Allen County, Indiana - The whole text, 1889 (part 14 of 17)

George W. Willbur, a prosperous farmer of Milan township, was born in 1840 in DeKalb count}', Ind., one of six children of Charles and Catharine Willber. His father, a native of Vermont, born in 1792, at Windsor, when a small boy moved with his parents to New York, where he remained until he was forty-two years of age, when he came to DeKalb county, where he was one of the earliest settlers. He cleared a farm and erected substantial buildings, and having passed through the hardships of pioneer life, in the spring of 185 1 he sold out and came to Milan township, locating on the ridge road, where his son now resides, and where the father died in 1S77. The mother was born in 1807, at Watertown, N. Y., and died at the old homestead in the fall of 1856. George W. received the rudiments of his education in the pioneer log school-house. As a farmer, he has flourished, and is the owner of 300 acres of fertile soil, in one of the finest locations in the county, upon which he has handsome buildings. March 25, 1869, he was wedded to Mary, daughter of James and Rebecca Vandolah. She was born in Perry township in 1S40 and died in 1880. Her only child, Catharine, died in infancy. In 18S2 he was married to Ella, daughter of Solomon and Matilda Richards, by whom he had two children, Mary M. and Goldie M., both deceased. Mrs. Willbur was born in 1852 in Wayne count3% Ohio. Mr. Willbur patriotically enlisted in Company D, Thirtieth Indiana volunteer infantry for three years or during the war, and was engaged in the following leading battles of the war: Shiloh, Stone River, Chickamauga, Murfreesboro, Kenesaw Mountain, Lovejoy, Gainesborough, and among many others. He is a member of the G. A. R. and of the Masonic order. He and wife are members of the Lutheran church.

Gottlieb Schafer, trustee of Milan township, was born in German}-, March 21, 1846, and at the age of eight years came with his parents to America in December, 1854. They made their home first in Wayne township one year, and then removed to St. Joseph township, where they resided nine years, finally settling in Milan township in the fall of 1864. Mr. Schafer's father was born in Germany, in June, 1S06, and died Octo- ber 19, 1888; the mother was born October 11, 1815, and is still living, active and bright for her age. Mr. Schafer was educated during one year in Germanj% and the remainder of his education he obtained in this country. He has been quite successful in life, and has a good farm of 155 acres which is handsomely improved and well under-drained. He was married August i, 1872, to Rosina Federtpiel, and they have had the following children: Caroline, Frederica, Christina, Louisa, William, Anna, Charles, Wilhelmina, Rosina and Margaret. Mr. Schafer is a popular and influential gentleman, and he and his family are highly esteemed.

Willis B. Brooks, of Milan township, was born in Erie count}', Ohio, January 20, 1844. He came with his parents to the farm where he now resides, in i860. His father was born in New York, January 8, 181 7, and came with his parents to Ohio. He cleared the forests from his farm and died November 24, 1S82. The mother, who was born in Maryland, October 25, 1819, is living at the home of her son and enjoying excellent health. Mr. Brooks was married to Marj- Ann Spindler, November 26, 1865, and eight children have blessed their union: Charles, born October 11, 1868; Mary E., May 20, 1869; John W. (deceased), October 3, 1870; Delbert W., born July 10, 1872; WaUer A. (deceased), November 22, 1874; Emma D.,"born June i, 1878; Clarence Paul (deceased), May 16, 1881; Grover C, born July 3, 1884. Mr. Brooks lives on an excellent 120-acre farm, where he has followed agriculture as an occupation. He and wife are members of the Lutheran church, and are highly esteemed by a wide circle of acquaintances.

William Ehle, the third child of his parents, was born in Saxony, August 4, 1849. He came with his parents to Fort Wayne in the fall of 1861, and then removed to Adams county, returning to Milan township in 1 88 1. The parents reside in Fort Waj-ne, the father at the age of seventy-two years, the mother sixty-nine. Mr. Ehle was married June 9, 1872, to Sarah Breiner, who was born in Schuylkill county, Penn., August 18, 1855. Her parents, natives of Pennsylvania, moved to Ohio and then to Adams county, Ind., in 1862. Her ancestors came over from Germany 200 years ago. Her mother's people came fromthe Palatinate, German}^ and the forefathers on both sides fought in the revolution. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Ehle: August (deceased), December 12, 1873; John, January 4, 1874; Alfred September 12, 1876; Maggie, February 6, 1878; Ida, August 4, 1880, died September 13, 1881; Eddie, May I3,'i884; Emma, July 24, 1888. Mr. Ehle worked in a spoke factor^' in Fort Wayne for some time before he began farming. He is the most successful of the 3'ounger farmers of the township, having 2S0 acres, 200 of which are well under-drained. He has cleared by his own efforts 200 acres of land, and deserves to enjoy his comfortable surroundings.

A worthy and popular farmer of Milan township, William A. Spindler, was born in Delaware county, Ohio, June 25, 1846, and came with his parents to Milan township in April, 1864. He owns a good farm of eighty acres where he resides, and his farm is well improved. Mr. Spindler was married to Harriet Stofer, of German descent, whose parents were natives of Pennsylvania; her father died in 1S57: her mother, who is living at the age of seventj^-six, is a descendant of one of the Hessian soldiers who surrendered to Washington during the revolution. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Spindler: John W., born June 23, 1872; David F., November 24, 1874; Ehzabeth A., December 16, 1S76; Samuel T., August 24, 1878; Catherine M., April 2X, 1S80; Jennie M., December 23, 1882; William W., November 4, 1883; Cornelius April 9, 1886; Christopher, November 5, 1888.

Wilson S. Spindler, an enterprising citizen of Milan township, was born in Delaware county, Ohio, October 23, 1843. He came to this township, in which he has been quite successful as a farmer, and ranks among the leading people, in April, 1864, and was accompanied by his parents. Mr. Spindler was married Januar}' i, 1866, to Augusta Hobbs, whose parents were natives of Erie count}^ Ohio. Her father, who is living, was born January 19, 1821, and her mother was born February 27, 1S29. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Spindler: Minnie R., May 23, 1867; Anna B., September 2, 1869, and George W., July 6, 1871. Minnie was married to R. Richart, July 11, 1886, and they have three children: Walter, born December 15, 1887; Sonora G., December 25, 1888, and an infant, June 20, 1889. Mr. Spindler cast his first presidential vote for Gen. McClellan.

Solomon Doty, a prominent citizen of Milan township, was born in Ohio, February 6, 1840, the oldest of a family of eight children. His father, born August 2, 1812, came to Ohio from the mountains near Wheeling, W. V^a., the place of his nativity, in 1816, and is still living in Ashland county, the comforts of his old age shared by the wife of his youth, who was born November 6, 1819. Both parents are enjoying excellent health and their families are noted for longevit)'. His grandfather Lambricht, was with Gen. Wayne in his memorable campaign. Mr. Dot}' was married December 31, 1865, to Sarah Gougwer, whose parents emigrated from Pennsylvania about 1S20. Mrs. Doty, the eldest of eleven children, was born April 12, 1841. Her father died at the age of sixtj^-eight, the mother at the age of sixt3'-six. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Doty: Emma J., January 27, 1867; Joseph E., April 15, 1869; Philip, June 5, 1874; Estella J., May 6, 1880. Emma was married to E. A. Brooks, August 13, 1885, and they have two children, Guy E. and Orlo P. Mr. Doty has cleared a valuable farm of 133 acres, which was paid for in money earned by teaching. He taught eight terms, mainly in succession, in his home township and two in Indiana. Mr. Doty served one term as constable in Ohio, township clerk for three terms and justice of the peace three years; being re-elected he resigned to remove to Indiana. Settling here November 12, 1875, ten months he was again elected justice and has served twelve years. These expressions of confidence witness his worth. Such men should be called higher to fill offices of trust in

A large portion of this township was entered on the government books as "condemned swamp lands," and an extensive marsh covering its northern portion, dissuaded home-seekers from settling in the region. This region was of the same character as the famous Black Swamp which extended far down toward Lake Erie on the south of the Maumee, and was the terror of pioneers. The soil was a deep muck, overlaying 3'ellow and blue clays. The tract appeared level but gently slopes to the lake. Upon this basin grew a forest of greater density and loftiness than was to be found elsewhere in the interior valley of North America. These gigantic trees standing side by side, enclosed a vast and gloomy solitude, which the sun seldom penetrated to evaporate the water which in places stood to the depth of- two or three feet. In this Jackson and Maumee township marsh, known as the "bears' nest," hunting was an exciting pastime, long after large game had vanished elsewhere. Bears were hunted here by persons still living, and deer were found up to a recent period. The first cabin in this township was built by George HoUinger, who improved some land and also spent much time in the chase. David, John and Samuel Neff, from Dayton, Ohio, entered large tracts in the southern part, and deadened the timber, but did not settle. In 1840 Jacob Mooney became a permanent resident on Flat Rock creek, and his brother Robert, who settled at the same time, remained for a few years. In 1S48 John Kline, Joshua Dickinson and Douglas Whittaker settled, but the two latter subsequently removed. Other permanent settlers were Meads in 1850, and Peter Boody in 1859. In the fifties a number of French immigrants arrived, among whom maj' be named such prominent residents as Florant Voirol, Francis Parnin and Constant Pernot. John Cline was another settler before the war of 1861. The population even at this time is small, a considerable part of ,the lands being owned by capitalists who are non-residents.

Thomas Jones was born in Maryland in 1814. He emigrated to Harrison count)-, Ohio, in early life, and there married Susannah Edwards, April 12, 1836, who was born in that county June 6, 1820. They came to Monroe township in 1841, and located on the farm where the widow still lives. Mr. Jones was a true pioneer, being the twelfth voter in that township. He, with his few neighbors, endured all the hardships incident to back-woods life. After rearing a large famity, of which seven survive him, he died May 5, 1S74. Jasper W. Jones, the oldest son living, was born on the old homestead, near Monroeville, April 10, 1852. He attended the district school during his youth, and at the age of nineteen entered the Fort Wayne Methodist Episcopal college, where he remained two 3-ears. He was industrious and soon acquired a practical education, and also became a good teacher, a profession which he pursued for several years. He was married May 30, 1876, to Catharine A. Malle}', who was born in Scotland, Jul}- 4, 185 1. Five children have blessed this union: Thomas Andrew, born June 24, 187S; Mary Alice, December 22, 1879; Edward Conway, January 6, 1882; Jasper Burt, December 21, 18S4, and George Lee, April 10, 1886, who died January 9, 1887. Mr. Jones has been honored by various positions of trust. In 1878 he was elected a justice of the peace of Monroe township; in 1883 he resigned and removed into Jackson township, where, in 1884, he was elected township trustee and re-elected in 1886. In the campaign of 188S he was elected county commissioner by a majority of nearly 4,000 over a strong competitor, and will assume the duties of the office in December, 18S9. Mr. Jones is sociable, confiding and truslworth}', in his nature, never forgetting a friend.

Constant Pernot was born Februarj- 6, 1824, in France. He came to Allen county, Ind., December 24, 1852, and lived in Jefferson township until 1859, when he removed to his present location, in Jackson township. His father, Jean Baptiste Pernot, was born in 1790, and died in 1878, and his mother, Frances, was born in 1800, and died March 14, 1835. Mr. Pernot was married February 9, 1847, in France, to Mary Munnier. Her falser, Thomas, and mother, Mary Huguenard, were of French descent. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Pernot: Mary, November 9, 1847: Francis, July 27, 1848; Robert, in 1850 (deceased); Marceha, born in November of 1851; Peter, born March i, 1858; Rosie, born in September of i860, and Juhe, born October 8, 1863. Rosie married Louis A. Ressuche in August, 1884, and has four children: Clara, Marie, Julia and Charles. Mary was married to Emile Jabas in 1873, and has two children: Emma, deceased in 1887, and Emile. Mr. Pernot served in the French army three months, but France being at peace and he being a married man, he was released. He has been assessor of Jackson township for twenty-four years. Mr. and Mrs. Pernot are members of the St. Louis Catholic church in Jefferson township.

Florant Voirol was born in Switzerland, October 16, 1839. He came with his parents to Fort Wayne, thence in June, 1852, to Jackson township, Allen county, where he now resides. His father, Louis Voirol, was born in 1805 and died in 1867. The mother, Celestine, was born in 181 3, and died February 10, 1883. Mr. Voirol was married to Miss Euphrasie Socie, Februar}' 11, 1873. Her father, Eugene, was born in 1823, and the mother, Frances, was born in 1S22. Both are living in Ohio, and came to this country from Switzerland about 1840. To Mr. and Mrs. Voirol have been born ten children: Mary L., December 11, 1873, deceased August 9, 1874; Amelia J., November 15, 1874; Charles A., December 23, 1875; Jule S., October 31, 1877; Eugene L., March 13, 1879; Edward, February 18, i88i;MaryC., December 20, 1882; Joseph F., October 9,

1S84; Frances E., November 29, 1885, deceased May 19, 1S86; Armin F., January 18, 1S87. Mr. Voirol is a prominent citizen and has always been active!}' engaged in farming. He and wife are members of the St. Louis Catholic church.

Among the energetic sons of la belle France, who have chosen this country for their home, is Francis Parnin. He was born in France, June 9, 1839, and with his parents, Gabriel, born in 181 1, and Virginia, in 1809, came to America in 1853, and settled in Jackson township. Mr. Parnin was married to Josephine Eugnard, June 21, 1864. Her father, Peter Cloud, born in Frances in 181 1, and her mother, Frances, born in France in 1814, came to America in 1850, and settled in St. Joseph township, where they remained until 1884, when they removed to Fort Wayne. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Parnin, are: Louis, born August 18, 1865; Victor, born December 4, 1866; August, born June 12, 1868; Francis J., born December 10, 1869; Charles, born May 2, 1871; Joseph, born October 8, 1872; Jule A. (deceased), born January 27, 1874; Armand, born January 31, 1876; Valerie, born December 28, 1877; Aristive, born February 12, 1879; Jule A. (deceased), born October 19, 1881; Jule A. (deceased), born November 12, 1884; Henry L., born August 20, 1885. Mr. Parnin was educated in the schools of France, and as a vocation has always followed farming. He and wife are members of the St. Louis Catholic church.

John Cline was born in Trumbull countj^Ohio, November 7, 1827. His father was born in Germany, and his mother in Ohio. She died September 17, 1887. His grandparents emigrated from Germany to Trumbull county, Ohio, and thence came to Jackson township, Allen county, in the fall of 1856. Mr. Cline was married to Adeline Housman, Februarv 5, 1855. Her parents came from Pennsylvania. The father died in "Trumbull count}', Ohio, in 1854, and the mother in 18S3. Her grandparents were from Germany. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. CHne: Mary, July 22, 1856; Sarah J., February 28, 1858, died November, 1862; Amanda, November 6, 1855, and John H., December 11, 1861, died 1862. Their daughter Mary was married to John Holsapple, and they have the following children : Roland, born April II, 1876; Blanche, January 9, 1S78, and Elmer, November 19, 1885. Amanda was married to Washington Blake in 1877. He was born October 16, i860. There have been born to them: Clarence A., September 5, 1878; Odus L., November 20, 1880; Addie F., October 21, 1S82; John v., March 26, 1884, and Norah G., March 9, 1S86. Mr. Cline enhsted in the Twenty-third Indiana Battery, James H. Myers captain, and served, lacking a few days, for three years. He has suffered greatly with his eyes from a powder explosion to which he was exposed during the service. He was in eight engagements among the most prominent of which were Kenesaw Mountain and the sieges of Atlanta and Nashville.

natives of Connecticut, and parents of Ohio; the father died in 1S55, but the mother survives at the age of eighty-two years. In 1861, Mr. Baldwin came to Jackson township and settled where he now resides. Mr. Baldwin has followed farming and the mercantile business, except during the period of the civil war, when he served gallantly in defense of his country. He enlisted in April, 1861, in the Nineteenth Ohio, and re-enlisted in February, 1S65, in the One Hundred and Fifty-second Indiana, serving in the Shenandoah valley, and being discharged September 4, 1865. He is a member of John Stabler post, G. A. R., and is prominent in his township, having been elected justice of the peace for three successive terms. Mr. Baldwin was married March 30, 1862, to Phoebe E. Ball, the first white child born in Jackson township. Her father was a native of Virginia and her mother of New Jerse}^

John McConnel, of Jackson township, was born in Hocking county, Ohio, September 8, 1839. ^^^^ parents, Robert McConnel, born October 20, 1798, and Mary Ann (Stout) McConnel, born January 17, . 1807, were natives of New Jersey. Mr. McConnel came to Indiana in 1848, settling in Wells county, and removing to Allen 'county in 1866, making his home where he now lives in Jackson township. July 18, 1867, he was married to Barbara Ann Townsend, by whom he had the following children: Eva, born May 9, 1868; Eliza A., October 5, 1869; Margaret J., February 16, 1871; William S., July 21, 1872, died September 2, 1873; John A., January 5, 1874; Caleb, August 28, 1875; Adema; Charles F., April 17,1882. Eva was married December 24,1888, to Thomas J. Savage. Mr. McConnel went through a long and honorable service in the national army, enlisting September 12, 1861, and serving as corporal of the Thirty-fourth Indiana, until Februar}^ 4, 1866. He participated in the campaigns along the Mississippi, at Vicksburg, Jackson, and in Louisiana, and near Brazos Island. He is a member of William H. Link post. No. 301, G. A. R., of Monroeville. He is a a popular and influential man in his township, and has twice been ele^ed trustee, the second time without opposition. He and wife are members of Pleasant Grove Methodist Episcopal church.

Mrs. Nancy Wyckoff, the widow of James H. Wj-ckoff, who died September 27, 1S77, has one of the handsomest quarter sections of land in Jackson township. She was born July 31, 1822, at Sa3-brook, Ashtabula county, Ohio, and was married to James H. Wyckoff, April 20,

1844, and remained there until May i, 1867, when they located in Jackson township. Her father, Philo Webster, was born in Delaware county, N. Y., June 5, 1795, and died September 19, 1850.' Her mother, whose maiden name was Deborah Haywood, was born in Clinton, Duchess county, N. Y., October 19, 1799, and died February 9, 1823. Grandmother Webster traced her ancestors back to the Pilgrim fathers. Both grandparents came from Connecticut, and the grandfather was a soldier of the revolution. To Mr. and Mrs. Wyckoff was born one child, Bethena, September 6, 1849. Mrs. Wyckoff is a member of the Christian church of Monroeville.

Clement Evard, a prosperous farmer of Jackson township, was born in Switzerland, March 2, 1S45. He' came with his parents to Allen county, Ind., and first settled in Milan township, coming to Jackson township November 8, 1873, where he now resides. His father, David, born October, 1806, died in America, March 29, 1883. The mother, Mary A., was born November 24, 1803. Mr. Evard married EHza J. Sapping, born November 8, 1868. Her father Jacob, was born in Pennsj'lvania, March 20, 181 7, and the mother Mary, was born in Allen c"ount3% Ind., in 1833 and died in Whitley county. To Mr. and Mrs. Evard have been born six children : Margaret, August 5, 1869; Minnie M., September 17, 1870; Celia, July 17, 1873; David M., January 17, 1S77: Ida G., July 25, 1880; Hattie E., February 16, 1886. Margaret married Benjamin Mooney November 22, 1888. Mr. Evard enhsted in Company' H, One Hundred and Forty-second Indiana volunteers, April 12, 1865, and was discharged July 14, 1865. He and wife ai-e mem- , bers of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Notable among the settlers of Jackson township who have caused the forests to disappear before their laborious efforts, is John Taylor, who was born December 15, 1839, in Auglaize county, Ohio. His father, William, and mother, Jane, her maiden name being Smith, are natives of Ohio. Mr. Taylor was married to Elizabeth Williams, April 16, 1865. Her parents were from Ohio; the father, John S., was born July 31, 1820, and the mother. May 20, 1825. Mr. Williams was a lawyer and practiced in the Auglaize count}- courts, and was at one time elected probate judge. To Mr. and Mrs. Taylor have been born six children, all hving: Edward, January 19, 1866; Charles, February 28, 1S68; John, November 17, 1869; Arthur, December 27, 1871; Ibb_v, November 2, 1875; David, April 14, 1883. Mr. Taylors father died when he was 3'oung, and being the eldest of the children, the burdens fell upon him. He has followed farming with the exception of three ye^-s and three months, when he was in the mihtar}' service of the United States, in the Seventy-first Ohio. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Atlanta and Nashville. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor are both consistent members of the Methodist church.

It is believed that the first permanent settlement within the limits of this township was made by Jared Whitney and his family. He came in May, 1833, and remained during the summer on the Maumee river, but in the fall took possession of a tract on section 7, which he afterward brought into cultivation. In the summer of the same year, Wilhelm and Henry Tuschknagen and families settled, and became industrious and esteemed citizens. But several years later, one of the sons, while at Fort Wayne, took a piece of cloth from a store and was arrested. One of the neighbors becoming bail, the culprit was released, and returned home, but a few days before the day of trial disappeared forever. The disgrace so affected the famil}- that they were broken in spirit, and the ostracism by the community affected their reason. It is related that the elder men were to be heard night after night breaking stone in the woods, for the purpose, they said, of building a temple. The last survivor was a mental wreck, was known as the "Prophet," and fancied he was divinely directed in every action. During 1S33 there also came Christian Wolf, Joseph Grunauer, Mr. Blackmore, a transient resident, William Henderson, Simon Rogers. The latter sold his clearing to Eben Burgess, who took possession in 1834. On this farm the first frame house was erected by one Blakel}^ and was used as a barn by Mr. Burgess, who erected the first brick house in 1S37. WilHam Henderson was married in March, 1835, to EHzabeth Rogers, the first ceremonj' of the kind in the township. In 1835 the first death occurred, that of a child of Mr. Blackmore. In 1834 ^ settlement was made by Aretas Powers, who was born in New York in 1800. He brought with him his wife, Sarah Stilson, to whom he was married in 1828, and their children afterward increased in number to eleven. James Post came also in 1834, but \yas not a permanent settler. A sad event of that period was the loss of a little son of the latter. He strayed into the woods, and his bod}- was found by a party of neighbors many days later in Seven Mile creek. Mr. Powers was the first justice of the peace elected in 1840. In 1835 or 1S36, Henry Castleman setUed near the center of the township. They were famous hunters, and were known to bring at one load to Fort Wayne, on a home-made sled, forty saddles of venison. Henry Castleman is said to have killed 1,678 deer and twenty-three bears. A celebrated event of the early time was the clearing up the Sugar ridge or Vanwert road. On New Year's eve, 1837, about twenty residents went to a point near New Haven, provided with cooking utensils as well as axes, and began the work. The road had been merely a foot path before, but this winter's campaign made it a well-defined highway.

Alanson Whitne}' opened the first store in 1S50, his stock being a barrel of whiskey and a keg of tobacco, but this was soon enlarged and he did a prosperous business. When the Vanwert road was opened Henry Castleman opened a tavern, and prospered until the day of railroad communication. During this period there was a postoffice on the road, kept by Socrates Bacon subsequent to 1850. The first saw-mill was built by Green & Burgess, near the center of the township, and subsequently a run of buhrs was put in, and these two mills were operated for many 3'ears. In May, 1851, the village of Besancon was platted by Peter F. Beugnot.

The quiet little village of Maples had its origin in the lumbering business. Here Lewis S. Maples came in 1852 from western Ohio, to take charge of an engine for a saw-mill. August 12, 1853, the town plat was made by O. Bird and J. Bowser, and Mr. Maples made an addition in 1873. Saw-milling, stave manufacture, and the hke have been the leading industries. In 1880 the population was 139. Stores

Lewis S. Maples, for whom the village was named, was born in Greene county, Penn., September 20, 1825. He engaged in the manufacture of staves and heading in 1872, but since 1876 has been farming. He was married to Deborah Ritter in 1S53, and the}' have six children living.

Among the earliest settlers in Jefferson township was Joseph Gronauer, a native of Germany who immigrated in about 1828, and first settled in Virgmia. In 1832, putting all his possessions in a one-horse wagon, he set out for Indiana, and established a new home on the Maumee, in the northwest part of Jefferson township. The government had not then surveyed the land, and he was allowed when the lands were opened to settlers, $300 for the improvements he had made. He died November 16, 1872. His wife was a native of Germany, who came to this country in 1834, and she is still living, having made her home on the old homestead for fort}--one years. She well remembers the old times, when wolves and Indians were numerous, and the great event when the last Indians were taken west from Logansport. Their son, George F. Gronauer, was born April 28, 185 1, in Jefferson township, and is one of the leading citizens. He was married October 5, 1875, to Caroline Muhlfeith, whose parents came from Germany about 1840. The mother died September 19, 1883, but the father is still hving. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gronauer: Norah, July 12, 1876; Clara, June 22, 1879; Lizzie, March i, 1882; JuHen, September 19, 18S4, and an infant March 20, 1889. The remains of the old road and bridges built by Anthony Wayne are to be seen on Mr. Gronauer's farm, also many relics of his expedition have been found.

Edward Harper was born in Jefferson township, March 26, 1856. His grandfather, John Harper, died aged eighty-four. The dates of birth and decease of his grandmother, Elizabeth Harper, are unknown. His grandfather, John Hunter, on his mother's side, died aged eightyfour, and his grandmother, Rebecca McMullin, died at the age of ninetytwo years. Edward's father, William Harper, was born in Tyrone count}^ Ireland, March 10, 1810. He emigrated to this country at the age of twenty-one years, and finall}^ settled in Jefferson township, in 1836. He married Mary Hunter, who was born in Erie county, Penn., December 25, 1812, and they had eight sons and four daughters. Edward's childhood, youth and manhood were passed in Jefferson township. From his early youth he seemed not to care for toys, but greatly enjoyed a hammer and a few nails. The advantages of his district school were for him of short duration. Four of his brothers having entered the army, the responsibilities of home duties rested upon him. He first devoted his attention to farming in which he was successful, but his youthful proclivities now began to manifest themselves so that by his ingenuity and close observation, he soon became an excellent framer. He possesses wisdom and tact in financial matters, and takes good care of his own interests, being a wise manager in business, yet he is a generous and sympathetic man, and has a care for others. He: possesses a force of character that has made him successful in life. He was married to Martha A. Shull, January i, 18S3, and has a son, Emmet E. Harper. In 1884 he was nominated by the republican party for trustee, but was defeated. In 18S6, he was again nominated, was elected and served a term of two years. In 1888 he was re-elected, in spite of an adverse majority of eighty on the general ticket. As trustee he has shown much executive ability, wisdom and discretion in the selection of teachers, and economy in building. He has raised the average of attendance from thirty-one to thirty-eight per cent., and has proved himself a faithful pubHc servant.

John Tillman, one of the early settlers of Allen county, was born in Philadelphia county, Penn., May 10, 1812. His father, John Tillman, a native of Scotland, in an earl}^ day emigrated to Pennsylvania where he wedded Catherine Sook, who was born in Germany, emigrating to Pennsylvania with her parents. To them were born two sons and two daughters. Their son John was reared on a farm, and at the age of .twenty-three years, left his native state and settled in Ohio. In 1838, he went to St. Louis, Mo., and remained eight months, and in 1840 came to Allen county, settling on section 26, of Jefferson township, which has been his residence. In 1841 he wedded Sarah, daughter of Henry and Rachel (Saltzman) Castleman. She was born in Starke county, Ohio, September 12, 1819. They have four children: Delilah, David, John L. and Margaret. A fifth child was born, but died at the age of nine years. Mr. Tillman bought of the government a tract of land in Jefferson, and settled in the dense forest. He has done much toward the improvement of the county. He began life a poor man, and now owns a well improved farm of 120 acres. He has now for fortj'-nine years been identified as a citizen of Allen county and has observed the growth of its civilization from almost its inception. He and wife are members of the German Baptist church and enjoy the esteem of a wide acquaintance. Mrs. Tillman came to this county in 1832 with her parents, who settled in Jefferson township. The father was born in Pennsylvania and the mother in Ohio, and were of German lineage. They d'.ed in Allen county after rearing thirteen children, of whom twelve reached maturity. John L. Tillman was born in Jefferson township, April 27, 1852, was reared and educated on a farm and followed farming till 1886, when he removed to Monroeville and went into business. He was married November 25, 1880, to Lucinda Burgart, a native of Allen county, and they have one child: Herman.

Mrs. Elmira Whitney, one of the early settlers, was born in New York, May 11, 1822, and came to Jefferson township in 1843. Her recollection runs back to the time when the Miami Indians were numerous; when the wolf was a frequent visitor, and the bear had not yet disappeared. There were then no paths and but three houses between their home and New Haven. Her parents came to Adams township from New York. The father, Henry Cool, was born March

31, 1794, and died March, 1S47. The mother, Catherine, was born September 23, 1791, and died about 1838. The subject of this mention was married to Alanson Whitney, January 16, 1842. He was born in INew York, Januar}^ 13, 1817, and died August 26, 1882. He was a member of the I. O. O. F. lodge of New Haven. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Whitney: EHza, July 22, 1844, died November 21, 1864; Jerry M., April 8, 1846, died September 9, 1850; James E., May 22, 1847; Samantha, Januar}^ 11, 1849, died January 23, 1886; Lenora, June 22, 1851; WilUam J., January 21, 1854; Alanson J., December 30, 1855, died July 24, 1856; Carrie C, December II, 1857, died October 12, 1S70; Sarah, August i, i860; Abbie A., March 18, 1863. Eliza was married to David Bowers, May 3, 1864; Semantha was married to Reuben B. Hoops, April 7, 1870; Lenora was married to Adam Crawford, January 4, 1874, '^"d ^'^^ three children: Carrie, Marion and Gertie; James was married. to May C. Wilson in 1874, and has two children, Elmira and Edward. William was married to Amanda M. Snider, October 15, 1878, and has had five children: Ahce I., Herschell A. (deceased), Myrtle, Charles Mc. and Lottie Elmira.

Francis Roussey is an early settler of Jefferson township, born July 28, 1828, in France. He came his parents to America in 1847, and settled where he now resides. His father, Peter Roussey, was born in 1793, and died in 1853; the mother, Frances, and the father were of French nativity. Mr. Roussey was married in August, 1S47, to Mary Girardeaux; she died in 1848. He was married in 1850 to Justine Bride, and to them was given one son, Frank, born April 28, 1858. Four years after the decease of his second wife, Mr. Rousse}' married Rose Bride. To them were born: John, September 4, 1862; Louise, March 25, 1864; Justine, February 25, 1866; Rose, March 29, 1879. Mr. Roussey's school advant<iges were of the most primitive character. When he came to the county the sight of deer, wolf and bear was a common one. He and wife are members of the St. Louis Catholic church, and are worthy and popular people.

Adolphe Reuille, who was born in France in 1838, came with hisparents to Jefferson township in 1852. His father went to France in 1872 and died there, and the mother died in Monroeville in 1884. Mr. Reuille was married May 13, 1863, to Miss Mar_v Cramer, whose parents came from Germany about 1839, first settled in Ohio, and then removed to Jackson township, Ind. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Reuille: Fannie, April 24, 1S64; Caroline, May 6, 1866; John, August 18, 1868, deceased October 19, 1870; Marj-, December 17, 1872; Ernest, December, 1874; Eh, June 6, 1876; Alice, November 19, 1878; Frank, May 6, 1S80. Fannie was married to John Ladig, April 10, 1888. Mr. Reuille and wife experienced much of the hardships of pioneer days, and can well remember when there were no roads and when the wolves howled around their door. They are both members of the St. Louis Cathohc church of Jefferson township, and are valued and estimable citizens.

August Pepe, one of the successful and progressive farmers of Jefferson township, was born in France, April 19, 1S39. ^^ came with his parents to Fort Wayne in 1853, and removed to Jelfferson township, in 1S75. His father, Mark Pepe, was born July 5, 1805, and the mother, Threacce, October 5, 1805. Mr. Pepe was married to Miss Sarah Grosjean, December 5, 1861. She was born in Allen county, Ind., June I, 1844. Her father, Frank Grosjean, was born in February, 1809, and died January 6, 1S55; the mother, Johanna B., was born October 2, 181S. , They came from France in an early day. To Mr. and Mrs. Pepe have been born nine children: Frank, October 6, 1862; Jule, July 5, 1864; Adolph, April 5, 1866, died November, 1885; Mary, December 28, 1868; Edward, April, 1S70, died August, 1877; Clara, August 15, 1872 (deceased); Amiel, October 11, 1.S75; Hattie, November 6, 1877; Clara, July 10, 1882; Lizzie, November 12, 1888. Frank was married to Martie Girardeaux in May, 1SS5. Mary was married to George Campbell in 1887. Mr. Pepe has always followed farming. He and his parents came to this country, and settled on 300 acres in Washington township, when bear, wolf and deer were plentiful. Mr. and Mrs. Pepe are members of the St. Louis Catholic church.

John B. Dupeyron, a prominent citizen of Jefferson township, was born in France, November 16, 1822. .Emigrating to America in 1841, he reached New Orleans on his nineteenth birthday, and at that city remained until 185 1, then he removed to Shelby county, Ohio. The latter was his home until 1857, when he removed to Jefferson township, settling where he now lives, January 2, 1857, upon an eighty-acre tract of land. While at New Orleans he was married, June 8, 1849, to Celestine Sansotte, and their onl}- son, Raymond, was born at that city, January 15, 1S50. Mr. and Mrs. Dupeyron are members of St. Louis Catholic church, and as worth}- people are esteemed by all.

This extreme southeastern township was occupied by the splendid forests which have given it fame, without any encroachment upon their growth, until the fall of 1839, when William and James Black and Joseph Rabbit coming from Carroll count}', Ohio, began a permanent settlement on section 32. They succeeded in developing farms and lived there for several years. One Kimsey "squatted" upon a claim in the northwest in the same season, but after his death, which followed soon, his stakes were taken up. Other comers in the same }'ear were Lawrence Umbaugh and his son-in-law, Jacob Drake, on section 32, and Peter Schlemmer, on section 21. During the same season Noah Clem, a Virginian, purchased land on section 33, and by the help of his neighbors built a cabin which received his family in the following spring. He was a settler for hfe and a prominent man. In 1840 came Moses Ratledge and his sons William and Moses, Elijah Reddinghouse and John Friedline. The latter, by entry and purchase, accumulated 400 acres. Hugh

Anderson and Samuel Clem came in 1841 early, and were enterprising citizens. In the same year John Stephenson settled on section 4, and James Savage and Peter Barnhart near the site of Monroeville. After this date immigration was much more rapid. In April, 1841, at the first township election held at William Ratledge's home, there were thirteen voters, and one of these, Peter Schlemmer, was challenged on the ground of naturalization. His vote was accepted, however, on the proof he made, and it decided a tie between Noah Clem and William Black, opposing candidates for justice, in favor of the former. The next year Squire Clem exercised his function in joining the daughter of Asa Dillon to Eli Bauserman in marriage. In 1843 the first death in the settlement occurred, that of the wife of Peter Schlemmer. She was buried on his farm, and in same spot several others of the old families were laid to rest. The early settlers were compelled to take their grain to Wines' mill, on the Maumee, or Rudisill's, on the St. Joseph, the jom-ney often taking six or seven days, and when Hugh Anderson, in 1844, put in operation a horse-mill, although it was of limited capacity, it was gratefully welcomed and well patronized until Muldoon's mill was estabhshed on the St. Mary's. In Februar}-, 1848, John Burger laid out the village of East Liberty, on section 29, and it promised to become prosperous. Martin Kemp established a store peculiar to the period, the principal stock being liquor, but leaving soon afterward. Judge Reynolds and James Patterson opened a general store, which was quite successful, and continued so under their successors, David Studebaker and Peter Whipky. Here, in 185 1, a postofiice was established, but subsequently removed during the life of John Friedline to his farm. Upon the rise of Monroeville, East Liberty soon declined.

MonroevUIe. - This enterprising town has justified the expectations of its founders, Jacob and John Barnhart. They established the town in December, 1851, and though for a number of years only a mail station on the Pittsburgh road, it suddenly awakened to life and activity in the " flush " times of the war and the "few years subsequent, and gained a start in prosperit}' which it has not retrograded from, being now an important trade center. Additions were made to the original plat by McGovern in 1865, by Samuel Pool in 1S65, and hy Alpheus Swift in 1866. Immediately following the war there was a remarkable growth in manufacturing. In 1864 John W. Rout embarked in the manufacture of oil barrel staves and heading, and in 1865 George 'Webster and James Weiler v\'ere associated with him. They erected a building 40 by 60 feet, and added dressed lumber to their products. Mr. Rout retired from the business three years later and was engaged in manufacturing independently until 1872, when he removed to Decatur. Webster & Weiler increased their plant, and established a branch at Benton, Ohio, operating both factories until 1877. The manufacture of staves was also engaged in, in 1865, by Messrs. Hemphill & Ashworth, with a complete plant and a branch factory at Decatur. Mr. Ashworth dying in 1866, the business was continued by the other partner, who resided in

Pennsylvania, and was represented bj- M. E. Argo. A large business was done, the shipments averaging one car load per day, and twentyfive men being employed. Upon the death of Mr. Hemphill and his widow two 3'ears later, the business was suspended in 1S79. Rall3'a & Robertson established a factory in the same line in 1865, and did an extensive business until 1874. In the same year, the Monroeville flouringmill was established by C. H. Schick. It has subsequently passed through the hands of Alpheus Swift & Co., J. Dague & Bros., with whom Daniel Shank was for several years associated. D. S. Redelsheimer became the owner, and while in his possession, the mill burned in May, 1889. In 1867 the Empire stave company was formed at Monroeville with P. S. O'Rourke president, and Alexander Williamson, secretary and treasurer. Jacob Sweeny was appointed superintendent and supervised the construction of one of the most complete stave factories in Indiana. This was burned down in 1875, while owned by T. S. Heller and E. D. Dague. They had at Decatur a similar factory, and at both towns large general stores, and at Dixon a station for the purchase of timber. In July, 1878, D. S. Redelsheimer & Co. purchased the stave factory of J. B. Worden & Co., which was estabUshed by A. F. Beugnot and Daniel Monahan in 1875. This is still operated by Mr. Redelsheimer. A pump factor}^ was established in 1877 by T. A. Long, which did business for several years, and the manufacture of carriages and wagons was begun by Sears & Scherer in 1878. This branch of manufacture has since been discontinued.

The prominent business men of the town are : Drj- goods, drugs, etc., D. S. Redelsheimer; general store, Corbaley & Freese; groceries, C. J. Breman, J. W. Edwards, Joseph Lewis; drugs, H. A. Shank; hardware, J. B. Niezer, J. Reuille; furniture, M. Strass, F. Edwards; furnishing goods, E. Finan; jewelry, M. B. Knouse; photographers, Engle & Baster; harness shop, P. Krick; meat markets, Bryant & Meeks, John Casselman; millinery, Angie Somers; hotels. Central house, Charles East-' gate; Railroad house, Mrs. E. Baker; agricultural implements, J. B. Niezer, A. S. Robinson ; creamery and fine stock, Martin E. Argo; shoe dealer, C. A. Nill; stock buyers, Krick & Hayes, Tillman & Casselman; saw- and planing-mills, D. C. Purman, Webster & Sons; tile and brick yard, Brandeberr}' & Myers, William Wright.

The present town ofiicers are: Board of trustees, W. A. Waterman, J. W. Edwards, George Doctor, Henry Ehling, Jacob Colyer; Clerk, C. C. Myers; treasurer, H. A. Shank; marshal, John Rose; justices, John Sheehan, J. D. Alligear, H. E. Drake; notary publics, John Corbaley, C. C. Myers, J. P. Nash. H. Stewart is the present postmaster. The leading and most prosperous industry, of which the town may well be proud, is the Monroeville elevator, built in 1888, by J. B. Niezer. This is in dimensions, 40x76 feet, and its capacity is 20,000 bushels. The structure cost $5,500. There has latel}- been added a feed-mill and set of buhrs. The annual business of this important establishment is $65,000.

The medical profession has been represented at Monroeville since an early day, some of the practitioners having arisen to eminence. Since 1880, the doctors have been: C. A. Leiter, W. A. Connelh', A. Engle, Wilder, and S. E. Mentzer. The first, now deceased, was a graduate of the universit}- of Pennsylvania, and was a prominent physician. He was a son of ex-congressman Leiter, of Clinton, Ohio. The latter two named are now the onl}^ practitioners and both are able.

The legal fraternity at Monroeville is now represented by E. W. Meeks and Chester Holder. The former acts as assistant prosecuting attorne}', and is a native of the vicinity.

In 1S62 Monroeville lodge, No. 293, A. F. and A. M., was organized December 30, with the following charter members: Jabez Shaffer, James Weiler, Peter Eckley, J. G. Mariotte, M. E. Argo, J. W. Miller, William B. Rabbit, S. T. Rice, John Shaffer, A. Engle, J. L. Robinson, Jacob Cassiday and J. L. Younker. The lodge is still prosperous.

The I. O. O. F. lodge, known as Monroeville, No. 283, was chartered May 22, 1867, with five members: G. C. Nill, A. F. Brown, E. W. Erick, J. W. Rout and A. A. Baker. The growth was slow until 1S72, when the hall was destroyed by fire. After moving to new quarters the lodge increased in numbers and wealth, the membership now being fift3'-seven in good standing, and the net assets about $1,800. The following are past grands: M. Strass, J. R. Parker, M. B. Knouse, Henrv Smith, J. W. Meeks, Henry Deiwert, V. L. Shaffer, W. A. WateVman, G. C. Hunsicker, C. C. Myers, J. A. Corbaley, J. E. Pillars, J. P. Nash, J. I. Shulte, J. T. Baker and L. E. Wright.

The Monroeville Breeze, owned and managed by J. D. Alligear, is one of the most flourishing village newspapers in Northern Indiana. Originally known as the Democrat, it was purchased by the present management January i, 1884, from Frank P. Hardest}-, and made independent in politics. It has had a steady growth in subscription from that time from 200 to 700, and has a good job patronage. Thomas J. Foster and Thomas Stephens were former owners.

David S. Redelsheimer, a prominent citizen and merchant of Monroeville, Ind., was born in Germany, May 22, 1836, and is a son of Sigmund and Lena Redelsheimer. He was reared and educated in his native country, receiving a fair German education, and in 1850 came to America and joined his parents at Fort Wayne, they having settled in that city in 1839. After coming to Fort Wayne he attended EngHsh schools for two years, and subsequentl}' learned the printer's trade at which he was engaged onty a short time. In 1861 he enlisted in the Fifteenth Ohio regiment, and was in the volunteer service for about four months. Then he returned to Fort Wayne and engaged with his father in the wholesale grocerj^ business, in which he remained until 1872. He continued in business at Fort Wayne until 1878, and then came to Monroeville and bought the stave factor}' that had been established here, and at present owns the only manufactory of the kind at Monroeville. He is also one of the firm of D. S. Redelsheimer & Co., manufacturers of overalls, at Fort Wayne. Soon after locating in Monroeville, Mr. Redelsheimer purchased the drug store of J. B. Worden, and subsequently added other lines of merchandise until he now carries a full stock of general merchandise, perhaps the most nearly complete assortment of any merchant in the county. He is a very successful merchant and does an annual business of about $50,000 at his store. December 22, 1862, Mr. Redelslieimer was married to Charlotte Strass, a native of Bohemia, and they have an interesting family. Mr. Redelsheimer is a staunch republican in politics, and made a very creditable canvass in 1876 as the republican candidate for count}- treasurer. He is not a member of any church, but was reared in the Jewish faith. He is one of the progressive citizens of the count}'; is a member of the council, F. & A. M., and the I. O. O. F., at Fort Wayne, and the G. A. R., at Monroeville.

Franklin Freese, a prosperous merchant of Monroeville, was born in Summit county, Ohio, September 8, 1840. His parents, Peter and Anna (Faust) Freese, were born in Lancaster county, Penn., and were there married. Of their eight sons and one daughter, all except one reached maturity. Soon after the parents' marriage, they removed from Pennsylvania,, and located in Summit county, Ohio, and in 1S46 they removed to Indiana, settling in Marshall county, where the mother died in 1856. The father married a second wife and by her had one son and a daughter. In 1871 he died in Marshall county. Franklin Freese was born and reared on a farm, receiving a common school education. At the outbreak of the civil war, he enlisted April 24, 1861, but his company was not accepted. Subsequently he re-enlisted in Company E, Seventeenth Indiana volunteer infantr}', and was mustered into United States service in June, 1861, and in the same company served until June, 1864, when he was mustered out, but immediately went into the quartermaster service at Nashville, Tenn., and here remained until March, 1866. He was one of those gallant soldiers who composed Col. John T. Wilder's lightning brigade. Maj. J. J. Wiler was formerly captain of Mr. Freese's company. Among some of the important engagements in which Mr. Freese took a part were Greenbrier, W. Va., Shiloh, Tenn., Stone River, Chickamauga, and Lookout Mountain. In 1867 he joined the G. A. R. at Plymouth, Ind., and at present is a member of William H. Link post, No. 301, at Monroeville, of which he was the main organizer. In 1866 Mr. Freese returned to Marshall county, and February 8, 1867, was married to Miss Matilda Gilbert, a native of Pennsylvania. She died in 1871, leaving two children: Walter S. and Luella O. In 1874 Stevenson count}% 111., Mr. Freese was married to Eliza Mishler, by whom he had the following children: Hattie, Freddie, Ida, Frankie, Fannie, and Bessie. In 1879 Mr. Freese formed a partnership with J. A. Corbaley, at Monroeville and Maples, and embarked in general merchandise. The store at Maples has been discontinued, and at present the firm is doing at Monroeville an annual business of about $35,000. Mr. Freese is a republican in politics, and is a member of lodge No. 283, I. O. O. F., of Monroeville.

Jules H. Reuille was born in France, November 14, 1S46, and is a son of John Claude and Margaret (Predin) Reuille. The parents were of French birth, were married in France, and their union blessed by eight children, of ^^'hom the following reached maturity: Adolphe, Jules H., Fannie and Melanie. John Claude Reuille visited America in 1851, decided upon bringing his family to the United States, and accordingl}' returned to France, and in 1S53, brought his family to Indiana and settled in Jefferson township, Allen county. In 1866, the father returned to France on a business trip, and after returning to this country his health failed him, as did the health of his wife and son, Jules H. These three returned to France in 1873, purposing to plant their home again in their native country. Their hope of health was blasted by the death of the father within sixty days after reaching France. In the fall of 1874 the mother and Jules H. departed for America. On reaching here they located in Monroeville, Ind., and ten years later the mother was called away in death. In 1886, one year after the death of his mother, Jules H. wedded Lena Ehling, and they have two children: John C. H. and Louisa Eve. Mr. Reuille is a member of the Roman Catholic church. He is engaged in the hardware business in Monroeville, where he resides and enjoys the esteem of many friends.

John Hayes, of Monroeville, was born in Limerick count}', Ireland, October 23, 1825. His parents, James and Elizabeth (Downe\') Hayes, w-ere natives of Limerick county, and their deaths occurred in their native country-. Of their ten children, seven reached maturity. John Hayes, the second, was born and reared on the farm, and in the country schools of Ireland received his education. At the age of twentj'-one years he secured the position of constable in Ireland, and remained in the service nearly four years. In April, 1851, he set sail at Queenstown, Ireland, and on the 28th of May landed at New York. Previously, August 15, 1850, he was married to Ann Cronen, who was born in the county of Kerry, Februarj- 22, 1830, one of six children of Daniel and Catherine (McElstrem) Cronen. Their marriage has been blessed by ten children, of whom James J., Daniel M., Michael L., Henry F., Catherine E., John J. and Anna, reached maturit3^ Immediately after reaching New York, Mr. Hayes settled at Reading, Hamilton county, Ohio, where he remained till 1854, when he came to Fort Wayne. He secured a position with the Pennsylvania Railway compan}-, in whose employ he remained for the following twenty years and eight months. In April, 1S74, ^^'^^ directors of the Indiana State Prison at Michigan Cit}' appointed him a prison guard, and he was engaged there two 3'ears, the last year serving as hospital steward. Since i860 his home has been at Monroeville. He began in life a poor man, but by energy and integrity has gained a high station in life. He and family are members of the Roman Catholic church.

Henr}' F. Hayes, son of the above, was born in Fort Wayne, August 31, 1858. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. At the age of seventeen he went into the telegraph office at

Annals Of The 1 Ow

Monroeville, and was appointed operator in 1S76, and in 1S78 was appointed station agent. He is also the agent for the Adams Express compan}-. In April, 18S3, he was united in marriage with Olive, daughter of John D. and Mary (Doren) Stephenson. Mrs. Hayes is a native of this township. They have two children: Edward L. and Henrj- F. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes are members of the Catholic church of Monroeville.

David Martin was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, Jul}- 29, 1S26. The father, John, was born in Little York county, Penn., of Irish pai-- ents, who immigrated in an early day. He married Margaret Messahcup, a native of Maryland, of German descent, and the}' had four sons and four daughters, among whom was David. The father had previously been married to Susa Ourie, by whom he had nine children. In an early da}- the parents removed from Pennsylvania to Muskingum county, Ohio, and subsequently became pioneers of Licking county, Ohio. The father died before David left home, but the mother lived to be nearly one hundred years old, and died in Licking county. David, after reaching his majority, attended school, paying his expenses with his own earnings by farm labor at $8 per month, half of which he had to take in merchandise. In the fall of 185 1 he came to Van Wert county, where he resided for the following six years, teaching school each winter and working on a farm in summer. He settled on land in Monroe township, in the fall of 1858. January 29, 1853, he was married to Melinda, daughter of Samuel Clem, an early settler of Allen county. She was born in Champaign county, Ohio. By her marriage she has become the mother of thirteen children. Mr. Martin is now a prosperous and representative farmer. He is a zealous worker in the Methodist church, and for several years has acted as a preacher of the gospel, having been licensed by the Ohio Methodist Episcopal conference in 1883. He is a man of great force of character, and wields a happy influence over all who know him. A. L. Martin, a son of the above, was born in Ohio, August 9, 1858. In 1879 ^^ wedded Louisa Jane, daughter of Nathan and Martha Parker, of Allen county. Immediately after his marriage Mr. Martin settled on a farm in Monroe township. He followed farming till in 1884, when he took charge of the Indiana house, in Monroeville. This he managed for two years, and then, in 1886, went into the livery business. He owns and operates in Monroeville Martin's livery, feed and sale stable, and is an enterprising young business man. His children are: Frankhn, David and Melinda Ellen. In politics Mr. Martin is a republican.

David Gibson, trustee of Monroe township, was born in Lycoming county, Penn., in March, 1S39. ^'^ father, David Gibson, was a native of the Keystone state, and his mother, whose maiden name was Mary Richard, was born in Maryland. Both were born in the year 181 1, and they died in Allen county, the mother in 1870 and the father in 1855. To them eleven children were born, of whom five are living. Of the survivors the third born is David Gibson. He was reared on the farm of his parents in his native state, and there gained a good common school education. In 1S63 he came to Allen count}- and during his tirst year here worked by the month on the farm of Andrew Growmann. In 1S64 he began farming for himself, purchasing the land on which he has for twenty years made his home. He has a productive farm of seventy acres, which is well improved. Mr. Gibson is influential in township affairs and prominent as a democrat, and being generall}' recognized to be an able and upright man, he was in 1SS8 intrusted by the people with the responsibilities of the office of trustee of Monroe township, a trust which he is ably and conscientiously discharging. Mr. Gibson was married in February, 1865, to Lucy Farrell, who was born in Ohio, in 1S33, and they have four children: Agnes and Edward (twins), Henrj- and Helena. He and wife are members of the Catholic church.

Morris Strass w^as born in Austria, May 29, 1S38. His parents J. L. and Theresa (Pepperkorn) Strass, had eight sons and one daughter. Four sons became emigrants to America, the first being Morris. He came to the United States in 1856, and settled at Alban}-, N. Y. Here he remained until August 12, 1862, when he enlisted as a private in Company G, One Hundred and Twenty-eighth New York volunteer infantry. He was transferred with his company from Louisiana, after the Red River campaign, to the vallej- of the Shenandoah, under Gen. Sheridan. Subsequently he joined Gen. Sherman in the march to the sea. July 12, 1865, at Savannah, Ga., he was, as a sergeant, discharged by reason of the close of the war. Mr. Strass returned to Albanj-, but in 1865 removed to Monroeville, where he has since resided, mainh" engaged in general merchandise. He has, however, occasional^ changed his lines of merchandise, and at present he is dealing in, and manufacturing, furniture, and acting as undertaker. In business he has accomplished more than ordinary success, being now prosperous and having an annual trade of about $6,000. In 1867 he was married to Anna Strass, a native of Austria, and they have had four children, of whom three are living: Carrie, Lena and JuHus. Mr. Strass is one of the prominent citizens of the county. He was appointed postmaster for Monroeville in 1866, and held the office b}- reappointments until in 1885. In pofitics he is a staunch republican. He is a member of the William H. Link post, No. 301, G. A. R., at Monroeville; is a Mason of Monroeville lodge, No. 293; and is a past master of Monroeville lodge, No. 283, I. O. O. F.

John A. Corbaley, a merchant at Monroeville, was born at Phmouth, Ind., Jul}- 19, 1849, and is a son of Richard and Jane (Croco) Corbaley. The father was born in Marion county, Ind., x\ugust 7, 1820, a son of Jeremiah Corbaley, a native of Maryland, of Irish descent, who being a farmer by occupation, became a pioneer settler within the present limits of Indianapolis, cutting his way through forests to the place of settlement. He occupied the grounds on which stands the Indiana state capitol, and there made maple sugar. His son Richard was the first white child born in Marion county. He was reared and educated on a farm, and in an early day settled in Marshall county, w-here he took up farm- ing. Subsequently, he was elected county clerk of Marshall county, and served two terms. In early life he became a convert to the belief of the Church of God, and in 1879 he and wife emigrated with their famil}^ to California, where he engaged in preaching for his church, and at present he and wife reside in Washington territor3\ Of his six children, John A. is the eldest. He remained under the parental roof till twenty years old. In early life he taught in the public schools, and then went to California, where he worked in divers callings for seven 3'ears. In 1872 he returned to Plj'mouth, Ind., and wedded Lou Miller, daughter of S. W. and Elizabeth Miller. Their children are: Clarence, Earl and Roy. In 187S, Mr. Corbaley returned from California to Indiana, and in 1879 formed a partnership with Franklin Freese, and since has been engaged in general merchandise, living for a time at Maples, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Corbaley hold a membership in the Church of God, at Plymouth, Ind. He is a member of I. O. O. F. lodge, No. 282. In politics he is a republican. He is a member of the school board in Monroeville. He made a close race for township trustee, cutting the adverse majority of 175 to 22.

William N. Parker, a pioneer of Allen county, was born in Onondaga county, N. Y., son of an American-born citizen, of English lineage. He was reared on a farm, and about 1838 came west, settling in Allen county. In early life he taught school and practiced law, and subsequently settled on a farm in Marion township. He was one of more than ordinaiy education among the pioneers, and became a well respected man. He was regarded as a man of keen and shrewd judgment, honesty and integrity'. He was married in 1838, in i\llen county, to Sarah Yager, a native of Pennsylvania, her parents being born in Germany. She died in Fort Wayne, and her husband died in Allen county in 1887. Their onl}' child, John Russell Parker, was reared on a farm. ,When eighteen years old he secured a position with the P., F. W. & C, Ry. Co., and since 1857 he has been in the emplo}' of this company, excepting, perhaps, two years. In 1861, April 19, he enlisted as a private in Company E, Ninth Indiana volunteer infantry, and July 31, 1861, was discharged by reason of the expiration of time of service. He participated in three engagements: Phillippi, Laurel Hill, W. Va., and near Laurel Hill. After his discharge at Indianapolis he returned to Fort Wa3'ne, and in 1862 he was united in marriage with Sophia, daughter of John and Margaret (Young) Hite. She was born near Youngstown, Ohio, and in 1S54 came to Allen county with her parents, who were natives of Germany. To this marriage have been born four children: Lydia E., Alice, Margaret and Sophia. At present Mr. Parker is the pumper for the railway company at Monroeville, where he has resided since 1S73. He is a member of the I. O. O. F, Monroeville lodge. No. 283, William H. Link post. No. 321, G. A. R. of Monroeville, and of the Methodist Episcopal church. In early life he was thrown on his own resources, but has been successful and has reared and educated a family of four children, one of whom, Alice, is a teacher in the Monroeville schools.

Edward Fiiian, a prosperous citizen of Monroeville, was born in Ireland in 1S45. His parents, John and Ellen (Mourn ) Finan, were born and reared in Ireland, where they were married. Of their se\en sons and one daughter, all are living but two. The parents with their family, emigrated to America in 1847, for a while lived in Canada, but subsequently became early settlers in Benton township; Paulding county, Ohio, and at present, live in Painesville, Ohio. Their fourth child, Edward, was reared in Paulding county and received a common school education. At the age of seventeen years, he went to Dayton, Ohio, where he enlisted in 1864, as a private in Company I, One Hundred and Thirty-first Ohio infantry, and was in the service for three months. He then remained at home until 1870, when he located at Monroeville, where he has since resided. He has for the greater part been engaged in the timber trade, but has also done more or less merchandising. He became postmaster at Monroeville and holds the position now. He has held several other positions of trust. He and his family are Catholics. In 1873 he wedded Elizabeth Jane, daughter of John D. and Mary Stephenson, and they have had the following children: John, Roger (deceased), Michael (deceased), and Lewis.

Alexander H. Anderson was born in Wood county, Ohio, May 25, 1844. His father, James McC. Anderson, was born in Butler county, Penn., September 3, 1819, and was married July 22, 1S41, in Ohio, to Lucinda Hockemberg, a native of Pennsylvania. To their marriage were born five sons and four daughters. The father's death occurred December 28, 1882, in Paulding county, Ohio, where the mother still resides. Alexander H. was born and reared on a farm, and educated in the country schools. When only eighteen years old he enlisted, in August, 1862, as a private in Compan}^ I, One Hundredth Ohio volunteer infantry. He participated in the siege of Knoxville, Tenn., Resaca, Ga., and at AUatoona, Ga., he lost his left arm, in consequence of which disabilit}' he was discharged June, 1864. He then returned to his home in Ohio and was there married September 19, 1S65, to Hannah Parker, who was born in Fort Wayne, February 11, 1844. In 1870 he located at Monroeville, Ind., where has since resided. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, holding a membership at Monroeville. He belongs to the G. A. R., William H. Link post, No. 301, of Monroeville.

Charles J. Breman, a merchant of Monroeville, was born in Sweden, July 22, 1843. He was reared and educated on a farm in his native countr)-, where he learned the shoemaker's trade. Emigrating to America in 187 1, he subsequently took up his trade at Decatur, Ind., and afterward located at Coldwater, Ohio, and there in 1875, he was united in marriage with Bernardina Hantaman, a native of Germany. Of their five children only one, Charles G., survives. In 1S83 Mr. Breman located at Monroeville, and embarked in general merchandise in which he has prospered, doing an annual business of about $6,000. He and family are members of the Roman Catholic church at Monroe- ville. Mr. Breman came to the United States a veiy poor man, but by means of his industr}- and sterling character he has become a prosperous and well respected citizen.

John D. Alligear, editor of the Monroeville Breeze, was born in Danville, Penn., July 24, 1854. His father was born in Jersey City, N. J., and his mother at Danville, Penn., and are both living. Grandmother Alligear is also living, aged ninety-eight 3'ears. Mr. Alligear was married to Melinda Wass, February 7, 1874, ^^~^^ ^^hey have two children: Dovie M., born January 26, 1876, and WilHam R., September 3, 1880. Mr. Alligear came with his parents to Allen county in July, 1855. He began to shift for himself at the age of twelve. Starting out as a bootblack, he became carriage-boy for Hugh McCulloch. Subsequently, he was a canal bo}', and finally began to learn the trade of a printer in 1869, working during the day at the case, and selling papers in the morning and evening, and sleeping during the night under the depot seats. He passed through all the privations incidental to a youth of poverty. Gaining the esteem and coniidence of his employers, he became foreman of the Gazette for several years, and then managed the Monroeville Democi-at for Mr. Foster. He took charge of the Monroeville Breeze in January, 1884, and has made it prosperous.

Chichester Holder, attorne}^ at law, was born in Marshall county, Ind., December 21, 1845. His father, Absalom P. Holder, born in Sullivan county, Ind., was married in La Porte county, to Mary Blivin, a native of New York. The}' had six children, who were reared on the farm, the father being a farmer by occupation. The fifth child, Chichester, attended school in the country until the civil war broke out, when, notwithstanding youthfulness, he volunteered, July 26, 1862, as a private in Company D, Eight3'-seventh Indiana infantry. Among some of the engagements in which he participated were: Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Resaca, Buzzard Roost, siege of Atlanta. He was in the march to the sea, and at the fall of Savannah, marched through the Carohnas to Richmond, Va., and thence to Washington, D. C, where he was discharged as an uncommissioned officer June 10, 1865. Returning to his home in Fulton county, in the fall of 1865 he engaged in carpentering and subsequently entered the employ of the P., Ft. W. & C. railroad as a carpenter and later was given charge of a corps of civil engineers in the emplo}' of that compan}^ Meanwhile he took up the stud}' of law, and became, in 1878, a member of the La Grange county bar, under Judge William A. Woods, now on the federal bench, and of the Noble county bar, and in Rome City opened a law office. He has also been admitted to practice in DeKalb and Allen counties. In the spring of 1888 he located ^it Monroeville, where he has since enjoyed a lucrative practice. He visited England several years ago on a business trip in the interest of the Sarah Jane West [nee Spriggs) estate. He is a self-made man, without early advantages, but from early youth the study and practice of law was uppermost in his mind. In politics, like his father, he is a staunch republican.

Noah Clem, above mentioned as one of the conspicuous earl}- settlers of Monroe township, was born in Shenandoah county, Va., September 27, 1809, son of David and Catharine (Walters) Clem, natives of that county, but of German parentage. The latter had six sons and seven daughters, Noah remained with his parents in Shenandoah county until he was married in 1832, to Mary M. Ridenour. In the fall of 1833 the young couple settled in Champaign countj-, Ohio, and in March, 184O, they made their home in Monroe township, and began clearing away the forest and here for fifty years he has contributed to the advancement of the county. He is an old line democrat and has taken an active part in poHtics. By his wife, who died September 27, 18S6, he had eleven children.

John D. Stephenson was born in Center county, Penn., November 29, 1816. His parents, Thomas and Eleanora (Dayhause) Stephenson, were American-born, the father being of Irish, and the mother of German, descent. To them were born thirteen children. John D. was reared and educated on a farm in his native county, and at the age of twenty-one years started out for himself, going to Seneca count}', Ohio. There he was married in 1841 to Mary Dornan, who was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, November 6, 1822, daughter of James and Sarah (Starkey) Dornan. The father was born in Ohio, of Irish descent; the mother was born in Virginia. They had eight children, of whom Mary is the second. Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Stephenson emigrated by wagon to Allen county, Ind., and in 1841 they settled on what is now known as the Ridge road in Monroe township. Mr. Stephenson had just before his marriage (in the fall of 1840) visited the place of settlement, had constructed a log cabin in the woods and sown four acres of wheat. The nearest neighbor on the east was one mile awa}-; at the west, eight miles. The Sandusky Indians were numerous and daily hundreds of them might be seen scouting and hunting through the forest. The Ridge road was the only public highway approaching Fort Wayne from Ohio, and the residence of Mr. Stephenson was a stopping place until the building of the railroad. Mr. and Mrs. Stephenson kept a hotel, accommodating hundreds of travelers. On one occasion over 100 wagons were camped with them. This was a station on the stage hne. By energy and perseverance Mr. Stephenson became a very prosperous and highly respected citizen, leaving at death an estate of 840 acres. In pohtics he was a democrat, and though not a member of any church, was friendly to church and school, and was a liberal and enterprising citizen. To Mr. and Mrs. Stephenson were born the following children: James T., John M., Eliza J., Joseph E. (deceased), Theodore L., Alpheus L. and Mary O. Mr. Stephenson died July 12, 1882. Mrs. Stephenson still survives and resides on the old homestead.

John Sheehan, one of the old settlers of Allen count}', was born in Wayne township, Columbiana count}', Ohio, June 9, 1S24, and is a son of Daniel and Ehzabeth (Hutchison) Sheehan. The father was born in Lancaster county, and the mother in Monongahela county, Penn.

Daniel was a son of William Sheehan, a native of Ireland, who emigrated to the United States. Daniel and Elizabeth Sheehan had tive sons and six daughters. With their then living children they removed to Indiana, and in 1S45 settled in AUen county, near the site of Monroeville on what is known as the Ridge road, and here the father died in 1S76, at the age of seventy-five years; and the mother died in 1S78 at the age of sevent3'-five. With wagons the familj^ drove to their place of settlement, pitched tents, and in the woods built a log hut for a habitation. In this manner was established the home of the family, then consisting of the father and mother and eight children. Of the eleven children, two had died in Ohio, and one, a daughter, now living at New Haven, had married. The father was a hard}^ pioneer, a sturdy farmer, an esteemed citizen and loved father. He was a zealous member of the Presbyterian church as was also his faithful wife, and they reared their family in the church. John Sheehan was reared on a farm, and received a fair education for his day. He has devoted his life to agriculture in which he has made a practical success. He began a poor man, and under adverse circumstances, but now owns a fertile and well-improved farm of forty acres, in Monroe township. In 1S51 he was married to Melissa, daughter of Elias and Anna Shaffer, early settlers of Allen count}-, and they have had five children: George (deceased), Sarah Jane (deceased), James Monroe (deceased), Louisa, Carohne and Anna. In 1865 the mother of these children was called away in death, and in 1866 Mr. Sheehan married Rebecca, daughter of John and Rebecca Cline, by whom he had seven children, three of whom survive, Eva, Edith Edna and Armina. Their mother died in 1888. Mr. Sheehan is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has lived a good and industrious life. He has held several positions of trust and for a number of years has acted as justice of the peace.

Abraham Brandeberry was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, July 15, 1816. His father Conrad, was born in Germany, a son of Conrad Brandeberry, who in an early daj^ emigrated from Germanv and settled in Carroll count}-, Ohio. Conrad married Susanna Cameron, a native of Scotland, daughter of Alexander Cameron, who in an early day, settled in Carroll county. This marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: Samuel, John, Jesse, Conrad, Mary Ann, Abraham, Elizabeth and Alexander, of whom only Abraham survives. The father was a farmer by occupation, and soon after his marriage he settled in Columbiana county, Ohio. The mother's death occurred in Carroll county, Ohio, and subsequently the father removed to Iowa, where he died. Abraham Brandeberry's life has been devoted to farming. When his mother died, he was not more than ten years old, but he remained with his father till he was twenty, and at his father's second marriage, he started out in life for himself. In 1841, he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of George and Anna Mary ( Harse ) Eagey, both natives of Pennsylvania and of German parentage. Mrs. Brandeberry was born in Washington county, Penn., May 7, 1820. Her marriage has resulted in the birth of George W. and Amelia A. In 1S49 Mr. Brandeberry and family came bj' wagon to Allen count}' and settled in Madison township, where the}' continued till 1861, when they located in Monroeville. He and wife are life-long members of the Methodist church.

Their son George W. Brandeberry was born in Carroll county, Ohio, January 30, 1844; coming to Allen county when a child, he was reared and educated on the farm, receiving a fair common school education. He has followed farming more or less, and at present, is engaged in farming, together with the manufacture of drain tile. In early hfe he clerked in Monroeville, where his home has continuously been. In the spring of 1884, he became the republican candidate for trustee of Monroe township, and notwithstanding a heavy democratic majority, was elected by a substantial majority, and served one term. March 21, 1872, he wedded Lida A., daughter of John P. and Julia (Wells) Nash. She was born in Starke county, Ohio, April 28, 1847. Their only child is Nora R., born May 29, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Brandeberry are leading spirits of their community, and enjoy a high social standing. She and daughter are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mr. Brandeberry, though not a member, is a warm friend.

James Reuille was born in France, March 25, 1845; and is a son of Joseph and Frances Reuille. The parents were born, reared, and married in France, and emigrated to Allen county, where the father has since followed farming for an occupation. James was born and reared on a farm. Though but a youth when the civil war broke out, in June, 1862, he enhsted as a private in Company C, Seventy-fourth Indiana volunteer infantry. His first engagement was at Mumfordsville, Ky. He participated in the battle of Chickamauga and others, was with Sherman on the march to the sea, and remained in the service until the close of the war, being mustered out June 16, 1865. Returning to Allen county, he was married December 3, 1865, to Mary Louya, a native of New York, whose parents were born in France, and settled early in this country. To this union there have been born seven children. Mr. and Mrs. Reuille are members of the Roman Catholic church at Monroeville, where they have resided since 1S85, prior to which date' Mr. Reuille was engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. Reuille is an energetic and progressive citizen.

Ephraim B. Ridenour was born in Monroe township, Allen county, Ind., November 14, 1858, one of twelve children of Lewis and Esther (Brenneman) Ridenour, of German descent. The father was born in Shenandoah county, Va., July 22, 1822, son of Adam and Mary Madeline (Munch) Ridenour. Lewis was reared and educated on a farm in his native county. In 1848 he wedded Esther, daughter of Christian and Anna (Shenk) Brenneman. She was born in Rockingham county, Va., May 11, 1822. Their children are: Anna E. (deceased), Adam P., Lydia M. (deceased), Ephriam B., Catherine and Sarah. In the spring of 1 85 1, the parents removed from Virginia to Indiana, and settled on section 33, Monroe township, Allen county. Here the father's death occurred November 20, 1S79. '^^^ mother still resides on the old homestead. The father was a hardy pioneer, energetic and persevering, an esteemed citizen and a faithful friend. Ephraim B. Ridenour, the only offspring of this old settler who resides in this county, is a farmer of Monroe township. In 1884 he wedded Catharine, the daughter of John J. and Anna (Cronin) Hayes, early settlers of Allen count}'. They have had two children, one of whom, Evaline G., survives.

John Griffith was born in Washington county, Penn., April 30, 1835. His parents, Daniel and Jane (Morris) Griffith, were born in Wales, and married in Pennsylvania, and had two children: John and Mary A. In 1839 ^h*^ mother died in Pennsylvania, and subsequently the father became a soldier in the Mexican war, and later, during the California gold fever, went there where it is supposed he died. x\t the death of the mother, John and his sister were taken by their maternal grandparents in Portage countj', Ohio. John received a fair common school education, and in early life taught school for several years in Ohio, Michigan, Illinois and Indiana. He first came to Indiana in 1S59. He taught his last school in 1S66-67. In 1862 he was united in marriage with Marvilla, daughter of Thomas and Susannah Jones. She was born in Harrison county, Ohio, March 21, 1S3S. This marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: Morris, Addie, William and Thomas. In 1864 Mr. Griffith enlisted in Company H, Ninety-first Indiana volunteers, and on December 3, 1864, was transferred to Company F, One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Indiana volunteer infantry, and was discharged August 31, 1865, at Greensboro, N. C, by reason of the close of war. In February, 1865, on account of ill health, he was lodged in the hospital at Washington, D. C, whence he was transferred to Indianapolis in the following June. Since his return to Allen county he has been engaged in farming. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and G. A. R., William H. Link post, No. 301.

Thomas Jones, father of Mrs. Griffith, was an early settler in the Maumee valley. He was born in Maryland, August i, 1814, son of William and Catharine (Appleton) Jones, natives of Maryland. The father was of Welsh, and the mother of Dutch, descent. They had twelve children, of whom Thomas was the third. April 12, 1S36, he wedded Susannah Edwards, who was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, June 6, 1820, daughter of John and Charlotte (Trumbo) Edwards. Her father was born in Baltimore of Scotch descent, and her mother was born near Pittsburgh, Penn., daughter of John Trumbo, of German origin, an earh' settler of western Pennsylvania. Thomas and Susannah Jones had eleven children, of whom the following survive: Marvilla, Rebecca E., Charlotte, Jasper W., Thomas S., Ahce and Seymour H. Soon after their marriage they came to Indiana, and in October, 1841, settled on section 9, of Monroe township, in the woods. They came by wagon, requiring fourteen days to make the trip from Harrison county, Ohio. Mr. Jones was a poor man, who by hard toil, soon began to grow prosperous. He was a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church. He was a man of reserved habits, thorough, progressive and enterprising. He was an useful citizen, a faithful friend and kind and loved father. He died -Ma}' 5, 1874, leaving his faithful wife who still survives and resides on the old homestead.

Charles Whittern, one of the oldest citizens of Monroe township, was born in Awling, Gloucestershire, England, April 4, 1814. His parents, George and Anna (Herbert) Whittern, were born and married in Gloucestershire, and had nine children. The father was a gardener and nurser3'man, and Charles was early trained in this vocation. His advantages for gaining an education in youth were poor. He remained under the parental roof until he reached the age of eighteen years, when he started out for himself, and had various employments up to 1S39, when he emigrated to America. In January, 1S35, he wedded Isabella L. Beauchamp, a native of Gloucestershire. This marriage resulted in the birth of eleven children, of whom two survive. The mother was called awa}' in death in September, 1848. Mr. Whittern and family set sail at Liverpool, purposing to land at New York, but unfortunately the vessel was wrecked off the coast of Long Island. Here the}' remained until the fall of 1841, when the}- removed to the vicinity of Cleveland, Ohio. In the spring of 1859, he setded near Monroeville, on a tract of land where he still resides. January 20, 1850, he married Lavinia (Nelson) McBride, who was born near Dublin, Ireland. Her father was of Scotch, and her mother of EngHsh, origin. She emigrated to America with her mother and brothers, and by her marriage became the mother of six children, of whom but two survive. Mr. Whittern settled on forest land near Moni-oeville, and has spent a long life devoted to farming, contributing much toward the improvement of the country. He owns a large tract of land in the county, and it is in good cultivation. He is a self-made man, has become prosperous, and by integrity and fidelity has gained a high position in the esteem of his fellow tovvnsmen. He has been friendly to churches, and is of the Episcopahan faith. In politics, he has since the organization of the party, been a republican.

John M. Tryon was born in Wayne county, Ohio, August 17, 1S40, a son of John and Lydia (Sadler) Tryon, he a native of New York, she of Canada. These parents were married in New York, and had eleven sons and two daughters. They were early settlers of Wayne county, Ohio, where they died. John M. was born and reared on a farm, and received a common school education and attended the Ohio Wesleyan university four months. August 11, 1862, he enlisted as a private in Company H, Sixteenth Ohio volunteer infantry ,,under the command of Captain A. S. McClure. He was with General Sherman in the tirst attack on Vicksburg, Miss., and at Chickasaw Bayou received a gunshot wound in the left hip. Here he was taken prisoner and placed in the Confederate hospital at Vicksburg. Subsequently, he was lodged at Jackson, then in Libby prison, and later was transferred to Richmond, Va., and here was exchanged May 30, 1863. He was then placed into the Union military hospital at AnnapoHs, where he remained until September 23,1863, when he was discharged by reason of disability, as a non-commissioned officer. He returned to Ohio, and in the fall of 1864 settled at Monroeville, soon securing a position with the P., F. W. & C. railway compan}', in whose employ he has since remained. Since 1S65 he has been station agent at Dixon, Ohio, where he now resides. September 22, 1864, he wedded Margaret Lawrence, by whom he had three children, all now deceased. The mother also after twenty-four years as his faithful companion, died September, 188S. Mr. Tryon was once a poor man with many obstacles before him to surmount, and much of his success was due to his worth}' wife, who was much loved and respected by all who knew her. Mr. Tryon, throughout life, has been a staunch republican. On one occasion he received the republican nomination as candidate for county treasurer of V^an Wert county, Ohio. He had a substantial democratic majorit}- against him which he reduced to nineteen votes, which may well be cited as evidence of his popularity. is a Knight Templar, and a member of the Grand Arm}- of the Republic.

The rich, heavily timbered region now known b\^ this name was not attacked by the pioneers until 1836. In that year one Browning erected a cabin on section 30, and spent his time in hunting, but soon departed. In the fall John Edwards entered a (quarter of section 26, and Andrew Meek a quarter of section 36. Both were from Carroll county, Ohio, where they returned and did -not live upon their land here until 1S37. Joh# Eagy, who had a family at Monmouth, Ind., began the work of clearing for Mr. Meek, and in 1S38 brought his family and settled on a forty-acre tract he entered' in 1S36. Until 1S39 ^^^^ iiimihes of these three men were the only inhabitants of the township. In the fall of the latter year they were joined by Charles Peckham and family, also from Carroll county, who contributed many of the first settlers here, John Mj^ers and Jesse Todd, Adam Robinson, and in the northern parts, David Patrick, William Hill, M. Holmes, William Runnolds, and Dawson, Tate and Clear. In this j-ear George Eagy put up the first hewn-log house. In the spring of the following year the settlers held their first election and Andrew Meek, Milton Holmes and Jesse Myers w"ere elected trustees; Martin W. Kemp, clerk; John Myers, treasurer; Adam Robinson, justice; Elias Hobbs, constable. Justice Robinson officiated at the marriage in the same j'ear of Jesse Myers to Polly Meek. In 1840, there came Jacob Marquardt, a worthy man, a native of Prussia, where he married Ann E. Carpenberger. They immigrated about 1S26, and Hved successively in Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio, until 1840, when they came from Springfield, Ohio, to section II, Madison township. He died in 1852, and his wife, in 1887. They left seven children : Louisa, Lena, Adam, Maria, Philip, Jacob and Margaret. Jabez Shaffer and family settled in 1841. This pioneer was born in Frederick count}-, Md., May 25, 1793, son of Andrew and Elizabeth Shaffer. Andrew Shaffer's father emigrated from Germany before the revolution, during which struggle the father sympathized with the British so strongly that he disowned his son Andrew, who fought under Gen. Wayne. The latter became a carpenter at Fredericksburg, and married Elizabeth Chambers. They settled near Canton, Ohio, and raised a family of seven children. Jabez was married in 1S20, to Susannah McPherson, bj- whom he had the following children : Amasa, Ehzabeth, John, Sarah, William, James, Jabez, Mary Ann, Lydia, Catherine, Albert and Ellen. In 1S39 he visited i^-llen county, entered 160 acres and traded his Ohio farm for 640 acres in Madison township, and settled in 1841. He died November 7, 1849, ^"<^ ^^^ ^'^i^^ ^^^^ November 10, 18S3. Theirson John Shaffer, served six years as count}- commissioner. In 1841 the first road was located, though in a somewhat irregular manner; theretofore the settlers were compelled to take a circuitous route through the woods to Monmouth, to reach mill or market.

Other settlers about this time were: John P. Neff, Charles Jones, Samuel Davis, John Gault and Samuel Stopher. Other well known early settlers were the Hobbs's, father and seven sons, all voters. These eight votes were sufficient at times to carry the township, and as the men invariably went barefooted, it was often discussed when the snow fell early in November, whether the Hobbs family would get to the polls. In 1849 the settlement was given a postoffice at the house of John Shaffer, who was postmaster. This was known as Massillon postotfice, but after 1856 it was removed to East Liberty. The village of Massillon was laid out by Adam Robinson in 185 1, and here the tirst store was established in that year by Wilson & Brown. The village flourished for a time, but is now a quiet hamlet, trade having removed to the neighboring towns of Monroeville and Hoagland. The plat of Centerville, a station on the Pittsburgh road, was made by Urias Mitten, proprietor, in January, 1852. The town has not since attained much importance.

In February, 1872, Stephen Emenhiser platted the village of Hoagland, a station on the G. R. & I. railroad, and an addition was made by Allen Devilbiss, in 1877. The name was given in honor of Pliny Hoagland. The first merchant was Samuel Steadman. The general merchants at present are Merriam & Son, J. L. Robinson and E. E. Jamison. D. L. Small is engaged in the manuf^ture of brick and tile and Houser Bros, have a saw-mill. James Engfish was the first postmaster and S. Merriam serves at present. J. L. Smith is the physician, H. McWherter, blacksmith. The neat church of the village is owned by the Baptists but is also used by the Methodists, Presbyterians and Church of God. The population in 1880 was ninety- nine.

The Madison Township Agricultural and Horticultural society was organized in the summer of 1878, and held a fair in September. The officers were N. P. Brown, president; John Shaffer, secretary: John H. Brown, treasurer. Christian Yonce was the next president. Forty acres of land was purchased near the village of Massillon, and good fairs were held for a few years, but the association was finally given up.