian title became extinguished, he had cleared twenty acres. But like many other squatter settlers he lost his improvement in consequence of being overbid at the government sales. Mr. Cochran afterwards purchased land on the river about seven miles below

Lower Sandusky, where he lived from 1822 until his death in 1825. He left surviving him nine children, viz: Elizabeth (Johnson), Minerva (Smith), Cynthia (Sherman), David, Samuel, Henry, Fannie (Courtwright), Harriet (Seager) and Nancy (Frary). Phineas Frary (husband of Nancy Cochran) was one of the early settlers at the mouth of Wolf Creek. Their daughter, Margaret, was probably the first white child born in the township. Harriet first married Thomas Miller, October 23, 1826. After her father died and until the time of her marriage she lived with her sister, Mrs. Frary, and assisted in clearing the farm. Mr. Miller settled on Portage River, where Woodville has since been laid out. Here he died in 1828.

' David Moore moved from Ross to Sandusky County in 1818. He built a double log cabin on the bank of the river. A little below that he built a grist-mill, and ground the grain of the pioneers until his death, December 24, 1829, which was caused by an accident in falling, at night, from the attic of the mill to a lower story. He was 63 years old. The old settlers in those days did not all use patent flour. The following is a copy of many orders for meal which are still in the possession of the Moore family in Ballville.

Ezekiel Rice

Dear Sir: Please send by the bearer two bushels of corn meal, and charge to me. EZEKIEL RICE. David Moore's wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Davis, remained on a farm in

Ross County, where she died, July 1, 1826. The children of David Moore were Elizabeth (Justice), Sarah (Fields), George, James and John Moore, all of whom came to Sandusky County. George Moore returned to Ross County in 1830, and settled on Paint Creek, eight miles south of Chillicothe, where he died October 1, 1850, leaving a widow, Mrs. Rachel Moore, and four children, David, Eliza, Morris and William, all of whom are dead. David left four daughters, Georgia, Ella, Kate and Willie. James Moore died December 20, 1873, from an accident that happened to him in his mill. John Moore died May 31, 1876, aged 78. Eliza Jiistice died October 17, 1876, aged 76. Date of death of Sarah Fields not known.

Moses Nichols came to the township in 1820. He constructed a tannery on the river road just outside the limits of the Two-mile Square Reservation.

We have already spoken of the first settlement at the mouth of Wolf Creek; between there and the village of Ballville, by 1824, nearly every farm on the west side of the river had been improved.

Elizabeth Tindall kept the only public house along this road. She came to the township with her family, consisting of five sons, Samuel, Daniel, William, John and Edward, and two daughters, Eliza (Lovejoy) and Amy (Bond). J. L. Tindall, the oldest son of Edward Tindall, was born May 4, 1838.

Between the Tindall estate and the Gavit farm were a number of improvements made about 1822, among the settlers being Mr. Woodruff and John Custard.

Mr. John Rhidout, father of William Rhidout, was one of the first settlers in the northwest part of the township. He was a shoemaker, and came west for the purpose of engaging at his trade at the Indian missionary

The settlement in the upper part of the township on the east side of the river began in 1832, after the Senecas had been removed to their western home, and the reservation which they had occupied had been thrown upon the market. Other early settlers were Thomas Sherrard, Benj. Decker, T. Holmes, Dennis DeRan, Isaac Maurer, P. Doell, David Halter, Henry and John Fry, Jonas Smith, Joseph Hershey, John Hutchins, Mr. Ensminger, John Halter, George Fry and Cornelius Hufford.

Religious Organizations

The following is a list of the United Brethren preachers who held services in the Batezole Schoolhouse and later at Mt. Lebanon, from 1835 to 1907: Benjamin Moore, Joseph Bever, John Davis, John Dorcas, Michael Long, S. Lillibridge, J. C. Bright, S. Hadly, John Lawrence, P. J. Thornton, D. Glancy, B. J. Needles, W. Bevington, Wesley Herrington, R. Wicks, D. P. Hurlbut, J. Lemmon, Jacob Newman, John French, W. Jones, James Long, H: Gurtis; S. lV. Lane, DG." Oeden, "Arne Stemen, S. Foster, W. Miller,, Peter Fleck, R. Kea Wyant, J. Mathers, (De Py-Cender."S) 44 Bandebaugh; D. Dy Hart, BM sone es: Maurer, A. Powell; -D. "S> Caldwell" Tr D: Ingle, John Hipple, J. A. Young, J. Young, W. P. Bender, I. E. Ingle, A. H. White, P. O. Rhodes, J. Sargeant, H. L. Snyder, E. Loose, J. S. Smith and J. O. Rhodes.

Mt. Lebanon was built in 1864. 'The first trustees were Revs. M. Long, M. Bulyer, Noah Young, Mr. Anson Eldridge and Mr. John Batezole. The following persons have served as superintendents of the Sunday school there: Noah Young, S. Young, C. Young, Jacob Burgner, B. M. Long, J. W. Worst, H. C, Seth. Nees. Love. Fo .P.**Smith, Norton Young, Sidney Strohl, W. H. Sibord and W. H. Kisen.

The church building at Hoover's Corners was erected about 1854; in 1864 a class was formed at the mouth of Wolf Creek by Samuel Jacoby, known as "Clingers Class." A meeting-house was afterwards built called Wolf Creck Church. In 1868 a house of worship. free for all denominations, was built about four miles south of Ballville Village called Union Chapel. Dr. Bushnell of Fremont and Dr. Willard of Tiffin held services there about 1870, but now no preaching service is maintained there.

McGormley Church - About the year 1880, during the pastorate of Rev. Jesse Richards, of the First Reformed Church of Fremont, Ohio, and under his direction, a Union Church was built, four miles southeast of Fremont, near the McGormley Cemetery, known by several names, as the White, the McGormley, the Union and the Maurer Church, in which very successful services were held by the Reformed ministers, in connection with services in the Fremont and the Four-mile House Churches, for several years, until during the pastorate of Rev. J. I. Swander, D. D., when regular services were discontinued, and the church building used by different denominations for funeral services only, and it continues to be so used. The Sunday school has also been discontinued. The first trustees of the McGormley Church were Isaac Maurer, Jonas Smith and Henry Baumann.

Oakwood, St. Joseph's and St. Ann's - Oakwood, on the river bank, is a beautiful cemetery under a board of careful trustees. Directly in front of the entrance is a large circular lot where President and Mrs. Hayes, three children and one grandchild lie buried. A simple but handsome sarcophagus of Vermont granite bears their names. The highest monument in the yard is the plain shaft commemorative of Sardis Birchard. Many other fine stones are to be seen as one wanders about the place, with here and there fresh flowers; and the little flags marking the places of those who served their country in the Civil War, numbering more than two hundred graves.

Not far awav are the respective cemeteries vf St. Joseph's and St. Ann's Catholic Churches. A fine road was opened hither from Buckland Avenue a few years ago. At the highest points of land stand great crosses; the grounds are beautifully shaded and carefully kept. and contain many fine monuments.

The first schools, of which any record can now be found, were in the Babione district on the east and Tyndall district on the west side of the Sandusky River, in 1833. Miss Harriet Mudge was the first teacher in the former, and it was a subscription school. The schoolhouses were of logs. The first board-siding schoolhouse was the Duesler schoolhouse. Among the earliest teachers were Jonathan Lockwood, Noah Young, Peter Hershey, Wesley and Enoch Kolbe.

Early in the forties the Batezole, Mudge and Ballville schools were added. All had puncheon seats and a slanting shelf around the walls for a desk. The schools were held only in the winter time at first, but later on spring and fall terms were added. The first school directors of whom there is any record to be found were Isaac Glick, George Mudge, John Dawson, Daunt Tindall, John Moore and Jonas Smith. John Moore served the Ballville district for about twenty years.

'teachers were supplied with useful demonstrating apparatus, to aid them in obtaining the best possible results. In 1908 the board of education wisely adopted supervision and employed Mr. George W. Bloom, superintendent of the schools for 1908-1909. The result has been highly gratifying, and the board has employed Mr. W. A. Danford for the year 1909-1910, Mr. Bloom having withdrawn to assume the duties of county auditor, to which he was elected in 1908. There are thirteen sub-districts in the township, with a school enrollment of 300 pupils and twelve teachers for thirty-two weeks at an expenditure for tuition not including supervision, which is not yet offcially reported for the year, $3,978.

About 1821 two grist-mills were built, one by David Chambers, the other by David Moore, both near the second rapids of the Sandusky River, and further up a saw-mill by Mr. Tindall. Moore subsequently became the owner

And Representative Citizens

In 1835 James Moore, son of David, began the erection of a new saw-mill, which was put in operation in 1837, into which Mr. Choate moved his carding machinery, which he continued to operate there for three years, the last year working 40,0000 pounds of wool. He sold out to Asa Otis and P. C. Dean, who continued to operate the same for some years thereafter.

In 1858 James Moore built the mill known as the Stone Mill, near the spot where the skirmish with the Indians known as "Ball's Battle" occurred in 1813. This mill is now owned by H. H. Tucker. In 1867 P. C. Dean and John Moore built what was called the Croghan Mill. Mr. Dean sold out to his partner, who conducted the business until his death, when it passed into the hands of his sons. It was burned in 1878 and rebuilt the same year. Of all the mills and factories mentioned none are in operation, except the Stone Mill at the upper dam, which is conducted by H. H. Tucker & Son. The lower dam and all the buildings formerly connected therewith but two ' are gone, and these are unoccupied. The dam was swept away by recent great ice gorges occurring with floods.

The Fremont Power & Light Company, recently incorporated, has secured, by purchase, all the mill sites, river and flowage reights on the river, for a distance of about two and onehalf miles, and are just completing plans for the construction of a hydro-electric plant at Ballville, which will, in the future, conserve the energy of the Sandusky River for industrial, commercial and domestic uses in the city of Fremont and vicinity.

The falls of the river which have heretofore been utilized for the operation of these mills and factories will, by the present development, all be brought under a single power with a static head of about forty-three feet - thus producing, for the greater portion of the year, about three thousand horse-power for the gen-

These rapids of the Sandusky River always presented a scene of industrial activity by the operation of these mills and factories in the vicinity of Ballville, until steam-power gradually superseded the natural water-power.

But recent inventions and modern machinery have made it possible to turn the energy of rivers into account for the better service of humanity ; and if the project be successful, Ballville Township will have the distinction of being the home of one of the most modern hydro-electric plants in the country.

The D. M. Potter Drain Tile & Brick Company is a large and prosperous concern of Ballville Township, the active head of which is Daniel M. Potter. Many years ago, or about the beginning of the Civil War period, the father of Mr. Potter, Henry Jarvis Potter, picked up on his land some lumps of clay which had been burned to a red color, and this was the first indication he had that the soil was excellent for brick and tile making. His son Daniel was then but a child, but a number of years subsequently he began the manufacture of brick and tile on a small scale, at first doing all the work himself. The business gradually increased until he found it necessary to employ help and he now employs eight men on an average, and does a business approximating $6,000 annually. His entire output is purchased by farmers in the vicinity.

There are three bridges across the Sandusky River in this township, the covered bridge at the village, built in 1858; the covered bridge higher up the river known as the Tindall bridge, built in 1864, and the iron bridge still further up known as the Gilmore bridge, constructed in 1901.

Village Of Clyde And Green

Clyde, and thereby acquired the distinction of peing the first settler. Benton's claim coniained eighty acres, being the east half of the southeast quarter of Section 14. The tract is bounded, nearly, as follows: Commencing at the crossing of the Big-Four Railroad on Main Street, thence west to the organ factory, thence south to the waterworks, thence east on the line of South Street, extended to Main Street, thence north along Main Street to place of beginning. A few steps north and east of a spring, later known as Harkness' Spring. On this land Benton erected a log house in which he and his family lived until the land came into market, when Samuel Pogue bought it from the Government, and after purchasing Benton's improvement, for a barrel of whisky, immediately took possession of the place and with his family lived in the Benton cabin until about 1828, when his death occurred. In 1822 he was elected one of the first township officers. Lyman F. Miller (his stepson), Amos Fenn, Silas Dewey and Giles Thompson accompanied him to this vicinity in 1820. All of them lived with Pogue the first winter after they arrived here. At this early date and for several years afterward no village existed, nor was thought of in connection with the present site of Clyde.

quire into the early settlement of this immediate neighborhood, although, first let us note the fact that the Pogue farm eventually fell in equal shares to Lyman F. Miller and Geo. R. Brown, the latter of whom had married Mr. Pogue's daughter and was by them laid out into village lots.

A few settlers preceded Benton, locating along the ridges (then Indian trails), which extend through this vicinity. One of their number, Samuel Baker, Sr., erected a cabin near the present site of the Baker schoolhouse in 1818. He was, it is claimed, the first settler in Green Creek Township. Among the early settlers of the vicinity was Norton Russell, who in 1828 accompanied by James Birdseve, father of Nathan and Joseph Birdseye, William McPherson, father of General McPherson, and Lyman Babcock came on foot from Canandaigua, New York, and located along the North Ridge, then the principal Indian trail leading from Fort

Seneca to Portland, now Sandusky. Mr. McPherson erected a frame building on this place, one of the first, if not the first, in Green Creek Township. The building was long since removed. An orchard now graces the spot, and it was here the illustrious soldier, Gen. James Birdseye McPherson was born. The trail near which the house stood was frequented by Indians who journeyed, at least, once a year from the reservations in the vicinity of Fort Seneca to Portland, to receive from the Canadian Government, in consideration of the terms of some treaty, a tribute consisting mostly of blankets, trinkets, etc. An Indian chief, while on one of these missions, stopped at the McPherson dwelling. He looked with great interest at the pale-faced babe, and consolingly to the mother said, *Him make big, big man."

Jonathan Rathbun, father of Chaplin Rathbun, and grandfather of Saxton Rathbun, settled in 1820 upon a tract of land now known as the Persing farm.

The following year, 1821, Samuel McMillen located upon lands, a part of which are now in the west part of the village. He was the father of Henry McMillen, well known here in early days, and of Mrs. Norton Russeli. Dr. Forbes, Seth Murray and Luther Porter in 1822, settled within or near the present limits of the village. The latter two were acquaintances of Norton Russell and left Canandaigua at the same time that Mr. Russell and his three companions did, but they came in a wagon drawn by horses and therefore arrived here a few days sooner than did the Russell party. The same year brought Oliver Comstock. In 1823 Elisha Babcock settled on Butternut Ridge near the present site of Lay's corners. The following year Chaplin Rathbun and family, including Saxton S. Rathbun, moved from New York to Green Creek Township. In 1824 Mr. Guinall, father of James Guinall, lived in a log house near the present McPherson residence in Clyde. Clark Cleveland, uncle to Clark R. Cleveland, lived on the farm now occupied by Thomas Simmons, about one and one-half miles west of the village. William Hamer, afterwards known as the founder of Hamer's corners, lived on an eighty-acre tract of land, in southwest quarter of Section 20, Green Creek Township. His house was located south of the present Sand Ridge Road, about fifty rods, near an Indian trail. Josiah Rumery lived near the present site of Mr. Huber's residence. He owned and operated a water-power saw-mill and "Corn-cracker," which were located near by. We are unable to give the exact date that Guinall, Cleveland, Hamer and Rumery settled in Green Creek Township, but it was prior to 1824. Adam Smith settled in the township in 1824. At this time the Western Reserve and Maumee Turnpike was not constructed and travelers going east or west were compelled to take a very circuitous route. The trail on which Samuel Baker's house was located had now become the regular line of travel between York's Crossroads (Bellevue) and Lower Sandusky. Mr. Baker therefore converted his cabin into a tavern and kept liquor for sale, as did all taverns at that time. It is said, however, that the Indians were his best customers at the bar. FIRST ELECTION.

At the first election, April, 1822, John Pumphrey, Samuel Kepler and Samuel S. Baker served as judges, and Jared H. Miner and Isaac Hines as clerks. Seventeen votes were cast and the following officers were elected: Trustees, Samuel S. Baker, Josiah Rumery and Samuel Pogue; clerk, Jared H. Miner; treasurer, Silas Dewey; constable, Benjamin Collins; appraisers of property, Samuel S. Baker and Samuel Pogue. The poll sheet contains the following names: Josiah Rummery, Samuel McMillan, Caleb Rice, Silas Dewey, Joseph Baite, Samuel Pogue, Francis McNutt, John Pumphrey, David Cochran, Samuel S. Baker, Jesse Benton, Samuel Kepler, Samuel Utley, J. H. Miner, Levi Tuttle, Isaac Hines and B. Collins.

These schools from the time of separation of Clyde as a district, as well as before, have been well supported by the erection of buildings and the employment of competent teachers. The district has ten sub-districts, requiring ten teachers to supply the schools, costing for the years 1907-1908 including $100 for supervision, $3,700. The schools are re-

Small Fruits And Cabbages

The soil of the township, especially west and southwest from Clyde is noted for its adaptability to the cultivation of small fruits of all kinds that grow in this northern climate. It is estimated that within the township there are approximately 2,000 acres of land devoted to small fruits, including cherries. It is equally noted for its immense cabbage crops, and a conservative estimate places the cabbage crop, annually, at 4,000 acres. Other parts are equally fertile for standard agricultural products.

Robinson Kraut Company of Green Spring, Green Creek Township, was established in 1895, the plant being located on the Nickel Plate Railroad. It produces between fifteen thousand and twenty thousand barrels of "White Vine Kraut" annually, and is a flourishing concern. Harry W. Robinson is president.

W. F. Huber's Steam Saw-mill is one of the important manufacturing enterprises of Green Creek Township. It is located on the Green Springs Road, about six miles east of Fremont. Mr. Huber started the business soon after the Civil War, in which he was a participant. Upon returning home at the close of that struggle he purchased fifty acres of the farm he now owns in this township and established a saw-mill, later buying the water privilege from a Mr. Smith. At first he rented the water-mill but later purchased it. About four years afterwards it was destroyed by fire and he then, in partnership with Mr. N. E. Ellsworh, established the steam-mill which is now in operation. After awhile he purchased the interest of his partner and since then has conducted the business alone, employing some five men. He has been highly successful; has added to his landed property, and in addition to his milling interests has been largely engaged in farming.

Green Spring

lage, of about one thousand inhabitants counting both sides of the county line, dividing the same between Sandusky and Seneca Counties. It is on the line of and at the crossing of the Big-Four and Nickel Plate Railroads. The celebrated mineral springs known as Green Spring is near this village, an account of which has been given in a former chapter. The Oak Ridge Sanitarium is at this spring. The village has churches, good schools and school buildings. A bank, newspaper, hotels, a large shipping business of live stock and grain is carried on here. The tax duplicate (in Sandusky County) is $80,075.

The Village -Of Clyde

Among the first to embark in the building up a village at the place was William McPherson ; he was a blacksmith by trade, and opened a shop soon after the pike was graded, and did a thriving business in this line for a few years, and thereafter engaged in the dry goods trade and other enterprises which contributed to the welfare of the community. William Hamer also became a resident about 1828; he purchased of William McPherson the triangular shaped tract of land, bounded at present by the pike on the northwest, by Maple Street on the southeast, and by Main Street on the west, and at once erected a commodious log building, and for a number of years the place was known by the name of Hamer's Corners.. The 'tavern was a two-story, hewed-log structure, about 30 feet in length and 26 feet in width, an addition in the rear containing the dining room; the main part of the building stood with its side fronting the pike, and its lower story was divided by a log partition into two rooms, one of which was used as a sitting-room, and the other for a bar-room and office; the latter was provided with a large open fireplace and a sideboard well stocked with old-time untaxed whiskey. With the increased emigration from the Eastern States, which soon followed, this business of entertaining travelers was very re- munerative. Mr. Hamer was a very amiable landlord, and successfully managed the hotel until about 1838, when he retired from the occupation.

Another name deserving of mention in connection with the early history of the corners, is that of Wesley Anderson. Mr. Anderson about 1830, erected a large, frame hotel at the cross roads two miles east of Hamer's Corners (the building was afterwards owned by. Nathan Birdseye), where he kept a hotel and store a year or two, and then sold out and came to Hamer's Corners, and engaged in keeping store in a frame building which he erected, and is the oldest one remembered on.the pike. Another. man who identified himself with the movement to establish a-town at the corners was Cornell Bradley. He built the first frame hotel building, and kept hotel therein a few years - the house was afterwards successfully managed by Mr. Corbett, Roswell George (father of Joseph George), Daniel Boyd, William Boyd and Isaac Sparks. Another early settler was Reuben Bolls. He built the first

Others among the early settlers and business men: Robert McElhany, Thomas Wikes, Mr. Booth, Dr. Forbes, Spicer and VanDercook, Elan Ames, Dr. Henry Niles, Dr. Henry H. Treadway, Dr. Seely, Dr. Wm. G. Harkness, father of Darwin E. Harkness. The latter was also one of the business men of Hamer's Corners in 1838. He erected the brick block which yet remains on the pike, the most expensive and substantial building that Hamer's Corners could boast of. He was postmaster next after William McPherson. The succeeding postmasters have been Jacob McCleary, D. E. Harkness, J. W. Wales, W. H. Reynolds, J. B. Bush, J. P. Fish, J. B. Fellows, R. B. Mc- Pherson, Mrs. Z. Perrin, Chas. H. McCleary. Louis Hock, C. L. Dirlam, B. F. Jackson and C. D. Tiffany - the incumbent. P. B. 'Beery, late known as a prominent New York wholesale merchant, carried on a store at the corners in 1851; Dr. C. G. Eaton was engaged in the drug business there about the same time.

A\ line of post-coaches was established, with the pike as a route, about 1832; two coaches, drawn by four horses ran each way daily, and these were the only public means of conveyance prior to the building of the railroads.

The name of the town seems to have been in some doubt about 1852; the plats recorded by Hamer and Beery are designated "additions to Centerville ;" the one recorded by Brown is headed by the words, "addition to Clyde." J. L. Ames made an addition to the village the following spring, and the record of the plat shows it to be an addition to Centerville. The controversy concerning the name was, at least partially, settled about 1852 at a meeting held at Whitcher's hotel. It was attended by perhaps fifteen citizens, among whom were Doctor Treadway, O. P. Woodward, Lyman Miller, E. B. Whitcher, Robert Clapp, A. G. Perry and William Hamer. The question of adopting a name was discussed, and several names were suggested, among which were the names Ayer, Plainville, Livonia and Clyde. The latter was proposed by Mr. Woodward, who had been a resident of Clyde, New York, and it was finally adopted, and soon thereafter was accepted by the people generally.

The competition of the railroads was the herald of a new order of things; two hotels were immediately erected at the crossing of the roads. In a few months a village had sprung into existence at this point; it grew rapidly, and the business houses were moved to the new site, and soon Hamer's Corners became a thing of the past. The town was incorporated as a village March 8, 1866; John M. Lemmon was elected its first mayor; Z. Perrin, C. G. Eaton, Milo Hunter, John Lefever, A. B. French and W. W. Wales were chosen members of the first council. The village of Clyde contains over three thousand inhabitants. In point of wealth, business and population, it ranks next to the county seat.

tvde is the center of a rich farming countrv and fruit growing district, the soil of which is very diversified in its character and adapted to a great variety of products. For this reason, principally, the town has experienced a steady and permanent growth. It has three steam railroads and one electric railroad, passing through the village. The post office receives twelve daily mails and dispatches eleven. There are five rural delivery routes from the office, with 632 homes supplied with mail boxes, serving a rural population of 2,500 inhabitants.

Water-Works

A special act of the Legislature passed March 15, 1883, authorized the submission to the voters of the April election following, of the question of issuing $20,000 corporate bonds for the construction of a system of public waterworks. This vote was taken, a majority of ninety-seven votes being in favor of the project.

May 29, 1883, the council by ordinance formally provided for the construction of public water-works. July 17th, a second ordinance directed the issue and sale of $20,000 in bonds, the full amount authorized. June 25, 1883, the first election for trustees of the water-works was held; H. B. Tiffany, A. C. Keating and W. H. Kauffman were chosen. July gth bids for construction were advertised for, to be opened and awarded August 13th. There was a large number of bids, but not all were satisfactory, and only a portion of the work was let. August 24th the council by resolution authorized the trustees to contract without further advertising, which was done on favorable terms, and the work was soon thereafter begun.

December 18, 1883, the works were put in operation, and since that time have been kept going without serious interruption and at very moderate cost for repairs.

With Raccoon Creek, the water of which largely from springs and very pure and soft, three flowing artesian fountains, and the supply from the moist quicksand to the westward of Raccoon and the great storage capacity of the reservoirs, it is fair to presume that no shortage in supply can occur.

Methodist Church

Methodism in this vicinity began as an organized church in the year 1820. Previous to this prayer meetings were held by a few who belonged to the church before settling here. This place was included in the Lower Sandusky District, and in the year 1821, Rev. Boardman organized the church here. The class consisted of six, viz: Samuel McMillan and wife, James Guinall and wife, and Albert Guinall and wife. Preaching was held in a log schoolhouse once in four weeks, usually on week days.

In 1827, under the preaching of Presiding Elder McMahan, John Hazzard and Adam Poe, preachers, a revival occurred, and about twenty-five united with the church, Norton Russell being the first convert; his wife, and sister (Mrs. McPherson) were also converted at that time. In 44 there was a great awakening in the church, especially among the young people ; numbers united with the church, among them was James B. McPherson. Also a number of young men, some of whom became respected ministers. In 18s1 the society decided to build a church. Accordingly the first Methodist Church was built; the lot on Duane Street was donated-by Tonathan Ames. Rev. George Eaton was preacher in charge, his health failing, Alfred Wheeler supplied him, Rev. Day assistant. The church was finished, furnished and dedicated the last day of December, 1852. Presiding Elder Disboro preached the dedicatory sermon. The whole cost was fifteen hundred and thirty dollars ($1,530). In 1866 the officials decided to build a new church (J. S. Broadwell, pastor) ; the membership of the church at that time was 145. Two lots on the corner of George and Buckeye Streets were purchased at a cost of $1.150. In February, 1867, the basement was ready, and the congregation used it until the audience room should be ready. Work was continued on the church, and it was dedicated in August, 1867. Thirty-seven hundred dollars was subscribed, enough it was then supposed to pay the debt; however, the church was not completed, neither the spire nor gallery were built, and on com- pletion of the whole, and a failure on the part of the subscribers to pay, it was found to be in debt. Rev. E. Y. Warner was pastor in 67. In '68 Rev. W. S. Paul was pastor and was returned in 1869 and '70. During his pastorate arrangements were perfected with the Messrs. Remington of Ilion, New York, and money borrowed without interest being charged to pay the church debt, which was then on interest. In the winter of '71, the pastor resigned his charge, and B. Wright supplied his place. Fall of '71 Rev. G. H. Hartupee became pastor. In the spring following the church debt was so large that it was resolved to try and raise a part of it. Bishop Bowman was called and preached, a subscription was taken and several thousand dollars promised, but a failure on the part of subscribers to pay again left the church in debt, and though considerable reduction was made, the indebtedness continued burdensome. In '74 and '75 the debt was somewhat reduced. Yet in the fall of '75 they were still $4,250 in debt, and Rev. J. W. Mendenhall, who had become the pastor, labored zealously and awakened among the members a lively interest in the welfare of the church, resulting in the cancellation of the entire remaining debt The event was celebrated by a jubilee meeting. Rev. W. H. Painter succeeded as pastor in 1878. He was succeeded by Rey. B. J. Hoadley, who served as pastor until the fall of 1882. Rev. G. W. Ball was the next pastor of the Clyde congregation; he served two years. Rev. O. Badgley succeeded Rev. Mr. Ball. The following pastors have served in the order named after Mr. Ball: Revs. G. L. Hanawalt, C. F. Johnson,: Win. Kepler: 3.) §. ivMeConmeti, ier L: Stewart, P. B. Stroupe and R. F. Mayer.

St. Mary'S Cilurch

The few Catholics in and about Clyde were attended in the early days by priests from Fremont and Bellevve. As erriv as 1853 mass was celebrated by Rev. Thomas Walsh of Fre- spot now occupied by the L. S. & M. S. Ry. freight depot. Rev. John Rose while pastor at St. Joseph's, Fremont, from 1856 to 1859, occasionally attended Clyde, but Rev. L. Molon, also of Fremont, had full charge of this mission. From 1854 to 1859 he came every four weeks and said mass in private houses. In the latter year he purchased an acre of ground and began the erection of the frame church. This was completed in the following year under the direction of Rev. G. Peter and was solemnly blessed by Right Rev. Bishop Rappe in May or June. On the same occasion the cemetery which surrounds the church was consecrated. In 1862 Rev. James Manahan, then stationed at Bellevue, took charge of the congregation. He said mass in Clyde every Sunday, driving from Bellevue for the purpose until August, 1866, when he was succeeded by Rev. T. M. Mahoney. Father Mahoney purchased a very desirable corner lot adjoining the church property, intending that when the congregation became sufficiently large, a substantial new church should be built thereon. He was succeeded, at Bellevue, in August, 1871, by Rev. E. Mears, who continued to visit Clyde regularly until August, 1872, when Rev. J. D. Bowles was appointed first resident pastor of Clyde. During the administration of Father Bowles the pastoral residence was purchased at a cost of $1,600. An addition to serve as a vestry was put to the church and several minor improvements were made. In January, 1875, Rev. G. P. Rudolph took charge and remained until March, 1879. Rey. F. X. Nunan was next pastor until July 25, 1881. From this time the congregation was attended by Rev. John T. Cahill, then stationed at Bellevue, until September, 1881, when he became resident pastor at Clyde. He was succeeded April 29, 1883, by Rev. A. E. Manning. The foundation of a new church was laid during the spring and early summer of 1886, and the corner stone put in place by Rev. Bishop Gilmour, Sunday, July 4th, of that year. The edifice was completed in due time thereafter. The present pastor is Rev. Father Quinn. BAPTIST CHURCH. There were a few Baptists among the early settlers of the township. Jared H. Miner, Esq., had meetings at his house occasionally, and Elder Thorp sometimes exhorted. Missionaries held services at irregular intervals, and in 1857 a house of worship was built. The first organization into a congregation was effected April 9, 1859, at which time L. D. Caulkins was chosen clerk; Gideon Palmer, Lyman Ames and George N. Thornton, trustees; An- . son Ames was also a member at this time. Joseph Jackson was chosen pastor. In August, 1864, a pastor was called, Rev. Adam Snyder ; he was a strong preacher, and attracted large congregations. In May, 1866, Rev. W. E. Lyon became pastor and served the church with success. Rev. T. J. Shepperd succeeded to the pastorate, and remained between one and two years. Rev. J. V. K. Seeley assumed charge in November, 1872, and during his term of five years' service added about forty to the membership. In 1868 Rev. Fernald became pastor and remained two years. The greatest revival in the history -of the church was held during this pastorate by an evangelist, Rev. W. H. Hulburt. More than one hundred were converted, and eightyfour joined the church. Rev. J. L. Philips was installed pastor in August, 1880; he remained about two years; many additions were made to the church during his term of service. In August, 1883, he was succeeded by Rev. J. M. Davies. The writer is without further facts, except that a new and commodious house of worship has been erected and the present pastor is Rev. A. M. Dixon, who succeeded Rev. J. H. Hollingsworth.

United Brethren Church

Prior to 1865 the services of Clyde congregation, of the United Brethren in Christ, were held at the house of Rev. Daniel Smith, west of the village on the Maumee Turnpike, on what is known as the John Chamberlain farm. In 1865 the present house of worship on Duane Street was purchased from the Methodists, who moved to their new house on Buckeye Street. At this time, and until 1866, Clyde was one of the five charges comprising Flat Rock Circuit; in that year the other four charges became Flat Rock Mission, and Clyde was made

Preachers in charge from 1866 have been Michael Long, M. Bulger, D. G. Ogden, W. P. Dickens, S. H. Raudebaugh, S. S. Essex, H. F. Hartzell, D. S. Caldwell, Geo. Bender, C. E. Ruddick, J. W. Eastman, V. French, A. W. Keesey, R. G. Miller, Samuel H. Brake, A. C. Blake, J. W. Eastman.

Presbyterian Church

The Presbyterian congregation, of Clyde, was formally organized in the Baptist meetinghouse, April 6, 1867; Doctor Bushnell, of Fremont, and Geo. H. Fullerton, of Huron, being present. At the meeting the following persons were received as members: Dr. J. W. Luse, Mrs. E. C. Luse, Hiram Vincent, Adam Dunlap, Mrs. Kate B. Dunlap, Mrs. Margaret Luse, Mrs. Emily Fletcher, Mrs. Jane Thorpe, Mrs. C. Loveland, George B. Fuller and Mrs. Alcina Ellsworth. The first regular service of the church was held on the following day, conducted by Doctor Bushnell, who preached and administered the sacrament. Rev. J. B. Smith was the first minister chosen; he preached at stated intervals for two years. In 1869 D. W. Marvin succeeded to the pastorate, and in the winter of that year initiatory steps were taken toward the building of a house of worship. A comfortable brick house was erected on Forest Street, near Main, and dedicated January 30, 1870. A Sabbath school was organized about that time and has since, excepting a short interval, been maintained. In 1872 Rev. E. R. Chase was regularly installed pastor. The church was greatly strengthened by a revival in the winter of 1873. Mr. Chase was beloved by all, and the church prospered under his care, but he was not long spared in his chosen field of labor. A disease of the lungs, contracted in the army, brought him to an untimely death, May 25, 1874, at the age of 34 years. Rev. A. M. Meili, formerly a priest in the Roman Catholic Church, was elected to the pastorate in March, 1875. Owing to complications which arose he resigned in 1876, and all services, including Sunday school and prayer meeting, were for a time suspended. The prayer meet- ings and Sunday school were, however, soon re-organized and the general church work again set on foot. About 1878 Rev. J. S. Axtell was employed as pastor, and he continued to act as such until 1883. Rev. H. P. Barnes succeeded him as pastor, and remained until the fall of 1885; he was an able and popular man, and did much toward the welfare of the congregation. Rev. R. J. Smith, a student of Oberlin College, supplied the pulpit till 1888. Rev. D. Street became pastor next and served till the spring of 1889, when he was succeeded by Rev. Geo. E. Wilson until 1898, when D. Irvin Conkle was pastor until 1902. Then Rev. R. W. Kohr took charge as pastor and served until 1909 and has just been succeeded by the present pastor, Rev. E. A. Miller.

In 1891 the church was remodeled and greatly enlarged, at a cost of $8,000, of which amount the Sundav school of the church raised and paid $1,000. The superintendents of the Sunday school have been G. S. Richards, W. G. Estill and A. L. Gautz, the latter now serving.

Grace Protestant Episcopal Church

The Protestant Episcopal is the youngest of the religious organizations of Clyde. Its beginning was in 1875. Rev. W. W. Earr and Rev. A. B. Nicholas, at the time rectors, respectively, of Grace and Calvary parishes, Sandusky, were spending an afternoon in Clyde, waiting for a train to get home. They went about the village hunting up such persons as had been members of the Episcopal Church in other places, and arranged for a series of services to be held on Friday evening of each week. These services were begun at Good Templar's Hall, in Kline's Block; clergymen from Norwalk, Monroeville, Bellevue, Fremont and Tiffin alternating in conducting them. In 1879, when the lodge of Good Templars dissolved and gave up their hall, the use of the Presbyterian Church edifice was secured, and clergymen from Fremont and Bellevue held afternoon services there on alternate Sundays. About this time a Sunday school was organized. In 1882 it was determined to change the hour for services to the forenoon, and to hold them every Sunday. The Universalist Church building, which was not then in use, was rented, and

A formal organization was made in May, 1879, and the name Grace Church adopted. About 1884, the Universalists desiring to again use their house, the Episcopal people moved to Delfantelian Hall, in Hirschberger's Block, and there remained until their own new and modern house of worship, since erected on Buckeye Street, could be used. This was first occupied May 21, 1886, on the occasion of the annual visitation of the bishop of the diocese. Work on it had commenced in October, 1885. The audience room is 50x30, with arched and vaulted roof and commodious chancel, nave for choir, and vestry room in addition to the audience room. Services are held every Sunday morning at 10:30, Sunday school at noon, and a 5 o'clock afternoon service is in contemplation. The growth of membership has been regular and steady, and it now has ceased to be a mission, and is served by a rector as a parish in connection with St. Paul's Episcopal Church of Bellevue.

Universalist Church

The first Universalist congregation in this vicinity was organized by Rev. George R. Brown about 1835. The membership increased rapidly, and soon thereafter the organization was enabled, with the help of contributions generously made by the public, to build a substantial frame meeting-house. The building was the first place of worship erected in this neighborhood. Rev. Brown, assisted by supplies, continued to administer to the spiritual needs of the congregation until 1864. He was succeeded by Elder J. F. Rice, who served the congregation three years. In 1872 Rev. N. Crary became the regular pastor, and continued as such for one year. He was succeeded by Rev. Soule. Rev. C. A. Lander was employed as pastor in 1876, and served till August of that year, when he resigned, and was succeeded by Rey. J. P. McLean. The next regular installed pastor was Rev. W. P.Burnell; he served the congregation from 1882 to 1885, inclusive. From this latter date until January, 1887, no minister was regularly employed, and services were had by supplies for a time, but finally services were permanently discontinued.

wife, Mrs. Jacob McCleary, Mrs. Clough, Mrs. Nathan Birdseye and daughter; Mr. Birdseye became a member of the church sometime after its organization, and contributed largely towards its support - the lot occupied by the church being a gift from him. The church property was sold to the Lutheran Church, which is one of the church societies of the village known as St. Paul's Lutheran, Rev. L. F. Freyberg, pastor.

St. Paul Lutheran

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN was organized by Rev. G. A. Harter in 1887, who was succeeded by Rev. J. J. Allwardt and he by the present pastor. This church is served in connection with the Adam's and Zion's congregations in Seneca County.

The Seventh Day Adventist Church, of Clyde, was organized by Elder J. H. Waggoner, August 11, 1867. O. F. Gilford was chosen elder, and William Herald deacon, and ordained by Elder Waggoner at that time. The organization built a house of worship in 1877-78. Its location is on Washington Avenue, near Vine Street. The house was dedicated by Elder Waggoner January 20, 1878. Elder H. A. St. John was the next pastor; he was succeeded by Elder E. H. Gates. Elder W. J. Stone next served the congregation as pastor. There is no regular pastor now serving this church.

Patriotic And Fraternal Orders

Monticello Lodge, F. & A. Masons, No. 244, was first organized by W. M. Harrison, C. G. Eaton, Jacob McCleary, G. R. Brown, J. N. Russell, J. W. Forster, William Hamer, W. S. Russell and Henry Burdick, December 3, 1853. The meetings of the lodge as an organization were held in the old Norton Russell house on the pike until Dr. Eaton erected a building for a drug store with an upper hall, where lodge met until 1855. It then moved to a brick building erected by Jordan & Harkness, where it remained until 1860, when it removed to the third story o fthe brick building northeast corner Main and Duane Streets. In 1874 it moved to the Richard's Block. The first officers of the lodge were: W. M. Harrison, W. M.; C. G. Eaton, S. W.; Jacob McCleary, J. W.; W. Hamer, treasurer; W. S. Russell, secsetary. 1. BR. Beery. >, U5 W. Hinton: J.-D: Robert Clapp, tyler.

f.0.0.F. Clyde Lodge, No. 380;"wae organized in 1866. The charter members were MM. Bennery G.B,. Fuller, R: Fo Patrick, SM. Reynolds, Josiah Barnett, A. N. Taylor, G. F. Bell, Geo. Smith, Peter Upp, Dr. W. W. Stilson, A. P. Smith, B. R. Bacon, J. McMartin, John McMartin, W. W. Whitton and Geo. R. Brown.

I.O.Q.F. Earl Encampment, No. 105, is 4 higher branch, or upper house, of Odd Fellowship. This encampment was organized in 1868 with M. Benner, E. F. Gettins, Henry Baker, H. Grabach and G. B. Fuller as charter members.

Daughters of Rebekah. Charity Lodge, No. 18, D. of R., was organized May 12, 1870, with the following charter members: Henry Baker and wife, N. H. Taylor and wife, G. S. Rhoades and wife, E. T. Gettins and wife, H. Nichols and wife, M. Benner, R. F. Patrick, H. T. Barnum, J. W. Foster and J. J. Nichols.

Knights of Pythias. Clyde Lodge, No. 126, K. of P., was instituted January 13, 1881, by D. G. C., D. M. Lazerus, with twenty-eight charter members, occupying the I. O. O. F. Lodge rooms. An interest and enthusiasm was manifest from the first, in the completeness and thoroughness of conferring the several ranks, as well as in the acquisition of new members, the roster showing 105 initiations in 1885, at which time they moved into quarters of their own, in the third story of the brick block on northeast corner of Main and Duane Streets.

I. O. G. T. Eureka Lodge, No. 115, was organized August 7, 1883, with 32 charter members. The name was changed November, 1886, to Peerless Lodge. 'The officers at date of organization were: B. F. Rogers, C. T.; Mrs. E. D. Soper, V. T.; W. P. Burnell, chaplain; H. A. Tiffany, secretary; Edward Tea, assistant secretary; W. L. Stark, F. S.; E. W. Cooke, treasurer; V. L. Everett, Mar.; Mrs. L. E. Hoch, D. M.; Albert Cowell, I. G.; C. Breckenridge, O. G.; Mrs. B. B. Rogers, R. S.; Nettie Reynolds. L. S.; G. D. Nichols, P. ns 5

O.C. F. Clyde Council, No. 70, Order of Chosen Friends, was organized December 9, 1886, and although the youngest order among the many now flourishing in Clyde, it bids fair to rival some of the older ones in popularity and strength.

H. Miner taught school in 1820, a cooper shop which stood on a site now included in the Persing farm was used as a schoolhouse. The data regarding the location of the first schoolhouse is somewhat conflicting, but it is quite certain that about 1825 a log schoolhouse was built near the corners, and was shortly afterward burnt down; soon thereafter a second log house was erected near the present site of the Lake Shore depot, but was after a short time moved to the knoll, near the present burial place of General McPherson. 'That was the last log schoolhouse erected in the vicinity. July 1, 1826, the trustees established the first school districts in the township; these districts, four in number, comprised the whole of the township, and contained sixty-three inhabitants. As the population increased the original districts were subdivided and new ones formed. In 1840 eleven districts had been established. A township board of education was organized. The creation of this board marked a new era in the history of the public schools. Thereafter large sums of money were levied, good schoolhouses were provided, and the schools have since been maintained in a very prosperous condition. The present village district was originally subdistrict number 7. About 1840 a f:ame schoolhouse was erected in this district. The construction of the Sandusky City & Indiana Railroad in 1852, necessitated its removal; its location was changed to Buckeye Street, where it was used until the erection of a brick school building, now a part of Kline's Block, on Main Street, in 1854. The cost of this building was about five thousand dollars. The number of pupils in the district at that time was 206 and in the township 785, including above number. Regular courses of study for the scholars, including all the common branches, vocal music, natural, mental and moral philosophy, chemistry, rhetoric, astronomy, geology and zoology, were adopted by the township board April 19, 1858. The village schools were held in the Main Street building until the erection of the present Union School building - completed in 1870. In 1867 the school propnertv and money belonging to sub-district 7, was turned over to the Clvde district by the township board. The first election in this district was held April 8, 1867. «A. B. French, Chester Hunter and C. G. Eaton were chosen directors. The union school law governing cities and villages having been adopted on May 30, 1868, an election for members of a school board was held, resulting in the choice of M. Benner, John Lefever, Milo Hunter, S. D. Terrill, S. B. Taylor and Smith Motley. The offices of the directors of the district were thus terminated and all property was turned over to the board of education. Under its management the present schoolhouse was erected. The building and grounds cost about forty thousand dollars, and were long ago entirely paid for. The superintendents of the village school since 1856, have been J. F. Martin, Wm. Russell, S. Motley, W. W. Ross, W. H. Rayle;.C...H.. Roberts; F. M. Ginny tomer Mitzgar, George M. Hoke, W. L. Fulton, A. H. Wicks and A. L. Gautz.

The first class, four in number, graduated in 1875. The graduates from the high school number, boys 94, girls 246, total 340. An Alumni Society was organized in 1877 and meetings are held annually with a reunion and banquet, well attended.

The enrollment of the schools of Clyde are as follows: Elementary, boys 220, girls 219; high school, boys 43, girls 59, total 541. Number of teachers necessary to supply the high school 4, elementary 11, total 15; and the cost of tuition, including supervision, for the year ending August 31, 1908, was $7,715.

First and foremost was the late James A. Wales, of New York City, one of the founders of the comic weekly, Judge. He was one of the pioneer cartoonists of the country and his untimely death a few years ago cut short a most promising career.

Miss Elizabeth Tuck, of Chicago, is a former Clyde girl, having been born and raised south of that place. When a school teacher she commenced her artistic training, pursuing her studies abroad and has achieved a high degree of success in the realm of art.

Lee Stanley, cartoonist on the Cleveland Press, is another Clyde boy. His work is familiar to all readers. Although scarcely twenty-one he is doing excellent work.

L. J. Haff, of Cleveland, fashion artist with the Scripps-McRae League, which controls nearly thirty papers in various parts of the country, is another Clyde boy.

Business Enterprises

Clyde's factories and business concerns are numerous and prosperous, among which a few are here mentioned. The banks and the press and library have been given in other chapters.

The Clyde Cooperage Company. The plant of this concern covers three acres of land along the Wheeling & Lake Erie and the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railways and gives employment to about fifty men. The present manager is Joseph A. Walde, who has acted in that capacity since 1902, at which time he succeeded a son of Jacob Sherrer, one of the founders. The concern manufactures about six hundred barrels per day, getting the timber from their own forests in West Virginia, and

Clyde Produce Company. The factory of this concern is situated on East Buckeye Street, Clyde, the capacity of the plant being 150 cars per year of their special product, 'Pride of Clyde Kraut." The business was purchased several years ago from O. M. Mallernee by Henry H. Parker, its present manager. After conducting it along for a year, Mr. Parker in 1907 formed a stock company and has since continued as manager. Employment is given to thirty-five men and the business is one of Clyde's most beneficial enterprises.

The Ciyde Floral Company is a prosperous concern conducted by Reginald C. Arlin, a well known florist of Clyde. Mr. Arlin came to Clyde in 1902 and purchased the greenhouses of O. P. Horton, on Maple Street, which he conducted for five years. He had at that location six greenhouses, 60x15 feet, but in 1907 he found it necessary to secure more commodious quarters. He accordingly. purchased 13% acres along the electric railroad from Mr. N. Finch and has erected six greenhouses, four of which are 21x100 feet in dimensions and two I1x100 feet. He conducts a general greenhouse business and has two cut-flower stores, one in Fremont and the other at Bellevue.

The. Hughes Granite & Marble Company, of Clyde, has been established here as an important industry for a number of years. James B. King, a sculptor of fine ability, is a member of the firm. Mr. King came to Clyde in 1900 and was selected by the company then existing to make the models for the Ohio Monument commemorating the Battle of Shiloh. Soon afterward he became a partner in the concern and in 1907 the firm name was adopted as it is at present. The plant gives employment to thirty-five men and is the largest establishment of its kind in the Middle West.

Ames Publishing Company, of Clyde, was established in 1870 by the late Albert Ames, a former proprietor of the Clyde Sentinel. The concern is engaged in the publication of plays and other theatrical books and literature, being one of the seven houses of this kind in the United States. Mr. Ames directed the business until his death in October, 1887. The present proprietor is Mr. C. E. Lewis.

The Jackson Manufacturing Company established by A. H. Jackson, of Fremont, as a branch of his immense underwear factory there is one of the valuable plants of Clyde, furnishing as it does employment to about seventy-five women.

Nurseries. The two noted and extensive nurseries of A. B. French and G. S. Pickett are located here and for many years have done a highly satisfactory and prosperous business. The floral house of W. FE. Hall is a well established concern. It is known as the "Carnationry."

Grain Elevators. There are two of these in Clyde, that of Comstock & Slessman and of G. M. Benfer, both having been doing business for many years.

Elmore Manufacturing Company, of Clyde. This flourishing concern is engaged in the manufacture of the Elmore automobile, one of the leading and standard machines now on the market, which has successfully stood severe tests. The president of the company is Mr. Harmon V. Becker, who was formerly engaged in the manufacture of the Elmore bicycle. He came to Clyde in 1894 and two years later began the manufacture of the Elmore automobile under the firm name of the Elmore Manufacturing Company. Since then the business has so increased that it has been necessary to enlarge the plant from time to time. Two hundred men are now employed and the company will manufacture approximately about one thousand machines during the year 1909.

Clyde Kraut Company. This concern, which is one of great importance to the farmers of Clyde and the vicinity, was established in 1890 by Alonzo J. Wilder, who for a time conducted it with his brother Nathan T. Wilder, under the above firm name. The business gradually grew to large proportions and in 1896 some changes were made in the composition of the firm. In 18g0 it was incorporated with the following officers, which today constitute its official board: A. J. Wilder, president; Nathan T. Wilder, vice-president ; W. W. Wilder, secretary and treasurer. The plant is the largest in the United States for the manufacture of kraut, the capacity being 1,000 pounds per day, and employment being given to 100 men. Good shipping facilities are furnished by the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern and the Big Four Railroads. A branch house for the manufacture of kraut and pickles has been established at Jackson, Michigan. The registered trade-mark of the company's product is a Silver Fleece. The excellence of the goods has gained for them a reputation all over the world.

This township was organized in December, 1829, and named for the distinguished Andrew Jackson, then President of the United States. It comprises the Congressional Township 4, in North Range 14 East.. The general surface slope is toward the northeast, the three principal streams, Wolf, Muscallonge and Mud Creeks flowing in that direction. The geological history of this township is deeply interesting, but cannot be fully given here. A belt of boulders across the township marks the path of a moving ice mountain of the "glacial period," which left in its wake these rounded fragments, wrenched from their native ledges, in the far north and here deposited by this mighty ice stream, when it finally melted and its waters receded from off the land. The reader is referred to Chapter I of this volume for a history of this period, where the "Harrison Rock," one of these boulders, is described and illustrated. This rock was named by the editor of this volume, and a brief history written by him some years ago (Ohio Archzological and Historical Publications, Vol. XIV., Pp. 329).

There was an Indian trail leading from Lower Sandusky through what is now Spiegel Grove, the home of the late President Hayes, passing thence west of Sandusky River in a southwesterly direction and intersecting at a point not far east of this rock a similar one from the site of Fort Seneca, and thus becoming united into one trail, passed near the rock in a northeasterly direction to the Maumee River, at the site of Fort Meigs. This became known as the "Harrison Trail" because, in his military movements between the points named, General Harrison made use of it asa military route. On an occasion as tradition, which seems well founded, has it, he with his staff, took mess upon this rock, as upon a table in the wilderness.

This region, eighty years ago an unreclaimed wilderness, will now compare favorably in improvements and wealth with any agricultural district in the country. The first road was cut through the woods in 1828 from Muscaldae HISTORY

The first man to settle here was Peter Stultz in 1828. He was soon followed by his brother Henry. They came here from Franklin County. They settled and built cabins on the banks of the Muscallonge, that being dryer ground than that back from the creek. The sites of these cabins were near to where the present bridge on the Greensburg Road spans the creek.

Gilbreath Stewart probably built the third cabin. It was near what is now the Mud Creek bridge on this road. In the spring of 1829 David Klutz and David Vernon came with their families. John Garn soon followed with his wife Catherine. He built a mill on Mud Creek, which was long ago abandoned. About this time George Overmyer came and soon after him his brother Lewis settled here; they came from Perry County. Daniel Overmyer, son of George, came with his father. He died in 1859 leaving a family of six boys and four girls. John Mooney, John Mowry, Hugh Iams and wife Mary; Michael and EIeazer Shawl, George Gier, Hugh Mitchell, George Roberts, Samuel King, George Camp, Samuel Clinger, the Hite and Winters families, Peter Warner, Peter Whitmore, Andrew Swickard and Henry Havens, the father of Hugh Birchard and the late W. J. Havens, were among the verv early settlers in Jackson Township. Among those who came later and helped to make this former wilderness blossom as the rose. were the Voorhies, Dolls. Mowervys, Iishers, Boors, Nickles. Shales, Vandersalls. Ludwigs, Kolemans, Feasels. Kings, Burgetts, Andreses, Ickeses, Leases and Hoffmans.

Land entries in 1828, 1829, 1830 and 1831 were by the following named persons: Jacob Nyce, Thomas Nicholson, Daniel Tyndall, John Billsland, Smith Clawson, John Custard, J. and H. F. Hartwell, Samuel Henderson, Elizabeth Kendall, Jacob Bruner, Jr., Christian Bruner, John Bruner, C. Cooplin, George Foltz, P. F. Ludwig, Adam Zarung, George Phillips and Samuel Treat.

The first saw-mill was built on the Muscallonge Creek by Henry Stultz and the next by John Garn on Mud Creek; and later the third by Jacob Winters on the Muscallonge, and the fourth by Joshua Smith on that stream. All of these have passed away. 'The first gristmill was erected at Burgoon in 1880.

Religious Societies, Villages, Etc

Among the earlier religious services in the township was preaching at Gilbreath Stewart's house in 1829, where the first sermon is said to have been preached in the township. It was preached by Rev. Jacob Bowlus. Services were also held at the schoolhouse on Mud Creek at the site of the bridge on the pike, held by Jeremiah Brown, and at the barn of Jacob Winters on the Muscallonge. It was in this barn that Michael Long, who afterwards distinguished himself for usefulness, preached his first sermon. In 1840 a meeting house was built in the Mowery neighborhood. In 1866 Eden Chapel was built near Winters Station, which is still occupied by the United Brethren Congregation.

The Evangelicals. Among the early promoters of this faith were John Betts, John Shale, Daniel Mowery, Samuel Leffler, Nicholas Shale, John and Jacob Vandersall, Michael Shaffer, Jacob Harley and Aaron Boraff.

Millersville is a post village on the Pennsylvania Railroad. Peter Miller founded the village, for whom it was named. He was the first postmaster and was succeeded by John Garn. The present postmaster is Elsworth Smith. St. Mary's Catholic Church here is at present in charge of Rev. J. J. Eugster. Among the leading members in the organization of St. Mary's were George and Myron Hoffman, Peter Dolwick, John Kuffler, Loedegar Lehman, Joseph Weil, Casper and Andy Foos, Peter Miller and Maggie Young.

Havens is a hamlet on the Lake Erie & Western Railroad with a grain elevator known as the Havens Farmers' Elevator. Frank Havens was postmaster until the free rural mail delivery superseded the office.

ters, located on the line of railroad then called the Lima & Fremont, now the Lake Erie & Western. <A post-office named Winters was established with David Lemmon, postmaster.

When The Toledo, Tiffin & Eastern Railroad was located, Winters was found to be too far northeast for the crossing of the two roads, which caused the place to be abandoned as a village.

Burgoon was platted where these roads cross and superseded the former village. The village and post-office was named Burgoon in compliment to Isadore H. Burgoon, then superintendent of what is now The Lake Erie & Western Railroad. Burgoon is a pleasant village with railroad facilities furnished by two lines here crossing each other. It has a voting population of 180, three churches - the United Brethren, Zion Evangelical and the Radical United Brethren.

The postmaster is Henry F. Bischoff, who is also a merchant of the village. A rural mail delivery route, No. 1, extends from this postoffice, serving a large rural population. The post-office has five daily mails. The village is supplied with a good school building and with graded schools.

Helena is an incorporated village with a municipal organization and a separate school district. It is composed of territory from both the townships of Jackson and Washington, and is located on the Pennsylvania Railroad. The postmaster is John Spohn. There are three rural! routes from this post-office with 281 boxes, with an area of forty-seven square miles, and serving a population of 1,700 inhabitants. It has a bank, grain elevator and three churches - the Radical U. B., Rev. Mr. Francis, pastor; The St. Peters Reformed. Rev. J. I. Swander, pastor, and the United Brethren, Rev. W. E. Rowe, pastor.

The first schoolhouse in the township was a log building, which stood near the bridge on the present pike. James Drake taught the first school therein. This house was built by es Klutz, Garn and a few others about 1832.

The first schoolhouse and school in the southern part of the township was located on the Muscallonge, in 1834. In 1853 there were five schoolhouses, and at the April meeting of the board of education of that year $83 was appropriated for repairs!

This township is one of the western tier of township of Sandusky County, and is six miles from east to west and four and a half miles wide. It is a portion of country which is tile, since having been thoroughly drained. It was named after President Madison. The first' lands were entered in the years 1830 and 1831. Entries were recorded first in 1835 by John A. Allen, on Section 7, followed by Joel Benton,: and a number of families by the name of Hathaway on Sections 29, 30, 20, 17 and 19. The first actual settler in the township was Henry P. Allen, who came to the township about 1831 and built a cabin on the King farm. He left the country a few years later and was afterward drowned. The second settler of the township and the first one, whose residence was permanent, was David Smith, who married Catherine Blank, by whom a family of seven sons and six daughters were born. He: was the father of Daniel Smith, who died in the township only a few years ago.

David Reeves, a native of New York, who first settled in Columbiana County, and in 1832 came to Madison. Many settlers about this time came from Columbiana County. David

Reeves was the father of Eli Reeves, who will be remembered by all the old settlers and who died August 2, 1897. David Reeves surveyed Madison Township. The Reeves settlement was near the present village of Rollersville.

Jacob Garn, who was born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, in 1799, and who married Elizabeth Bittle in 1824, was one of the early settlers who came to the township in 1833, and remained here until his death in 1879, his wife dying ten years later in 1889. The Garn family consisted of sixteen children, twelve boys and four girls. The children living are Andrew, John, Peter, Samuel, Milton, Daniel, David, Levi, Adam, Eliza and Mrs. Wm. Baker.

Among other early settlers were Abraham Shell, father of Isadore Shell. Josiah Harman, 1833; Benjamin Cramer, 1833; Elias Miller, 1834; Charles Hazelton, 1834. Jermiah King came here in 1834. He was a very useful man in the township and in the county, having been justice of the peace twelve years and county commissioner several years. Peter quite early. Noah P. Hathaway settled in the township in 1858, and a number of his descendants yet live in the township near Rollersville. William Driftmeyer came here in 1842; his son Louis occupies the homestead east of town. John W. Hutchinson settled in the township in 1852. He assisted in building the first frame building in Gibsonburg, the old part of the Methodist Church.

First Election

The first election was held in Jacob Garn's blacksmith shop, July 4, 1833, where it was held for a number of years afterward. The officers chosen were: For justice of the peace, David Smith and John Reed; trustees, James A. Holcomb, Jacob Garn and William Whitford; supervisors, Jesse Johnson, George Ickes and John Reed: treasurer, Daniel McIntosh; constable, William Smith; overseers of the poor, Frederick Clark and Henry P. Allen;

Early Mills

The first saw-mill was built in 1836 on Sugar Creek, and was in charge of Crawford King. The second saw-mill was built by Jacob Garn. Caleb Taylor and William Burkett settled here in 1827. We have confined ourselves to the very earliest of the pioneers, as we have been able to get them.

We have been able to find but little regarding the early history of these schools. It is claimed that the first one was taught by Eliza Davidson in a house on what is known as the Stanerd farm. Daniel Smith also taught in this house in an early day. The schools have, however, kept pace with those of other townships and their condition as shown by the report of August 31, 1908, is as follows:

William H. Gibson, of Tiffin, was the founder of Gibsonburg. After the railroad had been surveyed, General Gibson purchased a tract of ninety acres of land and in the early part of August, 1871, surveyed forty acres of the same into town-lots. Associated with him in laying out the town as first platted and named, August 5, 1871, were T. D. Stevenson and J. F. Yeasting. A post-office was at once secured and T. D. Stevenson commissioned as postmaster. In 1873 he was succeeded by J. F. Dohn, who held the office of postmaster for ten years or more. The first dwelling erected in Gibsonburg was the house owned by Ezra Bell, on Yeasting Street. The second one was built by Thomas Dunlap, on the corner where the German Lutheran parsonage now stands, and he had his blacksmith shop on the corner where the town hall now stands. The old Peter Kemmerling house is quite old, but it was a

The first schoolhouse was built west of the railroad on Madison Street, where some little mounds can be seen. It was a round-log structure and when it became too small another hewed-log schoolhouse was built on the ground now occupied by the large Zorn-Hornung Company store. Later, a frame was built and located on the ground now occupied by the Hotel Wildey. This building was later sold to the Methodists, who occupied it as a church for several years, and later was moved to the present site of the present M. E. Church and is the west part of that structure. After this was sold the school building now owned by the Lutheran congregation was built. In 1894 the present school building was erected at a cost of $16,000.

The first church was erected by the Evangelical people and was built of bass-wood logs, and occupied the site where the bank building now stands. The first business house to be erected was built on the lot where the twostory brick block known as the Wichman Block now stands. It was erected by Henry Wichman. The owner was Joseph Bowers. The first store to locate here was in 1871, by Philip Zorn and Adam Hornung. The Gibsonburg Hotel was built by William H. Gibson and placed in charge of John Patterson. Peter Kemmerling purchased it in 1875 and conducted the hotel for many years. W. H Gibson & Co. built the first lime kiln in 1873, and a second one was built in 1877. Another kiln operated by L. Friar & Co., in which The Zorn-Hornung Company owned a two-thirds interest.

The village was incorporated in the spring of 1880. On the first Monday of April of that year an election was held to choose village officers, which resulted as follows: J. Kininger, mayor; Eli Reeves, J. W. Marvin, Elijah Garn, Charles Sander, T. D. Stevenson and M. W. Hobart were chosen councilmen; S. B. Stilson, clerk; Adam Hornung, treasurer, and George Kaunkle, marshal.

Post-Office

The post-office was established in 1871 and the postmasters have been the following: T. D. Stephenson, C. H. Carter, F. W. Dohn, James M. Ramage, Israel W. Miller, Atwell E. Ferguson, present incumbent.

There are four rural delivery routes from the office, covering about one hundred square miles of territory, with 386 service boxes, serving a population of about fifteen hundred inhabitants.

Church Societies

The Evangelical. The Evangelical Church, corner of Stone and Webster Streets, represents the oldest church society in Gibsonburg. The first church building known as the "basswood church," was built in 1858, and stood on the northwest corner of Main and Madison Streets, where the Gibsonburg bank now is located. This church was dedicated by Bishop Long. Peter Kemmerling, J. F. Suters and John S. Biddle were leading pioneer members of the church.

The present church was built in 1873. Rev. E. Crouse was pastor when the church was begun and Rev. J. H. Strauch at its completion. Rev. A. C. Stull is the present pastor.

Lutheran. The Lutheran Zion's Congregation was organized ih 1875 by Rev. P. H. Buerkle. The organizing members were Casper Stausmyer, Henry Michael, Charles Sander, Adam Hornung, Henry Beeker, Charles Esslinger, Louis Paul, George Minich, Joachim Albrecht, Fred Trapp, Christian Mintz, John Guieser, H. P. Neeb, P. Neeb, Henry Heesemann and Fred Tebbe.

The first officers of the church council were Casper Stausmyer, Charles Sander, Henry Michael and Rev. Buerkle. The young congregation was connected with the Lutheran parish at Hessville, Ohio. Rev. P. S. Poppen, the pastor of the Hessville charge, served Zion's congregation from 1875 to 1886. In 1876 a church was built at Gibsonburg costing $2,000. From 1886 to 1891 Rev. P. H. F. Seeger served Zion's congregation, having now become a self-supporting charge. Under

From 1891 to 1903 the congregation was served by Rev. H. W. Mohrhoff. The present new and beautiful church was dedicated to the Lord's service April 9, 1893. This new church is 42x88 feet, including sacristy and vestibule, and the tower, containing a bell of 1,500 pounds, is 125 feet high. The beautiful Gothic windows of stained glass, the large pipe organ, the lovely high altar with statutes of and the marble baptismal font - all this makes Christ, St. Peter and Martin Luther, the pulpit a very churchly appearance. The church and all its furnishment cost about $14,000. The present pastor is Rev. E. Gerfen.

Lutheran 'Parochial School. Almost from her beginning Zion's Lutheran Church had a parochial school, taught by the pastor. Soon a small schoolhouse was built and dedicated. In 1894 Mr. Fred Mohrhoff was called as second regular teacher. When Mr. Damrose accepted a call to another parish, Mr. A. Cordes was called as regular teacher. In 1897 Teacher Cordes resigned to go into business and since then Teacher Paul Mohrhoff is conducting the school most successfully. The attendance at present is seventy-four pupils, Teacher Mohrhoff is also the leader of the church choir and organist of the church. Paul

Ohio. He attended private and parochial schools and completed his studies at the Teachers' Seminary in Woodville, Ohio. From this seminary he was graduated with honors in 1895.

The old schoolhouse could not accommodate the growing attendance of pupils, hence it was sold and removed. But in 1894 the congregation bought the large public school building in the rear of the church for $1,250, in which now the work of the school is conducted.

Methodist Episcopal. Rev. C. W. Wolf was the first to preach regularly, in the year 1873. In the following year his successor, Rev. J. L. Scott, organized a class. In 1873 an old log church known as the "bass-wood" church was secured as a temporary place of worship. In 1878 an old schoolhouse was pur- chased and moved to the ground where the present edifice now stands, and converted into a church. This building was repaired at different times and finally under the pastorate of Rev. J. A. Lucy, the influence of the people and a successful revival necessitated the enlarging of the church building to accommodate the people. An additional lot was secured, and the church building was enlarged to about its present size. Other improvements were made in 1893-1894. The parsonage was built in 1889 and first occupied by Rev. J. W. Shultz. In the past the Gibsonburg charge has consisted of Gibsonburg, Washington Chapel, Tinney, Kansas and Rollersville. At present it consists of Gibsonburg and Tinney. Rev. C. J. Yeisley is the present pastor.

Christian Church. Was established in the year 1879, and was organized by Rev. A. C. Barlett, its first pastor. Prior to its organization the followers held meetings in the homes of the members. The present church edifice was commenced in 1881, but not completed until 1886. The elders. who were instrumental in the upbuilding of the church were George Morris, J. W. Hutchison, M. E. Long, Cea). Taylor;, trustees, EW Paylor laa Hutchison and Fred Maynard; deacons, H. R. Shull and Enoch Taylor. The Christian congregation is on a firm foundation, out of debt and money in the treasury. In connection with the church there is a good Sunday school, Endeavor Society, Aid Society and prayer meeting. The present pastor is Rev. E. L. Hand.

Catholic Church. The Catholics of Gibsonburg were members of St. Mary's parish at Millersville, six miles distant, until May, 1896. About that time the Lutheran Church in the village was offered for sale at a very low figure, and Bishop Horstmann sanctioned the purchase. It was moved to lots on East Stevenson Street, purchased for $420 by Father Dechant, in May, 1892. Ina short while the building was remodeled into a neat church and provided with suitable furnishings and a fine bell. The main. altar, several statutes and many other things in the line of church ornaments were donated -by Father Dechant. The remodeled church was dedicated to St. Michael on Sun-

Gibsonburg was made a parish in May, 1896, Rey. Philip A. Schritz as first resident pastor. He attended the place from Millersville after January of the same year. The priest's residence was built in 1896. He continued in his pastorate until December, 1898, when the Rev. L. L. Broens was appointed his successor. In June, 1901, Rev. J. B. Wendling was appointed pastor of St. Michael's. The erection of the present beautiful Gothic structure was completed and dedicated in June, 1905, on the grounds which had been purchased in 1903. The building and grounds are worth about $25,000. This building is an ornament to the village and will stand as a monument to the zeal of the Catholic people and the tireless labors of the priest in charge, Rev. J. B. Wendling.

The Salem United Brethren. The first ministers held meetings at the homes and schoolhouses. The class was first organized by Samuel Hadley and John Bright, about eight years before the log church was built.

Rev. D. P. Hurlbut gave the land where the log church was built, and the log church was completed in 1845, about two miles south of Gibsonburg.

The Salem U. B. log church was the first church built in Madison Township. Revs. John Long and Peter Fleck were the first ministers. Jacob Garn, John Reed and John Long were the first trustees. John Mosses, first superintendent in Salem log church.

The second Salem U. B. Church was built on the ground near the log church, in 1870. Rev. Michael Long was the first minister; Rev. Levi Moore was the first presiding elder.

Andrew Biddle, Jacob Garn, Peter Warner, John Long and Adam Mosses were first trustees; John Long, first superintendent; Jennie Garn, the first person converted in the Second Salem Church.

The third U. B. Church was built on West Madison Street in Gibsonburg. The cornerstone was laid in 1896, the building completed in 1897. Rev. S. H. Raudebaugh was first minister: Frank Nogegle. Dolph Fausey,

The first Ladies' Aid Society was organized in Gibsonburg, October 12, 1896. First president, Mrs. Ellen Noggle; secretary, Miss Ida Taylor. Rev. S. H. Raudebaugh is again the pastor and now in charge. .

Fraternal And Other Societies

Gibsonburg has her quota of fraternal and kindred organizations which furnish many social features of the place. Some of the orders are classed as pioneer orders and have grown and flourished with the city's progress, until now they are recognized as a necessity to the town. It possesses fraternal lodges of a number of the leading fraternities of the state. These local lodges are prosperous and number among their members the most reputable men and women of the place.

Womaws Home Missionary Society was organized in 1892, under the leadership of Mrs. O. Bowlan, now of Van Wert, Ohio, Sadie Maynard, deceased; Mrs. L. J. Turley, secretary, and Mrs. J. L. Hart, treasurer. It is non-denominational, has a large membership, and by its kind deeds carries sunshine into many clouded unfortunate homes within the corporation.

Encampinent of Patriarchs were granted a charter prior to 1884. They organized at Helena with the following named gentlemen as charter members: Dr. J. C. Thomson, Rollersville; J. M. Marvin, J. M. Garnes, J. M. Jones, GP. Cornelius and 7A; LY Ticew Mayre2. 1884, their charter and records were destroyed by fire. Shortly after, the present charter was secured in lieu of the one burned. The Encampment, No. 209, was then removed to Gibsonburg where it has met regularly in the I. O. O. F. hall, every second and fourth Thursday nights since.

Corps is auxiliary to the G. A. R. It holds regular meetings every alternate Monday night, in the I. O. O. F. hall. At the organization Mary E. Aleshire was elected president and served two years. Mary A. Jones, Sen. Vice; K. O. Donnells, Jr. Vice; Effie Crispen, secretary; Sadie People, treasurer; Elizabeth Johnson, conductor; Harriet Fought, chaplain; Emma Burkett, guard; Emma Van Tine, Ida Daunee, Elizabth Kornbaum and Jennie Ake, color bearers.

The Masonic Order. In the winter of 1893 and 1894 it was ascertained that there were not less than fifteen master masons in Gibsonburg, and the feeling seemed to exist that a lodge of F. & A. M. should be organized in Gibsonburg. A suitable room was secured in the Wichman Block. Permission was secured from the most worshipful grand master to work under dispensation with the following charter members: John Brown, J. B. Wilson, D. Frank Rust, H. H, Andrews, Thos. C. Pennell, Henry Purdy, W. J. Aleshire, R. H. Black, d. Logkiact, A.B. Pughes, Herbert Eo Myers, J. S. Paul, Frank Palmerton, George Raymond, James Ramage, Jacob Shoalts, J. B. Seeley and Cornelius Vandervelde. The following officers were appointed to put the lodge in motion: W. M., George Raymond; S. W., Jacob Shoalts; TW oW.. Je Wleshire; secretary, D. F. Rust; treacurer, ToC, Pennell: S, 0. J. UEart; J. D., Henry H. Andrews. When the grand lodge met in Springfield, October, 1895, a charter was granted October 24th. Jacob Shoalt was elected W. M. and J. W. Brown, secretary.

K..O. T. M.. Madison Tent, No. 175, K. O. T. M., was organized by District Rep. Charles Reeves of Sandusky, Ohio, June, i892. Dr. iN..B: Ervin, P. Com.: A. B. Kemmietling, Com.; F..W. Smith, Lt. Com.: Samuel Ernst, Teak Se. Peoples. Fo i VW. A enselas chaplain; W. W. Williams, sergeant; Dr. N. Bs Ervin, physician: A.A. Ake, Mat Ac. by H. Williams, tst M. of G.: Frank Thompson, 2dMeotrGr; GW. Stull, sentry: Wes. Care roll, picket.

Miss Harmon, of Detroit, Michigan, in February of 1893. Instrumental in the organization of this institution we find Mary E. Aleshire its first commander, with Orpha E. Hart its lieutenant; corresponding secretary, Cora E. DeLoe; F. K., Anna Fleming, now of Toledo; chaplain, Mary A. Jones; sergeant, Ida Leslie; M. of A., Myrtle Hughes; sentry, Emma Marsh; picket, Jennie Marsh, now of Carey, Ohio.

Rebekah Ladies. The order of Rebekah was instituted in May, the 24th day, 1889. The charter members were: John Brown and wife, Emma; John Hulburt and wife, Minnie; G. H. Daum and wife; William Penfield and wife; G. W. Florence, Jennie Florence; A. P. Johnson and wife; J. W. Wilson, John Fader, H. F. and Matilda Tice; Ed. and Mrs. Trimire; Samuel Kaiser, J. H. Ramage, A. Kemmerling, Anna Kaiser, Ella Powers and Dr. N. B. Ervin.

I. O. O. F., No. 687, is among the oldest fraternal organizations in the town, it being instituted May 5, 1879. From the charter granted the order and under which the present order is working, we find the names of T. D. Stevens, A. P.. Johnson, H. H. Tice, C..D. Pat-

Dohn, Henry Zorn, C. H. Heseman, Charles Ureech; A. H. Tice, J. L» Donnels, W. A. Penfield and John Brown, given as charter members. This order has been recognized as a leading factor in social and beneficiary orders. {n the big fire of 1897 the building, with almost all its furniture, was destroyed. Almost immediately after the fire work was begun upon the present beautiful structure that now adorns the corners of Main and Madison Streets, and is pronounced among the most beautiful in town. The building was finished in 1899. The first and second floors are used for hotel purposes, and the third is used by the Ova

Sind Representative Citizens

Sorosis Club. Last, but by no means least, among the organizations of the town is the Study Club, organized in 1898, and known as the Gibsonburg Sorosis.

The object is mutual benefit to its members and a united effort toward higher education. The club was started under the leadership of Mrs. Fred Wing, assisted by two vice presidents; Dora Turley, secretary; Mabel Ervin, treasurer.

Public Schools

Gibsonburg's school system is as old as the town itself. It began in a round log house on the ground now occupied by the Pennsylvania Depot. The old round log house with its puncheon floor and wooden-legged benches was displaced by a more modern log house made from hewn logs. The new house occupied the site that is now occupied by the Zorn-Hornung Company's store. The next improvement was when the little log house was outgrown and a frame building was built in its stead. Up to 1876 the schools had been a district school but in that year the village was set apart as a special district and a school board composed of J. W. Marvin, president; John Beach, Charles Sander, J. B. Taylor, E. Garn and J. Keninger. The new board at once caused the erection of a new and more modern schoolhouse of three rooms. When it was completed T. D. Stevenson, a successful country teacher, was hired as ptincipal. Mr. Stevenson arranged a course of study that was adhered to for many years. The town continued to grow and the new school building became too small to accommodate the pupils. At this time to relieve the conditions the town built another house, a one-story oneroom building, that was used as a_ primary school, but Gibsonburg was still growing with such rapidity that another building more commodious was deemed necessary. At last the site was chosen and work begun, which resulted in the erection of a beautiful brick structure, completed in 1894. It has nine rooms, with office and recitation room. It has a fne system of steam heating with ample provisions for toilet arrangements. Mr. Orrin Bowland, a man who did much good work in the schools, was the first principal in the new building. His administration was followed by Mr. Smith, a scholarly gentleman who arranged a course of study, or properly speaking, graded the schools, and placed them upon an _ excellent foundation.

The new building was erected at a cost, as before mentioned, of $16,000. Dr. N. B. Ervin was president of the board; Peter Bowser, clerk; A. P. Johnson, treasurer; Jacob Beard, P. H. Zorn and Charles Sander members at the time of its erection.

Pupils enrolled in high school, boys 23, girls 36; elementary, boys 186, girls 193, total enrollment 438. Paid for tuition in high school, including supervision, $1,800; in elementary $3,165. The number of teachers necessary to supply the high school, two; the elementary, eight; total, ten teachers. The whole number of graduates in history of the school, boys 25, girls 44, total 69. S. H. Benson is superintendent of schools.

The Gibsonburg Water Works. - The first definite action in the establishment of water works in Gibsonburg was the passage of an ordinance by the village council on May 13, 1896, authorizing and providing for the election of a board of water works trustees. These trustees were elected at a special election held June 15 of that year, N. B. Ervin, P. A. Rust and Henry Zorn being elected the first water works board.

The year following the election of this board was spent in the necessary preparatory work and in inspecting other ptants, and the erection of the plant was not commenced until the spring of 1897. Bonds were authorized in the sum of $30,000 for the construction of the plant, but only $28,000, however, were ever issued. The first well was drilled in the spring of 1897. A second well was drilled in 1900, the depth of each being 300 feet, and from these an abundant supply of the purest, clearest and most healthful water is obtained. Through

330 HISTORY nearly every foot of the trench work in laying the water mains was rock excavation to a greater or less extent, thus largely increasing the cost, vet the total cost of the original plant was kept within the bond issue of $28,000, though additions and extensions of the service have been added each year until the system 1s practically complete and water is within reach of nearly every resident within the city corporation.

The Electric Light Company. - The Gibsonburg Electric Light Company was established in 1893 by Chas. Shaffer. and after about two years sold out to F. H. Smith and John Shertzer. After running it a short time they sold out to two young men irom Pittsburg, Morhoff & Westhoff, who later formed a joint stock company composed of H. Feerhmyer, Charles Sander, Fred Gerwin, Rev. W. H. Mohrhoff, Albert Miller and Frank Minick. January 16, 1903, this company sold and the name was changed to The Gibsonburg Electric Light and Telephone Company, as a local telephone had been established some time prior to this change.

Stave and Heading Factory - Just when the first saw-mill was erected here cannot be definitely ascertained, but Gibson & Patterson were probably the men to start it, after which Farmer & Dohn became owners. The Zorn- Hornung Company bought it in 1881 and have run it ever since until last July. t904, when the press of their other industries became so great that they leased it to Bruner & Son, of Tiffin, for two vears with the privilege of five vears. The mill, which not only saws all kinds of lumber, has in connection a stave and heading factory, which at present is all that Bruner & Son manufacture. The plant burned down in 1885 but was rebuilt the same year. At one time the Zorn-Hornung Company had in connection a hoop factory, but is was destroyed bv fire several years ago and was not rebuilt. In the early days the mill was run night and day and IT0O men were employed, but as timber became scarcer, not so many men were employed.

A. B. Hughes conducts a machine shop on South Main Street, Gibsonburg, which has a steady patronage. Mr. Hughes is also largely engaged in oil production.

Creamery - The creamery was established here in 1886, by the Zorn-Hornung Company, aud has been operated by them ever since. It is one of the many important industries which this progressive firm operates. The average daily output will average not less than 700 pounds the year around. They have made as high as 2,000 pounds in a day.

Grain [:levator - The enterprising firm, The Zorn-Hornung Company, erected this building in 1875, and in order to take care of their grain trade rebuilt it in 1894. It has a capacity of 8,000 bushels. They also grind all kinds of mill feed and do an exchange business in fiour. They always pay the highest prices for all kinds of grains and by their fair dealing no opposition has ever sprung up to any extent. The people rely upon their honesty and know that they will make everything right. C. F. Hornung is the general manager; O. E. Bea-