Adams County, Indiana - The whole text, 1907 (part 14 of 16)

E. D. McCollum was born of these worthy parents in Jay county in a time when life meant a strenuous existence to the makers of a new state. His early life was spent on his father's farm, where he learned the lessons that meant much in his later life. He attended the schools of his immediate district and secured such educational advantages as the meager conditions of his time and section afforded. When large enough he assisted his father in the operation of the farm and when his parents went to Minnesota he accompanied them. He continued to live with his parents until the beginning of the Civil war, when he enlisted in Company K, of the Eighty-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He served throughout the war and was a good and faithful soldier. He saw much active campaigning and with the armies of the southwest fought in a number of important engagements. He fought in the battle at Mumfordville and Tupelo, Mississippi; at Meridian in the same state, and at Nashville. He was in the Red River ex- pedition and saw almost continual fighting and skirmishing. Although he saw much actual battle, he escaped without injuries of any kind. At times his clothing was pierced with bullets, but he escaped unharmed. When the war closed Mr. McCollum returned to Indiana and purchased a farm. He cleared portions of this and reduced it to cultivation. He was industrious and painstaking and in a short time found that his farm was proving profitable.

In 1867 Mr. McCollum was married to Miss Catherine Fritz, a daughter of George W. and Virginia Fritz, who were natives of Fairfield county, Ohio. This couple became the parents of eight children, seven of whom are still living. Those living are : Warren F., Lola A., Oakley, Otis, Kemp Counselor, Lizzie, Ora Marie and Leland. Charles Wilson, another child, is dead.

Today Mr. McCollum is pointed out as one of the successful farmers of his neighborhood. His farm consists of one hundred and seventy acres, all of which, with the exception of fifty acres which is timbered, has been improved and is extremely productive. He does general farming and his crops each year are excellent and satisfactory. He has erected a fine and comfortable home on his place, and his barn and outbuildings are modern and well adapted to meet the demands of the farm. He is a Republican in politics and served a term of four years as a justice of the peace. One of his daughters is one of the two women mail carriers of the county. He is a broad-minded man and tolerant of the opinions of others. He is public spirited and takes a lively and intelligent interest in the affairs of his county and state. He is respected and esteemed.

There is in all probability no better known educator in Adams county than J. A. Buckmaster, the subject of this sketch. He has been identified prominently with the educational movements and developments of this county for the past twelve years and has made a place for himself among the leaders of thought in his district. He was born in Jefferson township, Adams county, April 4, 1874. He is a son of David and Sarah (Hutchinson) Buckmaster. His father was born in Holmes county, Ohio, and was married in that state. He migrated to Indiana and brought his young wife with him. He made the long trip in 1852 and settled on a farm which he cultivated. J. A. Buckmaster, his son, was one of a family of five children, four of whom are still living. He was reared on his father's farm in Jefferson township and received his preliminary education in the common schools of the neighborhood. After completing his course in the common schools he taught in Jefferson township for two years. He aspired to a better education and following the completion of his second year as a teacher he entered the Tri-State Normal College at Angola, Indiana. After completing his course in this institution, where he did good work and secured high standards, he returned to his home in Jefferson township. He at once resumed his work as a teacher and has since continued in it. He began teaching when but nineteen years of age and served as an educator for more than twelve years.

lican candidates in the number of votes he G. Mr. Buckmaster is a Republican and received In 1904 he was the Republican has always voted the ticket of this party, candidate for trustee of Jefferson township He is in no sense a public man and has not and was again defeated and without dis- aspired to public office. However, he keeps missing school during the campaign reduced in touch with public changes and events and a Democratic majority of eighty-three votes is well informed upon most political subto a Democratic majority of seven. He owns jects. He and the members of his family and lives on a farm of forty acres in Jeffer- attend the Evangelical church. Fraternally son township, also owns one-third interest Mr. Buckmaster is a member of the Indein a string of oil tools with Mr. J. L. Yancy pendent Order of Odd Fellows. He is the and D. II. Rumple. present teacher of the school of District When the Jefferson Township Telephone No. 2, of Wabash township, and the school

Company was organized a few years ago it was the second mutual company in this part of the county. Mr. Buckmaster was elected its president for the first year and at the end of that term was re-elected for the next year. He has since held the office of secretary for the company two years. This company is now one of the largest,

Willis Frank Johnson

During this time he has proved himself name heads this sketch. He is a native of an able and efficient educator and to his pa- the township in which he now resides, havtience and efforts many youths of Jefferson ing been born on the 1st day of October, township owe their introduction to the 1867. He is the son of James and Chrisworld of culture and intellectual attain- tina (Byers) Johnson. The father was ments. He is a teacher who takes a keen born in Pennsylvania on January 20, 1S20, interest. in the progress of his profession and and died in June, 1S93. The mother was keeps abreast of its progression. He is in- born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1832, dying terested in various associations and attends in January, 1892. They came to Adams sessions of the state meeting and of county county in 1843, entering government land, institutes. He has also frequently taught which now comprises the subject's farm, on vocal music. which they lived until their deaths, The

A. Brewster, a daughter of Daniel and Loverda (Bebout) Brewster. His wife's father is a native of Pennsylvania and came to Indiana in an early day. Four children have

Willis Frank Johnson attended the townbeen born to Mr. and Mrs. Buckmaster: ship schools in his youth and secured.a good Angelo T, Claudie B., Lois L. and Verlyn practical education. Upon attaining nlatuse, '..

years he took up the labors of the farm, which he* has since successfully conducted, and has proved himself one of the really progressive farmers of the locality. All but fifteen acres of this ninety-acre farm are under the plow and are devoted to the production of a general line of crops, such as are common to this locality. In addition to a general line of farming, he gives some attention to the breeding and raising of stock. In politics he is a Republican, while his religious affiliation is with the United Brethren church.

In 1892 Mr. Johnson married Miss Lena Myers, daughter of Henry and Barbara (Shank) Myers, the former an early settler of this county and one of the wellknown early millers. To the subject's marriage have been born eight children : Ivan ; Oro, deceased ; Dora ; Hobert, deceased ; Lula ; Lola, deceased ; Herbert and Minnie.

Bartly Burk

One day in the early decades of the last century a wagon laden with the household effects of a pioneer family made its dusty way across the northeastern boundary of what is now the state of Indiana and toiled onward in the new state, finally coming to the end of its tiresome and hazardous journey in Wabash township. Jay county. The wagon was driven by Bartly Burk, who with his wife and several children had left their former home in Ohio to seek a new one in Indiana. The father was a native of Ohio and was born in that state in the year 1S1S; the mother, also a native of Ohio, was born two years later than her husband. Reaching this state, the elder Burk purchased one hundred acres of land and began to reduce it to cultivation. There followed days of the hardest kind of labor, but the spirit of the men who made the new west was in him and he conquered all difficulties. Befor he had finished clearing his entire purchase he disposed of twenty acres. The remaining eighty acres he soon had improved and all under cultivation. He lived on his Indiana farm until his death. He was a strong personality. He took much interest in state and national politics and was a stanch Whig until the organization of the Republican party, after which event he voted the Republican ticket whenever called upon to exercise his right of franchise.

Bartly Burk, the son of this rugged pioneer, was born on the old farm in Wabash township, October 11, 1858. He was a member of a family of nine children, eight of whom are still living. His early life was spent on his father's farm, where he worked and learned to develop the qualities that make for strong manhood. His education would be considered meager when measured with the educational standards of today, but for the time and environment was the best to be had. He profited by it and got out of his "schooling" all that it was possible for him to do. In 18S1 Mr. Burk was married to Miss Christiana Kelly, the daughter of Jonathan and Esther (Champer) Kelly. Her parents were originally from Carroll county, Ohio, where her father was born, February 14, 1823. Her mother was born January 23, 1S23. In 1850 her parents moved to Jefferson township, Adams county, Indiana, where her father settled eighty acres of timber land. This he cleared and finally brought to a high stage of cultiva- tion. Mr. and Mrs. Burk are the parents and Susan. Those dead are: Sophia, of f^ur children, all of whom are living. Henry, Julia Ann, Frederick, Jacob and These children are: Otis, a Leacher; Lola Lydia.

Mr. Burk is the owner of a fine farm and 186S to Millie Hilleary, the daughter of one that is producing a steady income for its Enos and Rachael (Rickner) Hilleary. She owner. His land is rich and his crops are was one of a family of ten children, of whom large and remunerative. The buildings on the others were: Tillman, Harriet Jane, his farm are ample and modern. He is in Sylvester, an infant now dead, Nellie Ann, every way a respected citizen and a man Nathaniel (deceased), Sarah Lavina (dewhose judgment is deferred to in events of ceased), Rachael, Maniel and Manda. At more than ordinary importance. He is a the beginning of the Civil war Mr. Bobn- Republican in politics and is one of the mover enlisted in Company I of the Sevenstrong men of his party in the section of the teenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and served three months with this command. He again enlisted in the Seventy-first Ohio Infantry and served for two years with this regiment. He again entered the service in the same regiment and company and saw busy times until he was finally mustered out of the government service at San Antonio, Texas, in 1866. War proved to be a serious business with Mr. Bobnmoyer and he saw much active service. He was engaged with his command in several of the larger battles of the war and fought at the battle of Shiloh, through the Atlanta campaign, at Franklin, Tennessee, and at Nashville, Tennessee. Returning to his home in Mercer county,

Martin Bobnmoyer

Ohio, the state lying directly to the eastward of Indiana, has furnished many people who have contributed to the growth and fame of the Hoosier commonwealth. The hardy folk from the seaboard states have made their way across the Pennsylvania mountains, paused a while in Ohio and then either themselves or their descendants have pushed on to Indiana. Among these children of pioneer parents who pushed on to Ohio, after his discharge at San Antonio, he Indiana is Martin Bobnmoyer. His par- resumed his work of fanning and continued ents, George and Lydia (Henninger) Bobn- to operate the farm his father had tilled moyer, were natives of Pennsylvania. They until 1877. In this year he came overland migrated to Ohio and settled in Butler by wagon to Adams county, Indiana, where county, where Martin was born, November he settled in the woods. He soon purchased 25, 1836. Later his parents moved to Mer- forty acres and at once started to clear the cer county, where they lived until their heavily timbered land and to force it to a deaths. They were the parents of a large state of productivity. Years of unceasing family and had fourteen children, nine of toil followed his advent into Indiana and whom are still living. These children are: many struggles he and his wife had. But to Lucie. Polly, Sarah, Martin, George, Mary their hardy natures there was no such word as fail and in the end they met every difficulty a^nd carved from the forbidding conntry a farm that today is as fine as any in its vicinity. The rude home that sheltered the newcomers to the strange land has been replaced by a handsome building and a barn and modern outbuildings are evidences of the thrift and energy of the sturdy farmer and attractive structures. The whole farm is well improved and Mr. Bobnmoyer makes a specialty of bee culture. Two children were born to this couple - George Enos, who lives at home and is married, and Henry Nathaniel, who is dead.

Mr. Bobnmoyer is a man of sound judgment and is a good neighbor and exemplary citizen. He votes the Democratic ticket, as did his father and as does his son, and is an esteemed member of the Christian church. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic at Geneva and a member of the Horse Thief Detective Association of Adams county.

Among the men of the present generation who "have won success and achieved note as tillers of the soil and who have meanwhile kept before them the fact that they owed something to the welfare of their fellow men must be mentioned the name of W. V. Buckmaster. He was born in Adams county, Indiana, November 22, 1865. He was the sturdy son of sturdy parents, who braved the western wilds and created a home for themselves under most unpromising conditions through their own efforts. David Buckmaster, the father of the subject of this sketch, was a native of Holmes county,

Ohio, and married Sarah Hutchinson, who was bom in Wayne county of the same state. David migrated to Indiana and brought his young wife with him. He made the long trip to Adams county in 1S52 and settled on a tract of land which he cultivated with some degree of success. His son, with whom this sketch is concerned, was one of a family of five children, four of whom still survive. Mr. Buckmaster was married in 1SS9 to Miss Elizabeth Thatcher, daughter of Hilman Thatcher. Mrs. Buckmaster's parents came originally from New jersey. Her father was a stone mason and he followed his trade until his advancing years compelled his retirement from active business. Mr. and Mrs. Buckmaster are the parents of four children - Mabel, Lelland, Marie and W. V., Jr. - all of whom live with their parents.

The tract of land on which this family make their home is a fine tract eighty acres in extent. Almost all of the farm is under cultivation and about half of the cultivated area was cleared by the labor of Mr. Buckmaster. There are eight hundred rods of tiling on the farm, and it is by this means thoroughly drained. In addition the farm is well ditched and fenced and as it is furnished with ample and adequate buildings, including a model and comfortable home, it is one of the most productive and valuable properties of its kind in the county. A portion of his land is under lease to an oil producing company, but thus far no wells have been drilled.

But Mr. Buckmaster has found time to interest himself in matters affecting directly the public good. He has been a consistent and a persistent worker in the cause of good roads, a supporter of the movement to install rural telephone lines that would bring farmers in close touch with the outside er, which pursuit he has consistently folworld aed with each other, and in many lowed since. His farm is all under cultivaother -ways demonstrated his puhlic spirit tion excepting seven acres of timber land' and his earnest desire to do all that he might and he gives practical and careful attention to contribute to the general good of his fel- to every detail of the work. The farm bears lows and associates. He appreciates the ad- many evidences of the owner's practical vantages offered by culture and for six years judgment, possessing splendid fences and taught school in his home township of Jef- large and commodious buildings. Aside ferson. He works in harmony with the mem- from farming he also gives attention to the bers of the Democratic party of his county raising of Duroc hogs and a good grade of and has served as a township trustee, which cattle.

office of trust arid responsibility he dis- In politics Mr. Ripley assumes an indecharged to his own and nighbors' entire sat- pendent attitude, refusing to be bound by isfaction. He belongs to the Order of Ben- party dictates. Fraternally he is a member

On April II, 1893, the subject married Miss Lillie Hopf, a daughter oP Michael and Sarah (Kline) Hopf, natives of Germany and Tuscarawas county, Ohio, who after marriage settled in Mercer county, Ohio, where they followed farming. To the subject and his wife have been born five children : Earl, Forest, Fay, Leland and Dorothy. Mr. Ripley takes an active interest in the pubic affairs of his community and is regarded as one of the leading and successful citizens'.

Malcolm Alonzo Ripley

Malcolm Alonzo Ripley, who owns and operates a well-cultivated and highly productive farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Blue Creek township, Adams county, Indiana, was born in Mercer county, Ohio, on the 19th of December, 1866, and is the son of John F. and Elizabeth M. (Edwards) Ripley, both also natives of* Ohio. The father, who was born in Tuscarawas county, operated a saw mill after his removal to Mercer county. His death occurred on the 14th of February, 1876, and his wife died on the 4th day of July, 1886. Five children were born to this union: M. A., the subject of this sketch ; Wildas, Benford, Giles and Ethel, the last named being deceased.

William C. Campbell

William C. Campbell, a leading and progressive citizen of Blue Creek township, Adams county, Indiana, is a native of the locality in which he now resides, having been born April 30, 185 1. He is a son of George and Rebecca (Gilpin) Campbell, the father a native of Maryland and the mother of Pennsylvania. They accompanied their re- spective parents to Ohio in an early day and located in Tuscarawas county, where they were subsequently married. In 1S40 these parents came to Adams county, locating in Blue Creek township, making' a settlement in the dense woods which then covered that region. Here their best labors were given to the clearing of a space sufficiently large to farm and the erection of a rude log cabin, which is characteristic of the early settlements of that day. In due time a comfortable home was created and in the course of years a considerable tract of land was cleared of timber and a splendid farm evolved. In addition to farming the senior Mr. Campbell followed carpentering and shoemaking, having learned the latter trade when a young man. George Campbell died in 187S and his widow is still living, making her home with the subject of this sketch. These parents had eight children: Atha; Sarah, deceased; William C. ; George; Henry C, deceased; Elijah; Rosa, deceased; Cynthia.

William C. Campbell received such an education as was obtainable in the schools of his day and gave early attention to the practical work of the farm. He is now the owner of sixty acres of land, all of which has been cleared and is now under the plow, the place being splendidly improved, with a full set of commodious and substantial buildings. A general line of farming is conducted and in connection some attention is given to the raising of shorthorn cattle and dairying, in which he is successful. Shropshire sheep and Chester White hogs also claim some attention, and in all of these varied lines Mr. Campbell has been successful to a marked degree. He takes a deep interest in all of the public affairs of trie community and in

In 1874 lie was married to Miss Clara Blossom, the daughter of Benjamin and Mrs. (Ball) Blossom. The father was a native of Maryland and upon his emigrating west in an early day he settled in Van Wert county, Ohio, subsequently coming to Washington township, Adams county, Indiana, where he lived a number of years, and then removed to Decatur, until his death. To Mr. and Mrs. Campbell have been bom eight children : Iva, deceased ; Grace, who is married and living in Linden, Illinois; Sylvester, who resides on a farm in this township; Milo, who is a resident of Gas City, Indiana ; Lloyd, who is attending the State Normal school ; Ermine, wjio resides with her sister at Linden, Illinois; Effie, deceased; and True, at home.

John P. Baker

Among the progressive fanners of Jefferson township is John P. Baker. Mr. Baker Was born in Jefferson township, Adams county, Indiana, on February 19, 1880, and is the son of William C. and P'hoebe (Gehm) Baker. These parents were natives of the ojd Buckeye State and came to Adams county in an early day, settling in the woods of Jefferson township, where Mr. Baker applied himself to the clearing of a tract of land and the prosecution of agricultural pursuits. To William and Phoebe Baker were born ten children : Otto, Daniel, Emma, John P., Katie, Jacob, Christenia. Laura, Marion and Noah. The lather of these children was a stanch Democrat but never held public office.

John P. Baker, upon receiving a common school education, entered actively upon the duties of farm life, to which, he has applied himself during the subsequent years. His father, William C, owns three hundred and ninety-two acres of splendid land lying mostly in Jefferson township, this county. This large tract of land is handled in such a manner as to bring the best results and Mr. Baker has just reason to be proud of the success which comes to him in his chosen calling. He raises numbers of sheep and hogs and is considered one of Adams county's leading citizens. He is a stanch Democrat in politics and takes a healthy interest in local public affairs, his influence always being given to the upbuilding of his community. Religiously John P. is identified with the United Brethren church.

On January 23, 1907, Mr. Baker was married to Miss Edna Landfair, daughter of Frank and Emma (Kuhn) Landfair, natives of Black Creek township, Mercer county, Ohio.

Andrew J. Porter

Andrew J. Porter, who occupies and cultivates a splendid, farm of forty acres in Blue Creek township, Adams county, Indiana, was born in Licking county, Ohio, on June 8. 184S. He is the son of William and Margaret (Hoskinson) Porter, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Licking county, Ohio. The father was a fanner and came to Ohio with his father, Matthew Porter, a native of Pennsylvania, but of Irish descent, his great-grandfather Porter having come from the north of Ireland some time prior to the Revolutionary war and settling in the above named state. William Porter lived in Ohio until 1864, when he came to Adams count", settling near Chattanooga, and followed farming until his death on September 15, 1871. His wife died on the 25th of August, 185S. Unto the subject's parents were born twelve children, of whom four are now living, namely : Rebecca, Andrew J., Rachael and John R.

The subject of this sketch attended the common schools of his locality and during vacation periods labored on the farm until twenty years old, when he determined upon a legal career and to this end he studied law in the office of Colonel I. N. Alexander and was admitted to the bar in 1873. He practiced law at Van Wert, Ohio, for ten years and in 1878 was chosen mayor of that city and re-elected two years later. In October, 18S0, he was elected prosecuting attorney of the county and in consequence resigned his mayoralty. In 18S3 he came to Blue Creek township, Adams county, and for a few years lived on his father's farm, subsequently buying the farm which he now occupies.

It is a splendid piece of land and is given a most careful attention by Mr. Porter, who has not had cause to regret his change of occupation. In politics he gives a stanch support to the Democratic party and fraternally is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Van Wert. Ohio, and the Knights of Pythias at Berne.

In 1874 Mr. Porter married Miss Parthena Shaffer, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Garver) Shaffer, the former a native of Preble county. Ohio, who came to Adams county in 1850, locating in Blue Creek township, where he followed farming and carpentering. To the subject and his wife have been bom five children, of whom three are living: William S., who married Susie Calderwood and resides in Dayton, Ohio, where he occupies a position as photographer for the cash register company ; Frances and Giles, who are at home.

Jacob C. Neuenschwander, who successfully cultivates a fine farm of eighty acres in Monroe township, Adams county, Indiana, was born in Putnam county, Ohio, on July 19, 1848. He is a son of Christian P. and Anna (Lehman) Neuenschwander, natives of Switzerland, who came to Ohio in 1S45, and after four years' residence there, removed to Iowa. Subsequently they came to Adams county, Indiana, where they remained until their deaths, the father dying in 1887 and the mother in 1889. They were the parents of fourteen children, of whom the following are still living: Katie, Fanny, Adeline, Elizabeth, Leah. Jacob C, David and Christ.

The subject -of this sketch received his early training in the common schools of Monroe township, where he learned the secrets' of successful husbandry, which occupation has been his life work until recently. He cleared his entire tract of land, placed upon it many permanent and substantial buildings. On December 14, 1905, Mr. Neuenschwander removed to Berne, renting the farm to his son-in-law, who now successfully operates the same. Prior to the improvement of the farm mentioned Mr. Neuenschwander cleared and improved another farm, which he disposed of when removing to the last named place.

In 1872 the subject married Miss Elizabeth Stauffer, the daughter of Christian and Fanny (Habbager) Staurier, natives of Switzerland, and to this union have been born twelve children : Anna, who is married and living on the old home farm ; Adam, who is a carpenter in Monroe township; Lovina, who lives in Berne; Emanuel and David, who reside with their parents; Theressa, who is living in Ohio ; Andrew, who is at home, and five who died in infancy. For many years Mr. Neuenschwander cast his vote for the Democratic party, but recently has given his allegiance to the Prohibition party. He is a member of the Mennonite church and takes an active interest in all things tending to upbuild the best interests of the community. '

Jacob Wullimann

Jacob YVullimann, who is numbered among French township's successful farmers and progressive citizens, was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, on December 21, 1840. He is the son of Clemenz and Elizabeth (Habbeger) Wullimann, who came from their native land to the United States in 1852, settling first in Putnam county. Ohio. A short time later, however, they removed to Adams county, Indiana, settling in the midst of a woods in French township. Here a rude log cabin was erected, in which the family resided for thirty-five years, and here they endured all the privations and hardships which characterized the first settlements, being compelled to haul produce to Fort Wayne with oxen and sleds, and it is related that it was necessarv to take axes with them in order to cut their way through the township, where they followed farming durwopds. These parents had seven children: ing the remainder of their lives. To the Ma*y, deceased; Jacob; Lizzie: Edward, subject and his wife have been born twelve deceased; Lena, deceased, and Anna, who children: Noah, living near Berne; Wilbecame the wife of David Soldner, of Ham, who resides at home and follows the Monroe township. The parents of these trade of carpentering; Edward, Adeline «md children died in 1S92. Jacob, deceased; Anna, David, Mennis,

Jacob Wullimanu received such an educa- Lydia and Melita, who are at home; Bention as was found in the primitive schools of hard, who is deceased.

ous labor incident to. farm life. He always of subject, died and Clemenz married the has followed fanning as an occupation and second time to Elizabeth Liechty, who died has been successful to a satisfactory degree, the same day Clemenz died, and both were possessing now a fine farm of one hundred buried in the same grave, in 1892. and sixty acres, of which one hundred and pasture and woodland. In addition to general farming Mr. Wullimann also gives some attention to the raising of live stock, principally Hereford cattle and O. I. C, hogs. He has made many substantial and permanent improvements on the place, including a fine house and commodious barn. As an evidence of Mr. Wullimann's progressive

Samuel Lehman

Samuel Lehman, who after many years of strenuous and unremitting labor as a successful fanner of this county, is now living a retired life in his comfortable and beautiful home in Berne, was born in Wayne county, spirit it may be stated that he was one of the Ohio, on the 9th of June, 1S41, and is the first men in this locality to place drain tile son of Christian and Magdalcna (Giger) on his farm. He soon proved the value of Lehman. The father was born in Switzerthis and others followed his example. The land on January 15, 1805, and the mother in country was wild when he first came here Canton Berne, Switzerland, on August 2, and much wild game, including many deer, 1802. They were farmers, living in the was plentiful. He has always voted the Re- mountainous region of that country, and publican ticket, though never held office, after their marriage came to Wayne county, Religiously he is a member of the Mennonite Ohio, in 1840, settling on a farm which they church. operated until their deaths, the father dying

In 1S68 Mr. Wullimann married Miss April 30, 1883, and the mother June 5, Katheryn Neuenschwander, daughter of 1872. They were the parents of three chil- Christian and Anna (Lehman) Neuen- dren : John A., who for many years folschwander, who came to this country in lowed farming at Wooster, Wayne county, 1S45, settling first in Wayne county, Ohio. Ohio, but is now retired; Christian A., de- Suhseqtientlv they west to Iowa, but event- " ceased, who also followed farming in ually came cast again and located in Monroe Wayne county, Ohio; and the subject of this

Samuel Lehman received his early education in a rude log cabin and it is an interesting fact that the cabin in which he learned his first lessons is still standing on the old home farm in Wayne county, Ohio. In 1867 Mr. Lehman came to Adams county, settling in Wabash township, where he remained during the summer, and then purchased a farm in Monroe township. He followed carpentering for two years, subsequently settling on his farm, where he lived for thirty-five years, when on December 22, 1903, he came to Berne and has since here resided. During the last fifteen years, in connection with his farming, he also successfully c6nducted an undertaking business. He is the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of splendid land, well improved with many permanent and substantial buildings. In Berne Mr. Lehman erected a beautiful and commodious brick house on Lehman street, which thoroughfare was named in honor of his family. He votes independently and though not an aspirant for public office, he has served two terms as supervisor* of Monroe township. Religiously he is a member of the Mennonite church. Mr. Lehman has taken an active interest in the local history of the Berne settlement, of which he has a complete and authentic record, containing the births and deaths of six hundred families, the only record of the kind in the community.

The subject has been twice married, the first time in 1S65 to Miss Elizabeth Oberly, who was born November 4, 1844, the daughter of Peter and Susana (Von Can- die) Oberly, farming folk of Wayne county, Ohio. To this union was born one child : Josephine, who died at the age of three months. Mrs. Elizabeth Lehman died December 10, 1866, and on October 31, 1867, Mr. Lehman married Elizabeth Sprunger, daughter of Abraham B. and Elizabeth (Zuercher) Sprunger, natives of the same locality in Switzerland from whence came the subject's family. The Sprunger family came to America July 6, 1854. settling first in Wayne county, Ohio, but three months later came to Adams county, Indiana, settling, on the 4th of October, on a farm in the woods in Monroe township. Abraham B. Sprunger, who was born October 7, 1819, died August 2, 1S96, and his wife, who was born August 12, 181 3, died August 16, 1887. To the subject's last union have been born eleven children: William R-, a fanner living in Phoenix, Arizona ; Caroline R., who is living in Berne; Emma, who resides in Blue Creek township, this county; Daniel J., deceased ; Solomon A., of Fort Wayne; Helena M., who is living in Berne; Noah M., of Monroe township; Enos W. and Leonhard, who live in Berne; Matilda E., who resides at home, but is now attending a mission Bible school in Fort Wayne, and Wilbert H., at home.

David Sckindler

lived an honorable and upright life among his fellow citizens, was born in French township on November 19, 1S49. He is the son of John and Catherine (Moser) Schindler, the former of whom was born in Germany, but came to the United States at an early date. He first worked as a farm hand in New York state for eight years for one man and then came to Wayne county, Ohio, where he fanned again until his removal to Adams county in 1846. He first settled in French township, which was at that time in a very unsettled condition. He here cleared and improved a fine farm, which he operated up to the time of his death. He was the father of seven children: Jacob, John, Christ, deceased ; Peter, Catherine, David, Sarah.

The subject of thi* sketch received his education in the schools of his locality and was early inured to the life of a farmer. He is the owner of eighty acres of fine land, on which are raised all the crops common to this latitude and also gives some attention to the breeding and raising of Poland China and Duroc hogs.

January 7. 1872, Mr. Schindler was married to Miss Catherine Schlatter, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Augusberger) Schlatter, who came here in an early day and settled in French township, where they follovved farming. Both are now deceased. Catharina Schindler died December 19, 1 8;V>. aged fifty-six years, two months and sixteen days. John S. died August 12, 1877, aged eighty-two years. Joseph Schlatter died Septeriilvi V. 1872, aged fifty-four years, eleven months and four days. Elizabeth S. died December 1.5, 1897, aged eightythree years, nine 111 ntha and ten d >.ys.

born twelve children, whose names, with the years of. their birth, are as follows : Noah, who was born in 1872; Lizzie, 1874; Cassie, 1S75; Elmer, 1877; Joseph, 1878; John, 18S0; Samuel, JS82; Menno, 1884; Simon, 1886; Ella, 1889; Edwin, 1891; Selena, 1894. The family are members of the Missionary church and occupy a high position in the community.

Elias Hirschy

Elias Hirschy, who is numbered among Wabash township's most successful agriculturists and stock breeders, is a native of this county, having heen born on the 22d of August, JS59. He is the son of Philip and Mary (Richer) Hirschy, natives, respectively, of Switzerland and France. The father was born in 1824 and at the age of twelve years decided that his future hopes laid in America. Putting his convictions into practice, he at once emigrated and located first in Starke county, Ohio, where he lived for twelve years and followed his trade of carpentering. Locating in Wabash township, Adams county, in 1847. he at once entered upon the task of creating a farm out of the dense wilderness which then covered that region, and in this effort was successful to the highest degree, being numbered among the most progressive farmers of the community. He died October 12, 1899, and his wife died December 6, 1S93.

The subject of this sketch obtained a good education in the common schools of his native township and upon attaining mature years entered actively upon the "life to which he had been inured, that of a farmer. He is the owner of eighty acres of as good land as can be found in the township, all under the»p!ow excepting twelve acres of pasture and woodland, and here he carries on general fanning, also giving some attention to the breeding of live stock.

In politics Mr. Hirschy assumes an independent attitude, voting independently. Though not ambitious for public office, he served as school director for three years. He attends the Mission church at Berne.

Mr. Hirschy has been twice married, the first time to Miss Magdalena Stuckey, daughter of Jacob and Barbara (Gerig) Stuckey, natives of Switzerland, who came to Adams county, Indiana, in an early day. The father is now deceased and the mother resides in Berne at the age of seventy-seven. To this union have been bom three children : Matilda, Norman and Meta. Mr. Hirschy's second marital union was with Miss Katie Lehman, daughter of Christ and Anna (Springer) Lehman, early settlers of this county, and to this union were born two children : Selma and Ida. The children all reside at home and received a good education in the public schools of the township.

Martin L. Smith

Martin L. Smith, who resides on a wellimproved farm in Wabash township, Adams county, Indiana, is a native of the locality in which he now lives and was bom November 6, 1859. He is a son of Franklin and Catherine (Rawley) Smith, residents, respectively, of Pennsylvania and Virginia, who came to Indiana in an early day, and such was the roughness of the country at that time that it was necessary for them to cut a road through the woods. To them were born nine children: Elizabeth, deceased ; William R. ; John, deceased ; one who died in infancy; Sidney, deceased; Martin, the subject ; Eliza J. ; Alice, deceased, and Hannah. After the father of these children married they moved to Root township, where he remained a short time, eventually going elsewhere, but before his death returned to Root township and died there in 1871. His wife is still living in Decatur. After her first husband's death she became the wife of J. Rugg, of Decatur, now deceased.

The subject of this sketch received a good practical education in the common schools and early took up the pursuit of farming under the able tutorship of his father. He has been eminently successful as an agriculturist, due to the sound judgment exercised by him in the rotation of his crops and other features which contribute to successful agriculture. He owns one hundred and nine acres of land, on which he has resided since 1887, and to winch he has devoted his entire time. He carries on general farming and gives some attention to the breeding and raising of Poland China hogs and Shropshire sheep. Mr. Smith has erected all of the present buildings on the farm and has also constructed the splendid fences and wellbuilt ditches which now characterize the place. In politics he is a Democrat and has served two terms on the advisor}' board of the township. He is a member of the Evangelical church. In 18S1 he married Miss Isabella Kern, daughter of Philip B. and Mary (Luckey) Kern, early settlers of Union township. To this union were born six children, namely : Philip, Hannah,

Mariox L. Oliver

Marion L. Oliver, manager of the Monroe Grain, Hay and Milling Company, Monroe, Adams county, Indiana, is a native of the state of Ohio, having been born at Greenville, Darke county, on October 8, 1S64. He is the son of Silas and Mary (North) Oliver. The father was also a native of Darke county, Ohio, as was his wife, and they came to Adams county with their family in 1873, settling in Monroe township, where they resided until their deaths. He was a Democrat in politics and himself and wife were members of the United Brethren church.

Marion L. Oliver received his education in the common schools of Adams county and under his father's able instructions was early taught the secrets of successful husbandry. He followed agricultural pursuits consistently and successfully until 1892, when he came to Monroe and accepted a position as manager for J. D. Hale, of Decatur, owner of a grain elevator at Monroe. He continued in this line of business until

' 1907. He is also an extensive dealer in hay, buying and shipping large quantities. For ten years of this time Mr. Oliver was associated in business with J. D. Hale, of De-

1 catur, Indiana, and subsequently with the Carroll Elevator Company, successors to Mr. Hale. At the elevator Mr. Oliver purchased or stored more grain in a single day than any other elevator in the county, amounting at times to nearly ten thousand bushels. In 1907 the Monroe drain. Hay and Milling Company was organized and

Mr. Oliver is its manager. He takes an active interest in genera! business affairs and is considered among Monroe's leading and progressive citizens. He is a stanch Democrat in politics and he is now serving as town clerk of Monroe.

In 1886 Mr. Oliver married Miss Ellen Wistner, daughter of W. A. and Adeline (La Master) Wistner, natives of Washington township, Adams county, Indiana, and descended of earliest settlers. To this union have been born three children, namely: Chauncey, Homer W. and Edward F. Homer is receiving a good education, now attending the normal school at Marion, Indiana.

William A. Bowman

William A. Bowman is a native of Adams county, Indiana, and was born in French township, July 14, i860. He is a son of Gideon and Aline (Sautbine) Bowman. His father was born in Pennsylvania and removed to Indiana, settling in French township in a very early day. He followed the occupation of a farmer all his life and died in French township on his homestead in 189S. Mr. and Mrs. Gideon Bowman were the parents of six children. These children were named as follows : Isaac, Angeline, deceased: William A., Elizabeth, Loretta and Nettie. Gideon Bowman was one of the older settlers of French township and was an ardent Democrat during his life. He was also a member of the Christian church.

Of his father's family of six children William A. Bowman was the third in order of birth and the second son born. He was reared on his father's farm in French town- ship and attended the schools of his neighborhood. In these schools he secured as good a common school education as was possible at that time in his district and he improved all of his opportunities. During the months when there was no session of the district school he assisted his father in the cultivation of his farm and became an expert'agriculturist. October 23, 18S7, he was united in marriage to Miss Abbie Studabaker, born in Wells county, November 28, 1861, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Abram Studabaker. Her father was born in Ohio and her mother, who was Miss Louisa Dewitt before her marriage, was born in New York. Mr. and Mrs. Bowman have become the parents of nine children. Of this number eight are living. Those living are: Earl, Edward J., Bessie, Charles, Russell, Lloyd, Edith and Viola. A daughter, Pearl, is deceased.

After his marriage Mr. Bowman continued to live on the old homestead for several years. In 1901 he purchased his present tract of ninety acres in Washington township and has since resided on it. Since his farm came into his possession he has made many improvements on it. He has ditched it thoroughly and laid in excess of eight hundred dollars' worth of tiling. The entire place is under cultivation with the exception of about three acres, which are covered with a good quality of timber. The buildings on the farm are substantial and the entire place is a fine property. Mr. Bowman is a progressive farmer and applies modern methods to the cultivation of his estate.

any sense a public man. He has never held public office nor aspired to hold any office of this nature. He is affiliated with no fraternal bodies, but he and his wife are consistent and generous members of the Methodist Episcopal church of his neighborhood. He is highly esteemed and counted among the strong men of his community.

Reuben Beery

Reuben Beery, who for more than a quarter of a century has resided on and cultivated a splendid farm in Kirkland township, Adams county, Indiana, and who is popular among the community's leading citizens, was born in this county in 1848, the 10th of January being his natal day. His parents were Eli and Hester (Blossom) Beery, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania and in young manhood came to Fairfield county, Ohio, and here followed farming until the time of his death, which occurred in 1S83. At the time of coming here, in 1838, but few white settlers inhabited the county and the land was densely covered with timber, which gave little promise of the magnificent farms which now characterize this locality. To Eli and Hester Beery were born fourteen children, of whom six are still living. The subject's mother died in 1902.

Reuben Beery received his education in the common schools of this county and his entire life has been devoted to farming. Twenty-five years- ago he obtained possession of his present farm, which consists of eighty acres of valuable and well-cultivated land, which he has been instrumental in transforming- from its original state to its present condition. Many substantial and convenient buildings have been erected and in many respects his farm is considered one of the best in the county.

In 1871 Mr. Beery was married to Miss Elizabeth Steele, daughter of Joseph and Mrs. Steele, both natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Adams county, Indiana, in an early day and settled in Kirkland township, where they followed farming. To the subject and his wife have been born ten children, namely: Flora, the wife of George Bright, Kirkland township ; Rona, the wife of Oran Shaffer; James married Anna Kieffer and is a harness-maker at Hoagland, Indiana ; Maggie and Edith are at home: Jesse married Jessie Springer and resides in this township ; Clyde resides in Kirkland township; Mabel and Virgil are at home, and Ada is deceased. Politically Mr. Beery votes the Prohibition ticket, while his religious affiliation is with the Brethren of Christ church. In the fullest sense of the word Mr. Beery is a self-made man and commands the unstinted respect of his fellow citizens. \

Christian Beery

It would be difficult to find a finer country * estate in the whole of Adams county than that owned by Christ Beery in Washington township. This farm is one that is pointed out as among the model estates of the township and reflects much credit on its owner. He was born in Washington township, of Adams county, November 8, 1850." He is a son of Eli and Hester (Biosser) Beery.

His father and mother had a family of fourteen children, of whom the following survive: Melinda, Martin, Reuben, Christ, John and Daniel W. Eli Beery was born in Pennsylvania and came to Ohio and thence to Indiana. His wife was born in Ohio and after their marriage they settled in Washington township in 1849. At the time the elder Beery and his wife reached northeastern Indiana much of the township was wild land. They were compelled to clear the tract they settled on before it could be made productive. The woods abounded in many kinds of wild game and Eli Beery shot deer, turkeys and other game on the site of the pleasant acres of today. He erected a log cabin and this was the family home for some years. Later he erected a frame dwelling along more modern lines and still later this dwelling gave way to a substantial brick house that is still standing.

The youth and young manhood of Christ Beery was spent on his father's farm. He was educated in the rude schools of his boyhood day and secured as complete a common school education as was possible under the circumstances. When he became old enough he assisted in the work of cultivating the home farm and in time became a proficient tiller of the soil. In 1886 he was married to Miss Martha Burkhead, a daughter of John and Ann Burkhead, who were among the first settlers in Washington township.

The father of Mrs. Beery is dead, but her mother is still living in Washington township. The father of Mr. Beery died in 1879 and his mother in 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Beery have become the parents of two children : Frederick D. and Georgia Irene, both of whom' are living with their parents

*"he lived for a time in Decatur. However, the liking for a farm life became too strong to be denied and he returned to his present place in 1903. His farm is a fine one of one hundred acres, eighty of which are under cultivation. It is one of the most valuable in the neighborhood and easily worth one hundred and ten dollars an acre. It is all improved. The ditches are well placed and the fencing and buildings are substantial and modern. The farm crops are rotated with excellent judgment and are profitable. In addition to a general farming business Mr. Beery carries on stock raising. He deals largely in stock for the market and with his brother has bought and sold horses all over the country. As the recent panic that affected the horse market Mr. Beery

, and his brother lost upwards of thirty-two thousand dollars. Mr. Beery is in every sense a successful man. He is a successful farmer and stock dealer. He is well respected in the community where he resides.

James McCune, one of the successful farmers of Monroe township and a representative citizen of Adams county, was born in Rush county, Indiana, August 3, 1840. He is a son of John and Mary (Aspy) McCune. His father was a native of Kentucky and was born in that state in 18 12. His mother was born in Holmes county, Ohio, in 181 1. The boyhood of John McCune was spent in Kentucky. When still a youth he removed with his father and his family to Fayette county, Indiana. He was educated in the schools of Favette county and lived on his father's farm in this section of the state until he grew to manhood. Following the death of his father John McCune removed with his wife to Hancock county, Indiana. He lived in this county and in Rush county for a short time and then returned to Fayette county. He purchased a farm in this latter county, which is now included in the corporation limits of the city of Connersville. He lived on this Fayette county farm until 1844, when he sold it and removed to Adams county, Indiana. After reaching northeastern Indiana he bought a farm in section 26 of Monroe township, Adams county, and operated this farm until his death in 1873. John McCune took an active part in the affairs of his community. In his early life he was a Whig and after the launching of the Republican party as the successor of the Whig party he affiliated with that organization. He was a member of the Monroe township board of trustees when the membership consisted of three to a township. He was not affiliated with any fraternal organization and was a stanch and generous member of the Christian church. He and his wife became the parents of twelve children, six of whom are still living. Mrs. John McCune survived her husband one year and died on the family homestead in Monroe township in 1874.

Their son, James McCune, was reared on his father's farms in Fayette and Adams counties. He was educated in the common schools of these two counties and secured as liberal an education as was possible under the circumstances. He learned the lessons of a farmer's life and applied these lessons he saw much real warfare. He partici- on it are large and well adapted to the purpated with distinction in the engagement? poses to which they are put. He has done ville, Kentucky ; Yellow Bayou, Louisiana ; Franklin, Tennessee; the two days' siege of Nashville and at Fort Blackley, Alabama. He was twice taken prisoner by the Confedfarming and erected, the buildings on his estate himself. He is in a very broad sense a successful man. He takes a live and intelligent interest in the affairs of his county erates and was severely wounded in the arm and township, and has served his fellow at the engagement fought at Tupelo, Mis- residents in the important offices of township sissippi. He served with his regiment until trustee, justice of the peace and as a memthe close of the war in 1865 and was mus- ber of the school board. He was a justice tered out of the Federal service with an of the peace for Monroe township for fourhonorable discharge. He then returned to teen years and discharged the duties of Adams county and resumed his life as a this exacting office with fearlessness and tiller of the soil. excellent judgment. He is a Republican in

(Jann) Arnold and were born and married in Hanover, Saxony, Germany. Their son, Frank Arnold, was born in Hanover, November 14. 1S40, and was nine years of age when his parents settled on a farm in Wells count}-, Indiana, in 1849. They lived in Wells county about eighteen months then sold their farm and removed to Adams county. Land was purchased in Kirkland township. August Arnold lived about ten years in Adams county and died aged forty-five years. His wife survived until 1902, when she died.

The years that immediately followed the removal of the Arnold family from Germany were filled with arduous toil. Their land in Adams county was rough and demanded that much labor be expended before it could be made productive. However, the difficulties were overcome and the land in , time became profitable. The youth of Frank Arnold after coming to the United States was spent on his father's farm. He secured a meager education in the log cabin school of his immediate neighborhood and progressed satisfactorily in his studies. During the milder months of the year he assisted his father in clearing and improving his farm and was a dutiful and industrious ' son. He was the eldest of his parents' family of six children and naturally more responsibilities fell on him than upon the others. His father's family consisted of the following children: Frank, Melina, Charles, deceased; William, Lewis and Allie, deceased.

When the Civil war was engaging the entire country in a fearful struggle Frank Arnold answered a call for volunteers to help preserve the Union. He enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Forty-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served with this command until he was mustered out of the service in 1S65. His regiment was attached to the Army of the Tennessee and lie saw much actual warfare. After his discharge he returned to Indiana and purchasing a tract of land in Kirkland township, in Adams county, took up the life of a farmer where the demands of war had interrupted it. Two years after the close of the war, in 1867, Mr. Arnold was married to Miss Susanna Berger. His wife was a native of Massillon, Ohio, and a daughter of Nicholas Berger, who, with his wife, were among the older settlers in Adams county. She is a member of a family of six children born to her parents. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Arnold. These children are : Albert, William, Charles, Sarah, Rosa and Edward. All live in Adams county.

Measured by a number of standards, Mr. Arnold is a successful man. Since he began living in Kirkland township he has engaged in a general farming business. He owns a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres, all of which is under cultivation, and raises Durham cattle and a good brand of swine. He appreciates the value of modern methods and applies them in the cultivation of his estate. All of his land is well ditched and drained and the fencing and buildings are substantial and suitable. In addition to his general farming business he operated a saw mill for about ten years and a threshing machine business for about eight years. All of his ventures have proved eminently successful and profitable. He is a man who takes an active interest in the affairs of his township and county and has seived a term of two years in the important office of town- ship supervisor. He is affiliated with the Republican party and is active in the work of this party in his section of Adams county. With his wife he is a member of the German Reformed church.

Otholic Xelsox Tyxdall

O. N. Tyndall, one of the best-known farmers of Blue Creek township, was an educator before he adopted the life of a fanner. In this latter calling' he gained distinction and was also one of the most popular teachers of his city. He was born in Blue Creek township of Adams county, April 21, 1863. He is a son of John C. and Rachael (Wagers) Tyndall. His father was a native of Crawford county, Ohio, and his ,mother was born in Van Wert county of the same state. His father and mother came to Adams county in 1S52 and settled on a farm, that was practically in the woods. They cleared their estate and farmed it for a number of years. Late in life John C. Tyndall practiced law and gained an enviable reputation as a member of this profession. His wife died in i86y and he survived her until 1885. John and Rachael Tyndall became the parents of six children : Eliza J., William J., Mary C, J. W.( of Decatur; O. N. and Nancy, who died in infancy. After the death of his first wife John Tyndall was married for the second time to Miss Athia A. Campbell. Ten children were born of this union. These were named: Alice J., Lizzie, Joseph, deceased; George M.. James T.. Margaret, Belle, Perry, Maude and Esther.

was spent on his father's farm in Blue Creek township. He received his preliminary education in the common schools of his neighborhood and progressed satisfactorily. He decided to adopt the profession of teaching and accordingly after he completed his common school education he entered the normal college at Valparaiso, Indiana. He spent four years in this educational institution and graduated from it in 1S85. After his graduation he returned to Decatur and began teaching. He taught through successive grades of the Decatur schools, and was the first principal of the west ward school of Decatur. In all he taught twenty-one years. He resided in Decatur for ten years and while he was city engineer put down the first crushed stone street in that city. Following the close of his work as a teacher Mr. Tyndall removed to a farm in Blue Creek township, which he had previously purchased. He has been living on his farm for the last ten years, although he has been the owner of it for twenty-two years.

He was married in 1890 to Miss Anna M. Wechter, a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Clancy) Wechter. Mr. and Mrs. Tyndall are the parents of one child, a daughter, Frances, who is living at home keeping house for her father.

The farm owned and operated by Mr. Tyndall is a fine place of eighty acres. It is well improved and all but ten acres are under cultivation. He carries on a general farming business and is a successful man. He raises a mixed breed of swine and disposes of them at a profit. When he purchased his farm only about half of it was improved and cleared. He has improved and cleared the remainder and has it now at a high stage of profitable cultivation. It is excellently drained and fenced and the farm buildings are adequate and commodious. Mr. Tyndall is a Democrat in politics and has served in public capacities with much credit to himself. He was deputy county surveyor for six years and has served his fellow residents of Blue Creek township in other valuable manners. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and attends the Methodist Episcopal church.

Sylvester C. Tinkham

Sylvester C. Tinkham is a native of Adams county and was born in Blue Creek township, July 12, 185S. He is a son of Dennison and Margaret (Scoles) Tinkham. His father was born in Vermont and came to Ohio with his parents and located near Columbus. His father was a farmer. Mary Tinkham was the daughter of early settlers in Ohio and was born in Knox county. After his marriage in Ohio Dennison Tinkham removed to Indiana with his wife. He settled in Adams county in 1S34. The county was almost all wild land at this time and game and Indians were common. The elder Tinkham shot deer, wolves and bears on the site of his present property. The nearest trading point was Fort Wayne, and Dennison Tinkham hauled his produce to this city to find a market. In time he succeeded in clearing his farm and in making it one of the best and most valuable in Blue Creektownship. His wife is since dead, but he is still living in Blue Creek township at the advanced age of ninety-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Dennison Tinkham became the parents of ten children, seven of whom are

The youth of the subject of this sketch was spent on his father's farm in Blue Creek township. He attended the sessions of the rude schools of the neighborhood and secured as complete an education as was possible under the circumstances. He was an industrious youth and a dutiful son. He learned the wholesome lessons to be learned on a farm and applied these lessons to his profit in his after life. He lived on his father's farm and assisted in its cultivation until he grew to manhood.

Mr. Tinkham was married in 1894 to Miss Phoebe Murray. His wife is a native of Adams county and a daughter of Horatio Murray, who was among the oldest settlers in the northeastern section of Indiana. Her parents lived in St. Mary's township for many years, where they followed the occupation of farming, and then removed to Decatur. Mr. and Mrs. Tinkham are the parents of three children. The eldest of this family, Floyd, died some years ago. Alta G. and Dewitt are still living at home with their parents.

The present farm owned and occupied by Mr. Tinkham is a fine tract of one hundred and fifty-seven acres. He came into possession of it about thirteen years ago and has resided on it continuously since. Of the total acreage one hundred and thirty acres are under cultivation. The land is exceedingly fertile and it has been improved until it is a valuable and profitable property. The land is well drained and substantially fenced and the buildings are attractive and comfortable. A general farming business is carried on bv Mr. Tinkham and he raises some good breeds of swine. Mr. Tinkham dustrious youth and made the most of such is a man of much public spirit. He takes a opportunities as presented themselves to live and intelligent interest in all matters affecting the prosperity and welfare of his home township and is a leader in movements for the advancement of the commercial and industrial growth of the county. He is not affiliated with any fraternal body, but with his wife is an ardent and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is active in the work of this church and contributes generously to its support.

him. He followed farming in his later youth and assisted his father.in the work of clearing, improving and cultivating his farm. He stayed on his father's farm until he reached his manhood. For a few years after this event he worked in various parts of the county and purchased his present farm located within two miles of Berne in 1900. During the interval between leaving his father's home and his purchase of his present farm he engaged in the threshing business and the saw mill business. He followed threshing for fifteen years and did much work of this kind in Adams county and the adjoining Ohio county of Mercer. Christian E. Stuckey, one of the prosper- He also ran his saw mill for ten years, ous farmers of Monroe township, Adams Mr. Stuckey is now living on his farm.

county, is of Swiss descent on his father's It is a tract of fine land, comprising eight)' jide. He was born in French township, acres, sixty of which he has under cultiva- Adams county, January 8, 1867. He is a tion. The land is exceedingly fertile and son of Christian and Elizabeth (Christuer) valuable and the crops it produces each year Stuckey. His father was born in the canton are large and profitable. Since he came into of Berne, Switzerland, where he grew to possession of his farm Mr. Stuckey has manhood. He emigrated to the United greatly improved it. He has it thoroughly States and located in French township of ' drained and well fenced, and the residence Adams county in 1858. He purchased land of brick is' as handsome and comfortable a and followed farming during his residence home as any in the entire township. Re- in this township. He was married in Adams county and reared his children there. He died on his home farm in 1S75. His wife is still living in" Berne. This estimable couple became the parents of two children : Christian E. and Frederick. The latter is living on a farm in Mercer county, Ohio.

He was married in 1888 to. Miss Caroline Baker, a daughter of Jacob and Caroline (Bolenback) Baker. His wife is a native The youth of the subject of this sketch of Mercer county, Ohio, and her mother was spent on his father's farm. He secured still resides in Mercer county, Ohio. Her his early education in the common schools of father is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Stuckey his neighborhood and was brought up to the are the parents of the following children: life of a tiller of the soil He was an in- Walter J., studying for the ministry of the

The Democratic party claims the political allegiance of Mr. Stuckey. He has been active in the- political affairs of his township and has served as a trustee for five years. He is not affiliated with any fraternal body and with his family supports the German Reformed church.

Christian C. Beer

Christian C. Beer is a native of Adams county, being born in that section of Indiana, August 30, 1866. He is one of the most highly esteemed and best known men , of his township. He is a son of Christian and Barbara (Dubach) Beer. His parents were born in Germany and emigrated to the United States and settled in Adams county when the county was but thinly settled. After reaching the United States they lived a few years in Ohio and followed the occupation of farming. However, they believed their fortunes would be bettered by remov- ' ing to Indiana, and accordingly they came to this state. The father of the subject of this sketch followed farming all of his life in this country and in time he possessed a good farm, which he has cleared and improved. He is now living in Berne. His . wife died in 189s. He and his wife became the parents of a family of eleven children and of this large family eight are still living. The youth of Christian C. Beer was spent on his father's farm in Monroe township. He was educated in the common schools of the neighborhood, and was an apt and diligent pupil. He spent the winter months in the school and during the milder months of the year assisted his father in improving and cultivating his farm. He contributed his share to the work on the home farm from the time he was old enough to do any farm work. He was a dutiful son and took many of the cares and burdens of the farm from the shoulders of his parents. He lived on the home place until he grew to manhood.

The marriage of Christian Beer and Miss Sarah Ellenberger was solemnized in Adams county in 1888. Mrs. Beer is a daughter of Henry and Katie (Baumgartner) Ellenberger. Her father was a native of Adams county and with his wife settled in Monroe township among the first settlers to enter this section of the county. His wife's parents are still living in Berne. Mr. and Mrs. Beer have become the parents of twelve children : Harvey, Lavina, Caroline, Delia, Lillie Ruffina, Dora, Ermine, Roselle, Jesse, Edna and Elmer.

Mr. Beer has lived on his present place, which is located three miles north of Berne, for the last fourteen years. It is a good farm of eighty acres, seventy of which are under cultivation. The place is well improved and is a very productive estate. The land has been much improved since it came into the possession of the present owner, and he has added much tiling and bettered the buildings and fencing. His home is a fine brick residence that is a model of its kind, and hi? outbuildings are good and commodious. Recently he erected a large new barn on his place. In addition to a general farming business he is a buyer of stock and neighborhood and is in all respects a model He was educated in the schools of his imcitizen. He is highly esteemed and has mediate neighborhood and secured as thorhosts of friends and acquaintances, who ough an education as the times and circumhave entire confidence in iiis judgment and stances warranted. He was an industrious learned the wholesome lessons to be learned John J. Soldner is a native of Wabash on a farm and applied the lessons thus township, Adams count)', Indiana, and was learned to his profit in his after years. He horn August 28, 1854. He is a son of John continued to live on his father's estate until and Maria (Staufter) Soldner. His father he reached manhood. After his marriage was born in Strasburg, Alsace-Lorraine, he lived on other places until 1SS1, when he Fiance. This province has since been ceded purchased his present farm of eighty acres, to the German empire as the forfeit of the Air. Soldner was married in 1876 to Miss defeat in the Franco-German war. He was Catherine Huscr. Her father was born in born in 181 5. He served with distinction in Adams county November 6, 1853. Her the French army for seven years and cmi- grandfather, Philip Huser, came to grated to the United States in 1845. After Indiana and settled in French townreaching this country he resided for five ship of - Adams county when the years in Orrviile. Ohio, and was variously land was infested by Indians and when employed during his residence in the Luck- they were the neighbors and associates of eye state. At the expiration of his five the while settlers. She was the second years' residence in Ohio he came to Indiana child born to her parents, who are the father and purchased a farm in Wabash township and mother of nine children. She was of Adams county. The land he secured was reared on her father's farm in French townwild and unimproved, but he set to work to ship and was educated in the township clear it and make it profitable. As the years schools. Mr. and Mrs. Soldner are the parpassed he brought more and more acres tin- ents of seven children, three of whom are der cultivation and finally cleared the entire still living. These children were named: tract. Mis farm is situated three miles Sarah A., deceased; Prudence E.. Matilda, southwest of Berne and consists of one hun- deceased; Aldina, deceased; John C., Ivy, dred and seventy-nine acres. He resided William H., deceased, and Noah X.

When Mr. Soldner purchased his tract of land in Monroe township it was unimproved. He cleared it as the years passed and added the necessary improvements. He thoroughly drained the land and ditched and tiled it and erected fences and a dwelling. This dwelling is substantial and he added a large and modern barn to the farm's equipment recently. His land is exceedingly fertile and at a high state of productiveness. He carries on a general fanning business and in addition raises much stock. His -breeds of cattle and Poland China swine are among the best in the township. He is a man who is wide awake and takes an active interest in the affairs of his county and township. He has served his fellow residents of the township in the important offices of road supervisor, assessor, as which he served five years, and trustee, serving in this latter office from 1900 to 1904. He is a member of the Democratic party and active in party councils and work. Pie had charge of the building of the six miles of road known as the C. E. Bolinger pike. With his wife and the members of his family he is a member of the Mennonite church at Berne and gives this denomination and church his hearty and generous support. He t is known to his associates as a sound and substantial man and his advice is frequently sought on matters of great importance to the community in which he resides.

John S. McClain is numbered among the most successful men and most prosperous fanners of Monroe township, Adams county. He is a native of Ohio, being born in Licking county of that state, November 4, 1 84 1. He is a son of John and Mary (Stephenson) McClain. His father was bom in Pennsylvania in 1S0S, and his mother was born in Ohio in 181 1. When John McClain, the father of the subject of this sketch, was still a young boy he removed with his father, Arthur McClain, and his mother to Ohio. The family first located in Richland county, but after a few years removed to Knox county. Following the death in this latter county of Arthur Mc- Clain his son John removed to Licking county. About this time he married Mary Stephenson and lived in Licking county on a farm until 1852, when he removed to Indiana. When John McClain came to Indiana he settled in Adams county. He took up fanning in Monroe township. He settled a tract of wild land and after some years of arduous toil succeeded in clearing the greater portion of it and in bringing it under cultivation. His first wife died before he came to Indiana, in April, 1848, and he married again. By his first marriage he had seven children : Anna, Arthur, Margaret J., John S., Cynthia E., William and a child that died unnamed in infancy. His second wife was Maria E. Sousalin and she became the mother of three children. These children are: Mary L, Caroline L. and Newton H. John McClain lived on his farm until his death, February 27, 1894.

The youth of John S. McClain was spent on his father's farm in Monroe township. He attended the winter sessions of the schools of his neighborhood and secured as good an education as was possible under the circumstances. He assisted in the cultivation of his father's estate until he reached his majority. At the time of this event the country was ringing with calls to arms in defense of the Union. The fever of war got in the veins of young McClain and he hurried to the defense of his country's flag. He enlisted in Company I, Eighty-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, which regiment was attached to the Sixteenth Army Corps, and he saw nearly three years of service. His command took part in many fierce engagements and was present at the battles of Mumfordsville, Fort Derusse, Pleasant Hill and Yellow Bayou, Louisiana; Tupelo, Mississippi ; Nashville, Tennessee, and Fort Blakley, Alabama. He was finally mustered out of the Federal service with his regiment in 1865.

After the close of the war Mr. McClain returned to his home in Monroe township and remained there for some years, managing and cultivating the family homestead. With the exception of a year spent in the hardware business at Berne, Adams county, and one year spent in Iowa and Nebraska, he has always resided in Adams county and operated the family's original farm, a part of which he now owns. He has always followed farming, the only interruptions to this pursuit being the time he spent in Berne and in the west and two terms when he taught school in Monroe township. His present estate is a fine farm of eighty acres in section 26 of Monroe township. It is most admirably located and is very fertile. The tract was originally entered by the father of the present owner from the government in 1839, although the original owner did not remove to it until 1852. The original patent deed to the land is in the possession of Mr. John S. McClain. He is a public-spirited man and takes a live interest in the affairs of his township. He votes the Republican ticket, but has not held or aspired to public office. He is a progressive man and believes in applying modern methods and ideas to the cultivation of his farm, and his crops are always profitable.

Newton H. McClain was born in Adams county, Indiana, December 4, 1857. He is a son of John and Maria (Souslin) Mc- Clain. His father was born in Licking county, Ohio, November 4, 1841, and his mother was a native of Indiana. He was the youngest of his father's children by his second marriage and grew to manhood on his father's farm in Monroe township. He was educated in the schools of his neighborhood and learned the wholesome lessons a life on a farm teaches. As a young man he assisted his father in the cultivation of his farm and when he grew to maturity engaged in farming for himself.

In 1884 Mr. McClain was united in marriage to Miss Sylvia E. Harris, who was born iir Knox county, Ohio, and who came to Indiana and settled in Adams county with her parents in 1864. She is a daughter of Thomas P. and Eliza (Poterfield) Harris. After her parents came to Adams county they followed the occupation of farmers for a short time. Her father opened a store in Berne and did a general merchandizing business for the farmers of the neighborhood during the year 1S71. This store was the first opened and operated in Berne. It was established before the railroad had entered the little village. He conducted his general store for one year and then returned to his farm. After residing six years on his farm he went to Decatur, \vhere he was employed in a store for two years. Returning to his farm, he spent the next six years in its cultivation and then removed to Henry county, Indiana, where he lived until his death in 1905. He and his wife became the parents of a family of six children, all of whom are still living.

Mr. and Mrs. McClain are the parents of five children. These children are: Melda M., Eva J., the wife of Edward W. Tumbelson; Nora G., attending school; Paul H., also attending school, and Luella.

Mr. McClain is the owner of one hundred and forty-seven and three-quarters acres of excellent land. Almost all of the land is under profitable cultivation. He allows sixteen acres to remain in timber and pasture land and cultivates the rest. He is a progressive man and one who appreciates the benefits of modern methods and ideas. He employs these methods and ideas in the cultivation of his tract and has made of it one of the most attractive in the township, as well as one of the most valuable. He raises cattle and swine for the market and his strains of cattle and Duroc swine are among the best in the township. In addition he ^raises a fine breed of Norman and Belgian horses. His crops are always large and he feeds the greater part of the products of his farm to his stock. His place is well improved and thoroughly drained. He has laid in all about sixteen hundred rods of tiling and has fenced his entire property. He is a member of the Republican party, but has never sought or held public office. He is a member of the Berne Lodge, No. 208, Knights of Pythias, and of the Methodist Episcopal church.

John P. Becker

There is a ringing note of perseverance and indomitable courage about the life of John P. Becker that marks it apart from many lives that have been contemporary with it. The man himself is as fine an example of courage and determination as could be met in all northeastern Indiana, and his achievements show that there is but little that cannot be accomplished if a will is behind efforts made toward success. Although Mr. Becker is now one of the prosperous and successful farmers of Adams county, he was twenty-five years of age before he had ever split a stick of wood or harnessed a horse. He was born in Schaffhausen, Kreis, Saarlouis, Prussia, Germany, August 30, 1839. He is a son of Morris and Anna (Tanner) Becker. His parents lived and died in the fatherland. John spent his youth and young manhood with his parents in his quaint native German village. He was educated in the public schools. When fifteen years old he commenced work in the coal mines one thousand feet below the surface of the earth, and was variously employed, and served three years as a soldier in the German army until he readied his twentyfourth year. At this time he decided to emigrate to America. Accordingly he severed the ties that bound him to the fatherland and setting his face toward the sinking sun, sought his fortune in a strange land, among strange people. lie landed in the United States in 1S65 and pushed westward to Ohio. His first stopping place was in Stark county, but after a short residence in this county he came on to Summit county, Ohio. Here he resided, following the occupation of a farmer until 1878, when he

-"township within three miles of Decatur. This land was covered with a heavy growth of timber and had been owned by fourteen different people before it came into his possession.

It is doubtful if there was a more uninviting piece of land in the entire county than that purchased by John Becker when it came into his possession. Fourteen owners had tried to make it productive and had failed. They in turn gave it up and sought more favorable locations. This was anything but an encouraging prospect for a young man who had worked almost all of his life in the coal mines of his native land and had had but a comparatively few years of practical farming experience. However, it is just here that the indomitable will of John Becker , asserted itself. He viewed his land and realized that a titanic work lay before him before it could be made productive and profitable. But he knew that it could be made productive and profitable if sufficient labor and energy were devoted to the task. He also realized that he possessed the determination and the energy to conquer this difficult proposition and he set to work to do it.

» The admirable state of his farm today, with its broad acres, well cleared and yielding excellent crops, attest in large and convincing measure the industry and perseverance of John Becker.

In the same year in which he came to the United States Mr. Becker was married to Miss Mary Luxenburger. She was also born in Germany and is a daughter of Michael and Kathcrine (Rupp) Luxenburger. They died in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Becker have become the parents of twelve children. All of these children are living with the exception of a son, William, who died in his infancy. Those living are: Katie, Anna, John, Morris, Maggie, Matthias, Mary, Joseph, Frank Tiny and Frederick.

The farm that is now owned and operated by Mr. Becker consists of one hundred and thirty-one acres. Of this amount one hundred and twenty acres are cleared and under cultivation. The remaining ten acres are in timber and pasturage. In addition to a general farming business Mr. Becker raises a good quality of Duroc swine and cattle. He raises cattle and swine for the market and feeds the greater share of his farm products to his stock. He has his place well fenced and drained and the buildings he has erected are comfortable. In politics he is a Democrat and has served as a township supervisor. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church and a consistent supporter of this faith.

Jacob Richard- Graber

There -is, in all probability, no man among the residents of Adams county who can lay any claim more justly for consideration at the hands of his fellow residents of the county than can J. R. Graber. He is a man and citizen who has been before his fellows for many years in public capacities and has won admiration and esteem for his fearlessness of purpose and his honesty of life. He was bom in. Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, January 6, 1S49. He is a son of Jacob R. and Hannah (Richard) Graber. His father-was born in France in 1S1S and came to the United States with his parents

moved to Lancaster county. The grandfather of the subject of this sketch was Daniel Graber, who lived in France and who died there when a comparatively young man. His grandfather on his mother's side was Jacob Richard, of Wittenberg-Stukard, Germany. He was a millwright by trade and lived to the unusual age of one hundred and three. His wife was more remarkable as an example of longevity. She lived until she was one hundred and seven years old. His mother's famiiy came to this country in 1800 and settled in Pennsylvania. Later they removed to Stark county, Ohio. - When the subject of this sketch was nine years of age his parents left Pennsylvania and removed to Indiana. They settled on a farm bordering the St. Joe river eleven miles

, . north of the present site of the city of Fort Wayne. They secured their land in 1858 and improved it as the years passed. His father followed farming and. was a successful man. He was a devout member of the Mennonite church and was a preacher of this denomination for fortv-eie;ht vears.

J. R. Graber spent his boyhood on his father's farm in Allen county. He received * as good an education as was possible in the country schools of the period. Pie learned the lessons of a farmer's life on his father's homestead and became in time a successful and resourceful tiller of the soil. In 1S71 he purchased a tract of land in French . township, Adams county, and commenced to till the soil on hi's own responsibility. Pie improved his land and under his efficient direction and able management it became one of the finest estates in the county. He improved it and erected suitable and commodious buildings. He lived on this tract until he was selected to manage and conduct the county poor farm. This place he took charge of December 8, 1S95. The Adams county poor farm is a large tract containing two hundred and seventy acres. When Mr. Graber became superintendent of the farm he set to work to make it a model establishment of its kind in the state. The building of the house or infirmary cost thirty-three thousand and sixty-six dollars, but is worth much more than this today. Under the able management of Mr. Graber the county farm has been materially improved. He has devoted all of his time and attention to his work and has discharged his obligations to the citizens of Adams county with intelligence and to their entire satisfaction.

The marriage of Mr. Graber and Miss Lydia Schlather was solemnized in 1871. On September 10th of that year he purchased his farm containing one hundred and twenty-two and one-half acres situated in French township. His wife is a daughter of Joseph and Lizzie (Augsburger) Schlather. Her father was bom in France and came as a youth to this country. He first lived in Pennsylvania and later removed to Ohio. He came among the earlier settlers to Indiana. Mrs. Graber was born in Adams county, January 7, 1849. Five children have come to bless this union: Joseph, living in French township; Lucy, the wife of Ephraim Hirschy. a farmer "of Beaver county, Oklahoma; Albert, connected with the SchafTer Hardware Company of Decatur, and who taught school for five years before his marriage; Lizzie and John IP, both at home with their parents'. The mother of Mr. Graber is still official he has always lived an exemplary hundred acres for one thousand seven hunlife. He and his wife are esteemed mem- dred dollars, but fifteen acres of which were was the first home of the family in Indiana. Like other pioneers, the family was confronted with the labor of clearing their farm and making it productive. Hard work resulted in bringing the entire farm under cultivation and in time substantial barns and outbuildings, and a comfortable residence was erected, and Israel Stonebumer and then to realize that within the memory to Decatur, where he lived a retired life unof men still living these farms were nothing til his death, May 26, 1903. He conducted adverse conditions to reclaim the smiling farms their descendants inhabit today contended with forests, swamps and other oprotated witlrcare and he tilled his farm in a highly intelligent manner. He was a stanch adherent of the Democratic party and a member of the German Baptist church. His wife was an estimable woman. Nine children were born to this estimable couple. With the exception of one child all grew to is a son of such pioneer parents, who, although they came to northeastern Indiana after the first rush of settlers, made their farms out of heavily timbered tracts. He was born in Hocking county, Ohio, February 9, 1850. His parents were Israel and cation in the English branches as was possible under the conditions that then existed. * When he attained his majority he decided to start out for himself. He worked for three years as a farm hand for various men of his section of the country and when twenty-four years of age purchased eighty acres of land in section 15 -of Kirkland township. This land he tilled in a modern and rational manner and had it soon in a satisfactory condition. In 1S74 he married Miss Sarah R. Kistler, a daughter of Stephen and Mary (Bowman) Kistler. His wife's parents were natives of Trumbull county, Ohio. The finely improved farm owned by Jesse AY. Stoneburner was not a finely improved farm when he secured it. In fact, the land was timbered and in a rough state. To bring it under cultivation he labored hard. , In time, however, he cleared his land and drained it and laid tiling through it until it became one of the model estates of its kind in the county. He is not a man who is contented with half measures. He must have the best, produce the best crops possible, and this spirit spurred him on to more and more improvements. He built a handsome and comfortable residence, large barn ' and other necessary outbuildings and made his farm one of the show places of the neighborhood. In 1903 he purchased an additional eighty acres in section 27 of the same township, and this farm, under his son's management, is also highly productive and well improved.

During his active life Mr. Stoneburner has taken an interested part in the affairs of his township. He is a Democrat so far as his political affiliations are concerned. When a young man he was an active worker in the interests of his party and was elected a justice of the peace, which office he held for four years. Later he was elected township assessor, and held this important and exacting office until 1S94. He and the members of his family give their support to the German Baptist church and he is an elder of the local congregation. The Stoneburner family is one of the most highly respected in Adams county. To Mr. and Mrs. Stoneburner ten children were born : Amos, Viola, Mary C, Victoria, Floyd, Miles W. and Alice, a twin, are living. Stephen L., Ida L. and Willis W., the other twin, are dead.