Sandusky County, Ohio - Chapter 25: Miscellanea, 1909 (part 6 of 18)

This firm handles gas engines, buggies, wagons and a full line of farm machinery, making a specialty of drilling tubular and cased wells. They also handle the Walter A. Wood Binders and Mowers, and the Star Wind Pump and John Deer farm implements ; Hoosier Drill, and the Ohio Cultivators. They operate a blacksmith shop in addition to their other industries and aside from the smiths they give employment to seven men and a boy. This is one of the old standard business houses of the city and has the confidence and patronage of a large outlying agricultural section.

JAMES LONGANBACH,, president of the board of trustees of Sandusky Township and one of the county commissioners of Sandusky County, resides on his valuable farm of seventy acres, which is situated in section 32 and is devoted to general agriculture. He was born May 15, 1870, in Rice Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, and is a son of Martin and Rosa (Engler) Longanbach, natives of Baden, Germany.

Martin Longanbach was thirteen years old when his parents brought him to America. After a short stay in New York, they came to Sandusky County and were among the early settlers of Rice Township. Martin Longanbach was a solid, reliable citizen of Rice Township, was a county commissioner, elected on the Democratic ticket. He died in December, 1893. He was married in Ohio to Rosa Engler and the following members of their family survive: Elizabeth, wife of John Otermat, of Rice Township; Caroline, wife of Frederick Smith, of Los Angeles; Amelia, wife of Charles Will, of Jackson Township; William H., of Fremont; Louisa, wife of Obediah Kerns, of Washington Township: John M., of Fremont; Henry L., of Green Creek Township; Irvin B., of Fremont; Clara, wife of Frederick Thurn, of Sandusky Township; and James.

ever since. He obtained a good, common school education and ever since has devoted himself to agricultural pursuits, but now, however, to the exclusion of public matters, for he has been an unusually active citizen. He enjoys to a large extent, the confidence of his fellow citizens and has frequently been called on to accept offices of trust and responsibility. He has served as township assessor and for a number of years has been trustee, as mentioned above, being the president of the board, and in the fall of 1908 was elected a county commissioner, an important office for which he is well qualified.

On January 18, 1893, Mr. Longanbach was married to Miss Edith Schiemon, who was born in Germany, a daughter of August Schiemon, later of Fremont. Mr. and Mrs. Longanbach are members of Grace Lutheran Church at Fremont, of which he has been a trustee for many years.

IRVING R. CLAPP, assistant cashier and a stockholder of the Clyde Savings Bank Company of Clyde, Ohio, has been identified with this institution since May, 1897. He was born in Clyde, January 23, 1878, and was the only child born to Robert and Mary (Storer) Clapp, both of whom died at the age of sixtyseven years.

Irving R. Clapp attended the grade and high schools at Clyde, and upon leaving the latter entered the First National Bank as bookkeeper in May, 1897. He was soon after promoted to be assistant cashier, in which capacity he served while the bank continued under the name mentioned, and after it was changed to the Clyde Savings Bank Company. He also is identified with the cashier of the bank, George D. Tiffany, in the insurance business. He is the owner of the old home farm in Green Creek Township, but resides with his family on Forest Street in Clyde.

June 12, 1901, \Mr. Clapp was married to Miss Lottie M. Hutchison, 'daughter of the late Charles Hutchison, and they have two sons, Robert and James Howard. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, the Knights of Pythias, Knights of the Maccabees,

Hon. Charles C. Tunnington

HON. CHARLES C. TUNNINGTON, mayor of Fremont, Ohio, serving in his second term in this honorable and responsible office, has demonstrated in his own career not only the opportunities which await those who feel that public office is a duty and. trust and fit themselves for it, but also that faithfulness, industry and integrity along any line, will bring their measure of success. He was born in Lorain County, Ohio, December 29, 1869, and is one of three children born to his parents, Thomas and Mary (Mountain) Tunnington.

The parents of Mayor Tunnington were life-long residents of Lorain County, where the father died in 1876. He engaged through his active years in a tailoring business, being an expert cutter.

Lorain County remained the home of Mayer Tunnington during his educational period, after which he studied dentistry and engaged in practice for five years, later, in 1892, coming to Fremont, which has been his chosen home ever since. For some sixteen years he was connected with the Christy Knife Company. From early manhood he has been interested in politics and a student of public questions, and after selecting Sandusky County as his future home, he became identified with Democratic politics in this section. On November 5, 1905, he was first elected to the high municipal office that he still fills and gave the people so admirable an administration that he was re-elected by a majority of 527 votes. He possesses all the qualifications for still higher political honors and has a personal following irrespective of party who recognize his efforts for civic advancement.

EBEN ROOT, one of Sandusky Township's well-known citizens and experienced farmers and stock raisers, was born in Erie County, Ohio, January 16, 1843, and is a son of Oliver Perry and Celia (Hardy) Root.

The father of Mr. Root was born in Connecticut and at an early day accompanied his parents to Erie County, Ohio, where his subsequent life was. passed. He married Celia Hardy,-who was born in the State of New York, and her life also was mainly spent in Erie County. Of their children there are three survivors: Elizabeth A., who is the wife of Robert Wilcox, of Wood County, Ohio; Eben; and John O., who remdins in Erie County.

Eben Root obtained his education in the district schools near his father's farm in Erie County, and on the home place was trained in the pursuits which he has followed ever since, having an extended experience, as his father was a large farmer and stock dealer' Mr. Root came to Sandusky County in 1876 and, with the exception of a short time spent in Erie County, has lived here continuously since that year.

On October 9, 1867, Mr. Root was married to Miss Jemima Fell, who was born in Scotland, October 1, 1848, and is a daughter of James and Isabella (Kail) Fell. When she was five years old she with other members of the family, accompanied her widowed mother across the Atlantic Ocean to America. The family settled in Stark County, Ohio, and there she grew ta womanhood and there married Mr. Root. To this union were born five children, as follows: Sarah Isabella, wife of George Carr, lives in Sandusky Township; Carrie E., wife of William C. Engler, lives in Washington Township; Walter F., lives in Sandusky Township; Bessie A., wife of George Overmyer, lives at Fremont; and David P. is deceased.

In politics, Mr. Root is a Democrat. He has been a loyal and patriotic citizen all his mature life, and in May, 1863, testified to the truth of his assertions, by enlisting for service in the Civil War. , He served for three months as a member of Company F, 145th Ohio Vol. Inf., being then honorably discharged.

CHARLES LEWIS SMITH, whose well improved farm of seventy acres lies near Four Mile House, in Sandusky County, Ohio, is one of the experienced agriculturists and well- * known citizens of Sandusky Township. He

Dominick Smith was born in Germany and remained in his own land until he was twentyfive years of age, when he came to America and located in Sandusky County. He had little capital at that time and at first worked for his daily bread on the construction of the Lake Erie and Western Railroad and later acquired land at Four Mile House and became a useful pioneer of what was then a wild part of the county. He was a man of excellent parts, industrious and honest and upright in all his dealings. He was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a liberal contributor to its support, and at all times did his full duty in advancing the various interests of the section in which he had found the chance to establish a home. He died on the home place in March, 1903. He married Barbara Rearick, who died in December, 1893. She was a native of Pennsylvania. They had two sons born to them: Charles Lewis and John F. The latter is superintendent of the public schools of Findlay, Ohio.

Charles' Lewis Smith grew to manhood in Sandusky Township and obtained his education in the public schools. -Ever since reaching man's estate he has been actively engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was married December 25, 1888, to Miss Emma Hyatt, who was born in Sandusky County, Ohio, and is a daughter of George Hyatt, late of Jackson Township. They have one son, Ralph W., who was born September 4, 1891, and is,a promising student in the Fremont High School. Mr. Smith and family are members of the First Methodist Episcopal Church at Fremont, and he is a member of the board of trustees: In politics he is a Republican and fraternally he is an Odd Fellow, belonging to McPherson Lodge, No. 637, Fremont.

GEORGE C. BAKER, a well-known citizen and prosperous farmer who owns valuable farm land within one mile of the village of Woodville, was born on that farm, in Woodville Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, in 1863, and is a son of S. G. Baker, the latter

George C. Baker went from the schools of Woodville, to the Northern Indiana University, at Valparaiso, where he was graduated in thé. classical course in 1888. Mr. Baker then took up the profession of teaching and 'continued educational work for a considerable period and in different States of the Union. He taught\in Ohio, Illinois, Louisiana and Kansas, spending seven, years. in the last mentioned State and during that time serving as superintendent of the schools of both Marysville and Centralia. After his return to Sandusky County he located on a part of the hamestead farm and has since done a 'large amount of building and improving. He has twice been visited by fire and has but recently completed a new barn, the former ones having been totally destroyed, to his great loss. Mr. Baker carries on general farming, grows fruit and raises enough stock for his own use.

the peace, has been a county jury commissioner and: at the present time is serving as clerk of the township school board. He is a Knight Templar Mason.

JACOB J. BURKIN, a well-known citizen and successful farmer of Riley Township, Sandusky County, who has lived on his present 'excellent farm of eighty acres since 1892, was born in Bahlingen, Baden, Germany, September 21, 1849, and is a son of Jacob and Catherine (Joseph) Burkin.

bound for America, taking passage at Havre, France, on a sailing vessel, which safely landed them at Castle Garden fifty-six days later. After about one year spent at Sandusky, Ohio, they . settled in Riley Township, Sandusky County, in December, 1867, where they lived until 1875, when Jacob Burkin and wife moved

Jacob J. Burkin spent about ten years in Erie County, Ohio, after coming to America, but in December, 1877, he took up his residence in Townsend Township, Sandusky County, where he remained until 1892, when he came to Riley Township. His farm shows evidences of careful cultivation and may be classed with the most productive ones of this section. Mr. Burkin had been given a fair education in his own land and during his residence in America has acquired a surprising facility in the English tongue and thus has the advantage of understanding two languages. He has always been industrious and mainly through his own efforts has acquired what he owns. He is a man whose honorable and useful life has won for him the respect of his fellow citizens.

In July, 1872, Mr. Burkin was married to Miss Louisa Leitz. This estimable lady is a daughter of Joseph Leitz'and they were born in Kuppenheim, Baden, Germany. Mrs. Burkin came to America in 1871 and in the following year was married. Of the large family born to Mr. and Mrs. Burkin, the following are living: John J., residing in Erie County; Louisa, wife of Herman Last, of Fremont; Frederick C., living in Riley Township; Ida, wife of William Griffin, of New York State; Joseph, residing at Bellevue, Ohio; Jacob G., residing in Riley Township; Emma, residing in the State of New York; and Carrie, who lives in Riley Township. Mr. Burkin is a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church at Clyde, Ohio. In politics, he is a Democrat.

J. HENRY MICHEL, who resides on his valuable farm of eighty acres, situated in Washington Township, Sandusky County, all but fifteen acres of which he has under cultivation, is one of the township's most respected German-American citizens. He was born in Germany, April 25, 1858, and is a son of Garrett and Elizabeth (Shafer) Michel.

Binte; J. Henry, of Washington Township; Mary, who was the second wife of Harmon Spady; Eliza, who was the first wife of Harmon Spady; 'Catherine, who married Charles Folman; and Harmon, who married Lucy Swan.

J. Henry Michel grew to manhood in Washington Township and has always lived an honorable and upright life. As a farmer he has been very successful and his land in its cultivation and improvements, compares favorably with others. In 1887 he married Miss Emma Shepman, whose parents were natives of Germany. Mrs. Michel has one brother - Frederick, who married Mary Stamm - and two sisters - Sophia, who lives at home, and. Carrie, who married Harry Garn.. Mr. and Mrs. Michel have had the following children : Nettie, Harry, Hilda, Edward, William, Clarence and Helen, all of whom are living except Nettie. The younger children attend school and the family has been carefully reared in the faith of the Lutheran Church.

CAPT. JOSIAH M. FAIRBANK, one of the most highly esteemed among the elderly residents of Helena, Jackson Township, was born in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, December 30, 1824: His 'parents were Josiah and Charlotte (Twing) Fairbank, and he is of old New England ancestry, being a descendant of Jonathan Fairbank, who came from England and settled at Dedham, Massachusetts, in 1832. In that historic town there is still standing a picturesque old house which was built by this early progenitor of the family, and in which the subject of this sketch has several times taken dinner. Its erection was begun in. 1636 - the year of Jonathan Fairbank's advent in this country - additions being made 'to it in 1648 and 1654.

An interesting account of this historic old domicile is contained in the work entitled "Old Colonial Homes," by Alvin L: Jones, published in 1894. This house is still occupied as a residence. It stands upon a lot of about one acre, the rest of the original estate having been long ago divided among different branches of the Fairbanks family.

The house is in three sections - a. main .part The entire length, ineluding the wings, is seventy-five feet.. The main or middle part has a pitch roof extending down over the lean-to at the back to within a few feet of the ground. The windows are irregularly placed and, not all' of. the same size, giving the hotise:a 'peculiar appearance from the outside. In' front -of though the house is now supplied with the town water. The doorways are so low that a person. of 'medium height could scarcely pass through without 'bending his" head. The kitchen, which 'has the appearance of being the oldest room in the-house, is about sixteen feet square and is lighted only by two long narrow windows of the front. Overhead may be seen all the old beams and rafters, the room never beving been plastered. . The old fireplace las been. covered in, but the brick oven still remains, though no longer in-use. One of the 'most interesting features of the old house is a square log placed:as,a step in the doorway leading from the kitchen to the lean-to, and which shows in a deep, smooth' hollow the result of. the, passing of countless footsteps through | 'some seven.'or eight generations of the family. -The house contains: some interesting old relics and many more have been sold or. given away. Occasionally a years has been returned and resumed its 'old place in the ancient domicile. Among the relics remaining is an old smooth-bore musket, two yards long, which was. carried at the siege of Louisbourg by Lieut., Joseph Fairbanks. There, are' also 4 quantity. of old china, some very old books, and.a set of four colored pictures of the Lexington and Concord fight, by J. Honeywaod, which are said' to be, original drawings, and ftom which 'reproductions have been made by some of the leading magazines. There is a tradition that the timbers, of the house were brought from 'England' all 'ready shaped. Many pages of description could. be written of this. interesting . old homestead, but lack of space forbids a more ex- tended mention. Its picturesque appearance and surroundings make it a favorite subject for artists, by whom it is often visited, as well as by numerous descendants of the family, who come from all parts of the country to see the ancestral home, now the oldest residence in the United States.

Passing over the history of the earlier progenitors of the family in the present branch, which would pertain more appropriately to a genealogical work, we come to 'the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, Manasseh Fairbanks or Fairbank (the final "s" in the family having been dropped by this branch), who was born at Lancaster, Massachusetts, August 20, 1765.

His son Josiah was born in 1776, the year of the declaration of our National Independence, and when the newly confederated American Colonies were in the full tide of their desperate struggle with the Mother Country. We have at hand no.record of the earlier years of Josiah Fairbank, nor the date of his marriage to Charlotte Twing, who was born May 11, 1796. In 1826, however, he removed with his family to Ohio, doubtless seeking to better his fortune in the Western country that was then beginning to attract wide-spread attention in the East. His hopes were not destined to be realized, however, as death cut short his career July 27th, 1828, when he had been settled scarcely two years in the Land of Promise. His widow subsequently became the wife of Coonrad Turner. - four by each marriage, those by her first husband, Josiah Fairbank, being Stephen, Philena, Octava and Josiah. Of her second union, with Mr.. Turner, the children were: James, deceased, Nancy, Mary and Charity. The mother of this family died July 27, 1880, having survived her first husband nearly fifty-two years.

Josiah M. Fairbank was an infant when he accompanied his parents to Ohio. After his father's death his mother returned to Massachusetts, where he received his education and where he resided until 1845. Having then arrived at his majority, he re- turned to Ohio alone, settling first at Lafayette, Medina County, until 1854. On January I, 1846, he married Sovina Bowman. In 1854 he moved to Wood County, Ohio, where he built a saw-mill. This he sold in 1856 and moved to Sandusky County, Madison Township, where he worked at his trade of carpenter. Purchasing a farm of 160 acres, he resided thereon until 1873, when (this being the year in which the town of Helena was settled) he took up his residence here, building the first house in the village. He has since had much to do with the development of the place, having built nineteen houses,. the schoolhouse, grain elevator, and the Odd Fellows' Block besides a large number of houses around in the vicinity. Although well advanced in years, he still follows his trade, feeling more contented when actively engaged in his accustomed avocation. , Captain Fairbank has a good Civil War record. On October 20, 1861, he enlisted in Company I, 72d O. Vol. Inf., as a private for three years, at Fremont, but before his time was up he re-enlisted and served in all about four years. The following are the battles in which he took part: Pittsburg Landing, Siege of Corinth, Jackson, Mississippi (twice), besides a large number of skirmishes. He was captured June 12, 1863, and was subsequently in prison at Macon, Georgia, Charleston, South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Raleigh, North Carolina. He was paroled at Goldsboro, March 1, 1864, and went back to his regiment, and was mustered out at Vicksburg September II, 1865, having served in all the official grades of his company except that of corporal. He returned as captain of his compariy, and was fortunate in having escaped all serious injury. Captain Fairbank is a member of Canfield Post, G. A. R., of Gibsonburg; also of the I. O. O. F. Lodge at Helena and the Encampment at Woodville, having passed through all the chairs in both these latter orders. He has served the town creditably. as justice of the peace and at present is serving in his twelfth consecutive

Captain Fairbank and wife have been the parents of six children: Lewis H., Francis D., Armenia, Charles W., Christopher, and George, whose records in brief are as follows:

Lewis H. Fairbank, who is now a resident of Madison Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, married Marguerite Walters and they have one child, Donna, a daughter. The latter became the wife of John Madison and they also reside in Madison Township and are the parents of two children.

Francis D. Fairbank married Lucinda Hartman and they reside in Montgomery Township, Wood County. They have eight children: Grant, Nellie, Tillie, Pearl, Eulo, Hattie, Helan, and Frankie, in addition to whom one other died in infancy. Of the above, Grant is married, resides in' Wood County, and has two children. Nellie has been married twice - first to William Holcomb, now deceased, by whom she had two children, Clarence and Sherl - and secondly to Ed Mason. She resides with her husband in Wood County. Tillie married David Williams and they have had three children. Pearl is the wife of Clayton Lance and also resides.in Wood County; she has one child. Eulo, who is married, lives in Oklahoma, and has one child. Hattie married a Mr. James and lives at Bradner; they have three children. Helan and Frankie are single.

Armenia Fairbank married William Peck and resides in Helena. She has five children: Charles, Vivennia, Ida, Mattie, and Goldie. Of. her children, Charles married Celia Gries. They have one child, Alta Armenia, and reside in Madison Township. Vivennia Peck married Frank Kennan and has three children: Bernice, Bert, and Harry. They live at Tinney in Scott Township. Ida Peck became the wife of Cleon Stone, now 'deceased, and resides.in Madison Township. Her children are Beatrice, Gladys, Hila and Floy. Mattie Peck married O. B. Smith and lives in Scott Town-

Charles W. Fairbank married Salome Kemmerling and they live in Madison Township. They have had eight children: Essie (deceased), Harry, Josephine, Lillie, Jessie, Ralph, Harvey, Wesley. Harry, who is married, resides in Indiana and has one child; Lillie is also married and lives in Oblong, Illinois. The others are unmarried.

Christopher Fairbank married Ida Hawkins and they have four children: Flossie (deceased), Ethel, Bertha, and Beatrice. Ethel married Herbert Moses and they reside in Helena and have two children, Norman and Byron. Bertha is the wife of William Wasser of Toledo, Ohio, where Beatrice also resides.

HENRY L. KOWALK, a prominent citizen and representative farmer of Riley Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, resides upon his farm of 106 acres and is also the owner of a farm of eighty acres in Green Creek Township. He was born in Prussia, Germany, Feb-° ruary I1, 1844, and is a son of Ludwig J. and Ernestine Kowalk.

The subject of this sketch was deprived of a mother's loving care and training, by death, at the early age of eight years, and was eighteen years old when his father died. The latter was crippled and Henry L. from eight years lived among strangers. He received a fair common school education in his native land, and upon coming to this country acquired a good knowledge of the English language. In the fall of 1867 he sailed for the United States from Hamburg, and eighteen days later landed in New York City. He at once came west to Sandusky County, Ohio, and has since been a resident of Riley Township. For a time he hired out as a farm hand, but in 1872 located on his present home farm in section 32, Riley Township. He at first lived in a log cabin on the farm and as time went on made many and important improvements until he now has one of the best kept places tn this part of the township. He erected the comfortable home in which he now lives and also the various substantial farm buildings. Mr. Kowalk is a Republican in politics and served as a member of the School Board and for three years was trustee of Riley Township. He has always identified himself with the best interests of the public, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of his fellow citizens.

Mr. Kowalk was first married to Hannah Schmidt, who was born in Germany and who died in Riley Township, May 21, 1808, leaving the following children: William O., of Fremont; Herman A., of Sandusky Township; Charles M., of Grand Lodge, Michigan; Emma L., wife of Milan Smith of Ballville Township; John H., of Green Creek Township; Amelia A., wife of Allen Gilbert of Riley Township; Henry A., of Riley Township; Anna M., who lives at home; Samuel A., of Baliville Township; George B., of Fremont, and Frank R. and Lester R., both of Riley Township. On August 13, 1900, the subject of this record formed a second marriage with Mrs. Jacob Heffinger, whose first husband lived in Sandusky Township at the time of his death. They are members of the Evangelical Association of Fremont.

HENRY J. BERGMAN, a prominent citizen-of Sandusky County, whose recent election to the office of county commissioner is but a just recognition of his many sterling qualities, resides on his fine farm of I00 acres, which is situated in the southeastern corner of Rice Township. He was born in Ottawa County, Ohio, September 24, 1858, on his father's farm in Danbury Township, and is a son of Deitrich and Helena (Wuhrman) Bergman.

The parents of Mr. Bergman were born in Hanover, Germany, and after coming to America, in 1845, they settled in Danbury Township, Ottawa County, where they were early settlers. Deitrich Bergman died there June 18, 1899, but his venerable widow still survives, having reached her ninetieth year. They were the parents of three children: Henry J., Edward C. and John A., the two latter still residing in Ottawa County.

Henry J. Bergman was reared and educated in his native county and there engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1883, when he settled on his present farm in Rice Township, Sandusky County, where he engages in general farming and stock raising. Mr. Bergman is a progressive, public spirited man and ever since coming to Sandusky County has taken an active interest in public affairs. A stanch Democrat in politics, Mr. Bergman has always commanded the support of his partv in his political campaigns, and has also enjoyed the respect and confidence of a large number of those whose political affiliations were with other organizations, hence he has been elected to a number of important offices with flattering majorities. He served six consecutive years as treasurer of Rice Township, served twelve years as a member of the School Board, and later in 1908, was elected county commissioner,

Mr. Bergman married Miss Betty Corrs, born in Ottawa County, Ohio, a daughter of Henry and Mary Corrs, who retired from Rice Township to Fremont and now reside in a comfortable home on Franklin Street. To Mr. and Mrs, Bergman three children have been born, namely: Ora H., who is the wife of William H. Hinkel, of Rochester, New York; Deitrich and Mary, both of whom reside at home. Mr. Bergman and family are members of Grace Lutheran Church at Fremont. He is identified with a number of fraternal organizations, including the Modern Woodmen, the Eagles and the Maccabees.

MRS. ELIZABETH HUFFORD, one of Washington Township's most esteemed ladies, widow of the late Thomas Hufford, resides on the Hufford farm, which contains 160 acres, in which she has a life interest.

Mrs. Hufford was born in Washington Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, on the farm on which she resides. She is a daughter of Isaac and Nancy (Sellars), Cookson, who came from Perry County to Sandusky County in 1831, accompanying Joseph Cookson, who secured the present farm from the Government. He did the larger part of the clearing and at his death the land was inherited by' his son, Isaac, father ot Mrs. Hufford. In 1869 Elizabeth Cookson was married to Thomas Hufford, who was a son of Jacob and Rebecca (Couffaw) Hufford. To this marriage were born the following children: Elsie S.; George W., who married Effie Hiett, and has one son, Goland H.; Minnie, who married Arthur Barnes,-and has two children, Carlton T. and Elsie Marie; and Cyrus S., who married Anna May Deemer, and has one daughter, Martha Elizabeth.

Cyrus S. Hufford resides with his mother and operates the farm. The death of Thomas Hufford took place April 21, 1898. He was a man who was well and favorably known through Washington Township. In politics he was a Democrat. The family has long been in active membership with the Methodist Protestant Church.

CHARLES A. HOCHENEDEL, civil engineer, with office in the Masonic Block, Fremont, Ohio, served as county surveyor of Sandusky County from 1901 to 1997, and although a comparatively young man, is well and widely known in his profession. He was born in the city of Fremont, November 24, 1871, and is a son of John B. and Sarah Elizabeth (Buckhold) Hochenedel.

John B. Hochenedel was born in Germany, came to America in early manhood and married a member of one of the old and substantial families of Sandusky County.

Charles A. Hochenedel was reared in Fremont and attended the city schools, later taking a course in what was then known as the Ohio Normal University at Ada, dividing his time between the commercial and engineering courses and completing the latter under private instruction in this city. He has'met with much success in his chosen profession and his term of six years as county surveyor'proved acceptable in every way to the tax payers and all concerned.

Mr. Hochenedel married Miss Lena Schrikel, a daughter of Louis P. Schrikel, and they have one son, Harold Earl.. The family attends the Lutheran Church. In politics, Mr. Hochenedel is a Democrat and fraternally he is an Elk.

JACOB DARR, a prominent and' successful agriculturist of Rice Township, residing on his farm of eighty acres, in section 31, owns also fifty-four acres located in sections 30 and 26. He was born in Rice Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, March 10, 1856, and is a son of Peter and Anna M. (Schmidt) Darr.

Peter Darr was born in Bavaria, Germany, and his wite in Lorraine, now also a province of Germany. | When twelve years old, the father of Peter Darr, Nicholas Darr, brought his family to America, landing in the city of New York and coming from there to Ottawa County, Ohio. Nicholas Darr ahd wife both died there and Peter Darr remained in Ottawa County urttil 1854, when he came to Sandusky County. He located in section 30, Rice Township, among the early settlers there and made that his permanent home, dying October 27, 1894. He was a man of fine character, intelligent and honest and he was frequently elected to office, on the Democratic ticket. For three years he served as treasurer of Rice Township, also as township trustee and one term as county commissioner of Sandusky County. He and wife were worthy members of St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Fremont. His widow survived him for seven years, her death occurring December 27, 1901. They reared a large family which has grown to respected manhood and womanhood. Cecelia M. married John Gabel, of Rice Township. Jacob lives in Rice Township. Anna R. married George Bundschuh of Riley 'Township. Charles R. lives in Ballville Township. Albert P. lives in Rice Township. Catherine married George E. Smith, of Ballville Township. Louisa lives at Fremont. John T. resides in Rice Township. Clara and Elizabeth both live at Fremont, and Rudolph N. lives in Rice Township.

Jacob Darr obtained his education in the public schools of Rice Township and from boyhood has been accustomed to life on a farm. He has carefully developed his land and is recognized as one of the leading agriculturists of the township.

On April 25, 1883, Mr. Darr was married to Miss Jeanette Schwanger, who was born in Switzerland, a daughter of John Schwanger, who was once a much respected resident of

Sandusky Township. To this marriage have been born eight children, Stanislaus P., Robert V., Mary E. , Wilbert J., Walter J., Rudolph F,, Oscar i. and Lavina A, all of whom survive except Oscar F. Mr. Darr and family are members of St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Fremont. Mr. Darr is serving in his sixth year as'a director of the Sandusky County Agricultural Society, is road supervisor of Road District No. 1, Rice Township, and is a director of the Sandusky County Mutual Insurance Company. He is one of Rice Tewnship's representative men.

JOHN G. GERLACH, who resides on a farm of forty acres in Washington Township, belonging to his father, owns the fourteen acres which adjoin on the west, and is one of the active enterprising young agriculturists of this section. He was born on the farm on which he resides, in Sandusky County, Ohio, July 4, 1883, and is a son of John and Christina (Linker) Gerlach.

The parents of Mr. Gerlach now live retired at Elmore and are among the most highly esteemed people of the village. They had two children born to them: Sophia, who married R. B. Hess and has one daughter, siaaiei born March 19, 1907, and John G.

John G. Gerlach obtained his education in the schools of Washington Township, after which he worked for his father until he was nineteen years old. He then spent two years at railroad work, following which he returned to agricultural pursuits and has been operating his father's farm in addition to his own, for some years. He takes much interest in agriculture and manages to make every part of the estate give satisfactory returns.

On November 1, 1906, Mr. Gerlach was married to Miss Hattie Boyer, the oldest child of Frank and Catherine (Kline) Bover, whose other children were, Irvin L., residing in Washington Township, who married Daisy Seibert: Bert L., residing at Lindsay, who married Floydean Cochran; and Gertrude, Raymond and Amos, all at home. Mr. Gerlach belongs to the United Brethren Church, while Mrs. Gerlach was reared in the Evangelical faith. They are welcome additions to the social life

JOEL BURKETT, proprietor, with his sons, of the Burkett Lightning Rod Company, with plant on South Park Avenue, Fremont, is the oldest man in the point of business in this line in the State of Ohio, having started thirty-nine years ago, seventeen of which have been spent at Fremont. Mr. Burkett was born at Lindsey, Washington Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, March 19, 1847, and is a son of Benjamin and Susan (Brehm) Burkett.

John Burkett, the grandfather of Joel Burkett, was born in Switzerland and came to the American colonies prior to the Revolutionary War, in which he became a participant, serving as one of the bodyguard of General Washington and being one of the last of this old guard to pass away. His remains lie in the cemetery at Hessville.

Benjamin Burkett, father of Joel, was born in Perry County, Ohio, and from there came to Sandusky County in 1833, settling in Washington Township, where he entered land, during the administration of President Jackson, paying for this at the rate of $1.25 per acre. He married Susan Brehm, who was also a native of Perry County. He engaged in farming in Sandusky County and died on his own land in 1855, survived by his widow until 1864.

Joel Burkett was reared on the home farm, where he gave assistance until he was about eighteen years of age. He obtained his education in the country schools and enjoyed two terms at Oberlin College, after that becoming a teacher. For some nine years Mr. Burkett confined himself pretty closely to the school-room. In 1870 he first turned his attention to the lightning rod business. while residing at Lindsey, of which place he was a prominent citizen, being elected its first mayor and serving in that office for two years. In 1892 he came to Fremont and with a wider business field has built up a very large business, the firm at present operating in four States and do- ing both a wholesale and retail business. For thirty years Mr. Burkett has also been in the fire insurance business and in addi~ tion to his other activities served for nine years as a justice of the peace in Washington Township. |

In 1870 Mr. Burkett was married to Miss Annie E. Schleis, who was born in Bohemia and died April 1, 1902. Her father, Andrew Schleis, came to Sandusky County in 1860 and died two years later. To Mr. and Mrs. Burkett nine children were born, namely: Orrin V., who is also a lightning rod man at Fremont, married Emma Huntsburger and they have one child, Franklin Joel; Mary Violet; Urzella; Mertie O., who married W. W. Stull, has one child, Wilbur B.; Otto J. and Walter S., who are associated with their father in business; Frederick P., who died aged seven years; Clinton B. F., who died aged seventeen years; and Byron C. The family home is a handsome brick residence situated on South Park Avenue, Fremont. For forty-six years Mr. Burkett has been a member of the Evangelical Church. He is a charter member of the lodge of Odd Fellows at Lindsey.

JOSEPH DOLWECK, one of Rice Township's substantial and respectable citizens and experienced agriculturists, resides on his valuable and finely cultivated farm of 180 acres, which has been his home since 1871. He was born in Alsace, now in Germany, April 19, 1842, and is a son of Peter and Maria (Miller) Dolweck. The parents of Mr. Dolweck came to America in 1852 and established themselves in Scott Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, where they lived for a number of years. They later moved into Jackson Township, where both died.

Township and attended the district schools. He assisted his father on the home farm until he had reached manhood and then started out for himself. He is now a man of property and all of this he has made for himself through hard work and careful management. Mr. Dolweck has everything very comfortable about him, good farm buildings, orchards, fertile fields and plenty of stock in his pastures.

On May 28, 1867, Mr. Dolweck was married (first) to Miss Catherine Gabel, a daughter of Jacob Gabel, and to this union were born six children, namely: Clara M., who is the wife of Frederick Bauer, of Cleveland; and Caroline R., Jacob P., John N., Frank J. and Alphonso. The mother of the children named died January 29, 1879. Mr. Dolweck was married (second ) February 5, 1885, to Miss Anna J. Busold, who was born March 19, 1856. She is a daughter of Adam and Francisco (Abel) Busold. Mrs. Dolweck accompanied her parents from Germany in 1884; settling in Sandusky County, and in the following year she was married to Mr. Dolweck. Five children have been born to this marriage, namely: Augusta L., Anna M. T., Seraphine L., Catherine F. and Susan M. Mr. Dolweck,and family are members of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church at Fremont. In politics he is a Democrat.

S. P. GARDNER, who resides on his fine farm of 102 acres, situated in Woodville Township, Sandusky County, has oil as well as agricultural interests in this section and is one of the substantial men of the county. He was born in Washington County, New York, in 1852, and is a son of S. P. Gardner, who was two years old when he was brought to. Ohio. The latter's parents located at Port Clinton and he subsequently became a farmer near Genoa, Ottawa County. He married Esther Lewis and they had eight children.

S. P. Gardner, subject of this sketch, was reared and educated in Ottawa County. After leaving school he settled down to farming, which has been his main interest ever since, although he is also an oil operator to a considerable extent.

Mr. Gardner married Miss Emeline Truman and they have two children, Pearl and Leander. The former married Nathan Carrick and they live in Ross County, Michigan. The latter assists his father and resides on the home farm. He married Dora Ringler. Mr. Gardner and family are members of the Christian Church at Genoa. In politics he is a Republican and on that ticket was elected a trustee of the township and served acceptably.

CHARLES F. JACOBS, a representative citizen of Riley Township, residing on his excellent farm of sixty acres, which is situated not far from Erlin, Ohio, was born October 8,

The parents of Mr. Jacobs 'were born in Baden, Germany. .They came some time in the early thirties and settled in Riley Township at a time when many Indians yet lived in the forests and wild game provided their subsistence. 'To George Jacobs and wife 'were born eight children and of these the following are yet living: Sarah A., who is the widow of George Fronizer, resides in Green Creek Township; Mary, who is the widow of John Ziegler, resides at Fremont, Ohio; Caroline, who is the widow of John Hughes, resides at Clyde, Ohio; William, who resides at Fremont; George, whose home is in Colorado; and Charles F. When George Jacobs died, some two years since, Riley Township lost an estimable citizen. He was a worthy member of the German Lutheran Church. In politics he voted with the Democratic party.

C. F. Jacobs was only two years old when his mother died and to his sisters he is indebted for the care that brought him safely through childhood. He attended the district schools and enjoyed just as many advantages as did other country youths in that section, but these were far removed from those of the present day. He remembers the little log school house, with its slab seats and puncheon floor, but he also recalls that many very successful men of his day. have gained their first knowledge of the rudiments in just such places of learning. He worked for his father until his marriage and afterward made satisfactory arrangements. He is considered one of the township's best farmers, raising grain, hay and other products and enough stock for his own use.

Mr. Jacobs. was married (first) to Miss Amelia Schultz, who was born and died in Riley Township. He was married (second) to Miss Mary Danner, a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Danner, an old pioneer family, also of Riley Township. The father of Mrs. Jacobs is deceased, but her mother resides with Mr.

and Mrs. Jacobs. They have two children: Corinne L. and Carleton R. The family belong to the Lutheran Church. In politics, Mr. Jacobs is a Democrat and his fellow citizens have recognized his worth by electing him to township offices. He has been a valuable member of the School Board and served for three years as township trustee. He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows, belonging to the lodge at Fremont, Ohio.

HARRY G. EDGERTON, D. D. S., son of Chester Edgerton and Augusta Fusselman- Edgerton, was born in Fremont, Ohio, April 23, 1859. He was educated in the Fremont public schools, Oberlin College and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, graduating from the Department of Dentistry in the latter institution in June, 1881.

purchased the office of Dr. A. F. Price, whom he succeeded in the practice, permanently locating in Fremont, where he has continued in the practice of dentistry ever since. His office and laboratory are in the second story of the First National Bank building.

He married Miss Clara Meek, daughter of Basil and Martha Anderson-Meek, on January 29, 1884. To them have been born three daughters, Mary Basil Edgerton, wife of Henry Victor Zahm, Rachael Edgerton and Dorothy Edgerton, and one son, Henry Meek Edgerton.

Having purchased the beautiful suburban homestead of the Edgerton family, on the Greensburg road, known as Edgerton Place, Dr. Edgerton and family moved to the same March 1, 1909, from their pleasant home on Birchard Avenue, in the city, which they had occupied for many years.

_ THOMAS McCREERY, a representative citizen of Riley Township and one of the prosperous agriculturists of this section, owns 209 acres of valuable land, 149 of which is included in his home farm. He was born November 26, 1843, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, and is a son of Daniel S. and Mary E. (Yant) McCreery.

The parents of Mr. McCreery were natives of Ohio. In 1849 they came from Tuscarawas County to Sandusky County and settled for a short time in Townsend Township. Finding more desirable property in Riley Township, Daniel S. McCreery moved to a farm about two miles northwest of his son's present place, although at that time dense timber covered all this land. He was one of the early and: useful citizens of this neighborhood. At the time of his death he was living at Clyde, Ohio. He was constable of Riley Township for years and was known as a man who had a high sense of duty. Of his family of children the following survive: Sarah J., who is the wife of Edward Mintzer, of Riley Township; Thomas; Daniel S., who lives in Northwestern Kansas; Charles C., who resides at Dixon, Illinois ; Isaac R., who is a resident of Chicago; Samuel, who is a resident' of Toledo, Ohio; and Hannah, who is the wife of Edward Shoup and lives at Vickery, Ohio.

Thomas McCreery grew to manhood in Riley Township and attended school through boyhood. . He then gave assistance to his father until' 1863, when he enlisted for service in the Civil War, enrolling in Company K, tooth O. Vol. Inf. which was attached to the Army of the Potomac. In spite of the arduous service demanded of his regiment, in which he took part whenever called on, and also in spite of months of confinement in Confederate prison, Mr. McCreery lived to return home. He was captured after being in the service about one year, at Limestone Station, Tennessee, and during the next six months was transferred from the prison of Lynchburg to Libby and then to Belle Isle, and in the dungeons of the latter fortress was confined until he was at last exchanged. Mr. McCreery was honorably discharged at the end of his term of enlistment and has resided in Riley Township, quietly pursuing an agricultural life ever since. Mr. McCreery married Miss Mary M. Wright, who is a daughter of Orison Wright, who was a well known man in Riley Township, and they have three children: Lydia E., who is the wife of F. F. Meyer, of Townsend Township; Carmi A., who resides in Riley

In politics, Mr. McCreery is a Republican. He has served as a member of the township School Board and has taken a public-spirited interest in the progress of this section. He belongs to the order of Modern Woodmen. and attends the lodge at Vickery, Ohio.

FRANK IAMS, general farmer and oil producer,. resides on a farm of 160 acres, belonging to his brother Russell, which is situated in Washington Township, and owns a valuable tract of thirty acres, lying one mile west, on which two oil wells produce three barrels of oil daily. Mr. Iams was born in Ballville Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, March 17, 1855,

The Iams family was established in Sandusky County at an early date by Hugh Iams, the grandfather, who came from Pennsylvania. It has always' been an agricultural one.' To Jasper Iamis and wife were born the following children: Harriet, Elizabeth, John, Mary, Minerva, Frank, Sarah, Russell, Jesse, Marsella and Elta.

Frank Iams obtained a district school education and was trained in agricultural work on his father's farm. He has given his main attention to tilling the soil and on both his brother's land and his own successfully produces excellent crops of corn, wheat, oats and hay and raises stock for home use. _

On January 1, 1877, Mr. lams was married to Miss Emma Saam, 'the second daughter of William and Susan (Kessler) Saani, of Sandusky County. Mrs. Iams'has five sisters and two brothers: Elizabeth, Mahala, Ida, Fannie, Carrie, Frank and William. "Mr. and Mrs. Iams have one daughter, Alice, who married Albert Balsizer and they reside with Mr. and Mrs. Iams, Mr. Iams and family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church: In politics he is a Republican. © Fraternally, he is identified with the K. O. T, M.

a carpenter and contractor for many years, was born June 25, 1853, in Riley Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, and is a son of Joseph and Johanna (Fockler) Hofelich.

The parents of Mr. Hofelich were born in Germany and came to America in 1851. For one year they lived in Seneca County, Ohio, but in 1852 settled permanently in Riley Township, Sandusky County. They were pioneers in this section, their first land being a tract of woods near the present site of Erlin. From this farm they moved to one in another part of the township, and there the father died in 1900, the mother having passed away in 1888. They had the .following children: Charles, living in Riley Township; George, deceased; Theresa, living at Fremont; and Francis S. and Joseph, living in Riley Township. In politics, the late Joseph Hofelich was a Democrat. He became a man of standing in his neighborhood and served as township trustee.

Joseph Hofelich, the second, was born, reared and educated in Riley Township 'and he remained at home assisting his father until he was seventeen years of age, when he began carpenter work, for which he had a natural inclination, and. for thirty-five years he devoted himself very closely to work as a carpenter and contractor. All over Riley Township may be found excellent specimens of his skill, four of the modern school-houses having been erected by him, while many comfortable farm-houses and substantial barns were put up under his supervision. He continued in this work until 1907, since when he has had his attention centered on his farm, where he grows excellent crops and raises fine stock. For some seventeen years he has been more or less interested in agricultural pursuits without devoting himseli especially to them. He owns a well improved farm of seventy-five acres.

Mr. Hofelich married Miss Emma Hildwein, whose father, Christian Hildwein, twas long a resident of Green Creek Township, where he died in 1908. Mr. and Mrs. Hofelich have five children: William, Walter, who married Anna Martin, and has a son, Ray; Rudolph E.; Arthur; Ella and Hilda N. In politics Mr. Hofelich is a Democrat.

DANIEL ROONEY, a member of the Fremont City Council, representing the Second Ward, conducts the old established blacksmith shop of D. Rooney. This old landmark is situated on North Front and North Arch Streets, running through from one to the other, there being an entrance on both streets. Mr. Rooney was born at Boston, Massachusetts, July 17, 1870, and is a son of Daniel and Mary ( Walsh) Rooney.

The father of Mr. Rooney moved to Fremont, Ohio, in 1874, and started into the horseshoeing business, establishing himself in the shop over which his son presides and which is owned by his widow. He was a fine blacksmith and a horseshoer of unusual skill, having such a reputation in the latter art that men brought their fine roadsters many miles in order to have him shoe them, willing to pay good prices. He died in November, 1903.

Daniel Rooney grew up at Fremont, attending school through boyhood, and later learned the blacksmith and horseshoeing trades with his father. He also is considered very skillful.

politics he is a Democrat and for seven years he has acceptably filled a seat in the city council, where he carefully looks after the intérests of the Second Ward. He belongs to the Knights of Columbus.

JAMES E. VAN NESS, residing on his valuable farm of 106 acres, which is situated seven miles west of Fremont and in Washington Township, Sandusky County, is a representative citizen of this section. He was born February 25, 1853, on a farm in Sandusky Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, and is a son of Samuel C. and Mary (Grundy) Van Ness.

The Van Ness ancestry can be traced to Holland, where the grandfather, Simon Van Ness, and wife were both born. They were brought to America when young and early became residents of Sandusky County and. both died in Sandusky Township.

Mr. And Mrs. James E, Van Ness And Family

had the following children: James E.; Elsie, born December 25, 1855, died January 10, 1856; Mary J., born January 29, 1857; Emily J., born August 4, 1859, died May 17, 1904; Leroy W., born March 29, 1862, died November 10, 1885; Laura J., born July 28, 1864, died February 5, 1899; John L., born March 23, 1867; and Alta L., born September 29, 1869. In 1856, Samuel Van Ness moved to Iowa and remained there one year and then came back to Sandusky County and settled first on a rented farm in Rice Township, but one year later bought a farm in Riley Township, on which the family lived until 1862, when Mr. Van Ness sold it and moved to Green Creek Township.

until he was sixteen years of age, after which he gave his entire time to helping his father on the farm. After his marriage he purchased a farm on which he has resided ever since. He devotes all of his farm except eight acres, which are still timbered, to growing wheat, oats, corn and hay, with enough stock and cattle for his own use. He has greatly improved his property and has recently completed a fine house and barn.

In 1875, Mr. Van Ness was married to Miss Ellen M. Burkett, of Hessville, and they have the following children: Herman W., barn June 14, 1876; Alverna E., born February 12, 1878; James E., Jr., born May 22, 1880; Emmet E., born February 3, 1883; Jesse L., born April 13, 1885; Gertrude M., born September 21, 1887; Ethel E., born June 1, 1891; Mattie V., born June 20, 1895; and Robert I., born December 2, 1897. Mr. Van Ness and wife are members of the Reformed Church. In politics he is a Democrat and frequently has been elected to important township offices, and served three years as township trustee and for two years as road master.

PHILIP SIEGENTHALER, one of Rice Township's leading citizens and prosperous farmers and stockraisers, who owns 262 acres of valuable land in this township, resides on the home farm of 108 acres in Section 31, on which he was born June 26, 1847, and is a son of William and Leah (Hummel) Siegenthaler.

William Siegenthaler was born in Germany and came to America before his marriage. His wife was a native of Pennsylvania, and when they came as pioneers to Rice Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, they settled on wild, uncleared land, which, through their industry and perseverance, was transformed into some of the most valuable property in the township. They were worthy members of the Lutheran Church and lived quiet, exemplary lives and passed away respected and beloved. William Siegenthaler died March 26, 1874, and was survived by his widow until November 1, 1881. Of their children, the following are yet living: Francis, of Fremont; Henry, of Rice Township ; Lydia, wife of Daniel Kreilick, of Ottawa County; Philip; Catherine, wife of George Cook, of Sandusky Township; George, of Fremont; and Rebecca, wife of John Stierwalt, of Sandusky Township.

Philip Siegenthaler has devoted his life to farming, no other occupation ever having had any attractions for him. He owns land and stock and thoroughly understands the tilling of the former and the raising of the latter. He married Miss Angeline Gnepper, a daughter of the late Ernest Gnepper, of Rice Township, and ten children have been born to them, eight of whom survive, as follows: Frank E., John W., Frederick L., Mary R., Cora E., Chester P., Calvin C. and Margaret L. George W. and Charles H. are deceased. In politics Mr. Siegenthaler is a Democrat. |

JOACHIM MEYERS, a substantial farmer of Washington Township, residing on his farm of sixty-seven acres located four miles west of Fremont, was born July 29, 1836, in Germany, and is a son of Joachim and Dorothy Meyers, both natives of Germany.

died previously, and located in Washington Township, Sandusky County, Ohio. During the first three years after locating here he worked for Daniel Wolfe on his farm near Green Springs, then purchased from Philip Grisman his present farm of sixty-seven acres in Washington Township, where he has since resided and followed farming in a general way. Mr. Meyers had one brother, Christopher, now deceased.

'Joachim Meyers was united in marriage in 1866 in Germany with Dora T. Wittenburg, a daughter of John Wittenburg, who lived and died in Germany. To Mr. aud Mrs. Meyers were born the following children: Mary, the deceased wife of Henry Bernard of Riley Township; Albert, who married Anna Van Ness, and is a resident of Washington Township; Sophia, the wife of Edward Smitka, of Fremont, Ohio; Louisa, who married Joseph Cornelious, of Cleveland, Ohio; and Emma, who married William Parlow, of Fremont, Ohio. Mrs. Meyers died when past sixty years of age. Mr. Meyers is a democrat politically, and holds membership with the Lutheran Church.

BURTON GIBBS, a well known citizen of Clyde, Ohio, who has been engaged in agricultural pursuits throughout his active career, is the owner of a fine farm of 127 acres located in Riley Township, Sandusky County. He was born in that township January 11, 1856, and is a son of Jason and Elizabeth (Coonrod) Gibbs, and a grandson of Jonas and Rachel Gibbs.

Jonas Gibbs, with his wife, came from New York state and settled in the woods of Riley Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, in 1812. They were among the pioneers, wrought a home from the wilderness and resided there until their, respective deaths.

Jason Gibbs was born and always. resided in Riley Township. He was the owner of a good farming property, having at the time of his death, January 9, 1905, more than 1,100 acres here and 848 acres in Tennessee. He and his wife, who also was a native of Sandusky County, having been born in Green Creek Township, became parents of the following children: Albert, of Riley Township; Luther,

Burton Gibbs was reared to manhood in Riley Township and received a good common school education. Since early youth he has followed general farming and stock raising and has been highly successful. His farm of 127 acres is under a high state of cultivation and is well improved throughout. . He is a Republican in politics, and is recognized as a progressive and public-spirited citizen.

September 15, 1875, Mr. Gibbs was united in marriage with Miss Jennie E. Beebe, who was born in Riley Township, and is a daughter of William and Jane Beebe. They have two sons, namely: Charles A., who lives in Riley Township; and William J., who is proprietor of a drug store in Clyde. Charles A. married Nellie McCormick, and they have three children, Lawrence M., Rena and Helen.

Fraternally, the subject of this sketch is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America at Vickery, and of the Knights of the Maccabees at Clyde.

HENRY BUSCH, M. D., who conducted a drug store in Woodville, Ohio, until July 1, 1909, when he sold out 'to C. F.. Assenheimer, has been for a period of more than forty years engaged in the practice of medicine in that village, but is now practically retired. He was born in Germany in 1840, being one of eleven children of Adolph and Elizabeth (Crecelius) Busch. His father was a minister of the Lutheran Church and passed his entire life in Germany.

to the United States and for a period of ten months was engaged in practice at Elmore, In December, 1866, he moved to Woodville, where he succeeded to the practice of Dr. Yeager, and he has the distinction at the present time of being the oldest physician in the village. He is a Democrat in politics and has . been township treasurer eleven years, a mem-

Dr. Busch was married to Miss Sophia Cronenwett, a daughter of Rev. George Cronenwett, who was one of the early settlers, coming to this community as éarly as 1841 and fora period of forty-seven years serving as pastor of the German Lutheran Church. Eight children were born to Doctor and Mrs. Busch, namely: one who died in infancy; Henrietta; Elizabeth, wife of C. F. Soldan, a druggist at Macon, Missouri; Sophia, wife of Rev. Bartz, of Oak Harbor; Magdalena, wife of Rev. C. L. Dryer of near Elmore; Freida, who is at home; Karl, professor of mathematics and sciences in the Lutheran Seminary at St. Paul, who married Miss Lulu Snapp, daughter of Rev. Snapp, of Osnaburg, near Canton; and Alma, who is at home. Religiously, the family belongs to the German Lutheran Church.

HOSEA V. WRIGHT, whose well improved farm of 130 acres is situated in Section 10, Riley Township, is one of the representative men of this neighborhood. He was born in Riley Township, Sandusky County, Ohio. March 23, 1862, and is a son of Gustavus A. and Mary (Gibbs) Wright.

The Wright family is numbered with the old and substantial ones of the county. Gustavus A. Wright, father of Hosea V., has spent his whole life in Riley Township, devoting himself through all his active years to agricultural pursuits.

Hosea V. Wright attended the township schools and enjoyed one term in the Normal School at Ada, Ohio, after which he taught school for three terms. He then embarked in the mercantile business, in which he continued for several years and then turned his attention to farming and stock raising. His land is valuable for both purposes and he has made many excellent improvements.

Mr. Wright was married December 25, 1889, to Miss Nellie G. Prentice, of Townsend Township, Sandusky County, a daughter of Manassah and Wealthy Prentice. The father of Mrs. Wright is deceased, but the venerable mother,

Townsend Township. Mr. and Mrs. Wright have had nine children, namely: Vernon P., Idella G., Clifford E., Roswell G., Elsie M., Clarence, Leland H., Howard V. and Blanch, all surviving except Elsie M. Mr. Wright and family are members of the United Brethren Church, in which he is serving as a trustee. In politics he is-a Democrat and on that ticket he was elected township trustee and served threeyears. In all relations of life he is an honorable, upright man and enjoys the confidence. and respect of his fellow citizens.

T. A. LANG, cashier ,of the Colonial Savings Bank and Trust Company, of Fremont, has been identified with this financial institution since it was organized, July 1, 1904, having previously had considerable banking experience. Mr. Lang was born December 5, 1861, in what is now the Sandusky County Court House, at Fremont, but which was then the parsonage of St. John's Lutheran Church, of which his father was the pastor. His parents were Rev. Henry and Mary (Beilharz) Lang.

The late Rev. Henry Lang was born in Germany and in boyhood was brought to America bv his parents. He was a man of scholarly attainments, having been educated in Capital University, at Columbus, Ohio, and came direct from collegiate surroundings to Fremont, where he organized St. John's Lutheran Church and became its pastor, serving in that capacity until his death, forty-seven years later, in 1880. He married Mary Beilharz, who died in 1865. They had a family of nine children, six of whom survive.

T. A. Lang was educated in the Fremont schools and after completing the high school course entered the employ of the Farmer's Bank, at Fremont, with which he continued to be identified for eighteen years, being its cashier during a large portion of the time. The Colonial Savings Bank and Trust Company took over the Farmer's Bank and Mr. Lang became assistant cashier and later cashier. He has been a lifelong resident of his native city and his whole period of business life has been connected with banking.

FRANK J. HEIM, president of the Safe Storm Shield Company, the Fremont Power and Light Company, and also of the Sandusky County Building and Loan Company, is one of Fremont's most progressive, prominent and liberal citizens. New York, February 26, 1852, and is a son of Albert and Margaret (Malkamus) Heim.

The parents of Mr. Heim were natives of Germany, where they grew to maturity and married and subsequently came to the United States. Until they came to Fremont, Ohio, in 1852, they resided in New York. Here they lived quiet, worthy, industrious, self-respecting lives. The father followed the carpenter's trade in this city for about seventeen years. His death took place in November, 1869, his widow surviving until 1891. They had the following children: Frank J., Joseph, William B., of the mercantile firm of Heim & Barnum, Clara, Henry and Charles.

Frank J. Heim may almost be numbered with Fremont's native sons as he has lived here ever since he was one year old, and for so long a time has been so useful and publicspirited a citizen, that none would deny him the honor. He early developed an aptitude for business and when eighteen years old was conducting one of his own. In 1876 he purchased an interest in the Fremont Brewery Company, becoming its president, and has been identified with other prosperous business enterprises. He was active in securing the electric light and power plant for Fremont and was president of that company. He is president of the Opera House Company, which controls the leading amusements of the higher class, brought to this city. In 1890, when oil was first discovered in the western part of the county, Mr. Heim was one of the first to become financially interested. In,1882, with L. W. Butman he secured the first telephone franchise to operate in Fremont, it

Mr. Heim was married March 27, 1891, to Miss Delila Soward, a daughter of Thomas Soward, of Seneca County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Heim have an adopted daughter, Olivia. Mr. and Mrs. Heim are members of the Roman Catholic Church. Mr. Heim has always commanded the respect and esteem of those with whom he has come into contact in business or social life.

FRANK. E. COONROD, the popular and efficient manager of the Ottawa Shooting Club House and superintendent of the buildings and grounds, the latter of which include about 3,200 acres situated in Rice Township, Sandusky County, was born September 23, 1870, in Riley Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, and is a son of Henry and Nancy (Ellis) Coonrod.

Henry Coonrod for many years was a prominent citizen of Sandusky County, serving as sheriff for four years and later as manager for the Ottawa Shooting Club. He has reached his seventy-fifth year and is retired from all active pursuits, making his home with his son, Frank E. The mother of the latter died in December, 1908.

Frank E. Coonrod was about five years old when his parents moved from Riley Township to Fremont and there the youth was educated. When 15 years old his father became manager for the Ottawa Shooting Club and the family then returned to the country and in the course of years, Mr. Coonrod was entrusted with his present responsible duties. The Ottawa Shooting Club was organized in 1872, by about fifty capitalists, mostly from Cleveland, Ohio, for the purpose of comfortably enjoying hunting, fishing and bathing. They own luxuriously fitted quarters and on their own grounds have every facility for out-door enjoyment. Mr. Coonrod's long experience has particularly well fitted him for the position he fills.

On January 9, 1900, Mr. Coonrod was married to Miss Etta Fern Jones, who was born in Riley Township and is a daughter of Lewis Jones. They have two children, Donald L. and Clifford C. In politics Mr. Coonrod, like his father, is identified with the Democratic party.

Frank J. Heim

BENJAMIN J. BURKETT, manager and one of the organizers of the Farmers' Mercantile and Elevator Company of Lindsey, which was established in 1907, was born January 24, 1882, at Lindsey, Ohio, and is a'son of Solomon and Amelia (Schleis) Burkett.

Solomon Burkett, the father, was born in Perry County, Ohio, and at the age of two and a half years came to Sandusky County, Ohio, with his parents. He resided here the rest of his life, his death occurring December 22, 1896. He is still survived by his widow, who was in maiden life, Amelia Schleis, and a native of Austria-Hungary. They were the parents of five children: Minnie M., Cora E., Solomon, Hattie,and Benjamin, the subject of this record.

Benjamin J. Burkett received his primary education in the schools of Lindsey, where he was reared, later taking a business ccurse at the business college at Fremont, Ohio, and at Heidelberg College. After leaving school he acted as manager of the Fremont Telepticne Company for two years and in 1907 upon the organization of the Farmers' Mercantile and Elevator Company, of which he was one of the promoters, he became manager of that Company, which position he still retains.

October 21, 1908, Mr. Burkett was united in marriage with Edith May Overmyer, a daughter of Aaron and Mary Overmyer of Elmore, Ottawa County, Ohio. Mrs. Burkett was one of a family of five children born to her parents, the others being Madie, Ivrin, Cora and Mabel.

Mr. Burkett is politically an ardent Democrat but votes independently, and takes an active interest in the affairs of his party. He is fraternally a Modern Woodman of America, and religiously holds membership with the Evangelical Church. He is also a director and assistant cashier of the German Banking Company of Lindsey.

FRANK P. SMITH, the efficient superintendent of the Sandusky County Infirmary, has served in this difficult and responsible public office since his appointment in 1896, giving to the board of directors and the people at large an administration entirely satisfactory in every particular. Mr. Smith was born in Ballville Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, July 27, 1855, and is a son of John and Eleanor (Bowland) Smith.

Mr. Smith grew to manhood on his father's farm and from the township schools went to Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio, enjoying a year of instruction there. He also was a student for a time at the Ohio Normal University at Ada. He then engaged in farming in Ballville Township. and continued agricultural pursuits until he was appointed to his present office. The Sandusky County Infirmary has the following prominent citizens on its board of directors: D. E. Dieffenbach, president; John Hilt, vice-president, and Peter Stepniak, clerk. There' are 270 acres here and the property is farmed under Mr. Smith's superintendence.

On December 28, 1876, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Laura A. Spayde, born in Ballville Township, a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Armstrong) Spayde, and two children have been born to this marriage, Homer L. and Cleve F. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Mt. Lebanon United Brethren Church at East Ballville, Ohio, of which he is a trustee. In politics, Mr. Smith is a Democrat and prior to accepting his present office, served three years as a trustee of Ballville Township He is well known all over the county and has a wide circle of appreciative friends both in official and private life.

LEWIS DONNELS, residing on his valuable farm of 120 acres, situated in section 27, Madison Township, was born in this township, Sandusky County, Ohio, July 12, 1867, and is. a son of J. L. and Catherine (Bowser) Donnels. j

Mr. Donnels attended school at Gibsonburg and then assisted his father on the home farm in Madison Township, until he was twenty-one years of age, when he went to work for himself. He first rented eighty acres, and then bought the eighty and forty acres more, on the east side of the road. He has continued to live on this farm, which he has improved and drained throughout. As a side line he does consider-

On September 28, 1890, Mr. Donnels was married to Miss Susan Lattimore, a daughter of Thomas and Susan Lattimore, and they have two children, Clarence and Alta. Mr. Donnels and family attend the Disciples Church. He is a stockholder in the Home Banking Company of Gibsonburg. In politics, Mr. Donnels is a Democrat and }n 1908 was a candidate for nomination for county commissioner, but unexpected circumstances brought about his defeat at the primary election. He is serving in his second term as township trustee and is one of the township's representative men. Mr. Donnels is a member of the K. O. T. M.

EDWARD H. BUCHMAN, who was elected clerk of the courts of Sandusky County, Ohio, in November, 1908, by a majority of 1161 votes over his Republican opponent, Robert Halley, is one of the enterprising and representative young men of Fremont, in which place he resides with his widowed mother, at No. 918 Ewing Street. Mr. Buchman was born in Sandusky County, Ohio, September 13, 1877, being one of a family of seven children born to his parents, George and Catherine (Miller) Buchman.

His grandparents on the paternal side were John and Margaret (Shunk) Buchman, who settled in the county as early as 1843. Of their family of seven children but two are now living - Nicholas of Bowling Green, and Mrs. John Foos of Helena.

George Buchman, father of Edward H., was born in Sandusky County, in which he spent his entire life, being engaged in agricultural pursuits during his industrial period. He was very successful in his. chosen vocation and was numbered among the well known men of the county. His death occurred October 4th, 1903, when he was in his fifty-ninth year. He had lived on the same farm in Washington Township for fifty-six years and few citizens of the township, if any, were more highly respected. He took an active and beneficial part in public 'affairs and at different times held various township offices, the duties of which he performed with conscientious thoroughness. He was before the people twice as a candidate for county commissioner. For fourteen years he held the office of adjuster for the Farmers' Mutual Relief Association of Sandusky County, Ohio. Mr. Buchman was a native of Rice Tcwnslip, his parents moving to Washington Township when he was two years old. His wife, as already intimated, was in maidenhood, Catherine Miller, and their family numbered seven children: Peter A., Edward H., George F., Albert J., Rosa A., Clara A., and Mary Buchman Binsack.

public schools. After leaving school he was engaged in farming until 1899, when he was compelled on account of failing health to give up agricultural work. He then entered the business college in Fremont and took a complete commercial course, fitting himself for office work. He has been active in Democratic politics, has been loyal to his friends, and his election to the office of clerk of courts has already been narrated. Mr. Buchman is a very popular official and has proved himself to be thoroughly competent for the responsible position he holds. His duties bring him into contact with people from all parts of the county and his ready service and courteous manner make him a favorite with all. .

LUTHER MOONEY, one. of the best known residents of Riley Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, has resided on his present farm in section 29 since 1852. He was born in Carroll County, Ohio, March 5, 1847, and is a (Hartong) Mooney, both natives of Pennsylvania.

.. In the spring of 1848, Jacob Mooney moved with his family to Sandusky County, Ohio, and for a time lived in Sandusky Township. In 1852 he moved to the farm in Riley Township now owned by his son, Luther, and there passed the remainder of his days. He died in 1862 and was survived many years by his widow, who died in 1890. Three of their chil- Benjamin, who makes his home in Fulton County, Ohio; David, whe

Luther Mooney was about fourteen months old at the time his parents moved to Sandusky County, and was reared to maturity in Riley Township. He attended the local schools and worked on the home farm in his youthful days, early becoming used to hard work. Farming has always been his occupation, and his farm of forty-seven acres in section 29 is one of the best kept up in that vicinity. He is a Republican in politics, and although he has never been a seeker for office has taken an active interest in public affairs.

He was married March 30, 1871, to Miss Hortense M. Bement, a native of Fostoria, Ohio, and they have had five children: Linden B., deceased; Dwight R., of Sandusky Township; Ralph L., of Riley Township; Ivan C., of Riley Township; and Elsie J. Mrs. Mooney is a daughter of George D. and Margaret Jane (Huss) Bement. She was three months old when her father died and she was at that age taken by her mother to Green Creek Township, Sandusky County, where she was reared and lived until her marriage. The mother of Mrs. Mooney died in 1903. The family is affiliated with the Reformed Church at Fremont.

RALPH BRUNTHAVER, residing on 120 acres of some of the finest land in Green Creek Township, lying on the western boundary line, devotes it to agricultural uses and is one of the township's substantial and enterprising men. He was born on this farm in Sandusky County, Ohio, February 29, 1876, and is a son of Lewis and Lorena (Forgueson) Brunthaver.

Adam Brunthaver, the grandfather, was born in Germany, and emigrated to America and settled first in Pennsylvania. In early manhood, he came to Ohio and remained in Fairfield County until after his first marriage, when he came to Sandusky County, settling in the woods of Green Creek Township, and there spent the rest of his life, dying in 1861, aged 72 years. He had served as a soldier in the War of 1812. He was married a second time, to Mary Smith, who survived until 1904, dying

Lewis Brunthaver was born in Green Creek Township, Sandusky County, a son of Adam and Mary (Smith) Brunthaver, spent his whole life in the same place and died January 7, 1907, aged 69 years. He married Lorena Forgueson, who died June 5, 1907, aged 63 years and 6 months. They had four children, namely: Ledora, who is now deceased; Eleanora, who is the wife of J. P. Elmers, of Ottawa County, Ohio; Grant, who is now deceased; and Ralph. Ledora and Grant died an hour apart, from black diphtheria, and both were buried in the same casket.

Raiph Brunthaver spent his boyhvod on his present farm and 'was educated in the district schools and Green Spring Academy. He began farm work as soon as he left school, he and his father cultivating the home place together and when his father died he came into possession of a part of the property. He had but little improving to do as his father had put up all the substantial buildings, including the handsome brick residence of seven rooms which stands at the corner of the Finefrock farm and the township line road.

On June 30, 1907, Mr. Brunthaver was married to Miss Blanche Bradford, a daughter of Ransom R. and Elizabeth (Rapp) Bradford, the former of whom was born and reared in Trumbull County and the latter in Hancock County, Ohio. The Bradford family came to barn, reared and educated. Mr. and Mrs. Brunthaver have one son, Carroll G., who was born November 14, 1908. In politics, he is a Democrat and fraternally he belongs to the Elks and to the Woodmen of the World, being identified with both organizations at Fremont. Mr. Brunthaver is a worthy representative of one of the solid old families of this section.

THOMAS COCHRAN, deceased, for many years was one of Rice Township's valued citizens, for more than a quarter of a century being successfully engaged in farming and fruit growing here. Thomas Cochran was born in Perry County, Ohio, December 22,

Mr. Cochran was a small boy when his parents, John and Margaret Cochran, brought him to Ballville Township, Sandusky County, and there he grew to manhood. He attended the district schools to some extent, but from boyhood practically took care of himself, and the property which he later owned was acquired through his own efforts. In 1876 he moved from Ballville Township to Rice Township, Sandusky County, and at that time settled on the farm on which his widow and children yet reside. He put his land under fine cultivation and raised the usual crop of this section, but he made fruit growing a feature and was one of the most extensive raisers of fine peaches in this county. At one time he had an orchard of 3,000 peach trees all bearing. He gave his personal attention to his trees, understood their care and their enemies and the abundance and lusciousness of his fruit amply rewarded him.

Mr. Cochran was married (first) May 24, 1857, to Miss Viola Smith, by whom he had three daughters: Vina M., Hattie L. and Flora O. Mr. Cochran was married (second) December 29, 1869, to Miss Mary J. Wright, and five children were born to this union, namely: John T., born September 26, 1873, and was formerly. a popular school teacher in Rice Township, also in Bay Township, Ottawa County ; Edmund F., born April 27, 1876; Nettie, born June 16, 1879; Roland O., born October 16, 1889; and Mabel E., born May 20, 1893.

In politics Mr. Cochran was never .deeply interested, but cast his vote with the Republican party. He was a member of the Odd Fellows and was identified with the Fremont Lodge. -His death removed from Rice Township one of her best men. In the home circle he was kind and considerate and in his neighborhood he was known as one whose friendship was a matter of deeds as well as words.

Mr. Ferguson was born in Fitchville, Huron County, Ohio, February 21, 1846, and there attended school until he was eight years old, and in Sandusky, Seneca and Henry Counties until he was twelve years old, at which early age he went out to make his own way in the world, although he continued to live with his parents. He worked on various farms until September 5, 1861, when he enlisted at Tiffin, Ohio, as a member of Company K, 4gth O. Vol. Inf., under Col. W. H. Gibson. He served in many of the hardest fought engagements of the war and five times was taken prisoner. At Murfreesboro he was in the Confederates' hands about three hours, when he knocked one of them down and attempted to make his escape, but was recaptured. During that fight he was in the hands of the enemy five different times, being recaptured by the Union cavalry four different times. In a hand to hand fight with Longstreet's Mississippi Tigers, he was struck on the head by a Southern soldier, who after knocking him down was about to stab him with a bayonet when shot by the captain of Company K, Thos. J. Ray. He was honorably discharged November 30, 1865, at Victoria, Texas, and was paid off and finally discharged at Camp Chase, Columbus, Ohio, on December 30th of that year.

After the war, Mr. Ferguson returned to the home of his parents, then at Claypool, Indiana, and worked at farming by the month in that vicinity. In August, 1866, the family moved to Castalia, in Erie County, Ohio, and there our subject worked in a paper mill one year. In 1867, he went to work on the farm of W. M. Mugg on South Ridge, about five miles from Clyde, and on March 25, 1868, was married to Mary A. Chapman, who was a daughter of James Chapman. He continued to live on the Mugg farm two years after his marriage, and then for two years rented the Henry Niles farm in Seneca County on shares. They then moved updn the farm owned by his father-in-law and known as the Botsford farm, on which they lived for three years. In the meantime, on September 10, 1873, Mrs. Ferguson died and was laid to rest in the cemetery at. Wales Corners. In 1875, Mr. Ferguson moved to Clyde, where he engaged in carpentering and novelty work until 1880, and then moved to Rocky Ridge, Ottawa County, Ohio, where he continued carpentering for ten years. In June, 1890, he moved to Gibsonburg, where he _ has since lived. In July, 1890, he was elected a member of the village council, and at the end of his term was re-elected, serving as such for two years. He was then elected marshal of the village and served until 1898, a period of four years. On June 1, 1898, he took charge of the post office under appointment of President McKinley, and has since discharged the duties of that office in a highly capable manner. He was a member of the board of health several years, chairman of the Soldiers' Relief Committee fourteen years, and also chairman of the Soldiers' Burying Committee.

A. E. and Mary A. (Chapman) Ferguson became parents of the following children: Milo H., of Marion, Indiana, who married Emma Hardman, of Gibsonburg, and has two children, Arthur and Claire; Delle J., who married L. W. Benadum, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and has four children, Aubry, Marjorie, Lyndon and William Harvey; Grace A., who is the wife of G. J. Snyder, and has two children - Howard and Ruth; and Chloe, who is deceased. Mr. Ferguson formed a second marital union December 25, 1873, with Miss Elizabeth Rhodes, a daughter of Coonrod and Nancy Rhodes. Mrs. Ferguson died January 15, 1909, having been an invalid from September 24, 1908, and she was buried in the Fremont Cemetery.

Mr. Ferguson is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was one of the trustees at the time the church was rebuilt, serving on the building committee. He was also on the building committee when the town hall and opera house was remodeled, and was a trustee of the Odd Fellows Lodge and on the building committee when the I. O. O. F. Block was built. He has been a member of this order for many years, has passed through the chairs five times, and is at present District Deputy Grand Master. He is a member of Canfield Post, No. 124, G. A. R., and is serving his seventh term as commander..

FRANKLIN DECKER is a prosperous far- . mer of Ballvilie Township and has resided continuously on his present farm since 1861. He was born in Pleasant Township, Seneca County, Ohio, February 18, 1843, and is a son of B. F. and Elizabeth (Myers) Decker, early settlers of that county.

B. F. Decker was born in Pensylvania in 1815, and died in Sandusky County, Ohio, May 10, 1901. His wife was born in 1823, and died December 15, 1889. About the year 1845 they moved to Ballville Township, Sandusky County, Ohio, and purchased a farm of 150 acres along the Sandusky River. In 1861 they sold that place and bought 320 acres which still remains in the family and on a part of which the subject of this record lives. They became parents of the following children: Franklin and Francis, twins; Melissa, widow of Orvan Frey; Caroline, wife of William Miller; Alonzo, and Burlington.

Franklin Decker was about two years of age when his parents moved from Seneca County to Baliville Township, and here he has resided ever since. He received a good common school education and early in life took to.agricultural pursuits, which has been his life occupation. He has taken an active interest in the affairs of the community and for some years served as a member of the School Board.

On January 18, 1872, Mr. Decker was united in marriage at Fremont with Miss: Elizabeth Billau, who was born in that city March 15, 1852, and died August 26, 1908. She was a daughter of Sebastian and Susan Billau, coming from an old and prominent family in this vicinity. The Billaus in the early days owned the land where the public square in the city of Cleveland is now located. The parents of Mrs. Decker owned a large part of the land on which Fremont is located and were promin- ent among the early residents of that city. Our subject and his wife became parents of the following children: Lewis, who was born May 5, 1873, operates the home farm, and married Clara Ott, a daughter of Charles and Sarah Ott, and they have one daughter, Gladys; Edith, who married Arthur Hite of Sandusky Township, and they have four children: Clyde, Dorothea, Forest and Harriet; Charles, who is located in Oklahoma, married Kate Manchester, and they have had three children: Edward, Janita, and one that died in infancy; Mercedes, who is now deceased, married Lee Wadsworth, and their deaths occurred within an hour of each other, from typhoid fever, on March 18, 1908, both at the age of 24 year's and being survived by two children, Helen and Howard; Aimee, who married Wilbur Somers, of Sandusky County, and they have two sons, Robert and Stanley; and Robert Franklin, who died in 1899, aged two months.

FREDERICK SMITH, one of Sandusky Township's most respected German-American citizens and old settlers of Sandusky County, resides on his farm of forty-eight and one-half acres, situated in Section 22, and also owns two farms, in Rice Township, one of 160 acres, and another of nearly forty acres. He was born in Baden, Germany, June 2, 1829, and is a son of John and Catherine (Ernst) Smith.

In 4833, when Frederick Smith was 4 years old, his parents emigrated to America. They came as did others, with the hope of bettering their condition, although John Smith possessed some capital and was able to enter 150 acres of Government land, in Rice Township. It was heavily wooded at the time and years went by before it was entirely cleared and under cultivation and Frederick did a large amount of pioneer work, both for his father and for others and later for himself. The parents died in Rice Township and of their seven children, Frederick is the sole survivor. He had few early advantages, the country was too little settled at that time to afford them, and in large measure he is self taught. He continued to live in Rice Township until 1877, becoming a man of consequence there, one of the leading Democrats and was frequently elected to offices of trust and responsibility. He served- some years as a trustee of Rice Township and for six years was township treasurer. He then came to Sandusky Township and settled on his present farm and here he was also chosen for the responsible office of treasurer and served in it for eleven years.

On February 22, 1852, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Elizabeth Kiser, who was born in Lorraine, Germany, a daughter of Christian Kiser, who came to Sandusky County in the fifties, Mrs. Smith being 22 years old when she accompanied her brother, Carl Kiser, to this section. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have seven children, namely: Frederick, who lives at Los Angeles, California; Caroline, who is the wife of Louis Nichols, of Rice Township; Elizabeth, who lives in Sandusky Township; William J., who resides in Rice Township; Clara C., who is the wife of E. H. Ganz, county commissioner of Sandusky County; Amelia, who resides at home; and Edward, who lives at Erie, Pennsylvania. Mr. Smith and wife are members of St. Paul's Lutheran Church at Fremont.

JAMES D. BEMIS, M. D., a prominent representative of the medical fraternity of Fremont, Sandusky County, Ohio, was born at Elyria, this State, March 14, 1858, son of Eri and Lydia A. (Griswold) Bemis.

The father, Eri Bemis, was engaged in farming in Lorain County for a number of years previous to the Civil War. That momentous event changed the current of his life, which it also brought to a premature termination. Enlisting, in August, 1862, in Company E, First Ohio Light Artillery (Edgerton's Battery), he performed the duties of a good and patriotic soldier until his death, which occurred at Nashville, Tennessee, July 13, 1863; his remains were sent home to Elyria for burial. His

-wife, Mrs. Lydia A. Bemis, also died in comparatively early life, leaving four children, who were as yet unprepared ta begin the battle of life on their own account. They were respectively, Charles A., Hubert E., James D., and. Clara M., the last mentioned of whom is now

Dr. Griswold, of Elyria. He attended the schools of that city until he was about nine years old, and then became an inmate of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home at Xenia, Ohio, of which institution his uncle had just' been appointed superintendent. Here he remained until 1871, at which time - being then 13 years of age - he received from Lieut-Gov. J. C. Lee, the appointment of bill-room messenger for the Ohio Senate, which position he held for two years. During the State Constitutional Convention of 1873 and 1874 he was appointed page; and subsequently he received the appointment of acting assistant sergeantat-arms from M. R. Waite, president of the convention and afterwards chief justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.