Adams County, Indiana - The whole text, 1907 (part 12 of 16)

Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rupright as the years went by. These children are still living and are: William H., the president of the bank at Ossian, Indiana; Granville Wentz, a farmer of Preble township; Mary Alice, the wife of Alex White, of Wells county; Elizabeth, the wife of Samuel Kreigh, of Wells county; Susanna, the wife of John Rex, of Decatur; Matilda Jane, the wife of Felix Summers, of Wells county, and Ida, the wife of Sylvester Mills, of Wells county.

Mr. Rupright has held a number of important public offices. He was a deputy land appraiser in 1874-5, and a trustee of Preble township for eight years. He was appointed by the county commissioners as county assessor and served from 1873 to 1S74. Later, from 1880 to 1886, he served as a member of the board of county commissioners. He has always taken an active interest in all things for the betterment of his county and township, and through a busy life has doue much to promote the growth and advancement of Adams county. Although not .-; member of any church, he has given the churches of Adams and Wells counties his support and financial aid. He is now living a retired life, conscious of having played his part in the world's affairs to his credit and lasting satisfaction.

Rev. John H. Klausing

John H. Klausing, a clergyman of Adams county, has attained a high place in the affections and confidence of the people of the county, not only of his own denomination and church, but of other churches as well. He is the pastor of St. Paul's German Lutheran church in Preble township and of Zion's Lutheran church of Decatur. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, November g, 1867. He is a son of Charles Klausing, who died at Glenmore, Ohio, at seventy years of age. John Klausing was the seventh in order of birth in his father's family of eight children. He was reared in Cincinnati, where his parents lived some years following his birth. He gained his early education in the schools of Cincinnati and then entered Concordia College, at Fort Wayne. He studied in this institution six years. It was here that he began the foundations of his study preparatory for the ministry, to which profession he was destined. He was a careful and faithful student at Concordia College and after finishing his course entered the Concordia Theological Seminary at St. Louis, from which institution he was graduated three years later, in '1890. He begin at once the preaching of the gospel and his first charge was at Onawa, Iowa. He remained in charge of the German Lutheran church at Onawa for a year and then was given and accepted a call to the pastorate of the church of his denomination at Glenmore, Van Wert county, Ohio. This field gave him a wider range for his work and for his ambitions, and he was a faithful teacher of the Bible to his congregation at Glenmore for eight and one half years. Under his pastorate the church grew and prospered to a gratifying extent.

In January, 1900, he was called to the pulpit of St. Paul's church in Preble township, Adams county, Indiana, and he removed with his family to this new charge. He at once began a vigorous campaign to build up this church and was rewarded. He appreciated the need of a German Lutheran church in Decatur, there being many members of this faith in the city, and in 1902 he organized Zion's congregation and established a church. He is the pastor of this church in connection with his duties at St. Paul's church. Rev. Klausing was married in Cincinnati, September 3, 1890, to Miss Emma Berghegger, who was born in that city. He and his wife have become the parents of seven children : Walter, Carl, Florentina, John, George, Lydia and Lorna. The eldest of these children, Walter, is studying for the ministry and is a student at Concordia College, at Fort Wayne.

Both the Rev. Mr. Klausing and his wife are splendid types of Christians. He is devoted to his pastoral work and is ably assisted by his wife. Under his charge his church has grown and progressed financially. The congregation numbers four

Rev. Christian B. Preuss

The thriving congregation of the German Lutheran (Zion) church in Preble township, Adams county, is peculiarly fortunate in having so accomplished and able a pastor as the Rev. Christian B. Preuss. During the incumbency of the pulpit of Zion church by this clergyman the church has prospered to a most satisfactory degree. Rev. Preuss was born August 18, 1861, in the province of Brandenburg, Germany. He is a son of Christian F. and Mary (Schoenemann) Preuss. They were born and married in Germany and emigrated to the United States soon after the birth of their son Christian. After reaching this country the emigrants pushed west and settled on a farm in Shawano county, Wisconsin. When they reached their farm in this state their son was but three years of age. They lived on this farm until death ended their useful lives. Christian was the eldest of a family of six children. He lived on his father's farm and attended the Lutheran parochial school of his district. Later he entered the common schools of Shawano county and at seventeen decided to take up the studies that lead to a ministerial calling. He was encouraged in this resolve by his pious parents and the same year entered the Concordia Theological Seminar)- at Springfield, Illinois. He remained in this institution for several years and was graduated with the class of '8;. His career in the seminary was an exemplary one. He was a close and careful student and an intelligent observer. He got more out of his courses than the average student does and he was a source of pleasure to his professors, as well as to his fellow students. His work was an inspiration and served as a model for others.

His first charge after his graduation was at Avilla, Noble county, Indiana. He served the Avilla Lutheran congregation for about eight years and was then called to the pastorate of Zion Lutheran church in Preble township. During his incumbency of the pulpit of the Avilla Lutheran church he served also as pastor of the churches at Auburn and at Garrett. He began his duties with Zion's church October, 1893. This religious body is one of the oldest in northeastern Indiana. It was founded by members of the faith, who became pioneers in early times, and the church has been in existence since early in the nineteenth century. Since its organization the church has had many pastors and among them some of the most notable preachers of the gospel in the northeastern section of the state. It is a strong church body and its membership is about six hundred. In addition to and in connection with the church a parochial school is conducted, and this school numbers about seventy-five pupils. Rev. Preuss has ( proven a strong pastor. He is a man of firm and strong convictions. He is uncompromising and a fearless preacher and doer of the word. As a man he is esteemed by all who know him. He is a force for good in his community, and as a citizen he is exemplary.

Rev. Preuss was married at Avilla, Indiana, May 11, 1886, to Miss Emma Sodtmaiin, a native of Avilla. and the daughter of Fred and Margaret (Bcrkes) Sodtniann.

Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Preuss are the parents of ten children, nine of whom are living. These are: Martha, Emma, Paul, Esther, Mary, Walter, Martin, Arnold and Theodore. Benjamin, a son, died in infancy.

In 1902 the present church edifice was built. It is a brick structure, built at a con of fifteen thousand dollars and is thus one of the best in the county.

Robert Case

Among the men of Magley, Adams county, who have been of actual service to their fellow townsmen and who have achieved a fair degree of success is Robert Case, the present postmaster. He is a native of Bluffton, Indiana, and was born in that city January 8, 1856. His father was Almon Case and his mother was Mindwell (Hayes) Case. Both of his parents were among the early settlers of northeastern Indiana. They lived during the latter years of their lives in Wells county, where they died and are buried. Their son, Robert Case, was one of a family of eight children born to Almon Case and his wife. All of the children lived to reach maturity. Robert was the voun£rest of the family. His father had the distinction of erecting the first house built in Bluffton and also of keeping the first tavern in that city. The last ten years of his life he spent on his Wells county farm, engaged in agricultural pursuits.

Robert Case was reared in Bluffton. He spent his boyhood in that city and was educated in the common schools. After completing his elementary education he entered Notre Dame University at South Bend !*'r a course of study. Finishing his work at the university, he decided to return to his home and engage in farming. He did this and was a cultivator of the soil from 1875 until 1S84. In this latter year he gave up his farming and removed to Magley, where he engaged in the general mercantile business. He has continued this business in Magley with the exception of the year 1895 since he established it. In the year 1895-96 he engaged in the shoe and drug business with Adam Gilliom, but re-entered the general merchandise business at the close of this partnership arrangement.

. Since he opened his Magley store he has done a profitable business. His stock is suitable to the needs of his patronage, which is constantly growing. He is a judicious buyer and knows the needs and the preferences of the residents of Magley and of the farmers of his vicinity. He devotes all of his energies to the store he operates and has made it a paying proposition.

August 14, 1875, Mr. Case was married to Miss Sarah Arnold, who was born in Kirkland township, September 14, 1859. She is a daughter of August and Augusta (Jahn) Arnold, who were among the first settlers of Adams county. Mr. and Mrs. Case are the parents of seven children. Of this number Edward died in infancy. The living children are: Mindwell, George, Ralph, Irvin, Almon and Harold.

Air. Case is one of the substantial men of his community and takes a lively interest in the affairs of his township. He is in the van of all movements destined to increase the welfare of the township and advance the commercial and industrial interests of Adams county. He has taken an active part »n local politics and has served as postmaster of Magley continuously since locating in that village with the exception of the years he resided in Decatur. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, which he joined in 1877. and is a liberal supporter of the churches of his neighborhood.

William H. Teeple

For a quarter of a century the name of William H. Teeple has been known throughout northeastern Indiana as an educator. For this period he taught school in Adams county and in Van Wert county, Ohio, and gained for himself a name as an able educator and a patient, capable instructor of youth. He was born in Saint Mary's township, Adams county, January 26, 1855. He is the son of John E. Teeple, who is still living, and his mother was Miss Catherine Smith. His father was born in Morrow county, Ohio, January 22, 1831. His mother was born in Saint Mary's township, January 1, 1835. After their marriage they settled in Saint Mary's township, where they continued to reside. Seven children came to bless their union: William H., Judson \Y\, Sarah J., the wife of the Rev. J. E. Stoops: Zachariah T.. Martha E., the wife of James L. Gay: Mary A., the wife of Jason L. Moser, and Benjamin B.

William H. Teeple was the eldest of his father's children. He was reared on the family homestead in Saint Mary's township. His early education was secured in the district schools of his neighborhood and he completed his school work at Northwestern Ohio Normal. He assisted his father in the impro\ement, clearing and cultivation of the homestead. He decided earlv in life to adopt the profession of teaching- and he labored to fit himself for this calling. After he had completed his preliminary work he began teaching in 1S73. He continued to teach in Adams county, Indiana, and in Van Wert county, Ohio, for a quarter of a century, and in this time taught thirty terms of school. He gave up his work as a teacher in 1 901 and took up that of fanning. In his long career as' a teacher he gained a most favorable reputation as an educator and he was one of the best and most popular of his district.

He was married in Saint Mary's township, December 16, 1877, to Miss Rosetta Gulick, who was born in Saint Mary's township March 3, 1S55. She is a daughter of Amos and Elizabeth (Acker) Gulick. Her father was born in Loudoun county, Virginia, February 29, 1824, and her mother was born in New York state, September 6, 1829. Her parents came to Adams county, where her father died January 20, 1888, and her mother September 1 J, 1896. They were the parents of seven children: Catherine E., who was- the wife of Joseph W. Smith, and died October 31, 1S74, in the twenty-eighth year of her age; Samuel, Rosetta, Eldora, who died in April, 1S66, in her ninth year; James W., who died aged seven ; Iva A., who was the wife of Willis Wagers, and died July 16, 1903, in her thirty-eighth year, and Amos W.

Mrs. William II. Teeple was reared on her father's farm and attended the schools of her home township. She was a teacher for four years preceding her marriage. Seven children, six of whom are still living, have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Teeple. The living children are: William G., John A., Mamie P., Benjamin W.. Anna A. and Don O. Jason D. died February 20, 1898, when he

Mr. Teeple is one of the successful farmers of his district of the county. He is the owner of a fine estate of one hundred and seventy-five acres and has cleared sixty acres of this tract himself. The land is all highly improved and is at a high stage of cultivation. His home and other buildings are well adapted to their uses. He rotates his crops with excellent judgment and they are uniformly profitable and of a high grade. He is a man who takes an active and aggressive interest in the affairs of his county and attributes his success to his motto: "Honesty, Industry, Economy." In politics he is a Republican and is trustee of Saint Mary's township. He was a candidate for county superintendent of schools in 1879.

One of the younger members of the medical profession in Adams county who is making a name for himself is Dr. John C. Grandstaff. This gentleman resides in Preble and has taken a leading place among the successful men of his county. He is a native of Adams county and was born in Monmouth, Root township, August 20, 1872. He is a son of Lemuel and Catherine (Dutcher) Grandstaff. His father came from Muskingum county, Ohio, to Allen county, Indiana. After a short residence in Allen county he removed to Adams county, where he married and still resides. Our subject's mother, with her family, came from Ross county, Ohio, to Adams county. They are the parents of six children, of whom Dr. Grandstaff is the third in order of birth.

Dr. Grandstaff was reared at his father's home and secured his earlier education in the Monmouth schools. Finishing this preliminary educational work, he entered the normal school at Marion, Indiana. He then taught school in Root township for five years. Following this period he decided to take up the study of medicine. He entered the office of Dr. J. L. Smith at Hoagland, Allen county. He made creditable progress and then entered the Eclectic Medical College at Cincinnati. He graduated from this institution with the class of '99 and returned to Hoagland. For some time he practiced medicine in Hoagland with Dr. Smith, his old preceptor, and then decided to remove to Preble, Adams county. He made this change in 1901 and has since practiced in this latter place.

Dr. Grandstaff was married in 1896 to Miss Lillie Fleming at Decatur and took his bride to Cincinnati. She died March 8, 1897, and left a son, Curtis H. Dr. Grandstaff was married for the second time to Miss Ethel S. Mann, who was born in Root township, and is the daughter of Joseph E. and Lucy (Kiess) Mann. Two children have been born of this second union : Francis M. and Floyd L.

Dr. Grandstaff is considered one of the substantial citizens of his county. He is a progressive man and is one who believes that the price of success so far as his profession is concerned lies in keeping thoroughly abreast of all changes and in touch with new developments and discoveries. To this end he is a careful and consistent reader and through association with the members of his school and through the meetings of his association is continually adding to his large store of medical knowledge and experience.

He is a conservative physician and is one who enjoys the entire confidence of his community. He has taken an active interest in the politics of his neighborhood and has worked for the interests of his party. At the election in the fall of 1906 he was a candidate for the office of coroner of Adams county and was elected by a handsome majority. He still serves in this capacity.

The name of the Flon. John W. Vizard is held in high esteem in Adams county, both as a practicing physician who has gained the confidence of his clients and as a legislator of marked ability, whose first consideration has been the interests of his constituency. Dr. Vizard was born in Monroe township, Allen county, November 10, 1869. He is a son of William and Elizabeth (Ratledge) Vizard. His father was a farmer of Allen county and lived until his death on his farm. Flis death occurred in 1901, at the age of sixty-six and he had the distinction of living continuously on his farm for fortyfive years. His mother was the daughter of Moses and Catherine Ratledge and was the second white child born in Monroe township. They had ten children, of whom Dr. Vizard was the fifth in order of birth.

Dr. Vizard was reared on his father's farm and received a preliminary education in the common schools of his neighborhood. Early in his school life he showed a peculiar aptitude for study and after finishing his early education he attended schools at Fort Wayne, the Middlepoint Normal School at Middlepoint, Ohio, and the Holbrook Na- tional Normal School at Lebanon, Ohio. It was while attending this latter institution that he decided to adopt medicine as his profession. Accordingly, after his classical course was completed, he matriculated in the medical department of the same school. He was a careful and earnest student and was graduated in medicine from the Lebanon school August 12, 1892. After he had graduated and was admitted to practice he established himself in an office at Dixon, Ohio. He continued to practice his profession at Dixon for six months and then removed to Pleasant Mills, in Adams county, Indiana. He opened his office in Pleasant Mills in April, 1S93. His career as a practicing physician has been a most successful one. He attracted a large patronage almost from the beginning of his practice, and this clientage has grown until it is one of the largest and most profitable in his community.

Politics have always held a live interest for Dr. Vizard. Soon after establishing himself in Pleasant Mills he began to take an active part in the politics of his county. He is a Democrat and has taken an important part in the political struggles of his section of the state under the banner of tin's party. His efforts and work were rewarded in November, 1904, when he was elected to the state legislature on the Democratic ticket. He showed himself an able representative and took a leading part in the deliberations of the state's law-making body in the session of 1905. So well and satisfactorily did he do his work that he was re-elected to the legislature for the session of 1907. The records of that memorable and stormy session show that Dr. Vizard bore himself gallantly and that his voice and vote were ever to be found on the side of the measures that were for the people's interests, as opposed to the interests of corporations or "special interests." His service in the legislature was with distinction at both sessions and gave added reason for the high respect in which he is held.

On May 14, 1896, Dr. Vizard was married to Miss Myrtle M. Acker, a daughter of Norman and Loretta Acker. She was bom in Adams county and was always a resident of Saint Mary's township. Her parents were among the oldest settlers in the township. Three children have been born to Dr. and Mrs. Vizard. These children are: Paris D., Ruth M. and Gordon A. Mrs. Vizard is an active member of the Baptist church.

As a physician Dr. Vizard ranks very high in his profession. He is a progressive and an aggressive man. He realizes that to be a successful physician means to keep abreast with the changes, developments and discoveries in his profession. This he does by careful reading and by keeping in close touch with the leaders of medical thought. His equipment is most admirable and he deserves the distinction he enjoys of being one of the best and most accomplished physicians of northeastern Indiana. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge, No. 65, at Decatur.

Charles W. Yager

Charlese W. Yager is one of the prosperous and progressive merchants of Pleasant Mills, Adams county. He lias been engaged in business in that place for a number 01 years and has established himself and business on a firm basis. He is a native son of Adams county and was bcm in Preble township, August 5, 1866. He is a son of Jacob and Mary J. Yager, who were among the early settlers of Preble township. In 1872, when Charles was a lad of six. years, his parents removed from Preble township and settled in Saint Mary's township. In 1896 His father removed to Decatur, where he made his home until his death in August, 1904, at the age of thirty-eight years. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Yager were the parents of five children, four of whom are living. These are: Charles W., the subject of this sketch; Lydia A., the wife of Samuel Shamp; Phoebe V., the wife of Samuel Hite. A daughter, Ida, died when three years of age.

The childhood and youth of Charles Yager were spent on his father's farm in Saint Mary's township. He attended the schools of his neighborhood and the schools of Pleasant Mills, where he received a good English education. He learned the business of farming and when he reached manhood he was considered one of the most expert farmers of his section of the county.

He was a faithful worker and a dutiful son and did much to improve his father's estate and to bring it to a high stage of cultivation and productiveness. He continued in the occupation of farming until 1895, when he went to Pleasant Mills and engaged in the mercantile business.

In the winter of iSSS^ Mr. Yager was married to Miss Kannie Steele. The wedy~) ding occurred December 12, 1888. Mrs. ^ ager was a daughter of Samuel and Polly Steele and was born in Kirkland township, Adams county, and died in Pleasant Mills

Five years after the death of his first wife Mr. Yager married again. This time he chose as his bride Miss Grace N. Ayres, a daughter of Nathan and Sarah Ayres. The wedding was solemnized Christmas day, 1899. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Yager. These are: Mildred, born October 7, 1900, and Mary G., born October 14, 1902.

Mr. Yager is one of the successful business men of Pleasant Mills. His store is a model of its kind and controls a large share of the trade of his immediate neighborhood. He is a wide-awake, progressive man and is esteemed by his associates. He takes a lively interest in the affairs of his town and county and is foremost in movements designed to increase the prosperity and commercial significance of his town. He has served his fellow residents of Saint Mary's township in public office and was a trustee of the township at one time and discharged the duties of this important office faithfully and well. He is an active member of the Knights of Pythias and is a man who lives in every way a consistent, exemplary life.

Alpheus N. Acker

The father of Alpheus N. Acker was Norman Acker, a native of New York state, and his mother was Loretta Carter, a native of Virginia. They were among the early settlers of Saint Mary's township and established themselves on a farm near Pleasant Mills. His father lived on the homestead until his death in June, 1900, at the age of sixty-four. The pioneer couple had six children: Annis, the wife of Charles F. W. Bartling; Alpheus N., Orpha, the wife of H. A. Worden; Austin F., Eva, who was the wife of Dr. J. W. Vizard, and who died at Pleasant Mills, November, 1S94, and Myrtle, the wife of Dr. J. M. Vizard.

Alpheus N. Acker was born on his father's farm in Saint Mary's township, October 4, 1S59, an(l spent his boyhood on the parental estate and received his earlier education in the schools of the township. After completing his education he engaged in school teaching and taught from 1876 to 1880. In this latter year he decided to give up his work as an educator of the youth of the township and to embark in some mercantile pursuit. He established himself in the mercantile and general store business at Pleasant Mills, and the business was known under the firm name of N. Acker & Son. This business venture was a success from its inception and the trade the store controlled grew to large proportions. A line of general wares was carried and the patronage of the farmers of the neighborhood was given to the enterprise. Air. Acker continued in this business until 1895, when he disposed of his interest in the store.

The year before he disposed of his interest in the mercantile business at Pleasant Mills he built the elevator at that place. In 1895 he assumed the management of the business of the elevator and also the management of the Farmers' Grain Company, in which latter concern he owns # half interest. Under his management both enterprises have become substantial investments and are on a certain and paying basis.

Mr. Acker was married in June, 1885, to Miss Edna A. Faust. His wife is a daughter of James and Elizabeth (Ganl) Faust. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Acker. Of these two are dead : Olin R., who died when eighteen months of age, and an infant son, who died unnamed. The living children are: Nackie E., James N., Charles C. and Neva F.

In matters that have to do with the commercial, political and social interests of Adams county Mr. Acker takes a lively and intelligent interest. He is in every sense a progressive man and is active in those movements that are destined to increase the prosperity and fair repute of his community. He is interested in politics and has served his fellow residents of Saint Mary's township in the capacity of assessor for seven years. There is no better example of what a citizen should be than that furnished by him. He is fearless in expressing opinions that he knows are honest, and he is in every sense a good neighbor.

Edwin W. France

Edwin W. France is the son of a distinguished father. The latter, William Henry France, was one of the oldest, best known and most highly respected residents of Saint Mary's township, Adams county. His mother was Phoebe A. (Mathewson) France. This couple migrated to Indiana and settled in Adams county early in 1S50. Throughout his life William Henry France was one of the leading men of the county. He was a progressive man and in many respects was far in advance of his contemporaries. He cultivated a farm and served his fellow residents of Adams county in public capacities faithfully and well. For eight years he was the superintendent of the

Adams county infirmary and he administered the affairs of this institution to the entire satisfaction of the men who selected him fur the place. He was also twice elected county auditor, discharging the important and exacting duties of this high office through the greater part of two terms with a keen honesty and with care and conservatism. He died before the expiration of his second term as auditor, his death occurring July 25, 1895, in the fifty-fifth year of his age, and was generally mourned as an exemplary citizen and a faithful and painstaking public servant. His wife survived him until 1903, in June of which year she died, and was fifty-eight years of age. This worthy and respected couple had six children, of whom Edwin W. France was the eldest. He was born on his father's place in Saint Mary's township, May 25, 1861, and spent his boyhood on his father's farm and assisted in the cultivation of his father's estate, securing his education in the schools of his neighborhood. After he grew to manhood he continued to cultivate the soil and was a successful farmer for several years.

After a few years spent in farming he decided to engage in the mercantile business, and in line with this determination he formed a partnership with C. YV. Yager. A store was opened at Pleasant Mills by these gentlemen and it soon became a fixture and a necessity in the commercial life of the district. After four years in this business, during which time the store was placed on a profitable basis, Mr. France decided to return to farming, and. accordingly, sold his 'P interest in the Pleasant Mills store and returned to his farm, which he cultivated until 1904, and then re-entered the mercantile business field. He engaged this time in the

May 4, 18S2, Mr. France was united in marriage to Miss Maggie Yager, a daughter of Jacob and Mary Yager, who were early settlers in Preble township, and who removed to Saint Mary's township in 1872. Mrs. France's birth occurred in Preble township, January 16, 1863.

Mr. France is a man who is greatly interested in the affairs of his county and township, is essentially public spirited and is a man who exercises good judgment and acts upon principle. Pie has been active politically and has served as county truant officer. In addition to this public service he served as constable for a term of two years. In both of these offices he acquitted himself with rare credit and gained the confidence and respect of his fellows. He owns forty acres of good land and his farm, although it is small, is one of the best in the township, it being well improved, equipped with good buildings, profitable and attractive. With his wife he is a consistent member of the Baptist church and gives his liberal support and hearty co-operation to this church and denomination. He is highly respected and is one of the most esteemed men of the community in which he resides.

Josiah L. Chronister

Josiah L. Chronister is numbered among the highly successful farmers of Adams county. He was born in Saint Mary's township, Adams county, April 25, 1856. He is a son of Conrad and Catherine (Lenharl) Chronister. His father was a native of

Pennsylvania and his mother of Ohio. After the marriage of his parents in the latter state they removed to Indiana in 1S40 and, deciding- to locate in the northeastern part of the state, they settled on a farm in Adams county, Saint Mary's township, that is still in the family. The elder Chronisters lived on their homestead, which they had brought to a high state of cultivation, until their deaths. Conrad Chronister died in his seventy-seventh year, October 8, 1906.

Their son, Josiah, was the third in order of birth of a family of eleven children. He was reared on his father's farm and took part in clearing it and later in its cultivation, attending the schools of the neighborhood and obtaining as good an education as the time and opporunities afforded. He was an industrious boy and a dutiful son and assumed his full share of the responsibilities incident to the management and improvement of the home farm. In time he became an expert farmer and was acknowledged one of the best in his line in the entire county.

January 4, 1883, he was married to Miss Ida Merrill. Six children have been born of this union : Ada, the wife of William Gyer ; Clarence, Bessie and Milton are living. Two died in infancy. Mrs. Ida Chronister died in 1897 arK' M-r- Chronister was married again in 1901. His bride this time was Miss Ida Ayres, who was born in Adams county, December 9, i860. One child, Rufus, has been born of this marriage.

Mr. Chronister is one of the substantial men of his community. He is not only a progressive and up-to-date farmer, who has made his business a success, but he is -"also a man who is alive to his responsibilities so far as his fellow men are concerned. He owns forty acres of his father's original farm and has it well improved and highly productive. Hi« residence and farm buildings are comfortable, attractive and models of their kind, and his place is well drained and fenced. He has served his fellow residents of Saint Mary's township in public offices, being a supervisor for a number of years, and was a member of the advisory board for tight years. He is a good neighbor and an exemplary citizen. With his wife, he is a member of the United Brethren church and he gives this denomination his earnest and liberal support. His first wife was also a member of this church.

Joseph W. Smith

Joseph W. Smith was born in Washington township, Adams county, Indiana, December 7, 1S43. He is the son of Zacharias and Susanna (McClellan) Smith. His father was born in Virginia and his mother in Pennsylvania. His parents were married in Fayette county, Ohio, where they settled at an early date, and then came to Indiana in 1S33, settling on a farm in Washington township, Adams county. They lived on this farm in Washington township for about twelve years and then moved to a farm in Saint Mary's township. Shortly after coming to Saint Mary's township Zacharias Smith met an accidental death in his thirty-seventh year by drowning. His wife continued to reside on the homestead until 1861, when she made her home with her children. She died in Saint Mary s township at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Jane Acker, in her seventy-eighth year.

W. Smith was the youngest. He lived on the homestead after his father's death and assisted in its cultivation until his eighteenth year. In the meantime he had secured as good an education as the district schools afforded. When he was eighteen years, of age he decided to make a place for himself and accordingly he left his home. He worked at various forms of employment until August, 1862. At this time the Civil war was drawing on all parts of the north for volunteers and the various calls for soldiers had been made by President Lincoln. Young Smith was attacked by the war fever and he decided to get into the fray. Accordingly he enlisted in Company I, Eightyninth Indiana Volunteers, and was soon at the front with his regiment as a part of the Army of the Cumberland. Almost from the start of his campaigning he was under fire. At the engagement fought at Mumfordsville, Kentucky, he was taken prisoner by the Confederate forces. He was held but a short time and then paroled. Soon after receiving his parole he was exchanged and he rejoined his regiment and served to the close of the war. He served his country with gallantry and distinction and after the close of the war received an honorable discharge. When his regiment was disbanded he returned to Adams county and resumed his work of farming.

The marriage of Mr. Smith and Miss Catherine Gulick was celebrated in Saint Mary's township in February, 1866. His wife was a daughter of Amos and Elizabeth (Acker) Gulick,- who were among the earliest settlers of Adams county. Mr. and Mrs. mith became the parents of five children, lour of whom lived to maturity. One child died in infancy. Those living are: Annie, the wife of Albert Chronister; Maryette, the wife of 'J. A. Hendricks; Samuel W. and Amos Z. Mrs. Smith died in Saint Mary's township in her twenty-ninth year, in September, 1873, anc' ner husband took a second wife. His second marriage was contracted with Mrs. Adeline (Acker) Erittson, the widow of David Brittson, who died in Saint Mary's in 1872. The Smith-Brittson wedding was celebrated April 15, 1S76. By her first marriage Mrs. Smith was the mother of two children - Albert and William Floyd. She was born in Saint Mary's township, February 25, 184S, and is a daughter of Samuel and Catherine (Kiser) Acker, who were among the pioneers of Adams county. They were the parents of seven children, of whom Mrs. Smith is the youngest. She was reared and educated in Saint Mary's township and has lived there all of her life. Mr. and Mrs. Smith had by their marriage six children: Marion, Nora D., Mintie, who died when fourteen years of age; Faye, Rose and Carl.

Mr. Smith is the owner of one hundred and eighty-four acres of productive farm land. His estate is all under cultivation and is highly improved. His buildings are in excellent condition and are large and comfortable. As a whole, his farm ranks among the best in the county, and is one of the most attractive. He is interested in public affairs and takes an active part in those affecting his township and county. He has served as township trustee for seven years. His wife is an active and honored member of the Presbyterian church and takes much interest in the charities and work of this denomination.

John D. Nidlinger

John D. Nidlinger, who ronducts a fine farm and occupies an enviable position as a progressive and successful citizen in Union township, Adams county, Indiana, was born in Root township, this county, on March 27, 1 86 1, and is the son of Nathan and Jane (Walters) Nidlinger, natives of Pennsylvania. They were not married, however, until' they came to Adams county, their union occurring on the 23d of December, 1847. They immediately settled in Root township, where they resided until their deaths. They were the parents of seven children : George, Sarah, the wife of Charles Baker; Rachael, the wife of Lafayette Baker; Mary, who died at the age of three years ; Elizabeth, the wife of J. D. Stultz; John D. and Elijah H. The father of these children died January 3, 1894, at the age of seventy-six years, and his wife died January 25, 1890, at the age of sixtysix.

The subject of this sketch was reared in Root township and educated in the common schools. During his early years he was inured to the labors incident to farm life, to which he has given his attention during the subsequent years. In about 1881 Mr. Nidlinger settled in Union township on his present place, which he has since successfully conducted. In connection with farming he has also given considerable attention to stock buying and breeding, and has been successful in all lines. His farm, comprising, as it does, one hundred and forty-five acres, is well improved in every respect and is considered one of the most valuable pieces of agricultural property in the township. He

On December 15, 18S1, Mr. Nidlinger was married to Miss Louisa J. Kline, daughter of William and Nancy E. (Mumma) Kline, who was born in Root township, this county, on May 23, 1861. To this union were born five children, namely: Elva M.. the wife of Jacob D. Barkly; Earl \V.. Irene, Ruth, and Hugh. Mr. Nidlinger has held the office of township trustee for over four years and was at one time president of the Great Northern Indiana Fair for two years. He is now president of the State Fair Association, and has always taken an active interest in the agricultural affairs of the state.

Mr. Nidlinger is identified with the Democratic party and religiously is affiliated with the United Brethren church, in the activities of which he takes a prominent part.

John H. Mumma

John H. Mumma, in whom the interest of this sketch centers, is a progressive and successful farmer of Union township, Adams county. He was bom near Canal Dover, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, November 26, 1837. He is a son of Christian and Rebecca (Snyder) Mumma. His father was born in Ohio and his mother was a native of Maryland. His parents were married in Ohio and lived there some years following the occupation of farmers. In 1S51 they disposed of their property in Tuscarawas county and journeyed to Indiana. They settled in Root township, Adams county.

where they purchased a tract of land. The family continued to reside in this section of Adams county until 1S61, when Christian Mumma disposed of his land and purchased another tract in Union township. He continued to live on this latter place until his death in February, 1865. His widow survives him and has attained a ripe old age. He died at the age of fifty-two. This couple became the parents of nine children, four sons and five daughters. Of this family of children John H. Mumma is the eldest.

When his parents moved to Indiana from Ohio John Mumma was about fourteen years of age. He spent his boyhood on his father's farms in Indiana and Ohio and secured a good education in the common schools of his neighborhood and for some years taught school. As he grew he assisted his father in the management and cultivation of the home farms and became in time a skilled agriculturist. He lived on his father's estate until he reached manhood and married. He left his father's home in February, 1859, and settled on a place in Union township and began life independently. He lived on his Union township farm until December, 1864, when he responded to a call for volunteers and enlisted in Company I, Twefth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He served with this command for about four months and then was mustered out of the federal service. Following this event he returned to his farm and took up the work /pf its cultivation where the war had interrupted it. He has since lived on his farm. It is a fertile tract of ninety acres, well located and under a high state of productiveness. It was comparatively rough and unimproved when he settled on it, but during the years that have followed his settlement he has made many changes and many improvements. He has drained the farm and fenced it and erected a comfortable residence and outbuildings of a commodious and substantial nature. His place is operated along modern lines and is one of the really attractive and profitable farms of its neighborhood.

The marriage of Mr. Mumma and Miss Catherine Lower was solemnized in February, 1859. She was a daughter of William and Catherine Lower, who settled in Union township, Adams county, in 1852. Mrs. John Mumma died June 12, 1S95. Mr. and Mrs. Mumma became the parents of the following children : Wesley W., Marietta, the deceased wife of William Harden ; John L. (deceased), Mary F. (deceased), Charles S. and Milton L. Mrs. Mumma was an exemplary wife and mother and an earnest member of the United Brethren church, to which denomination her husband and surviving children give their hearty and generous support.

Mr. Mumma is a man who takes an active and intelligent part in the affairs of his county and township. He is a man who believes in keeping in touch with the trend of events and is well informed on the subjects of the day. He is one who co-operates heartily in all plans for the improvement and betterment of his community, and his support in such matters can be confidently counted upon. He is numbered among the substantial citizens of Union township and his counsel and advice are valued and frequently sought. He is a Republican in politics and in 1890 was the census enumerator for Union township.

William Kline

William Kline, a successful farmer of Union township, Adams county, who is leading a retired life after a busy one spent in cultivating his fine estate, was born in Root township, Adams county, March 25, 1840. He is a son of Jacob and Barbara (Robinson) Kline, who were born in Pennsylvania. After the marriage of his parents they emigrated to Ohio and settled on a farm in Tuscarawas county, where they lived until about the year 1837, when they moved further west into Indiana. They settled on a tract of land they purchased in Root township. They were among the earlier settlers to invade the northeastern Indiana wilderness. When they arrived the country was still in a wild state and there were few settlers. The land was heavily timbered and much work had to be done before it could be made productive. However, each was possessed with the indomitable spirit of the pioneer and the future outlook held no terrors. They matched themselves against the problem that confronted them and in a few years had their land cleared, improved and under cultivation. They both lived on their Root township farm until their deaths. Mrs. Kline died at the age of sixty-seven and her husband survived until he reached the advanced age of eighty-one. They were the parents of seven children, five sons and two daughters. The latter died in infancy. The sons surviving are: William, George B. and Jonas. Twosons, Robert and John R., are deceased. Of this family William Kline was the fourth in order of birth.

contrast with the life of the average bov who was raised on a farm at that time. He spent his youth on his father's farm and when he became old enough assisted in the cultivation of the farm. He received a fair education in the schools of his neighborhood and applied himself diligently to his studies. He continued to live on his father's farm after his marriage and then, after the lapse of a year, removed to his present pb.ee in Union township. In September, 1864. he enlisted in Company I, Fifty-first Indiana Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He was present in the engagements fought by his command at Franklin Columbia, Tennessee, Duck River and Nashville. After his discharge he returned to his home in Union township and resumed the peaceful pursuit of agriculture.

The marriage of Mr. Kline and Miss Nancy E. Mumma occurred August 5, 1S60. His wife is a daughter of John and Catherine (Snyder) Mumma and was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, June 23, 1840. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania and her mother was born in Maryland. They came to Adams county from Ohio in 1853 and settled in Root township. They purchased a farm and cultivated it until their deaths, which occurred in Root township. Mr. Mumma died at the age of sixtyeight and his wife lived to be eighty-one years of age. They were the parents of four children: Solomon, Eliza J., Nancy E. and Emily C. Mr. and Mrs. Kline are the parents of five children: Louisa J., the wife of J. D. Nidelinger; Emma F.. the wife of Elijah Nidelinger; Franklin E. married Ora Conkleton; Elmer A., married Lulu M. Nelson, and Bertha A., the wife of I- C. Miller.

Mr. Kline has led a busy and useful life. il,- is the o'.vner of a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres of fertile land that is highly improved and is under profitable cultivation. He takes an active interest in all matters affecting his county and township and is a staunch adherent of the Republican party. He is a member of William Henry Link post of the Grand Army of the Republic and is prominent in affairs affecting this organization in his county. He, with his wife and the members of his family are members of the United Brethren church and he is a generous and consistent contributor to the aims and charities of this religious body. He is highly esteemed and is ranked as one of the most substantial citizens of his district.

John H. Blakey

John H. Blakey, who has spent his entire life in Union township, Adams county, Indiana, where he is now successfully following agricultural pursuits, was born in this township on February 17, 1855. His parents were Christian F. and Louisa (Fhalswg) Blakey, natives of Prussia. Christian Blakey came to Adams county, Indiana, in 1836 and was married here in 1S50. 1 his couple resided here during the remainder of their lives, the father dying at the age r/yseverity-eight years and the mother at the early age of twenty-three. They were the parents of three children: Mary L., the wife of H. F, Reinking; Sophia, the wife of William Holle ; John H., the subject. After the death of his first wife Mr. Blakey marted Miss Mary Rupp and to this union were born the following children : Christian, who died in childhood; Eliza, who died at the age of twenty- four years ; Charles, Fred (deceased), Martin, Theodore, Edward C, Matilda, the wife of Adam Bentz, and Otto.

John H. Blakey was reared on his father's farm and during his youth obtained a fair education in the common schools. He early gave attention to the labors of the farm, assisting his father in clearing and cultivating the land, and has always been considered among Union township's practical men. He owns two hundred and twenty acres of as good land as can be found in the township and gives his every effort to maintain it at a high standard.

On September 29, 1878, in Lnion township, Mr. Blakey married Miss Amelia Thieme, who was born in Fort Wayne on May 23, 1857, the daughter of Godfrey and Amelia (Roscher) Thieme, who emigrated to this country from Saxony, Germany, locating in Union township, where they died at the respective ages of seventy and sixtyseven years. To the subject and his wife have been born eleven children : Julia A., the wife of Frank Kirbach ; Arthur C, Adelia, who died at the age of eight years ; Amelia, John, Christian, Clara, Louise, Lydia, Rosa, who died at the age of two years, and Henry. Mr. Blakey takes a deep interest in local public affairs and has always voted with the Democratic party. He and his wife are members of the German Lutheran church and are highly respected in the community.

John A. Barkley

of his fellow residents of the township, in whose hands to place their political interests. He was born in Union township. August 2, 1859. He is a son of Elias and Mary (Clem) Barkley. His parents were born in Ohio and came to Adams county among the older settlers. They secured a tract of land in Union township and followed the occupation of farmers. Elias Barkley died July 7, 1904. He was the father of seven children, of which number John Barkley was the second in order of birth.

The subject of this sketch was reared on his father's farm in Union township and attended the common schools of his immediate neighborhood and received as good an English education as was possible in the community in which he lived during the period of his youth, and as he grew to manhood .assisted his father in the management and cultivation of his farm. Under the wise instruction of his father he developed into a manly youth and in time became an expert farmer. With the exception of five years he has spent his entire life in Adams county and on a farm in Union township.

He was married March 18, 1885, to Miss Laura L. Wass. His wife was bom in Carroll county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Wesley I. B. Wass and Elizabeth (Pot- -torf) Wass. Her paternal grandfather, Samuel Wass, was a native of England and was among the older settlers in northeastern Indiana. The entire married life of Mr. and Mrs. Barkley has been spent on their home farm in Union township and they have become the parents of five children. These children are all living and are : May A., wife of Orville Wherry, and resides in Allen county, Indiana ; L. Madge, Irene Merle, Lester W. and Nellie G.

Mr. Barkley is the owner of a fine fat m of sixty acres in Union township, on which he makes his home. His land is among the most fertile in the township and he ha«, brought it to a high state of productivene>> and profit. He is a believer in modern methods and modern machinery in farm operation and he applies these beliefs in h: work. He rotates his crops with judgment and the result is that his crops arc uniform!' large and satisfactory. From time to time he has added improvements to his estate am! it is thoroughly drained, strongly fenced and equipped with a fine home residence and substantial farm buildings. He takes an active part in all township and county affairs and in 1904 was elected to serve his fellow residents of Union township in the important capacity of township trustee. This office he is still holding. He is in :i]i respects an exemplary citizen and a succe-i ful man. With his wife and the members of his family he worships with the United Brethren denomination and gives the church of this denomination in his neighborhood his earnest, generous and hearty support.

Wesley I. B. Wass

Wesley W. I. Wass was born in Carrol! county, Ohio, March iS, 1837. His parents were Samuel and Phoebe (Ward) Wass, both natives of England, where they were married. They came to America in an early day and settled on a farm in Carroll county. After a number of years' residence in Ohio they decided to remove Ui Indiana, and accordingly purchased land 1" Adams county and settled upon it. T heir

Allen county, at the age of eighty-three vcars and his wife survived him several years, finally passing away in Decatur at the advanced age of ninety-three years. They lx.-caine the parents of nine children, of whom Wesley Wass was the youngest.

The youth of Mr. Wass was spent on his father's farm in Carroll county. He attended the sessions of the schools of his immediate neighborhood and secured as good an education as was possible under the circumstances. He assisted his father in the cultivation of the home farm and lived on it until he grew up and was married. Two years after his marriage, in May, 1S64, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Fifty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served with this command in Virginia and Maryland until his period of enlistment expired in September of the same year. He received an honorable discharge and returned to his home in Carroll county. In the spring of the following year he decided to remove to Indiana and did so, settling on the farm in Union township, where he still resides.

The marriage of Mr. Wass and Miss Elizabeth Pottorf occurred in Carroll county, Ohio, May 2, 1862. His wife was !>orn in Carroll county and was a daughter of Jacob S. and Hannah (Gilmore) Pot- <orf. Mr. and Mrs. Wass became the parents of six children : Luella, the wife of Judge R. K. Erwin; Laura, the wife of '- hn A. Earklev; Dwisrht, a farmer in I nton township, Mary, the wife of Curtis veynolds; Alice is at home, and one son ,!led in infancy. Mrs. Wass died in Union township in her thirty-fifth year. Mr. Wass took for his second wife Caroline Wagner, a native of Germany. They became the parents of two children: Daisy, the wife of Frank Crates, and Maud, the wife of Harley Baker.

Mr. Wass is a fine type of a successful farmer. His life has been an active one and he has made the most of all of the opportunities that presented themselves to him. Fie is the owner of one hundred and seventy-five acres of excellent land, all of which is improved and under cultivation. His estate is large and one of the most profitable in the township. His buildings are large and comfortable and his crops each year are disposed of at a handsome profit. He takes an interest in the affairs of the township and county in which he lives, and in earlier years wras an active worker for all measures that were destined to increase the material prosperity of his neighborhood.

Herman F. Reinking

Herman F. Reinking, who owns a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Union township, Adams county, Indiana, was born in Preble township, this county, on the 9th of August, 1S49. His parents were Conrad and Mary Christianer Reinking, natives of Germany. They emigrated to this country and were married here, after which they located in Preble township, where they lived until their deaths, the father dying at the age of seventy-eight years and the mother at the age of seventyone. They were the parents of nine children : Flerman, Henry, Ernest, William

The subject of this sketch received his education in the common schools and remained on his father's farm in Preble township until eighteen years of age, when he started out in life by himself. For some years he worked at different occupations and learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for about four years. He then engaged in farming in Union township and has since consecutively followed this occupation, with the exception of one year spent at the carpenter's trade in Indianapolis. As before stated, he owns one hundred and twenty acres of land, all under the plow and highly improved, with good buildings, substantial fences and other accessories of an up-to-date farm. He is methodical in his work and gives proper attention to the rotation of crops and other things which contribute to successful agriculture.

On April 20, 1873, Mr. Reinking was married to Miss Mary L. Elakey, who was born in Union township, Adams county, Indiana, on November 14, 1851, the daughter of Christian F. and Louisa (Fhalsing) Reinking. natives of Prussia. These parents emigrated here in an early day and were married in 1850. They both died here, the father at the age of seventy-eight and the mother at the age of twenty-three. The father afterward married Miss Maria Rupp, who died in this township at the age of sixty-five years. To the first union were born three children : Mary L., Sophia and John II. To the subject and his wife have been born nine children: Adeline, the wife of William Bosecker; Ida, Gerhard, Charlotte, Maria, Herman and three who died in infancy. Mr. Reinking takes a healthy interest in township affairs and religion and his wife are members of the Eniauin German Lutheran chinch. Mr. Reiiikintr : a Democrat.

Rev. Gottlieb Bauer

Among the clergymen of northeastern Indiana who are powers for good in the:: respective communities is the Rev. Gottlieh Bauer. He is a young man and one who i an aggressive and intelligent worker in !>|. sacred calling. His place among his people is an important one and he enjoys their entire confidence and their love and esteem He is the son of a clergyman and was born in Allen county, Indiana, November 17. 18G9. His father is the Rev. Heinrich Bauer and his mother was Sophia Koenemann before her marriage. The Rev. Heinrich Bauer was born in Bavaria, Germany, and spent his boyhood there. After coming to America he settled in Indiana and married his wife, who is a native of PrebU township, Adams county. His parents have resided in Decatur since 1905. The) are the parents of eight children, of which number our subject is the fifth in order i>l birth.

The youth of Gottlieb Bauer was spent in Allen county. He attended the schools and received a good preliminary education. 1 "i youth he was destined for the ministry, and after completing his common school education he went to Springfield, Illinois, and entered the Concordia College Theologk 11 Seminary at that city. Before he went i college, however, he removed with his p.'""" ents to Grand Haven, Michigan, when' In' father held a pastorate for ten years, l-'^-

Christian Schamerloh

}-.c lived in southern Indiana and still later in Goodland, Indiana. While he was attending the seminar)' and college at Springfield, Illinois, he became an earnest and industrious student. He stood high in his classes and attained much proficiency in theological knowledge. He completed the full course prescribed by Concordia College and was graduated from that institution with the class of '96.

Following his graduation from the theological seminary he began the active work of the ministry. His first charge was at Goodland, Indiana, and he continued to preach at that place until 1905, when he was called to take charge of the Emanuel Lutheran church in Union township. This church is among the most flourishing religious institutions of Adams county. The present church building was erected in 1892 at a cost of approximately five thousand dollars. Its congregation numbers in excess of three hundred and twenty-five people. In connection with the church a parochial school is conducted, and like the church, the school is. in a most satisfactory condition and has an attendance of about seventy pupils. During the pastorate of the Rev. Mr. Bauer Emanuel Lutheran church has grown and expanded and is today one of the most important religious bodies of the county, both in numbers and in financial standing.

The marriage of the Rev. Mr. Bauer to Miss Elizabeth Walter was celebrated at Goodland, Indiana, September 24, 189S. Mrs. Bauer was born in Goodland, Indiana, September 18, 1879. She is a daughter of August and Ricke Walter. Three children have come to bless the union of the Rev. and Mrs. Bauer. These children are : Esther, Hermann and Arnold.

When he was a young man twenty years of age Christian Schamerloh left his home in the Fatherland and emigrated to the republic on the western shore of the Atlantic. He was born in Germany, February 15, 183 1, and landed in the United States in 1 85 1. He came directly west after he disembarked and located in Fort Wayne. He remained in that city until the spring of 1852, when he went to Indianapolis, believing that his chances were greater for success in the larger place. He followed various pursuits in Indianapolis and other central Indiana cities for the next six years, and in 1858 returned to northeastern Indiana. During the years he worked in centra! Indiana he saved money and prospered. He was of a frugal and thrifty disposition and made all of his savings count toward a competence for after life. With the money he had saved he purchased a tract of seventy-five acres in Adams county and settled down to the life of a tiller of the soil. The land he purchased was wild and unimproved. However, its- wild state did not discourage him. He was accustomed to hard toil and the prospect of clearing his farm was not one that he feared to face. He saw farther than the limits of the timbered and marshy acres he purchased - he looked ahead and saw a farm productive and profitable and a home that was comfortable and attractive. With this vista spread before him he went eagerly to work to clear his tract and after the lapse of a few years he found himself in possession of a good farm that had been brought to a high state of fertility and cultivation. Although his early life on his Indiana farm was a hard one and comprised much arduous toil, he has

But the mere possession of land does not constitute a home. This idea presented itself to Mr. Schamerloh, and accordingly he decided to marry. He chose for his bride Catherine Kirkenberg and after their marriage installed her as the mistress of his home. During their life together nine children came to bless their union. Of this number five lived to reach maturity. These were William, Henry, Sophia, who was the wife of Frederick Bohnke, and who died in Decatur in May, 1895; Caroline, who became the wife of Theodore Thieme, and Anna. Mrs. Christian Schamerloh died in Union township in her thirty-second year. Some years after the death of his first wife Mr. Schamerloh married again. His bride this time was Miss Amelia Berger, who was born in Fort Wayne. Two children were born of this second union, of whom one, Beata, is surviving. She is the wife of Arthur Blakey. Mrs. Amelia Schamerloh died at her home in Union township, January 25, 1906.

Mr. Schamerloh is counted among the most highly respected men of his township. He has taken an interest, although not an active part, in the affairs of his township and county and has contributed to all the movements that were destined to increase the prosperity of his community. His life has been an active and useful one and in the evening of his days he is now enjoying the plentiful fruits of his earlier labors and efforts. He takes an interest in the religious matters of his neighborhood, and is an honored and consistent member of the Emanuel Lutheran church.

Edgar S. Moses

None among the present men owning and operating farms in Union township, Adams county, is better known, more highly respected or has contributed more to the material welfare of his community than has Edgar S. Moses, the subject of this sketch. He was born in Root township, Adams county, April 22, 1856. His parents were Samuel and Eliza (Hunter) Moses. Samuel Moses was born in Shade township, Somerset county, Pennsylvania, February 21, 1825. When he was seven years of age his parents left Pennsylvania and journeyed to Ohio. They settled on a farm in Carroll county, where their son, Samuel, was reared. He was educated in the common schools of his neighborhood and learned the life of a tiller of the soil. He grew to manhood on his father's farm and was married November 20, 1845, to M'ss Eliza Hunter. His wife was bom in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, in 1824, and when still a young girl removed with her parents to Carroll county, Ohio. She was the daughter of James and Jane (Cochran) Hunter. James Hunter was born in Ireland and the ancestors of Jane Cochran came originally from Switzerland.

Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Moses decided to emigrate to Indiana. He settled in Adams county in 1853 with his wife and four children on a farm a short distance south of the present Alpha Methodist Episcopal church in Root township. He lived on this farm for the next four years, when Mr. Moses sold it and purchased forty acres in section 23, Root township. This farm was partially improved when he purchased it and from time to time lie added to its improvements until it became a valuable and profitable piece of farm property. He continued to live on his Root township farm until his death, which occurred May 5, 1891, when he was sixty-six years of age. His wife survived him four years and died December 20, 1895, at tne age of sixty-six years. Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Moses were the parents of a family of seven children, of whom two died in infancy. Those that reached maturity were named : Rebecca J., the wife of Abraham Farrey; John S., James C, Clara C, the wife of Michael B. Knouse, and Edgar S.

Of his father's family of seven children Edgar S. Moses was the youngest. He was reared on his father's farm in Root township and obtained his preliminary education in the common schools of his immediate neighborhood. After he had completed the courses offered in the common schools he supplemented the education thus gained by two years' study at Wabash College at Crawfordsville, Indiana. His progress in Wabash College was satisfactory and he made the most of his opportunities. After leaving college he returned to Adams county and taught school during the winter months for several terms. However, his chief concern was farming and he assisted his father in the management and cultivation of the home estate. Under the tutelage of his father he became a skillful fanner and learned the lessons he applied so admirably to his profit in after life.

Mr. Moses was married April 8, 18S8, in Saint Mary's township, Adams county, to Miss Margaret A. Dailey. His wife was born in Saint Mary's township, July 11, 1858. She was reared in this township and received her preliminary education in the township schools. After she completed this stage of her education she studied in the normal college at Valparaiso, Indiana, and graduated from this educational institution. Following her graduation she taught school in Adams county for six years before her marriage to Mr. Moses. She is a patron of education and is prominent in educational circles of her neighborhood.

Mrs. Edgar Moses is a daughter of James T. and Mary (Johnson) Dailey. Her father was born in Maryland and came with his parents to Ohio when a youth. He was reared in Athens county, Ohio, and grew to manhood in that county. Mary (Johnson) Dailey was born in Hardin county, Ohio, September 22, 1822. She was a daughter of James and Mary (Frazier) Johnson. James Johnson was born in Cork, Ireland, and died in Athens county, Ohio. His wife was a native of Maryland and also died in Athens county, Ohio, at the advanced age of ninety-two years. When Mary Johnson was fifteen years of age she came to Van Wert county with her parents and lived with them on their farm until her marriage to James T. Dailey. Soon after this event the Daileys removed to Indiana and settled in Saint Mary's township, Adams county, on a tract of eighty acres of land which James Dailey entered from the government. He prospered and became one of the largest landholders in the township. At the time of his death, which occurred in 1864, he was the owner of six hundred acres of fine land. His widow survived him a number of years and followed him to the grave December 6, 1885. Both Mr. and Mrs. James Dailey died on the farm he entered from the government. The following named children were bom of the union of Mr. and Mrs.

James Dailey: Nimrod, Davis, Mary, the wife of Benjamin Jones ; Joseph J., Amy, the wife of John C. Cov/en; Emily C, the wife of J. C. Moses; Samantha V., who was the wife of Charles Gage and who died in Saint Mary's township; Margaret A., the wife of the subject of this sketch ; James T. and E. W.

Following the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Moses they lived for two years on a farm in St. Mary's township and two years later he purchased his present farm in Union township. This estate he has greatly improved since it came into his possession and it is today one of the finest and most productive farms in the township. He employs modern methods and machinery in its operation and his crops are annually large and profitable. One child, a daughter, Gertrude E., has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Moses. She is an exceedingly talented young woman and has created an enviable place for herself in the musical world of the country. In her youth she displayed an unusual musical talent and her parents have done much to develop it and have given their daughter exceptional opportunities to pursue musical studies. She was a pupil for several years at the American Conservatory of Music at Chicago, and graduated from that institution when but eighteen years of age, receiving a gold medal in recognition of her remarkable accomplishments. After the completion of the regular course at the conservator}' she took post-graduate work and again graduated from the higher departments with distinction. Her second graduation was accomplished when she was but twenty years of age. She is now an instructor in the piano department of the music department of the Yankton College at Yankton, South

Some years ago Mr. and Mrs. Moses took a little girl into their family to rear. This little girl, Mary Gage, was left an orphan at the time of her mother's death, and was but seventeen months of age when she was taken by Mr. and Mrs. Moses. Although she has not been adopted by her foster parents she has been reared by them as though she was their own child. She is a daughter of Samantha V. Gage, who was the wife of Charles Gage and a sister of Mrs. Edgar Moses.

Mr. Moses is one of the prominent men of his township and county. For many years he served as the chairman of the Adams county institutes, and he is the present chairman of these bodies. With his wife he is a member of the Presbyterian church and has been exceedingly active in the affairs of this denomination. He has been an elder of his home church since 18S9 and a representative of the congregation to the general assembly which met at Saratoga, New York, in 1894. In addition he has represented his congregation at various church assemblies in this state. In politics he is an ardent Republican and a faithful worker in the interests of this party. His work and interest have not been confined to his immediate vicinity, for he has been a representative of his fellow residents of Union township in district and state assemblies. He is greatly esteemed by all whose privilege it has been to know him and to be associated with him in business, political and social affairs and is counted among the strong men of the community in which he lives. Mr. Moses owns a onehalf interest in the Earnsberger Bros. & Moses winter vegetable green house at De-

Charles C. Miller

Charles C. Miller, the subject of this brief sketch, is a native of Pennsylvania. He was bom in Lawrence county, that state, April 14, 1859. He is a son of Jacob and Mary (Reinhard) Miller. His father was born in Germany and came to this country when young, and his mother was born in Pennsylvania. His father died in Pennsylvania and after his death his widow married James G. Miller. Charles Miller was the only child born to his mother as the result of her first marriage. He spent the first sixteen years of his life in Pennsylvania. There were no incidents in his younger life that marked it apart from the lives of the average boys of the time and community. He was educated in the schools of his neighborhood and played his part in the cultivation of his father's place. When he was sixteen years of age he came to Van Wert county, Ohio, and remained in this county for the following five years. Then he removed to Adams county, Indiana, and with the exception of one year spent in Saint Mary's township has spent his entire life in Union township, where he resides.

After he reached Indiana he engaged in farming and has followed this occupation steadily since that time. He spent his life for a number of years in preparing for his present competency. He was an intelligent and progressive man and early saw the advantages of applying modern methods to his work and to using his brain as well as his hand.-*. In time he was able to purchase land for himself, and increased his holdings as the years passed until today he is the owner of a fine farm of ninety acres, all under cultivation, and ranking among the more valuable and productive farms of his section of Adams county.

The marriage of Mr. Miller and Miss Theresa Springer was solemnized in Decatur, July 30, 1882. His wife is a native of Adams county, being bom in Saint Mary's township, June 13, 1863. She is a daughter of Samuel and Pernetta (Pring) Springer. Both of her parents were born in Ohio and spent their youth in that state. After their marriage they removed to Indiana and were among the earlier settlers of Adams county. They purchased land in Saint Mary's township. Her father lived on and cultivated his farm in Saint Mary's township until his death, at the age of sixtytwo. They became the parents of eight children, of whom Mrs. Miller was the fourth in order of birth. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are the parents of four children. These children are: Francis A., Clarence N., Myla M. and Lewis C. Both Mr. and Mrs. Miller are esteemed and faithful members of the Evangelical church of their neighborhood.

In addition to being numbered among the successful farmers of his township, Mr. Miller is considered one of the best citizens of the township. He is a progressive man and keeps in touch with the great movements of the country. He is a man well informed on public questions, and in matters that affect more particularly his own county and township his counsel is frequently sought. He is a good citizen and discharges the duties of his citizenship with judgment and fearlessness. In politics he is a Republican but has never aspired to public office.

Ask almost any man you meet along the roads of Union township, Adams county, whether he knows Mr. C. H. C. Grote and he will hesitate a moment and then ask : "Do you mean 'Henry' Grote?" While Mr. Grote is known on the tax books of his county as " C. H. C. Grote," among" his intimates and the men of the county who grew to manhood with him he is called Henry Grote. But as the poet asked, "What is in a name?" Mr. Grote's individuality is strong enough to show distinctly through any mere appellation, and whether he is called by one designation or the other he is admired and esteemed. He is a native son of Adams county, and was born and reared on the farm on which he still resides and which through the course of years has come into his possession. He was born February 26, 1853, on the family homestead in Union township and is the son of Charles and Caroline ( Kukeberger) Grote. Both of his parents were bom in Germany and came to the United States in their youth. They settled with their respective families in Adams county and were reared in that section of Indiana. After both grew to maturity they were married and continued to live in Adams county. When Charles Grote attained maturity he purchased a tract of eighty acres in Union township. This land was still in a wild state and necessitated clearing and much similar labor before it could be made productive. However, he worked industriously and at the time of his death his farm was cleared and improved and a profitable property. His death occurred June 27, 1878, in the fiftyfifth year of his age. He and his wife became the parents of ten children, of whom nine are still living. These children are: C. H. C. Sophia, the widow of Israel Lee; Caroliiu-, the wife of Frederick Beuckner; Louisa, the wife of William Dittmer; Minnie, Marv, the wife of Frederick Reinking; Charles. Frederick and Hermann. One son died in infancy.

Of this large family of children born to his parents, C. H. C. Grote was the eldest. He spent his boyhood on his father's farm in Union township and received as good a common school education as the schools of his immediate neighborhood made possible. He attended the winter terms of the schools of the district in which he lived, and when he became old enough he assisted his father in the cultivation and management of the family homestead. He became a skilled farmer under the tutelage of his father and he applied the lesson he learned on the home farm to excellent advantage after he had grown to manhood.

The marriage of Mr. Grote and Miss Elizabeth Schoenstedt was solemnized June 2j, 1886. His wife is a native of Ohio, being born in Hancock county of that state, March J9> x857- She is a daughter of Frederick and Agnes (Tecamp) Schoenstedt. Mr. and Mrs. Grote have become the parents of two children : Esther A. and Roland F.

After he grew to manhood and started in life for himself Mr. Grote purchased the family homestead of eighty acres and has continued to live on it and cultivate it. After a few years he purchased an additional forty acres adjoining his farm and now owns one hundred and twenty acres, about eighty of which are under cultivation. He is a modern farmer in all that the term implies and his estate is among the most valuable and best equipped in the township. He rotates his crops with judgment and finds that each year they prove more profitable. He is a man who takes a live interest in the economic and political affairs of his township and county and is a prominent figure in all movements that are designed to advance the industrial and social welfare of his community. With his wife he gives his allegiance in religious matters to the Emanuel Lutheran church and is a consistent and generous supporter of this church and its aims.

Frederick F. Frech

Frederick F. Freeh was born in Rhine, Bavaria, Germany, December 14, 1S36. He is a son of the Rev. Frederick Freeh, who was born in Germany, November 29, 1S09. His mother was Elizabeth (Schaff) Freeh. a native of Wagenheim, Germany, in which city she was born June 14, 1815. Frederick Freeh was a minister in Germany and some time after his marriage decided to come to America. He made his plans accordingly, and severing the home ties that bound him and his wife to the Fatherland started on the then perilous journey across the western ocean. The journey was made in 1839 in a sailing vessel and required thirty-six days. The little family landed in New York in safety and without untoward incident. They had decided to push on westward to Ohio, but found when their ship touched port that they would be delayed because the Erie canal was frozen over between Troy and Buffalo and was impassable for boats. However, with the opening of canal navigation in the spring he started for Ohio and reached this then frontier state. He was a clergyman of the Evangelical Association and preached the doctrines of this denomination in a number of places after reaching Ohio. Finally he settled in Eagle township, Hancock county, and followed fanning in connection with his work as a minister of the gospel. He continued to preach in Ohio until he was retired on the superannuated list in about the year 1870. He lived on his farm in Hancock county from 1851 to November 28, 1885, the date of his death. After his death his widow continued to live on the Hancock county farm until her death, March 17, 1907, at the advanced age of ninety-two years. This estimable couple became the parents of five children, three sons and two daughters. One of their sons died in Germany in his infancy.

Frederick F. Freeh was the eldest of his parents' children. He was about three years of age when his parents decided to emigrate to the United States. At the time his parents settled in Hancock county, Ohio, he was fourteen years old. He was educated in the common schools of Hancock county and grew to manhood on his father's farm. When the call for volunteers to serve one hundred days was issued at the beginning of the Civil war he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served four months with this command. Again, May 4, 1864, he enlisted in Company A, Forty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served throughout the remainder of the war, being finally discharged from the government's service at Washington, D. C. While a member of this latter regiment he was with Sherman's army on its famous march to the sea and was a participant in the hard-fought engagements of Fort McAllister and Bentonville, North Carolina.

Mr. Freeh was married in Hancock county, December 3, 1S67, to Miss Mary A. Graham. His wife was born in Hancock county, August 16, 1839, and is a daughter of George W. and Catherine (Crabel) Graham. Both of her parents were natives of Ohio, her father being bom in Madison county and her mother in Starke county. Her father died when forty-six years of age and her mother lived in Hancock county until she reached the age of seventy-three. Mrs. Freeh was the eldest child of a family of nine born to her parents. She was reared in Hancock county and received her education there. Mr. and Mrs. Freeh are the parents of two children : Nellie, the wife of Frank Mcintosh, and Alice, the wife of Henry Funk. One son and one daughter born to Mr. and Mrs. Freeh died in their infancy, and another son, Frederick, was accidentally drowned by falling into a cistern when he was seven years of age.

Mr. Freeh has led a busy and useful life. He is a successful farmer and has added to his original purchase of one hundred and sixty acres in Union township from time to time until he is now possessor of a fine tract of two hundred acres. He is a modem fanner in all that the term implies and through his intelligence, industry and thrift has' developed an exceedingly fine country property. His farm is very fertile and is highly improved. The draining and fencing are good and the buildings are wholly adequate to the purposes for which they were erected. He is a man of much public spirit and has always taken an active part in the affairs of his county and township. He has served his fellow residents of the township in the important office of township trustee and as a justice of the peace. Mr. Freeh is a member of the Evangelical Association, but both he and his wife are supporters of the Clark Chapel of the Methodist Episcopal church and worship with the members of this denomination. He is a member of the Sam Henry post of the Grand Army of the Republic at Decatur.

Andreas Frederick Thieme

Andreas F. Thieme was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, August 30, 1865. He is a son of Godfrey and Amelia (Reusher) Thieme. Both of his parents were born in Saxony, Germany, and spent their youth in that province of the fatherland. After they grew to maturity they migrated to the United States and were married at Fort Wayne, Indiana. They lived for a time in Fort Wayne, where our subject was born, and in 1867 removed from Fort Wayne to Adams county. They settled on a tiact of land in Union township, Adams county, and they lived on and cultivated this tract until their deaths. Mrs. Godfrey Thieme died at the age of sixty-five years and her husband lived until he attained the ripe age of seventy-one. They became the parents of eight children, of whom Andreas F. Thieme was the sixth in order of birth.

Andreas F. Thieme was one and one-half years of age when his parents left Fort Wayne and settled in Union township. He was reared on the farm his father purchased and secured a common school education in the schools of the neighborhood. He was an industrious youth and improved his opportunities, meager as they were. He attended the winter terms of the schools of his district and as other boys of his neighborhood and day assisted in tilling his father's farm in the summer months as soon as he became old enough to apply himself to this labor. His early life was not an easy one and was filled with hardships and trials. However, his sturdy nature surmounted all obstacles, and he laid the foundation for his future life and success while he worked on his father's estate.

The marriage of Mr. Thieme and Miss Wilhelmena Kruekeberg was solemnized in Union township, September 15, 1889. His wife is a native of Adams county and was bora in Preble township. Soon after her birth her parents settled on a farm in Union township and Mrs. Thieme grew to womanhood in this latter section of Adams county. Mr. and Mrs. Thieme have become the parents of seven children. These children are: Hugo, Walter, Sene, Amos, Ernst, Max and Glenn.

It is no exaggeration to say that Mr. Thieme is numbered' among the prosperous and substantial men of Union township. He is the owner of a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres, all of which is under cultivation. He has improved his land and has brought it to the highest point of productiveness. His land is well drained, fenced and otherwise improved, and the buildings he has erected upon it are substantial and well adapted to the purposes to which they are put. He is a progressive man and believes in applying modern methods and modern machinery to the cultivation of his estate. He has always taken an active part in township affairs and served his fellow residents of Union township for ten years in the important office of constable of the township. Both Mr. and Mrs. Thieme are earnest and consistent members of the Emanuel Lutheran church and both accord their hearty and generous support to the aims and charities of this denomination.

Frederick Thieme

Prosperity and a comfortable degree of competence has come to Frederick Thieme, one of the best known farmers of Union township, Adams county, and he can say with justice to himself that whatever measure of success he has achieved has come through his individual efforts. He had no unusual opportunities when a youth and young man, and his life has been marked by hard work. However, he is possessed with an indomitable spirit that knows no such thing as failure, and his fixed purpose through his life has been to make every effort and hour count for its utmost. He was born in Union township, Adams county, October 1, '1858. He is the son of Andrew and Christina (Kruckeberger) Thieme. Both of his parents were natives of Germany. They spent their youth in the fatherland, and after coming to the United States were married in Union township. Adams county. The father purchased land in Union township and followed the occupation of farming. He was successful and carved a fine estate out of practically wild land. He continued to live on his Union township farm until 1878, when he removed to Thayer county, Nebraska, where he died in 1906, in the seventyfourth year of his age. Six children came

The youth of Frederick Thieme was spent on his father's farm in Union township. There was nothing- about his boyhood days spent on the home farm to distinguish them from the days of hosts of other boys of his time and locality. He passed through the winter terms of the neighborhood schools and from the time he was old enough assisted his father in the cultivation of his farm. He was a dutiful son and did what he could to lighten the burdens of his parents. He learned the wholesome lessons to be learned on a farm and in time became a skilled farmer. He did not have the advantages in educational matters that are offered the average boy reared on a northeastern Indiana farm today, but he made the most of such opportunities as presented themselves to him. He learned the meaning of industry and thrift early in his life and he applied his knowledge later in life to his profit and satisfaction.

The marriage of Frederick Thieme and Miss Sophia Holla occurred in Root township and after this marriage the couple set up a home for themselves, where he now resides. Mrs. Thieme bore her husband one son, Andrew. She died nine months after their marriage. Mr.' Thieme was married again some time after his wife's death. This time he was united to Miss Sophia Kruckerberger. Eight children were bora of this second marriage. These children are: Martin, Richard, Clara, Charles, Paulina, Fred, Sophia and Seymour.

in all matters pertaining to his county and township. He is an advocate of improvement and is a hearty supporter of all movements for the advancement of the industrial, educational and social interests of his section of Adams county. He is the owner of a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres and has improved it and brought it to a high state of productiveness. His land is well drained and fenced and his buildings, recently erected, are substantial and well adapted to the purposes for which they were designed. With his wife and the members of his family he is a member of the Lutheran church and lends his hearty and generous support to this denomination.

Ferdinand Bleeke

Ferdinand Bleeke, an enterprising and successful farmer of Union township, Adams county, Indiana, was born February 23, 1872. He is the son of Frederick and Maiy Bleeke, the father a native of Prussia and the mother of Pennsylvania. The father was brought to America at the age of ten years and here married and settled in Adams county, where he lived during the remainder of his life, his death occurring in his seventy-eighth year and that of his wife at the age of fifty-seven.

Of their ten children the subject of this sketch was the youngest in order of birth and he was reared on his father's farm, receiving his education in the parochial schools of the township. He has always followed farming, in which he has achieved more than ordinary success, and is now the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land, on which he has erected a number of neat buildings, and which is considered in its entirety one of the best farms of the township. Mr. Bleeke gives his undivided attention to his farming interests and has achieved commendable success.